Repairing Cracked Screens
Our Side Hustles Breakdown
This task involves fixing the cracked screens of smartphones, tablets, or other devices. We recommend repairing cracked screens as a side hustle for those with some technical skills in the field. If not, there is a learning curve that involves practical training. It also requires an initial investment in tools and materials.
Cons
- Initial Investment Required: An initial investment is required for tools and materials needed for screen repair.
- Learning Curve: If you are not already skilled in screen repair, there is a learning curve to become proficient.
- Risk of Further Damage: There is always a risk of causing further damage to the device while repairing the screen.
Pros
- High Demand: With the increasing number of smartphones and tablets, there is a high demand for screen repair services.
- Profitable: Repairing cracked screens can be a profitable side hustle, potentially earning a good income.
- Skill Development: This side hustle allows you to develop and improve your technical skills.
Are you good at repairing cracked screens? If so, then you might be missing your chance to turn this skill into a lucrative side hustle!
Luckily for you, this quick guide will help you understand how to turn this nifty skill into profit and its pros and cons.
An Overview of Repairing Cracked Screens: A Primer
Let’s start this guide by asking one thing: Look around and count how many screens are around you right now.
If we take a wild guess, it’ll be at least one screen—otherwise, you won’t be reading this!
Repairing cracked screens essentially gives tablets, TVs, cell phones, and other gadgets a new chance at functioning.
It all starts with diagnosing and assessing the damage extent, then disassembling and changing or repairing what you can.
It usually requires minimal customer interaction save for providing advice to prevent future accidents and post-repair care. The process is meticulous and demands precision and a keen eye for detail.
How Much Can Repairing Cracked Screens Earn You?
The earrings you get from repairing cracked screens can vary according to several factors. A rough estimate could put you around the $25–$100 margin for the common smartphone and gadget models.
As you gain experience and start working on high-end electronic devices or more complex repairs, you might charge $100 or more per job.
Still, many factors affect this income, starting with the geographical location. In urban or densely populated spots, you may find more customers but also more competition.
If you worked in a rural area, you might be one of their specialists, allowing you to charge more but getting fewer customers.
Another problem with income here is overhead costs; you’ll need to factor in the prices for replacement parts, tools, and other expenses.
How Much Does it Cost to Start a Side Hustle Repairing Cracked Screens?
You’ll need an initial investment if you want to start a side hustle repairing cracked screens, so let’s break down the main startup costs.
While online courses are always there to help, consider going to a hands-on workshop or seminar. This could help you stand out from the crowd and doesn’t have to cost more than $750.
Of course, To fix screens, you need precision screwdrivers, tweezers, maybe a heat gun, and more. A high-quality toolkit can cost you around $75 to $250+.
Also, you can’t start fixing screens if you don’t have ready parts at hand! Determining the costs here is difficult, as it varies from model to gadget, but you’ll be looking at $1000–$1500 for a start.
Finally, while you can do this wherever at home, it’s best to have a dedicated workspace with anti-static mats around. You’ll need $150–$650 to prepare such a workbench.
Where Can You Find Gigs Repairing Cracked Screens?
Fixing screens isn’t the same as writing a blog or planning a marketing campaign. That’s to say, using platforms such as Fiverr and Upwork becomes significantly tedious with such skill. Thankfully, you can still find work by following either route below:
Where to Independently Find Gigs Repairing Cracked Screens
The first and easiest step you could take to land gigs is to let family and friends know about your services. Personal referrals are usually trustworthy and can be a good starting point for the business.
Also, walk to your community center and look for the bulletin board. Though we live in a digital world, you’d be surprised how much this trick could help.
All you need for this is an attractive flier that can grab attention and clearly communicate your services and pricing. After that, watch out for the flier and constantly replace it when it gets blown or covered.
Of course, respect the community guidelines and ensure you have all the required permissions.
Gig Economy Companies That Offer Gigs Repairing Cracked Screens
Unlike other platforms, Nextdoor is special because it’s designed to operate within your local location—similar to Craigslist, which you can also use. It can help the people in your neighborhood find your services and share them if they want.
The first step you’ve got to do is set up a professional profile that advertises your services, then join the local groups. Keep your eyes out for discussions and offer deals to boost interest in you!
Our last trick here is using social media to your advantage. Around 60% of the population uses one form or another of social media to browse. It could be Twitter, Instagram, Facebook Marketplace, or another.
You can take advantage of this fact by creating a profile on one or more of these platforms and advertising cell phone repairs, among other services.
Why You Should Consider Repairing Cracked Screens As a Side Hustle
There are many advantages to starting a career doing phone screen repairs or others, including the following:
- High Demand: As mentioned, screens are almost everywhere in the streets and in every household. You’ll receive a new client with every person dropping his phone or a toddler kicking it!
- Potential for Growth: Though this might start as a side hustle, the ever-increasing number of screens and clients can help you develop into being your boss for good.
- Profitable Margins: After covering the initial costs of tools, training, and parts, the profit margins can be lucrative. Though replacement parts could still be costly, your bulk earnings come from labor and experience.
Problems With Repairing Cracked Screens
As with any other business ideas, repairing cracked screens as a side hustle has its drawbacks, including:
- Complex Modern Devices: As technology advances, devices worldwide become more intricate. Newer models come with touch sensors and other components placed in one unit, making repairs challenging.
- Risk Of Further Damage: Even if the device isn’t as complex as it could be, there’s always a risk of causing additional damage during the repair process.
- Price Competition: With screens on every corner, the market has many fierce players. Sadly, this can make it more challenging for you to maintain a competitive edge without compromising on either quality or margins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finally, here are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding repairing cracked screens as a side hustle:
Can You Fix a Cracked Screen Without Replacing It?
Fixing a cracked screen without replacing it depends on the severity of the crack and the device type.
In some cases, you could help with some improvements, but it’s essential to understand they’re temporary fixes.
Using screen protectors, for example, or polishing the cracks can only help so much. Eventually, the screen needs to be replaced entirely.
What Happens if You Don’t Fix a Cracked Screen?
Since most devices today depend on screen-touch for functionality, leaving a cracked screen will negatively affect that.
Another problem could be the crack spreading throughout the device and damaging what’s left of the screen.
There’s also a risk of internal damage, as the device is now more susceptible to dust, water, and debris.
