TradesHow this works
Two options rarely price the same way. One sells by the yard and the other by the bag, one needs a delivery, the other needs a mixer. This tool takes each option on its own terms, works out the total installed cost for the same job, and tells you which one is cheaper and by how much. The math is unit cost times the quantity you need, grossed up for waste, plus any flat cost like delivery or rental.
Every price is a number you enter, so nothing is looked up or assumed. Keep both options priced for the same finished work, then use the result as a starting point. The dollars here do not count labor, install time, or quality, and those are often what actually decide the job.
Common questions
Why compare total cost instead of the unit price?
Sticker price hides the job. A material can look cheap per unit and still cost more once you buy enough to cover waste and pay a delivery or short-load fee. Total installed cost puts both options on the same footing for the same finished work, which is the number that actually leaves your pocket.
What goes in the delivery and fees box?
Any flat cost that comes with the option but does not scale with the unit price. Ready-mix delivery, a short-load fee, tool or mixer rental, or a restocking charge all belong here. Leave it at zero if there is none. These flat costs are what usually decide a small job.
Does the cheaper option always win?
No. This tool compares the dollars you enter for materials, not labor, install time, durability, or quality. Bags beat ready-mix at the yard and lose the afternoon to mixing. Read the tradeoffs, add the labor difference in your head, and let the number inform the call rather than make it.
Sources: Total installed cost = unit cost x quantity, grossed up for waste, plus flat costs. All prices are user inputs, none are stored or assumed.. Engine version 1.0.0. Risk tier 1.