Resources
How-to guides, renovation checklists, and quick-reference tables to help you plan and execute your project.
Live calculators
Jump to a tool and get your materials list now.
→→→→
Browse all calculators →Paint Calculator
Gallons, primer, roller covers and tape for any room.
Tile Calculator
Tile count, thinset, grout, spacers and backer board.
Concrete Calculator
Bags or yards for slabs, footings and post holes.
Mulch Calculator
Bags vs. bulk cubic yards for any bed depth.
Step-by-step guides
In-depth how-tos linked to the calculators you'll need.
Paint & Walls
How to Paint a Room
Prep, prime, cut-in, and roll — step by step, with a complete materials checklist.
Read guide →
Planning
Bathroom Renovation Checklist
Everything to plan, buy, and schedule for a full bathroom gut-and-replace.
Read guide →
Planning
Kitchen Remodel Planning Guide
The trade-by-trade order of work, what to line up, and where flooring and cabinets fit.
Read guide →
Flooring & Tile
Tile Installation Guide
Substrate prep, layout lines, setting tile, grouting, and sealing — for floors and walls.
Read guide →
Outdoor
Deck Building Materials List
Footings, joists, decking boards, hardware — everything in one checklist.
Read guide →
Concrete
Concrete Mixing & Pouring
Mix ratios, curing times, and common mistakes for slabs, footings, and post holes.
Read guide →
Quick reference
Industry-standard figures used in our calculators.
Paint coverage by surface type
- Smooth drywall: 350–400 sq ft per gallon
- Textured/rough walls: 250–300 sq ft per gallon
- Bare wood (primer): 200–300 sq ft per gallon
- Masonry: 100–150 sq ft per gallon
Tile waste factors
- Straight lay, square room: 10%
- Diagonal or 45° layout: 15–20%
- Complex pattern or many cuts: 20%+
- Always buy from the same dye lot
Grout joint guides
- 1/16 in: rectified large-format porcelain
- 1/8 in: natural stone, polished tile
- 3/16 in: standard ceramic (most common)
- 1/4 in: handmade, rustic, or brick tile
Concrete bag coverage
- 40 lb bag: ~0.30 cu ft
- 60 lb bag: ~0.45 cu ft
- 80 lb bag: ~0.60 cu ft
- 1 yard = 27 cu ft ≈ 45 × 80 lb bags
More guides coming soon
We're writing in-depth how-to guides for the most common renovation projects.
Questions or suggestions? Get in touch.