How Much Does an Oak Tree Cost?
Oak trees come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re looking for one for your yard or growing one from a seedling, the costs will depend on the size, species, quality and where it’s being purchased from.
How much does an oak tree cost?
According to NatureHills.com and the State of Minnesota, there are many types of oak trees. A Black Oak, for example, will range anywhere from $15 to $25 for a tree anywhere from 6 to 18 inches tall.
A Bur Oak will cost $20 to $100.
A Chestnut Oak will cost anywhere from $13 to $35.
A Cherrybark will vary anywhere from $15 to $25.
A Northern Red Oak will cost anywhere from an average of $15 to $60.
A Nuttall Oak can cost as much as $20 to $40.
A Pin Oak ranges from $16 to $100.
A Sawtooth Oak costs anywhere from $10 to $90.
A Southern Red Oak will run anywhere from $9 to $45.
A Swamp Oak can cost $20 to $70.
A Water Oak can be as much as $15 to $30.
A Willow Oak can cost as much as $12 to $35.
The seeds can cost anywhere from $1 to $10 per 100 seeds.
A mature oak tree taller than 10 feet can start at $1,000 and go from there. The cost of a larger tree will depend on the diameter.
A forum member on TexAgs.com was quoted about $3,500 an oak tree with a 14-inch diameter.
Types of oak trees
Red Oak Trees
These species include willow, black, Japanese evergreen oak, water oak and pin oak. These trees will have red leaves with pointed lobes and tiny bristles on the tip. It can take up to two years for the acorns to mature.
White Oak Trees
These species include chinkapin, pot oak, blur oak and white oak. The leaves are white with a rounded and smooth look. These acorns can mature in one year and will sprout as soon as they fall to the ground.
What are the extra costs?
Purchasing from a nursery online may incur some shipping charges. The larger the tree is, the more you’re going to have to pay.
If you want to get the tree planted by a professional, this can cost upwards of a few hundred dollars. Use sites such as HomeAdvisor to find contractors in your area.
In the future, the cost to remove a large oak tree can be anywhere from $150 to more than $1,500.
Trimming an oak tree as it grows beyond 20 feet can cost between $200 to $1,000.
Tips to know:
Oak trees can live up to more than 200 years. The trunk’s circumference can also grow to more than 32 feet. This is why it’s important to plan before planting this tree to ensure it will have the appropriate amount of room to grow.
A mature oak tree can draw more than 50 gallons of water per day. It’s important these trees are giving the proper amount of nutrients, sun and plant food to ensure that they grow properly. If it doesn’t produce the appropriate amount of nutrients, the tree won’t grow.
Once the tree gets to be about 20 years old, it will start to produce acorns. It’s not uncommon to see them reach the age of 50 before producing them. Once the tree gets close to the age of 80, the tree will start to product thousands of acorns.
Before planting, determine the oak tree’s growth and make sure it won’t grow into any nearby obstacles such as power lines.
Before planting, test the soil’s pH level to see if its adequate enough to grow an oak tree. It’s also best to determine how much sun your tree will receive. These trees will need, at a minimum, at least four to six hours of sun.
How can I save money?
Consider comparing prices at various nurseries as you’re going to find that they will all vary in price.
The larger the tree is, the more you’re going to pay. If you have the patience to watch your tree grow, consider starting it young.
How Much Does Mahogany Wood Cost?
Mahogany wood is one of the top choices when it comes to a wood species. Mahogany wood can often be used for kitchen cabinets, hardwood floors and even as decking material. Mahogany is a hardwood from Central America, Asia and South America. Aside from its construction uses, it can also be used to craft furniture.
How much does mahogany wood cost?
The cost of mahogany wood will depend on the quality, the finish, how it’s going to be used and where it’s purchased from. Unfinished mahogany wood will cost about $6 to $30 per board foot, depending on the species, while flooring and/or decking pieces can cost about $6 to $10 per square foot.
According to SegmentedTurning.com, one piece of 4×4 wood can range anywhere from $4.30 to as much as $8+.
A supplier, such as AdvantageLumber, sells a 4×4 for $6 each. They also have a 5×4 available for $6 as well.
With hardwood flooring, a supplier, such as WoodWorkersSource, has mahogany wood ranging anywhere from $7 for a simple sample all the way up to $65 per board. They also have 20-piece packages available for $250+ per pack.
Mahogany cabinets can vary anywhere from $25 to $45 per board.
Aside from construction pieces, mahogany wood dining plates can cost $25 to $55 per plate.
Furniture, such as a mahogany conference table, can cost $250 to $1,200.
This Old House says mahogany can be the most expensive wood on the market, and some people will pay up to $28 per board foor for a Cuban or West Indian mahogany board.
What are the extra costs?
Installing a deck, hardwood flooring and more can get rather expensive if contracting it out. Be sure to consider labor costs. Most contractors start at $20+ an hour and go from there. Consider using Home Advisor to find the cheapest contractor in your area. Here, you can describe your project and contractors will email you with a quote.
Simple cuts can be made at local lumber yards and at bigger home improvement stores. If a customized cut needs to be made, additional fees may apply. Custom cuts are usually $10 to $15.
