How Much Do Lockers Cost?
A locker is a small storage compartment, often in large numbers, found in public spaces such as schools and workplaces. These lockers can vary in size, purpose and security.
How much do lockers cost?
The cost of lockers will depend on the materials it was made from, the type, the size of the locker, the features, the amount needed and the company creating them. On average, lockers can range in price anywhere from $100 to as much as $1,000. Generally, lockers will not come with just one. Instead, they will come in groups. Some tiers can include two while another can include more than 12.
Standard lockers, which are usually cheaper, can cost anywhere between $500 and $800. As mentioned above, standard lockers usually come in sets of six or twelve.
GlobalIndustrial.com, an online retailer that sells various types of lockers, sells kid’s lockers as well as premium lockers with six tiers. For example, a blue kid locker made from steel retails for $100 to $500. A 6-tier premium locker can cost $300 to $500.
With so many types of lockers on the market, we researched some of the most popular types, along with the price you should expect to pay.
| Type of Locker | Description | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| Antimicrobial | Commonly used in hospitals or doctors' offices to minimize the spread of diseases. | $230 (1 column wide) to $750 (3 column wide) |
| Athletic | Designed for a locker room exposed to moisture. | $450 (1 column wide) to $800 (3 column wide) |
| Cell Phone | Like a laptop, these lockers are tiny enough to fit a cell phone and charger. These lockers can have 8 to 12 openings on average. | $600 to $1,500 (8-12 openings) |
| Coin Operated | Commonly found at schools, bowling alleys or areas where customers need to store belongings. | $550 to $1,000 (five tier) |
| Corrosion Resistant | Made from a galvanized steel, making it extremely durable. | $250 (1 column wide) to $600 (3 column wide) |
| Employee | The lockers often found in a break room, ranging from five to six lockers high and three columns wide. | $200 (1 column wide, 6 high) to $600 (3 column wide, 6 high) |
| Football | As the name claims, these lockers are designed for a football locker room. | $400 to $600 each |
| Garage | Easy way to organize items inside a garage. | $700 (single) |
| Gym | Found in gyms across America, these lockers will have vents, secure storage options and will be made from a durable material. | $230 (1 column wide) to $800 (3 column wide) |
| Kids | Found at a daycare facility or school. | $250 (5'H X 1' W) to $1,000 (6'H X 3' W) |
| Laptop | Schools, government agencies and corporations use laptop lockers to secure any laptop device. | $1,000 to $1,500 for a 5-12 opening locker. |
| Metal | The most prolific locker on the market today. A great value and bit more durable than plastic. | $125 to $400 (single) |
| Plastic | Used in moist environments such as a pool or food processing factory. | $400 to $800 (single) |
| School | Yes, the lockers you envision from school, but can also be used for small businesses and corporations. | $125 (1 column wide) to $500 (3 column wide) |
| See Through | Just as the name implies, these lockers are similar in size of that to a school locker, but you can see right through them. Commonly used in jails, schools and factories. | $250(1 column wide) to $850 (3 column wide) |
| Stainless Steel | Lockers used in areas that may be prone to rust or required for sanitary purposes. | $650 (1 column wide) to $2,000 (3 column wide) |
| Wood | Wood lockers are often found in schools but are often chosen by those who want a "country club-"like look. | $350 (1 column wide) to $1,300 (3 column wide) |
Factors affecting the price
The materials
While most lockers will be made from a steel, it can also be constructed from a material such as plastic.
Units
As stated, groups will often be sold in “units.” Standard lockers will be sold in sets of six or 12, but the more units you purchase at once, the more you can save per locker.
How it’s constructed
Construction could be the most important part affecting the costs. A fully welded locker, made up of unitized pieces could cost more than a one-piece locker created from plastic.
Lockers overview
Since lockers are considered storage compartments, the features closely resemble that of a cabinet. It will have a handle for easy opening and a lock or sets of keys for added security. Some lockers come with a combination lock that will need to be used by anyone who plans on using it. Others, such as those found in public places, may have a removable key that is released once money is inserted. Lockers used in schools usually have a simple hole where a padlock can be used if the student wants to use one.
Lockers can have other features such as vents and stands. The construction would depend on what they will be used for.
Inside a locker, it will usually contain a few storage racks and a pole to hang clothing with a hanger. Smaller lockers, however, will usually just have enough room to store a few pieces of clothing and shoes.
Lockers can be made from many different materials, but the most common will be metal. They can also come in many different sizes depending on the use and where they will be installed.
What are the extra costs?
Additional costs involved when buying lockers from an online store is the shipping and handling or delivery fee. The rate would depend on the weight of the lockers, retailer and how far it has to be shipped.
If the lockers you purchase need padlocks, you may have to purchase these separately, but most of the time, it will be up to those who plan on using it to supply one.
Having the lockers installed by a professional can bring up the costs as well. Depending on the complexity of the room and the number of lockers, the price of installation can greatly vary. Since all jobs are unique, consider getting multiple quotes for free from reputable contractors in your area at HomeAdvisor.com.
