Foot bridge idea- pro or con?

Question

I have some free time and thought that I would devote some of it to building bridges ,as a side job ,that are sturdy to drive a lawn tractor over.
I have already built 2 for myself, that span over a 5 ft. deep gulch.
I drive my 12 Hp. Cub Cadet tractor over them pulling loads of dirt constantly- so it has proven to be a sturdy made structure. They are both about 8 years old and withstood the elements as well.

My question is- would it be a good idea to market this product fully assembled? Allowing people to be able to use property that they may otherwise not. length-20-25Ft.- $1000.00

I am planning to situate and construct the bridge at each given location-no tranporting of whole bridges-too heavy.

My thought for compensation would also be in the payment of 1/3 deposit before job starts-1/3 half way through the job-and1/3 upon completion.
I would also have the party having the bridge put on their property sign a waiver stating that I would not be responsible for any bodily injury that occurs once the bridge during construction and after built.

Answer 1

I would market the idea first before you make bridges you cant sell. Offer to let people come and see yours that way they know exactly what they are getting. Put an ad in you local paper or on craigslist and see what kind of response you get.

Answer 2

You don't mention your occupation. It doesn't really matter. My suggestion is:

1. Hire an engineer to do the structural design for you, to lessen your liability and to provide you with a maximum load rating.

2. Having them assembled is great except for the transportation which can prove to be a deal breaker. I would go with a kit, with everything included: wood, bolts, maybe even a finishing kit and most important a well thought out and laid out assembly plan with phone in customer support. Eventually, you might even consider making a cover kit available to make it more attractive. And you could add an assembly and installation service for additional charge.

3. $1000 is not much money for a business of this type considering what your expenses will be. I assume you are thinking local sales and a one person company.

Answer 3

Transporting something 20-25ft long could be a hassle.

Most people before they buy something ask if it will fit in a truck.

I would suggest you sell self assembly kits (with assembled modules that are small enough to be easily transported) with plans as well as selling fully assembled bridges.

Answer 4

Are you sure all gullys are the same?