Business Central September 2021

98 | Quality all the way for Sam and team T T Sue Russell European oak flooring adds some wow factor. Edridge Construction BUILDING A fter working for another builder for about 10 years Sam Edridge knew it was the right time to go out on his own and make his own mark. In 2016, he formed Edridge Construction, based in Greytown, and for the past five years he’s maintained a tight-knit team of four staff. Sam joins them on the tools as well as setting aside necessary time to run the business. It’s a balance he enjoys. “I really love being on the tools but because it’s such a busy time, it’s important to stay on top of the paperwork too. Given our proximity to Wellington, people are flocking to the Wair - arapa for the life-style the region offers and the building industry is booming.” And as a local, Sam appreciates the support he has received since starting his company. His father was a well known architect in the area so Sam was able to spring-board off this, in terms of getting contacts in the early days. Concentrating only on residential builds, which are often quite complex in nature, has given Sam his niche. “From my earlier building years I was used to dealing with quite tricky and high-end builds so I’ve continued to focus on this end of the market. It is challenging work but im- mensely satisfying.” Demand for quality builders is at an all- time-high and Sam says he’s got work booked up well into the future. “Because people know there’s a shortage of quality builders, they tend to get in touch with me really early on and are prepared to wait. This also means that I am quite often involved with the architect during the design process which clients tend to appreciate .” Given the number of builders in the team, Sam prefers to limit projects on the go at any one time to just a couple. A substantial 370sqm home in Governors Green as recently been completed. Sam says the home is outstanding for lots of reasons. “It’s in a rural subdivision with great views towards the hills. The home is clad using recy- cled Australian hardwoods such as iron bark, tallow wood and spotted gum. Along with the steep gable roofs, this gives the house a real rustic barn feel.” Designed with wings separating guest ac- commodation from the owners’ spaces, Sam describes the house as very well designed, offering lots of areas to live in. Recycled hardwoods have been used for decking and pergolas while inside European oak flooring and doors will add some wow factor inside. It is also exceptionally well insulated, with the exterior completely sheathed in a 30mm thick layer of kooltherm and the interior to a very high spec. Sam says the build has gone along really smoothly, despite the challenges of materials being supplied at this time. “My suppliers at ITM have been great keep- ing me updated with product lead-in times but you certainly need to be thinking 2-3 months ahead now rather than 2-3 weeks.” With strong demand tracking ahead for years to come, Sam is at the point of taking on another apprentice. He believes the BCITO apprenticeship pathway offers those new to the industry a sound learning structure, with a good balance between support from the BCITO supervisor and on the job training provided by himself and his other experienced builders. “The most important thing, given we’re a small building company, is that I find the right fit when it comes to employing staff. “You get a feel for a person and their character quite quickly and I’ve been very fortunate with the team I have around me.” Proud to be associated with Edridge Construction 425 Queen St, PO Box 2113, Masterton P 06 377 2541 E of ce@lgeconsulting.co.nz www.lgeconsulting.co.nz Structural design for residential and commercial projects New builds and alterations Seismic assessments and strengthening of existing buildings Fallprotect is proud to support Edridge Construction DEDICATED • DEPENDABLE • INNOVATIVE