Tips to know:
No matter the material, they can be painted any color to match your building.
How can I save money?
If you can, consider purchasing these lockers used. This is a great way to save up to 50%. Check out eBay or Craigslist to see if any are available.
Buying in bulk, especially if you were to buy more than 50 or more can bring the costs down by more than 20 percent.
Some retailers, if you need to have the locker assembled before it’s shipped, can charge up to 30 percent more.
How Much Does a Llama Cost?
A llama is a type of animal that is commonly used as a pack animal; however, there are some cultures that may eat the meat. But in the United States, most are used for livestock purposes.
Llamas are great animals for working because they are capable of carrying about 30 percent of their body weight for up to eight miles. Although they look really gentle, llamas are also used as a livestock guard. They can protect sheep from predators such as coyotes and other pests. Llamas can grow up to six feet tall, weigh 450 pounds and closely resemble a camel and a sheep.
How much does a llama cost?
The cost to buy a llama will depend on the age, its temperament, wool quality gender, its history, the size and where it’s purchased. On average, a llama can cost anywhere from $300 to as much as $5,000. A llama with no training, for example, can be as little as $400 to $900 while a llama used for breeding or weaning can start at $1,500.
Llama Nation, an online classified website, had 300+ listings at the time of this writing, with prices varying anywhere from $300 to $3,000. About 70 percent of the listings, however, were less than $750.
Shangrila Llamas, located in Callaway, Virginia, had quite a few listings up on their website. Most of the llamas, either sold in the past or as today, were in the $600 to $1,500 range.
What is going to be included in the price?
A reputable breeder should include some sort of guarantee, up-to-date vaccinations, a deworming, medical history, nail trimming, sheering and aftercare support if you needed.
What are the extra costs?
Unless a llama is being used as a guard animal, they shouldn’t be left alone due to their herding instincts. With that being said, if you want to invest in a llama, plan on adopting at least two to three. Failing to do so can lead to some aggressive behavior.
A barn or three-sided shelter, if you don’t have one built, will be needed to keep them out of the sun or rain. This shed should be large enough to allow each llama to move around freely and offer them some space. Most of the time, llamas will roam around outside unless it’s too hot outside. The biggest problem, at least according to Gala Online, will be the summer months when they are trying to keep cool. If you haven’t built a shed yet, consider adding ridge vents to allow the hot air to escape, or if you’re able to, add electricity to run a fan.
The shelter is only part of the llama’s living situation; they will need adequate fencing as well. At a minimum, the fence needs to be safe, secure and made from either boards or split rail. These animals tend to steer clear of fencing so there’s no worry about aggressive behavior.
As for feed, the results are mixed as people have varying opinions when it comes to the nutrition and feeding. Two animals, on average, can cost about $350 per year to feed. This would include the pellets and about six months worth of feeding hay. If allowing them to feed in a pasture, an acre can feed about three to four llamas.
Most of the time, llamas won’t need medical attention; however, males with fighting teeth may need to have them cut off to avoid becoming destructive to other llamas in the pen. Every month, but if it could be up to every three months if you live in a rockier terrain, the toenails need to be trimmed, but this can be done on your own you learn how it works. Deworming, as with any livestock, needs to be done by a local veterinarian, along with vaccinations such as a rabies shot.
Delivery, if needed, can be an additional cost if you need the seller to deliver it personally.
Tips to know:
As long as healthy, a llama can live 15 to 20 years on average.
Llamas can come in all shapes, colors and size, but the average llama will weigh between 250 to 425 pounds and reach heights of four to six feet tall.
Llamas can spit; however, they will only do so to keep other llamas at bay or to establish their territory to keep a pecking order. An abused llama, according to graustarkllamas.com, may spit at any threat.
What’s the difference between a llama and an alpaca?
Ears. The ears of an alpaca will be shorter in shape while llamas will be much longer, similar to that of a banana.
Face. If you pay close attention to a llamas’ face, it will be longer, while an alpaca will have more of a “smashed” face.
Hair. The hair of an alpaca will produce finer fibers than a llama. An alpaca will also produce more fleece in different color variations.
Purpose. Alpacas have been known to be bred for fiber, and in some countries, the meat as well. Llamas, on the other hand, will be primarily used as either a pack animal or for the meat.
Size. Alpacas, on average, will weigh up to 175 pounds, whereas a llama can be much heavier, often weighing more than 400 pounds. The same can be said for heights as an alpaca can stand about 36 inches tall, while a llama will be 10 inches taller.
How can I save money?
See if any llama rescues exist in your area. If so, this is a great way to adopt a llama that needs a home for a lot less than purchasing from a private breeder. Also, a local llama auction, if available, can often net some decent deals.
How Much Does LoJack Cost?
LoJack, a trademark name for a radio transmitter technology system, is a device that helps owners track and recover their vehicle if it were to be stolen or lost. In order for LoJack to work, a transceiver is installed in the vehicle, and each device is placed in an unknown position that varies from vehicle to vehicle. This ensures that the someone will not be able to find the device and remove it. When a vehicle is stolen, the owner can simply call the police and they will be able to track it from there.
