How Much Does Stocking a Pond Cost?

Whether you’re thinking about digging a pond for fishing or you currently have one in the backyard, stocking a pond is an option to consider if you want to stock it full of freshwater fish.

Reflections on a pond by cobaltfish, on Flickr
Reflections on a pond” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  cobaltfish

How much does stocking a pond cost?

The cost of stocking a pond will greatly depend on the company you choose, the size of the fish, how many you purchase at once and the type of fish you want to stock.  With a variety of fish to choose from, refer to our chart below to see what you may have to budget for:

Type of FishAverage Price
Black Crappie$1 each
Channel Catfish$0.50 each
Coppernose Bluegill$0.50 each
Fathead Minnows$12 per pound
Grass Carp$6 each
Hybrid Bluegill$0.50 each
Hybrid Striped Bass$2 to $4 each
Koi$10
Largemouth Bass (3-4 inches)$1.50 to $3.50 each
Redear Bream$0.60 each
Walleyes$3 each
Yellow Perch$1.50 to $3

NOTE:  Many suppliers will have a minimum order requirement before they confirm the order.  From what we researched, most ask you purchase 25 to 50 at a time before you can receive the prices mentioned above.

At Dunn’s Fish Farm, for instance, they list the prices of their fingerling fish for both ponds and lakes on this list.  250 to 300 fathead minnows cost $10.95 per pound, while a six to eight-inch largemouth bass can cost $350 per 100.  Refer to their list to see what these fish could cost at an actual fish farm.

What are the extra costs?

A delivery fee may apply if you don’t meet the minimum order requirements and need the fish delivered.  This can cost an additional $2 to $4 per mile.  Freight charges, if being shipped from an online provider, will depend upon the number of fish being shipped.

A bagging charge can cost $1.50 to $2 per bag.

State permits may be required, depending on where you live.  Refer to your state’s regulations to see what you’re responsible for.

Stocking the fish is only the beginning if you don’t have a pond already.  For the perfect pond site, according to Field and Stream, you should be prepared to pay $3,000 to $5,000 per acre with permitting and dam building included.  Beyond the architecture, however, the fish can set you back up to $500 per acre for baby bass and another $15,000, at a minimum, for the excavation and permits.  By the time you throw in the necessities, you will max out at $25,000 for a pond.

Tips to know:

At most fish farms, from what we witnessed most offer largemouth bass, bluegills, sunfish, catfish, minnows, carp, koi and crappie.  These tend to be the standard species available for your average backyard pond.

Availability will vary, depending on the species.  While some are available year-round, some fish, such as bass may be seasonal.

Always check your Ph levels before stocking your pond.  A Ph of 6.0 will naturally hold the fish; however, it should be closer to 7.0 to 8.0 for optimal results.  Also, the temperature, according to SuttleFish.com, should be at 60 degrees or lower.  The best time to ship bluegill, minnows and catfish is during the winter season, from November to early April, while bass should be stocked in June and July.

The recommended pond and lake stocking rates will depend on the condition of your pond, the climate in the area and the pond owner’s goals.  It will also depend on the size of fish desired, how the fish are being transported and if the pond has existing fish.  With this information, a reputable fish farm will be able to create a fish stocking plan.

How can I save money?

The more you purchase at once, the more you can save with most suppliers.

How Much Does an Attic Ladder Installation Cost?

Foldaway stairs, also known as pull-down folding stairs, are designed to make it easier to access your attic.

These units come completely framed with a folding, sectional ladder, which is designed to be installed inside of a ceiling opening.

ladder, front view by Birdies100, on Flickr
ladder, front view” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  Birdies100

How much does attic ladder installation cost?

The cost of installing an attic ladder will depend on the complexity of the setup, where you live, the ceiling height and who you hire.  For example, if you already have an existing setup and your ladder needs to simply be replaced, it could cost $300 to $450 as long as no modifications need to be done.  This is the price range for the typical folding or rigid ladder.

If you carpenter or handyman has to open up a wall to provide a slope or build a ladder into the wall due to space, then the costs could increase to $450 to $750.

In extreme cases, if the carpenter or handyman has to modify the floor joists or trusses, then the costs could increase to more than $1,500 to $2,500+

In the end, for a new attic ladder, plan on spending $100 to $200 for the ladder and another $250 to $550 for the professional installation.  While most install jobs will be fairly straightforward, it doesn’t hurt to receive multiple quotes from licensed contractors in your area.  At HomeAdvisor.com, for example, you can explain your job and multiple contractors will contact you with free quotes.