Paint, stain or varnish will be needed if you require a final finish. Most floors or decks will require a coat of primer and stain/paint to ensure it lasts.
If a lumber yard has to deliver the wood, this can be an additional cost.
Tips to know:
To ensure that the wood is Mahogany, you’ll want to look closely at the pattern. The thing about Mahogany wood is it’s going to have smaller ovals, which are known as ellipses. Be sure to pay close attention to see if the ovals line up in neat rows rather than all over the place. It’s fairly common to find wood described as Mahogany, but in turn, it’s another type of wood. If you’re unsure the wood is truly mahogany, most experts at the lumber yard will be able to confirm. The last thing that they want to do is lie and ruin their company reputation.
Philippine mahogany, for example, isn’t mahogany at all and aren’t part of the mahogany family.
How can I save money?
If the job is going to be smaller, consider looking for wood on clearance. Some may only need a little polish.
How Much Does a Game Boy Cost?
The Gameboy, manufactured by Nintendo has been around since 1989. Throughout the years, the Gameboy line has transformed greatly. Some of the models out there is the Game Boy Pocket, Advanced and Pocket.
How much are typical game boy prices?
The very first original Nintendo Game Boy can cost anywhere from $20 used to $150 new since it is rather rare to find new.
The Game Boy Advanced SP comes in various colors and ranges anywhere from $160 new to $40 used.
The Game Boy Micro costs anywhere from $80 to $100.
An older model, the Game Boy Color, can range anywhere from $35 to $80 used. To purchase new, it’s rather rare and can cost up to $500.
The Game Boy Advance comes in many colors. The White model, for example, comes with a price tag ranges from $35 to $75 used.
The Game Boy Pocket can cost anywhere from $20 to $85 used.
| Model | Game Boy Price |
|---|---|
| Original Game Boy | $25 to $50 |
| Game Boy Pocket | $15 to $25 |
| Game Boy Light | $130 to $300 (considered to be rare) |
| Game Boy Color | $15 to $35 |
| Game Boy Advance | $19 to $120 (depends on color) |
| Game Boy Advance SP | $45 to $100 |
| Game Boy micro | $45 to $100 |
What is going to be included in the packaging?
Depending on the model, most consoles will come with a wall charger.
Some kits, depending on the model, may also come with a game.
Newer models are going to come equipped with some sort of warranty that can last upwards of 12 months.
Game Boy types
Classic (released in 1989)
Larger and thicker compared to most, the classic version has a screen that takes up the top portion. Lower part will contain the controls and speaker. The backside will accept the original game boy cartridges. It has no backlight, 4 channel audio, 4.19 MHz 8-bit custom Sharp LR 35902 processor and 8 kB VRAM. It will take four AA batteries.
Pocket (released in 1996)
Smaller than the classic, the pocket is more compact. With a lighter and thinner design, the screen and controls are almost in the same spots as the classic. It has no backlight, 4 channel audio, 4.19 MHz 8-bit custom Sharp LR 35902 processor and 8 kB VRAM. It will take two AAA batteries.
Color: (released in 1998)
Designed as the first game boy to play games in color, this model has a faster processor. The controls remained the same. It has no backlight, 4 channel audio, 4 or 8MHz 8-bit processor and up to 32kB of RAM. This game boy will need two AA batteries.
Advance: (released in 2001)
Wider and larger than the Color and Pocket, the Advance allows you to use both hands on the right and left-hand side of the screen. The screen is located in the middle. It has no backlight, six-channel audio, a 16.8 MHz 32-bit ARM7TDMI processor and 245 kB WRAM. It requires two AA batteries.
Advance SP: (released in 2003)
Similar to the Advance, the SP has a collapsible screen for protection. It has a frontlight on/off backlight, six-channel audio, a 16.8 MHz 32-bit ARM7TDMI processor and 245 kB WRAM. It has a rechargeable 700 mAh lithium-ion battery.
Micro: (released in 2005)
The newest model out of all game boys, the micro is lighter and sleeker compared to most. Able to fit in your pocket, this is the smallest out of all of them. It has a frontlight on/off backlight, six-channell audio, a 16.8 MHz 32-bit ARM7TDMI processor and 245 kB WRAM. It has a rechargeable 460 mAh lithium-ion battery.
What are the extra costs?
There are many accessories you’re going to more than likely have to purchase such as a car charger and a case .
In order to play games, the games will have to be purchased separately as well. These games prices can start at $1 used and go up from there depending on the title you want to purchase.
Vintage game boys, such as the original one, can cost more due to the rarity of the item.
To protect your investment, consider purchasing an extended warranty through companies such as SquareTrade. That way, if something does happen, you’ll be protected.
Tips to know
The best selling game for the Game Boy? Pokemon Ruby and Saphhire; it sold 13 million combined.
How can I save money?
Consider purchase buying your games used. Websites, such as Amazon and eBay, have a great selection for a low price.
Also, consider purchasing the console used. Older models are going to cost a lot less, sometimes up to 70% off the MSRP. When purchasing used, just make sure that you do your homework to ensure that the console works properly.
Since some of these models are older, you will find that you can get great deals at local garage sales. Also, check out various flea markets in the area to see if you can snag a packaged deal.
