BuildListCalc
About Us
BuildListCalc is an independent material-estimating tool for North American homeowners, DIY builders, and remodeling pros. Each calculator and project calculator turns a few project measurements into a planning-level bill of materials, estimated quantities, and an estimated material cost — no account required.
What the site does
- Material calculators for single-material takeoffs: concrete, tile, siding, drywall, paint, gravel, lumber, insulation, and more.
- Project calculators for full assemblies: decks, fences, sheds, pergolas, patios, garage/ADU conversions, bathroom remodels, and outdoor kitchens.
- A bill of materials with quantities, waste allowance, and an estimated total that you can export to PDF and review with a supplier or a contractor.
How our estimates are produced
Every result comes from a deterministic estimator we write and maintain in-house: the same inputs always return the same quantities. Quantities use published coverage information and common planning assumptions — nominal material dimensions, typical spacing, and an explicit waste factor that is shown next to the result rather than hidden inside it. Those assumptions are not a determination that a design complies with local code.
Prices come from retail product records for common materials, adjusted by region where we have local data. When no current record is available, we use a documented BuildListCalc reference price and label the line that way. Prices move constantly, so each displayed retail price includes its capture date when available.
Results are estimates for planning and budgeting. Review them with your supplier, contractor, local building department, or a licensed professional, as appropriate, before ordering materials or starting work.
What we are not
- We are not a contractor: we do not perform, supervise, or warrant construction work.
- We are not a material retailer: we do not sell products or process orders.
- We do not issue code rulings, engineering sign-offs, or permits. Local codes and inspectors always take priority over anything shown here.
How we are funded
BuildListCalc is free to use. Some outbound links to retailers may be affiliate links: where an affiliate program is active and you buy through one, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. A contractor or lead partner may also pay us a referral fee for a quote request you choose to submit. Neither arrangement changes the quantity, waste factor, or specification an estimator returns.
Corrections and feedback
If a formula, coverage rate, or price looks wrong, please tell us at [email protected]. Include the page, the inputs you used, and the result you expected. Estimator corrections are the fastest way to improve the site for everyone.