Putting together a deck estimate doesn't need to be complicated, but it does need to be clear, complete, and easy for your client to understand. A sloppy estimate leads to questions, confusion, and missed profit.
Here's a simple checklist for what every deck building estimate should include. Whether you're a solo deck builder or running a growing crew, this guide will help you look more professional and land more jobs.
Quick Start: Need a template to follow along? Download our free Deck Builder Estimate Template to get started.
✅ 1. Project Summary
Start with a brief description of the job. This gives the client clarity and sets the tone.
Example:
“Build a 12x16 pressure-treated wood deck with stairs and black aluminum railing. Includes removal of existing structure.”
✅ 2. Materials Breakdown
List the key materials and quantities. You don’t need to itemize every screw, but do highlight the big stuff.
- Framing lumber (type and dimensions)
- Decking boards (composite or wood)
- Fasteners and hardware
- Railing system
- Stairs (if applicable)
- Concrete footings or piers
- Sealant or finish (if staining or sealing is included)
✅ 3. Labor Costs
Show how much you're charging for labor and what’s included. Keep it clear and professional.
- Demo and site prep
- Framing and decking install
- Stair and railing install
- Cleanup and disposal
If you charge by the hour or by the job, just be upfront.
✅ 4. Permits & Inspections
If you're handling permits, include that in the estimate. You don’t want this becoming a surprise later.
- Building permit fee (include city cost plus admin fee if applicable)
- Inspection scheduling and handling
✅ 5. Timeline
Give a ballpark start and end date. Clients want to know how long they’ll be without a backyard.
Tip: Pad the schedule a bit for rain or material delays. Always better to finish early than late.
✅ 6. Payment Schedule
Be clear on when payments are due. A common structure:
- 30% deposit to book the job
- 40% after framing
- 30% upon completion
You can save this as a reusable template in Dave and include it automatically in your estimates. Makes life easier for you and sets expectations clearly for the client.
✅ 7. Total Cost
List the full project cost before tax and after tax. Clients like seeing the full picture.
Example:
Subtotal: $11,200
Tax (13%): $1,456
Total: $12,656
✅ 8. Terms & Conditions
Protect yourself with a few basic terms:
- Warranty details (materials and labor)
- Change order process
- What’s not included (landscaping, grading, etc.)
- Validity of estimate (usually 30 days)
✅ 9. Client Signature
Make it official. If you're using Dave, you can include a contract and e-signature right in the estimate. No back-and-forth or extra paperwork.
Make Estimates Easy with Dave
Deck jobs aren’t one-size-fits-all, but your estimating process can be smooth every time.
With Dave, you can:
- Use trade-specific templates for deck projects
- Organize materials and labor by category
- Add photos and notes for reference
- Include contracts and e-signatures
- Track when clients open and approve estimates
- Get feedback or revisions in one place
Plus, your estimates are always saved by project, so you can easily revisit and revise them as needed.
Related Resources
Looking for more help with deck building estimates and pricing? Check out these tools:
- Free Deck Builder Estimate Template - Download our Excel/PDF template with all the line items you need
- Markup Calculator - Make sure you're pricing your deck jobs profitably
- Profit Margin Calculator - Track how much you're actually making per job
- Service Price Calculator - Calculate what to charge including overhead and profit
- Dave's Estimating Features - Learn how Dave makes deck estimates faster and more professional