They don’t build them like they used to, part 2

In my previous post, I explored how we interpret craftsmanship in older homes, but how do we define craftsmanship today. Do we define it by the materials we use? Do we define it by the tools or techniques we employ? I interact with a lot of homeowners who feel quality is missing from their home, and the home service industry in general. Below are three aspects of craftsmanship that I consider relevant regardless of the materials, tools, or techniques used.

A craftsman is a perpetual student - choosing an occupation in the building trades means continually developing the depth and breadth of your skills. It also requires discipline to keep abreast of current building materials and best practices.

A craftsman serves as a guide - There are so many options for construction materials and techniques it can be hard to discern what to use. A craftsman teaches their clients and guides them through decisions.

A craftsman looks out for their clients best interest - in the financial industry, this is called a fiduciary duty. Merriam-Webster says of a fiduciary relationship,

Fiduciary relationships often concern money, but the word fiduciary does not, in and of itself, suggest financial matters. Rather, fiduciary applies to any situation in which one person justifiably places confidence and trust in someone else and seeks that person's help or advice in some matter.

If a financial advisor receives $300,000 from a client to invest, and they carelessly lose $30,000, the advisor is seen as negligent and may face legal or professional discipline. If a client trusts a builder with a new home project that cost $300,000, and the builder carelessly constructs the drainage details around the foundation it probably will not keep the basement dry. This could easily lead to a wet basement and mold problems that require $30,000 to repair. Is the builder any less responsible for their clients welfare in this situation?

Where do we go from here? - As home service providers, let’s build businesses that openly discuss and talk about these qualities with employees. Attend a trade show like JLC Live to learn about new materials and processes. Subscribe to a magazine that teaches current best practices. Create a culture of craftsmanship within your business, and the whole industry will benefit.