How Much Does Screen Printing Cost?

Screen printing is the process of using a woven mesh to support an ink-based stencil.  This stencil can then form and transfer any image or color onto any piece of clothing such as a hat, t-shirt, sweatshirt and more.

This process usually works best when the article is made of a polyester material, but it can be done to other fabrics as well.

Screen printing is a great way to create custom gear for your place of business, school or sports team.

fatal flaw factory by dirty black chucks, on Flickr
fatal flaw factory” (CC BY 2.0) by dirty black chucks

How much does screen printing cost?

On average, plan on spending around $8 to $15 per t-shirt.  Larger items, such as sweatshirts and hooded sweatshirts, can cost anywhere from $18 to $29 each.  With most companies, the more you purchase at once, the lower the “per item” rate will go.  Usually, you have to create an order of more than 100+ to see a significant discount.  Do not forget to factor in the setup and color fees.

For example, Cheapestees.com charges anywhere from $2.95 to as much as $7.95 per t-shirt.  The cost will greatly depend on the number of colors and the number of t-shirts needed.  This will not include the $35 per color, per side setup charge.

Zazzle states that their t-shirts start at $11.84, but you can receive discounts by ordering a greater quantity.

Refer to our table below to see the average estimates we gathered:

Type of Screen Printing JobAverage Price (per item)
White T-shirt (1 color)$7
White T-shirt (3 colors)$8
White T-shirt (5 color)$9
Dark T-shirt (1 color)$8
Dark T-shirt (3 colors)$9
Dark T-shirt (5 colors)$10
Doubled-sided White T-shirt (1 color)$9
Doubled-sided White T-shirt (3 colors)$12
Long-sleeve White T-shirt (1 color)$13
Polo White (1 color)$14
Sweatshirt (1 color)$21
Hoodie (1 color)$25
Baseball Style Shirt w/ name and two digits$20

NOTE:  These are the averages from close to 10 websites we had looked at.  Your results will vary, and remember, these costs can go down if you were to purchase more than 25+ at a time.   Also, don’t forget to add in the setup fee if they were to charge one.

Factors that affect the cost

The article of clothing

Screen printing can be done on t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweatshirts, tank tops, pants or sweats, hats, a bag and so much more.  The piece you need screen printed will determine the base price of the project.

Color

The color of the item to be screen printed will affect the cost since a white shirt, for instance, is easier to print than a black shirt.

Design

The more complex the design, the higher the price will be.  More colors will also mean a higher price.

Placement

Most screen prints are done on the front or back of the shirt.  However, the print can be done on other places such as down the sleeve, on the hood of a sweatshirt, or down the leg of a pair of sweats.  Each location will require a different screen, which means the price will increase with each location.

Quantity

Most print shops will have a minimum order, usually 10 to 15, but many will offer discounts for orders of 100 or more.

Screen printing overview

The price you are quoted for screen printing should include the t-shirts and all labor rates.  The basic estimate will often be for a 100 percent cotton shirt, designed by a major manufacturer.

When having something customized, such as a t-shirt, the screen printing company will usually need the number of shirts, the number of colors that will be needed, the style, the type of material and how fast you need it back.

When submitting a picture, most will ask that it is in a JPEG, PNG, GIF, TIFF or PDF form.

Most will limit you to eight colors to a shirt.

What are the extra costs?

Most screen printing companies will want you to provide the artwork for the items.  However, if you need them to create something for you, they can do it for a minimal fee.

The more colors that you need, the more you are going to probably pay.  On average, for each color, plan on adding at least $1 to $3 per item.

Double-sided printing can be an additional $1 to $4 per piece.

An initial setup fee may be charged on top of the t-shirt price.  This setup fee can cost anywhere from $10 to $45.

The average turnaround time is seven days; however, many offer rush services that can result in a higher premium.  A rush order, for example, could increase the costs by more than 100 percent.

Placing a photo on a t-shirt can be costly as well due to the color separation process.

Larger sizes such as XL and XXL can cost an extra $1 to $3 more per shirt.

Typical t-shirts are going to be the color white.  However, customers are able to choose darker colors.  Darker colors can cost $5 to $10 more per shirt, depending on the brand and style.

The estimates above are often for a plain white t-shirt, and if you were to upgrade the type of clothing, additional fees will apply.  A long sleeve shirt, polo or baseball-type shirt can cost an extra $5 to $7 per shirt, while a hooded sweatshirt or sweatshirt can cost an additional $13 to $20 per item.

Adding a number and/or name can cost an additional $2 to $5 per digit/name.

Tips to know:

Be sure to read the fine print.  Many screen printing companies are going to include setup fees and more.

If you can, try to limit the number of colors.  The fewer colors you have, the more you are going to be able to save per shirt.

Know the turn around times.  Busier companies can take up to a month to return your orders.

Even if you are ordering a range of sizes from youth to adult, the print shop will use the same screen.  This means that your design cannot be any bigger than the size of the smallest shirt.  The design may look normal size on a youth small but may look very small on an adult extra large.  Consider having them make two different size screens; this should only cost you $50 more at the most.

