Estimate each activity's duration and cost

a. Using the web and other sources, find costs for various items. For example, you can calculate the concrete paver path area in square feet, multiply that by the cost for each 12 in. x 12 in. paver. Document your cost/time source(s)!

b. Use all four of the estimating techniques. Three-point estimating can be quite useful for duration estimates.

c. For self-performed construction, you can drive four (4) stainless steel screws into boards per minute.

d. Sum the costs for your activities and include 15 percent more for contingencies.

PROVIDE REFERENCES for sources used in your explanation.

Planning your project:

Building department

Confirm building/zoning area

Establish designs for renovation

Bring designs to building department

Receive building permits

Get referrals, do research, check references - Obtain estimates

Establish/Hire contractors

Establish Bill of material

Confirm if there are restrictions

Building A Deck:

Lay out plastic to prevent weeds

Lay out gravel on top of plastic

Treat any exposed wood

Build Deck

Paint Deck

Building a Pond:

Install shallow plastic lined pond

Install rock ledge style waterfall

Install irrigation connection

Inspection of the complete project

Complete final walk through of project

Ensure all area are within spec

Ensure all areas meet permit requirements

Look for any defaults or incomplete work

Address issues with contractors

Confirm all issues are fixed

Final touches and clean up