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Need Advice Screened-porch estimate

Discussion in 'Homeowners Corner' started by SW813, Nov 16, 2010.

  1. SW813

    SW813 New Member

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    We are planning on having a screened-porch in our backyard. Received an initial estimate from Professional Remodeling Group for around 20-25K. The porch would be around 10X12, composite, gable roof with a ceiling fan. Has anyone worked with the contractor before? Does the estimate seem reasonable? Please advice.
     
  2. afgm

    afgm Ashburn Farm Resident

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    That sounds like a going price. Ridiculous but about what I've seen quoted.

    Try and get the quote broken out into labor and materials. A lot of times the materials are inflated. I have seen them double the cost you can get it for by yourself. Take a material list over to T.W. Perry or Tart and get a quote for materials delivered. You might be able to get the contractor to agree to this and then only pay him for labor. Could save a lot depending on how he created the quote.
     
  3. Chance3

    Chance3 New Member

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    The best way to ensure that you are paying the correct price is to obtain a minimum of 3 quotations. When evaluating proposals, you should look at their bonding ability (are they licensed and bonded?), their proposed schedule for when they would start and how long it will take, what materials they are using (quantity, level of quality and finish), proper permits and inspections and their mark-up percentages. Even when obtaining competitive pricing, sometimes the lowest price is not always the best VALUE, when you take into account all of the other above items. In the current economy, contractors are out there trying to win business. Some (NOT all) will submit below cost quotes and then add on additional services at a higher rate. However, most contractors are very ethical businesses and are trying to succeed in tough times with fair pricing and high quality. Just be careful and check references.

    Regarding the previous posted response, a lot of contractors will not agree to provide labor only, as this is where they make additional mark-up, but it is worth asking. Just as you do in your own business, everyone is entitled to earn a fair and reasonable profit.

    I am a Construction Manager, so feel free to send me any more questions if you have any.
     
  4. afgm

    afgm Ashburn Farm Resident

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    Chance3, I agree. I am all for paying a fair price representing a reasonable profit. I am not for hidden profits saddled onto material costs. It's ok to pay a contractor for his time to find and purchase the products but that should be part of the labor costs. For me, I am going to want to know what he is paying for materials. It is also a good way to assure another one of your good points, that being what is the grade and quality of the material being used? If a contractor won't show me the material list and costs then I am suspicious.
     
  5. SW813

    SW813 New Member

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    Thanks so much for the responses. We tried contacting few other contractors who were recommended on some previous threads on this forum. No one has responded so far. So, I guess there is plenty of business in this area. I will post more information once we get some detailed estimates.
     
  6. SchwarzFamily

    SchwarzFamily New Member

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  7. SW813

    SW813 New Member

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    We did try calling Blue Moon Construction, but haven't heard from them yet.
     
  8. rich351854

    rich351854 New Member

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    The funny thing is when I have tried to get quotes on projects - I have just had a huge challenge getting people out who follow through (in other words getting 3 quotes takes a lot of work)
     
  9. mjbenteler

    mjbenteler mom2three

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    We got a quote for converting half of our deck (approx 350-400 sq ft) into a screened porch. It was about $23,000.
     

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