For years we have been leaving a color matched "Save Piece" for all kitchen countertop customers.  The save piece was left just in case something happened to the countertop and needed a color matched repair piece.  All too often a customer would damage the solid surface counter only to find there was nothing to make the repair.  Solid Surface material is by far the easiest material to fix, but without repair material it makes it extremely difficult.

We also make a trivet set.  Two six squares with radius top edge and a larger trivet ten by twelve.  Typically, these are given to the customer at the end of the job.  Makes a positive impression and the customers just love ‘em.

Although both these ideas are great, this is just the half of it.  We figure most customers lose their paperwork and forget your phone number.  A simple sticker can be placed on both the trivet set and the “Save Piece” to help them remember.

The stickers for the trivet set are made with your basic Avery Label (choose the size you like), computer and laser printer (not inkjet).  Include your company logo, contact information and don’t forget your website and email.  The stickers are not indestructible and will eventually wear away with too many dish washings but should still last for years.  If you are willing to spend a bit more money, you can have the stickers professionally printed.  The quality and the durability should make the labels last longer than the countertops.

I use a manufacturer sticker provided by Wilsonart for the “Save Piece”along with a custom printed company sticker.    If you can’t get the manufacturer sticker, make your own just like ones for the trivets.

Don’t let the opportunity to keep your name in front your customers.  You already sold, fabricated and installed a job for a satisfied customer, don’t let them forget it.  You never know when they’ll need another top or help with a repair.

Tips courtesy of Surface Authority:  Gordon Doull is the owner and operator of Surface Authority Inc. in Huntington Beach, California.  Surface Authority Inc. specializes in solid surface, granite, tile and quartz surfaces.  Doull can be reached at gordon@surfaceauthority.com   Visit his website:  www.surfaceauthority.com