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Deck build estimate example
Decks are the job customers price-shop hardest. The frame spec is what separates your number from the cheap one.
"build 12x16 deck attached to house, pressure treated frame 2x8 joists 16 oc, concrete footings, ledger flashed, composite decking customer picks color, 36in composite rail, 4 steps, permit"
Example figures for a typical deck build job. Not a quote. Every line on the estimate came from the notes above. Nothing was added.
What to spell out on a deck build bid
- Size, and attached or freestanding.
- Framing lumber, joist spacing, footings, and the ledger flashing.
- Decking and rail by product line, and who picks the color.
- Permit, and that attached decks almost always need one.
A deck over a certain height, or one attached to the house, often needs a permit. A deposit for special-order material is normal.
The parts of this estimate
- Scope of work. 5 lines, one thing each, in the order the work happens. What is not included is on the list too.
- One price. $8,900. Not a formula, not a range. The scope explains the number.
- Timeline. 4 days. Including dry time, cure time, or permit time, so the customer plans around it.
- Payment terms. 50% upfront, 50% on completion. The $4,450 deposit is paid by card when they sign.
- Warranty. 2 years on workmanship, manufacturer warranty on decking.
- A way to accept. The customer types their name and signs with a finger on their phone. Legally binding under the E-SIGN Act, and recorded with the date, time, and the exact estimate they agreed to.
Questions carpenters ask about this bid
Should I quote wood and composite?
Two packages on one bid. The customer sees both totals and picks. Most pick composite when the difference is in front of them.
Deposit?
Half. Composite and rail are special order.
Is this a real quote?
No. The numbers are example figures for a typical job so you can see how a complete estimate reads. Your price is yours.
Can my customer sign this on their phone?
Yes. An estimate sent from BidWriter Pro opens as a link. The customer reads it, types their name, signs with a finger, and pays the deposit by card. You get an alert when they open it and when they sign.
Write your own deck build estimate
Type the job the way you would text it. It comes out like the one above, in about five seconds. No account needed.
30 days free, then $29 a month. No card to start. Carpentry estimate template · BidWriter Pro for carpenters
More carpentry estimate examples
- Pergola estimate example, $4,600, 3 days
- Trim and doors estimate example, $4,400, 3 days
- Built-in shelving estimate example, $5,800, 5 days
Guides: what to include in an estimate · how to price a job · how to follow up · how much deposit to ask for · the warranty line
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