Estimate Check

[Neil_Asheville 114]

Good morning.

As we get more projects completed and in the portfolio, estimates certainly do come a bit easier. I would say after thousands and not hundreds of projects is about the time when we'll be completely confident in time and material figuring. We'll get there!

Here's one I'd appreciate feedback on. The attached pdf will launch a slideshow. ALT pauses show, left/right mouse click advances or backsup, ESC will take you back to viewing it in Reader pane. I already have a figure in mind for labor + 7gal WoodTux. PDF is attached. This will be me plus one helper. Some quick points on the project:

- 4 month old new construction PT pine

- 960 total sqftage decking to restore

- front steps covered with tree/berry stains

- front steps handrail has been builder stained with unknown semi-trans, i'm thinking of priming and painting to match red front door.

- client wants architectual trim treated also (see pic, approx 80 linear feet)

- client wants 80 linear feet of split rail fence treated (see pic)

- client wants decking furniture treated (see pic, table+4chairs, feels too light for teak)

Feel free to ask more questions to clarify. Have a great week everyone!

cheers,

/neil

-

FriedmanProject.pdf

[PressurePros 249]

That is going to be too stunning for words if you do it right. Sh*tcan the idea of priming and painting the steps though. I can see no advantage to playing designer and committing these people to use solid stain on those steps for the remainder of the deck life.

When I get a thousand decks under my belt I would be happy to offer advice on pricing ;-)

[Neil_Asheville 114]

Of course it will be done 'right', Ken. LOL You must be pushed for time or something this morning....never known you to miss a chance to say something! Absolutely no love...:lgtear:

I was only considering priming and painting the lower section handrail, not step treads.

/neil

[jnoden 15]

I would really look forward to doing a job like that. Beautiful.

Got to love an easy railing like that. I would just spray and wipe off the Iron spindles as I go. I sometimes struggle estimating multiple jobs like that at a residence because you want to discount it a little for the size of the job yet you want to make a good hourly rate. I would probably be around 3k. $2950.00 looks better. 2 days work with my helper.

[Celeste 341]

Ditto to what Ken says! But if you do it, we'll still love you :)

Celeste

[JFife 14]

I don't understand what you are considering painting?? The "handrail" (actual part you grab)?? The kickplate or whatever you call it on the stairs definitely needs painted or a different color IMO. Is that part of the bid?? Oh, and I'd definitely include in my bid to do the underside of that triangle deck. I've started doing the unders on most decks.....makes a big difference in overall appearance of 2nd story deck. Are you bidding to do shakes, T&G ceiling, etc??? If not, have you tried to unsell??

[PressurePros 249]

Jon I'm reading your post and I'm about to do a search on "unselling" I thought maybe there was new sales technique I wasn't aware of. (thats hat starts happening when you are scanning posts at ten pm)

Neil, too funny man. Yeah I was in a bit of a hurry. If I thought you honestly incapable of putting together an adequate bid I would have evaluated the pictures and gave you my thoughts but I know you will do fine. That looks like a potential winner in the ESI challenge. I keep hearing that people in the south don't appreciate deck maintenance. Yet based upon my sales for RAD and the pictures posted by you, Shane, Celeste and others I know that is untrue.

[JFife 14]

Look for my book, "The Art of the Unsell" coming to shelves soon:) Kind of a good word----needs a good meaning. "UPSELL" for those confused. I'm with you Neil. That job would be a pain to bid.

[Neil_Asheville 114]

I should try and unsell that split rail fence and furniture, then. I got my unders all in a bunch now....thx Jon.

[JFife 14]

You should have named your business,

"NEIL BEFORE ZOD"

pressure washing

I'm going to have to start a marketing firm:)

[PressurePros 249]

Jon, would I be your silent partner?

[JFife 14]

Do you think you could keep quiet for very long??:)

[PressurePros 249]

If the money were right, you'd be surprised what I am capable of. Even keeping quiet.

[Neil_Asheville 114]

Makin' em bow down before me! How about Zodgodly Wood Care. LIke that one!

Ken...silent...surrrrrrrrre;)

/neil

[Greg R 82]

I'm thinking the $2800 - 3k mark myself... there's alot of PITA in the pictures :) - all semi trans. 2 tone adds in about $5 a foot on the rail.