We were lucky to catch up with Clayton Felman recently and have shared our conversation below.

Clayton, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start with what makes profitability in your industry a challenge – what would you say is the biggest challenge?

One of the biggest challenges to profitability in contracting is the unpredictable nature of the work. Unexpected issues can arise at any time, whether it’s hidden damage in a building or a sudden increase in the cost of materials. I remember one project where we discovered significant structural problems that hadn’t been identified during the initial inspection. Fixing these problems was essential, but it also meant that the budget and schedule were stretched. Balancing the need to do the job right with the financial realities is a constant challenge in this industry.

Clayton, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Clayton Felman, the founder and general contracting of Clayton Contracting. My journey into the world of contracting began in 2005, with a keen interest in how things work – particularly electrical systems. This curiosity led me to pursue a technical career in the electrical industry, where I gained a solid foundation in electrical work, wiring and system design.

In 2018, I decided to take the plunge and set up Clayton Contracting. My goal was simple: to create a company that not only excels in construction, but also brings a high level of expertise to electrical work – an essential component of any build. We specialised in custom-built homes, renovations and advanced electrical installations. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to doing things right the first time, ensuring that every project we undertake is safe, functional and built to last.

Our customers come to us with a variety of needs, from building their dream home to upgrading outdated electrical systems. One of the biggest challenges we face is integrating modern electrical solutions into both new and existing structures. We’ve undertaken projects where we’ve upgraded old knob-and-tube wiring to modern standards, ensuring both the safety and efficiency of the home. In commercial environments, we’ve designed and installed electrical systems that support cutting-edge technologies and promote energy-efficient operations.

What really sets us apart is our ability to combine technical knowledge with practical construction skills. We’re not just contractors; we’re problem solvers who understand the intricacies of electrical systems and how they integrate seamlessly with the rest of the building process. This approach enables us to consistently deliver results that exceed our clients’ expectations.

One of the things I’m most proud of is our reputation for quality and reliability. A significant proportion of our business comes from word of mouth, which to me is the greatest endorsement of what we do. When clients recommend us to their friends and family, it’s a testament to the trust we’ve earned and the high standards we maintain.

What we want you to know…

At Clayton Contracting, we don’t just build structures; we create safe, functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces that stand the test of time. Our expertise in electrical systems sets us apart from other contractors and allows us to tackle even the most challenging projects with confidence.
If you’re looking for a contractor who combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to quality, Clayton Contracting can help. We believe in doing things right the first time and are committed to delivering results you’ll be proud of for years to come.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One lesson I had to unlearn was the idea that working harder always leads to better results. Early in my career, I believed that putting in long hours and pushing myself to the limit would automatically lead to success. I was convinced that the more I did, the more I would achieve.

The back story is that when I first started Clayton Contracting, I worked non-stop – late nights, weekends, you name it. I took on every task myself, thinking that if I just worked harder, the business would flourish. But as the business grew, I began to see the cracks in that attitude. My health was suffering, and despite all the hours I was putting in, the business wasn’t running as efficiently as I’d hoped. I was stretched too thin and it became clear that my approach was unsustainable.

The turning point came when I missed an important family event because I was tied up with work. It hit me hard that I was sacrificing important aspects of my life and the quality of my work was starting to slip because I was trying to do everything myself. That’s when I realised that working smarter, not harder, was the key to real success.

I had to unlearn the notion that working relentlessly equated to better results and instead focus on building a strong team, delegating tasks and managing my time more effectively. In doing so, I was not only able to grow the business more sustainably, but also create a healthier work-life balance. This lesson reshaped the way I approached both my business and personal life, teaching me that success isn’t just about how hard you work, but how strategically you work.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

When I first decided to set up Clayton Contracting, I knew that securing the initial capital would be one of the biggest hurdles. I didn’t come from a wealthy background, so there was no safety net or large inheritance to fall back on. What I did have was a decade of experience in the electrical and construction industries, a solid reputation for quality work and a strong desire to build something of my own.

The first step was to save every penny I could. I lived frugally for years before starting the business. I put aside as much as I could from each pay cheque and worked extra jobs when I could to add to my savings. It wasn’t easy, but I was determined to make my dream a reality.

Next, I went to the bank to apply for a small business loan. I had to present a solid business plan, which I spent countless hours refining. The plan detailed everything from my target market to projected profits and how I would use the loan. It was nerve-wracking, but I walked away from that meeting with the loan I needed to cover initial costs – like buying tools, a reliable work truck and some initial marketing.

I also drew on my network of industry contacts. I reached out to a few trusted colleagues and mentors who believed in my vision. Some were willing to offer advice, while others provided small loans with flexible repayment terms. This was crucial because it gave me the breathing space to focus on getting the business off the ground without the immediate pressure of repaying a large sum of money.

Finally, in those early days, I reinvested every bit of profit back into the business. Instead of taking a salary, I put the money into better equipment, hiring skilled workers and expanding our services. It was a slow and steady approach, but it allowed Clayton Contracting to grow without taking on too much debt.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.claytoncontracting.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clayton_contracting/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/claytoncontractor
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clayton-general-contracting
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/clayton-contracting-pittsburgh-2
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/clayton_contracting/

Image Credits

1. Logo Clayton Contracting
2. Website Launch
3-4. Before and After – Attick
5-6 Before and After- Total Renovation
7. Clayton Contracting Team: Clayton Felman-Owner & General Contracting, Mike Koebler -General Manager, Chris Chough- Project Coordinator