Estimating Porch Replacement Costs
Spring is fast approaching, and many homeowners will be spending more time outdoors. This is prime time to consider outdoor upgrades and renovations.
Potential clients may reach out hoping for a great porch or deck upgrade. If you're new to estimating porch replacement projects, here's a few tips to help you get started!
Consultation
The first step is typically a consultation with your client. Discuss their vision for the porch replacement, including the style, materials and budget they have in mind.
Will this be a wraparound porch? Portico? Are the materials composite? Concrete? Stone? Will there be a built-in roof or covering? Get as much detail as you can from your client so you can discuss their options.
Current porch condition
Next we’ll want to examine the existing porch. How old is the porch, and what is the condition? Decide if the project will involve a complete replacement, and if there are repairs needed for the existing structure. Take note of any problems - structural issues, rotting, etc. Is the existing foundation in good condition, or will need to be replaced?
All of this will impact the project cost, so you’ll want to discuss your findings and with the homeowner and review options.
Measure
Now let’s measure. Multiply length x width to find the total surface area. Take any additional measurements for the porch structure to set up your design.
Once you have your measurements, use them to determine your material dimensions and quantities. Once you have plans drawn up, make a list of specific material quantities from your plans.
Take note of what materials you’ll need - decking, framing lumber, posts, railings, steps, fasteners, roofing materials, finishes, concrete etc. If you're demoing the old porch, be sure to account for time and equipment needed. Include costs for things like debris removal and soil excavation.
Clear Estimates pre-built templates make it easy to plug in your measurements and price out your estimate fast!
Estimating Material Costs
Contact suppliers in your area to get quotes on the materials you'll need. Multiply your material dimensions by the unit cost for each material.
This step can be time consuming, as you'll need to research the costs of each specific material. Fortunately, Clear Estimates saves you this step by offering a library of locally sourced material costs you can use to build out your estimate.
Estimating Time
Calculate the time for installation relative to the size of the project and materials used. If needed, factor in the time you'll spend demolishing the old structure as well as site prep.
A small basic porch may take around a week or two to complete. A larger covered or wraparound porch could take a month or more, depending on the exact scope.
Fortunately, Clear Estimates part library has built-in labor hours for each task, so estimating man hours is as easy as a few clicks!
Calculate Labor Rates
Now, multiply your projected man hours by your labor rates. This can be one of the most challenging parts of the estimate, as you'll need to calculate the direct costs of paying your crew (wage, taxes) as well as indirect costs like benefits & overhead.
Clear Estimates solves this by offering suggested hourly labor rates from your area, already built into thousands of items in your library.
Applying Markup
Factor in a markup percentage to cover profit and business expenses.
Clear Estimates offers built-in Markup tools, which can be set either per job, per line item, or by default in your account.
Finalizing the Estimate
Be sure to account for the unforeseen. Build contingency costs into your estimate for unexpected issues or work delays. Be sure all equipment is accounted for, i.e. temporary bracing, house jacks, temporary facilities etc.
Write a detailed contract that outlines the specifics of the project, as well as any terms, conditions, or escalation clauses in the event of material cost fluctuations.
Clear Estimates lets you to set up a contract with ease!
Before sending out your proposal, review it for accuracy. Make sure your estimate is detailed, professional and includes your full contract agreement. Personalize it with your company's logo, and include a place for your client to sign. Now, present the estimate to your client for approval.
Clear Estimates automatically generates a professional proposal from your estimate instantly!
Save Time With Templates
Want to get your estimate out the door in a fraction of the time? Clear Estimates offers over 300 pre-built templates for common jobs - including porch replacement work!
Join us for our upcoming webinar Estimating Porch Repalcement Costs. We'll discuss what types of porch replacement templates are available in Clear Estimates, and how to use them to save time on your estimate. Click below to register now!