LoJack claims to have recovered over 300,000 vehicles since it was introduced to the market a couple of decades ago.
How much does LoJack cost?
LoJack started out as a tracking and recovery device for vehicles, but they have since begun to use similar devices in other ways. For instance, a Lojack device can be placed on expensive electronics or even a person with Alzheimer’s, for example, to prevent them from getting lost. The price of Lojack would depend on the type of vehicle that you have since the device is designed differently depending on the reason for its use.
Since Lojack is primarily used for cars, they offer different packages for car owners such as packages designed for trucks, classic cars, taxis, commercial equipment and more. For instance, if you have a classic or collectible vehicle, the price for the LoJack can range from $695 to $700. For newer model vehicles, the company offers a stolen vehicle recovery system package which starts at $700. If you want a total protection package, according to our research, will cost about $1,000 as a one-time fee. This total protection would include the silent transmitter installed in your vehicle, an early warning signal if your car was moved without your permission and an extended warranty that guarantees your LoJack investment for five more additional years outside of the standard two-year warranty.
Research, according to LoJack, shows a laptop turns out missing every 50 seconds. The reason that laptops are stolen so often is that they are lightweight and compact and therefore very easy to take. LoJack has introduced a system that can locate the laptop and its location history. This service can cost $40 or so per year.
Motorcycles are also considered to be stolen at an alarming rate due to the fact that they are open vehicles that can be towed fairly easily. The price of this product depends on the location and the dealer and the price for it can range anywhere from $400 to $900 for a one-time fee.
This Edmunds article says the one-time fee is about $695 or $995 with the early warning feature. However, like most dealer prices, the prices presented to you can be negotiable.
LoJack overview
Once purchased, it will be installed inside the vehicle and the vehicle identification number and the car’s description will be registered in the National Crime Information Center database. This can either be done as a stand-alone option or done at the dealership when you purchase your car. If a theft report were to be sent to the police, the police will make a routine entry into the database from time to time, essentially activating the LoJack system. If the police car were three to five miles from the vehicle reported stolen, then the police will be alerted with a description and the exact location.
A two-year limited warranty is included, and if the vehicle isn’t recovered within 24 hours, then LoJack will offer a refund up to the MSRP.
If a product or car is ever stolen, all the customer will have to do is contact the Lojack offices. After contact has been made, they will be able to contact the police and will be able to pinpoint the exact car’s location using their GPS technology.
What are the extra costs?
Some LoJack products require an annual renewal such as the LoJack used for laptops and other gadgets. As stated above, the annual fee can hover around $40 perLoJack
LoJack also offers an extended warranty which will extend the standard two-year 24-hour money back guarantee. You can also get Lojack’s five-year guarantee plus. This guarantees that if a vehicle is not recovered within 30 days after it is reported stolen or is totaled due to theft, LoJack will pay $2,500 each to the dealer and the customer.
Once your car has been found by Lojack, you will need the aid of the police to recover the vehicle. In some areas, there may be a service fee for the police to perform this since it is not an emergency.
Tips to know:
LoJack isn’t available everywhere. Check the official locator on their website to see if it’s available in your area. At the moment, it’s only available in 26 states.
If you were to sell or trade in your car, the LoJack system won’t transfer to a new vehicle.
How can I save money?
To save money, Lojack will sometimes offer their products at a reduced rate if you order directly from them. They can take off as much as $100 from the original price of the product.
Lojack is a name brand of a company that was one of the first in the industry. However, there are many other companies that offer a similar service such as Zoombak, Mobile IQ and most car manufacturers offer its own version. Lojack is the most common name, it may be more expensive than the lesser known companies. These other companies may not offer as much or have as high success rates, so make sure you do your research before deciding.
Automotive News says the cost of LoJack to the dealers is about $200 to $250, leaving quite the room to haggle. Don’t settle on the price they offer as most will be happy to lower the price.
How Much Does Pork Loin Cost?
The pork loin, also referred to as the center cut pork roast or loin, comes from the pig’s tissue in the back that runs along the top of the rib cage. It can either be cut into individual servings, as steaks or as a pork chop.
How much does pork loin cost?
By the pound, plan on spending $2 to $4 per pound at your local grocery store. A boneless cut will often be in the $3 per pound range, while a bone-in pork loin can be about $1 cheaper per pound. The pork loin butt roast portion can be in the $3 per pound range as well. The costs really depend on where you’re purchasing it and where you live.
Sam’s Club, for example, sells an all natural pork loin for about $1.75 per pound. Costco is in the same range, which is about $2.50 per pound, according to our research.
Members on A Full Cup discussed this very question and said any price in the $2 to $4 per pound range is a good price to consider.
Joe’s Butcher Shop, located in Carmel, Indiana, lists its prices online. According to their pricing list, the costs for 100 percent natural reserve pork ranges from $2.99 to $3.49 per pound.
