Cole Hartman
DIY & home-projects writer
Columbus, OH
Cole learned home projects the way most people do — by doing a few of them wrong the first time. He writes the practical math side of DIY: how much paint you actually need, whether a flooring quote is fair, what a project really costs before you start. He's a hands-on hobbyist, not a licensed contractor, so he sticks to the planning and the numbers and leaves the code-and-permit calls to the pros.
Articles by Cole Hartman
Carport vs. Garage Cost Calculator: Which Vehicle Protection Option Offers Better ROI for Your Property
Trying to decide between adding a carport or a full garage? This guide breaks down material costs, permit requirements, installation timelines, and long-term home value impact so you can calculate which option makes the most financial sense for your property size, climate, and budget.
Sep 17, 2026Irrigation System Installation Cost Calculator: Sprinkler vs. Drip System ROI and Water Savings Analysis
Wondering if an in-ground irrigation system is worth the upfront cost? This guide breaks down installation prices for sprinkler vs. drip systems by yard size, compares DIY vs. professional setup, and calculates how much you can save on water bills and landscaping maintenance over time — plus the home value impact of a smart irrigation setup.
Sep 15, 2026Detached Garage Addition Cost Calculator: New Build vs. Prefab Kit ROI Analysis
Thinking about adding a detached garage? This guide breaks down the true cost of building from scratch versus installing a prefab kit, factoring in permits, foundation type, electrical hookups, and how much a detached garage adds to your home's resale value by region.
Sep 12, 2026Flooring Cost Calculator: Hardwood vs. Laminate vs. LVP vs. Carpet ROI Analysis
Choosing the wrong flooring can cost you thousands in resale value and premature replacement. This guide breaks down the true installed cost per square foot for hardwood, laminate, luxury vinyl plank, and carpet—factoring in durability, maintenance, and the actual return you'll see when you sell.
Sep 9, 2026Home Equity Sharing Agreement Calculator: How Much Equity Are You Really Giving Up?
Equity sharing agreements let you tap home value without monthly payments, but the true cost can be staggering. Learn how to calculate your actual payout at sale, compare top providers' terms, and determine whether an equity share deal beats a HELOC or cash-out refinance for your specific situation.
Sep 3, 2026Dryer Vent Cleaning and Replacement Cost Calculator: Fire Prevention ROI vs. DIY Maintenance
Clogged dryer vents cause nearly 3,000 house fires annually, yet most homeowners skip this $100–$175 service. Learn how to calculate the true cost of professional cleaning vs. DIY kits, when vent rerouting or full replacement is necessary, and how this overlooked maintenance task compares to homeowner's insurance deductibles and fire damage restoration costs.
Sep 1, 2026Skylights vs. Sun Tunnels Cost Calculator: Which Natural Light Solution Adds More Home Value
Thinking about brightening a dark room? Compare the full installation costs, energy implications, leak risks, and resale value of traditional skylights versus tubular sun tunnels—with a room-by-room ROI breakdown to help you choose the right solution for your home.
Aug 29, 2026Staircase Remodel Cost Calculator: Open Riser vs. Closed, Carpet vs. Hardwood, and Railing Upgrade ROI
Thinking about updating your stairs? Break down the true cost of staircase renovations by material, style, and labor—and find out which upgrades actually add resale value versus which are purely cosmetic.
Aug 26, 2026Retaining Wall Cost Calculator: Materials, Height, and Drainage ROI Analysis
Planning a retaining wall for your sloped yard? Learn how to estimate costs by material type—timber, concrete block, natural stone, and segmental retaining wall systems—factoring in wall height, drainage requirements, permits, and long-term maintenance. Includes ROI comparison against regrading and erosion control alternatives.
Aug 22, 2026Moving Cost Calculator: DIY Truck Rental vs. Full-Service Movers vs. Portable Storage Containers
Planning a move? Discover the true all-in cost of renting a truck yourself, hiring full-service movers, or using portable storage containers — including hidden fees, insurance, and what each option costs per mile and square foot of belongings.
Aug 20, 2026Land Contract vs. Traditional Mortgage: Total Cost Comparison for Buyers Who Can't Qualify for Conventional Financing
Land contracts (seller financing) can seem like a lifeline when banks say no, but the true cost is often buried in higher interest rates, balloon payments, and zero equity protection. This guide breaks down the total cost of a land contract vs. a traditional mortgage, who actually benefits, and what to calculate before you sign.
Aug 18, 2026Lead Paint Testing and Abatement Cost Calculator: Budget Guide for Pre-1978 Homes
Buying or renovating a home built before 1978? Discover how much lead paint testing, encapsulation, and full abatement actually cost, how to prioritize rooms by risk level, and whether disclosure requirements affect your home's resale value and insurance premiums.
Aug 16, 2026