DIYorNot.com mentions you can save up to 66 percent if you were to do it yourself, but if you were to hire a professional handyman, then the costs for the average install could be about $657.

Lowe’s, aside from purchasing the attic ladder, has been said to charge $150 for the job.

As for the stairs alone, be prepared to spend $100 to $300, depending on the brand and materials.  Ladders are typically made from an economical wood, steel or lightweight aluminum, with wood often being the cheapest option.

For instance, on Amazon.com, without any professional installation, the top-rated ladders retail for $90 to $240.

At Menard’s, the average attic ladder retails for $85 to $200.




Attic ladder installation overview

Almost all ladder attic installation jobs are either done by a carpenter or handyman, and the estimates above should include removing the existing ladder, installing the new ladder, installing the wood trim and cleaning up the work site.

Unless you’re replacing an older attic ladder, a new ladder, when installed, will need a large hole cut inside of the ceiling and are reinforced with headers without destroying the strength of the joists.  The unit is then bolted into the opening and trimmed with molding and paint to finish the look, allowing it to blend in.

Ceiling heights commonly range from eight to 10 feet, but there’s also a 12-foot model designed for a higher ceiling.

What are the extra costs?

If the contractor had to re-route the air ducts, water pipes and/or remove insulation, then costs could increase depending on the circumstances.

Some may charge an additional fee for painting and/or installing the molding outside of the install.

Tips to know:

Contractors advise against cutting into any roof support trusses unless the design was completed by a structural engineer.  If a handyman or even an experienced carpenter were to cut into the plain attic floor joists improperly without the advice of a structural engineer, then the roof may flatten out, pushing the walls apart.  The normal attic floor joists, even though it may not seems like they are much, still are part of the structural support system for the roof.

If you don’t have a set of stairs yet, then consider your options when choosing a new location.  Ideally, this new room should be easily accessible and often works best in a large room or hallway.

How can I save money?

When getting quotes, some professionals will only quote the install only, not the ladder and install.  With any professional job, always get an itemized estimate before committing.

Try to gather as many quotes as possible to ensure you’re getting the best rate possible.  Aside from the price, also make sure they are licensed, insured and have reputable reviews online.

Some say the job isn’t as hard as it seems, especially if you’re replacing an existing ladder.  This DIY Network guide shows you how to install an attic ladder.

How Much Does Dog Ear Hematoma Surgery Cost?

An ear hematoma are fluid-filled pockets inside of the earflap, and if something were to cause these vessels to rupture, it would start to bleed beneath the skin, forming this fluid-filled pocket.

This condition is commonly seen flappy-eared dogs, but any dog, in general, can get it.

This problem is easy to diagnose, and depending on the scenario, your vet may or may not recommend surgery.

How much does dog ear hematoma surgery cost?

Depending on the severity of the hematoma, your vet and where you live, the entire procedure can cost anywhere from as little as $300 to more than $2,000.

Vetary.com, for example, says the procedure can cost anywhere from $300 to $2,500, depending on the local cost of living and the complexity of your dog’s condition.

On this Reddit.com thread, someone asked if $500 were too much for this procedure, and according to the responses, the results seemed mixed.  One dog owner said his vet recommended the procedure, but it was purely for cosmetic reasons, while another said his vet wouldn’t even consider the surgery unless it was a show-quality dog.

This BabyCenter.com forum thread, one member stated she took her dog to a clinic and was quoted $1,000 to drain and quilt the ear.  Another member, on the same thread, said she was quoted up to $470 to have their dog’s ear drained.

Dog ear hematoma surgery overview

The veterinarian, during your initial visit, will first take a sample of the fluid inside of the swelling using a fine needle to confirm the diagnosis.  In addition to this, your veterinarian will want to dig deeper to know what’s causing this condition.  For example, otitis externa, which is commonly diagnosed alongside this condition, may cause a bad odor near the ear and/or inflammation.  Aside from the needle aspiration, your veterinarian will more than likely run a bacterial culture and other laboratory analyses to determine a beneficial treatment option.  He or she will also inspect the ear canal for any signs of ear mites or a bacterial yeast infection.

The surgical treatment, if your dog were a candidate, would require general anesthesia and an incision, which is created in the injured ear in order to remove the fluid between the skin and auricular cartilage.  Numerous sutures, after the incision has been created, will differ, depending on the extent of the hematoma.  This incision, when the sutures are being placed, won’t enclose the incision; rather, it will remain uncovered to allow the ear to continue to drain.

