How Much Does a Ribeye Steak Cost?
The rib eye, also known as the ribeye steak, is the beef steak that comes from the rib section of the cow. This rib section of beef, known to have the longissimus dorsi muscle and spinalis muscle, will span from ribs six through 12 and is known to be the best part of the ribs.
The cost of a ribeye steak will depend on the cut quality and where you purchase it.
How much does ribeye steak cost?
On average, your local grocery store and butcher will sell ribeye steak for as little as $7 to as much as $17 per pound. For instance, a thick USDA Prime cut could cost $12 to $17 a pound, while a USDA Choice can cost less than $10 per pound. Ultimately, the costs will depend on the cut, where you purchase it and your geographical location.
A wagyu tomahawk ribeye, which is graded higher than a USDA Prime, can be your costliest option, costing close to $150 per pound.
Sam’s Club, for instance, sells a three to five-pound ribeye steak for about $44, making the average “per pound” rate around $9. Costco, on the other hand, has close to 10 ribeye choices, with prices averaging about $170 for close to 16 pounds worth of steak. This 16-count Rastelli USDA Choice ribeye steak, for example, retails for $170 for 16 10-ounce pre-cut steaks.
The HEB grocery store sells a USDA Prime ribeye steak that has been aged for 14 days at $16 per pound.
Now, if you’re talking a ribeye steak at a local restaurant, then the costs can be much more. Depending on the franchise, the cost per ounce can be in the $1.60 to $2.80 per ounce range. This, of course, will depend on your geographical location and where you plan on eating.
Ribeye steak overview
This beefsteak is sliced from the rib and can either have the rib bone attached or detached.
There are different grades of Ribeye steak that can be purchased, and the most common type you will find at your local grocery store will be either a USDA Choice or Prime. The difference can be noticed in its taste as well as the marbling while the meat is cooking. In order to be considered prime, it will be considered one of the best cuts and will have the most marbling, which leads to more tenderness and juice. Choice, which will cost less, still offers a lot of flavors but will have the least amount of marbling and won’t be as lean.
This steak is known to be juicy and tender. Expect the steak to have a fat content that will maintain its juiciness; this also serves as a natural baste for the meat while being cooked.
The average ribeye steak, about 291 grams, will have 847 calories, 63 grams of fat, 233 milligrams of cholesterol, 157 milligrams of sodium, 757 milligrams of potassium and 69 grams of protein.
Tips to know:
For a perfectly cooked steak, bring it to room temperature before placing on the grill. Coat the steak with an oil of your choice, followed by a pinch of salt and black pepper. Sear the steak on a cast-iron skillet for 30 seconds on both sides and then proceed to bake it for two minutes on each side at 500 degrees. For a medium-done steak, add a minute to each side. If grilling, grill about four to five inches above the flame for three to six minutes on each side, depending on the thickness.
Food Beast recommends looking for a cut that’s bright red, with white strips of fat running throughout.
How can I save money?
Grocery stores and butchers often have a manager’s special section on meats that need to be frozen within the next day or so. This can often be a great way to save up to 70 percent.
How Much Does Pinewood Cost?
Pinewood is a processed trunk or branch coming from, as the name states, a pine tree. The wood acquired from the pine tree is considered to be one of the most sturdy woods available on the market today.
How much does pinewood cost?
The cost will depend on the type, size and where it’s purchased. On average, pinewood eight to 16 feet long can retail for anywhere from $2 to as much as $20 per piece.
For instance, pinewood 2×4 to 2×12 thick and up to 16 feet in length can range from $3 to $19.
Intercity Lumber, a lumber center located in Tampa, Florida, sells 1×2 to 1×12 sizes that can reach 8 to 16 feet long, ranging from $2 to $18 per piece.
Buffalo-Lumber.com, another lumber company requires a 1,200 square feet minimum order and sells pinewood for $3 to $8 per piece.
What are the extra costs?
If it has to be delivered by the local lumber yard, you may be charged an additional fee for shipping.
Tips to know:
Pinewood is usually carved into different forms such as boards or pre-cut lengths. These boards are soft in nature, making working with them very easy. They can be used to construct shelves, furniture, flooring and even derby cars.
Some lumber yards that sell pinewood even process the wood to turn it into a more durable material. For example, they may apply a wood finishing to protect it from types of abuse such as a liquid.
