Metal polishing workshop

Car and motorbike enthusiasts, garages and restorers, local manufacturers, architectural metalworkers, and homeowners with decorative or antique metalwork.

Fixed price per item or per batch, with higher prices for large, badly damaged or intricate pieces. Regular trade customers can provide repeat batch work.

• Steady hands and an eye for finish
• Knowing different metals and polishing compounds
• Working safely with machinery
• Quoting accurately and meeting deadlines

• Metal dust and fire risk: check what dust extraction, ventilation and fire precautions your unit needs
• Noise, eye and breathing protection: look up Health and Safety Executive guidance for polishing and buffing
• Planning and lease rules for running a workshop in your chosen unit, plus any noise limits set by your landlord or council
• Public liability insurance, and cover for customers' items while they are in your care
• Rotating machinery can cause serious injury, so get proper training before starting

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on your unit, the polishing machines you buy and the extraction and safety equipment you need. Checking your lease and insurance costs early helps you budget.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on the mix of trade and private work, your pricing and how many hours you work. The estimate assumes at least about 15 hours a week.

Check what dust extraction, ventilation and fire precautions your unit needs, and look up Health and Safety Executive guidance on polishing and buffing. Also check planning, lease and noise limits, insurance, and get proper machinery training before starting.