We have the pleasure of featuring Ryan Thompson of Right Way Building, as he introduces himself and discusses his career, and insights for aspiring contractors. He's a great example of hard work and determination for anyone who wants to be more successful in their career.
Doman: What is the history of your company?
Ryan Thompson: Back in 2001, I was accepted into an exclusive construction co-op class through my High school, once I finished school, I immediately started working in the field. First as a labourer, and soon after became a framing carpenter. After 4 years of learning the trade, I started my first framing company at the ripe age of 21. After years of framing residential homes for large developers, I decided take on the roll of general contractor and get into more custom renovation work. Things like additions, interior and exterior renovations, decks, fences, etc. I have grown that model today into a few hourly employees, a handful of sub trades and a list of great clientele. Starting as a rough carpenter framer, I quickly grew my skill set to offer a wide range of construction services. Basically from the hole in the ground to the shingles on the roof and everything in-between. We do use licensed and certified electricians and plumbers for those aspects of the job.
"Starting as a rough carpenter framer, I quickly grew my skill set to offer a wide range of construction services."
What services do you offer?
We offer building solutions from concept to reality using our own in house design team. We pride ourselves on attention to detail from start to finish.
Can you tell us about one of your favourite projects and why?
One of my all time faves would have to be one of the latest deck builds we did using MicroPro® Sienna Treated Wood. We designed and built a custom deck for some very special clients, incorporating some privacy shutters and even a hidden hatch for access to the homes crawl space. We really enjoy these types of projects for the creative aspects involved. Working with the client and using the right products to capture the clients vision is extremely important for us.
Why do you work with . . . ?
MicroPro® is a great option because it’s not only cost effective, but it looks great and it’s also eco-friendly, which is very important to us and our clients.
What warranty do you offer on your work or the products?
We offer a 10-year warranty on all labour/installation. We do not currently offer a warranty on products.
How do you approach each project?
We listen to what the customer wants first and then make suggestions based on their style preference and overall vision of the project.
"We pride ourselves on attention to detail from start to finish."
What trends do see in the future for your industry?
We are really seeing a trend towards outdoor living spaces lately. People are realizing the benefits of creating outdoor living spaces not only in value, but their own enjoyment.
What’s your favourite accessory product?
I really like working with the privacy shutters for outdoor projects. It's a great way to block out the sun when needed… or those nosy neighbours - lol.
Is there a product you really want to try?
I really would like to get into incorporating outdoor lighting in our projects.
How do you find out about new products?
Social media, talking and networking with other contractors and Google.
Contractors often receive swag from manufacturers and suppliers. What’s your favourite swag?
We love all types of swag, from merch to tools and new products to test.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
"It’s not how many nails you use, it’s how you use them."
What social media channels do you use?
Instagram: Right Way Building
Facebook: Right Way Building
YouTube: Right Way Building
LinkedIn: Right Way Building
Doman would like to thank Ryan Thompson for taking the time to share his projects and insights with us. In the meantime, stayed tuned for our next Contractor's Corner. Follow us on social to find out when our next feature will be posted. If you're a contractor and want to be featured in an upcoming Contractor’s Corner blog post, message us and we’ll send you the details. If you’d like to share your photos of your latest project with us on Instagram, tag us @canwelbuildingmaterials with #canwelpros.