How Much Does a Wave Hill Wedding Cost?

Wave Hill, a 28-acre public garden and cultural center, is located in the Bronx, New York, offering its intimate gardens and views of the Palisades and Hudson River for what they deem the most romantic setting in all of New York City, making it perfect for a Brooklyn, New York-based botanical garden wedding.

The Wave Hill House, built in 1843, was recently renovated in 2013 by Dattner Architects.  As a former estate house of Mark Twain, Theodore Roosevelt and two British ambassadors to the United Nations, it makes for one of the most unique settings in all of New York City.

“Wave Hill” (CC BY 2.0) by Kristine Paulus

The reported costs for a Wave Hill wedding

In order to rent the facility for your wedding, applicants must hold a membership at the Conservator level, which costs $10,000, with the tax-deductible portion being $8.48, according to the website.  This level allows the member to host a wedding with one year of benefits.  In addition to buying the membership, the member must also pay a $3,500 rental fee, with winter wedding costing less than this.  In total, the membership fee, plus the rental fee, will total $13,500 alone, and this fee will not include anything else such as food or alcohol.

As for the price per head, VenueReport.com notes the estimated cost per head is $320 to $380 and all couples must use the catering provided by the venue.  This fee would be on top of the rental fees mentioned prior and would include the menu, staff, all rentals and a premium open bar if desired.

Factoring in a 100 guest wedding, the total costs, from our estimates, could exceed $50,000 when the rental fee and food is combined.  Of course, the costs could be much higher when additional wedding fees are included such as photography, transportation, etc.

The venue spaces

Cocktail Hour – The cocktail hour is commonly held on the Kate French Terrace, which is adjacent to the Wave Hill House.  The three-season lighted tent covers more than half of the space and provides additional coverage from the elements.  This area can accommodate up to 200.

Ceremony – Couples will exchange vows beneath the garden’s Italian-styled pergola overlooking the Hudson River and surrounding Palisades.

Reception – All receptions are held in the garden’s Armor Hall at the Wave Hill House, which can accommodate up to 130 guests, with room for a small dance floor and small band.

Facts you should know

The venue will only book one wedding per day to ensure your privacy and exclusivity.  All weddings will be held in the evening after the gardens close to the public at 5:30 p.m.

Sarah Tew Photography has multiple pictures and a video on her website of this venue.

As mentioned prior, the venue works with the exclusive caterer, Great Performances.

Aside from the caterer, the venue also has a trusted list of professionals, which can be viewed here.

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How Much Does a Trigger Point Injection Cost?

Trigger points are the area of the muscle which will show a band of tightness in the area of the muscle itself, and when pushed, it will generate a twitch.

When pressed, it may cause more than discomfort in the troubled muscle — it could also cause other areas of the body to react as well such as the head or neck.

These trigger points are often caused by either inflammation, an injury, trauma or because of other factors.

“The needle” (CC BY 2.0) by Dr. Partha Sarathi Sahana

The average reported trigger point injection cost

The costs of a trigger point injection will all depend on the provider you use, the number of injections per session and your geographical location.  From what we researched, the costs, without insurance, can vary anywhere from $250 to $450 for just the injections alone.  This would not include any additional testing if needed.

While your health insurance policy will cover it in some circumstances, it’s important to talk with your health insurance provider ahead of time to know what exactly will be covered as the costs, even when covered, will greatly vary.  If covered, regardless of your policy, you should see a significant discount compared to the estimates mentioned prior.

MDSave.com, a website which connects you with providers who offer their exact price, had an average of $339 to $550 per injection, all depending on the local geographical location.

This Bellin Health PDF noted its facility charged $268 for trigger point injections.

Members on this SteadyHealth.com forum thread discussed the costs of trigger point injections, with one member stating his cost was $450.

What is a trigger point injection?

These injections, normally a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine or bupivacaine, a mixture of anesthetics, or a corticosteroid alone or mixed with lidocaine, is inserted into the affected muscle to help provide some sort of relief.  In some circumstances, no medication will be used, only a needle. If successful, it will not only help the muscle in question, it will also help the other areas experiencing the pain as well when pressure is applied.

Doctors often recommend this type of injection if particular trigger points are elicited with a strong touch and/or may also be helpful for patients who are experiencing extreme headaches and/or migraine attacks as the injection can help the overall worsening of head discomfort for those with persistent headache troubles.

When is it used?

According to WebMD, trigger point injections will be used to treat many muscle groups, especially in the lower back, neck, arms and legs/calf.  These injections can also be used to help treat tension headaches, fibromyalgia or to alleviate myofascial pain syndrome if other treatments aren’t working.

