r/Contractor

Got three estimates for a deck this summer. One guy had $18k listed for labor alone before materials. I ran the numbers at my desk and couldn't figure out how they got there. Another was half that, and the third split the difference but added a note about possible rot under the existing posts that wasn't in the original scope. I already ripped out the old one last fall so I know the ground is level and there's decent access. Still, the middle price keeps creeping up every time I ask for a clarification. For anyone who bids this kind of work, what usually moves a quote that far from the first number they give? And if the low bid shows up with two guys and a pickup, how often does that end up costing more once they're on site? I'm trying to decide whether to lock one in before the weather turns or just keep stacking the lumber in the garage until next year.

I have been working and doing “carpentry” for around two years now. We do pretty much everything except the inside stuff such as electrical, plumbing,concrete, etc. We do about everything else though as in remodeling and just working on houses in general. I know I have a lot to learn and there’s no doubt about it. I’m only 19. My grandpa is going to teach me how to build a house ground up and I mean every part of that house, I will build with him. Only so much information I can retain in one house though. He is going to give me the house with no cost as well as his truck and trailer. Then what??

Homeowner here trying to follow the sub rules! Hired a licensed home improvement contractor to tear down a rotten unfinished chimney and rebuild the exterior wall. We pulled the chimney down and also discovered more rot due to years of water damage.

I’ve paid $10K for demo, trash removal, temporary drywall for the fireplace opening (so we don’t have a hole to the outside), reframe of soffit/fascia, and install of insulation/sheathing/exterior siding.

I’d appreciate opinions on pricing as the guy has been professional, timely, and communicative, but I don’t have context on how much this should all be. Thanks all.