Know before you build
Every project starts with the same questions: how much material, what will it cost, and is it worth doing right. Our calculators answer with numbers from university extension services and manufacturer specs — sources on the methodology page.
Mulch calculator
Beds measured, depth by mulch type, answer in cubic yards and bags — with the depth guidance extension services actually publish.
Measure mulchTopsoil calculator
Lawn topdressing or new beds, in cubic yards and truckloads, with honest depth ranges for each job.
Measure topsoilBoard foot calculator
Lumber math done right, including the nominal-versus-actual trap that throws off every first-timer.
Count board feetDeck board calculator
Boards, gaps, and waste factor for your deck's real dimensions — and a straight read on when to call a pro.
Plan deck boardsFence calculator
Posts, rails, pickets, and concrete bags per post hole, with the depth rules extension services publish.
Plan a fenceDeck stain calculator
Gallons by area, coats, and wood condition, using coverage rates from the manufacturers' own spec sheets.
Estimate stainGravel calculator
Cubic yards and tons by stone type — density shown as the honest range suppliers actually publish.
Measure gravelPaver calculator
Paver count plus the base gravel and bedding sand underneath, from manufacturer install guides.
Plan a patioRetaining wall calculator
Block count, base trench guidance, and the height where manufacturers say to hire an engineer.
Plan a wallProject ROI checker
What a remodel or yard project returns at resale, from the published national remodeling data — before you spend.
Check the returnFrench drain calculator
Trench, gravel, pipe, and the fall you need — the fix for the yard that turns into a lake.
Plan the drainDehumidifier size calculator
Pints per day for your space from the official Energy Star table — with the 2019 rating change decoded.
Size it rightElectrification rebate checker
Federal HEAR rebate caps by income tier, including the 2026 rule changes most guides missed.
Check rebatesHeat pump water heater payback
When the efficient water heater pays back its premium, from Energy Star data and current electricity rates.
Estimate paybackWhy trust these numbers?
Because we show where every one comes from. The methodology page cites each constant to a university extension service, a manufacturer spec sheet, or an industry standard, and where published sources disagree we show you the disagreement instead of hiding it. Estimates get labeled as estimates.
Structural work has one more rule: building codes and site conditions vary. Confirm post depths, footings, and wall heights with your local permit office before you dig.