I recently went to give an estimate on a 8'x14' deck floor approx. 7"off the ground just a simple floor deck attached 2 sides to the homes frame.I quoted the job complete turn key for under 1k.I was told it was too high and they wanted to find someone cheaper.I normally blow these HO off after that but this guy really got under my skin for some reason.I have started to find that more HO I supply estimates too are looking for the cheapest price they can have the work done for.
I have all my insurance, pay my subs, guarantee my workmanship for a year and figure very little margin on this sort of job(5%).I just don't understand what these people want these days.The damn material alone was almost half that estimate.Oh well....have a good week everyone...
I wouldn't even consider building that deck for under 1K. I had someone call me and ask me if I would build them a 16 x 40 deck with composite decking and railing for under 10k. I almost laughed at them while they where still on the phone. I don't know how you can build a 8 x 14 deck that cheap correctly. I think your way under bidding them, you might want to revisit your pricing methods.
I only went to look at this little BS job to keep 2 guys busy for a day,they are good workers who like some live week to week, while we waited on permits for a commercial job starting Tuesday.It was so simple a job, no hand rails, no steps, just a floor attacahed to the house about 7" off the driveway.basically they walk out the door onto the deck then onto the driveway.A one day job at most...maybe i should have been more clear...I think under 1k was very fair, all 2x6 framing with hangers,easy as pie.:clap:
I don't know if this would have helped in this case or not, but a standard question in our first visit is "How will you know when you've found the right contractor for this project?" If the answer is lowest price I explain that it probably won't be us and try to excuse myself.
If the answer is "the best price", ask how they determine that.
When the answer involves best quality or reliability, etc. my ears perk up and I go to work.
The idea is to try and flush out the price shoppers and let some one else waste their time instead of you.
Good Luck
Dave