Are these estimates ridiculous?
I just received two estimates for small jobs from a contractor that I’ve been using for a while. One of them seems like it might be OK, the other seems very high to me. I was wondering what other people thought. The first is to replace all of the wood on the outside of a…
I just received two estimates for small jobs from a contractor that I’ve been using for a while. One of them seems like it might be OK, the other seems very high to me. I was wondering what other people thought.
The first is to replace all of the wood on the outside of a dormer window. There is more than enough roof to stand on so this does not involve any scaffolding or big ladders. The estimate was almost $1800.
The second was to put in a new door to the backyard, including a screen door and an iron security door. This is only for labor, not the cost of the three doors. However, it also includes building a frame for the door – the old opening has been gutted to the brick. The estimate is $1400.
This is from a contractor whose work I know and trust.
Are these out of whack with reality?
I know this thread is ancient, but I just wanted to say … you probably get the idea.
You don’t always get what you pay for, people get scammed all the time at both ends of the scale of shelling out. Get a couple of bids, check references, and monitor the work closely. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about how the bill will be broken down.
Every single one of these responses here are from contractors so take that into account.
It’s your money so go for it if you want, but I’ve gotten a doorframe built and doors installed for half that price and it was done well.
Thanks 10:22, that’s just what I’m going to do! Let’s see, I don’t work, so three workers times three days…carry the nine…wait, let me get my calculator…zero! I’ll counter his estimate with zero dollars!
God, you people crack me up. Thanks for all of the good advice.
Give me your contractors contact info. I can double his rates and make a profit.
-a professional in brooklyn
10:22
You rule
DIRT CHEAP
These estimates are low. How much do you make a day? Do the math, divide the price by the amount of workers and how many days. Not to mention, the prices of gas, wood (for around the window) and running a business..
If cmu wanted to pay half his contractors estimates he would be in line with Calcutta wages. I am not a contractor, nor do I work in construction. I do however work for a living.
Installing the wood doors should be easy, don’t know about the iron one, so it’s hard to say.
Most contractor’s estimates are about double what I’d pay, so these are in line. I use handymen all the time and have been quite satisfied.
Hi there guest, not sure what you’re reading, but I never mentioned a handyman or a friend, just a contractor. Just asking about the prices. If I confused you with the crackhead banter, well, not much I can do to help you there, except maybe send you here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deadpan