Bidding a Stain Job: Tips and Tricks for Contractors

A deck can be stained to withstand the elements and maintain its attractiveness for many years. There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re a contractor wanting to bid on a stain project to make sure you’re offering an accurate price and giving your clients an excellent service.

Prior to submitting a bid, it’s crucial to evaluate the deck’s condition. You must account for those extra expenditures if the deck needs substantial prep work because of its bad condition. This can entail power cleaning, sanding, and any repairs that are required. On the other hand, your bid will probably be lower if the deck is in good shape and only needs a fresh coat of stain.

You should also take the size of the deck and the required amount of stain into account when setting your price. Generally speaking, stains cover 200–300 square feet per gallon, however this can change based on the stain’s nature and the state of the wood. Measure the deck accurately, taking into account any railings or other features that will need to be stained. The kind of stain your client wants is a crucial consideration when putting together an offer for a stain job. There are many different stains available, including solid, clear, and semi-transparent ones. Each variety differs in price and has a unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Make sure to go over the options with your client and include the stain’s cost in your bid.

Building a deck can be difficult, especially if you have no prior construction experience. Even though some homeowners might be able to construct a deck on their own, the majority will want to employ a qualified contractor to make sure the job is done correctly. A deck build is not a task to be done lightly as it involves careful planning, accurate measurements, and a variety of tools and supplies.

The materials utilized, the complexity of the design, and the project’s location are just a few of the variables that can greatly affect the price of constructing a 20×20 deck. A 20×20 deck typically costs between $6,000 and $14,000 to build, with more expensive projects costing up to $20,000 or more.

The size and spacing of the joists, the kind of wood used, and the amount of weight the deck will need to hold are just a few of the variables that affect the maximum span for deck joists. In general, 2×6 and 2×8 joists can span up to 9 and 12 feet, respectively. To calculate the proper joist spacing, you may need to speak with a professional engineer if you’re constructing a larger deck or using heavier materials.

You won’t often have to pay taxes on a deck build. Your property taxes can change if the deck considerably raises the value of your home. It’s wise to always check with your local authorities to see if there are any additional fees or licenses needed for deck construction in your area.