After the surgery, your veterinarian will put a pressure wrap on the ear to help promote drainage and restrict the fluid from building up.  This pressure wrap will need to stay in place for seven days, and usually, 14 to 21 days later, your veterinarian will ask you to come back so the sutures can be removed.

During the recovery process, your veterinarian will ask that you keep the ear canal cleansed, dried and treated with the medication he or she prescribes.  Your dog will also be required to wear an Elizabethan collar until the sutures are withdrawn.

What are the extra costs?

All veterinarian offices will have different billing practices.  While most combine the bill in one, you may be charged for the additional laboratory testing, pain medication, follow-up visits and/or anesthesia.  It’s important to ask for an itemized bill to know, for certain, what’s included in your finalized payment.

Tips to know:

Dogs, with this condition, will often have a water balloon-like sac in one or even both ears, either partially or completely filled with blood.  The swelling can vary in size, and in some cases, it can even block the ear canal.  If left untreated, the extra weight can cause a permanent change to the shape of the ears and/or create an uncomfortable situation for your dog.  Most dogs will consistently shake their head and/or scratch their ear when there are signs of a hematoma.

How can I save money?

Without any treatment, most of the time, they will resolve on its own; however, that may be problems if you avoid treatment.  First of all, it can cause a lot of pain for weeks; secondly, as the fluid is reabsorbed the by the body, the ear can crinkle up and shrunk down by the scar tissue, resulting in a deformity known as “cauliflower ear.”  In most cases, depending on your dog’s situation, a hematoma may last months if left untreated.

Aside from surgery, another option, which is cheaper is via an aspiration, a process where the blood is drawn from the ear.  But in some cases, one session may not be enough, resulting in multiple visits over time.

How Much Do the ATM Tanks Cost?

ATM tanks, which are created by Acrylic Tank Manufacturing, created unique tanks on the hit TV show, Tanked, a reality hit television show on the Animal Planet.

These tanks, because they are customized,  are much different than the traditional fish tanks you’re used to seeing in a home or doctor’s office.  From an aquarium inside a telephone booth to one that dispenses wine, they claim that if you can dream it, it can become a reality.

Fish Tank by SupportPDX, on Flickr
Fish Tank” (CC BY 2.0) by SupportPDX

How much does a custom ATM fish tank cost?

The costs, since the aquariums can be customized to your liking, can be all over the place.  On this Reddit.com Ask Me Anything page, Wayde King and Brett Raymer, the guys from the actual show, said the costs could be anywhere from as little as $30,000 to more than $300,000+ brand new.  They also mentioned they had build aquariums that cost well into the millions of dollars.  The costs, if you were to hire them, would virtually be endless and highly unique since every aquarium would be different, but if you were to hire these guys, it’s safe to say you would have to budget at least $30,000 to $60,000 to start with something basic and work your way up from there.

Someone on a lasvegasbadger.blogspot.com thread claimed they hired ATM to have an aquarium installed.  Their 250-gallon aquarium, installed inside of the wall, cost them close to $28,000 after installation.

The owner of All Star Wine & Spirits had the television show install a 650-gallon fish tank shaped like a wine bottle, which was higher than 17 feet, for $100,000, according to the timesunion.

In this Tropical Fish Magazine article, they created a 32 foot tall and 11 foot in diameter fish tank for $1.6 million.  This particular fish tank was designed inside of a four-story private home, where the home was built around the aquarium itself.

Tracy Morgan’s at-home shark tank, quite possibly the most popular tank on the show, was reported to cost close to $400,000 to install.  Marshawn Lynch and Dwight Howard’s fish tank would have apparently cost close to $60,000 to build.

Shaq, yet another celebrity who participated on the show, was said to spend $50,000 on his customized aquarium, which weighed close to 3,000 pounds.

ATM fish tanks overview

According to Wayde, the company is known for its “turnkey” process, which includes everything from the fish tank, the stand, all of the woodwork required, the facade, the filters, the pumps, coral inserts, and in some cases, they will even stock the fish.  To date, they are the #1 custom-shaped fish tank manufacturer and will install anywhere in the world.

With a specialized in-house oven, designed to bend acrylic, they can shape virtually any piece into something you desire.  This in-house tool enables them to make tanks as large as you desire and even fit them inside the tightest and most unique shaped spaces.

What are the extra costs?