Pinewood is a great choice for cabins as it keeps the temperature constant and can absorb moisture better than other wood without the risk of decaying.
How can I save money?
Since this is a common wood carried by most home improvement stores and lumber yards, you may want to check the prices at three local retailers before making a large purchase.
Discounts may apply if you are buying pinewood in bulk. Some lumber yards, for example, may cut up to 30% of the price depending on the amount you purchase.
How Much Do Pine Trees Cost?
Pine trees are evergreen, coniferous resinous trees that can grow more than 260 feet tall and the most commonly seen trees in the northern hemisphere. These trees are known to be long-lived, often living longer than 1,000 years and more than 200 varieties exist today.
How much much does a pine tree cost?
The price of a pine tree will depend on the size, quality of the tree, variety geographical location and where it’s purchased. On average, plan on spending anywhere from $2 for a sapling to as much as $300 for a pine tree taller than five feet. With a few popular varieties on the market, we included the most popular types, along with the costs inside our table below. We found this information by visiting a few nurseries and visiting websites to see what other nurseries are charging.
Pine tree seedlings, depending on the variety, can cost about $1 to $2 per seed.
TrimPines.com, for instance, offers the eastern white pine, scotch pine, red pine and Austrian pine variety. According to the website, prices for a 15-foot tree starts at $445 and will increase as the tree gets taller.
| Type of Pine Tree | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Austrian | - $40 for 1-gallon pot |
| Dwarf Eastern | - $80 for three foot tree |
| Dwarf Serbian | - $40 for two foot tree |
| Eastern White | - $40 for 1-gallon pot |
| Green Twist White | - $90 for three foot tree |
| Loblolly | - $40 to $75 for 3-gallon pot |
| Longleaf | - $45 for 3-gallon pot |
| Mugo | - $80 for 5-gallon pot |
| Scots | - $25 for 1-gallon pot |
| White Weeping | - $50 for 2-gallon pot |
Pine tree overview
Wild pine trees can reach high heights, and the tallest known variety — the ponderosa pine — can grow as tall as 250 feet. Depending on the variety, expect the tree to grow eight to 12 inches per year.
There are a wide variety of pine trees available, but nurseries commonly carry a few varieties as stated in our table above. The dwarf mountain pine, for instance, is more like a shrub that resembles a pine tree since it can only grow up to 10 feet high. It’s usually bushy in form and as wide as it is tall. The scots pine is a hardy variety that can grow up to 60 feet in the right conditions. When mature, it has a spreading canopy, which often opens itself to a myriad of birds.
What are the extra costs?
Starter fertilizer is highly recommended for smaller trees to encourage growth if it’s going to be grown in extremely poor soil. For instance, a clay soil may recommend a pinch of organic matter or sphagnum. A good fertilizer can cost $5 to $10. However, it’s very rare a pine tree will need any sort of fertilizer.
Mulch is recommended since most of the younger pines don’t like weeds at the base. A good bag of mulch can cost $3 to $6 at your local retailer.
If the tree has to be planted professionally, the costs can greatly vary depending upon the size of the tree; however, most trees should cost less than $75 each to plan. To get a good estimate, consider using HomeAdvisor.com to receive free multiple quotes from contractors in your area.
Most local nurseries will deliver for a fee, which is usually around $55 to $125, depending on how far they have to travel; however, this fee may be waived if a minimum amount is spent.
Tips to know:
Pine trees, according to Tree Center, should be planted in full sun and will not need a lot of water. In fact, younger trees will do better in drier weather with a little water. This will encourage the tree to develop a stronger taproot.
The best time to plant the tree will be in the later summer months or during the early fall. However, if you were to plant a pine tree in the early winter, the tree can still do well as long as the ground doesn’t freeze below the tree roots.
To make sure you’re getting a quality tree, it’s highly advisable you purchase the tree as small as possible so you can pay close attention, and treat, the pests and diseases which may attack it in its early stages of life.
Pine trees prefer acidic soils but may do well in chalky soil; however, it isn’t recommended. The most important part of the soil is the drainage. Too much water can cause root rot, and for this reason, sandy or clay can make a great choice.
Unless there’s a long period of drought, a pine tree doesn’t need to be watered since they are able to develop a strong root system capable of finding and bringing up the necessary water to survive. If you haven’t experienced water for quite some time, a hose on its soaker setting should be laid out several feet away from the base for a few minutes.
