Question 1

How do I quote the cost of decking?

Accepted Answer

Start by measuring the total area in square meters accurately. Choose material type between timber or composite, as this significantly impacts pricing. Calculate board quantities with 10-15% waste factor for cuts and mistakes. Include framing materials like posts, beams, joists, and blocking. Add fasteners, joist hangers, and connection hardware. Factor in railing systems based on linear meters required. Calculate labor hours for site prep, framing, board installation, and finishing work. Include permits, waste disposal, and any finishing treatments. Always visit site to assess access and ground conditions that affect installation difficulty.

Question 2

How much to install decking per m2?

Accepted Answer

Installation costs vary based on material choice and project complexity. Timber decking typically requires different labor rates than composite materials. Ground-level projects are less expensive than elevated structures. Complex patterns like herringbone or diagonal layouts increase labor time. Site access and terrain conditions also impact pricing. Most builders charge separately for materials and labor to provide transparent pricing. Your quote should factor in all these variables rather than using one flat rate. Consider offering tiered options to give clients choice between basic and premium finishes.

Question 3

What should I include in a decking quote?

Accepted Answer

Include your business details and client information clearly at top. List total project area in square meters and material type chosen. Detail all framing components including posts, beams, joists, and blocking. Specify decking board type, quantity, and waste allowance. Include railing system costs with post and balustrade details. Add fasteners, joist hangers, and connection hardware. List labor costs broken down by phase like framing, installation, and finishing. Include permit fees, site preparation, and waste removal. Specify payment terms and how long quote remains valid. Clearly state what is not included to manage expectations.

Question 4

What is the difference between timber and composite decking quotes?

Accepted Answer

Timber decking quotation includes natural wood materials like pine, merbau, or spotted gum that require regular maintenance and sealing. Composite decking quotation covers synthetic boards made from wood fibers and plastic that need minimal upkeep. Timber has lower upfront costs but ongoing maintenance expenses. Composite costs more initially but saves money long-term with no staining or sealing required. Installation methods differ slightly with composite often using hidden fasteners while timber typically uses visible screws. Many builders present both options with pros and cons, letting clients decide based on budget and maintenance preference.

Question 5

How do I calculate framing materials for decking?

Accepted Answer

Determine joist spacing based on board type and span requirements, typically 450mm centers for most decking. Calculate joist quantity by dividing deck length by spacing. Add beams based on joist span from engineering tables. Calculate posts using beam spacing and structure height. Include rim joists around perimeter and blocking between joists for stability. Factor noggins for additional support where required. Add 5-10% waste for framing timber. Reference local building codes for minimum specifications. Different material types have different spanning capabilities, so adjust calculations accordingly.

Question 6

What are common mistakes in decking quotes?

Accepted Answer

Forgetting waste factor is most common error that reduces profits. Not visiting site before quoting leads to inaccurate labor calculations. Underestimating time for difficult access or sloped terrain increases costs later. Missing small items like fasteners, joist hangers, and flashing adds up quickly. Not factoring permit costs and inspection fees into total project price. Quoting without checking current material prices from suppliers. Using old templates without updating rates for inflation. Not specifying material grades clearly, leading client to expect premium when you priced for standard. Always itemize clearly and visit every site before providing final quote.

Question 7

How long should a decking quote remain valid?

Accepted Answer

Most builders set quotes valid for 30 days due to material price fluctuations in the timber and composite markets. Timber and composite prices can change with market conditions and supplier availability. State validity period clearly on quote to protect your margins from unexpected increases. If client accepts after expiry, review current material costs before confirming. Some builders offer shorter 14-day validity during volatile market periods. Extended validity of 60-90 days may require price adjustment clauses for large commercial projects. Always communicate clearly about validity to avoid disputes later.

Question 8

Should I offer different material options in my decking quote?

Accepted Answer

Presenting multiple material options helps clients make informed decisions and increases your chances of winning the project. Create separate line items for timber decking quotation using treated pine or hardwood, and composite decking quotation with different brands or colors. Show price differences clearly along with maintenance requirements for each option. Many successful builders offer good-better-best pricing tiers. This approach lets budget-conscious clients choose affordable options while premium clients can select high-end materials. Including options demonstrates professionalism and flexibility that clients appreciate.

Free Decking Quote Template

Free Decking Quote Template Download

Excel Template

PDF Template

Word Template

Everything You Need in a Quote Template

Material Calculator

Timber & Composite Options

Labor Tracking

Hardware Costs

How to Create a Decking Quote

Measure Project Area

Select Materials

Calculate Components

Add Labor & Send

Common Decking Project Types

Timber Decking Projects

Composite Decking Projects

Multi-Level Projects

Decking Quote Best Practices

Site Visit First

Include Waste Factor

Offer Material Options

Factor Local Codes

Why Use This Decking Quote Template

Professional Presentation

Save Time

Win More Work

Accurate Materials

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