Free decks proposal template
A proposal needs six parts. This template has all six, filled in with a sample decks job so you can see how it reads. Download it, or write your own from a few typed notes.
What is in it
Typed by the deck builder: "16x20 composite deck 3 ft off grade, pt frame on concrete footings, composite decking grey, black aluminum railing, 4 ft stairs, permit and inspection incl, tear out old deck and haul"
- 16x20 composite deck, 3 feet off grade.
- Pressure-treated frame on concrete footings.
- Grey composite decking, black aluminum railing.
- 4-foot stairs.
- Permit and inspection included.
- Tear out and haul the old deck.
Warranty: 5 years on workmanship, manufacturer warranty on composite
Deposit at signing: $5,670
Signature block: typed name, date, and the E-SIGN Act line.
Or fill it in from your notes
Type the job the way you would text it. It comes out in this format in about five seconds. No account needed.
30 days free, then $29 a month. No card to start.
Finished decks estimates to copy from
- Composite deck build estimate example, $18,900, 6 working days, after permit
- Deck resurface estimate example, $7,200, 3 days
- Railing replacement estimate example, $4,300, 2 days
How to use it
Replace the company block with yours, keep the structure, and write the scope as a short list of what you will do, one item per line. Put one total price on it. Add a timeline and payment terms every time. Date it and give it an expiry, usually 30 days.
The parts most deck builders leave out
- Payment terms. "30% upfront, 40% at framing, 30% on completion" on the proposal means it is never a conversation at the end of the job.
- A valid-through date. Prices move. Without one, an old bid can be accepted months later.
- A way to accept on the spot. A printed PDF has to be signed, scanned, and emailed back, and plenty of customers put that off. A link they can tap and type their name on takes a minute.
What to fill in on a decks proposal
- Size, height, and material for decking, framing, and railing
- Footings and whether a permit and inspection are included
- Stairs, railing height, and lighting
- What happens to the old deck and the ground under the new one
Composite versus wood changes the price by thousands. Put both as packages on one bid when the customer is undecided, and say what the railing is.
Questions about decks estimates
What should a contractor estimate include?
Six parts: who it is from and who it is for, the scope of work as a short list, one total price, a timeline, payment terms with any deposit, and a way for the customer to accept. A warranty line and a valid-through date keep it from being argued over later.
Is an estimate legally binding?
Once the customer accepts it in writing, yes, for the scope and price on it. A typed name and e-signature on a phone counts under the E-SIGN Act. A number texted back and forth is much harder to hold anyone to.
Can I use this template as is?
Yes. Download the PDF, replace the company block with yours, and keep the structure. Or type your own job below and it is laid out for you in a few seconds.
Can I give a wood price and a composite price?
Yes. Two packages on one estimate. The customer picks one and signs it.
Can I add a photo of the plan?
Yes. A sketch or a photo of the space goes on the estimate so the customer signs the same deck you are building.
Or skip the template
BidWriter Pro turns notes like "16x20 composite deck 3 ft off grade, pt frame on concrete footings, composite decking grey, black aluminum railing, 4 ft stairs, permit and inspection incl, tear out old deck and haul" into this proposal, sends it by text or email, collects the deposit by card when the customer accepts, and follows up if they go quiet. Free for 30 days, no card. See how it works for deck builders or open the sample your customer would see.
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