Pines are very susceptible to tip blight and attacks from the pine wilt nematode and aphids.
How Much Does Pineapple Cost?
Pineapple, a type of fruit that usually grows in tropical countries, is second to bananas as America’s favorite tropical fruit. Even though the season for pineapples runs from March through June, it is usually available year-round at most grocery stores.
How much does a pineapple cost?
On average, a pineapple at a local grocery store can cost anywhere from $2 to $4 per pineapple. However, when on sale, you may be able to find it as little as $1. This cost will depend on the time of the year and store. A case of pineapple, often shipped directly from Hawaii, can be much costlier per pineapple, often retailing for close to $60 to $85 per case of six.
When priced per pound precut, it typically runs anywhere from $2.75 to $4.28, according to CBS News.
A canned variety can cost about $1 to $2 per 20-ounce container. This 20-ounce can of Dole pineapple chunks retails for less than $2 at Walmart, for example.
The USDA, according to a 2015 report, ready to drink pineapple retails for $0.55 per pint, while frozen pineapple retails for $0.30 per pint.
Pineapple juice, depending on the brand, can cost about $3 for a pack of six six-ounce cans or close to $4 for a 64-ounce container.
What are the extra costs?
While optional, a pineapple tool, which can make cutting a pineapple much easier, can cost $3 to $15.
Tips to know:
Pineapples are known to be free of fats, cholesterol and very low in sodium. High in vitamin C, pineapples also contain bromelain, an enzyme responsible for fighting inflammation. One pineapple, on average, according to Dole, contains 100% vitamin C, two grams of fiber and 50 percent manganese.
When choosing a pineapple, look for fresh, green leaves at the top. When ripe, the leaves should be easy to remove and should have a sweet pineapple aroma.
After purchasing, store in a refrigerator for two to four days. Cut pineapple, as long as stored in a tight container, can last a few days.
Organic Facts says a pineapple can offer 11 benefits: it can help manage your arthritis, help your immune system, prevent cancer, aid digestion, boost your immune system, fight the common cold, strengthen your bones, improve your vision and help elevate your blood pressure.
How can I save money?
If buying canned, many popular brands, such as Dole or Del Monte, often have coupons available in the local paper or online. Be sure to search for one before heading to the grocery store.
How Much Does It Cost to Tile a Shower?
Unlike a standard ceramic shower, a tile shower can be a great focal point, adding a lot of decor to any sized bathroom.
The cost to tile a shower will depend on the type of tile being used, the contractor performing the job, the design of the shower, the size of the shower and geographical location.
How much does it cost to tile a shower?
Depending on the factors mentioned above, the average tiled shower, with no complex designs, can cost about $11 to $20 per square foot to just install the tile, not demolish an existing shower setup. This price also won’t include the shower door. According to our research, the average shower is 90 to 100 square feet, and most homeowners paid anywhere between $1,000 to $2,100 to have their shower tiled.
As for materials, the cost will heavily depend upon the type you’re using. Ceramic tile, for example, will cost about $3 to $5 per square feet on average, while metal could be five times this amount. Refer to our table below to see what the average materials would cost for your shower.
One member on Do It Yourself, for instance, talked about what he would charge as a contractor. He said he would charge $250 for the demo, $350 for the sheetrock, $100 for the waterproof membrane, $300 to set the four-inch curb, and $1,200 for the labor. The total project in question, for a three-by-five shower, would cost about $2,200, according to this estimates.
| Material | Average Cost (materials only) |
|---|---|
| Ceramic | $1 to $8 |
| Glass Mosaic | $5 to $25 |
| Granite | $4 to $6 |
| Limestone | $3 to $7 |
| Marble | $5 to $35 |
| Metal | $10 to $35 |
| Polished Stone | $10 to $15 |
| Porcelain | $1 to $8 |
| Slate | $4 to $8 |
| Travertine | $5 to $25 |
NOTE: These are the prices for materials only. As for labor rates, add $11 to $20 per square foot to the price range mentioned above.
The cost factors
Type of tile being used
As you can see in our table above, the tile, aside from the professional labor, will be the most expensive part of tiling a shower. If you do it on your own, then it will be the most expensive part of the job.
The tile size
The larger the tiles are, the quicker the job can be done, effectively lowering the costs.