The costs aren’t done once the tank is built.  As with any aquarium, maintenance and cleaning is required to keep the tank in tip-top shape.  As a daily routine, this can include observing the fish, ensuring the equipment is working, checking the temperatures and topping off the water levels.  Weekly, you will need to wipe down the outside surfaces, scrape the inside glass, shake any debris off the plants and partially change the water.  Each month, water tests for pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate, are crucial to ensure nothing unseen is brewing.  The filters will need to be changed, and in some cases, the light bulbs will need to be replaced, the tubing will need to be cleaned and the filter intake will need to be inspected and cleaned as well.  Depending on the size and complexity of your setup it’s safe to budget $1 per gallon if you were to hire a professional.

Electricity bills, depending on your setup, could increase by the hundreds if your tank was able to hold hundreds of gallons.  As a safe measure, it can cost close to $20 per month per 100 gallons.

Stocking the fish, as time goes on, needs to be considered as well, especially when some of the fish die off.

How Much Does a Bumper Replacement Cost?

Aside from being unsightly, driving around with a damaged bumper often offers the impression the driver is reckless.  It also diminishes the entire value of the vehicle.  Likewise, it puts you and your passengers at risk because a damaged bumper can no longer protect you from minor crashes.

Scratched Paint by daryl_mitchell, on Flickr
Scratched Paint” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by daryl_mitchell

How much does it cost to replace a bumper?

On average, for a total bumper replacement, the costs are going to be anywhere between $500 and $2,500+ for an OEM rear bumper.  While stock bumpers will match the car, some may have to be repainted, and if this is the case, this can cost even more.  The costs, in the end, will depend on the car you’re driving, if it’s an aftermarket part, how complex the bumper is and the company replacing it.

With so many makes and models, we scoured the Internet for prices people paid, primarily from car specific forum threads, for their bumper replacement and included our findings inside the table below:

Make/ModelAverage Price Quoted (for OEM bumper replacement)
Audi A4$1,450
BMW Series 3$2,200
Chevy Impala$1,100
Chevy Malibu$1,450
Ford F150$1,125
Ford Focus$1,150
Honda Accord$1,375
Honda Civic$1,250
Honda Pilot$1,250
Hyundai Elantra$895
Mazda 6$950
Nissan Altima$1,200
Nissan Sentra$950
Toyota Camry$1,650
Toyota Corolla$1,575
Toyota Highlander$950
Toyota Prius$1,150
Toyota RAV4$1,550
Toyota Yaris$950
Volkswagen Golf$1,500

NOTE:  You could lower these prices by purchasing an aftermarket part.

Replacing a bumper overview

Typically, the estimates mentioned should include the parts, labor and sometimes, the painting.

To remove and replace the bumper, it’s a fairly straightforward job.  The old bumper is removed, followed by all of the attached components such as the fog lights, turn signals, license plate and/or bumper trim.  The new bumper is then mounted to the vehicle, followed by reattaching all of the components that were removed initially.  The entire process, when performed by an experienced professional, can take about two to three hours to complete.

What are the extra costs?

Whether you purchase an OEM or aftermarket bumper, there’s still a good chance it will need to be painted to match the rest of your car’s exterior.  Painting it can add another $150 to $450 to the total.

Aside from the replacement, if any parts needed to be replaced, such as the lights, trim, warning system, airbag sensors and/or air intakes, then the costs could greatly increase, sometimes as much as $1,000+.  This is often the case with complex bumpers connected to numerous vehicle systems.

How can I save money?

You could use your auto insurance company, but this will all depend on the final costs and your deductible.  If your estimate was $1,800, but you had a $1,500 deductible, then it would probably make sense to pay the additional $300 to avoid the insurance rate increase and the accident report to CarFax, etc.  However, if you were not at fault, then it’s wise to make a claim against the other party’s insurance.  In this scenario, you would be paid in full with no costs out of pocket or drawbacks.

It is possible to replace your bumper as long as it’s a straightforward replacement and there’s no extensive damage.  The job, according to those who have completed it, claims it’s no worse than replacing a headlight or changing your oil.  If you could perform these repairs, then it’s safe to say you could replace your bumper as well.

An OEM part will always be more than an aftermarket part.  If at all possible, talk with a local mechanic to see if there’s any way to save on the part.  If you’re lucky enough, they may be able to find an older part at a local scrap yard that’s still in good condition.

A new bumper isn’t always the right choice.  If the dent were smaller than average with little to no scratches and/or cracks, then you will be better off having the dent removed rather than replacing the entire part.  This route, if you were a candidate, could cost less than $500 on average.

