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Discussion Forum

How much to charge for these bookcases?

andybuildz | Posted in Business on August 8, 2007 07:28am

 Just a ballpark price?

I have a customer that sent me this picture of a set of bookcases someone built for her a ways back and she wants me to build something similar in her new home. I’ve built tons of cases but I’m not up to par on current costs for this kind of project.

I could just use my normal figuring of how long I think it will take me plus materials plus profit etc. but I don’t really like doing that because I think sometimes you should get more or less depending on the project.

Thanks

andy

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“the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I’ve heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu – buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc… “author unknown

 how it sounds^–>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

HTTP://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

 


Edited 8/8/2007 12:30 am ET by andybuildz

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Replies

  1. PatchogPhil | Aug 08, 2007 07:34am | #1

    I hope you don't charge less than your T&M plus profit.  Any reason(s) why you might do it for less (not counting family)?

     

     

     

    Quantum materiae materietur marmota monax si marmota monax materiam possit materiari?

    1. andybuildz | Aug 08, 2007 07:42am | #3

      I hope you don't charge less than your T&M plus profit. Any reason(s) why you might do it for less (not counting family)?<<<No no no...I'm thinking more than the normal every day reno work!
      Cabinetry is more exact and time consuming to get things right.
      Its not an 1/8" forgiving like reno work...more like 1/16th or less.
      How much more is that worth?

       

       

       

      "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

       how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

      http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

       

  2. rez | Aug 08, 2007 07:36am | #2

    You know the rules.

    I've got to say it...

     

     

     

    $27,114.86

     

    1. andybuildz | Aug 08, 2007 07:43am | #4

      You know the rules.I've got to say it... $27,114.86 <<OK you get the doggy bisquits assuming they pay me that...lol

       

       

       

      "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

       how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

      http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

       

  3. User avater
    PeteDraganic | Aug 08, 2007 01:31pm | #5

    $2,800.00

     

    http://www.petedraganic.com/

    1. Piffin | Aug 08, 2007 01:54pm | #7

      Good Morning frenchy!;)I was thinking closer to eight grand finished and installed, but could easily go over ten grand, depending. 

       

      Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

      1. User avater
        PeteDraganic | Aug 08, 2007 02:05pm | #11

        Somebody had to be the lowball this morning.

        Actually, the cabs don't look too fine with stained plywood.  Shouldn't be more than a week's work onsite.

        Materials should run less than a grand and I figured the cabs at about 9 running feet.  Maybe they are 12.

        Ok, so let's look at this again.

        Considering from what I've seen of Andy's work, I think he is talented and will do a fine job on these.  Also considering that he lives in LI where everything is more costly to operate.......

        $6000.00 would be more than fair at $500 per r.f. even if they are 12'.

         

        http://www.petedraganic.com/

        1. Piffin | Aug 08, 2007 02:32pm | #12

          Yeah, I don't know what level of craftmanship and finish the client is looking for on this. I think Andy said she wanted something like this. I would have to start by asking her a lot of questions to understand what she meant and then design it. But I did notice that what is in the photo looks cheap to me.Still, IF something like this could be cobbled together from factory cabinets, I doubt you could by the parts for 2800! You just might be able to do a cheap version for six grand. 

           

          Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

          1. andybuildz | Aug 08, 2007 02:48pm | #17

            I deleted and edited this post once because I felt bad in my original post saying I thought the quality of those cabs looked kind of cheap but that is what I thought. Looks like a DIY job.
            I'm off to go there right now...nice little job..finish a basement..some french doors, painting before they move in.
            Whats nice is they want it done before they move in so I'd have an empty house to work in.
            The cabinets would be done in my shop not on site.
            Like I said to Duane...I was thinking around 12grand without figuring it out tooth and nail yet.
            Thanks

             

             

             

            "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

             how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

            http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

             

          2. Piffin | Aug 09, 2007 12:05am | #28

            Yeah, good quality work on that gold coast should make it that much, for sure. 

             

            Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

        2. User avater
          bobl | Aug 08, 2007 02:34pm | #13

          As an HO, I think a fair price is $950.99. 

          bobl          Volo, non valeo

          Baloney detecter    WFR

          "But when you're a kibbutzer and have no responsibility to decide the facts and apply the law, you can reach any conclusion you want because it doesn't matter." SHG

        3. andybuildz | Aug 08, 2007 02:44pm | #16

          This is the "Gold Coast" of Long Island don't forget. Taxes on these houses alone cost more than peoples mortgages in most parts of the country....for real.
          Thanks though...they are from Penn. so they just might be thinking what you said. Hope they're ready for a wake up call.

