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Deck quote comparison

Compare a surface replacement with a complete deck build without mixing their scopes.

Start with the questions below. Written quotes are required to compare totals; this page does not estimate a market price.

Check what each quote includes

Leave anything unclear as “Ask.” Choose “Extra” to add a separately priced item to that quote’s budget. Do not also put it in the general left-out costs below.

Design and permits

Record the accepted plan, survey or site needs, inspections and who handles them.

Removal

State whether only boards or the entire existing deck comes out and who disposes of it.

Footings and structure

List footings, posts, beams, joists, ledger, lateral support and connections from the design.

Deck surface

Identify board material, dimensions, direction, borders and fastening system.

Stairs and railing

Include landings, handrails, guards, gates and their attachment details.

Finish and access

Record finish coatings, access constraints, protection and site restoration.

Put your quotes side by side

Add only costs left out of each written quote.

Quote A
Costs outside the quote & your reserve

This is money you set aside. It is not a contractor charge or a recommended percentage.

Enter a quoted price

Quote B
Costs outside the quote & your reserve

This is money you set aside. It is not a contractor charge or a recommended percentage.

Enter a quoted price

A price difference helps only after the work matches.

Nothing is sent to a contractor. Saving keeps these entries in this browser; downloading makes a text file.

Before asking for a price

Write “surface only” or “full structure” beside each quote. Keep the plan, elevation, stairs and railing with it.

What the total can tell you

A board count is not a complete deck. The historical AHS category also includes porches, patios and terraces, so it cannot price the design in front of you.

The budget adds the quoted price, separately priced Extra items, other costs left out and any tax not already included. Your chosen reserve is added to that subtotal. Treat every “Ask” row as work that is not yet confirmed as included. Get the answer in writing before comparing totals.