Insulate For Income

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My frame measures 6 feet long, 1-1/2 feet wide, and 5 feet high ... with a 5-foot-wide base support (see the photo on page 106). It's built to fit nicely into the bed of a pickup truck, where it's held in place with heavy-duty elastic snubbers which hook to the sides of the truck's bed. The windows are then tied down to the frame, and blankets (or used insulation bags) are placed between panes to prevent surface scratches.

STORM DOORS

Storm door installation won't be your biggest moneymaker, but it will be expected of you ... and such a service can often lead to window or insulation contracts. I simply measure carefully ... then buy good quality, self-storing units for about $50 apiece and collect $75 for installing each one according to the manufacturer's directions.

SECRETS OF SUCCESS

It's important that you don't give either your customer or your suppliers the impression that you're a high-powered businessman or -woman. Think of yourself as just a nice, friendly person trying to earn a few extra bucks. In fact, it's best to approach the entire home insulation business with the idea that you'll do just one job to see what it's like. Once you've earned some good money, you'll be inspired to take on more jobs ... and you'll soon be working full time!

After you've studied this article, visit some of your area's lumberyards or farm products stores. Ask if the retailers have blow-in insulation and a blowing machine. The store employee will be glad to show you how the machine works, while you lay the groundwork for establishing a helpful business relationship. Again, talk to as many such outlets as you can, and then—once you have some jobs—go to the supplier you like best.

Check your city and county regulations to learn what is required before you can set up shop as a fully-qualified installer of insulation in your area. You may need to be licensed and bonded, or to obtain a building permit. If so, however, don't pay any fees until after you've sold some jobs and are actually ready to earn some insulating income.

At first, simply contact your friends to let them know you're handling Insulation and storm windows. Buy five or ten dollars' worth of business cards, too. I've made sales simply by leaving my card with a person ... even though he or she might not call me until many days later. I've also gotten orders by stopping to ask for directions and then handing my informant a card. My sales presentation goes like this: "Hi! I handle storm windows and insulation. If you ever need either of 'em installed, give me a call." (Easy, isn't it?)

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