Labor costs
Your geographical area will play a large influence on the costs, along with the contractor’s demand and experience. Since it consuming, most contractors who agree to the job will often have a daily minimum, regardless of how much work needs to be done.
Removal
As we talk about below, there’s a good chance something has to be removed ahead of time. Whether it’s the shower shell or existing tile, this labor-intensive job will be an additional cost on top of the labor and material costs.
Condition
Some showers, depending on the age, may need a waterproofing membrane, for instance, while another may need new drywall installed.
Complexity
What kind of design are talking about? Is it a relatively straightforward job with no angles, or are you looking for a diagonal or herringbone pattern?
What are the extra costs?
If the older tiles need to be removed, plan on spending $200 to $450 for the average-sized shower. After removal, if the drywall were damaged, then this could be an additional $100 to $200 to replace.
More involve patterns, usually those of a diagonal or complex design, can add 10 to 20 percent more to the estimate mentioned above.
While optional, a contractor may recommend a waterproof membrane be installed behind the shower before the tile is laid. This membrane will waterproof the backer board, other parts of the shower and can cost an extra $100 to $175 to install.
If the shower is older, a contractor may recommend updating the plumbing since the backing is now exposed. Upgrading the pipes and fixtures can cost $400 to $600 more, depending on the fixtures and piping used.
Another optional service may involve glazing unglazed ceramic tiles. This sealant will help protect the tile and will cost about $100 or so.
A new shower base, if you want to install a new one, can cost $400 to $900 to install.
A new glass door, if you were to require one, would be yet another cost to consider. Depending on the door you’re looking to purchase, it could be as little as $100 for a basic Plexiglass unit to as much as $3,000+ for a solid glass door with a stainless steel frame.
Some various finishes can scratch or wear off over time, leading to a maintenance call. Limestone, for instance, can cause algae problems, while granite tiles are known to stain easier.
Tips to know:
When purchasing tile on your own, always purchase 10 to 20 percent more in case the other tile breaks or you come up short.
Shower tile can last up to 10 years or longer as long it’s maintained and cleaned. Unlike other materials, tile is designed to resist water, fading, scratches and wet areas in general.
How can I save money?
Some contractors will offer discounts if you combine other services at the same time. For instance, if you needed a new vanity, you could combine these projects to bring the costs down.
When hiring a contractor, it’s best to get at least three to five quotes to make sure you’re getting the best deal in your town. If you don’t know where to turn, consider using HomeAdvisor.com to receive multiple quotes in your area.
How Much Does Tile Backsplash Installation Cost?
| Need a pro near you? Get multiple quotes for free online. Get your quote now >> |
A tile backsplash is an option many people choose to install in kitchens or bathrooms as a way to protect the wall behind the sink and/or create an elegant design. Although its primary function is protection, a backsplash can quickly become the focal point for those who walk into the room.
The cost of having a backsplash installed will vary depending on the size of the job, the type of backsplash being installed, contractor and where you live.
How much does it cost to install a tile backsplash?
The cost of a backsplash will depend on the materials being used, the amount of backsplash you need to install and the contractor you’re using. Take a look at the table below to see what the most popular materials will more than likely cost you if you were to hire a professional. Depending on these factors, it’s best to budget anywhere from as little as $10 to $40 per square feet. Since most contractors will have a daily minimum, be prepared to see total quotes in the $400 to $800 range.
A few members on Houzz talked about what they had paid for their counter tile backsplash install. A few quotes included $812 for 19 square feet, $1,460 for under 50 square feet and $19 per square feet.
| Type of Tile | Materials Only (per square foot) | Professional Install Cost w/ Supplies (per square foot) |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | $1.50 to $3 | $7 to $25 |
| Faux Stone | $7 to $20 | $7 to $25 |
| Glass | $8 to $25 | $27 to $35 |
| Granite | $15 to $25 | $30 to $40 |
| Marble | $15 to $25 | $30 to $40 |
| Metal | $15 to $25 | $30 to $40 |
| Porcelain | $3 to $7 | $20 to $30 |
| Real Stone | $20 to $40+ | $25 to $50 |
| Slate / Limestone | $5 to $10 | $25 to $35 |
| Stainless Steel | $20 to $25 | $30 to $40 |
| Subway Tile | $1.50 to $3 | $7 to $25 |
Installing a backsplash overview
Even though it seems like a small project, it will still be a two-day job for any professional. The first day will involve the prep work, moving in the tools, installing the tile and using a fast-setting type of thin set to adhere the tile to the drywall. If everything goes well and the contractor has time left in the day, then they will grout the tile, allowing it to dry overnight.
