Contrave Cost
Contrave, a prescription-based drug designed to help promote and maintain weight loss, is a popular opioid antagonist/atypical antidepressant combination.
If you’re looking at a prescription-based weight loss medication, Contrave is yet another brand name among the others such as Saxena, Qsymia and Belviq.
How much does Contrave cost?
The cost of Contrave will depend on a few factors, including the pharmacy you use, the quantity of your prescription and your health insurance policy. From our research via multiple pharmacy chains, the average cost, without insurance, is close to $2.50 per tablet or close to $250+ a month.
| Quantity | Estimated Price (without insurance coverage) |
|---|---|
| (30) 8mg/90mg | $70-$85 |
| (60) 8mg/90mg | $135-$175 |
| (120) 8mg/90mg | $265-$335 |
| (360) 8mg/90mg | $800-$1,000 |
From our research, it appears most have a hard time using their health insurance as many private companies, including Medicare, will not cover the prescription drug. However, this doesn’t mean you will not be able to save money as there are some methods, which will explain in our subheading below, on various ways to save money, even without a health insurance plan. If you do have a health insurance plan, talk with them and your local pharmacy to see if you’re covered or not as your results will vary.
VeryWellFit.com, for instance, notes the drug can cost anywhere from $99 to $250 a month and will depend on the dosage, location and insurance coverage.
How to save on Contrave
Take advantage of free prescription coupons: Consider using free online prescription coupon websites such as the popular GoodRx.com. Working like a private health insurance plan, all you need to do is find your local pharmacy and print the free coupon online. With this coupon, you will then visit your local pharmacy, display your card and you will receive the discount you were quoted on the website. At the time of this publishing, for example, the costs, when printing the coupon, allowed you to save more than 15% off the list price.
Download the savings card via the manufacturer: The official manufacturer of the drug, Orexigen, offers a free savings card that’s located directly on the official website. If you qualify, your out-of-pocket costs could be as little as $1 per day, with no restrictions throughout the year. For example, at the time of this publishing, the free home delivery option would cost $99 or even less if your employer covers part of it, while the pick up at the pharmacy option could cost about $114.99. To see if you qualify, follow this link to register online and download the form. From the recommendations online, this seems to be the best option for those looking to save money.
What is Contrave?
Contrave will use a combination of two medications: naltrexone hydrochloride and bupropion hydrochloride, and each extended-release capsule will contain eight milligrams of naltrexone, an opioid often prescribed to help fight alcohol dependence, smoking cessation and opioid dependence, to name a few. It will also contain 90 milligrams of bupropion, which is an aminoketone antidepressant used to treat seasonal affective disorder and depression. When these two combinations are prescribed, it will affect the central nervous system to help increase the number of calories you’re burning, ultimately decreasing your appetite, according to Verywellfit.com.
Alongside the medication, your doctor will also recommend/prescribe a specialized reduced-calorie diet and exercise program to help you achieve your desired results.
Contrave overview
The medication needs to be taken as prescribed by your doctor, but for most, it will start out slow, often once per day, while gradually increasing to as many as four capsules per day, twice in the morning and twice at night.
The prescription notes do state that you should avoid consuming a high-fat meal before the medication as this can increase your risk of a seizure. As with any prescription medication, always take your dosages on time and do not stop without your doctor’s permission.
This medication will be recommended for those who have a BMI greater than 30 or those who have a BMI greater than 27 and at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol.
Clinical trials
In clinical trials, people who took Contrave for up to 56 weeks lost five to nine pounds on average than those who took the placebo, according to Consumer Reports. Side effects commonly found during the study included liver damage, possible heart risks and seizures, a reason why Consumer Reports said patients considering the drug should skip it.
In another study, patients who took Contrave for up to a year shed 18 pounds or about eight percent of their body weight in comparison to the placebo that lost 11 pounds. Both groups were put on a reduced calorie diet, exercised regularly and received behavior counseling.
Lastly, in a trial with those with diabetes, the numbers were similar, with 36 percent of patients lost at least five percent of their body weight after a year.
All clinical trials can be found via ClinicalTrials.gov for more information.
Contrave side effects
The most common side effects reported by patients taking Contrave included vomiting, dizziness, insomnia, dry mouth, constipation, nausea, and diarrhea. In clinical trials, more than 24 percent of people stopped taking the medication due to related side effects, while 12 percent of placebo patients discontinued use. For a full list of side effects, refer here.
In addition to this, do keep in mind that Contrave has a black box warning label, a requirement set by the FDA due to the increase of suicidal thoughts and behavior found in young adults.
As of 2018, there is no generic of Contrave at this time.
Cochlear Implant Cost
A cochlear implant is a mechanic device designed to help people with serious or full hearing loss help hear again and highly recommended for those who often do not see results from a hearing aid.
Surgically implanted inside of the inner ear, the device will stimulate the auditory nerve inside the brain, and a headset, while worn on the outside, will allow someone to hear voices and sounds.
Contrary to a hearing aid, which amplifies a sound and makes it clearer, this implant, instead, will bypass the injured parts of the auditory system and directly stimulate the nerve of hearing.
How much does a cochlear implant cost?
The cost of a cochlear implant, including both the implant and the surgery, can cost upwards of $35,000 to $65,000+ without any health insurance coverage, but the costs can be much higher, often as high as $100,000+, when the external pieces and additional visits are factored in. This price will greatly depend on your health insurance policy, your geographical region, the facility the surgery is performed in, the doctor you use and the billing inclusions.
While health insurance policies generally cover a cochlear implant, as long as it’s deemed medically necessary, you may still be responsible for additional co-pays and/or meeting your deductibles. To know for certain, talk with your insurance company and doctor’s office to know more about what you will be responsible for once billed.
The American Academy of Otolaryngology notes that a cochlear implant can be much more than a hearing aid, often costing as much as $100,000 when the implant, evaluation, surgery, device and the rehabilitation care is factored in. They go onto say that fortunately, most private insurance companies, including Medicare benefits, will cover the costs of the procedure.