The procedure

Before the injection is administered, the physician will first identify and confirm the affected muscles by palpating the area in question

During the procedure, a physician, typically either a rheumatologist, pain-management doctor, physical medicine or rehabilitation doctor, will insert a tiny needle into the affected muscle while the patient is either sitting or lying down.  As mentioned, this injection will only contain a local anesthetic, but in some circumstances, it could contain a steroid medication as well.

This process will always be performed inside of a doctor’s office and no sedation will be required.  The entire process will take no longer than 15 minutes.

After the injection is done, patients will notice the pain will lessen almost immediately in both the affected muscle and the referred pain to the head or neck.  Some patients, however, may experience no difference, while others may have to wait until results are noticed.

The doctor will ask you rest the affected area for the next 48 hours and to avoid any strenuous activity as long as your muscles still feel sore.  If the injections do not work as planned, then he or she may recommend physical therapy to help you understand any activities which may overstress your muscles, effectively causing the trigger points to form again.  For some, a series of injections, about six weeks apart, may be recommended for the future to help with long-term relief.

In the end, the corticosteroids, if used, will be in an active form for about a month, while the anesthetic will numb the area for the next one to three hours.

How do these injections work?

The anesthetic, inside the injection, as it is injected into the muscle will block the pain receptors which are encircling the muscle, in turn, lessening the pain signals which are transmitted to the brain.  If your doctor decides to use a steroid medication, then this will help lessen the inflammation and the swelling of the tissue found around the nerves, which may also help reduce the pain.  Keep in mind that with these injections, your results will greatly vary as all patients will experience different results.

Trigger point injection side effects

While side effects are rare, they can still occur.  General side effects noted include post-injection pain, which often resolves itself after a few days, or a shrinkage in fat, leaving a dent in the skin in case a steroid medication is administered.  Other side effects, as with any injection, may include bleeding, redness and/or an infection at the injection site.

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How Much Does a Stone Tower Winery Wedding Cost?

The Stone Tower Winery, located just south of Leesburg, Virginia, offers a one-of-a-kind wedding, providing the perfect balance between a rustic charm and sophisticated elegance on its more than 200 acres.

“wineries” (CC BY 2.0) by Witches Falls Cottages

The reported Stone Tower Winery wedding costs

The prices, as per the official website, will greatly depend on the time of year and day of the week.  In the table below, these prices would include the Virginia Room, an outdoor ceremony of your choice, the Barrel Club Room and Outdoor Patio cocktail hour and Vineyard View reception.

NOTE:  These prices were sourced from the official website and are subject to change.  Again, this price includes the Virginia Room, the ceremony space, cocktail hour and the reception room.  All of the furniture required for your reception and ceremony would be included as well.  Tipping and corkage fees are additional costs to consider.

Since the winery does not have an in-house caterer, you will be responsible for choosing your caterer.  While the winery does have a list of preferred caterers, they are willing to work with other caterers as long as they are licensed, insured and can provide references.  With that being said, the food costs will greatly depend on the caterer you choose and the type of food/menu you create.  For averages, an inexpensive buffet setup could cost $20 to $30 per person, while a higher-end sit-down type setup could well surpass $125+ a person.

An open bar, if wanted, will be yet another cost to budget in as well.

Wedding-Spot.com notes the average cost to get married at the Stone Tower Winery will be between $16,939 and $24,954 for a ceremony & reception for 100 guests.

Love & Lavender, in its review, claimed the target budget was $20,000, and for the most part, they stayed on track, going over by a few hundred dollars.

Ceremony space options

The winery offers two outdoor ceremony sites, one atop of the Red Vineyard Hill with views of the surrounding Bull Run Mountains or alongside the lake with a backdrop featuring the stone walls and large oak doors of the Wine Grotto.  During the offseason, the winery also offers the Tank Room, a location where couples can wed between the wine tanks beneath the high ceilings.

Prior to any ceremony, the bridal party can start their day in the Virginia Room, a space where the party can get ready for the event.  This space includes mirrors, lounge-like seating and an ensuite bathroom.

The cocktail hour

After the ceremony, the guests will be able to enjoy cocktails inside of the Barrel Club Room, which is located on the lower level of the main building, also offering access to the adjacent Outdoor Patio.  The cocktail hour can either take place entirely outside or can be combined with access to both an outdoor or indoor space.

Reception space

The unique reception space, the Vineyard View Ballroom, offers full wall-to-ceiling windows, offering views of the vineyard, rolling hills and the nearby mountains. This ballroom is able to accommodate up to 230 guests with room for a dance floor and more.

Facts to know

The winery will not allow any other brands, aside from its own, during your wedding.  The winery does mandate that you must purchase one 12-bottle case for every 25 guests who are attending the wedding.  All wines purchased for your wedding will be sold at a discounted rate of 15 percent off.  As for beer and liquor, it is permitted as long the caterers and the bartenders meet the venue’s requirements.