           

           

           

          "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

           how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

          http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

           

      2. grpphoto | Aug 09, 2007 05:31am | #41

        The proper way to phrase that would be "I think it would be about $10,000, but it could come in a little less."George Patterson

  4. Jer | Aug 08, 2007 01:52pm | #6

    If you really have the room to do something like this, off the top of my head soup to nuts, 15,500.

    1. andybuildz | Aug 08, 2007 02:53pm | #18

      Jer..depends what they want. Could add on another 2+ grand to about $12000ish to the standard cabs between lighting, file cabinets and different add ons.
      I think your number would be with the whole nine yards and then some.
      Thanks

       

       

       

      "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

       how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

      http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

       

      1. Jer | Aug 09, 2007 02:41pm | #48

        10-15 years ago when I had a small shop I wanted to really get into doing projects like the one you're showing here. I did a number of them from building small chairs & table to entire rooms of built ins with wainscoting etc. I made a profit on I think, one of them. And when I say profit, I mean overage from what I paid myself as salary (back then I think it was $28 hr.) There were a number of problems. The shop was too small to get a real production mode going, I would not take into account certain things like hidden wiring and plumbing in the walls, every one of the houses were old with all the ills that go with it.
        But the biggest thing was I simply under priced the projects because in my mind I would convince myself that I could do the jobs in a certain amount of made up time. Yes I would step everything out and put a time tag on it and add it up and even throw in a little slush.But real time dictates another truth.My Achilles heel was I wanted the job and I was focused on that alone.If you added all the hours I would really spend on a project like this...the drawings, the layout, the trips there to measure and remeasure, the getting of the materials, all the extra milling if they didn't have the moldings I wanted, the finishing (oy the finishing), the fasteners, the hardware...it would come out to usually half again what I figured in the first place.
        And then on top of that is the usual overhead of running my shop, the salary I would pay myself, and then a profit to put back into my business.Yeah....right. I wanted the job is all I knew. All that overhead stuff will work itself out in the 'slush'. Right?I went to my 20th high school reunion 15 years and stayed in the house of my old best friend from then. He did auto body repair and had his own business, and did fairly well. I'll never forget what he told me over dinner & drinks one night.
        "Step it all out, figure what it's really going to take, materials and time etc., come up with that number.
        Now double it, and there's your price"Words of wisdom from my old pal Mike. You'd be surprised at how accurate that way was.One thing I always tended to forget is that people are willing to pay for a great job well done.And there's always more.

        1. User avater
          Sphere | Aug 09, 2007 02:49pm | #49

          Yo Jer, that is exactly what I had done, and some how continue to do. I can't believe what I had I just read, coming from someone else.

          Right down to the HSchool buddy, except mine is the owner of a Battery store in QTown.

          Blew me away with that post! 

        2. andybuildz | Aug 09, 2007 04:19pm | #50

          Well thats why I said in my previous post that I've learned to go with the numbers I know are right. Too many times I used to keep looking at those numbers and thinking, "Its THAT much, WOW"..and always scaled it down. Took awhile to figure out my original numbers were always right.
          I still look at the number and think..THAT MUCH? but then I think that when I go to the movies and the sign says nine dollars...I think THAT MUCH? And look at gas prices per gallon and think THAT MUCH? and get the bill for my HMO and think THAT MUCH?Only problem is too many other contractors think that too and lower their numbers and price you right out but if you let that effect you than you'll never get anywhere. I think its all part of selling yourself and who you are and what you do not as much as who you say you are. I think thats why web sites are impoertant. They show who you are and what you're capable of. Even word of mouth isn't always just the answer but it sure helps too. All that marketing stuff adds up. Says a lot about how much you care vs the part time crapsman.Once you "lower your prices" you set your bottom line.
          I'd rather be told that, Andy's someone thats not cheap...but he is good.
          I'll tell you what helps my numbers ALOT. I add up my materials..ADD PROFIT to that! Figure my labor and helpers labor...ADD PROFIT to that.
          Those profit numbers really put things in the right light.
          Too many people set their own saleries and think thats good enough.They think they've set their saleries high enough to cover it all...
          Its not..thats why they call it running your own business and not working for someone else.
          Good post Jer!!!
          Hey even if I don't land this job at least it made for whats turning into a good thread.