The additional costs to consider
Post-operative testing: Prior to the visit, before your physician even considers the surgery, you will need a host of post-operative tests, including hearing evaluations and often, a CT scan and special x-ray. Depending on your circumstances, this evaluation and CT scan can cost upwards of $1,000+ without insurance coverage.
External pieces: Aside from the implant itself, you will also need to budget for the external pieces, which include the transmitter, a device that costs about $100, and the speech processor, a costly device that sits behind of the ear that can range anywhere from $7,500 to $11,000+. Essentially, the speech processor, working similarly to a hearing aid, will help analyze the sound, whereas the transmitter will send the signal to the implant beneath the skin.
Programming visits and follow-up visits: Later, after the surgery completes, the implant will need to be programmed multiple times throughout the year, with each visit ranging anywhere from $125 to $350, depending on the clinic and the geographical location. Days and weeks after the surgery, your doctor will want you to come back to the office to examine the surgical location and to help you manage and learn the implant. Depending on the billing practices, these follow-up visits may or may not be included in the estimates mentioned prior. According to the Johns Hopkins Hospital, you will need to prepare for at least three to four reprogramming appointments starting one month after the surgery, while the rest of your life, you should be prepared to be seen at least every year after the two years past your surgery date.
Batteries for the implant: A smaller cost to consider, the batteries, will be required as your implant will need them in order to function properly. Depending on the implant, most will use the standard “AA” battery, which often cost about $0.75 each, depending on the brand.
Repairs and maintenance in the future: Repairs and/or maintenance needs to be budgeted for once the implant’s warranty expires. In the case of an extended third-party warranty, this could be an additional $500+ to extend the manufacturer warranty by a few years.
The surgical procedure
The cochlear implant procedure is almost always performed inside of your local doctor’s office in an outpatient setting under general anesthesia. During the procedure, a slight incision is created directly in back of the ear to help expose the mastoid bone, the bone of the skull behind the ear which contains open, air-containing spaces. Once this middle space is opened, another opening is then created in the cochlea and the implant is inserted. After it’s inserted, the electronic device at the foundation of the electrode array will then be inserted beneath the skin behind the ear.
A few weeks after the initial surgery, you will then need to go back to have your microphone, signal processor, and implant transmitter outside of your ear placed. During this appointment, your doctor and the professional team will adjust the settings and advise you how to use your device by listening to sounds via the implant. Depending on your circumstances, some people may find it will take longer to fit as it will call for more training.
Cochlear implant surgery risks
While the procedure is deemed relatively safe, there are still risks you may need to be concerned about, including a nerve injury, never damage, dizziness/balance problems, loss of hearing, ringing in your ears, leaks of fluid around the brain, an infected device, and/or meningitis, an infection around the brain membrane, according to WebMD.com.
How does a cochlear implant work?
These implants, according to American Academy of Otolaryngology, will bypass the damaged hair cells and convert all speech and environmental sounds into electrical signals, essentially sending these signals to the hearing nerve.
The implant, made of two components, will have an internal component that needs to be surgically implanted beneath the skin and will consist of a smaller electronic device that’s connected to the electrodes which are inserted inside of the cochlea, the spiral cavity of the inner ear. The second component, which will be the external component, will be worn behind the ear and will consist of a microphone, speech processor and a battery compartment.
The microphone worn outside of the ear will allow the speech processor nearby to help translate it into specific electrical signals which are then transmitted across the skin via radio waves to the internal stimulator. This stimulator is then designed to send the signals to the electrodes inside of the cochlea, stimulate the auditory nerve fibers that send this information to the brain, where it’s eventually interpreted as a meaningful sound.
Tips to know
The FDA does regulate cochlear implants for both children and adults and will only improve them after clinical investigations. With this being said, be certain to talk with your otolaryngologist in regards to which implant they recommend as well as the side effects, safety issues and performance of the device. With this information, it’s also best to talk with your health insurance company to see if they cover this certain brand as these companies will have restrictions.
A cochlear implant is only recommended for those who do not benefit from a hearing aid. Patients will have to be at least 12 months or older unless childhood meningitis is responsible for the deafness.
Benefits of cochlear implants
- Being able to hear at a normal level
- May be able to understand speech without reading lips
- Easier to talk on the phone and/or hear the TV
- You may be able to hear music better than before
- Able to pick up newer sounds you couldn’t hear before such as soft, medium and loud ones
- Can control your voice as you talk so it’s easier for others to hear you
Source: WebMD
Cochlear implant candidates
- Those who suffer from a profound hearing loss in both ears
- Suffering from hearing loss, even after learning speech and language
- No or limited help from hearing aids
- No known medical problems which may deem the surgery risky
- You want to hear better
Cenegenics Cost
According to the company, Cenegenics claims to make you “look and feel years younger” by providing a personalized and proactive age management program that’s able to help maximize your health, vitality and wellness throughout life by accomplishing this via extensive health tests, screenings, supplements and hormone replacements.
Founded in 1997, Cenegenics members record an average of 30 percent decrease in body fat, with over 35,000 men and women taking advantage of the program.
To date, the company has 18 locations throughout the United States, in and around large cities.
How much does Cenegenics cost?
According to the website, the initial consultation with a physician is free of charge, and as part of this consultation, they will include a free Elite Health Kit that you can take home.
Aside from this information, the company does not go into specifics as to what they charge, but looking at various third-party websites online, we were able to find some information as to how much it costs, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy.
The initial assessment fee seems to be in the $3,000 to $4,000 range, while the hormone replacement therapy can be in the $1,000 to $2,000 range. As part of the program, which we explain in how it works below, the monthly supplement costs can cost up to $1,000 a month, while the medical fee can be another $800. Lab fees are an additional fee to consider as well. All of these recurring additional costs will all depend upon your personalized program and which supplements are recommended. On eBay, for instance, we found a variety of listings posting the products, with prices ranging from $30 to $200+
Additional costs can apply, aside from the aforementioned pricing, since you may need to pay for accommodations and transportation if you do not live near a Cenegenics center, for example. The same can be said about the premium add-ons, such as cardiac risk management tests, telomere health tests and/or skin care products if you want to add it to your plan.
