How to Estimate a Deck Job
Deck bids go wrong when the estimate counts boards but not the structure. This checklist prices the whole deck.
Quick answer: Estimate in order: decking (+waste) → joists/beams/posts → footings → railings & stairs → hardware → labor → margin.
Surface and structure
Count deck boards with waste, then joists, beams, posts and footings — the structure is most of the labor. The deck calculator counts the boards and joists so the material list is complete.
The extras that add up
Railings, stairs, hidden fasteners, flashing at the ledger, and permits/inspection are real costs. Height and access change the labor hours. Price each as a line item.
FAQ
What do contractors forget when bidding a deck?
Footings and framing, stairs, railings, hidden fasteners, ledger flashing, and permit/inspection costs beyond the decking boards.
How do I price deck labor?
Apply a crew rate to the framing and decking hours, adjusted for height, access and railing/stair complexity, then add margin.