Pork loin overview
The pork loin, unlike the pork tenderloin, will be wide enough to cut steaks. Don’t confuse the two as a tenderloin will be smaller and thinner than a pork loin.
The cut can either have the bone-in or it can be boneless. Bone-in loins with the backbones, for example, will be removed and the ribs will be trimmed of its meat. The typical roast can weigh two to six pounds.
As for its taste, a pork loin cut will be lean, have a milder taste and will have a thicker piece of fat near the top. If cooked properly, it can be quite tender.
Tips to know:
Chefs say the best way to cook a pork loin is simply by grilling over moderate heat and searing in the oven.
The pork loin cooking time per pound is 25 minutes at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to cut pork loin
How can I save money?
Every week, grocery stores always hold sales or promotions on different types of meat. Consider checking a few circulars in your area to see what kind of deal may be available. If cheap enough, consider stocking up and freezing any remaining meat.
How Much Does a Lobster Cost?
Lobster can be used in soups, bisques, as a lobster roll or just simply dipped in butter. Lobsters are found in all oceans and live in the sandy or muddy bottoms of the shoreline, feeding on worms, plants and other fish. In general, a lobster can grow up to 20 inches long and can reach speeds up to 11 miles per hour.
How much does lobster cost?
The cost of a lobster will depend on where it’s purchased from, the size, quality, geographical location, how it’s processed (fresh or frozen), time of year and market conditions. On average, plan on spending anywhere from $8 to $19 per pound at the grocery store. Generally, the further you live away from Maine, the more you will pay at a local retailer or even online. At most stores, a lobster will be in the one to four pounds ranging, meaning, the average price will be anywhere from $8 to $60+ for a lobster. However, you can find jumbo sizes online, weighing as much as 12 pounds or more.
At Publix, for example, the price for lobster, as of 2017, was $16.99 per pound.
The Yankee Lobster Company offers prices on its official website. At the time of writing this guide, a one-pound lobster can cost $10 per pound, while a jumbo, which will weigh more than six pounds, can cost $8.99 per pound.
If you want to purchase the meat already prepped, frozen and ready to go, the prices can be much more. Mixed lobster meat can cost $45 to $65 per pound, while the tail meat only can be $50 to $70 per pound. Every five pounds of lobster yields about one pound of meat.
Lobster tails, which usually weigh about four to five ounces, can cost $8 to $15 each. Some retailers such as Sam’s Club may price it by the pound; in this case, it can be in the $50 per pound range.
| Weight | Average Price (total) |
|---|---|
| 1 pound | $11 |
| 1.5 pounds | $16 |
| 2 pounds | $21 |
| 3 pounds | $32 |
| 4 pounds | $42 |
| 5 pounds | $53 |
Lobster overview
No matter where you purchase a lobster, you’re going to find two species: the spiny lobster or Maine lobster. A spiny lobster, which has a distinct white spotted pattern, will have no claws and will come from the warmer Caribbean waters. If you’re solely buying the lobster tails, there’s a good chance it’s coming from the spiny species. A Maine lobsters will come from the colder Atlantic waters, and most of the time, they will be sold live.
Aside from the species, there are two types: a hard shell and a soft shell. As a lobster grows, it will shed its shell, revealing a softer shell beneath. As they puff with new water, it will stretch out the newer shell, effectively, hardening again. This process will occur once per year, usually around July until December. A softer shell, of course, will be softer and the meat, at least according to The Food Republic, will be sweeter, but it won’t be as hearty.
Lobster can be purchased at your local grocery store, directly from the fisherman at the dock, online or a specialty fish market. Regardless of where you purchase it, lobsters will be held in large aerated tanks to keep them as healthy as possible.
What are the extra costs?
Since soft shell lobsters are hard to ship across the country, buyers often have to purchase online. Due to the sensitivity in shipping, expedited shipping is a must, often resulting in a higher shipping fee, especially if you don’t meet the minimum spending requirements. Shipping can be in the $25 to $35 range.
Tips to know:
When you cook it, a lobster should always be cooked live. Once killed, a lobster, according to Serious Eats, will become a crustacean zombie due to the fact it digests its prey via the enzymes in their upper digestive tract located inside their heads. Once killed, this can result in a mushier meat inside the tails in a matter of hours. If killed and shipped frozen, the tail and claws will often be removed and will be immediately frozen. This is why you will rarely see live lobsters sold frozen.
A healthy lobster, when purchased, should be able to lift its claws, raise its tail and move its legs energetically. Any lobster with limited movement should be avoided.
Close to 80 percent of the lobster you see will come from Maine and will be in the form of a soft-shell lobster during the summer and fall months.
A good lobster will not have an odor.
Once purchased, it’s always best to eat it immediately. If not fed, a lobster will start to feed on its fat storage as a means of survival, effectively, losing its body weight.