The entire program, for the first year, is reported to cost $18,000 to $21,000+
How does Cenegenics work?
The company doesn’t go into much detail about the program on its official website, but rather, they claim they use cutting-edge, evidence-based science to help create a personalized age-management medical program for both men and women. As part of this, the company offers four products and services, which are all part of the program, including supplements, private formulations, skincare products, fitness wear, an elite health program, heart disease and stroke prevention program and telomere testing.
The elite health care program, as the flagship service, will first begin via a baseline test, where they will determine your greatest health strengths and weaknesses by testing your metabolic and physiologic baseline. These tests, as the “gold standard” can include resting measurements, a DXA scan, your cardiovascular endurance, a carotid intima-media scan, neurocognitive assessment, muscular strength, muscular endurance, core strength, flexibility and balance testing. With these results, they will then be able to determine a personalized medical program that is able to meet your specific needs to help reduce your chances of preventable disease in the future.
After the baseline test is established and explained, you will then be assigned to a dedicated team that consists of physicians, exercise counselors, wellness coaches, nutrition experts, and coordinators, all of whom will help you reach your goals, discuss your monthly progress and makes recommendations to the program as you continue. During this time, as long as you remain active in the program, the company will also ship out nutritional supplements and prescription hormones as clinically indicated, according to your personal plan.
Your results, as long as you follow the program according to plan, will help decrease your chances of future age-related diseases, improve your physical vitality, sleep better, improve muscle tone and boost your mental acuity.
Heart and disease prevention testing
Aside from the health evaluation mentioned above, the company also uses state-of-the-art technology and the most comprehensive lab testing to help you prevent heart disease in the future, the number one cause of death in the United States.
During this testing process, they will first want to discuss your family history, your history as well as perform an extensive physical exam, just like you would at your local doctor’s office. After this, they will perform advanced lipid panels, genetic marker and inflammatory marker testing to help predict your chances of heart-related diseases in the future. Lastly, the Carotid Intima-Media Thickening (CIMT) testing will evaluate your existing plaque and the chances of build-up in the future. With all of these results, the company will alter your program to create a healthy future.
Telomere testing
The telomere testing process, according to the company, will evaluate your health at a cellular level to help determine your biological age in comparison to your chronological age, the age often impacted by your personal choices.
Tips to know
Cenegenics was featured on the television show, 60 minutes, and can be viewed here.
Casper Mattress Cost
The Casper mattress, according to the company, is better than any other brand due to the one-of-a-kind ergonomic alignment, the premium foams for luxurious comfort and the airy layers which keeps you nice and cool while asleep.
Offering a 100-night risk-free trial period, they offer the “sleep better or your money back — no springs attached.”
How much does a Casper mattress cost?
The cost of a Casper mattress will depend on a few factors, including the type of mattress and the size. With a few options available, we compiled the costs we found on the official website at the time of this publishing:
| Model | Prices (as of 2018) |
|---|---|
| The Casper | - Twin: $595 - Twin XL: $645 - Full: $895 - Queen: $995 - King: $1,195 - CAL King: $1,195 |
| The Essential | - Twin: $350 - Twin XL: $400 - Full: $500 - Queen: $600 - King: $725 - CAL King: $725 |
| The Wave | - Twin: $1,095 - Twin XL: $1,195 - Full: $1,695 - Queen: $1,995 - King: $2,395 - CAL King: $2,395 |
NOTE: These prices are as of 2018 and are subject to change. Use this as an estimate only for reference purposes.
All shipping and returns are free in the United States and Canada.
The mattress options
| The Casper | - The company's signature mattress, featuring Zoned Support™ for alignment and maximum comfort - 4 layers of foam, including pressure-relieving foam - Breathable, open-cell foams to help you sleep cool |
| The Essential | - The company's "streamlined" mattress - Equipped with a durable, zip-off cover that's able to stand years of use - Breathable, open-cell foams to help you sleep cool - 3 layers of foam, including pressure-relieving foam |
| The Wave | - The most advanced mattress offered by the company, featuring Hyper-Targeted Support™ for ergonomic spine alignment - 5 layers of foam, including a cushioning top layer - Breathable, open-cell foams to help you sleep cool |
The extra optional costs
Pillows: Bed pillows range from $75 for a standard to $95 for a king. According to the company, the pillows are filled with nearly a billion coated fibers, creating an adaptive liquid-like feel that is able to respond to your movement while you sleep. The outer part, offering a plush and cushioning feel, features longer fiber, with each individually blown into the cover.
Sheet Sets: A standard sheet set, depending on the size, can range anywhere from $100 for a twin to as much as $170 for a king or $190 to $310 if you wanted to add a duvet cover. Each set, coming in a variety of colors, is available at local Target stores or via online and will include one flat fitted sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. If you don’t want the set, then you can purchase either the duvet cover separately, starting at $90 or the pillowcase set on its own, which starts at $50, again, based on the size.
Down Duvet: The down duvet insert, made of breathable cotton, is said to be the best temperature regulator out there, according to the product’s description, making it comfortable for any season. A twin will retail for $250, a queen will retail for $290, and a king will cost $350.
Mattress Protector: Ranging from $85 to $105, depending on the size of your mattress, the Casper mattress protector keeps your mattress looking like new by protecting it from any stains, spills or from simple wear and tear. Using the same material premium outdoor gear uses, this protector is small enough to keep the spills out but large enough to let the air in, allowing your mattress to stay cool and clean.
Bed Frame: Designed to work with the mattress foundation, this 100% recycled steel bed frame can range from $95 for a twin to as much as $125 for a king.
Dog Mattress: Aside from the mattresses made for humans, the company also offers a dog mattress for a variety of dog sizes. Designed by the same engineering team who created the sleep products, the dog mattress, ranging from $125 to $225, offers the same sleep surface and return policy.
