Metal polishing workshop for trade customers

Metal fabricators, machine shops, furniture and architectural metal makers, restaurant and food equipment suppliers, auto and marine businesses, and private customers with larger jobs.

Price per piece or per batch, hourly rates for custom work, and repeat contracts with trade customers who send work regularly.

• Metal finishing techniques across different alloys
• Quoting and consistent quality control
• Building relationships with trade customers
• Basic workshop safety and equipment maintenance

• Check zoning, building and fire code requirements for metal dust and polishing in your unit, including extraction and ventilation
• Check workplace health and safety rules, and register with your provincial WCB or WSIB as required once you hire
• Check insurance for damage to customers' parts, equipment and premises
• Rent, equipment and consumables are fixed costs, so work volume from a few key customers is a risk
• Check rules for disposal of polishing waste and used compounds with your municipality or provincial environment ministry

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your unit, machines and extraction. Rent, equipment and consumables are fixed costs, so check them carefully before committing to a lease.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $18,000, depending on your work volume and customers. Relying on a few key customers is a risk, so building relationships with several trade customers is worthwhile.

Check zoning, building and fire code requirements for metal dust, including extraction and ventilation. Check workplace health and safety rules, and register with your provincial WCB or WSIB as required once you hire. Also check insurance and waste disposal rules.