Michael, That has been a problem for sometime. We have worked on jobs that have very specific dates for exclusive access and anyone else will be allowed access with your permission. However, this is not the norm rkmost of the time. We generally work with everyone, respectfully, but it seems that the less of a craftsman and more of an installer you encounter the more likely problems will arise.

Thanks Del and Scott, I see you both have dealt with this issue first hand. No, us flooring installers don't get much sympathy.

This is constantly a problem with new construction, but I've found that money is always a motivator.

We had one builder in the Twin Cities that was always behind schedule, dirty jobsites and too many people there on the same days.

We finally set some rules with them. We agree to installation dates at least a week ahead of time. If our crew has to move ladders, cords, boxes etc, sweep or scrape mud off the floors in excess etc, it is going to cost $50/man hour. With 3 installers, that's $150/hr!

We also imposed a $100 "rescheduling fee"; if they moved the install date without at least 24 hours notice, if we show up on our scheduled date and things are not ready, or if we are forced to get behind schedule or wait around for other contractors to get out of the way.

Once we imposed a few of these penalties, he quickly assigned a scheduling and clean up supervisor to each jobsite. Everyone knew when each other was supposed to be there. Everyone's cards w/phone #'s were posted on the garage wall and things have gone much smoother since.

Flooring guys always tend to get pushed around, blamed for delays and paid last. We have to make a stand and be respected for the quality of the finish work we do.

Thanks for reminding everyone,

take care

Kurt at Tile and Timber