All couples may show up at 9 a.m. to use the Virginia Room on the day of the wedding and the ceremony site, the ballroom and catering kitchen will be available no later than 2 p.m. on the day of.  Cocktail hours will begin at 5:30 p.m. and the venue, as per this guide, recommends a ceremony start time no earlier than 5:30 p.m. to ensure a smooth cocktail hour transition.  Per county ordinances, all weddings must be completed by midnight, with the music turned off at 11 p.m.  From start to finish, the rental fee above will include 10 hours of event time.

Couples, for an additional fee, are able to add a tasting room experience for their guests.

At the time of this publishing, close to 100 couples who did have their wedding here gave it an average of 4.9 out of 5.0 stars.

Couples can stay at the cottage on site for an overnight stay at $250 a night.

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How Much Does It Cost to Stucco a House?

Stucco, being around for centuries, was initially made by lime, sand and plant fibers, although it was very brittle as compared to the stucco as of today.

The ancient Greeks and Romans, at the time, used stucco, mixed with volcanic ash to strengthen it.

Modern-day stucco, as you can imagine, is much tougher due to the Portland cement mixed in and will not break as easy as the stucco historians found from thousands of years ago.  This strength, in turn, will make it an ideal foundation for siding material, commonly found in warmer climates such as Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada and New Mexico, as it withstands warmer temperatures.

“stucco” (CC BY 2.0) by hexapetala

How much does it cost to stucco a house?

Stucco, when applied, is done in three coats.  The first coat, referred to as the “scratch coat,” will be applied to provide the second, heavier coat, referred to as the “brown” or “leveling” coat, something to stick to.  The last coat, known as the “finishing” coat, will be employed to smooth the surface.

When all three of these coats are considered, the average costs, from what we researched from multiple contractors online, can vary anywhere from $7 to $11 per square foot to install.  These costs will greatly vary depending on the setup of your, the geographical location, the contractor you choose and if you need any enhancements (we will get into this later).

As all jobs will be so unique, we highly advise you try out HomeAdvisor.com.  This is a free service which allows you to describe your job, and, in turn, contractors in your area, who are licensed and insured, will contact you with a ballpark estimate based on your pictures and description.  There are no obligations and this allows you to browse through multiple quotes to make an informed decision.

As for just the materials, an 80-pound bag, depending on the quality and thickness of the mix, can cost about $10 per bag.  A finishing coat can cost another $20 per bag.  To give you an indication as to how many bags you would need, the average 1,600 square foot home will need between 120 to 140 bags, depending on the size of exterior walls, and about 22 bags of finishing stucco.  In conclusion, the materials alone for a 1,600 square foot home would cost $1,640.

GuzzoStucco, a masonry professional, based in New Jersey, noted the costs of stucco can be based on so many factors such as the style of architecture, the design, the number of openings and accessories to name a few.  While he did note the industry average tends to be in the $7.50 to $11 per square foot range, there are many factors, again, which he talks about in depth, that, you, as a consumer, should be warned about.

The extra costs to consider

Permits – Permits, before the job can even begin, will be needed in almost any jurisdiction.  If the siding isn’t installed properly, moisture can make its way in between the siding and the home, leading to rot and mold.  The inspector, as the stucco is being applied, will be inspected along the way to ensure everything is installed as it should.  Permits, depending on where you live, will cost anywhere from $100 to $300 total.

Existing siding or brick – If this job is for an existing home, then you will need to add costs on top of the estimates mentioned prior.  On average, removing old siding, depending on the type and setup of the home, can add another $1 to $3 per square foot.  If you had brick and were considered stucco, then the job could be much more complex as the contractor would need to use a backer board and netting to properly install the stucco.

Geographical area – As we mentioned, one huge factor will be your geographical location.  A contractor in the middle of Arizona, for example, will probably charge much less than someone in the pricer San Diego area.  Expect to pay $40 to $60 per hour for the labor alone.

Painting – Stucco, when applied, will be gray or a tannish color, but, it can be colored or painted in the mix.  If you do decide to paint it, the contractor will recommend you wait at least six to eight weeks to allow it to dry and harden before the paint is applied.  As stucco has a rougher texture, a contractor will almost always spray the paint on, rather than roll it, to create a cleaner look.  The costs of painting stucco will depend on the type of paint, the paint brand, the painter you hire and how thick the paint it.  With these factors in mind, be prepared to budget $1 to $2 per square foot to hire a professional.

Repairs in the future – In the future, you will need to consider repairs as they can and will happen.  If dealing with cracks, for example, the average repair can cost about $300 to $900, depending on the severity, while patching spots can be done for as little as $25 if you were to do it on your own.  We did create an in-depth guide on stucco repair costs in the past that we encourage you to check out.