How Much Does a Gallon Of Paint Cost?
Paint can be used in many various ways. Whether you’re painting a bedroom, the outside of a home, the deck or even a car, there are so many places that you can use it.
How much does a gallon of paint cost?
The average cost of paint will range anywhere from $20 to as much as $100 per gallon.
According to Home Depot, paint designed for concrete, basements, and the garage floor will vary from $30 to $300. For example, the Sure Step 1 Gallon Clear Acrylic runs around $30 per gallon.
that can take the dimensions of your room and recommend the right amount of paint you would need to purchase. For example, a 10′ x 10′ room would require around 3 gallons for the walls and around 1 gallon to paint the ceilings.
Your Faux and Decorative Pain varies anywhere from $12 to as much as $50.
A gallon of BEHR Premium Plus costs around $35.
A plain, typical interior paint will vary greatly depending on the brand and the quality preferred. Prices vary anywhere from $10 to $75 a gallon. Brands, such as YOLO Colorhouse, can run about $40 a gallon.
Exterior paint ranges anywhere from $30 to $100. The Insl-X series, for instance, can be as much as $50+.
Paint used for marine-related items or your pool can range anywhere from $30 to $75. For example, a gallon of Insl-X Black paint is $40 a gallon.
Waterproofing paint is usually a little higher compared to most other paints. This paint can range anywhere from $20 to $115 per gallon. Thompson’s WaterSeal paint is $60 a gallon.
| Brand of Paint | Price Range per Gallon |
|---|---|
| Ace Paint | $31 to $39 |
| Behr | $29 to $35 |
| Benjamin Moore | $48 to $55 |
| California | $39 to $47 |
| Dunn Edwards | $15 to $35 |
| Gidden | $38 to $45 |
| Kelly-Moore | $43 to $49 |
| Olympic | $25 to $30 |
| Pittsburgh Paints | $47 to $54 |
| Rhino Shield | $15 to $35 |
| Sherwin-Williams | $44 to $55 |
| Valspar | $30 to $40 |
| YOLO | $37 to $48 |
NOTE: Most of the averages noted above are for a basic Eggshell paint. The average gallon of paint can cover anywhere from 325 to as much as 450 square feet.
How much paint to buy:
Figuring out how much paint you need isn’t really that hard. While each room is going to have windows, doors, and trim, it’s best to measure the entire room. Measure the length by width. Multiply this number, and this will be your square footage. For example, a wall 12 feet wide with 10-foot ceiling will be 120 square feet.
The average gallon of paint can cover at least 325 square feet. For every door and window you have in your room, it’s best to subtract 10 to 15 square feet to play it safe.
Remember you should always measure ahead of time so you don’t buy extra gallons. By purchasing extra gallons, you may not be able to return them back to the store.
What are the extra costs?
Since all painting jobs are different, you will need a brush, a tarp to protect the flooring and a mask to protect your lungs from fumes. Supplies, on top of the paint, can cost you $20 to $100+ extra.
Paint samples can commonly cost anywhere from $1 to $5 for a tiny pint sized bucket. These samples are ideal for those who don’t know what type of paint that they want on their walls. Simply brush the paint on the wall to get a good idea of what it’s going to look like.
Customized paints that don’t match up to the colors that are already offered may cost extra. With today’s technology, most of your bigger retailers can match paint to just about anything. They will put the color into the machine and the appropriate paint color code will be selected.
Hiring a professional painter can vary in pricing depending on the job. A painter will charge based on the square footage, the height of the ceiling, the number of coats and complexity of the job. Many painters will charge per day or per job.
How can I save money?
Consider purchasing your paint in larger quantities. 5-gallon paint cans will be cheaper than a 1-gallon paint bucket.
If you’re going to a chain, such as Home Depot or Lowe’s, look for 10% off coupons on eBay to save 10% on your purchase.
Bigger stores such as Sherwin Williams also have 40% off sales every so often. This is a great day to take advantage of the savings.
Don’t try to be too cheap with your paints. The cheaper the paint is, the cheaper the quality may be. Studies have shown paints in the mid-grade to higher-end price ranges usually tend to be best in terms of quality.
How Much Does an eBay Store Cost?
If you want to have a store online and you don’t have the money for a website, or you simply want to use eBay’s storefront, an eBay store is a great way to reach millions of people daily. If you want to open up a store, there are going to be many fees depending on what type of eBay store you want to open.
How much are eBay store fees?
With an eBay store, the fees will be calculated based on the insertion fees, final value fees, if you want an upgrade your listing and if you use supplemental services. With insertion fees, you will be charged per listing, per category. Once the item sells, you will pay this insertion fee. The final value fee will be calculated based on the final sale price. As an option, if you plan on advancing your listing, upgrades are available for a fee. The base price for the store, depending on the type you choose, can start at $20 to $300 per month. This won’t include any insertion or final value fees.
