When we first get into a conversation about pricing for new bleachers, there are several important factors that need to be considered. As a starting point, it's crucial to understand that a wide range of bleacher configurations can be designed and built to meet specific client needs. However, one of the most critical aspects to discuss early in the process is the available footprint or space where the bleachers will be installed.
The footprint directly impacts the size and design of the bleacher system, including the number of rows and seating capacity. It's essential to have accurate measurements and a clear understanding of any site constraints, such as existing structures, property lines, or accessibility requirements. By establishing the available space upfront, we can ensure that the proposed bleacher solution is feasible and meets the client's expectations.
To accurately assess the seating requirements and provide a budgetary estimate for a bleacher project, we need to gather crucial information about the site and the customer's expectations.
Site Considerations:
- Open Field or Indoor Setting: Understanding the environment helps determine space constraints and potential obstructions.
- Existing Bleacher Replacement: If replacing an existing bleacher, we need to know its dimensions and seating capacity to propose a suitable alternative.
- Concrete Pad Availability: The presence of a concrete pad affects the installation process and cost.
- Obstructions: Identifying any light standards, buildings, dugouts, or fences helps optimize the layout and avoid conflicts.
- Available Footprint: Knowing the precise length and depth of the available space allows us to calculate the maximum number of rows and seats per row.
Calculating Seating Capacity:
- Rows: The depth of the space determines the number of rows, considering a standard 24 inches per row.
- Seats Per Row: The length of the space, divided by 1.5 feet (standard seat width), gives the number of seats per row.
- Total Seats: Multiplying the number of seats per row by the number of rows provides an estimated gross seating capacity.
An Example:
For a space with a depth of 20 feet (approximately 10 rows) and a length of 127.5 feet (approximately 85 seats per row), the estimated gross seating capacity would be 850 seats.
Budgetary Discussions:
Once we have a rough estimate of the seating capacity, we can initiate high-level budgetary discussions with the customer.
Key Questions:
- Available Funds: Understanding the customer's budget helps tailor the proposal accordingly.
- Spending Expectations: Aligning expectations with the available budget ensures a realistic project scope.
- Additional Features: Depending on the budget, we can discuss additional features like vertical pickets, custom rises, or fully closed decks.
Scaling Back:
If the customer's budget is limited, we can suggest scaling back certain features or exploring alternative options to meet their needs.
By engaging in open and transparent communication about the project's requirements, site considerations, and budgetary constraints, we can guide the customer towards a bleacher solution that meets their needs and aligns with their financial resources.
Once we have the basic layout and available footprint calculations taken into account, our team can then work directly with you to design and build a bleacher system that meets your specific needs and budget.