On day two, the grout will continue, if necessary, and the tile will be sealed, cleaned and the entire area will be cleaned up. A good contractor should drop cloth in the area, protecting everything in sight, offer good customer service and provide liability insurance.
What are the extra costs?
Angles and complex spaces or patterns can often increase the price of the job since it may be harder and more time consuming for a contractor to perform the job. If the pattern were to require more planning and skill, such as a diamond pattern, for instance, then the costs mentioned above could increase the costs by more than 30 percent.
Also, if electrical outlets need to be cut or if an edging finish must be done, the costs can increase as well. Cutting a hole for outlets can add another $10 to $20 per outlet.
If older tile needs to be removed, this could add another $200 to $500 to the total, depending on how much tile needs to be removed.
If the drywall behind the older tile and/or is currently damaged, then the contractor will want to replace it as well. Replacing drywall can cost about $100 to $200.
Adding a medallion in the center can cost $200 to $300 per addition.
Tips to know:
Before you purchase a batch of tile for your backsplash, purchase a few tiles to make sure it matches the appearance you’re envisioning.
Also, according to an expert on Angie’s List, you will have to realize when the countertop meets the backsplash, there will be a small gap since it can’t be installed tightly due to the movement between the two. If the tile were to be installed flush against the counter, it could cause the tile to pop off. Instead, a concavely curved piece can conceal this joint and offer a visible barrier of any separation.
How can I save money?
If you’re remodeling your kitchen and need other jobs done such as replacing a countertop and/or cabinets, then you may be able to receive a discount if you bundle your jobs together.
If the contractor will install the tile you purchased, consider checking out local hardware stores or distributors for tile on clearance.
No matter where you live, there’s a good chance there’s a handful of tile contractors in your area. Because of this, try to get as many quotes as possible to see what the going rate is in your area. HomeAdvisor.com, for example, allows you to explain your project and receive free bids online.
How Much Does Tilapia Cost?
Tilapia, a species of the cichlid fish, comes from the tilapiine cichlid tribe and can be found in a variety of freshwater areas such as streams and lakes. Tilapia is known as an invasive species for some bodies of water, often taking over and killing off other species in the area.
Because of its very low levels of mercury and low costs, tilapia is a popular fish, especially for those on a vegetarian diet. Even though they are native to the Middle East and Africa, they have been distributed across the globe, being farmed in more than 80 farms across the world.
The cost of tilapia will depend on the time of the season, how it’s processed and where you purchase it from.
How much does tilapia cost?
On average, fresh whole tilapia can cost anywhere from $3 to as much as $8 per pound. Imported tilapia almost always is often going to be cheaper than purchasing tilapia within the United States. Fish purchased directly from the United States in natural waters can cost as much as $8 to $10 per pound.
Frozen filets, often found in the frozen food section of your local grocery store, can cost anywhere from $2 to $4 per pound. If purchasing fresh filets from a reputable fish market, then the costs can be in the $10 to $15 per pound range. When filleted, the average tilapia will yield 30 to 37 percent, depending on the size and final trim.
Live tilapia, if you’re able to find it in your local area, can cost about $1 to $2 for a small three-inch fingerling to as much as $10 to $15 for one that’s full grown.
Green Acre Aquaponics, for instance, sells tilapia in a natural and sustainable aquaponic ecosystem, allowing them to live in an antibiotic-free and stress-free environment. Most fish sold here will come in 1.5 to three-pound quantities and will be served whole on ice. At the time of this writing, a whole non-fillet fish will cost $3 per pound, while a properly filleted fish will cost $12 per pound.
Fisherman’s Cove, an online seafood retailer sells it for $5 per pound.
According to this WashingtonPost.com article, fresh fillets can sell for $5 to $6 per pound, while a frozen fillet can be as cheap as $2 per pound.
Tilapia varieties
Frozen
Frozen varieties will often be imported from Asia and will be the cheapest way to purchase it. Seafoodwatch.org recommends watching your intake due to poor farming conditions in most parts of the foreign world.