As for the store fees, there are three options you can choose from: basic, premium and anchor. There are also two subscription options: monthly, where you’re charged monthly, and yearly, which will automatically renew each year.
| Store | Monthly Fee (per month) | Yearly Fee (per month) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $24.95 | $19.95 |
| Premium | $74.95 | $59.95 |
| Anchor | $349.95 | $299.95 |
The insertion fees, as of 2016, are as follows:
| Store | Number of free insertions for fixed auction | Number of free insertions for auction style | Auction style Insertion fee (credited back if item sells) | Fixed price insertion fee (credited back if item sells) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | 250 | 250 | $0.25 | $0.20 |
| Premium | 1,000 | 500 | $0.15 | $0.10 |
| Anchor | 10,000 | 1,000 | $0.10 | $0.05 |
As for final value fees, the price will depend on the category, but for most categories, plan on deducting four to nine percent of the final value, with a maximum fee of $250.
eBay store overview
eBay offers three store levels: basic, premium and anchor. Each store will have its own differences and can be explained here. All levels will include a store home page, customized web address, featured items, store categories, branding opportunities, subscriber discounts, management tools, an HTML builder, emailing marketing tools, promotional flyers and templates.
In order to open a store, sellers must have a PayPal Verified account at a minimum. Higher levels will require a standard performance rating.
With an eBay store, you can either sell the items via an auction format or if you choose, you can have a fixed price where the bidder can buy it now. An eBay store is a central shopping destination where buyers can learn about your products. eBay will also include tools, such as marketing and reporting features, to help your store become successful.
As a store user, you will also receive a “red door icon” next to your name.
What are the extra costs?
Scheduling your listing will cost an additional $0.10.
Using the listing designer can cost $0.10 to $0.60, depending on the item’s value.
Subtitles can cost $0.50 to $3.
Creating a bold listing can cost $2 to $6.
Adding a buy it now option can be $0.05 to $0.25, depending on the value.
Adding a reserve price can be $3 to 4% of the value.
Using a one or three-day listing can be an additional $1.
If you don’t pay your fees on time, late charges may apply.
Tips to know
Insertion fees and advanced listing fees will be charged at the time of the listing.
Andrew Minalto breaks down the advantages and disadvantages of an eBay store. Some of these advantages include lower fees, a Good ‘Til Cancelled format, holiday mode, an opportunity to establish your brand, a markdown manager, organization tools and search engine keyword management.
How can I save money?
If you’re not going to sell a lot of items, you may be better off selling the items one by one rather than creating a store.
If you have the money to do so, you may want to consider creating your own website. You can implement your feeds with services such as Google Product Search to increase your visibility. On top of the product search, consider learning the trade of PPC or SEO. Both of these strategies can commonly help those that want to gain exposure through search engines and more. This is a great way to draw traffic without having to worry about paying outrageous fees each and every month.
Don’t forget to compare other alternatives such as Amazon Pro Merchant and Yahoo! Small Business.
How Much Does a Cactus Cost?
While most cacti are found in the western states or in warmer climates, you may want to purchase one for your yard or maybe even one for your home. If you want to purchase a cactus for your home, it can grow as long as it has the proper attention and the appropriate climate / sunlight.
How much does a cactus cost?
The cost of a cactus will depend on the type, its size, where you purchase it from and the quality.
Seeds, such as a Mixed Melocactus, can be as little as $2 to $5 for as many as 20 seeds.
A smaller Golden Barrel Cactus can cost anywhere from $6 to $20.
Little Baby Cactus that grow in a one-inch pot can vary anywhere from $3 to $10.
One of the most popular cacti — a Prickly Pear — can vary anywhere from $4 for a small one, up to $20+ for a larger one that would be planted in your yard.
According to ElNopailto.com, a 1-gallon cactus varies anywhere from $15 to $75 plus shipping.
An older Saguaro Cactus can be as much as $5,000. The more arms a cactus has, the higher the value is since it distinguishes its age.
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Agave Cactus | $30 (5 gallon) |
| Argentine Toothpick | $45 to $100 |
| Arizona Organ Pipe | $50 (5 gallon) to $150 (15 gallon) |
| Beavertail | $8 to $15 |
| Blue Candle | $8 to $90 |
| Cardon | $45 to $65 (5 gallon) |
| Chenille | $8 to $60 |
| Cereus Hankianus | $25 (15 inches) to $2,500+ (24 feet) |
| Cereus Hildmannianus | $35 per 5 gallon |
| Cereus Peruvianus Monstrosa | $35 to $100 |
| Cow's Tongue | $15 to $60 |
| Christmas Cactus | $5 to $35 |
| Diamond Cholla | $15 to $35 (5 gallon) |
| Elephant Ear | $15 to $35 (5 gallon) |
| Fishhook Barrel | $40 to $100 |
| Flabby Pincushion | $8 to $30 |
| Golden Barrel | $10 (1 gallon) to $85 (5 gallon) |
| Golden Torch | $300 to $500 (24-inch box) |
| Lady Finger | $30 to $50 |
| Mexican Claret Cup | $35 to $90 |
| Ocotillo | $45 to $75 |
| Octopus Cactus | $8 (1 gallon) to $75 (15 gallon) |
| Pine Cone | $7 to $34 |
| Purple (Opuntia Rufida) | $8 (5 gallon) to $75 (15 gallon) |
| Saguaro Cactus | $25 (15 inches) to $2,500+ (24 feet) |
| San Pedro | $40 to $130 |
| Senita | $35 to $150 |
| Strawberry Hedgehog | $40 to $100 |
| Texas Blue Barrel | $8 to $35 |
| Texas Santa Rita | $8 to $95 |
| Torch Cactus | $20 to $35 (1 gallon) |
| Totem Cactus | $40 to $100 |
| White Bunny Ear | $6 to $50 |
| White Paper Spine | $8 to $40 |
Cactus overview
Smaller plants are going to come equipped with a pot. Most of the ones you have in your home will need this pot in order to grow.
