Construction Calculators & DIY Guides

Free calculators and step-by-step guides for all your building and construction projects

36 calculators • 14 DIY guides

Published By ChallengeAnswer Editorial Team
Reviewed by
Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Dr. Snezana LawrencePhD in Mathematical History
Dr. Snezana Lawrence

Dr. Snezana Lawrence

Mathematical Historian

15+ years experience

PhD from Yale University. Published mathematical historian ensuring precision in all calculations.

Education

PhD in Mathematical History - Yale University

Mathematical HistoryTime CalculationsMathematical Conversions
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DIY Construction Guides

Step-by-step instructions for common construction projects

How to Install Hardwood Flooring

Solid and engineered hardwood installation with nail-down, floating, and glue-down methods

Intermediate⏱️ 2-3 days

How to Install Vinyl Plank Flooring

LVP/LVT floating floor installation with click-lock techniques

Beginner⏱️ 1-2 days

How to Install Drywall

Complete guide to hanging, taping, and mudding drywall

Intermediate⏱️ 1-2 days + finishing

How to Lay Tile

Floor and wall tile installation with grouting techniques

Intermediate⏱️ 3-4 days

How to Frame a Wall

2x4 wall framing with studs, headers, and rough openings

Intermediate⏱️ 1-2 days

How to Install a Door

Prehung interior and exterior door installation guide

Intermediate⏱️ 2-4 hours per door

How to Install Insulation

Batt, blown-in, and spray foam insulation installation

Beginner⏱️ 1-2 days

How to Build Stairs

Rise/run calculations, stringer cutting, and handrails

Advanced⏱️ 2-3 days

How to Pour Concrete

Site prep, mixing, finishing, and curing techniques

Intermediate⏱️ 2-3 days + 7 day cure

Roofing Materials Comparison

Compare asphalt, metal, tile, slate, and synthetic roofing options

Reference⏱️ Buying Guide

Best Plywood for Every Use

Plywood grades, types, thickness guide, and OSB comparison

Reference⏱️ Buying Guide

Actual Lumber Sizes Chart

Nominal vs actual dimensions for all dimensional lumber

Reference⏱️ Size Chart

How Much Does Plywood Weigh?

Plywood weight by thickness and type for 4x8 sheets

Reference⏱️ Weight Chart

Actual Plywood Thickness

Nominal vs actual plywood thickness and sheet sizes

Reference⏱️ Size Chart

About Our Construction Calculators

Our construction calculators are designed to help contractors, DIY enthusiasts, and homeowners estimate materials accurately for their building projects. Each calculator uses industry-standard formulas and accounts for waste factors to give you reliable estimates.

All calculators are reviewed by our expert team to ensure accuracy. Whether you're planning a small home improvement project or a large construction job, these tools will help you calculate the right amount of materials and avoid costly overbuying or project delays.

Expert Verified
Industry Standard Formulas
Waste Factor Included
Free to Use