           

           

           

          "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

           how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

          http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

           

          1. Jer | Aug 09, 2007 04:46pm | #51

            ...A good thread indeed. It's always good to revisit the mistakes. I often ask myself the question, what would I rather face...The minute and a half that a flustered HO laughs and tells you how ridiculously expensive you are and that he can get his Uncle Tinuse to do it for a third of that?... (At which point you gather yourself and thank him very much and politely leave). Ok, add an extra 15 seconds to allow your fragile ego to get over it.Or The several days and sometimes weeks of labor and anger as you rail at the Gods for your decision to work for nothing?You got 30 seconds.Note: The former has happened to me maybe 5 times in 30 years of work. The latter?....time's up!

          2. Buttkickski | Aug 09, 2007 04:53pm | #52

            "I often ask myself the question, what would I rather face...

            The minute and a half that a flustered HO laughs and tells you how ridiculously expensive you are and that he can get his Uncle Tinuse to do it for a third of that?... (At which point you gather yourself and thank him very much and politely leave). Ok, add an extra 15 seconds to allow your fragile ego to get over it.

            Or

            The several days and sometimes weeks of labor and anger as you rail at the Gods for your decision to work for nothing?"

             

            WOW...that was a terrific analogy of several of my past jobs! 

            "I never met a man who didn't owe somebody something."

          3. User avater
            Sailfish | Aug 09, 2007 05:14pm | #53

            whatever your price ends up being; this thread is a really good read.

             

            Oh, I hope you get the job too-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

            "If you come to a fork in the road, take it"

  5. User avater
    Sphere | Aug 08, 2007 02:00pm | #8

    Between 9k and 12K , depends on a few things.

     

    1. DougU | Aug 08, 2007 02:05pm | #10

      I'm staying out of this one!

      But...........Pete's to low and rez is to high

      Doug

      1. rez | Aug 08, 2007 08:18pm | #26

        Just goes to show that some of you guys that post on here are so far out of my league I can't even get a joke right. 

         

        snorK*

         

        1. Piffin | Aug 09, 2007 12:12am | #30

          whaddya mean?!I bet Doug could manage to enjoy doing that for your price!;) 

           

          Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

          1. DougU | Aug 09, 2007 02:20am | #32

            Hell, I'd build, deliver and install them for less then that - then there'd be a little on the table for him!

            A win win deal!

            Doug

    2. andybuildz | Aug 08, 2007 02:40pm | #15

      I was thinking exactly the same thing. By the time its all said and done probably $12,000 I was thinking off the top of my head .

       

       

       

      "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

       how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

      http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

       

  6. User avater
    Gene_Davis | Aug 08, 2007 02:03pm | #9

    Something similar was discussed in my "Price This" thread, right here in this Business folder, just a couple weeks ago.

    The most succinct presentation of a pricing method came from a poster who said,

    "I get a $1200.00 design fee a similar job. Non-refundable. To fabricate: $42.50 per LI. $150 per door.(inset $195) $85.00 per drawer.($135 for self-closing undermount) No drawers shown in sketch. IMO no drawers is  is a design breakdown. Delivery and install is $11.00 per LI plus a AGV fee, if applicable, for a local delivery."

    Yours might be 150 lineal inches (LI) wide, thus the number might compute to $1200 + (150 x $42.50) + (8 x $150) = $8,775 for the package, delivered.  Installation would be another ($11.00 x 150) = $1,650.

    Your design has a counter/desk feature and a soffit with lighting, which would add in some more materials and labor, so factor up accordingly. 

    1. andybuildz | Aug 08, 2007 02:36pm | #14

      Thanks Gene...I should have looked first through archives and will go back and do that as well.
      Aprreciate it.

       

       

       

      "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

       how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

      http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

       

    2. stevent1 | Aug 09, 2007 03:33am | #34

      Gene,

      I am flattered to be quoted.

      I have been fabricating millwork for 30 some years, insitutional, commercial and residential. I have built and restored houses as a GC and a bunch of jobs to pay the bills. Your specs in "Price This" called for distressed pine. Andy's looks like FAS red oak. The basic LI. price would be less. Depending on the customer, the AGV fee could be waived.