Depending on who you purchase from, some companies may include fertilizer and cactus food.
Some nurseries, depending on how much you spend, may include delivery and professional planting.
Cactus can be purchased at your local home improvement retailers or if you live in a climate that can accommodate them, they can also be available at these specialized nurseries.
What are the extra costs?
Like many plants, these pants are going to require maintenance. It will be required you help give them food or even fertilizer in order to ensure that they grow at the appropriate rate. Many nurseries may include this as a starter package. Keep in mind as time goes on, it will be highly recommended to pick up a new bag of fertilizer to ensure proper growth.
If you want to purchase online, be sure to look into the shipping costs. The bigger the Cactus is, the more you may have to pay in order to ship it.
Special pottery to pot some of the smaller cacti will be required. The cost of a pot will depend on the type you want. You can purchase one as little as $5 or spend thousands if you wanted something customized.
Larger cacti will often need to be planted professionally. If the nursery doesn’t include this in their quote, you may have to spend upwards of $100 to $250 per cactus, depending on the complexity and size.
Tips to know:
It’s best to give your cactus fertilizer every 14 days. Each cactus is going to react to the sun and weather in different ways. Be sure to ask a gardener or even refer to a guide online to assure your cactus lives a long, healthy life.
Overwatering is one of the most common ways to kill a cactus. To measure the water absorption, stick a wooden pencil in the soil. If the soil sticks to the pencil, it’s best not to give the cactus any more water.
Harming or even destroying a saguaro cactus is illegal in states such as Arizona. If one has to be transported, a special permit is required.
Some desert distributors may not ship out of state, so before you make the purchase, be sure to check ahead of time.
How can I save money?
Check listings on Craigslist online. You will find some people want to get rid of Cactus in their yard. You may have to remove them, but after the labor, you may not have to pay a penny. Other online retailers, such as BloomingBulb.com, have a great assortment that can be delivered straight to your door.
Check for local sales at nurseries. Many have liquidation sales where they get rid of plants at a low price.
Some nurseries may offer packs of six or more. Purchasing in bulk is a great way to add to your collection and save money at the same time.
How Much Does a CPAP Machine Cost?
According to CPAP.com, CPAP machines help with sleep apnea by blowing “air at a pressure high enough to keep your airway open during sleep.” All CPAP machines blow air at the same rate; APAP machines adjust depending on your breathing patterns, and BiPAP machines use different powers for inhalation and exhalation according to your breathing pattern.
How much does a CPAP machine cost?
A CPAP machine will cost $500 to $2,800, and this price depends on the functions and the capabilities of the machine. The cost of the initial setup for new patients will often be between $1,500 to $3,800. This will include the machine, humidifier, heated hose, mask and filters. Most of the time, you may have to purchase the tubing and mask separately.
An APAP (auto-CPAP) machine will cost $400 to $1,200.
A BiPAP machine will cost $800 to $6,000.
Those who want to rent will pay about $250 to $350 per month for a good CPAP unit.
For example, the ResMed S9 AutoSet APAP is a machine that ensures sleep disorder patients receive the appropriate therapy and pressure. This machine will offer the maximum sleep comfort. This particular machine retails for $800 to $900.
According to the website Youneedsleep.com, they list machines and other tools which may be needed. Essentially, the machines listed here cost around $499.
CPAP machine overview
All CPAP machines will or will not come with the hose and mask needed for delivering oxygen.
All CPAP machines will come with a manual; some will also come with a limited manufacturer’s warranty.
Some CPAP machines have a built-in humidifier.
CPAP machines have multiple power sources, ranging from a battery to plugging it in.
Some CPAP machines come with software which allows you to update your machine.
More advanced CPAP machines have features such as auto shut-off, timers and auto altitude adjustment.
A machine has a quiet operation that gives you the least amount of decibels of just around 26db to as high as 30db.
What are the extra costs?
Eventually, the masks and hoses will need to be replaced. This can be an additional $250 to $350.
Filters, which are important in filtering the air that comes outside of the machine entering the hose, will need to be replaced every six months.
Travel sets can be purchased, including plugs which will fit in a car power adapter.
Due to the size of the machine, additional accessories, such as a holder and/or specialized pillow, may be required. This will all depend on the setup and how the patient will use it while sleeping.
Additional repairs may be needed down the road. Depending on the severity of the repairs, a simple on-call exam can start at $50.
Perhaps the most noted extra accessory you have to pay for is using the humidifier. These machines will typically not be part of the main equipment, but you can buy this as part of the package. The humidifier is responsible for increasing the air’s moisture as it is delivered through the mask. Depending on the type, this can cost anywhere from $25 to $50.