If the damage isn’t too extreme, consider a car bumper cover.  These covers can cost as little as $30 to $150.

Consider looking on Amazon.com for both the aftermarket part and the professional labor.  We were able to find new bumpers, which matched your car’s paint, for as little as $250.  On top of this, you could hire a reputable mechanic in your area to install it for less than $300, making most replacements less than $600.

How Much Does Bumper Dent Repair Cost?

A car’s bumper, unfortunately, is most prone to a dent.

Whether it’s from backing into something or a fender bender, a bumper dent, most of the time, can be repairs for a lot less than you think.

Howth, Co. Dublin - Ireland by Mic V., on Flickr
Howth, Co. Dublin – Ireland” (CC BY 2.0) by  Mic V.

How much does it cost to fix a rear bumper dent?

Depending on the amount of damage done, the labor involved and the car you drive, the costs can be anywhere from as little as $150 to as much as $600 to repair a dent in a plastic bumper.   These estimates for the dent only and would be much more if there were a deep scratch.

Simple dents that are barely visible and less than one inch should cost less than $150, while a larger dent with a complex system and requires paint, usually found in newer cars, could cost closer to $650 or more.  For example, if the technician had to disconnect lights, warning systems, and cameras, then the labor time could increase, effectively affecting the price.

If the dent had a deep scratch, down to the metal, or a deep crack, then the costs could be much higher, often being as high as $2,500, but in these circumstances, you will more than likely want to replace the bumper entirely.

Inusrance.com, in this car body repair article, said the average cost to repair a dented bumper could be as little as $450 for a repair to as much as $900+ for a replacement.

Western Auto Body, a collision shop located in California, broke down the costs, including parts, paint and labor time.  All in all, their grand total, depending on these factors mentioned, could be $935 to $1,580.

As for a chrome bumper, you’re often out of luck as, most of the time, it can’t be repaired successfully and almost all professionals will recommend a replacement; however, this isn’t always the case.  Depending on the severity of the dent, you may be looking at paying $60 to $120 per hour, with some jobs taking as long as 10 hours to complete.

This Jalopnik.com article, for instance, says a Ford dealership billed $4,138 to replace the dents, taillights and blending the paint.

Type of DentAverage Price
1-inch dent (no paint)$50 to $150
1/8-inch dent (no paint)$50 to $135
2-inch dent (no paint)$80 to $200
12-inch dent (no paint)$175 to $550



What are the extra costs?

In extreme cases, if the dent couldn’t be replaced or they don’t recommend it, then a new bumper may be required.  Depending on the car you drive, a bumper replacement could cost over $1,000 to $2,000.

A paint touch-up job, often times, isn’t included in the estimate.  If the dent had a deep scratch and it was repairable, then you may have to pay another $50 to $80 to fix the scratches.

If any of the lights, sensors, cameras or components were ruined due to the accident, then this could increase the price.  All depending upon the parts, this could be as little as $100 for a fog light to as much as $750+ for a backup camera.

How to remove a small dent

How can I save money?

If the dent is smaller than a quarter, consider buying a small dent removal tool to remove the dent on your own.  For example, many dent pullers on Amazon can cost less than $20.

While no one likes a dent, it is not always a necessary fix, especially if it’s smaller than a quarter.  Determine whether or not the price is really worth it for something that is merely cosmetic in nature.

While car insurance will more than likely cover this claim, it often doesn’t make sense to file one if the repair is less than $1,000.  Even if your repair was $650 and your deductible was $500, it would make sense to pay the additional $150 to save the car premium increases in the future.

How Much Does a Built-In Bookcase Cost?

Unlike a traditional bookshelf that sits in a room taking up space, a built-in bookcase is installed within a wall, as in the picture below.   Built-ins are a great way to provide ample storage and even maximize your space.

The cost of a built-in bookcase will depend on the size, the type of wood being used, the complexity of the job, the contractor if one is hired and other factors.

Bookcase by P.Flintandco, on Flickr
Bookcase” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  P.Flintandco

How much does a custom built-in bookcase cost?

On average, depending on the cost factors mentioned below, the professional installation of a built-in bookcase is going to cost anywhere from $2,500 to as much as $8,000+ or about $150 to $375 per linear foot, sometimes even much more, again, depending on the factors involved.   A lower end straightforward out-of-the-box design with standard grade veneer plywood could cost about $1,500, whereas a customized design with drawers, doors made from oak could cost much more than $6,000.