If you want to know if a lobster has been in a tank for a long time, pay close attention to the lobster’s antenna. As time goes on, other lobsters will eat the antennae and can nibble it right down to the base. A lobster with a longer antenna will mean it hasn’t been in the tank as long as the others.
Chefs recommend steaming instead of boiling to keep a sweeter taste and retain more of the flavor.
How can I save money?
If you want the cheapest lobster possible, visit the coasts of Maine and find a local market near the docks. Here, you can often find lobster for as little as $3 per pound.
Grocery stores, like most of its items, commonly put lobster on sale. If you have a handful of stores in your area, check the circular ads to see if any of these stores are holding a sale.
Lobster, when purchased near the coast, will always be the cheapest from June to September when in season.
How Much Does Flour Cost?
Even though there are many types of flour grinded from a variety of nuts and seeds, the most frequently used is the all-purpose flour.
When used while baking, flour will contribute to the body, texture and flavor, binding the ingredients together to support the battery. It can also used to thicken sauces, creams, pie fillings and even be spread out on a surface to prevent a dough from sticking to the surface.
How much does a bag of flour cost?
On average, plan on spending anywhere from $2 to as much as $4 per five-pound bag. The cost will depend on the brand, quantity and where you purchase it from. Refer to our table below to see what the most popular brands and the many types may cost you at your local grocery store or online.
Walmart, for example, sells more than 20 brands, with prices ranging from $2.50 for a five-pound bag of Gold Medal Flour to as much as $8 for a 25-pound bag of their Great Value brand.
50-pound wholesale bags, which are commonly found at restaurant supply stores and wholesale clubs, can cost close to $10 to $15 each.
Almond flour, blanched from slivered almonds, can cost about $2 to $4 per eight-ounce bag. A four-pound bag, sold on Amazon, for example, sells for close to $30.
Whole wheat flour, a flour made from 100 percent premium whole wheat, can cost about $4 to $10 per five-pound bag.
Coconut flour, a flour people purchase as an alternative to wheat and other grain-based flours, comes from the dried, defatted coconut meat, and can cost about $4 per 16-ounce package.
Unbleached flour, which ages naturally without using a chemical agent, can cost about double than the bleached variety mentioned above.
Cake flour can cost about $3 per 32-ounces.
| Brand | Average Cost (five-pound bag) |
|---|---|
| Bob's Red Mill | $3 |
| Gold Medal | $2.50 |
| Gold Medal Organic | $6.50 |
| King Arthur | $3.50 |
| Pillsbury | $2.50 |
| Pioneer | $3 |
| Store Brands | $1.50 |
While most of us think of the all-purpose flour when thinking about flour in general, there are quite varieties as you will soon find out in our table below. Listed in this table are the average prices for each type.
| Type of flour | Average Price |
|---|---|
| All-purpose | $2.50 per 5-pound bag |
| Almond | $11 per 16-ounce bag |
| Amaranth | $7 per 22-ounce bag |
| Barley | $3 per 20-ounce bag |
| Bread | $3 per 5-pound bag |
| Buckwheat | $4 per 22-ounce bag |
| Cake | $3 per 32-ounce box |
| Chickpea | $2.50 per 16-ounce bag |
| Coconut | $4 per 16-ounce bag |
| Corn | $3 per 24-ounce bag |
| Farina | $4 per 2-pound bag |
| Millet | $3 per 23-ounce bag |
| Oat | $3 per 16-ounce bag |
| Organic Unbleached | $9 per 5-pound bag |
| Pastry | $3 per 48-ounce bag |
| Pumpernickel | $11 per 3-pound bag |
| Quinoa | $10 per 22-ounce bag |
| Rice | $4 per 48-ounce bag |
| Rye | $4 per 5-pound bag |
| Self-Rising | $5 per 5-pound bag |
| Semolina | $3 per 24-ounce bag |
| Sorghum | $3 per 22-ounce bag |
| Soy | $3 per 16-ounce bag |
| Spelt | $4 per 24-ounce bag |
| Tapioca | $3 per 20-ounce bag |
| Teff | $6 per 24-ounce bag |
| Whole-Wheat | $4 per 5-pound bag |
Tips to know:
The type of flour you use can and will affect the product you’re making. Flour contains protein, and when it’s able to come in contact with water and it’s heated, it will product gluten, which offers the elasticity and strength baked goods need. Since each type of flour will have a different amount of protein, it can affect the outcome in the end. An all-purpose flour, for example, has about a 10 percent protein content and is made from a blend of soft and hard wheat flours and can be either bleached or unbleached. Cake flour, on the other hand, will only have a six to eight percent protein content and will be made from a softer wheat flour chlorinated to break down the strength of the gluten, creating a smoother texture than other flour. Bread flour, as the name implies, is designed for just that — bread. This flour will have a higher protein count, around 14 percent, and will be made from a hard wheat flour. The higher gluten content will cause the bread to rise, giving it the strong shape and structure it desires.
