Know what your project should cost — before you call a contractor

Asphalt Driveway Calculator

$100–$220 per ton (mix + paving)

State prices: TX, CA, OH

Roof Replacement

$3.50–$8.00 per sq ft installed

State prices: TX, CA, OH

Fence Installation

$14.00–$45.00 per linear ft installed

State prices: TX, CA, OH

Bathroom Remodel

$7,000–$25,000 per full remodel (5×8 ft, mid-range)

State prices: TX, CA, OH

Kitchen Remodel

$15,000–$50,000 per full remodel (12×12 ft, mid-range)

State prices: TX, CA, OH

HVAC Replacement

$5,000–$13,000 per central system (3-ton, installed)

State prices: TX, CA, OH

Window Replacement

$325–$1,200 per standard double-hung window, installed

State prices: TX, CA, OH

Siding Installation

$4.00–$11.00 per sq ft installed

State prices: TX, CA, OH

Flooring Installation

$4.00–$12.00 per sq ft installed (mid-range LVP)

State prices: TX, CA, OH

When Is the Best Time to Replace Siding? (Seasonal Pricing Guide)

Book in late fall or winter for bids 5-15% below peak, or spring and early fall for reliable install weather; vinyl siding runs $3.50-$17 per sq ft installed.

DIY vs. Contractor: Which Home Projects Are Worth Doing Yourself?

DIY fence and LVP flooring saves 40-50% because labor is about half the installed price; roofs and HVAC are contractor jobs for safety, insurance, warranty, and licensing reasons.

What Permits Do Home Improvement Projects Require? (Homeowner's Guide)

Fees run $150-$800: structural work needs a permit, same-size window or fence swaps usually do not, but HVAC replacement almost always does, and your contractor should pull it.

How Long Does an HVAC System Last? (Replacement Timing and Costs)

ACs last 15-20 years, furnaces 20-30. Replace rather than repair once a quote tops 50% of a new system and yours is past 10 years; replacements run $5,000-$16,500 installed.

How Many Boxes of Flooring Do I Need? (Waste Factor Explained)

Measure your rooms, add 5-10% for cuts and waste, then divide by box coverage: most LVP boxes cover 20-24 sq ft, and 500 sq ft needs about 22-29 boxes.

How Many Squares of Shingles Do I Need? (Roof Measuring Guide)

Multiply your home's footprint by the roof pitch factor (1.05-1.41), divide by 100, add 10% waste. A typical 1,800 sq ft home needs 20-22 squares.