The estimates given by your contractor should include cutting out the sides, back and the base to create the built-in unit.  The shelving, frame, sanding, paint/stain and adding the trim should be included as well.  Before the job starts, a contractor will be able to help you plan your layout, purchase the materials, prep the area and clean up after the job is done.  These inclusions, however, can vary from one contractor to another, so be sure to get everything in writing before proceeding.

Since this will be a unique job, it’s best to get as many quotes as you can to see what you should be budgeting.  Even if you don’t know where to receive a quote, we highly recommend HomeAdvisor.com to get free quotes from local reputable and licensed contractor.  It’s free to use and you could receive quotes in minutes.

Factors that affect the cost

Accessories

If you want to add accessories to your book shelving, aside from the shelves, such as drawers, cabinets, molding, a coat of paint, doors and/or windows, then this can add to the overall costs.  If any of these accessories were larger than the standard size, then more labor could be involved, depending on the scope.

Construction

Bookshelves can either be created by a pre-made kit, semi-custom kit and can be done as a 100 percent customized job.  As with anything, a custom job will be much more than a kit in a box.

Design and size

The complexity of the design and size are considerations to consider.  This can include the height, depth, and width, plus any awkward details such an arch or unique header.  Larger sizes mean more materials and labor.

Labor

Local labor fees, if you were to hire a contractor, will affect the pricing as well.  The type of labor can affect the price, too.  For example, a handyman can cost less than an experienced carpenter.

Materials

Built-in bookshelves can be made by a variety of materials, including birch, douglas fir and plywood, and each type will vary in price.  Veneer plywood, often the cheapest option, is recommended because the softer woods, such as pine, won’t sag over time.  Oak, a premium material consideration, can be up to two times more than the veneer plywood.

Setup

If a contractor needs to remove molding, flooring and/or parts of the ceiling, then the costs can start to raise, depending on the complexity of the factors already mentioned.

Stain vs. paint

Some contractors won’t include the stain/paint in the final quote.  Custom colors and/or more than one color could increase the costs as well.

What are the extra costs?

The standard built-in bookshelf is usually eight feet tall, but if you were to raise the height, the costs could increase by more than 30 percent.

Adding paint to the trim and/or shelving can be another few hundred dollars, depending on the size.

Avoid choosing a softer wood as it can sag over the years.

Installing lighting can be an additional $50 to $150 per light.

Adding a door can be an additional $200 to $400, but glass doors can be about 50 percent more.

For every drawer, plan on spending $100 to $200.

Some homeowners opt to install an electric fireplace into the shelving, which can increase the costs by $500 to $1,500+, depending on the fireplace setup.

Tips to know:

Pay close attention to the wood you plan on using to ensure the shelving can hold the weight being placed on it.

How can I save money?

If using a handyman, you may be able to save money if you combine other household projects at the same time.

When hiring a contractor, always make sure you get at least three to five quotes before proceeding.  When hiring, always make sure the professional is licensed, insured and has a positive rating online.

How Much Does a Bucket Truck Rental Cost?

The bucket truck is a mobile working platform commonly used to maintain and install traffic lights, signs, telephone lines and cable lines.  It can also help trim tall trees along the highways and other jobs that require aerial lifts.

AT&T Bucket Truck by JeepersMedia, on Flickr
AT&T Bucket Truck” (CC BY 2.0) by  JeepersMedia

How much does a bucket truck rental cost?

The cost of renting a bucket truck will depend on the truck you’re driving, the company, the working height, the geographical location and time you need it.  The largest pricing factor, most of the time, will be the height limit.  The higher its height limit is, the higher the price will probably be.  Bucket trucks can offer aerial lifts that range from 34 to over 100 feet.

On average, plan on budgeting at least $350 to $850 per day to rent a bucket truck.

For instance, a 40-foot lift could be around $350 to $450 per day, while a 60-foot truck could be around $600 to $800 per day.  As a rule of thumb, multiply the height by 10 and this is probably what you will have to spend at a minimum for the day.

If you were to need it by the hour, then the costs could range from $75 to $250 per hour for an electric unit and up to $250+ per hour if you were to need an operator to help you with your project.

The estimates mentioned above will include the truck rental only, similar to that of a moving truck.  You will be responsible for additional insurance, an operator if required and gas/diesel.