Always store your flour in a dry, cool place for up to six months. If stored beyond six months, it’s best to play it safe and discard it; however, if it smells bad or changes color before the six months, throw it away to be safe. All flours will have a limited shelf life. To prevent insects, consider using the refrigerator or freezer. If you do decide to freeze it, you will have to take it out 48 hours before using.
For those using a recipe, one pound of flour will yield 3 and 1/3 cup if you’re using an all-purpose flour.
How can I save money?
Flour is just that — flour. If possible, purchase store brand name to save up to 40 percent.
Buying in bulk from wholesale clubs can often be the best way to save.
How Much Does Flagstone Cost?
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Flagstone is a “generic term” used to describe a flat stone, usually used for walkways, fences, roofing or patios. This sedimentary rock is split into layers along the bedding planes and is a form of sandstone.
Commonly used for a walkway, patio, tile or even as a driveway for a patio, it’s a natural stone, meaning all pieces won’t be created equally and will come in a variety of colors, even if it comes from the same quarry. Common colors include blue, red and rarer exotic colors.
How much does flagstone cost?
When contractors bid on a flagstone job, they will often quote by the square foot, usually in the $15 to $22 range. This price will include the base materials, the mortar, and professional labor If you don’t need the professionals, it can cost $2 to $4 per square foot for just the materials. Since all jobs are so unique, consider getting multiple quotes from local, licensed contractors in your area for free from HomeAdivsor.com.
If priced by the ton, which is just as common as pricing per square foot, then the costs can be in the $120 to $750+ range, depending on the type of flagstone and where you purchase it from. On average, a ton of flagstone can cover about 125 square feet.
The Landscaping Network says the national average to have flagstone installed can be in the $15 to $20 per square foot range.
The AZ Flagstone Supply company, located in Sedona, Arizona, lists its prices on its website. The thicknesses, ranging from one to three inches, can start at $120 per ton. Saw cut flagstone tiles, available in a variety of colors, such as sunburst, buckskin, pueblo, rosa and chocolate, and thicknesses start at $4.25 per square foot.
Install It Direct says the price for material and installation will be all over the map, but typically, it can range anywhere from $15 to $30 per square foot if you were to use a professional contractor.
| Type | Description | Average Price (per ton) |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Flagstone | Resists heat and can be commonly found as a pool patio | $500 |
| Bluestone | Named as so, this stone comes in a deeper blue color. | $325 |
| Limestone | Commonly used due to its low cost, but it won't be used for heavy-weight applications. | $90 |
| Quartzite | Harder than sandstone and can come in more colors. Found in Okalhoma, Idaho and parts of Utah. Common colors include tan, gold, silver and gray. | $550 |
| Sandstone | The most commonly found flagstone in Southwestern states such as Arizona. | $125 |
| Slate | Known for its antique look, slate can be found primarliy on the east coast, coming in colors such as copper, gray and green. | $550 |
As for projects, flagstone is commonly used for driveways, patios and walkways. Each job will depend on the contractor you use, the type of flagstone, the job site and the factors mentioned below.
| Type of Project | Average Professional Cost |
|---|---|
| Accent Wall | $25 to $35 per square foot |
| Driveway | $5,000 for about 250 square feet. |
| Fireplace Hearth | $3,500 to $5,500+ |
| Flooring | $7 to $18 per square feet. |
| Patio | $2,000 per 100 square feet. |
| Walkway | $2,000 per 200 square feet. |
Factors affecting the price
Scarcity
As you can see in our table, there are a few types you can choose, and depending on where you live, some stones may be more readily accessible than others. Limestone, for example, is almost found anywhere, whereas sandstone will only be found in Arizona.
Location
The geographical location of the site where the flagstone is being installed, as with any professional job, can affect the price. The farther you live from the contractor, the more you may have to pay.
Prep
Preparing the site, such as removing landscaping, an existing project and/or excavating, can add to the price since more time and equipment will be needed.
Type of stone
All flagstone won’t be created equal. Some flagstone such as limestone can be more fragile than others, making it harder to install. Plus, if the stone is fragile, it can easily break while in transit or while being installed. Because of this, 20 to 30 percent more may need to be ordered to ensure there’s enough material to complete the job.
Patterns and shapes
The more complex the pattern is, the more it can cost. Irregularly shaped stones, for instance, can be harder to install since they will need to be cut. The same can be said about the pattern. A pattern which requires alternating colors, awkward patterns and/or extra design planning can increase the costs.
What are the extra costs?
Flagstone, if not available in your area, may have to be shipped out of state, leading to additional shipping fees. Bluestone, if it were to be shipped from Connecticut, for example, would be quite costly if it had to be shipped to Utah.
Once installed, you can just install it and forget about it as it will still need to be cleaned and sealed to keep it in tip-top shape. Sealing with a matte finish can help protect the stain and should usually be done once per year. One gallon, on average, will cost close to $25 and can cover about 150 square feet.
Depending on the flagstone you choose, it is prone to cracking, chipping or even a stone can come loose. While you can leave it be, some opt to fix the issue, which, of course, can lead to additional costs. Repairing a chip, simple crack or securing a loose stone can all require a professional contractor.