If purchasing online, shipping fees may apply, but it can be waived if you purchase the minimum required.

How can I save money?

Generally, the more shirts you purchase at once, the more you are going to save “per item.”  Usually, large discounts can be had when you reach 500 shirts or more.

The internet is jammed packed with companies that are willing to create your t-shirts.  Make sure that you compare at least three to five companies.  VistaPrint.com is known to have some of the lower prices when it comes to screen printing.

Creeate your own design so that you do not have to pay someone to do it for you.

There are many times that you can purchase the articles of clothing separately and then take them to the print shop to be printed.  For example, if a store has a really good sale on sweatpants, you might pay less than you would if ordering through the print shop.

How Much Does a Toyger Cost?

The Toyger cat, reminiscent of a tiger, was created in the late 1980s.

This designer cat was developed through the selective breeding of domestic cats, creating a distinctive appearance with its pelted and glittered look.

Toyger (TGR) Eeyaa American Idol by Nickolas Titkov, on Flickr
Toyger (TGR) Eeyaa American Idol” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  Nickolas Titkov

How much does a Toyger cat cost?

In most cases, this breed can range anywhere from $500 to as much as $3,000.  The price will greatly depend on the marking, its parents, the type, bloodline, the breeder and the quality.

According to Jungletrax.com, there are three chief categories used when pricing pedigreed cats such as a Toyger: the pet quality, breeder quality and show quality.  Pet quality Toygers cam cost $500 to $1,500, according to the website, while a breeder and show quality Toyger can cost more than $1,500 to $3,000.

Primaevalcats.com, a small Toyger cattery located in Texas Hill Country, sells Toygers according to the three main categories: pet, breed and show quality.  Pet quality Toyger kittens start at $500 and up, while ‘tiger’ striped pet kittens start at $1,250 and up.  The prices of a breed quality Toyger starts at $2,250, while a show quality Toyger starts at $3,500.  The prices of kittens depend on how well they satisfy the Toyger standard, while the prices for the breed and show quality cats depend on availability.

The Big Cat Rescue tells us that Toygers aren’t cheap, with most up for sale for $800 to more than $4,000.

TypeDescriptionAverage Price
Breeder Quality Kittenshave markings that make them appropriate for the show ring, including spots, ticking, and a white tail tip.$2,000
Show Quality Kittensusually exhibit the brightest colors, the clearest contrast and the best patterns.  $1,500
Pet Quality Kittensusually have traits that render them unsuitable for breeding programs, such as a lack of dark contrast, a coat without glitter, or too many stripes.$500 to $1,500
Outcross Kittensbred to a different cat breed to increase the gene pool. $300 to $500
Retired Catsoften show quality but will be up for adoption by a breeder who shows their cats at local cat shows$150 to $350

Factors that affect the price

Quality

Toygers for a show are normally the most expensive of Toygers for sale.  They embody the breed standards and are rarely put up for sale.  Breed quality Toygers are the second most expensive ones due to their excellent bloodlines and capability to produce remarkable offspring.  Often, breed quality Toygers are those that have not passed show quality standards due to non-showable faults like pink paw pads, blue eyes, white tail tip and lockets.  Pet quality Toygers are the least costly of the three, being unsuitable for the show ring and do not have the characteristics appropriate for a breeding program.  Outcross Toygers, which are bred from other types of cats, are usually the least inexpensive ones and can be obtained for about $500.

Characteristics

When pricing Toygers, breeders adhere to the TICA (The International Cat Association) Breed Standards for the Toyger Cat when evaluating the kittens at around five to eight weeks of age.  The standards provide comprehensive details of the Toyger cat markings, which you should look when classifying them.  A Toyger possessing the qualities stated in the guidelines are typically the most valued.

Shipping costs

Toyger breeders will usually pass on the shipping fees to buyers, which then increases the overall cost of adoption.  Shipping charges can cost anywhere from $200 to $400, depending on the breeder and the location, whether domestic or international.  This is most likely inevitable since it is rare to find a Toyger breeder in your area.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

With some Toyger breeders, the cost may include the spaying/neutering, up-to-date vaccinations, deworming, TICA registration papers if necessary, microchipping and a health guarantee.  However, all breeders will have their own inclusions, so be sure to know exactly what’s included when adopting.

Before you can adopt a cat from a reputable breeder, most will ask that you sign a contract and will also ask for a non-refundable deposit, usually around $250 to $500.  This deposit will be applied toward the final adoption costs upon successfully picking up a kitten.  Reputable breeders will allow you to take home your kitten at eight weeks.

What are the extra costs?

Since this breed can be hard to find, be prepared to pay shipping fees.  Most breeders will ship via an airline, while other breeders will ship their cats via a ground transportation method.  Regardless of the method, the costs will be in the $200 to $450 range, depending on the method and how far the cat has to travel.

As with any pet cat, you need to factor in the recurring costs such as cat litter, food, accessories, cat sitting and vet visits.  A healthy cat can easily cost $500 per year, whereas a cat with an illness can cost double or even triple this.

Tips to know:

Its coat, brown in color, is soft to the touch, plush and very soft.

Its lifespan can range from 12 to 15 years.

