Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Rutherford.
Daniel, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started in 1981 working as an apprentice (more commonly known as a “helper” in the tile industry) for a company located in Palm Desert, Ca. I learned from older, more experienced tile setters and quickly moved up to journeyman tile setter. I also studied books and manuals on tile setting to gain more knowledge. By 1983 I was ready to get my contractor’s license and start out on my own. I got my license in March of 1983 and started advertising in local publications. At that time there was no internet, of course, so everything was done in print advertising. It worked out very well and soon I was gaining more and more customers from referrals as well as from the advertising. I also got many referrals from the local tile store where I did business.
Fast forward to today and I have had many customers for whom I did jobs for 15 or 20 years ago who still call me when they need some tile work done. I try to focus on quality and attention to detail. I use tried and true methods of installing tile, the old school method of wire lath and a cement based mortar bed. This method requires the most skill but produces the best, longest lasting results.
Has it been a smooth road?
Some of the challenges of being self-employed as a tile contractor are that you are more vulnerable to economic conditions. When there are recessions and work becomes very scarce it is a real challenge to even survive. There are no unemployment benefits for self-employed people so if you’re out of work for several weeks or months you are not getting any income. Pretty scary.
During the recession of the early 90’s I had to find work with some bigger companies, usually just for short periods like a week or two just to get by.
Another challenge of being self-employed is that you have to provide your own retirement and healthcare insurance benefits. I was able to afford healthcare but saving for retirement proved to be too much.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Daniel Rutherford, Ceramic Tile Contractor – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I specialize in residential tile installation. I do a lot of bathroom remodels, kitchen backsplashes, fireplaces, floors, and outdoor decks. I used to do a lot of kitchen countertops many years ago but not too many these days as solid surface counters have become popular.
I guess what I’m most proud of is having a reputation for quality, reliability, and honesty. This is borne out by the fact that I’ve had many repeat customers, many that I’ve worked for 25 years or more.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
The best thing about being in L.A. is the diversity of people and cultures here. You can enjoy practically any type of cuisine, and meet people from all over the world. Another great thing about L.A. is the climate.
The thing I least like about L.A. is the poor public transportation system. Having visited many other cities around the world (London, Paris, Tokyo) I would say that our public transportation system ranks pretty low compared to other large cities. That makes for terribly congested freeways and sometimes nightmarish traffic jams.
Contact Info:
- Website: danrutherfordtile.com
- Phone: 818-841-0467
- Email: [email protected]
- Yelp: Daniel Rutherford
- Other: BBB
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