Fresh
Fresh tilapia will come from the United States, Canada and parts of South America. Buying fresh will mean you can avoid environmental damage.
Live
Lastly, live tilapia will come from U.S. farms and allows you to inspect the fish before purchasing; however, buying live can often be hard, depending on where you live.
Tips to know:
Tilapia, according to most, won’t have a “fishy” taste and will be very mild in comparison, usually tasting like the sauce you cook it in.
100 grams of cooked tilapia will have 128 calories, 26 grams of protein and will be high in B vitamins, potassium, selenium and phosphorous.
Be sure to know where your fish came from before purchasing as most of the tilipia on the market will come from another geographical location. Farm raised tilapia, for instance, does not offer as much nutrition value as a freshwater fish due to the corn that farm feed tilapia eats. In the United States, either ask the fish market where the fish originated from or check the packaging to see its country of origin.
Be careful as some tilapia process has been linked to carbon monoxide.
How to cook frozen tilapia
How can I save money?
Consider purchasing frozen boxes as these tend to be cheaper than purchasing fresh tilapia. Wholesale clubs, for example, sell boxes of Tilapia for a low cost.
While imported fish will usually be cheaper, many do not even notice the difference in taste. Research the name of the fish farm ahead of time to get a better idea of the quality.
How Much Does Tie Rod Replacement Cost?
The car’s steering wheel is connected to a steering gear which helps turns the wheel. Essentially, this gear is then connected to what’s known as the tie rods and do exactly what they sound like: tie together components. The tie rods are responsible for making sure the wheels are aligned and help provide the adjustment for wheel alignment to make sure the inner and outer edges of the tires don’t wear out. If they do wear out, the wheels will eventually lose its alignment, essentially causing the tires and the steering wheel to shake while driving.
How much does tie rod replacement cost?
The cost to replace your tie rods will depend on the car you’re driving, the mechanic you go to and your geographical location. According to our research, the average mechanic or dealership charges $170 to $450 per inner or outer tie rod. Parts, depending on the car you drive, will be in the $30 to $150 range, while labor will be in the same price range. Since the tie rods don’t take a long time to replace, the labor time will be at a minimum. We researched a few popular car makes and models and included the estimates we had found inside our table below.
Ray and Tom answered this very question on the Dallas News. Bo, who asked the question, stated he was quoted $500 to replace the CV boot and tie rod.
Another member on Car Talk was quoted $352 to have his inner tie rods replaced on his Ford Explorer. According to those who replied to the thread, most thought it was a fair price.
| Make/Model | Tie Rod Replacement (Labor AND Parts) |
|---|---|
| BMW | $220 to $450 |
| Chevrolet Trailblazer | $155 to $350 |
| Chevy Impala | $250 to $350 |
| Dodge Caravan | $250 to $350 |
| Ford Escape | $200 to $430 |
| Ford F-150 | $220 to $320 |
| Ford Focus | $125 to $300 |
| Ford Ranger | $260 to $375 |
| Honda Accord | $275 to $380 |
| Honda Odyssey | $175 to $325 |
| Jeep Wrangler | $250 to $400 |
| Mazda 3 | $175 to $250 |
| Nissan Altima | $230 to $300 |
| Pontiac G6 | $210 to $300 |
| Volkswagen Jetta | $150 to $250 |
NOTE: These quotes came from various mechanic quotes and forum threads.
Tie rod replacement overview
To diagnose a tie rod problem, a mechanic will check the undercarriage for any sign of steering or suspension failure. If the tie rod is faulty, meaning, any movement in the ball-in-socket area is damaged, then it will be considered a loss and the mechanic will want to fix the issue. From there, once the tie rod has been removed, he or she will then pay close attention to the ends to see if there’s a presence of any steering fluid. If so, this would mean the steering rack is failing as well and will need to be replaced during the repair.
During a replacement, the mechanic will lift the car and remove the wheels to verify which tie rod has gone bad. Either the inner and/or outer tie rod will be replaced, and the suspension and steering systems will be inspected as well to make sure no parts are damaged. If so, the steering gearbox and/or rack will have to be replaced during this time as well. Once the tie rods have been replaced and greased, mechanics will always recommend a four-wheel alignment. Lastly, the mechanic will test drive the vehicle to make sure it properly turns and handles without any shaking or force.
What are the extra costs?