A male will always be slightly larger, weighing 12 to 15 pounds, whereas a female will weigh closer to seven to 10 pounds.

Before buying a Toyger, you may want to first observe a Toyger at a show and talk with some breeders.  The TICA, for instance, provides a list of cat clubs, fanciers and catteries for people who wish to learn more about Toygers.

Questions to ask a potential breeder

How long have you been breeding Toygers?

Are your pet quality Toygers raised like the show quality types?

How do I know if a Toyger kitten is pure-bred or an outcross?

Have your Toygers undergone veterinarian examinations?

Have they received the required vaccinations?

Have they been de-wormed and de-sexed?

Do you provide a health guarantee for all your Toygers?

Do you sell Toygers that have not been de-sexed?

How can I save money?

Adopting a Toyger is less expensive if you’re able to find one in your local area at a rescue group.  Oftentimes, a show breeder will retire their cats and offer them for adoption.

A Toyger is a designer breed, and as you can see, it can easily cost thousands of dollars.  Highly consider visiting a local adoption center to see if you can find a kitten that closely resembles a Toyger.  While you may not be able to find one, you could find one that closely resembles one.  Adopting is a wonderful way to help a cat in need and a rescue center that could use the donations.

How Much Do Rotating Tires Cost?

Rotating your tires is an important maintenance procedure that can help lengthen the life of the tires of your car.

Since your car’s four tires will wear out differently, failing to rotate them can cause your car to start pulling to one side while driving.

tyre by Sean MacEntee, on Flickr
tyre” (CC BY 2.0) by  Sean MacEntee

How much does a tire rotation cost?

The cost to rotate your tires will really depend on where you take your car, but on average, be prepared to pay anywhere from $10 to $45 for all four tires.  In some cases, the tires may be rotated for free if you were to bring in your car for an oil change.

At Pep Boys, for example, they will rotate your tires for free with any oil change.

At Walmart, for example, they charge $2.50 per tire.  The rate is the same for tire rotation services with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a feature installed in newer vehicles that constantly monitors the vehicle’s tire pressure and sends the data to the driver.A

According to RepairPal.com, the average price was $26 to $34.

Consumer Reports says you should be prepared to pay about $20 to have your tires rotated, but in some cases, they may be rotated for free at the tire center you purchased the tires from initially.

At Firestone Auto Centers, there are often coupons floating around offering a rotation and balance for $20 to $30.  Jiffy Lube, according to our research, charges a similar pricing if they are offering a promotion.

Tire rotation overview

During the rotation, a mechanic will first check the directional tires, which are made to rotate in one direction, and the non-directional tires.  The direction tires will be moved from the back to the front and then the front to the back.  For the other tires, these tires will be moved in a crossing pattern that effectively moves the tires from a spare tire position to the front position and back.  Refer to this tire rotation diagram to see how it would work.

Aside from rotating the tires, the lug nuts will be tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specification, the tires will be inspected and the tire pressure will also be checked.  If your car uses a tire pressure monitor, these monitors will be reset as well.

The entire process on its own will take about 15 minutes to complete.

What are the extra costs?

If the tires are less than 1/16th of an inch, the mechanic will recommend new tires and won’t rotate them.  A new tire, depending on the car you drive and the tires you purchase can cost $125 to $300+ each.

If your tires need to be rebalanced, this could be an additional charge as well.  Balancing your tires will usually cost about $15 to $75, depending on the mechanic you visit, but it could be much less than this if you combine it with a tire rotation.

Tips to know:

A tire rotation should be done every 6,000 to 9,000 miles to ensure the tread wear pattern is maintained evenly.

While you can drive without rotating your tires, this will ultimately decrease your mileage, tire life and handling.  Be sure to keep a log when your tires have been rotated and try to rotate them every 6,000 to 9,000 or whatever your manufacturer recommends in the owner’s manual.

How can I save money?

Try to have your tires rotated when you get an oil change.  Most mechanics and dealerships will include this in their quote.  Also, be sure to look for a coupon online to see if any deals are currently available.

Some companies, such as Costco, Discount Tire and Sam’s Club, do offer lifetime rotations for its customers who have purchased the tires through them.  Always contact the company you purchased the tires from to see what kind of deals they may be able to offer you.

Anyone can rotate their tires with the right equipment such as a jack and jack stand.  If you feel comfortable doing it yourself, then this could save you a few extra dollars.

How Much Does a Toupee Cost?

A toupee is a piece of artificial hair that is used to cover up male pattern baldness and can be ordered ready for use straight off the shelf, or it can be custom made, depending on the individual’s preferences and budget.

How much does a toupee cost?

On average, depending on what style of toupee and material you choose, the costs of a toupee can range anywhere from as little as $75 to as much as $650.  Generally, custom options are going to be higher than a toupee that can just be bought off the shelf.  Custom orders, from what we researched, are often $350 to $550, whereas a toupee that’s already made can cost anywhere from $75 to $175.

For instance, at Advent Hair in Carlisle, Missouri, they offer custom hair systems for $575, plus options, which include customizations.  An oversize base, for example, will cost another $75, while Remy hair would cost an additional $100.