      BTW, Did you check out http://www.horizon-cnc.com/   You had asked for other CNC fabricators in a thread a while back.

      I use several other 5 piece door fabricators that are half the cost of Walzcraft and Conestoga. Most door companies pricing is based on a customer's volume with a look back period.

       

      Chuck S.live, work, build, ...better with wood

      1. User avater
        Sphere | Aug 09, 2007 03:40am | #35

        Ya know, it wasn't the distressed so much as the "Clear" pine he specced. There was a lot of expanse there to get "Clear" out of a species that has whorls every 18 inches or so.

        Sugar pine sure, white pine? Good luck, culling, straight line ripping, and glue up.

        And yer right, that Oak is a Pc of cake to get. 

        1. stevent1 | Aug 09, 2007 03:51am | #36

          Brian,

          I love it ($$$)  when clear NE White Pine is spec'ed.

          Chuck Slive, work, build, ...better with wood

          1. User avater
            Sphere | Aug 09, 2007 03:59am | #37

            Its Duane, but thats OK. LOL

            Yeah, all dat pine is $$$$$.   

          2. stevent1 | Aug 09, 2007 05:01am | #40

            My Bad.

            Chuck Slive, work, build, ...better with wood

  7. DavidxDoud | Aug 08, 2007 02:55pm | #19

    price is cheaper if you don't have to plumb the electrical boxes...

     

     

    "there's enough for everyone"
  8. Buttkickski | Aug 08, 2007 04:13pm | #20

    $7,800 installed.

    BTW, black melamine backs would look 10X nicer than that cheap Oak ply...just a suggestion.

     

    "I never met a man who didn't owe somebody something."

  9. Lansdown | Aug 08, 2007 04:25pm | #21

    Out by me you could probably fetch closer to $15K.

    1. User avater
      Gene_Davis | Aug 08, 2007 06:06pm | #22

      Andy said "gold coast," and you must be out where the hedge fund managers are.

      I should show Andy how to do the whole thing as a collection of preengineered and prefinished purchased components, with the carcases all made from CNC-cut parts, using factory-finished veneer plywood or melamine, the front parts all biscuited or splined for no-fastener attachment, the whole thing done from parts to load-out-the-tools in a couple of days.

      At $15K sell, the profit margin would be insane.

      1. Lansdown | Aug 08, 2007 06:14pm | #23

        You got that right. Renovation cost can easily be $500+/sf. That's why I spent the winter building my own house.

      2. andybuildz | Aug 08, 2007 06:39pm | #24

        Just got back from the estimate. they don't live there yet so its too hard to really go over yet but they're gonna be expensive...that I can tell you. The ceilings are 12' alone. Could be as much as 18' long with two built in desks.
        I just got off the phone with her...she lives in Penn now but will be moving here in a week.
        She agreed that she has to be here to really go over it all. I told her I can't waste time figuring out something without her here unless she has plans...which she doesn't.
        Nice job too...a little painting of about a dozen rooms...a huge empty basement (30x50)that she wants finshed ...has 8' ceilings and easy access ...some french doors etc etc.
        She wants it done yesterday is the only problem. Hopes the seller will let me in before he's out(meanwhile I haven't even given her a price yet..lol)...yehhhhhhhh righttttttttt. I wouldn't do that if he would let me..which he wouldn't..not to mention I'll be in California towards the end of next week for a week.Hope thqat doesn't put a damper on things....hmmm
        We shall see : )
        PS...your idea really does sound great!
        The house is beautiful! Colonial contemporary. Really beautifully done in a beautiful setting just ten minutes from my house.

         

         

         

        "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

         how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

        http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

         

        1. Piffin | Aug 09, 2007 12:10am | #29

          Sounds like the right time to get that fifteen-twenty thousand deposit to fit her into the schedule. 

           

          Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

        2. reinvent | Aug 09, 2007 01:16am | #31

          What Gene suggested is worth looking into. But that aside I would say (based on your new info) $1,500 LF. Heck a professional spray finish is gona run you $4 to $6K for an 18' 'desk'.And then there is the rush charge. Add at least 10% to the total. Seriously!
          If you do good work and can crank it out relatively fast, then they have to pay.

