Turning Your Phone Into a Marketing Machine: Easy Video Ideas for Contractors

By Rick Wedding •  Updated: 07/04/25 •  5 min read

Simple, trust-building video ideas you can film on-site to attract local customers and showcase your expertise.

If you’re a contractor, you’ve probably heard you need to post videos online to grow your business. But let’s face it—you’re busy running jobs, managing crews, and handling customers.

Here’s the good news: You don’t need fancy equipment or hours of editing to create powerful videos that build trust with homeowners. You already have what you need in your pocket—your phone.

In this guide, you’ll get easy video ideas you can film on-site to showcase your expertise and help homeowners see why you’re the contractor they should call first.

Why Video Matters for Contractors

Homeowners want to know:

Video helps you build that trust before they ever pick up the phone. It shows your personality, your process, and the quality of your work in a way photos alone can’t.

What You Need to Get Started

You don’t need fancy gear. You need:

That’s it. Done is better than perfect when it comes to building trust online.

Easy Video Ideas to Film On-Site

Here are video topics you can film during your day, on the job site, or even in your truck before heading home.

1️⃣ “Before and After” Project Walkthroughs

Show a quick “before” clip explaining what the problem was and follow up with an “after” clip of the finished project. Explain how you solved the problem in simple terms homeowners understand.

2️⃣ “Tip of the Week” Videos

Share a quick tip homeowners can use to maintain their home:

3️⃣ “Day in the Life” Clips

Film a 20-second clip showing you arriving at a job site, prepping tools, or a snippet of your crew working. This helps homeowners see you’re active, professional, and trustworthy.

4️⃣ Answer a Common Homeowner Question

Pick questions customers frequently ask and record a quick answer:

This positions you as a helpful expert in your community.

5️⃣ Customer Testimonial Videos

If a customer is happy with your work, ask if they’re comfortable recording a short video on their phone or yours saying what they liked about working with you. These can be powerful trust builders.

6️⃣ Tools and Materials Showcase

Film a short clip explaining why you use certain materials or tools. For example, “Why we use composite decking” or “Why we recommend a certain type of shingle.” This demonstrates your knowledge and care for quality work.

7️⃣ Seasonal Reminders

Share reminders that help homeowners prepare for the season:

How to Post Your Videos

Once you’ve filmed your video:

You don’t need to overthink it. Homeowners appreciate real, unpolished videos that showcase your expertise.

Bonus: How AI Can Help You with Video Captions

Not sure what to write in your caption? Use AI tools to draft a short, clear description for your video post. This saves time and ensures your message is clear and engaging.

Start Small, but Start Today

If you’ve been putting off video marketing because it feels complicated, or your uncomfortable with video, this is your sign to start. Your phone is all you need to begin turning your daily work into marketing that brings in new customers.

✅ Pick one idea from the list above.
✅ Film a 30-second clip today.
✅ Post it on your Facebook page with a simple caption.

Over time, these videos will build a library of trust-building content that helps homeowners choose you over the competition.

Ready to Build Trust and Grow Your Business?

You’re already doing great work—let’s make sure homeowners see it.

Check out The Local Creator Academy to get step-by-step guidance on using content and simple marketing to grow your business.

🏠 Whether you’re a remodeler, deck builder, HVAC tech, roofer, plumber, lawn care pro, or any building trade, consistent video content will help you become the trusted local expert homeowners call first.

Rick Wedding

Rick has been immersed in the building industry since 1987, working extensively across Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and now the broader Midwest. With a deep understanding of construction products and contractor workflows, Rick has honed his expertise over nearly four decades. In 2010, he pivoted toward the digital space—helping contractors and building professionals elevate their visibility online. By blending traditional industry insight with data-driven digital marketing strategies, Rick has empowered numerous businesses to reach new audiences and grow sustainably. Recently, he’s turned his attention to artificial intelligence for business—leveraging AI tools to streamline marketing, optimize product selection, and drive efficiency for clients in the construction and building products sector.