The Wig Warehouse offers a wide selection of toupees from various brands.  For example, the Helena collection ranges anywhere from $95 to $700, while the Jon Renau collection can cost anywhere from $125 to $425.  The Wig Pro brand retails for $335 to $375.

On Amazon.com, the highest rated toupee pieces range anywhere from $75 to more than $145.




Factors that affect the price

Hair quality

Toupees are made using either natural or synthetic hair.  Hairpieces created with natural hair are often more expensive than those with synthetic hair.  Companies will often use Indian Remy hair when using a natural hair product.  Custom-made toupees, usually, are made with quality human hair. The color, the density and the texture will be matched so that the toupee looks like natural hair.  These toupees can cost thousands.  Ready-made toupees are often made using artificial materials and can be purchased for less than $50 via online stores, boutiques or mail-order catalogs.

The method of attachment

Toupees can be attached to the head in a variety of ways. One is via adhesives, which allows easy attachment and removal.  Metal clips, another method, are fastened to the underside of the toupee and attached to the natural hair.  Lastly, snaps are tied or sewn to natural hair and can only be removed or adjusted by a technician.

Maintenance

Toupees made with excellent quality human hair require greater care and maintenance than synthetic wigs.  Human hair toupees need to be shampooed and conditioned every seven to 10 days using a special shampoo and conditioner designed for toupees made with human hair.  After washing, they need to be dried by air or by a dry blower on a low heat setting.

Toupee overview

A toupee can come in natural or synthetic hair and will require a special glue or double-sided tape underneath it so it adheres to the exposed area of the scalp.

Toupees will have a varied base size dimension, length, density, curl, and hairstyles to suit different preferences.  Some come with bangs, crowns, or knotting styles, while others can be parted in different ways.  Basically, if you can imagine the hairstyle and color, a company should be able to create it for you.

If ordering a customized toupee, it can take anywhere from three to five weeks to receive your order.

What are the extra costs?

Various accessories need to be budgeted for that are designed to help care for the hairpiece in the future. These accessories, and their estimated cost, can include adhesives ($4 to $10), brushes ($3 to $15), shampoos and conditioners ($6 to $17), styling sprays and gels ($7 to $8), wig stands and caps ($3 to $9) and a mannequin head while the toupee is not in use ($40 to $120).

WebMD recommends purchasing two units if you plan on wearing a semi-permanent attached hairpiece.  They state the reason is due to the fact that while one is being maintained, you can wear the other.

Tips to know:

If opting for a custom toupee, make sure that the supplier offers a money-back guarantee to ensure product satisfaction.  Should you be dissatisfied with the order, the toupee maker should rebuild it for free, or you can return the toupee in an uncut and unaltered state in the required period in order to get a refund.

When ordering a ready-made toupee, make sure that it has the right density and has enough hairline recession. Having too much density on the toupee and then thinning it out can result in tiny stubble against the base, which then creates an irregular, coarse feel when running fingers through the hair.  Also, a toupee with adequate hairline recession can help make the hairpiece appear less evident.

The best way to store a wig is by hanging it on a wig stand.  This way, the toupee does not become tangled and soiled between wearing and it can also maintain its style.

Steer clear of any company attempting you to sign up for a maintenance contract.  Once you purchase a toupee, you should be free to go wherever you please when buying maintenance products.

Questions to ask a retailer

How do I go about the selection process?

How do I find the appropriate size and color?

How do I choose the right toupee for my face shape?

How important is the density of the toupee?

How long does the toupee last?

Is the photo on your website exactly the same as the item I will receive after ordering?

If I order today, when will I receive the item?

What is your policy on returns and exchanges?

How do I determine the shipping costs for my order?

How can I save money?

Discounts can be obtained from toupee suppliers that offer discount coupons to online buyers.  Orders that reach the minimum order amount and are used with coupons may qualify for free standard ground shipping to anywhere in the continental US.

Look out for items included in an online store’s clearance sale.

Some toupee suppliers offer free ground shipping to customers who place orders exceeding their minimum order policy.

How Much Does a Towing Service Cost?

Every year, millions of cars are towed for many reasons, and in your lifetime, there’s a good chance you will need to be towed at least once.

Tow truck on St Mark’s by Salim Virji, on Flickr
Tow truck on St Mark’s” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  Salim Virji

How much does a towing service cost?

The cost of a tow will depend on your circumstances, where you live, how far your car needs to be towed, the type of car being towed and the towing company you choose.  Based on these factors, the prices can be anywhere from as little as $30 to more than $650.  A standard tow will always be cheaper than hiring a flatbed tow truck, but if your car were in a car accident, this will often be your most expensive scenario.

Regardless of how far you have to be towed, a towing company, even if you had to go a mile, will always have a minimum rate, referred to as a hookup fee,  which is usually about $30 to $60 on average.   Aside from the hookup fee, a towing company, depending on the billing policy, will then charge another $3 to $7 per mile.

Refer to our table below to see what you could pay for a tow.

