The average builder earns £26,000pa, supports Manchester United - and is called Paul.

This is according to a study of 500 builders, commissioned by aluminium bi-folding door manufacturer Origin, which sought to profile the daily lives of Britain’s handiest men.

Other results showed:

Andrew Halsall, managing director at Origin, said: “We all know that no two builders are the same, but wanted to show just how hard they work and the pressure they are under. The results show just how much of a shift goes into being a tradesman, and the amount they have to juggle over long days, and many of the findings go against some of the stereotypes.

“On top of the early starts, many are on their feet for over 10 hours a day carrying out physical activity, worrying about finances, employee retention and customer satisfaction, as well as keeping up with the latest building regulations, energy-efficient solutions and sustainable technologies.”

Mr Halsall added: “Builders have to deal with a mixture of worries, all of which take their toll. But most go that extra mile to deliver a project that exceeds the customer's expectations – we should all be championing UK builders.

“Unfortunately there is nothing we can do about the British weather, but suppliers should be helping builders meet their deadlines on time.

“As a result, we initiated a unique 'Your Lead Time, Not Ours' promise for our made-to-measure bi-fold and French doors, which eliminates the six to eight week industry lead times and puts the builder or customer in charge of the delivery schedule. We allow our trade customers to tell us when they want to take collection of their doors.”