We received a few quotes from rental companies throughout the United States and included our quotes in the table below:

SizeAverage Daily Rate QuotedAverage Weekly Rate QuotedAverage Monthly Rate Quoted
29 FT (diesel)$550$1,650$4,000
31 FT (gas)$550$1,650$4,000
38 FT (diesel)$600$1,800$4,500
48 FT (diesel)$800$2,400$5,500
62 FT (diesel)$1,200$3,500$9,000
85 FT (diesel)$1,500$4,200$11,000

United Rentals, a popular nationwide rental company, offers a 41-49 foot boom lift truck for $463 per day or $3,474 per month.

What are the extra costs?

Most estimates won’t include the operator.  If you were to need someone to operate the truck, then the hourly rates, depending on your geographical location, could start at $50 per hour.

Delivery charges, if you needed the truck delivered to your site, could start at $200 to $300, depending on the distance traveled.

Like a rental car, if you were to need insurance coverage, then this could be another $50 to $150+ per day and would only cover the truck.

Tips to know:

Larger trucks tend to be difficult to maneuver, especially in tighter spaces.

To operate a bucket truck over 26,000 pounds, the driver must have a CDL in order to operate it.  If it is less than 26,000, a standard class C is sufficient.

As a safety measure, be sure to inspect the vehicle before using.  This is important so that if something should break during the rental, you will not be blamed or be responsible for it.  Be keen about hazards, leaks, and damage.

If you were to hire an operator, many companies will have a minimum hourly requirement, which is usually around four to six hours.

How can I save money?

The longer you rent the truck, the cheaper the rates can be.

Corporate rates are offered by some larger rental companies.

How Much Does a Staghorn Fern Cost?

Staghorn ferns, also referred to as Elkhorn ferns, are part of the Platycerium family; they are named so because of their strong resemblance to the horns of a stag or elk.

These ferns are planted and grown primarily for ornamental purposes and can be found all over the world, very resilient to the elements.

The staghorn fern is different from other ferns because they do not have roots in the ground and can grow upon other trees and plants.  However, they do not take any nutrition from the base plant or tree; instead, they rely on decayed leaves that have fallen from above.

starr-091120-9875-Dicranopteris_linearis by Starr Environmental, on Flickr
starr-091120-9875-Dicranopteris_linearis” (CC BY 2.0) by  Starr Environmental

How much does a staghorn fern cost?

With most staghorn ferns, the older they are, the more you are going to have to pay.  On average, plan on budgeting anywhere from $10 to as much as $300+.   A 10-year old plant, for example, could cost around $100 to $150 while a plant that is older than 25 years can cost upwards of $500 to $1,000+.  However, if you just plan on getting a baby fern at a local nursery, you probably will not have to spend more than $30.

On eBay, at the time of this writing, we had found a 25-year-old Staghorn fern with a “buy it now” price of $2,500.  This fern, which was four feet tall and three feet deep, needed to be scraped off the tree if you were interested.

For example, a 4-inch hanging basket retails for $5 on Amazon.com.




Staghorn fern overview

The staghorn fern or Placyterium is a genus fern in the Polypod family called Polypodiaceae.

The Staghorn ferns grow with one kind of frond against a tree and then another frond jutting out like a flattened deer’s antler away from the tree.  They are usually fertile and may germinate naturally on other trees near where they grow.

A mature Staghorn fern can grow more than three feet in width.

Staghorn ferns have two types of leaves that are visible: sterile and fertile.  The sterile leaves do not help with the physical growth of the plant; instead, they stay in place and help hold water and nutrition for the rest of the plant.  The fertile leaves, however, is responsible for the photosynthesis and therefore the growth of the plant.

What are the extra costs?

You may need to purchase a new pot for your fern if the one it came with isn’t as durable for the future.  However, since these ferns tend to get big, they usually do not grow in pots.  Naturally, they tend to do best being mounted either on wood or on a wire basket.

Dirt and fertilizer can cost a few extra dollars.

Tips to know

You can actually propagate Staghorn ferns by carefully dividing healthy ferns into separate plants.  You can then strap or attach this to trees where they will eventually grow.

It is ideal to plant these in a shaded location away from direct sunlight.  They tend to grow the best in bright light but not direct sunlight.

Apartmenttherapy.com has a great article on how to mount and care for a staghorn plant.  This is very important since if you do not mount it correctly, the plant cannot thrive.

These plants are native to the Phillippines, Asia, Indonesia, Australia, America and Africa.  In the United States, most are found in the state of Florida.

In the wild, these ferns are often found growing on tree trunks or near rocks.