DistanceAverage Price
5 to 10 miles$40 to $100
25 to 50 miles$100 to $350
50 to 100 miles$350 to $700

AAA, if you were a member of the club, offers three membership tiers, and the costs will depend on which tier you belong to.  A basic member will only receive a short-distance tow, while a Plus member can receive a tow of up to 100 miles.  Premier members will get up to 200 miles of free towing.  Again, to get these perks, you need to be an AAA member, and the costs of these plans can range anywhere from $50 to more than $130.

Pep Boys offers a towing service for $24.99 for the first 10 miles, but this price is for new and existing members.  If you were not a member of the club, then the regular price is $49.99 for the first 10 miles.  This service is only available to those who are located near a Pep Boys store.

What are the extra costs?

Some companies may charge a premium when rendering services on nights and during weekends or holidays.

Aside from towing a vehicle to a designation of your choice, a tow company can also help deliver gas, jump start your car, unlock doors, change your tires and/or pull you out if you were stuck.  If you were to need any of these services, additional fees could apply.  Most of these services will be about $75.

Depending on how the towing company bills, they may tack on sales tax and/or a fuel surcharge.

Mentioned above, the circumstances could affect the price.  For instance, if your car were stuck in the mud, the tow truck would have to “winch” your car out, which could increase the amount of time the tow truck driver has to be at the site.  This, effectively, could increase the costs, usually around $75 to $100 per hour.

Some towing companies allow you to keep your car on its lot for a storage fee, which can cost anywhere from $30 to $75 per day/night.

Tips to know:

Ask a trusted mechanic for recommendations if you don’t know which towing company you should use.

Many car insurance companies offer towing plans and it may be included in your policy.  Talk with your insurance company before hiring a tow company to see if you’re covered.

How can I save money?

Almost all towing companies will be transparent with their pricing.  Before you have a car towed away, call a few companies before deciding to see what each company will charge.

If you have roadside assistance, check with your carrier before hiring a tow company as you may need to use their authorized company in order to have your bill covered.  In most cases, carriers will have a limit, usually $50 to $150 of coverage, and there could be a mileage limit on top of this as well.  Since all carriers are different, talk with your company before you call a tow truck company to understand your policy.

If you were in an accident and your car is considered a total loss, then your car insurance policy should cover the cost of the tow during the claim, even if you don’t have a roadside assistance policy.

Check your car’s warranty.  If it’s still under warranty, the automaker may cover the towing if it were due to a defect.

Some credit card companies offer free roadside assistance.  Check with your credit card company to see if you’re covered.

How Much Does Broken Garage Door Spring Repair Cost?

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A broken garage door spring is often the top cause of garage door failure.  It can even extend its damage when it snaps powerfully and hits your car or the garage’s ceiling.

With a broken spring, you may not be able to get your car out of the garage.  If your springs were to break, then this is something you will need to have repaired immediately.

The costs to repair your garage door springs will depend on the condition of your garage, the type of garage door you have, the type of springs required, where you live and which company is performing the job.

Lift Master 1/2 HP Garage Door Opener by Dave Dugdale, on Flickr
Lift Master 1/2 HP Garage Door Opener” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Dave Dugdale

 How much does it cost to repair a broken garage door spring?

On average, to have your springs replaced on your garage door will vary anywhere from $200 to as much as $400 if you were to hire a professional.  Breaking the costs down, the springs, depending on the part needed and the size, will cost about $20 to $60 each.  Add in the labor, which can be $45 to $85 per hour, depending on your location, can bring the grand total to the estimate noted.   A tilt-up door, on average, will be about 20 to 30 percent less than a roll-up door.

If you were to do the job on your own, then the parts will be about $20 to $60.   For instance, the highest rated garage spring kits on Amazon.com cost about $20 to $60+

If your door has two springs and only one is broken, most professionals will most likely recommend changing both since, sooner or later, the other spring can also break down.  It is also best to have the springs be of the same elasticity so that the garage door opens and closes evenly, allowing each one to wear evenly.

Since most garage door spring replacement jobs are relatively straightforward, it doesn’t hurt to shop around.  Consider getting multiple quotes from HomeAdvisor.com. Here, you simply explain your job and licensed contractors will email you with a no-obligation quote.

Mr. Jeff Beneke, who wrote for Garages.about.com, shared that the replacement of his broken garage door springs cost him $259.

Angie’s List talked with a few garage door contractors and found the average job would be in the $200 to $300 range.

On this City-data.com forum thread, a forum member asked what they should pay for this repair.  According to more than three pages worth of answers, the costs most people paid and recommended was within the $150 to $300 range.

Broken garage door spring overview

When you hire a professional, the first thing they will do is turn off the power as a safety precaution.  They will then measure the existing door springs to make sure the new springs they order or have in stock fit accordingly.  With these new springs, they will unwind the existing springs and install the new ones in its place, tightening them with screws.  When tightened, the springs will be balanced, lubricated and the springs will be wound up.  Lastly, the door will be tested and the tracks will be lubricated to move efficiently.

After the job, most companies often include a warranty on the parts and labor for up to five years.

The average job can take 45 to 90 minutes.

What are the extra costs?