How Much Does ELISA Test Cost?
The ELISA test, known as an Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, can determine if an antigen is present in a sample.
This test will use components of the immune system and chemicals to detect any immune responses in the body and will involve an enzyme and an antibody or antigen to help commonly diagnose infections such as HIV, lyme disease, hemolytic anemia, RMSF, rotavirus, syphilis, toxoplasmosis and some allergic diseases.
The substances detected during the reading may include viral antigens, hormones, bacterial antigens and/or antibodies the body created in order to start fighting an infection or vaccination.
How much does an ELISA test cost?
The cost of an ELISA test will depend on how you’re taking it, what you’re testing for and where you live. If you were to order a kit from an online laboratory, the costs can be anywhere from $150 to $600 per test.
Members on MD Junction talked about this question, and one member, in particular, said they were quoted $350 for the ELISA and another $140 for the Western Blot. Another member said they paid $225 at a local lab and another $260 for the Western Blot.
ELISA test overview
A kit, if purchased online, will include a pre-coated polystyrene plate, detection antibodies and the chemicals needed to perform the tests; however, if you want to use the test for a specific disease, then the kit will only include the substances designated, according to Medicine Net. In most cases, a lab tech will need to take a blood sample, but in some circumstances, they can take urine or saliva. At most testing sites, if you have the test done in person, can take up to four hours; however, if you were to send the results to a lab online, then the results could take up to two weeks to deliver.
There are four types and hundreds of variations of ELISA tests: direct, indirect, sandwich and competitive. In general, an ELISA test will be accurate and are considered highly sensitive and compares favorably with other methods to detect certain substances in the body. This will often be the first step to determine if other in-depth tests are required.
Depending on the results being tested, you could see results in as little as 24 hours if testing at a local lab.
What are the extra costs?
If testing for HIV, the test will always have to be done with a Western Blot or IFA if you tested positive for HIV on your ELISA tests, and labs will almost always combine this test so you don’t have to take two blood samples at once. The Western Blot will confirm the ELISA test findings if you were to test positive for an HIV infection within the last six months. This test, effectively, will confirm HIV antibodies were present. As mentioned in our bullet point above, a Western Blot test, if needed, will be an additional $200 to $300 at most local labs.
As stated, an ELISA test is only the first test. If you were to test positive for any test, other tests would be mandatory to determine the right course of action.
Tips to know:
In general, a doctor won’t ask for any special prep work. Commonly done in a lab, if blood were required, it would be no different than any other test that draws your blood.
Side effects, according to HealthLine.com, may include an infection, feeling faint, bruising or more bleeding than usual.
How can I save money?
Those who have had this test done in the past highly recommend getting it done at a local laboratory, not the hospital lab as the prices can be two to three times higher.
How Much Does Flank Steak Cost?
Known to be one of the most inexpensive cuts of a cow, the flank steak is the cut from the abdominal muscles of the cow, basically right in the belly. Meaning “over the belly,” this is a long and flat cut used in a variety of dishes such as a London broil, stir-fry or carne asada. Serious Eats says this is most possibly the best dollar-to-flavor value out there.
With plenty of fat, juice and a deep, rich flavor, this tough cut can be tasty if sliced and prepared properly. Also known as fajita meat or Roumanian strip, it’s commonly sold to restaurants as a cut for fajitas and will often have the membrane attached to it, which needs to be cut off before it can even be cooked. For consumers, however, the membrane is often removed, making it easy for it to be prepared at home.
How much does flank steak cost?
The price of flank steaks, like other cuts of meat, will depend on the quality and where you purchase it. At most local grocery stores and butchers, you should plan on spending close to $7 to $11 per pound.
At Sam’s Club and Costco, for example, the costs are usually in the low $7 to $8 per pound range.
Wiencek’s Meat lists its prices on its official website, and at the time of this writing, they are charging $11 per pound.
Flank steak overview
The flank steak is boneless, lean and is commonly used for grilling or marinating. This cut, according to TheKitchn.com, has a lot of tough fibers running through it and is fairly lean. When compared to a skirt steak, it’s thicker and wider in size. Even though it can contain a beefy texture, it can be a little tough. To maximize its tenderness, cooks recommend thinly slicing and cutting against the grain.
At most butchers and grocery stores, you will find most flank steaks will be five to six inches wide and about a foot long.
Tips to know:
When choosing a cut, pay close attention to the girth since most flank steaks will be thin. Typically, a cut that’s fat on one end and skinnier on the other will be hard to cook evenly.
Flank steak can be grilled or baked depending on your preference. If cooking the steak on the grill, you should marinate it first; however, grilling will result in the loss of juices from the steak, so you should cook it quickly on high heat to prevent losing all the juice. Flank steak can also be baked. After putting the meat in a dish with some seasoning and olive oil, cover it tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 350 degrees. This will cause the steam from the meat to collect within the pan, helping tenderize the meat.