Shape/size of the home – Houses with multiple levels and/or uniquely shaped windows, porches or shutters can often increase the costs as the labor time will increase due to reaching these higher-than-average levels.

The pros of stucco siding

As compared to other siding methods, stucco has wonderful insulation qualities.

Due to its thickness, it can create a quiet atmosphere inside the home, making it perfect for loud conditions.

In case of a fire, stucco can hold for more than an hour, which has been credited with saving multiple homes in the past.

It installs much easier when compared to other siding methods on the market.  For smaller projects, it can be completed in less than two days.

Stucco has been known to last longer than 50 years.

The cons of stucco siding

It can be more expensive per square foot when compared to other methods.

If installing in an area prone to heavier rain and/or an area where the ground is likely to shift, it may not be ideal as it will not hold up to the elements.

Stucco maintenance

As long as maintained properly, stucco can last a lifetime.  Being extremely porous, it can and will absorb rain with ease, which can cause deteriorating, mildew, moss and/or mold growth.  It can also crack during freeze-thaw weather conditions, and for that reason, stucco will require additional maintenance as when compared to stone, brick or siding.  Nolan Painting, for example, to combat these issues, recommends sealing your stucco with a concrete/masonry sealant, which is designed to penetrate into the stucco to stop moisture, every four to five years.  Doing this on a regular basis can help prevent damage which could prevent the need for a full replacement in the future.

If the stucco is older and you’re starting to notice cracks, then an elastomeric coating could be a better choice as this coating is waterproof and can help seal hairline cracks.  If you ignore these cracks and it develops past the coating, then the crack will stretch, allowing moisture to get behind and create a bubble appearance.

Every few months, inspect your stucco for any paint cracking, bubbling and/or peeling as you will want to prevent the cracks from becoming worse.  Even if it’s a minor crack, stucco patch kits are available for as little as $10.

Try to wash your walls at least twice a year to help remove any dirt, mold or stains on the exterior stucco.

The different types of stucco finishes

There are tons of different texture options on the market, with over 30+ distinct textures that can be applied.  Below are the most popular choices most homeowners choose, however.

Cat Face – Known as a California finish, this is a rugged coat of stucco which is sprayed over the exterior and set to dry.  Next, a second, smoother layer will help break it in, allowing the first layer to peek through, creating the “cat face.”

Combed – A combed stucco has a thin, narrow ridge that sticks through the surface, creating a swirl or loop-like surface.

Dash – This is a rougher looking stucco, a process where stucco is flung over the exterior using a unique brush known as a “dash” brush.

Lace – One of the most popular textures, this texture is done when the stucco is sprayed onto a surface and then knocked down by polishing it out with a towel.  In the end, the smooth surface will be marked with lacy rivulets, which helps hide any building defects.

Sand – This type of finish is whisked on by hand using a device known as a plaster float.  To picture it, it’s like a spade with a sponge connected at the end to create a popcorn-like finish.

Smooth – A very popular choice for most modern-day homes, a smooth surface will be smoothed down by using a trowel and is often done before staining the home.

Worm – Using a specialized aggregate that’s hand troweled, a worm texture is spread onto the surface in a roundabout motion, creating a look similar to the lace texture mentioned prior.

How to apply stucco

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Stone House at Stirling Ridge Wedding Cost

The Stone House at Stirling Ridge, located in Warren, New Jersey, sits on 10 lush acres, all surrounded by the hills of the Watchung Mountains, making it a perfect scenario for an intimate feel for up to 350 guests.

“Wedding dress” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Jamiriquai

The reported Stone House at Stirling Ridge wedding costs

The cost of getting married at the Stone House at Stirling Ridge will all depend on the time and date, the number of guests attending, where you want to get married and how you customized your wedding.  From the looks of it, the venue does offer wedding packages, where you’re able to pick and choose what you want for your special day.  While the venue does encourage you to contact them for a quote, the official website does not provide any information; however, from what we gathered from outside third-party sources, we found that the package prices would range from $130 to $190 per person, with no ceremony/reception fees.  These fees were sourced by NewJerseyBride.com.

While the blog post is outdated, this review on whitecastleandcupcakes.wordpress.com noted the costs at The Gallery would cost $100 per person on a Saturday evening.  Again, the post is outdated, but we linked to it because we felt it offered great insight into the pros and cons from an outsiders perspective.

Additional costs to consider

NOTE:  These costs were sourced from this official PDF.  Use this as a resource only as these fees are subject to change.  All of the fees are enhancements to your wedding and are 100 percent optional.

The ceremony spaces

Grand Ballroom – Aside from being offered as a reception space, the Grand Ballroom can also accommodate a ceremony.  Offering 16-foot floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the manicured gardens, this can make for the perfect background for any ceremony.