Casper vs. Lessa vs. Tuft and Needle
| Casper | Leesa | Tuft and Needle | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Layers | 3+ foam layers, depending on which mattress you choose | 3 foam layers | 2 foam layers |
| Mattress Height | 9.5" | 10" | 10" |
| Cover | white and grey, soft to the touch and stretchy | one seamless piece of fabric | very thin, entirely white with the logo emobossed |
| Warranty | 10 years | 10 years | 10 years |
| Trial Period | 100 days | 100 days | 100 days |
| Price | see above | $525-$1,195 | $325-$700 |
| Return | Full refund; they will take mattress back for free | Full refund; they will take mattress back for free | Full refund; they will take mattress back for free |
Tips to know
The company works with the financing company, Affirm, to help break up your payments into flexible monthly payments as little as 0% interest and $84 a month.
All mattresses, as per the company’s warranty page, come equipped with a 10-year limited warranty.
To test the mattress, some Target locations have begun to allow you to try it in person.
BarkBox Cost
BarkBox, a monthly subscription box service designed just for dogs, offers a themed collection every month, offering dogs toys, treats and more.
The company has your back, claiming that if your dog does not like the entire box or an item, then you can return it for a free replacement.
How much does BarkBox cost per month?
The cost of BarkBox, , will greatly depend on the type of plan you sign up for. Like most subscription services, the longer you commit to the service, the more you’re going to be able to save. The minimum monthly price, at the time of this publishing, is $29 a month, but this price, as we display in the table below, can drop as you commit to a longer term.
As of this publishing in 2018, the prices for a BarkBox subscription is as follows:
| 1st month | $29 a month |
| 6 months | $25 a month |
| 12 months | $21 a month |
NOTE: In addition to the monthly prices mentioned prior, you can add a premium dog toy to your box for another $9 a month, but it is completely optional.
While the shipping is free for the 48 continuous United States, Hawaii and Alaska residents will need to pay an additional $5.
How does BarkBox work?
The entire process is extremely simple and will only take a few minutes of your time when signing up on the website. When signing up for the first time, the website will first ask you how big your dog is as they offer three sizes: the small BarkBox, also known as the Small and Cute package, designed for dogs 0 to 10 pounds; the medium BarkBox, also known as the Just Right package, designed for dogs 50 to 100 pounds; and lastly, the big BarkBox, which is designed for dogs that weigh more than 50+ pounds.
After you designate the dog’s size and input your credit card information, you will then receive a BarkBox at your doorstep each month, with the average box containing anywhere from four to six items, including at least two healthy bags of treats, two dog toys and a dog chew. Outside of this, the box theme will remain a mystery, but according to k9ofmine.com, it will often match the current season, so it’s best to plan for holiday-themed toys.
The first box, according to the FAQ, will arrive two to eight business days after you place your order. If you’re already a subscriber, then they will ship out the box on the 15th of every month.
BarkBox monthly themes examples
Every month, the company will take your dog on a new adventure, offering a new theme, opening you and your dog to an entirely different world. The and we included some of the information we researched below as well.
| Theme | Inclusions |
|---|---|
| New York City | - Andi’s Famous Plush Dumplings: A plush shaped like a dumpling filled with a squeaker. - Pretzel Rope Plush: Heavy chew toy made from durable material, stuffed with stomach-safe T-shirt rope - Lady Liberty Ball: Bouncy, squeaky ball built with a spiky ball core - Chester's Pigeon: Squeaker toy packed with fluffy stuffing - Central Pork Pizza: All-natural ingredient dog treat bag, with pork mentioned as first ingredient - Deer Chew: Nutritious dog chew made from American deer |
| Sniffin' Safari | - Chewfasa the Lion: Soft and tear-able hair toy - Hangry Hangry Hippo: Made with safe T-shirt rope, equipped with a spiky ball core and soft plush covering - Cooper’s Candid Camera: Bouncy squeaker toy, made with 100% natural rubber - Charlie’s Heart of Cheesiness Nuggets: Grain-free soft treats made in the USA or Canada, all without any preservatives, fillers or colors - Banana Bacon Safari Snacks: Allergen-free snack flavored with banana and bacon - Lamb Nik-Knacks Chews: All-natural lamb ear pieces sourced from the USA |
| Bento & Blossoms | - JoJo Dreams of Sushi: Stretchy rope shaped like sushi, made of durable ballistic nylon - Rubber Lucky Cat: Treat-dispensing cat toy made from non-toxic rubber - Edna’s Edamame: Soft and squeaky toy shaped like edamame beans - Mr. Sakay Salmon and Rice Treat: Chewy snack treat flavored like salmon made from the USA and Canada without any nasty preservatives - Hello Ducky!: All-natural duck snacks made from duck with no corn, soy, grain or gluten - Chicky Twizzie: Long lasting chew without the gluten, grain, dairy, soy or smells |
Tips to know
According to the company, they will only include toys and treats from reliable and trusted vendors that use only the highest ingredients. As for toys, the same can be said as they are only known to work with toys that only use the best materials that will not harm your dog. All boxes are free of any soy, corn and wheat, but if your dog is allergic to chicken, beef or turkey, for example, then there are allergy-friendly boxes available.
Is it worth the price? According to many reviews we read online, it appeared you could save up to 20% if you were to subscribe to the service since, most of the time, you’re going to pay much more if you were to buy each item individually. K9ofmine.com, the website mentioned earlier, noted if you regularly buy treats and toys, then yes, it’s a good value and worth a try; however, if you do not spend more than $20 a month on toys and treats, then it probably will not make sense for your budget.
Be on the lookout for special coupon codes as many websites do offer a free month code for first-time buyers.
Your credit card on file will automatically renew, so if you want to cancel, you will have to do so via your dashboard. Failing to do so will lead to more boxes an additional charges. You are able to cancel anytime as long as your current subscription is about to expire.
The company donates 10% of all of its profits to local shelters, plus they have something known as the BarkGood program, which helps out over 3,000 shelters.
If you have a favorite toy from the past, the company allows you to repurchase it directly from the website.
Aerobic Septic System Cost
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An aerobic septic system, to put it simply, is a smaller version of a municipal sewage plant that you own as a homeowner.