          1. andybuildz | Aug 09, 2007 03:26am | #33

            Thanks re..
            Funny thing is...I spent more than a full day on this estimate.
            Got there at 8:25 a.m. Measured everything out...took photographs.
            Came back home to my office. Made phone calls to my electrical sub, drywall sub all the supply houses for current prices.
            Drew out some sketches to go by and figure it all out.
            Then wrote it all up.
            Called the customer a cpl of times to verify some incidentals.
            Last call to her around 5:15 to give her the price on the phone and to let her know I was also sending her a follow up to the phone call with an Email of the proposal we just spoke about.
            She told me she's getting two other estimates which the contractors have to call my wife to get them in (she's their selling agent).
            The woman gave the other two contractors my wife's # yesterday. Neither has called her yet for an appt.
            She wants this done yesterday as I said.
            I was there the same day..got back to her the same day via phone and with an email.
            Can't be any more efficient than that.
            Basements gonna run her almost $34000
            Then theres the painting and some French doors.
            I kept the cabs on hold till we meet in person.
            Not looking to waste anymore time than I may have.
            I figure the cab estimate will take quite a long time being she has no plans.
            Let her see how I work up till this point...let me get the job before I waste anymore time.
            I made several suggestions about the cabs..she's kind of clueless and I know I woke her up to some thoughts about it.
            She admitted the cabs she had in the photo she sent me served her purpose and she knew they were more functional than works of art.She's looking for functional works of art now.
            I told her that, that's all I'm capable of.
            I can't allow my self to do substandard work at this point in my illustrious career...lol
            So lets see where it goes now.
            I'd really enjoy doing her job and I know they can afford me. Not sure how they spend their money however after looking at that picture of those last cabs she had made...ugh...
            I have such a headache after spending all day on that.
            Feels like I'm starting all over again....and not getting paid for estimates...hate that!
            I also hate giving written estimates which she didn't ask for btw...that was my idea this time.
            I figure I have more to gain than to loose,
            She has my web site and she says she loves the work she sees in it.
            The end of my proposal I added a few personal notes as to how I feel about being a builder. That no job is "just" another job to me.
            That its more about creating conscious well thought out and executed work rather than a production line of work.
            we shall see ~
            I think people price shop more than anything else now a days but in the event I get a thoughtful buyer.......

             

             

             

            "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

             how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

            http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

             

          2. reinvent | Aug 09, 2007 04:00am | #38

            You should get some copy's of the Taunton's 'Idea Book's' and show them to her. Will help her to zero in on the type and style she likes. then you will be able to give a more accurate estimate.
            BTW I would'nt get to involved with the quote. We will tell you what to charge.;-)

          3. andybuildz | Aug 09, 2007 04:09am | #39

            BTW I would'nt get to involved with the quote. We will tell you what to charge.;-) <<<
            Funny...LOLOL
            And I ain't givin' her any more free ideas unless she signs up.
            I always get the feeling I should have charged less but in my older age I know better. I've learned to hold the line. how many times do we underestimate our time? Most of the time...lol.
            Problem is so do a lot of new contractors that drop their prices cuz they don't trust their instincts and little experiance...ugh.
            Free estimates...grrrrr

             

             

             

            "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

             how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

            http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

             

      3. vintage1 | Aug 08, 2007 09:55pm | #27

        Gene,

        Not trying to hijack here but.....

        Would you care to share some of your tricks and/or sources for your pre engineered/prefinished materials.

        I have seen some of your threads on the RTA cabs and remember a debate about CNC parts, so maybe all the info has already been stated.

        I have built several bookcases, kitchen pantry shelving units and even cabs for a bar.  Every time I do, I always think that there has to be a better way.  Last project was my best effort; purchasing all the cab doors from Walzcraft. 

        I know some will suggest to sub it to cabinet shops, but I enjoy being able to offer that built-in or custom feature for my clients.  I also really like the idea of getting in and out in only a couple of days and having no finish work to do would be great.  I have sworn off ever painting any cab/bookcase again- that is a real time loser for me.

        Thanks.

  10. CAGIV | Aug 08, 2007 07:17pm | #25

    Not that prices in Kansas are going to help a guy in RI all that much..... but around here start to finish including install probably 9-10k, any electrical work like seen under the cabinets or built in lighting not included.

    You know better then asking a bunch of guys on the internet though... I'd go with your normal routine for how many hours plus material, add in a PITA factor for installation & extra time spent in construction.  