Tips to know:
A CPAP machine and therapy won’t necessarily cure the problem. It’s still wise to work with a sleep specialist, even if you have this type of machine in your home.
Before purchasing one online, be sure to consult with a professional doctor, preferably the one you’re using right now to pick out the best machine that will work for your home. This way, you will be able to purchase one that is not only recommended but supported by the local hospital.
A doctor’s prescription will be required to obtain a PAP. On this prescription, it will tell what pressure and type of machine you need.
There are very few side effects associated with this machine. These side effects may include irritation around the skin from the mask and dryness in the mouth, nose and throat area.
Top brands to consider:
Devilbiss
Drive Medical
Fisher Paykel
ResMed
Respironics
How can I save money?
Many insurance companies will cover the cost of a CPAP machine if prescribed by a doctor. However, most insurances will only cover the basic machine; any extras will have to be covered by the consumer. Medicare will cover a three-month trial if you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea.
CPAP machines can be rented instead of being purchased. In fact, some insurance companies may require you to rent a machine for a limited time before making the purchase.
CPAP machines can be purchased used through websites such as CPAPAuction.com or SecondWindCPAP.com.
If your insurance won’t cover the machine and you don’t have the money to buy one, SleepDr.com lists a few organizations who provide low-cost machines.
You should try on as many masks as possible to get the best fit.
How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost?
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Driveways can come in a variety of materials. A dirt or gravel driveway will be the cheapest, while an asphalt driveway will be a mid-grade option. A concrete driveway will be the most expensive option for most; however, it will also be the best in terms of quality and will be the most durable.
How much does a concrete driveway cost?
The cost of a concrete drive will be between $4 to $15 per square foot, and this cost will depend on the length of the driveway, type of concrete, the complexity of the setup/foundation, the geographical location, and the contractor you’re using. Therefore, a driveway that is 1,000 square feet will cost $4,000 to $15,000 to complete. The more stable the foundation, the less likely the driveway is to crack and fall apart.
Angie’s List says contractors who use the best material will often charge $7 to $10 per square foot.
| Type | Inclusions | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Simple colors with a finish. Basic border may be included. | $5 to $14 per square foot |
| Middle of Road | Engraved concrete with up to three different colors. May also include a stained finish. | $14 to $20 per square foot |
| Luxury | Luxurious designs such as chemical stain accents, patterns and stain finishes. May also include hand-crafted accents. | $20+ per square foot |
Factors that affect the price:
The Type
As mentioned in the chart above, the type of driveway can greatly affect the price. Heavier cars parked on the driveway will usually command higher prices.
Measurements
The longer and wider a driveway is, the more it’s going to cost. In order to get a fairly decent ballpark price, grab a measuring tape and measure the width by length.
Approach
The way your driveway connects to the road can bring up the price. If the driveway doesn’t flush nicely with the road, it can bring the price up.
Manual Labor
How much manual labor is required where the concrete mixers can’t reach?
Preparation
How much work is involved in making sure the driveway drains properly? The more preparation needed, the most it can cost.
Distance
If your home is more than 25 miles from the nearest concrete plant, a mileage surcharge, along with higher contractor fees will more than apply.
Concrete driveway overview
Most concrete companies, when estimating your job, will include all job levels. This includes breaking up and disposing of the old driveway, laying the foundation, and pouring the concrete for the driveway.
Concrete driveways should be laid using proper drainage techniques to ensure the no water sits on the driveway.
Concrete driveways should also have stress cracks, usually built in a rectangular pattern, to aid in the expansion and contraction of the concrete in different temperatures.
During the procedure, the contractor will remove all the vegetation and grass within the area where the driveway is to be installed. Once removed, wood planks will be set on the sides for the boundaries of the driveway. After the wood plank borders have been installed, the concrete will be poured by a local cement company. Under the concrete will be welded wires to ensure the concrete is staying reinforced. Once the cement has been poured, workers will level the concrete and let it dry overnight. You should be able to use the driveway within a few days.
What are the extra costs?
If you would like a special border, such as brick pavers, this will be an extra cost. This can be an additional $2 to $6 per square foot, depending on the finish.
Some companies do not include the breaking apart and disposing of the old driveway and may charge extra for this service.
Adding stains, a stamped finish or another type of finish can add to the final price. While optional, these finishes will just add a decorative touch. This can cost an additional $1 to $2 per square foot.
Don’t forget about repairs in the future. Resurfacing, which can replace the top layer, can often cost $200 to $1,000, depending on the damage done. Another repair, such as replacing the cracks, can cost $300 to $600, depending on the scope of the project. Power washing and sealing can be another $500 to $1,300, depending on the size of the driveway and the type of sealer being used.
Heating your driveway, which uses a boiler system and flexible tubing, can increase the costs by $4 to $9 per square foot.
Tips to know:
On average, a concrete driveway can last anywhere from 25 to as long as 50 years. This is going to greatly depend on how well the driveway was built. Out of all the material that you can use, concrete tends to be the best.
Aside from concrete being a durable material, there are also many decorative options available. These decorative options can give your driveway an appearance that different than most.
Once a concrete driveway has been laid out, it’s best to lay a driveway sealant every year to ensure that the driveway can hold up to things such as harsh weather and salt.