Similar to most septic systems which treat wastewater using a natural process, an aerobic system, however, will inject oxygen into the tank via a pump, allowing the bacterial decomposition process to become faster, cleaner and much more efficient.
Rarely used for residential properties in the past, today, they have become more popular due to its efficiency.
How much does an aerobic septic system cost?
The cost of an aerobic septic system will depend on your soil conditions, the size of the system you need, the design, maintenance requirements, your geographical region and the professional you choose to hire. Based on these factors, it appears the average system, when installed, can range anywhere from as little as $4,000 to more than $17,000, often making it up to three times more than a traditional septic system. Other fees will apply, which will we get into in our next section.
As many factors come into play, as you can see, all of the quotes obtained will be quite different. For this very reason, we highly recommend you use the free quote comparison website, HomeAdvisor.com, to gather as many quotes as you can… for free. Here, you simply explain your job and with this information, contractors will contact you with a no-obligation quote.
According to wholesalesepticsupply.com, the state can play a crucial role as some states will require your system has a control panel, for example, which can increase the costs. The website mentions that in some states, such as Mississippi, can cost around $3,500 to $3,900, while in Illinois, since there’s rock present beneath the surface most of the time, it can cost in excess of $15,000+.
On this forum thread via TexasBowHunter.com, multiple members talked about what they paid for this type of system, with prices ranging anywhere from $8,500 to more than $15,000+
The additional costs to consider
Site evaluation: Before the septic system is even considered, a site evaluation will always be required, often costing anywhere from as little as $200 to more than $500 based on the factors mentioned prior.
Pulling permits: Also, aside from the evaluation, there’s a good chance you will need local permits pulled as well, another cost which can cost upwards of a few hundred dollars.
Required maintenance schedule: Some cities require you keep a valid maintenance contract at all times or you risk the chance of a fine. These routine inspections, required about once a year, can cost a few hundred dollars, all depending on the contractor you hire and your geographical region. Parts can be costly as well, iwth a motor, for example, retailing for more than $500 for just the part.
Older home? In the case of a newer home, the system can be easier to install since the plumbing setup often runs to the middle of the home, out to one outlet, whereas an older home may have multiple exits, making it harder to connect the system to the home as more work will be required to create the right elevation, etc. If extensive hand digging is required, this could increase your project by more than $2,000+
The pros of an aerobic septic system
An aerobic septic system will require a smaller-than-average draining field, often making it a fantastic choice for those who are working with a small lot.
Many of the more advanced aerobic systems will have alarms which can alert homeowners in the case of a problem.
As these systems can process waste faster, in comparison to other systems, they tend to be more environmentally friendly.
According to EastTexasSeptic.com, these systems are ideal for sites that are not acceptable for conventional systems, and in the case of poor soil conditions, this can often be your cheapest option.
The cons of an aerobic septic system
Since these systems will require electricity, they can fail in the case of a power outage, especially if you do not have a power backup.
These systems are known to become clogged easier due to the setup and design.
In comparison to other septic systems, the aerobic system will require much more upkeep and failing to do so can often lead to costly failures.
In some cities, these systems are not allowed, so it’s best to talk with city officials before proceeding or even considering one.
Costly in terms of maintenance when compared to other systems, often costing more than $300 a year to maintain. Remember, many states, by law, require you to have a maintenance contract.
Tips to know
Some cities do not accept these types of systems. Before considering, check with your local health department for more information.
Check with your local state laws to see if you’re required to have a maintenance contract to avoid costly fines in the future.
An aerobic septic system should run continuously, and if the air pump is not running, then this could be a red flag your system isn’t working as it should. To know if your air pump is running, you should hear a slight humming noise, but in the case of a louder, obnoxious noise, then it could mean your alarm is on due to no electricity. If the alarm does come on, check your breakers immediately if your electricity is working.
All systems should be cleaned at least every three to five years.
Bamboo Flooring Cost
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Bamboo flooring, known to be a sturdy and glistening alternative to hardwood flooring commonly found inside of a home, can resist moisture, stain easily and is often easier to install.
With a recent rise in popularity, a few key factors can determine the final costs of this project if you decide to hire a professional.
How much does bamboo flooring cost?
The costs of bamboo flooring will all depend on the type of flooring you’re looking to purchase, where you purchase it at, the scope of your job, your geographical location and the contractor you hire.
From the multiple quotes we compiled online, it’s best to budget anywhere from $1.50 to $3.50+ per square foot for the material and another $3 to $4.50 for the labor costs, effectively bringing the grand total for labor and materials ranging anywhere from $4.50 to $10+ per square foot installed.
There are a lot of factors which can affect the price, and for that reason, we highly recommend the free quote comparison website, HomeAdvisor.com. Here, you will explain your job, and with this information, contractors will contact you with a free, no-obligation quote based on your description. It’s free and no credit card is required to start.
| Type of Bamboo Flooring | Description | Cost Estimate (Materials ONLY) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbonized | Heat is applied to the existing bamboo flooring to create a darker, rich color. | $2-$4/square foot |
| Floating | A process which will allow the floors to click together like a puzzle while being installed instead of being adhered to the subfloor directly. | $2-$4/square foot |
| Handscraped | Keeping its natural beauty, a handscraped bamboo flooring keeps the natural look, creating a one-of-kind flooring option for your home. | $2-$5/square foot |
| Horizontal | Sliced into slats and then pressed together with one slate on top of another, resulting in fewer joint lines. | $2-$4/square foot |
| Solid | Stalks of bamboo and not really considered a "solid" flooring piece. When adhered during the manufacturing process, manufacturers will use chemicals, heat and pressure to create the finished form. | $1.50-$5.50/square foot |
| Strand Woven | A process which takes the bamboo in its natural form and is then shredded into a pulp. This is then pressed into a mold, along with adhesive-based chemicals, to form a solid board plank. | $2-$5/square foot |
| Vertical | Similar to the horizontal mentioned, but the tiny slats are stood up on the thin end and then pressed together to form a bonding plank material | $2-$4/square foot |
For the materials alone, we researched a handful of popular retailers and included the costs we found in the table below:
| Retailer | Average Price (per square foot) |
|---|---|
| BuildDirect | $3-$4.50 |
| Home Depot | $1.80-$5 |
| Lowe's | $2-$5 |
| Lumber Liquidators | $1,50-$4.50 |
Factors affecting the price
Total square footage: As with any flooring, the size of your home can greatly affect the price of the flooring. However, the larger your home is, the more you can be able to save since many retailers will offer bulk discounts once you purchase a certain amount. The same can be said about professionals when hiring for the installation.
