How much does a roofing or concrete contractor usually make?

Question

I want to learn a trade and then start my own business. How much can an independent roofing or concrete contractor make? Based on having only one or two crews...

Answer 1

Good Luck to you !! You are getting into very competitive fields which fluctuate greatly with the economy. You had better get great on - the- job training because you will need every bit of knowledge to succeed. Get a job with some contractor and learn the ropes. Then decide if you have the smarts to be the top dog . If you do, don't worry about the money, worry about doing the work well and earning a reputation as the best.

Answer 2

Concrete foundations and flatwork - if you get on with a good builder in the right area (Texas right now) you could easily make more than a doctor or lawyer - not with only two crews though.  With two crews of 3-5 people doing only flatwork(setup) and subcontracting the pour and finish with steady work, you could make a lot more than you think you can, and if you play your cards right eventually you have 8-10 crews doing foundations and then you will never think about having another job.  Being your own boss(if you have the right mentality is amazing).  My wife is in the medical field and I do concrete contracting and even if I had a doctorate in medical I would 99% sure stay with concrete and seeing the things that I do be created.  Doctors might have more stability but in construction when its good - its great and when its bad - it horrible, but if you save your money and not spend all of it when you get a huge influx you and your company will stay pretty even keel.  Good luck