Grand Ballroom Patio – Outside of the Grand Ballroom lies the patio, where couples can exchange their vows, all while against a massive backdrop of candlelight.

The Lodge – Like the Grand Ballroom, the Lodge can also be used as a ceremony space as well.  Perfect for an indoor ceremony, the Lodge offers an industrial-like feeling, equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, wrought-iron chandeliers and a unique 20-foot stone fireplace.

The Lodge Patio – Outside of the Lodge also lies yet another patio, which offers a surrounding view of the venue’s meticulously landscaped gardens.

The reception spaces

Grand Ballroom – The Grand Ballroom offers a rustic, yet contemporary feel, all surrounded by the venue’s manicured grounds.  Features 16-foot ceilings, lampshade chandeliers, a private terrace, patio with fire pits and floor-to-ceiling glass doors and windows, this space is able to accommodate up to 350 guests for the wedding reception.  You can view the floorplan of this space here.

The Lodge – Nestled in the Watchung Mountains and surrounded by acres of gardens, this midcentury multi-level modern space is fitted with wrought-iron chandeliers, a 20-foot tall stone fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows, all offering a unique picturesque backdrop for your reception.  Outside the space, guests can enjoy the reflection pool, the outdoor cabanas and fire pits.  This space is able to accommodate up to 175 guests.

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How Much Does an In-Shape Gym Membership Cost?

Dr. Mort Rothbard, a retired doctor at the time, transformed what used to be a racquetball club in Stockton, California, into a full-service health club.  At the time, Dr. Rothbard believed if people were in better shape, they could avoid many of the issues he witnessed at his practice.

From that day, the first, still thriving to this day, has been joined by more than 70+ other locations in California.

“untitled-174.jpg” (CC BY 2.0) by ljgoyke

The reported In-Shape Gym membership costs

The costs of joining the In-Shape Gym all depends on the location you want to join and the promotion currently being held at the time.  Seeing the gym offers a variety of club levels — gold, platinum, diamond and double diamond — each gym, from what we researched, will have varying fees.  For the most part, however, the gold standard gyms will cost about $29 to $49 a month for single access and about to $25 to $55 a month for unlimited club access, meaning you can attend any gym with this membership option.  You can get official prices by inputting your zip code here and clicking on the location you want to join.

For example, at the time of this publishing, if you signed up for an autopay one-club membership and paid the $349 enrollment fee, your monthly dues would be $19.99 a month, a $20 savings.  This, however, was a promotion, so it’s unsure how long this rate would last if you were to sign up for a membership.

Additional costs to think about

Enrollment fees – Depending on the time of the year and the promotion being held, the one-time enrollment fees can be as little as $0 to as much as $399+

Lessons, clinics and leagues – The gym offers multiple lessons, clinics and leagues for swimming, tennis, racquetball and basketball, all for an additional charge.

Childcare – Third-party sources claim it can cost close to $10+ a month to add a child to your account for childcare.

Towel Service – Towels will not come as part of a membership package and will cost $1 each.

Tanning – Adding tanning to your package, from what we researched, can be another $20 a month.

Day Pass – If you want to join the club for just the day, the costs are said to be about $16.

The amenities

Cardio – The cardio theatre, cycle studio, cycle classes, indoor/outdoor swimming pool, 29-minute circuit area, multiple cardio classes and indoor/outdoor running tracks.

Strength and Weight Training – Free weights, resistance training, selectorized equipment, TRX®, strength classes, Les Mills BODYPUMP® classes and 360FIT®.

Sports and Recreation – Tennis courts, racquetball, basketball and a kids outdoor play area.

Core Fitness – 360FIT®, 29-Minute Circuit, a core area, stretching area, shapes fitness area for beginners, WELLBEATS and personal training options.

Studios – Group fitness, group cycling, mind-body yoga and pilates studios.

Classes – Les Mills BODYPUMP®, Les Mills BODYCOMBAT®, ZUMBA®, yoga, cycle, active aging, dance, kids group, mind-body martial arts, strength and aqua classes.

Relaxation – VIP lounge, sauna, spa, steam room, hydromassage, massage therapy and tanning options.

Club Essentials – Locker rooms, locker rentals, free Wi-Fi, towel service, salon, juice bar, FitStart® Program and a kid zone.

NOTE:  These amenities will vary by location.  Use the official tool to see the amenities a gym near you.

What does a membership include?

A single club membership grants access to your home location only, whereas the multiple club membership offers access to all GOLD clubs only.  Inclusions also include unlimited group classes, a free FitStart session, and access to all of the amenities your gym has to offer.