    I would say your hourly rate should be higher for this kind of work then it is for a typical remodel, probably around 20-25%?

    I can hire carpenters to remodel bathrooms around here for 18-20/hr plus benifits.

    A good custom cabinet maker is going to be closer to $25

    Team Logo

  11. User avater
    Jeff_Clarke | Aug 09, 2007 05:37am | #42

    Need an architect?  ;o)

    Jeff

    1. andybuildz | Aug 09, 2007 06:03am | #43

      eventually...but not for this. Although...who knows..we shall see.
      I've learned not to get my hopes up lately.
      Jus' keep pluggin' away.
      Thanks dude...

       

       

       

      "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

       how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

      http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

       

      1. Lansdown | Aug 09, 2007 06:21am | #44

        Need a middleman ;-)

        1. andybuildz | Aug 09, 2007 06:23am | #45

          Need a middleman ;-) <<apparently I need something...

           

           

           

          "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

           how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

          http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

           

          1. Lansdown | Aug 09, 2007 06:27am | #46

            Remember the joke about the Jew, the Pole and the Italian carpenter at the Pearly gates.

          2. andybuildz | Aug 09, 2007 07:54am | #47

            yeh...but I forget it...go ahead

             

             

             

            "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

             how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

            http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

             

  12. User avater
    Gene_Davis | Aug 13, 2007 05:25am | #54

    Here's an example, Andy, of the model-to-reality software I am working with lately.

    It's eCabinets, the software is free from Thermwood, the company that sells CNC routers.

    An eCab user "built" this bookcase using the software.  The presentation view seen was used to get the client's OK.

    View Image

    The software provides the user with a completely detailed cutting list for all parts, or it shoots instructions straight to a Thermwood CNC router for the parts to be precision cut on the table.

    Here it is, finished.

    View Image

    And four different shops, all with Thermwood CNC and eCabs, that might be able to make it happen for you.

    • ProCab, Woodridge, 800-240-2226
    • TuranVesta, Staten Island, 718-815-8255
    • AssociatedFabrication, Brooklyn, 718-387-3430
    • PeconicRiverWoodworking, Calverton, 631-727-1702
    1. andybuildz | Aug 13, 2007 07:13am | #55

      Wowwwww..thats pretty cool Gene!! I most definatly will play around with that for the future. Looks incredable! Thanks mucho. Putting those sites in my Favorites list.I have a sneaking suspicion this lady is price shopping. So far she's gotten a number from of all people a guy that mainly does painting?? Geezzz...and another guy that leaves messages that go something like:"I ain't got no time to go over there...I have granite guy comin' to my job to look things over for me, I'll get there sometime soon"...HUH? Real professional sounding...lol.I know this cause they have to leave my wife messages as she's the liaison between the customer and the guy they're buying the house from.

      So much for me being so punctual and concise. Go figga.I have a real good plan in place and ready to employ when I get back from California in a  cpl of weeks...I might even start a thread about it. first...I made this frame to put out in front of the house when I get back from Ca.Second..I have jumbo full color glossy postcards I'm mailing out to my target clientle in this hood with my Tipi logo nd a cpl of befores and afters and phone and web siteetc etcFinished fluting the 1 x for the columns..assemled it all but the sign stand still needs a drop more work..need to make some more mahogany molding for the base of the legs etc etc.

      Thanks again gene...goes appreciated!!

      View Image

       

       

       

      "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

       how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

      http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

       

    2. andybuildz | Aug 13, 2007 07:23am | #56

      Oh..one other thing Gene. Did you make the cabs or have them shop made?
      How'd it work out price wise?
      And is there much of a learning curve to that software.
      I found and saved the site but haven't really looked at it much yet.
      Lots of information in there it looks like.

       

       

       

      "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

       how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

      http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

       

      1. User avater
        Gene_Davis | Aug 13, 2007 02:37pm | #57

        Andy, that bookcase job I showed you in a Sketchup rendering, was done by the guy that had the job using a stack of purchased ply, pine boards, and a scratch pad and calculator.  I offered my services to him as the CAD intermediary, but he declined.

        It woulda been less cost to buy out the components, CNC cut.

        If this bookcase job of yours has any legs left (sounds like it may not), the best way for you to analyze things is to contact one or more of those local shops with Thermwood routers, and see what they can do for you.  Use the photos in my post as a discussion-starter.

