Comparing Quotes when Renovating or Building a Bowling Green

There’s a common saying when it comes to comparing quotes….

“Make sure you’re comparing apples with apples.”

We say this often to the clubs who come to us for advice. Unfortunately, this usually occurs after the construction has taken place and we are approached to remedy the situation.

These issues occur most often when decisions are made on price alone.

Here are some key questions you need to ask before making a final decision on your quotations:

1. Does the sales person offer options to work with current infrastructure and club budget to achieve design outcome? What can be salvaged, reused, repurposed?
2. Does your sales person take into consideration other works happen around your club or future of the clubs construction or infrastructure plans? This is important to ensure it does not cost your club more money later to fix areas that do not flow with future plans.
3. What services outside of bowling green construction is offered? Ie concrete surrounds, turfing (real or artificial).
4. How much is outsourced to subcontractors and how much is constructed using trained and expert staff?
5. Base build up depths – this is imperative to ensure longevity and structural integrity of your bowling green base. This is where much of the investment will go however it is also the most expensive to fix if you don’t invest well in the first instance.
6. Do you have CAD drawings to show construction methodology – you need to see exactly what is being installed so you know what is NOT included in your quotation. It’s what’s missing that may cost your club later.
7. Drainage layout – what type of drainage system do you use and why – this is imperative to ensure the green remains playable as soon as possible post heavy rains and for longevity of the surface. Plumbing diameter must have the ability to remove the water from the sub-grade efficiently.
8. Drainage – how many drains are they installing? – this also impacts cost and can reduce investment however this is one area that can also cause the greatest cost in repairs if too few drains are installed.
9. What is your base construction methodology – Bonded or non-bonded and why. Ensure this is the right type of system for your soil type. There are many advantages and disadvantages of both styles so be aware of them all to guarantee longevity of your base.

Surface

1. What surface are you choosing and why? Understand the pros and cons of all surfaces along with price, maintenance costs, functionality (is it comfortable to be on and does it scratch or damage the bowls?)
2. Density of products – underly and surface. The lighter the density, the cheaper the cost however you will reduce longevity, increased size of weave, lower UV rating for outdoor greens.
3. Irrigation – does your surface require irrigation (watering) as this will add to the ongoing costs of both time and water. 

Maintenance Schedule and Warranties

1. What is the maintenance regime for the initial 12 month workmanship warranty?
2. Will you have a clear greens maintenance manual for independent maintenance?
3. What must be avoided to ensure your surface warranty is not voided? For example, specific types of product and vacuums can damage the carpet and will void your warranty.

Post Construction

1. Does the company answer the phone as often post construction for questions as they do to win your job? Conduct due diligence from previous clients of the company to ensure you have support post construction.
2. What is the companies history of showing up to repair warranty claims? It pays to ask previous clients this question.

If you would like to explore this topic further or talk through any of your quotation questions, please reach out to Craig Moore on 0429 349 424 or get in touch with our team.