Sometimes, while doing the spring replacement, the contractor may discover that something else may also need repairs.  For example, your garage door may be considered too old and may no longer be able to operate properly with the installation of the new springs.  In this case, they may recommend a brand new garage door.

Tips to know:

Beware of handymen who would recommend unnecessary replacement of a broken garage door.  They may simply be trying to make more money by doing a full replacement.  Do research to make sure you know the difference.

When you intend to replace your garage door spring, take into consideration the longevity of the springs.  The lifespan of a spring, on average, is anywhere from 5,000 or 10,000 cycles of expected wear, which will last about five to seven years.  Over time, however, they will begin to weaken and will eventually break.

Choose the appropriate spring that complements the size and weight of your garage door.

Every so often, check all of your mounting hardware and door frame track for signs of stress, loose hardware, rust, or dirt.

Lubricate the track wheels for easy operation and to help the door roll easily.

Keep the springs lubricated and free of rust so that they will last and serve you for a long time.

How can I save money?

With any professional job, call at least three local companies to see what each one is going to charge.

Replacing or fixing a spring can be done; however, do so at your own risk as replacing a spring can be extremely dangerous.  Refer to this YouTube.com video on how these springs are replaced.

Squeaking isn’t a sign of faulty springs; instead, this often indicates your springs have worn down a bit and will need some lubricant.  If you were to lubricate the springs and continue to hear the noise, then you may want to either consult with a professional or repair the springs yourself.

If you’re having a hard time shutting your garage door or it even closes to fast, again, it doesn’t mean your springs are bad.  This often means your springs are out of balance and simply need to be refitted.

How Much Does Broken Axle Repair Cost?

An axle is that straight shaft that is located underneath the vehicle.  This is a part that is easy to see by simply glancing under the car.

The basic function of the axle is to keep the wheels in place.  Aside from this function, an axle is also responsible for absorbing the brake and acceleration of the vehicle and bears the whole weight of the car.

There are three kinds of axles in a vehicle:  a straight axle, split-axle, and the tandem axle.  The most common type of axle is the split axle — where the tires on the right and left side of the car are connected separately.  This allows the two sides to absorb bumps and dips differently, giving the car a smoother ride.  It also allows the tires to turn at different speeds, giving the car better traction when going through turns.  The type of axle in your car will depend on its make and model.

If you begin to feel a strange vibration as you drive, this is a good indication that there is something wrong with your car.  Most often, the problem lies in the axle.  In some cases, there may just be something out of line; other times, however, the axle may have broken.  A broken axle needs to be fixed immediately; otherwise, it can cause substantial damage to your vehicle.

Austin A40 rear axle by dave_7, on Flickr
Austin A40 rear axle” (CC BY 2.0) by  dave_7

How much does it cost to repair a broken axle?

On average, the costs to repair an axle will depend the repair required, the car you drive, the number of sides, which axle and the mechanic you hire.  If the entire axle on both sides has to be replaced, the costs, on average, will be in the $300 to $1,000 range.  In most cases, the axle and shaft will be replaced, and depending on the circumstances, it may be done on one side, but most mechanics recommend replacing both sides.  If a mechanic were to replace only one side, then the costs will be about half of the estimate noted, around $150 to $350, on average.

RepairPal listed some quotes for a front axle shaft replacement, with prices ranging from $252 to $1,064 for a front axle replacement.

Repairing a broken axel

Before the mechanic even works on your car, he or she will first want to confirm the axle is the culprit.  Performing a test drive, they will pay close attention to the CV joints, which are the parts that connect the axle and the wheel together, for any clicking noise, a sign the CV axles need to be replaced.  If the problem is coming from the CV boots — the parts that covers the CV joints — and there’s no damage to the gears, then the CV boot may only be fixed.  If your car has a straight axle, then the wheels may be turned manually to see if there’s an issue.

To remove the axle, a mechanic will first remove the differential cover and disconnect the axles from the differential.  Then, the brake drum, rotor, hub and the axle will be removed, and during this process, if there’s any damage seen where the bearings meet the axle, then it must be replaced.

What are the extra costs?

Some shops will include a wheel alignment with their quotes, but some shops won’t.  If the shop does charge for an alignment, then you should be prepared to pay another $20 to $200, depending on the car you drive and the repairs being performed.  Most of the time, a wheel alignment isn’t required after a CV boot and/or axle were replaced.

As noted, if any other parts, such as the bearings, CV joint and/or CV boot, are in poor condition, then a mechanic may want to swap the parts out while the car is already disassembled.

Tips to know:

If you suspect that there has been damage to your vehicle’s axle, try putting it into gear.  If you hear a sudden thud, it may mean your car’s axle is broken.  If you’re noticing some bumping, clicking or grinding when you’re making a turn, then it’s probably the CV joint that’s failing and the axle will slowly fail in the future.

A broken axle may be caused by overloading, bad carrier bearing, or an intense impact or bump on the road.

How can I save money?

With any car repair, try to get as many quotes as possible.  While you don’t want to focus on the price, pay close attention to the mechanic’s history, reputation and always make sure they are certified and insured.

Some shops do offer discounts to AAA members, senior citizen, military members and/or students.  Be sure to ask about any discounts before getting the repair.