Questions to ask:
How many cars do you want to fit in the driveway?
How wide do you want the driveway to be? Do you want it to be one car wide? Two? Three?
How far away is the house from the main road? It’s important to remember that widening a driveway can add onto the total cost.
What type of shape do you want? Concrete driveways can come in all shapes and sizes. A simple square driveway will be a lot cheaper than one that is curved and designed differently.
What type of concrete is going to be used? Concrete can come in different qualities. Make sure that the contractor is using concrete at least 2800 PSI.
How can I save money?
Portions, or all, of a concrete driveway job, can be done yourself instead of hiring a company.
If the cost of concrete is a problem, consider asphalt as a cheaper alternative. When comparing the asphalt vs concrete driveway cost, you will spend closer to $2 to $4 per square foot for asphalt.
Keep your driveway simple. If you want to have decorations and stains, the price can surely go up. But, if you stick with the simple concrete, plan on being on the lower end of the quotes.
Use services such as HomeAdvisor to find a contractor in your area. When you use a service such as this one, you will get quotes from many contractors in your area who can perform this job.
How Much Does Earthquake Insurance Cost?
If you live in an area that is bound to have earthquakes, you’re more than like going to want to protect your valuable assets such as your home and the belongings inside. Since many policies don’t include an earthquake policy, this will have to be purchased separately.
How much does earthquake insurance cost?
The cost of earthquake insurance will depend on the geographical area, the age of your home, the number of stories in your home, the soil type, the deductible you choose, the company and if you choose to add premiums. The average price is about $2,000 to $5,000 per year for the average 1,600 square foot home. Again, based on the factors mentioned prior, if your home was located near the San Andreas Fault, you would pay more than a home nowhere near it.
For example, according to UtahEarthquakeInsurance.com, if you had a home worth $200,000, you may pay around $28 per month extra with their policy.
In a state, such as California, where earthquakes are quite common, the average bill can vary from $450 to $3,500 a year, depending on the size of your home, the structure and company you choose.
The California Earthquake Authority has a simple calculator you can use to get a fairly accurate quote. For instance, we ran a sample test for a random home located in San Francisco. For about $1,000 per year, we could insure a 25-year-old home with a $500,000 value, including $50,000 of personal property coverage and $1,500 of loss of use.
We are able to gather a bunch of quotes in random cities across the Internet and came up with the following prices:
| City/State | Annual Average Price |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $300 |
| Kansas | $100 per $100K |
| Los Angeles, CA | $700 |
| Kentucky | $250 |
| Palo Alto, CA | $800 |
| Portland, OR | $650 |
| Santa Clarita, CA | $800 |
| San Diego, CA | $250 |
| San Francisco, CA | $3,500 |
| San Jose, CA | $800 |
| Seattle, WA | $800 |
Earthquake insurance overview
Various options are available, giving homeowners flexibility with their decision. For example, homeowners may insure their structure and set a deductible. Aside from this, homeowners can choose to insure both the structure and the belongings inside. Most deductibles will be 10 to 20 percent of the dwelling coverage before the insurance companies pay. Insurance companies may set a limit on how much coverage they cover. For example, if you have $300,000 in coverage with a 20 percent deductible, you would be responsible for $60,000.
If you’re in the market to purchase this type of policy, talk with your current homeowners insurance company to see what it would cost to add this premium. If you live in an area where this insurance isn’t available, your insurance company should point you in the right direction, or you can head to your state’s Department of Insurance website.
Earthquake insurance will pay for repairs, your personal belongings and additional living expenses. However, it won’t cover fires caused by an earthquake, floods, vehicle damage, sinkholes or any masonry.
What are the extra costs?
Be aware of your other fees on your homeowner’s policy. Earthquake insurance is only a premium option you can add onto your existing homeowner’s policy.
The lower the deductible is on your plan, the more you’re going to pay in premiums.
Optional coverage, such as building code upgrades, land restoration, and emergency repairs, can add to the policy.
Tips to know
In California, only nine percent of homeowners carry an earthquake policy. The reason? Since Californians haven’t experienced a major earthquake in more than two decades, most find the policy to be too expensive and it to be compared to a catastrophic medical insurance policy.
To determine your home’s risk profile, there are a few things you can do. For starters, know how close your home is to a fault line. The closer it is, the more you’re going to pay. Next, know whether your home is on bedrock or fill; you will also want to know the structure’s construction material.
Homeowners insurance policies won’t cover earthquake damage unless you add this add-on. The same can be said about renter’s insurance. Renters, if they want their belongings covered, will have to pay the premium as well. With a condo association, the association can insure the entire complex or each individual owner can do the same. Additionally, the HOA can insure against any assessments due to a loss because of an earthquake.
While banks require homeowners to receive flood insurance in a flood zone, earthquake insurance isn’t required, even if you live in an earthquake zone.
A common misconception by many thinks the government can help them in the case of an earthquake. While the government can help with a payment, it will be no different than a loan you would get at a local bank.
Earthquake risk
source: earthquake.usgs.gov
How can I save money?
The higher your deductibles are, the more you’re going to be able to save. Pick a deductible you’re comfortable with paying in case an earthquake were to happen.