As noted above, if there’s steering fluid noted inside of the tie rod ends, the steering rack will need to be replaced. The steering rack, depending on the car you drive, can be anywhere from as little as $300 to more than $2,000.
In some cases, there could be the chance of damaging the steering gear if force is applied to the rod. While it’s rare, the damage would mean you would have to replace it, which is usually in the $600 to $900 range.
If the tire alignment is included in the quote, this could be an additional $50 to $75.
Tips to know:
Signs of a faulty tie rod will include tires wearing out quicker than usual, a misaligned car, often pulling to one side, a shaky steering wheel while driving and/or the car refuses to realign, even after an alignment. If you notice any of these problems, it’s important to have your steering system and tie rods checked out. If the mechanic finds out the tie rods are broken, then it’s important to fix them immediately. The longer you wait to resolve this issue, the costlier it could be in the future.
How can I save money?
If purchasing parts online for a do it yourself job, consider using auto part search engines online. Amazon.com and AutoPartsWarehouse.com are both great resources to find parts that suit your needs.
How Much Does a Tibetan Mastiff Cost?
The Tibetan Mastiff is a dog breed with a long and interesting history. Originating in Central Asia, this dog is commonly referred to as a “guard dog.” Its ability to guard herds, flocks and villages has made it a number one choice for many villages in the past. Today, this type of dog is used as a guard dog or as a simple household pet. Although this breed does have the word “Mastiff” associated with it, bear in mind that it is not a true mastiff.
How much does a Tibetan Mastiff cost?
The cost of a Tibetan Mastiff is going to widely vary depending on the age, the breeder, the quality, its bloodline and inclusions with the adoption. From our research, most ads for puppies we found were in the $1,000 and $4,500 range. Puppies registered with the AKC that came from a show-quality parent would be in the $3,000 to $4,000 range, whereas a backyard breeder offering no paperwork would list their puppies for about $700 to $1,100.
A Chinese businessman once bought a Tibetan Mastiff for a whopping $1.5 million. The reason the dog sold for this high price tag was due to the fact that it was deemed a “perfect specimen.”
For example, at the time of this writing, PuppyFind.com had a bit more than 100 listings, with prices ranging anywhere from $750 to more than $3,500. Most of the listings we had looked at included a health guarantee, vet examination, health certification, pedigree paperwork and a travel crate if needed.
We checked also checked out a few breeders on the AKC Marketplace and had found the prices for a puppy from AKC registered parents would cost $1,500 to $3,000, with females often costing a few hundred dollars more.
Tibetanmastiffinfo.com offers an in-depth FAQ section saying the average Tibetan Mastiff will be around the $1,500 to $3,500 range.
What is going to be included in the adoption fee?
A reputable breed should include a health certificate, written health guarantee, up-to-date vaccinations, a deworming, a microchip and/or spay/neutering.
If the dog is an AKC, the breeder must provide the paperwork to show its authenticity. There are also dogs that may have an RN title as well.
What are the extra costs?
Due to the rarity of this particular breed, most owners will find that they will have to purchase a dog outside of their area. Because of this, most breeders are going to charge a shipping fee, and this fee can range anywhere from $150 to $400 to have a dog shipped via an airline.
Because this breed is known to be stubborn, it is highly recommended that a new owner enrolls the dog in obedience classes to teach it, at a minimum, the basic commands like sit, lie down and stay. Failing to train this stronger breed can often lead to destruction or failing to abide by your commands. In the end, positive reinforcement will be the best for this breed.
While the dog omits very little odors, its undercoat will shed once per year. During this time, some Tibetan Mastiff take their dog to a professional groomer. Aside from this “blowout” time of year, it’s still recommended to brush their coats once per week to keep it healthy and clean. Even if it doesn’t seem like the coat needs it, brushing can stimulate the blood flow to your dog’s skin.
Recurring costs, as with any pet, such as food, shelter, accessories and routine/surprise vet visits. The average dog owner should budget at least $600 to $900 per year. Due to the dog’s larger-than-average size, it will consume four to six cups of food per day.
Tips to know:
The Tibetan Mastiff can typically stand as high as 30 inches and can weigh upwards of 175 pounds. Most have a double coat that comes in colors such as gold, brown, red or black.
The Tibetan Mastiff’s temperament is known to be mellow, calm, reserved and dedicated to their family. Oftentimes, these dogs will be very territorial of its surroundings.