How Much Does Toilet Paper Cost?

Toilet paper is among the most used items in the household today.  A study conducted showed that the average consumer uses 8.6 sheets every time you go to the bathroom.

Toilet Paper by M_Shahab, on Flickr
Toilet Paper” (CC BY 2.0) by  M_Shahab

How much does toilet paper cost?

On average, a package of toilet paper can cost as little as $1 to as much as $40 for a large bulk roll.  The prices depend on the brand, the number of plies, number of sheets per roll, square feet, the number of rolls, and packaging.

Living Rich With Coupons broke down the costs of toilet paper per square foot.  According to her research, a one-ply thin roll averages $0.0045 per square foot, whereas a two-ply thick roll will cost about $0.013 per square foot.

The best sellers on this Amazon list ranges anywhere from $22 for 36 rolls of Cottonelle Ultra ComfortCare to as little as $7 for 12 rolls of the Cottonelle Ultra ComfortCare.

Refer to our table below to see what most popular brands will cost you at your local grocery store.

At wholesale clubs, such as Costco, toilet paper often comes in 30 to 60-count packs, with prices ranging anywhere from as little as $16 for the Kirkland brand to as much as $27 for a pack of 60 Scott tube-free bath tissue.

Brand# of RollsAverage Price
Angel Soft12 jumbo$6
Angel Soft18 mega$15
Angel Soft36 double$17
Charmin6 mega$7
Charmin12 double$6
Charmin24 double$11
Cottonelle12 double$7
Cottonelle18 mega$17
Cottonelle36 double$17
Scott12$9.50
Scott20$14
Scott27$17
Quilted Northern9 Mega$9
Quilted Northern12 double$6,50
Quilted Northern18 mega$17



How can I save money?

Get the best price on toilet paper by calculating the price per square foot per package instead of calculating the price per roll.  Find the price and then divide it by the total square feet figure on the package.  The answer will be the price of the toilet paper per square foot.  Compare it with other toilet paper products: the lower the figure, the better the deal.

Toilet paper companies almost always have coupons readily available online via social media or in local newspapers.  Consider looking for a few coupons before making your next purchase by either visiting popular coupon blogs or searching online.

Store-branded toilet paper can be just as good as the name brand and will cost up to 30 percent less.

The Krazy Coupon Lady says the Costco brand is always $0.01 per square foot, making it one of the best deals if you can’t find a coupon for a local store.

Amazon’s Subscribe and Save program can help you save up to 30 percent if you have more than five items delivered automatically.

How Much Do Floor to Ceiling Window Replacement Cost?

Floor to ceiling windows create a lot of living space and allow the maximum level of natural light to enter a home.  The costs involved when having floor to ceiling windows installed or replaced vary from one provider to another and will typically depend on several factors such as the size, geographical location and if the window is simply be replaced or has to be installed in a new area.

303 Greenwich by brad.coy, on Flickr
303 Greenwich” (CC BY 2.0) by  brad.coy

How much does a floor to ceiling window cost?

The cost of a floor to ceiling window will depend on the materials it’s made from, the size of the window, the shape, thickness, glass, the contractor you choose and the company that manufactures the windows and other factors.  Based on these factors and the ones listed below, the prices can vary anywhere from $10 to $40+ per square foot.  With so many varying factors, it’s best to consider getting multiple quotes for free from online companies such as HomeAdvisor.com.  Simply describe your window situation and contractors will contact you with quotes for free via email.

According to ReplacementWindowsforDummies.com, the cost of replacing glass windows depends on the size, shape, coating, thickness, glass type, window style, and manufacturer.  Standard glass can cost up to $10 per square foot but adding extras can increase the price to $14 per square foot or more.

On this Gardenweb.com forum thread, a forum member said they were quoted $4,000 for a window that was eight feet tall and 12 feet wide, with a five-foot opening.  The fixed panels, when everything was said and done, was close to $40 per square foot.  Another member said you should be looking at $30 to $45 per square foot for a Pella window.

Zolton Cohen from MLive.com said you should be prepared to spend $9 to $10 per square foot for a new insulated glass window with a low-E coating, but if you needed a new frame, the price could increase.

Factors that affect the price

Size

Glass windows are usually measured by the square foot.  The larger the window frame or the area where the windows will be installed, the higher the overall price of the window replacement or repair project.

Glass type

Glass windows are available in different types: standard, heat efficient, low-emissivity, strong (laminated, tempered, wired, and fire-resistant), mirror or self-cleaning, and reduced visibility.  Standard glass is the most affordable option.  Shatterproof glass costs more than coated or the single-pane type.  Fire-resistant glass is among the most expensive types.

Window quality

Many glass windows today are built with features that make them durable, environment-friendly and energy-efficient.  Glass window materials like fiberglass are often designed with durability, sustainability, better resistance to air and water, improved structural strength, as well as resistance to forced entry.  These features usually increase the total price of windows.

