Why Black Label Built Chooses W-2 Employees Over Subcontractors

At Black Label Built, we’re all about building amazing outdoor living spaces with an unbeatable customer experience. That level of quality, consistency and accountability doesn’t happen by accident – it’s built into the foundation of how we operate. One of the decisions we made to support this mission is to hire W-2 employees instead of subcontractors.

In this post we’ll break down why this matters – for our customers, our crews and the long term success of every project.

1. Consistency and Quality Control

Subcontracting can introduce variability in craftsmanship, communication and schedule adherence. With subcontractors every new job can feel like rolling the dice – different crews with different methods and priorities.

By hiring W-2 employees we create a stable, unified team that trains together, builds together and takes pride in delivering work that meets Black Label standards. We control the process from design through build-out which means fewer surprises, better quality and a smoother experience from start to finish.

2. Accountability and Ownership

W-2 employees represent the Black Label Built brand. They wear the badge every day, take ownership of their work and are invested in the outcome. They aren’t just hired help showing up for a paycheck – they’re part of a team that’s accountable to each other and to our clients.

Subcontractors may move from job to job with little connection to the company’s values or standards. But our employees know when they step onto a job site they’re responsible for protecting the Black Label reputation – and that matters.

3. Training, Safety and Culture

A big advantage of having W-2 employees is our ability to train and develop talent from within. We invest in ongoing education, safety protocols and skill development. We don’t just teach carpentry – we teach leadership, communication and what it means to do things the Black Label way.

We also foster a strong company culture that values teamwork, personal growth and integrity. That culture translates directly into better work, better client interactions and more enjoyable project experiences for everyone involved.

4. Schedule Reliability

Project delays happen when subcontractors are overbooked or juggling multiple jobs. Because we use dedicated crews, we can manage schedules more precisely and minimize delays. That means more accurate start and finish dates, faster project turnaround and fewer headaches for homeowners. Our clients know who’s coming to their home, when they’ll arrive and how long the project will take – because we control the schedule.

5. Long Term Investment in People and Craft

We’re not looking for quick wins. We’re building a business – and a team – that lasts. Our decision to hire W-2 employees reflects our belief in building careers not just completing projects.

When employees grow with us they take that pride and experience into every deck, pergola or patio cover they help build. The result? Projects that don’t just meet expectations – they exceed them.

Conclusion

Hiring W-2 employees isn’t the easy way – but at Black Label Built it’s the right way. It allows us to deliver a better product, a better process and a better experience for every homeowner we serve.

We’re proud to stand behind our people – because they’re the reason we can stand behind our work.