📖 Overview
This calculator reveals true DIY economics by adding sweat equity and mistake risk to cash materials spend.
It reports effective hourly payoff and total cost decision verdict.
🧪 Example Scenarios
Use these default and higher-pressure example inputs to explore how sensitive this calculator is before using your real numbers.
| Input | Base Case | Higher Pressure Case |
|---|---|---|
| Contractor Quote ($) | 14,500 | 16,675 |
| DIY Materials Plus Tool Rental Cost ($) | 7,200 | 8,640 |
| Your Hourly Time Value ($) | 45 | 54 |
| Estimated DIY Hours | 80 | 96 |
| Mistake Multiplier (%) | 20 | 24 |
⚙️ How It Works
This calculator applies a direct math model based on the inputs above.
💡This calculator is scenario-based. Better input quality leads to better decision quality.
Quick Reference
| Input | Example Value |
|---|---|
| Contractor Quote ($) | 14500 |
| DIY Materials Plus Tool Rental Cost ($) | 7200 |
| Your Hourly Time Value ($) | 45 |
| Estimated DIY Hours | 80 |
| Mistake Multiplier (%) | 20 |
When To Use This
- Use this tool when you need a fast decision during active planning or execution.
- Use this before committing money, time, or tradeoffs that are hard to reverse.
- Use this to compare options using the same assumptions across scenarios.
Edge Cases To Watch
- Results can be misleading if key inputs are missing, stale, or unrealistic.
- Very small or very large values may amplify rounding effects and interpretation risk.
- If assumptions change mid-decision, recalculate before acting.
Practical Tips
💡 Validate units before comparing scenarios.
💡 Run multiple values to understand sensitivity.
💡 Use outputs as estimates, not guarantees.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is this output exact?
It is a fast estimate based on provided inputs and model assumptions.
❓ Can I compare different scenarios?
Yes, this tool is designed for quick side-by-side checks.