How to mount a staghorn fern

How can I save money?

You can save money by learning how to propagate Staghorn ferns.

Check out eBay.  You can actually find sellers selling their plants that are older than 10 years for a lot less than some nurseries.

If you enjoy gardening, you might as well buy a baby staghorn fern.  These are the cheapest kinds, and you will be able to have the satisfaction of growing one yourself.

How Much Does a Stapedectomy Cost?

A stapedectomy, according to the surgery encyclopedia, is “a surgical procedure where the innermost bone of the three bones — the stapes, the incus, and the malleus of the middle ear is removed and replaced with a small plastic tube surrounding a short length of stainless steel wire.”   These three bones in the middle ear enable the sound to be transmitted from the eardrum to the inner ear.

A stapedectomy will often be required when a patient suffers from otosclerosis, which is a metabolic disease that fixes the stapes to the inner ear, preventing its vibration, or when there is a congenital stapes malformation.

How much does stapedectomy surgery cost?

The cost of a stapedectomy depends on the geographical location, the doctor performing the procedure, the complexity of the procedure, the inclusions in the bill and if health insurance is involved.   On average, a stapedectomy can cost anywhere from $7,000 to as much as $15,000 without any sort of insurance if it were done at an outpatient center.  This estimate, however, could be much more if you were to have the procedure performed at a local hospital.

According to this forum thread on HealthBoards.com, a member talked about the estimates he received.  His quote, which he received from a freestanding surgical center, was under $6,000.  This included the consultations, blood tests, cardiologist and one follow-up visit.

Stapedectomy surgery overview

The cost of a stapedectomy usually includes the surgeon’s fees, anesthesiologist fees, and hospital costs.  Follow-up visits for three months may also be included in the fee, but this isn’t always the case.  Be sure to talk to the hospital and doctor’s office you’re working with to see what’s going to be covered.

A stapedectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the stapes or one of the three bones in the middle ear, replacing it with a prosthesis to improve or restore hearing.  Before the procedure begins, the patient will be given a mild sedative and then local anesthesia or general anesthesia will be used.

During the procedure, the stapes will be removed and replaced with a plastic prosthetic bone, which will be positioned between the inner ear and the incus.  If the procedure was successfully done, the bones will be rejoined and the eardrum will be put back in place.  The procedure will help with the movement of sound through the inner ear.  The entire procedure will be done through the ear canal.

The procedure is often done in an outpatient center and should not take any longer than a few hours.

After the procedure is complete, a cotton packing is placed inside your ear, which you will need to continue to pack your ear for the next seven days to keep it safe from infections.  In most cases, you will be either discharged that day or the following morning if the doctor wanted to monitor your progress.  It could take up two to four weeks for your ears to completely heal.

What are the extra costs?

Prior to your test, you may need a hearing test before being admitted.  The average hearing test can cost up to $250.

Pre-operation and/or postoperative care, such as visits or follow-up check-ups with the doctor and/or surgeon, need to be budgeted for if not included in the original estimate.

In the future, a slight incision may be necessary near the earlobe to extract excess fat that has built up.

Prescriptions such as pain relievers and ear drops will need to be budgeted for.

Tips to know

Otosclerosis affects around 10 percent of the United States population.

If you come down with a cold or even a slight runny nose within two weeks of the surgery, make sure you inform your surgeon.  He or she may want to postpone the surgery so there is a lower risk of a potential infection.

Common risks and side effects can include a change in taste, perforated eardrum, damage to the small bones attached to the eardrum, infection, facial nerve paralysis, dizziness, and ringing in the ear.

The modern-day stapedectomy, being performed since 1956, has a success rate of 90 percent, but in some cases, in less than one percent of surgeries, the procedure could worsen your hearing.

How can I save money?

When in doubt,  get a second opinion on your condition.  This will help you decide whether you really need the procedure.

There are alternatives such as medication, hearing aids or even waiting it out.  Talk to your doctor to discuss your options.

You can save money if your insurance company as long as it’s deemed medically necessary and you meet the insurance company’s requirements.  To be certain, talk with your insurance company ahead of time to see if they will cover it and which doctor they cover.  If you don’t have insurance or are thinking about switching, consider browsing policies in your area for free at eHealthInsurance.com

If you don’t have insurance, talk with your doctor’s office to see if they offer cash discounts or financing options.

A freestanding outpatient center will always be much cheaper than a hospital, so if at all possible, receive your quotes a few quotes from these centers that often package the entire surgery as one fee.

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