Amount of side work: Aside from the flooring install, do you want anything else installed or done alongside the job? As we talk a bit more about it below, fixing the subflooring, adding new baseboards or even moving furniture, for example, can all increase the prices mentioned above.
Geographical location: This can be said about any professional service as a metropolitan city will always cost more than a rural country location with a much lower cost of living.
Installation method: There are three popular methods used when installing bamboo flooring: the glue-down, nail-down method, and click-lock floating method, and each method can affect the costs. The glue-down method, for example, is often the most expensive option, but it can be the most stable option in the future because the adhesive can allow the wood to expand and contract naturally, according to Ambientbp.com. The nail-down method, a pinch cheaper, is a faster and affordable process, however, over time, the floor can begin to squeak or even become loose as the seasons naturally contract the nails.
Additional costs to consider
Baseboards: When replacing any flooring, a good contractor will always recommend replacing the baseboards at this time as well. While it’s optional, new baseboards can aesthetically look better with your new floors, and can, of course, increase the costs, especially in the case of obstacles. Be sure to look at our baseboards cost guide we wrote in the past to give you a better idea as to how much you should budget for the job if you wish to replace your baseboards.
Existing floors: What kind of floors already exist in the home? In the case the contractor has to remove the floors that have been already installed in the past, then the costs, as well as preparing the subflooring for the bamboo flooring, can increase the costs. A bad subfloor may need to be sanded, replaced and/or filled with holes to create a smoother surface for the new floors. As for new builds with no flooring, however, can be much less, of course.
Staining: Many bamboo flooring options will require it to be stained, either before installing or after the job completes. In some cases, even if the flooring is already stained, some homeowners opt for a darker shade to match the interior’s decor. The average gallon of sealant can cost about $40 to $50, but hiring a professional contractor can cost about $2 to $4 per square foot.
Vapor barrier: A vapor barrier or a foam underlay, another optional add-on, is often installed by homeowners as it can help prevent moisture from seeping in between the actual flooring and the subfloor. While the bamboo flooring can resist moisture, as we noted in the introduction, it doesn’t mean the subfloor beneath can. A good underlay can cost an additional $17 to $25 per square foot based on the quotes we received online.
The pros of bamboo flooring
No airborne allergens: Bamboo flooring, unlike other hardwoods and carpet, will not trap any dust or mites, meaning it can be a great option for allergy sufferers. Smooth and synthetically fiber-free, as long as the flooring was not created with chemicals, allergy suffers should be this high on their list of flooring choices.
Eco-friendly: In comparison to other flooring options, bamboo flooring is incredibly eco-friendly as it does not produce a lot of chemical emissions when being processed. Aside from this, bamboo is also known to be a renewable crop, which simply means it can grow and mature rapidly, often maturing in as little as five years. In comparison to other hardwood materials, it can take some products up to 30 years to mature.
Easy to install: Since most bamboo flooring options, at least from what we saw via major retailers online, already have a finishing option, it can help reduce the installation time and even the additional expenses you may need to budget for. In comparison to other hardwood flooring options, which often need to be stained, bamboo flooring can more than likely be taken off the shelf and installed as it.
Many styles: When most think of bamboo, they often think of that one color and the shoots, but this is often a misconception as bamboo can actually come in a variety of styles since carbonizing the bamboo during the manufacturing process can actually change the color of the bamboo, all without using any stains or chemical-based finishes. Pressure heating the bamboo, for example, can warm the sugars, essentially darkening the bamboo.
Moisture resistant: As mentioned in our introduction, bamboo flooring is a great option for those who are looking for a moisture resistant flooring. As compared to other wooden floors that can often soak up the moisture if not taken care of in time, all you need to do with bamboo flooring is wipe it off whenever moisture presents itself.
Refinishing is a breeze: In the future, if you decide you want to re-stain the flooring, then you’re in luck. Compared to other flooring options, refinishing can be a breeze as all you need to do is sand away the top layer and apply a new layer of stain. This, in turn, can turn a scratched and/or discolored floor into a fresh looking floor.
It’s stress-free: In terms of maintenance, bamboo flooring requires very little upkeep, with the exception of a quick sweep or vacuum. While you can consider sealing it occasionally to keep its shine, it will not need to be done as often as you would with wood flooring.
The cons of bamboo flooring
Scratches quite easy: Unfortunately, bamboo flooring can scratch due to claws, high heels, debris on the ground or furniture moving around, to name a few, often not making it a great choice for a high trafficked area. While you can prevent scratches, such as taking off your shoes off and sweeping to remove any debris, this option may not be a great choice for those who do not want to worry about the damage that may occur.
Not ideal in humid weather: If you live in a humid climate, then you may want to second guess your option as bamboo, being moisture resistant, can actually backfire since it tends to crack in high humidity. If you want to consider it and you live in a very humid climate, then you may want to invest in a dehumidifier to counteract the moisture in the air.
May not be eco-friendly: Not all brands are created equally, and even if you’re purchasing bamboo flooring, it doesn’t mean you’re helping the environment. Unfortunately, some brands will use manufacturing processes which are not as environmentally friendly such as treating the bamboo with pesticides or even being transported further distances, which can essentially produce higher carbon emissions. This can be avoided, however, as you can pay close attention to how the brand manufacturers the flooring to be safe with your choice.