How to save money

Always refer to the official website before joining as they always have a free guest pass for first-time members.  This is a great way to check out the club without any commitment.

The club does have an official promotions page which you may want to check out as well to see if any deals appeal to you.

Senior and corporate discounts do apply.  Talk with either your employer or, if you’re older than 65, you may be entitled to a discount as well.

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How Much Does Eldorado Stone Cost?

Eldorado stone captures all of the subtleties of real stone, creating a unique space, making it the most believable architectural stone veneer in the world, according to the company’s official website.

“Stone Veneer under LP SmartSide” (CC BY 2.0) by Sery Content Development

The reported ElDorado stone cost per square foot

The costs of ElDorado stone will greatly depend on the series, the piece type, and the company you purchase from.  From what we saw, there were multiple types of Eldorado stone on the market, all with varying prices.  Inside our table below, we broke down the averages we had found for the materials only:

NOTE:  These are the costs for the materials only and will not include professional installation.  As we mention below, add another $6.50 to $10 a square foot to the totals above for an estimate as to what you would pay for the installation plus materials.  If you want to see what each type looks like, this brochure offers pictures of each of the series mentioned above.

As for the installation process, if you were to hire a licensed contractor, the quotes, aside from the materials, would be about $6.50 to $10 a square foot, from what we researched.  These costs would all depend on the contractor, your geographical area and the complexity of the job.  If you want to hire a professional, we highly recommend you consider HomeAdvisor.com to receive multiple quotes for free.  Here, you explain your job and contractors will contact you with a free quote with no obligation on your part.

In conclusion, materials, on average, will cost $7 to $11 per square foot, while installation will cost another $6.50 to $10 per square foot, effectively bringing the job, if you were to hire a professional, to $13.50 to $21 per square foot installed.

The difference between Eldorado stone and real stone

A manufactured stone veneer, such as Eldorado stone, is cast from a mold of real stone, which, in turn, creates a lighter piece, roughly about 10 pounds per square foot.  As natural stone will require wall ties and footings, which can increase the installation time and effectively, the costs, a stone veneer can adhere easier to just about any structurally sound surface, taking much less time during the install process.

When installed, the benefits, as mentioned, can be much cheaper, often as much as 50 percent less than natural stone.  As it can be cut to size, the waste factor, when compared to natural stone, is about 8% less.

The sizes to expect

The thickness ranges from 0.625″ to 3.625″ depending on the texture and weighs approximately 10-12 pounds per square foot, qualifying it as an adhered veneer because it weighs less than 15 pounds per square foot.  This is the weight uninstalled.

Additionally, there will be 0.5 to one inch of mortar thickness behind the stone, making the entire thickness, from the substrate to the surface of the stone 2.5 to 3 inches thick on average.

As for the installed weight, it will vary depending on the type of stone, the mortar used and grout technique.  The company states the stone can weigh up to 15 pounds per square foot based on these factors.

Where can I buy it?

Eldorado stone is offered at more than 1,000 authorized retailers.  You can find one in your area by going here.  At an authorized center, they can also connect you with a knowledgeable Mason in the area as well who would be able to help with the installation process.

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Blue Hill at Stone Barns Wedding Cost

The Blue Hill at Stone Barns, an upscale restaurant located at the Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture in Pocantico Hills, New York, is about 45 minutes away from the heart of New York City.

The focus here, as according to the website, is the farm-to-table menu, sourcing its food from the surrounding fields and pastures within a 250-mile radius.

“Outside Blue Hill at Stone Barns” (CC BY 2.0) by City Foodsters

The reported Blue Hill at Stone Barns wedding cost

If thinking about getting married here, there are a few costs you will need to budget for:  the rental fee, which includes the use of the HayLoft, the HayBarn and Dooryard Garden (weather permitting), the ceremony fee and the catering fee.

NOTE:  These were averages sourced by other couples who used the venue for their wedding.  Use these estimates as that only — an estimate.  Refer to the venue for more information as every wedding will be different with inclusions, etc.

Westchester Magazine, while breaking down the costs, stated that if you included the ceremony fees, passed hors d’oeuvres, three plated courses, wedding cake or dessert, champagne, wine pairings, and open bar, tables, linens, chairs, table settings, valet parking, lighting and the use of bridal suite, you would be looking at about $73,000 for a peak Saturday evening date.  This fee also included the mandatory 22% administrative fee and 7.375% Westchester sales tax.

The event space

All of the wedding receptions held here, as per WomanGettingMarried.com, will take place inside the HayLoft event space, however, if the wedding cannot accommodate the space, the venue requires the party to rent out its private dining room for an additional fee.

Its private dining space accommodates up to 14 guests, whereas the HayLoft can seat up to 260.  Over 15,000 square feet of space is available for the event.

