A carpenter is preparing a cost estimate for a residential deck project. The client has requested a cedar deck measuring 4.8 m x 3.6 m. The estimate needs to include materials, labour, and a 15% contingency. The material cost for cedar decking and framing is estimated at $85.00 per square metre, and labour is estimated at $65.00 per hour. If the project is expected to take 30 hours to complete, what is the total estimated cost, including the contingency?

Question: A carpenter is preparing a cost estimate for a residential deck project. The client has requested a cedar deck measuring 4.8 m x 3.6 m. The estimate needs to include materials, labour, and a 15% contingency. The material cost for cedar decking and framing is estimated at $85.00 per square metre, and labour is estimated at $65.00 per hour. If the project is expected to take 30 hours to complete, what is the total estimated cost, including the contingency?

Answer options:

• $3067.80
• $3548.70 ✅ $3901.80
• $4095.30

Correct answer: $3901.80

Explanation: First, calculate the deck area: 4.8 m * 3.6 m = 17.28 m². Then calculate material cost: 17.28 m² * $85.00/m² = $1468.80. Labour cost is 30 hours * $65.00/hour = $1950.00. The subtotal is $1468.80 + $1950.00 = $3418.80. Finally, add the 15% contingency: $3418.80 * 1.15 = $3901.62. Option C is the closest correct answer when rounded.