I’ve used bulk roll sorbo rubber for the last 15 years. Now I have a crew of guys that do all the squeegee work. As an employer, is there better value rubber to buy for the guys to use than the bulk sorbo? Some owner operators have different styles and likes, but as a business owner, I’m really concerned with the bottom line. If a different rubber lasts 100% longer, but costs only 50% more, then its worth it to me. Any advice on this?
I am kind of the opposite and buy what they like to use. Labor is more expensive than tools and I use what’s quick.
I only use Ettore rubbers personally along with a couple guys but have 2 employees that have always used Sorbo. I find it a hassle to have both but my preference is keeping them using what they prefer to work with.
We all have different techniques and preferences and working with what we know/like has advantages too.
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I have been using Black Diamond rubber for a while now with good results on residential,however I don’t like it in channel’s longer then 16 inches.
My guys don’t have a preference at this point. I just try to equip them with the best tools available, that are within budget. I agree that labor is more expensive than equipment though. Especially in California.
we love the pro rubber https://shopwindowcleaningresource.com/professional-squeegee-hard-rubber-12-pack.html
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Any rubber you buy will last longer than the sorbo roll.
The sorbo roll is a silicone blend rubber which isn’t really designed to fan with as it will wear twice as fast as a natural comound rubbers, it feels fantasic for a few hours then starts to loose its edge and starts to drag vs a natural rubber that will keep its edge much longer.
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Ettore. I just close my eyes and buy it. It’s all expensive. I use to give a buck, now it’s three. Cost of doing business.
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Price shopping is one way to control your costs.
Supplier matters, costs can vary by 20% on same item
Local supplier will eliminate shipping costs
Bulk order saves per unit costs to bundle or removes shipping costs
I have no problem in ordering my equipment from multiple suppliers. One gets me best pricing on wfp poles, another has better overall pricing on misc tools and sometimes there are just great deals or clearance items from any supplier.
A gross of Ettore rubber can range from $333. up to $420.
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Black Diamond makes rubber to fit Sorbo channels. It’s well priced and better than the Sorbo roll.
I have found Sorbo rubber to last a day at absolute best, usually only hours, mostly trashed by noon or have to change for every job
too soft or something is up, every time I go back and try it again over the years, same deal
Instead, Ettore Soren for Sorbo channels can last days and days consistently, depending on workload, good stuff
there’s savings right there for ya
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