The ceremony, if held on its premises, will include an additional hour, the ceremony chairs and the use of the grounds prior to the event for any photography.  The ceremony can be held on-site in its courtyard, according to the official website, while the cocktail hour can be held on the terrace.

Catering

Barber and executive chef Michael Anthony will create a seasonal menu, strictly from either the farm or a surrounding one.  For the typical dinner, guests will receive about seven passed hors d’oeuvres, a full bar, an amuse-bouche, a savory appetizer, a fish or meat course, plus a dessert, according to NYMag.com.  A $15 per slice wedding cake cutting fee will apply.

Facts you should know

Westchester Magazine noted it was among “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” in 2015 and 2016.

If the peak prices seem to be too much, consider getting married on a non-peak day.  As with any wedding venue, customizing the date can greatly decrease the costs, sometimes by as much as 40%.  Talk with an event coordinator at the venue to see if they can work with your budget.

As it is a very popular venue, experts recommend booking your wedding date at least one year in advance.

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How Much Does It Cost to Repair an Xbox One?

The Xbox One, like many electronics, is bound to fail at one point, especially is consistently being used for games and movie watching.

While most of the repairs can be fixed on your own by following how-to guides on YouTube, some often would rather avoid the stress and let the professionals handle the job.

Whether it’s Microsoft or a third-party professional, the costs will vary greatly depending on the type of repair required.

“XBOX ONE X Gamescom” (CC BY 2.0) by dronepicr

The average reported Xbox One repair costs

The costs to repair your Xbox One will depend on the type of repair required, the professional you choose and if your Xbox One is still under the manufacturer’s warranty.  The most common repairs, from what we researched, was often repairing or replacing the console’s hard drive, HDMI port pins or the CD tray if you were to hire a third-party source.

If you were to send the Xbox directly to Microsoft outside of warranty, which, most people often do, then Microsoft will charge a flat $115 to repair the console, regardless of the repair.

However, if Microsoft deems the repair is due to a manufacturer defect and your console is outside of the warranty, then there is a good chance they will cover the entire repair, according to some reports we read online.

While optional, Microsoft also offers a service, known as “advance exchange,” which will cost an additional $15 plus a $400 hold fee.  Again, this is optional, but it allows Microsoft to send you a refurbished unit right away, with some people reporting receiving their new Xbox in as little as two days.

From our research, if you were to choose a third-party service provider, the costs were close, but instead of waiting weeks for your Xbox to return, you could have the repair done in as little as a day, depending on the provider you used.  In our table below, we averaged out some of the quotes we received online:

NOTE:  These were quotes from third-party sources, not Microsoft.  As mentioned, Microsoft will charge a flat $115 for all out of warranty repairs.

ubreakifix.com, for example, stated on its official pricing sheet that it would cost $129 to repair the disc drive, whereas GamersRepair.com charged $99.

The warranty repair process

If your console is under warranty, then you will first want to make sure your Xbox is registered under your Microsoft username.  If you’re unsure, you can do so here.

Once registered, you can then click the “request repair” button, where it will then ask you a series of questions, such as the problem and your contact information.

After you input the information, Microsoft will then give you a series of options, ranging from simply fixing the problem or replacing it with a refurbished one.  These options can change, however.

When the information is received, you will then receive a service order number and an order confirmation email that has the shipping information.  You will want to make sure you ship your Xbox in as soon as possible because if you don’t ship within the 30 days from submission, the order will be canceled and will no longer be valid.

Once the package is received by Microsoft, you will then be able to track the status of the repair by clicking on the “order status” tab on this page.

What you should know

If you do send your Xbox to Microsoft, they estimate the total time to be anywhere from two to three weeks.

If you paid with a credit card, there could be a good chance the card has warranty benefits, which will extend the warranty past the manufacturer’s warranty rules.  Talk with your credit card or read the fine print to see if your purchase qualifies.

Attempt to repair the Xbox before sending it in.  Amazon.com, for example, sells complete repair kits for less than $10 and almost every issue can be diagnosed by following a Youtube video or following an ifixit.com guide.

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How Much Does Flexogenix Cost?

The Flexogenix knee pain clinics, founded by board-certified radiologists and staffed board-certified physicians, utilize non-surgical joint pain treatment methods, such as regenerative medicine and physical therapy, to help patients regain their strength and mobility.

The five current locations, found in North Carolina and California, customize a plan to each patient’s need to help restore any joint function without surgery and return your life back to normal.

How much do Flexogenix treatments cost?

The cost of Flexogenix treatments will greatly depend on your treatment your physician recommends at the time and the health insurance policy you currently have as the clinics do accept most insurance plans, including Medicare.  As we get into further, the clinic, from what we researched, follows a five-step protocol, each with its own series of treatments.