Ab Doer 360 Cost
The Ab Doer 360, invented by John Abdo, a professional strength and conditioning coach for the Olympic teams, is a light and compact workout system that is said to help tighten your muscles, tone your abs and burn calories, all while performing fun and easy-to-do movements, known as Abdobics.
Having been around for a few years now, often seen via television infomercials, the company notes it has served more than three million people throughout the world.
How much does the Ab Doer 360 cost?
The cost of the Ab Doer 360 machine will essentially depend on where you purchase, with the average price being about $220 if you were to purchase from a third-party website such as Amazon.com or Walmart, for example.
If you were to purchase from the official website, however, you are offered three payment options: either a one-time payment of $199.80 with no trial offer option, a one-time payment of 199.80 plus a $14.75 trial offer or four payments of $49.95 plus the $14.75 trial offer.
The trial offer, if you wanted to take advantage of it, allows you to use the machine for 30 days for the $14.95, and if you find out you do not like it for any reason, you’re able to return it for a full price refund, but it is said you will have to pay for the return shipping, with one reviewer online stating he had to pay $65 for shipping.
In the end, be prepared to spend about $200 to $220 for a brand new machine from just about any online retailer.
What’s included in the price?
Aside from the Ab Doer 360, all customers, if purchased from the official company’s website, will include a quick start guide, a nutritional guide with recommended healthy recipes, motivational calendar and a full-length instructional DVD that includes multiple workouts for any fitness level user to show you how to effectively use the machine. According to the website, this is said to be a $100 value and is considered to be a “free bonus gift” with your purchase. As with any promotion, however, this is subject to change.
For an additional fee, we talked with the company and they did say you could purchase a two-year warranty for $30, but outside of this, the machine does come with a standard one-year warranty against any manufacturer defects.
How does the Ab Doer 360 work?
The padded seat, according to the company, is said to automatically engage your muscles to provide you with the best results. The comfort seat, while in position, will help take off any pressure felt from your hip joints, pelvis, and tailbone, and the abductor grip will be able to support your thighs as you swivel on the machine.
On the rear of the Ab Doer 360 seat, it implements Multidirectional Technology, which is designed to stimulate your core muscles, including your abs, back and obliques, and the dual foam roller system, also attached to the back of the seat, massages your core and spinal muscles as you shift back and forth.
The last part of the machine, the elevated bars, will help keep your body aligned as you’re performing the recommended exercises to ensure you do not put your back in an awkward position which may cause some discomfort.
To use the machine once put together, it is known to be quite easy and will come naturally as you go along with the workouts on the DVD that comes with it.
Ab Doer 360 reviews
At the time of this publishing, the official Amazon.com listing had a total of 94 reviews with a 3.5 star out of five rating. The most helpful review on the Amazon page gave it a two-star rating and noted the product was easy to assemble; however, it did not offer enough resistance for a good workout and because of this, they had to purchase additional resistance separately. Another review, the second most helpful review, stated it was great for those who are looking for a range of movements, with the reviewer, in particular, having a hard time balancing due to hip replacements and a broken leg in the past.
On HSN.com, , with the top reviewer talking about the ease of assembly and the improvement in her tighter stomach and toned arms.
45 reviewers on TVStuffReviews.com gave it a 2.7 out of 5, with the reviews being mixed. Some complained about the poor construction of the machine and the customer service, while the positive claims talked about the ease of use and the fat reduction noted after using it for a few weeks.
Tips to know
The machine has a 300-pound weight limit and is suitable for various heights by elevating the position of the contouring arm bars.
It requires no tools to assemble and can be done in as little as 15 minutes with its simple-to-read instructions.
Aside from the DVD that comes with the machine, there are multiple workout videos available online via Youtube. Best of all, they are free to use and can mix things up if you’re bored of the DVD at home.
Even though the machine may seem “compact,” it’s not recommended for travel as it is not as portable as you may think.
AdvoCare 24 Day Challenge Cost
The AdvoCare 24-Day Challenge is a complete nutritional program manufactured by the company, Advocare, and according to their claims, they say you can lose weight in a short period of time by using its program, which is designed to get rid of all the toxins and chemicals that are slowing down our liver and gastrointestinal system.
Like a lot of dieting programs on the market, the AdvoCare 24-Day Challenge is based on multi-level marketing, which simply means you will need to buy from someone who signed up as a sales representative for the company and chances are they will try to recruit you as well as they will make a portion of your sales as well as signup bonuses if you were to commit. However, this is entirely optional as you can still purchase the products, even if you show no interest in becoming a sales representative for the company.
How much does the AdvoCare 24-Day Challenge cost?
The cost of the AdvoCare 24-Day Challenge, via its official website, is said to be $159 for a basic 24-day package, but in order to get this price, you will need to sign up for the preferred customer program, which would cost another $19.95 annually, essentially bringing the grand total to $178.95~ for the basic 24-Day Challenge package. You can purchase the items, which we will mention below separately, but it’s best to purchase as a package to save the most money.
| Item | Price Average |
|---|---|
| 24-Day Jumpstart™ for Days 1 - 24 | $159.82 + $19.99 to join as "preferred customer" |
| Spark® Stick Packs (14 servings) | $24.99 retail |
| Vitamin and Amino Acid Supplement (42 servings) | $54.99 retail |
| Ready-To-Drink Protein (12 servings) | $44.95 retail |
| MNS® 3 (14-day supply) | $43.95 retail |
NOTE: The prices are about 10% cheaper if you were to join the preferred customer program that costs $19.95 annually.
Aside from the 24-Day challenge “box” you purchase at the beginning, you will also need to factor in the food you need to start eating after your first phase, which we explain below. The food costs, greatly depending on what you purchase and where you purchase it from, can add another $5 to $10+ per day and you will not need to purchase the food from the company; instead, you can do so at a grocery store of your choice. The company, as per its brochure, will recommend one serving of four to six ounces of protein and another cup of raw or cooked vegetables.
Via Amazon.com, we did find AdvoCare selling its official products for a higher price, around $200 to $225, depending on the flavor of choice, but you would not need to sign up as a preferred customer in order to buy the product.