Glass replacement

Many window replacement projects need only new panes rather than new window frames.  There are different types of windows used as replacements or for repair jobs, but in general, the cost of a single window replacement with an existing window frame can cost between $300 to $700, depending on factors like style, size and the quality of the materials.  The cheapest options can be about $150 and $1,000 for high-end window types.  On average, window replacements for a regular home can cost approximately $2,000 to $10,000. For larger, two-story houses, glass window replacements can cost around $5,000 to $20,000.  If new frames need to be installed, the cost can add 50 to 100 percent of the estimated figures.

Heat-efficiency

Heat-efficient glass, such as a low-E or tinted windows, will cost more than ordinary glass.  Low emissivity coating, or low-E, is a metallic oxide covering added to a window to protect it from the heat of the sun during the summer months and to block cool air during the winter.  Window panes with low-E features often increase the base price of replacement windows by 10 to 15 percent.  Tinted windows come with a heat reflective film that works to ward off the sun’s rays, which subsequently minimizes cooling bills.  Tinted floor to ceiling windows can cost $5 to $7 per square foot.  Since tinting reduces visibility in the home, it is often ideal in rooms where privacy matters.

Double-pane windows

Also known as double glazing, double-paned windows feature two panes of glass with about a quarter-inch space in between that contains non-combustible gas to improve insulation.  Double-pane windows often cost more due to their ability to reduce heat loss by 50% and deflect outside noise.  An average window with double-pane glass can cost approximately $650 to $800.

What are the extra costs?

Shades or drapes that suit the overall design will be an additional cost to consider.  Since these windows are much larger than the traditional window, be prepared to spend more than an average sized window.

If replacing a floor to ceiling window, the older frames may need to be replaced.

While optional, adding a clear plastic film can help reduce the heat transmission and can add another $1 per square foot if installed by a professional contractor.

How can I save money?

Installing energy-efficient windows may entitle you to a federal and/or local tax refund.

How Much Do Roku Channels Cost?

The Roku is a small box that connects to the internet wirelessly and is capable of streaming over 1,800+ channels and more than 500,000 movies and TV shows when it is connected to your television.

With these channels, it can often confuse newcomers as some people think these channels will cost money.  While some of these channels will cost money, most of the channels you come across, especially if you have an existing cable television subscription, will be free for the most part.

Roku by JeepersMedia, on Flickr
Roku” (CC BY 2.0) by JeepersMedia

How much do Roku channels cost?

When you want to add a channel to Roku, you will always be presented with the cost of the channel, and depending on the channel you want to add, it can range anywhere from nothing to as much as a recurring $10 per month fee.  If it says “buy,” for example, then it will be a one-time fee and you will never be charged again.  On the other hand, if the option says “subscribe,” then the credit card you’re using will be billed this amount every month, but of course, as with any service, your recurring charge can be canceled by accessing the “My Channels” tab from the main menu.  These prices are across the board, regardless of which Roku model you have.

Some recurring channels, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Dishworld and Hulu Plus, all charge a monthly fee to access this content, but even if you subscribe, you will be able to watch the content on any streaming device, not just the Roku.

Sports channels will often apply a one-time fee, but you can pay by the month as well.  MLB.tv, for example, charges $25 per month or close to $90 per year.  With your subscription, you can access the content on your Roku.  The NBA League Pass offers a similar setup, with similar charges.

In some circumstances, the channel may say it’s free; however, when you download the channel, the video content may be limited or you may be forced to sign up via a third-party website.  For example, A&E and Disney has a free channel available, but if you’re not a current cable subscriber, your access will be very limited; however, if you do have a subscription and you confirm it with the channel, then your videos will be unlocked for free.  While these channels will be free, you’re still paying a cable bill in order to unlock the content, so it’s all in how you look at it in terms of pricing.

This RokuGuide.com guide does a nice job explaining how the channels are priced.

According to this official Roku blog post in 2014, the company says the Channel Store has close to 1,800+ channels, with hundreds of channels, such as  YouTubePandoraPBSPBS KidsHasbro and Crackle being free.




What are the extra costs?

The Roku box, of course, will be required in order to play the Roku Channels.  The price will greatly depend on the model you choose, but for the most part, the highest rated units will always be in the $50 to $100 range.

Again, if you’re signing up for a recurring service, you will be charged monthly for this channel unless you cancel it on your dashboard.

Depending on how you view it, you will need a cable subscription to access all cable network television apps in its entirety.

Tips to know:

If you want free channels, simply browse the Roku Channel Store and sort by the “best” free channels. As mentioned above, as long as the download says “free,” you won’t be charged a penny; however, the minute you insert your credit card, you may be charged a recurring fee, depending on the channel you want to watch.

As of 2017, with the exception of a local news channel app, local streaming channels, such as Fox, CBS, NBC and ABC, are not available on Roku.  Only the streaming apps are available at this time.

Remember, if it says “free,” the channel will be free to download; however, you may have to pay to view all of the content once you access the channel.  Again, you won’t be charged unless you input your credit card.

How can I save money?

The Roku, even if you don’t have a cable subscription, has more than enough free channels to keep you entertained.  This Yahoo! article talks about the 28 channels you should consider downloading, and this LifeHacker.com article talks about the cheapest ways to take advantage of your Roku.

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