        In the biz of doing custom built-ins, and kitchens and bathrooms, I like to consider myself as the design-build GC, who takes the client from concept to finish.  I'll use software like SU and eCabs as much as possible, and ALWAYS buy versus make.

        It's simple economics.  You can simply turn more jobs doing it this way.  Just consider the time you expend waiting for clearcoat finishes to cure, going and picking up ply and lumber, etc.  Why bother?  The client is paying you for you ability to FINISH IT PER THE CONCEPT, not to play teamster and painter, or to sweep up sawdust.

        I just worked up a price for someone that has a kitchen cab gut and all-new scope, the new design calling for a package of 16 carcases, with 13 drawerboxes and 30 doors.  Total cost of materials, with the fronts all prefinished, all hardware, inbound freight, etc., is around $3K.  How much shop time would you expend to build and finish a job like that?

         

        1. andybuildz | Aug 13, 2007 04:05pm | #58

          I like that a lot Gene. Too bas my SU skills aren't up to par. I really should get more involved with it. I even bought the book 3D Construction Modeling by Dennis Taki with the video. Not bad really but it does take quite a bit of time as you're well aware of. I did start with it but got all involved in finishing this house and pretty much forgot most of what I learned.
          I'm going to check the other free software from Thermwood and see if its any easier.
          I do agree that the CNC E way most definitely has it's niche once you have it all down....especially for people like the people with that basement job...price shoppers.I'm going to read that site tonight and look it all over and try to absorb it.As far as the kitchen cabs you described. I'd venture to guess it might be about two days in the shop putting them all together between drilling for hinges (unless they come pre drilled as well)assembly and delivery.
          Thanks again Gene. Something I'm most definitely going to explore.

           

           

           

          "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

           how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

          http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

           

          1. User avater
            Gene_Davis | Aug 13, 2007 04:25pm | #60

            I'll photograph a kitchen today, put together from a components kit and installed a couple weeks ago, not yet c'topped.  Post with pic to follow.

            And no, I'm not like Larry King.  That's our grandson I'm holding, pic taken on the ferry ride from Essex, NY, to Charlotte, VT.

             

          2. andybuildz | Aug 13, 2007 04:40pm | #61

            That's our grandson I'm holding, pic taken on the ferry ride from Essex, NY, to Charlotte, VT.<<<Hmmm..I might have taken that ferry last Thanksgiving. My daughter Niko and her husband...his family has owned this property for generations on Lake Champlain. Lots of little houses on the property that brothers, aunts, uncles, cousins etc own. they have get togethers there in the summer...for generations. Its "gorgous" right on the lake. We spent last Thanksgiving there while Niko was pregnant. Its in Chazy NY? Took the ferry accross to Vermont to spend the day cruising around and hiking in some mtns there. Surprised I didn't see you...lol.

             

             

             

            "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

             how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

            http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

             

          3. User avater
            Gene_Davis | Aug 13, 2007 05:51pm | #62

            Andy, they opened the mountain for skiing before T'giving last year.

            There is only one place to find me once that happens.

            Chazy and West Chazy are way up the lake from Plattsburgh, and the Essex-Charlotte ferry crossing is way down from P'burgh.

          4. andybuildz | Aug 14, 2007 01:48am | #63

            Andy, they opened the mountain for skiing before T'giving last year.There is only one place to find me once that happens.<<Right before I left last TG I looked at all the ski places with 45 min of Chazy but didn't notice anything with snow yet...at least not enough to make it worth my while but come this year maybe I'll meet you somewhere for a long weekend of skiing. I missed out on the entire last season...wahhhhhhhhhh.
            Swooosshhhhhhhhhhh : )

             

             

             

            "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

             how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

            http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

             

        2. andybuildz | Aug 13, 2007 04:08pm | #59

          PS..just looked at your profile to see where you're located.
          New grandkid I see?? Can't imagine you're like Larry King and still making babies...lol.
          I'm on my way to San Fran to see my first Thursday.

           

           

           

          "the most amazing buddhist prayer song I have ever heard during my trip through the hidden mystique countries like Nepal and India. I've heard it playing everywhere in Kathmandu - buses, ashrams, hotels,streets, etc... "author unknown

           how it sounds^-->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2shskL0AYuE

          http://WWW.CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM                                 

           

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