FREE ONLINE CALCULATOR

Renovation Cost Calculator: Materials & Labor

A single price-per-square-foot figure can conceal important differences in package waste and project preparation. Use this calculator to make your assumptions visible and compare scenarios.

Configure your estimate

Starting numbers are illustrative only, not verified coverage or current prices. Replace them with measurements and your exact product’s data sheet before buying.

This calculator needs JavaScript. Enable JavaScript to use the interactive estimate; the formulas are explained below.

Tip: a product rate listed per layer and one listed for an entire system are not interchangeable. Use the rate described in each input label.

How to use this calculator

Enter your project area, your material package yield for one coat and the number of coats. Add package price, contractor labor per square foot, fixed preparation costs and a contingency percentage. The result shows the estimate by component.

The calculation explained

Packages = round up(area × coats × (1 + waste ÷ 100) ÷ coverage per pack). Subtotal = material packages × pack price + area in square feet × labor rate + fixed preparation. Total = subtotal × (1 + contingency ÷ 100).

Important: These are planning calculations, not installation instructions, warranty advice or professional specifications. Site and manufacturer requirements take priority. Default input values are examples only.

Check these details before ordering

  • Obtain local contractor quotes rather than treating the default labor value as a market rate.
  • Include travel, demolition, access, tax or permits if applicable.
  • Keep a contingency rather than assuming every project runs exactly as measured.

Frequently asked questions

Are the default prices current US market prices?

No. They are sample numbers for exploring the tool. Enter actual local quotes and product prices.

What unit is the labor input?

Labor is priced per square foot, including when your project measurement is entered in square metres.

Does this produce a contractor quote?

No. It is a planning estimate based entirely on the inputs you provide.

Read the related guide

For more context, see Microcement Budget Checklist: Beyond the Material Bags. It explains practical assumptions that a calculator cannot confirm for your individual project.