"Any Contractor's" General Costs

Pros and Cons:   There are high priced contractors out there that tend to make the "customer pay" for operating their business, and the contractor that is trying to make an honest living.  Look at the way he/she is dressed, what kind of vehicle is driven, how the person handles themselves, and how your questions and concerns are answered and met.

By the hour or the job:   depending on the work needed and the possibility of unforeseen problems, contractor's may charge by the hour (which can get very expensive), or by the job (which is a good deal), just be sure to get the job in detail even if each itemized work detail isn't priced (usually materials and labor are priced).

Service Calls:   a trip made by a repairman to visit the location of something in need of service, typically run between $25 up to over $100.  Although Estimates are hopefully free, they should be done prior to any work.  As Murphy's Law seems to be lurking around when it comes to construction work, we must always remember an estimate is an estimate.  And it is good practice to get any additional work in writing and in agreement between customer and contractor.

Window Repair & Installation:  Depending on the type of work needed.  Repairing a frame or replacing the glass unit may run $25 and up an hour, to include materials.  Installing or replacing the whole window, usually start at $70 a window, with additional charges to include additional personnel for bigger sized and 2nd or 3rd floor installation.

Doors:  Depending on the type of door and where it is installed, labor usually starts at:

Interior Door    $30 and up        Storm Door    $65 and up    Pet Door    $90 and up

Entry Door    $150 and up        Patio Door $250 and up        Garage Door    $300 and up

How much to build a deck?   The factors that effect deck construction are:
- Type of material                    - Height from the ground
- Special features (extended steps, staircases, benches, etc.)
- Railings and railing design.

In general you will see estimates between $12.00 to $24.00 a sq ft for decks built 30 inches or less from the ground with railings and basic steps. Composite type materials add several dollars per square foot, but save you money over the life of the deck. Check to see if  "Water Sealant" is included in price.

For Example:  A typical 200 sq ft deck with basic railings and steps is going to be $2,600.00 to $4,600.00  Add $1.00 per sq ft if the deck is higher than thirty inches from the ground.  Don't forget the $1 to $3  per sq ft to tear the old one down if needed.

Deck Repair:  can run from $2.50 to $6 per sq ft plus materials, depending on the type and current deck conditions, sometimes a new deck might be a better investment.

Deck Covers: (highly recommended in Colorado's high altitude) run between $8.00 and $25.00 a sq ft depending on materials and style. The easiest way to calculate this is to double the cost of the deck with a cover or roof.

Painting/Staining/Refinishing a Deck:  Typically run between $2.00  to $6 a sq ft.  Be sure that power washing is included when staining and sometimes painting.

Fencing:  New fencing is between $18 to $45 per linear foot, depending on the type of fence.  If you have an existing fence to tear down, there is possibly a charge of $2 to $3 per lf.  Check to see if  "Water Sealant" is included in price.

Fence Repair:  can run from $4.50 to $10 per lf, depending on the type of fencing and current fence conditions.