Skirt steaks work well with any rubs and marinades. At the very minimum, flavor it with salt and pepper to increase its flavor.
If a recipe calls for flank steak and you’re looking for a substitute, you can consider a skirt, flat iron or hanger steak.
How to cook flank steak
How can I save money?
With a flank steak, you’re already saving money since it’s oftentimes half the price of a strip steak or rib eye. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t save even more money. Since meat is always on sale, compare a few stores in your area to see if any is on sale. If you have the freezer room, you can stock up on meat and store it for several months.
Even if you find the store is selling a larger-than-average steak, most meat departments will be more than happy to cut your steaks into sections for easier storage.
How Much Does a Flemish Giant Rabbit Cost?
Flemish giant rabbits are domesticated and are famously known because of their large size. They are known to be docile and tolerant of gentle handling, even more than a normal bunny, which tends to be jumpy and fidgety at times.
How much does a flemish giant rabbit cost?
The price of a Flemish giant rabbit will depend on the age, quality, where it’s being purchased and where you live. On average, it can range anywhere from $30 for a basic Flemish Giant to as much as $300 for a show-quality rabbit.
Flemish-Giant.com put together a nice chart, showcasing what it will cost to take care of the rabbit and how much it will cost to adopt one. According to the chart, on the lower end, it could cost $30 to $50, while a show-quality could cost $75 to $300. In another article on the same website, they also say the costs come down to two factors: quality and age. On average, a rabbit without a pedigree can cost $20 to $50.
Hobbly, an online classified website similar to Craigslist, had a few listings at the time of this writing, with prices ranging from $20 to as much as $100. Most of the ads we looked at were for rabbits eight to 12 weeks old, with a few being older than one.
What is going to be included in the adoption?
Any reputable breeder should include its medical records, up-to-date vaccinations, a vet checkup, a health guarantee and a travel crate if it were to be shipped. Depending on the breeder or organization, a starter kit may be included. This type of kit can include basic necessities such as food, coupons, care guides, and more. Most breeders will allow you to take it home once it reaches eight to 12 weeks of age. Before the adoption, a good breeder, especially if you’re adopting a pedigree, will talk about the rabbit’s heritage, show you general information and explain what they expect from you as a potential owner.
What are the extra costs?
Unlike a bunny you often envision when you think of one, these rabbits can be much larger, and because of this, will need different supplies. According to the Double L Rabbit Ranch, your new bunny will need a home base, hay, pellets, a 32-ounce water bottle and a container for a litter box. They say an owner should set aside about $15 per month to take care of their rabbit once the one-time expenses are out of the way.
Its diet will primarily consist of rabbit pellets and unlimited grass hay. At a minimum, it should be at least 16 percent protein. Each day, your Flemish Giant, on average, will eat about one ounce of pellets per pound of its body weight, but it could be much more if your rabbit is more active than usual. A 10-pound bag of pellets can cost about $10 to $15.
At a minimum, your rabbit should have a cage larger than three by two feet, but experts recommend the bigger it is, the better it will be for your rabbit. Inside this cage should include a litter pan, bed and chew toys to keep it entertained. Plan on spending a few hundred dollars for a good sized cage. Since a cage can often be cramped for a rabbit of this size, a playpen either inside or outside is a great way to offer it the exercise it needs throughout the day.
A Flemish Giant will be susceptible to ear and fur mites. Fur mites will look similar to dandruff, often behind the ears, while ear mites will create a crusty-like appearance behind the ears. If any of these symptoms were to be present, ear drops will be recommended to kill the eggs. Also, if you plan on having your rabbit roam around your yard, flea protection is highly advisable.
Tips to know:
A common way to purchase a Flemish Giant Rabbit is often by searching for “Flemish Giant breeder, followed by your zip code or city you reside in.” Once you do find one, contact them and ask them a few questions to get to know the breeder.
If healthy, the average Flemish Giant Rabbit can live five to eight years.
The average size can range from 15 to 21 pounds, with a doe weighing about 10 to 20 percent more on average.
It comes in a variety of colors, including blue, gray, white black and blue.
These rabbits will get along well with other animals, but keep in mind if two males were in the same area, they could fight to the death. However, if you were to fix your rabbit, this problem could be avoided if the two were to create a bond. Aside from rabbits, owners have claimed they do get along very well with dogs, cats and other common household pets.
These rabbits can’t and won’t tolerate the heat. Once the temperature hovers around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, you need to figure out a way to keep the temperature at a comfortable level to avoid stress or even death. If you don’t have air conditioning, consider investing in a swamp cooler or freezing two-liter bottles or water to allow them to rest against it.
How can I save money:
Consider checking local Humane Societies to see if they have any up for adoption. There are many people who purchase one of these rabbits and then decide it is too much for them.
It also doesn’t hurt to check out classified websites like the one we mentioned above. Going this route can often connect you with a previous owner who may be getting rid of it for one reason or another. Most of the time, in this scenario, you’re able to not only get the rabbit, but the supplies as well.