In total, be prepared to spend about $400+ as a safe estimate for the entire 24-day challenge. Again, your results and prices can vary depending on the supplements/products you buy as well as well the protein and vegetables you purchase at your local grocery store.
What comes with the AdvoCare 24-Day Challenge?
Spark® stick packs: Enhanced with more than 20 vitamins, minerals and nutrients, the stick packs work in a way to help provide you with a healthy and balanced source of energy as each stick contains an effective amount of caffeine to give you that natural quick boost. AdvoCare spark flavors include cherry, grape, orange, citrus and fruit punch.
One box of MNS 3: Known to be the most comprehensive multi-nutrient dietary supplement system, according to the company, these packets will help focus on your energy, appetite control and wellness. Included in every strip pack of MNS 3 will include a before breakfast color packet, before lunch color packet, white packet, calcium plus, ActoTherm, BioTherm, CorePlex, CardioQ and OmegaPlex.
One box of meal replacement shakes: This portable shake mix will offer a blend of carbohydrates, fiber and protein with over 26 vitamins and minerals. Each serving is about 210 calories, and as per the company, the shake is designed to support the body’s ability to lower body fat when used as an alternative to high-calorie foods.
One bottle of OmegaPlex: Containing a blend of EPA Omega-3 fatty acids and DHA, each 1,000 mg capsule is designed to support cardiovascular health and the immune and nervous systems, while also supporting healthy hair, nails and skin.
One box of Fiber Drink: Each serving of soluble and insoluble fiber absorbs water in your stomach and intestines, helping you feel full to help control your appetite. Moving through your system, it can help cleanse your digestive tract and even eliminate waste as it goes.
One Box of Herbal Cleanse: The Herbal Cleanse System is designed to help the body get rid of its waste and absorb nutrients with its unique blend of ingredients. Each system will contain three products: AdvoCare® Fiber, Herbal Cleanse tablets and ProBiotic Restore™.
How does the AdvoCare 24-Day Challenge work?
According to the company, they claim that they can get rid of pounds of toxins and chemicals within 10 days by using micro ingredients if you specifically follow the program step-by-step. Aside from this, they also claim it will speed up your metabolism and energy, but glancing online, there were no scientific studies we could find.
The first phase, according to dieters who took advantage of the program, will first involve a detox period. During this time, which lasts for 10 days, you will only be asked to drink caffeine-loaded drinks, special laxative drinks, diet shakes and high-fiber snacks, all of which need to be purchased directly from the company. During this time, you will be asked to eat only the foods recommended as per the schedule as well.
Next, the second phase, known as the “Max phase,” will include the same foods, but at this time, other supplements and one approved meal from the official cookbook will be added to the phase to help boost your metabolism and control your appetite. At this time, you will only be able to eat one meal from the cookbook once per day. This phase, lasting a minimum of 14 days, can last much longer since the company will advise you that you stay on as long as you want to lose weight.
To look at the food recommendations and learn more about the program schedule, you can view this official brochure.
Tips to know
The challenge will ask you to avoid any soda, alcohol, creamy sauces, high-calorie salad dressings, sugar, candy, anything fried, processed food, white flour and all partially hydrogenated oils.
The average weight loss reported for the entire program is about 12 pound and 10 inches around the waist.
Pinterest has more than 300+ recipes designed for this challenge.
Cost to Paint Baseboards
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The baseboards, that piece of wood designed to protect the wall from dings and knicks and even add aesthetic value, are the pieces of wood (or even composite) between the floor and the wall.
Coming in a range of sizes, varying from one to more than six inches tall, these baseboards, just like your walls will need to be repainted over time, either due to time or simply the change of heart because you want a new color.
As many people find painting baseboards to be quite the tedious task, many opt to hire a professional painter to complete the job for them.
How much does it cost to paint baseboards?
The costs to paint baseboards will depend on the contractor you hire, the type of paint used, the scope of the job and the geographical area you live in. Based on these factors, the average professional contractor will charge anywhere from as little as $1.75 per linear foot for a simple job to as much as $4 per linear foot for a job using a higher-grade paint. This is a quote for the baseboards only and would not include any other painting jobs such as painting door trim, window trim and/or the entire wall, for example.
For the average 1,500 square foot home, this means you should budget about 500 linear feet of baseboards, bringing the grand total, if hiring a professional, to $875 to $2,000+
While most jobs are pretty straightforward, it doesn’t hurt to receive multiple quotes from screened and licensed contractors in your area. HomeAdvisor.com, for example, can connect you with multiple contractors in your area for free. All you need to do is explain your job, and from there, contractors will contact you with a free quote for your job.
Porch.com, for example, noted the average project costs in the United States ranged anywhere from .
Additional costs to consider
Dirty baseboards: For dirtier baseboards that require additional cleaning and prepping can often increase your labor costs by more than $100+.
Lead paint? Any home built before 1978 may have lead paint on the trim. If this were the case, then the paint will need to be scraped and removed by the painter, leading to even more work. Depending on the job, this could increase the costs by hundreds of dollars.
What’s included in the quote?
In the estimates mentioned above, this fee should include the materials, including both the primer, the latex-based paint and all of the necessary supplies, such as caulking, painter’s tape, paint brushes, and cleanup supplies, to complete the job.
It will also include all of the labor, including prepping the surface before painting, such as sanding, patching, and caulking, as well as spot priming as needed. Two coats of paint, again, depending on the scope of the job and the contractor’s preferences should be included as well. A good painter will also include a limited warranty, protecting you in case of the paint fading or unsatisfactory results in the future.
The process
The first step often involves visually inspecting the existing trim to see if any areas need to be patched or caulked.
Next, a good contractor will always caulk between the wall and trim, followed by taping off the trim from the wall area to make sure none of the paint gets onto the wall.
Once taped, a good layer of primer paint is applied to ensure the wood grain doesn’t show through. This primer will also help prevent the paint from peeling in the future as well.
Lastly, up to two coats of paint, depending on the condition of the wood, will be applied and will be allowed to dry, usually about 24 hours, before the tape is removed and the area is cleaned.