The stem cell injection shots, which happen in the early stages, are said to cost about $500 per injection without insurance, while the hyaluronic acid injections will often be covered by your health insurance policy.  If not covered, these injections can cost about $300 per injection on average.  These fees were noted by one reviewer on this Yelp thread for the Los Angeles location.

The x-rays and ultrasound, which also happen during your first consultation visit, will cost about $300 without insurance.

As for the brace, the costs could not be confirmed, but the average customized knee brace can cost close to $1,000.

Factoring in the multiple injections, x-rays, ultrasounds, customized braces and routine visits, as part of its five-step plan, the entire program can exceed thousands of dollars.  Since everyone will have a unique situation, only the clinic will be able to determine the right course of action and provide you with a detailed treatment plan.

One reviewer on this Yelp review said he spent thousands of dollars, which included a few followup visits.

What happens during a visit?

During your first visit to a clinic, a board-certified physician, according to the official website, will offer you a no-cost exam.  During this time, he or she will use highly accurate medical imaging equipment to see how bad your joints are and pinpoint the exact location of the problem in question.

From there, the physician will be able to interpret your results, help diagnose your condition and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the clinic.  In some cases, the clinic, seeing it doesn’t use surgery, may recommend surgery as your only option, assisting you in finding someone if you require it.  If you do qualify, then the clinic will be able to provide you a detailed analysis and a treatment plan, which will take place at one of their clinics.

The treatment options

Braces and Support – The in-house GaitScan technology will be able to scan your foot and map pressure, helping create a customized orthotic which will be inserted into your shoe.  Aside from the shoe inserts, the same technology can help customize a knee brace to help address inflammation, allow the joint to heal and help with asymmetric alignment.

Physical Conditioning Program – Based on their Kineti-Flex approach, this program involves using one-on-one therapy and evidence-based treatment to help support, realign and improve the patient’s joint pain.  Using their in-house technology, known as Zero G-Flex Anti-Gravity, this equipment will help reduce pressure on the joints, offering someone suffering from extreme pain to help regain any movement.  These sessions will always be performed by a fully certified therapist will help walk you through these exercises to help you regain your strength.

Progeni-Flex – This regenerative medicine treatment method uses stem cell and platelet-rich plasma to help promote healing, relieve joint pain and help rebuild your natural tissue.  This treatment option will be recommended for those with rotator cuff injuries, chronic joint pain, tennis elbow, ligament tears or carpal tunnel syndrome.

VisCare-Flex – With this procedure, a physician will use the same technology he or she used in the initial exam to help accurately inject the hyaluronic acid into the designated area.  This entire process will take less than an hour and the clinic notes you will be out the very same day, even able to drive yourself home without any assistance.  If successful, this injection should improve your joint pain for the next six months.

The five-step Knee-Flex program

Combining the treatment methods prior, Flexogenix created a specialized Knee-Flex program using the very latest FDA approved treatment options to help patients with a variety of options all underneath one roof.

1. The step involves using advanced imaging methods to help outline the sensory nerves throughout the knee.  Implementing cold therapy to numb the nerves, this will then block them from transmitting the pain signals.  This type of therapy will help replace the use of steroids and protect sufferers from the long-term effects of steroid injections.  This pain relief, as mentioned by the clinic, will be temporary but will not replace the reconditioning which is necessary to see results.
2. Using the advanced image-guidance technology, the medical team will administer a dose of hyaluronic acid with precision, which will help provide lubrication and temper the frictions inside the joint to diminish any bone sensation you may feel, ultimately lessening the pain and increasing your mobility.
3. Once the knee pain is controlled, the third step involves the clinic’s reconditioning program, which will be designed to your specific needs.  During this step, the medical team will assess the many factors which may be contributing to your joint pain, and with this information, they will be able to produce a specific conditioning formula to not only correct the problem but prevent the pain from happening again.
4. Next, the team will carefully examine the alignment of your joints to determine if you would be a great fit for either a short-term or long-term customized brace.  As with all of its treatments, they claim to research the latest technology in bracing, allowing the patient to feel maximize comfort as the braces can be very effective in unloading and redistributing the burden off the frayed areas.
5. The final step involves injected an advanced injection to stop any further degrading and promoting the body’s natural healing process to create a strong foundation to help restore the joint.  Together, with Kineti-Flex® and bracing, it creates an advanced and comprehensive plan which helps patients avoid surgery.

Flexogenix reviews

All five of their official locations are reviewed on Yelp, with reviews ranging from 3.5 to 5 out 5 stars.  The positive reviewers noted the convenience, the treatment options, the cleanliness and the courtesy the doctors provided, while most of the negative reviewers talked about the treatments unable to help with the pain and/or the cost wasn’t worth it.

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