Compare policies with at least three to five companies. By doing so, you should be able to save a little bit of money.
Do you need insurance? Take a look at the picture above and pay close attention to the area you live in. Is it a high hazard or low? If you’re in a higher-risk area, you may want to consider it.
Consider strengthening your house against future earthquakes. California, for instance, offers mitigation assitance to help you with this.
How Much Does Cable TV Cost?
Cable TV has become a staple in most United States-based households. Without cable TV, you’re generally limited to local programming or online services such as Netflix or Hulu.
How much does cable TV cost?
On average, cable TV packages will range anywhere from $20 to as much as $200 per month. This is all going to depend on the package, the channels selected, the equipment and company you use. Basic cable with Comcast can be close to $25 per month, while Cox Communications will charge about $22.
According to this recent FCC report, the average basic cable TV bill is around $64 per month.
| Provider | Costs (per month) |
|---|---|
| AT&T U-verse | - $50 for 145+ channels - $55 for 150+ channels - $60 for 175+ channels - $70 for 220+ channels - $75 for $240+ channels - $125 for 315+ channels |
| CenturyLink | - $40 for 150+ channels - $45 for 200+ channels - $55 for 310+ channels - $85 for 340+ channels |
| Charter | - $30 for 125+ channels - $49 for 175+ channels - $69 for $200+ channels |
| COX | - $10 for starter (10 channels - $35 for 220+ channels (Contour) - $76 for 50+ channels - $82 for 280+ channels - $105 for 340+ channels - $165 for 380+ channels |
| DirecTV | - $50 for 145+ channels - $55 for 150+ channels - $60 for 175+ channels - $70 for 220+ channels - $75 for $240+ channels - $125 for 315+ channels |
| DISH Network | -$55 for 190+ channels - $65 for 240+ channels - $75 for 290+ channels |
| Frontier Vantage | - $77 for 200 channels - $92 for 250 channels - $124 for 300 channels |
| Google Fiber TV | -$130 (not available on its own; you must purchase -Fiber 1000 plan) |
| Verizon Fios | - $75 for 50 Mbps Internet and custom TV - $90 for 50 Mbps Internet and preferred TV. |
| Windstream | - $45 for 120+ channels - $50 for 200+ channels - $60 for 250+ channels |
| WOW! | - $40 for small - $100 for medium - $124 for large |
| Xfinity/Comcast | - $29 for local programming only - $40 for 45+ channels - $45 for 140+ channels - $55 for 220+ channels - $100 for 260+ channels |
NOTE: These are introductory prices for the first 12 months. Unless you negotiate with the company, these prices will increase by as much as 30-40 percent. Also, this won’t include adding DVR, additional televisions or other premium channels. Treat this like an introductory base price.
What is going to be included in the estimates?
The package is going to be limited to what you choose as a package. Generally, each package will have a certain amount of channels listed on the website.
You should also get a standard box that will connect to your TV. This is in order to get the channels from the cable company. They will also provide the necessary cables to connect to the TV service.
HD and DVR boxes can be included as well, but it will come at an extra cost.
Most cable companies will also throw in the installation for free. This varies from company to company. Be sure to ask ahead of time to see if they charge any installation fees.
What are the extra costs?
DVR boxes will cost more throughout your home. On average, this will cost $5-$10 a box, per month. A DVR will enable you to record, pause and rewind TV.
Satellite companies will charge for each TV you want to hook up. Since each TV will require its own box, additional charges can apply. These usually range anywhere from $5 to $15 per box, per month.
Some companies may charge a one-time installation fee. This will vary from $50 to $200.
If your cable hardware fails, a service technician may have to come to your home. Your average house call is $99.
HD channels for an HD TV will cost extra. While some companies such as DirecTV include it for free, many charge $10+ additional per month.
Premium channels, such as Showtime, HBO and Cinemax, all cost more on top of your packages. Premium channels can start at $5 per month.
Some companies may also charge extra for your local programming. Consider getting a digital indoor antenna to cut these costs.
Tips to know
If your provider requires you sign a contract, make sure you write the fine print, especially when it deals with the introductory pricing. While the first year may seem like a bargain, the year after may be a lot more than expected.
Depending on your provider, some may charge you for each TV you want to connect to the service.
How can I save money?
Drop your cable altogether and consider services such as Netflix, Sling TV, Hulu Plus or Amazon Prime. Between that and your local channels, you should have more than enough content for less than $10 a month. Consider looking at a GetRichSlowly post that breaks down the price for cable TV as well as ways to save on your channels. Major channels such as HBO and ESPN allow you to view their content directly on their website for nothing.
Consider bundling your phone, the Internet and TV all in one package. Many companies will give you discounts by doing this. Also, check for other savings such as auto-pay and more.
Look for 6 to 12-month promotions. By taking advantage of these promotions, you can get rather good deals and even free months.
Those who just subscribe to a cable Internet package will find that most cable companies will include basic cable free of charge.
Compare packages online. Most larger named cable companies will provide pricing right on its website. Always make sure that you check your local area to ensure that these services are available.
Order the services online. Many major companies will have specialized deals for those who order directly online. It’s best to order directly from the company since many authorized retailers may charge more to get their own commission.
