Drainage Instalation

[JS Landscaping]

Any of you guys do Drainage Instalation? Ive been looking into expanding my services to include this, and it seems like it would be very profitable, with all of this rain and the usual spring melt off here in NY. If you guys could give me any information on drainage instalation and your thoughts and opinions on this I would greatly apreciate it. Thanks in advance


James Soutar
JS LANDSCAPING

[Ric]

JS

It can be a big subject to cover. But start with the down spout underground drain systems sold at Home Cheapo. Do a search on the net for "FRENCH DRAINS" or "DRY WELLS". Drainage is a matter common sense and a little experience in most cases. How a Level to shoot grades with is very helpful. Under standing Infiltration rates and subterraneous layering effects can also be helpful.

Some times a good aeration will help percolation of drain turf areas

[Phil Nilsson]

Any of you guys do Drainage Instalation?

Yes, we did plenty of it but it's "now and again work" and your better off focusing on high repeat or reg installs.

[JS Landscaping]

Thanks for the help guys, I went to a tec school in highschool for heavy equipment operation and repair, so im very familiar with setting grades and using a transit. But the one thing I wasnt taught in school was how to price for it. Do you price it by the hour or by the foot? And what are some prices to base myself apon. Thanks again guys

JS Landscaping

[Ric]

J S

There are two basic types of estimating that really work. Formula and Cost. Cost is never the wrong way to estimate. Only mistake most people make is thinking they can do the job faster than they actually can. You must take all factors into account including Office over head and advertising. Maintenance of equipment and depreciation of Equipment should also be included in a cost estimate as wells Sales time. Add in a Fudge Figure for unexpected problems and then final add a percentage of Profit.

Once you have done this a few times you can come with a cost per Foot or Per Plant or what ever. These costs per item are then used as multiplier to do Formula Estimating because it is quicker. Use your own costs for formula estimating. If you use the other guys formula figures you can go wrong. By knowing your costs you can be competitive on your prices without losing money. Or you can turn down jobs that will lose you money. The Larger you get the more important proper estimating can be to your survival.