Why separate framing from decking?
Framing is code and safety; decking is looks. Splitting them shows where the structural cost is and lets a customer upgrade boards without touching the frame price.
Deck · Free estimate sample
The general shape of a deck estimate. Footings and framing, decking, railing, stairs, and permit each visible — because the structure under the deck is where the money and the code live.
Common practice
Deck disputes are about the framing nobody sees and the railing everybody touches.
Framing is code and safety; decking is looks. Splitting them shows where the structural cost is and lets a customer upgrade boards without touching the frame price.
Railing can cost as much as the deck surface. Its own line keeps the per-square-foot comparison honest.
Decks are one of the most-inspected residential projects. A permit line shows the customer it's being done to code and inspected.
Before you send it
Deck code is national in outline but local in detail, and permits are nearly universal.
General information, not legal, tax, or licensing advice. Requirements differ by state, county, and city and change over time. Confirm with your state licensing board and the local authority having jurisdiction before relying on any of this.
Estimator notes
Internally yes; on the document, show categories. Railing and stairs distort per-foot comparisons.
Sometimes, depending on height and span. Exclude them and price if required.
Exclude house-side repair and price it as a change if found.
30 days. Composite and lumber pricing both move.