When healthy, they can live 10 to 12 years.
The dog has a double coat, with the outer coat consisting of a thick, long coat that is coarse to the touch. The undercoat will be softer, making the breed very resistant to colder weather. Common colors include black and tan, pure black, gray and a golden brown.
For those who are living in close quarter situations such as an apartment, most experts will recommend they steer clear of this breed and consider another since they prefer a large yard to roam around. Next Day Pets recommends limiting their exercise routine since they are prone to joint problems due to their size.
Due to the size of this dog, most Tibetan Mastiffs will do best with older children that know how to act around pets.
As the dog grows older, it tends to become rather calm and will keep to himself. While these dogs may look aggressive, they are usually friendly unless provoked.
Commonly health concerns include canine hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, entropion and seizures.
The Tibetan is usually good with other pets when raised when them.
They will not do well in a warmer climate due to their thicker coats; however, it doesn’t mean they won’t survive. During the warmer months, they may become inactive or you may see a decrease in their appetites.
How can I save money?
Breeders often offer younger pups, and do not let this discourage you if you want to adopt an older dog. Older dogs will often be a lot cheaper than a younger puppy. Consider talking with local breeders or shelters to see what they have to offer.
How Much Does Fieldstone Cost?
Fieldstone is a natural stone with a rustic look, occurring in various colors, including brown, gray, lilac and moss. This material can be used for an exterior wall, fireplace, as a patio or as a stepping stone.
How much does fieldstone cost?
On average, fieldstone can be purchased anywhere from $80 to as much as $180 per ton. The price will depend on your geographical location, the type and where you purchase it.
For example, Oaklawn-Timber-Stone.com, a supplier that sells fieldstone in Tennessee, sells different types of fieldstone, including thin stack, thick cap and aslar end pieces. The price of the fieldstone depends on the type and the amount, but the costs, according to the website, ranges anywhere from $89 to $169 per ton.
Mike’s Landscaping Supplies, a supplier located in Maryland, lists its pricing on their website. According to the website, they charge by the pallet, and the costs, regardless of the thickness, will cost $255 per pallet.
On Houzz.com, forum members discussed the prices of Pennsylvania fieldstone. According to most, the prices ranged anywhere from $128 to $200 per ton, but many agreed a ton wasn’t much when it showed up for delivery.
Fieldstone overview
If buying from a supplier, most will either charge by the ton or by the pallet, which weighs about one and a half tons on average. Most of your fieldstone at a local supplier will already be cut to size and will come in thicknesses ranging from one to eight inches thick. The stone will commonly be marked and will be intended to be used either for forming a wall, a patio or as a stepping stone. Depending on the supplier, some may also offer boulders in its natural form. Keep in mind, however, that the larger the stones are naturally, the more it can cost. In its natural form, fieldstone is usually flatter than other stones, coming in a mix of oval or rounded rectangles.
What are the extra costs?
For any type of landscaping job, you may need to hire a professional landscaper to work with. Fieldstone is commonly used to create walls or a patio. To have a professional install a fieldstone wall, for example, the costs could be in the $12 to $19 per square foot range. Installing a fieldstone patio can be in the $10 to $20 per square foot range. If hiring a professional, the costs will depend on the scope of your project, the contractor you hire and where you live. If you want an exact quote for your project, we highly advise you use free bid services like HomeAdvisor.com. Here, you simply describe your job and contracts will offer a ballpark estimate for free.
Some landscape suppliers may charge a delivery fee if they have to deliver outside of their area or you don’t meet the minimum requirement spend.
Tips to know:
Fieldstone can be cut or split depending on the need of the construction. You can order large stones, small stones, or a combination of the two. If you prefer the stones to look more natural, you should purchase small stones rather than large ones to make sure that they retain the shape and size; this looks more natural than the large ones that have been cut.
Due to the stone’s inconsistent size and shape, it can make it hard to install. The inconsistency can also create an uneven surface if installed on a patio or used as a stepping stone.
Northeast Stone Works says one square foot one inch thick will weigh 14 pounds.
How can I save money?
To save money, look for a dealer close to your area. This will reduce the cost of the delivery.
You can mix fieldstone with other construction materials or combine it with each other stones for varying effects. For example, you can use fieldstone on the lower part of the wall while the upper half is simply painted.










