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
Home Security System Cost Calculator: DIY vs. Professional Monitoring ROI Analysis
Compare the true costs of self-monitored security systems versus professional services, including equipment, installation, monthly fees, and insurance discounts to determine which option provides the best value for your home and budget.
May 21, 2026Kitchen Remodel Cost Calculator: How to Budget for Cabinets, Countertops, and Appliances by Home Value
Break down kitchen renovation costs by component and learn which upgrades offer the best return on investment. Calculate your optimal kitchen remodel budget based on your home's current value and local market conditions.
May 20, 2026Septic Tank Pumping Cost Calculator: How Often and How Much Based on Household Size and Usage
Calculate septic tank pumping costs and optimal scheduling based on household size, water usage, and tank capacity. Learn how proper maintenance prevents costly emergency repairs and system failures.
May 20, 2026Electrical Panel Upgrade Cost Calculator: 100 Amp to 200 Amp Service Improvement ROI
Calculate the true cost of upgrading your electrical panel from 100 to 200 amps, including permits, labor, and materials. Compare DIY vs professional installation costs and determine how modern electrical service impacts home value and safety compliance.
May 19, 2026Sump Pump Installation Cost Calculator: Basement Flooding Prevention ROI Analysis
Calculate the complete cost of sump pump installation including excavation, electrical work, and backup systems. Compare pedestal vs. submersible pumps and determine payback period through prevented flood damage and insurance premium reductions.
May 18, 2026Homeowner Title Insurance Claims Calculator: When and How Much You Can Recover from Coverage Disputes
Calculate potential recovery amounts from title insurance claims, including boundary disputes, easement issues, and undisclosed liens. Learn when to file a claim and estimate legal costs versus settlement amounts.
May 17, 2026Zoning Variance Application Cost Calculator: Permits, Legal Fees, and Timeline Budget Guide
Calculate the true cost of applying for a zoning variance, including permit fees, attorney costs, surveyor expenses, and potential delays. Determine if your property modification project is financially viable before starting the application process.
May 16, 2026Termite Treatment Cost Calculator: Prevention vs. Remediation Budget Guide
Calculate the true cost of termite prevention versus treatment, including inspection schedules, different treatment methods, and how termite damage impacts home value and insurance claims.
May 16, 2026Chimney Repair vs. Replacement Cost Calculator: When to Fix vs. Rebuild Your Fireplace System
Calculate the true cost of chimney repairs versus full replacement, including structural damage assessment, code compliance requirements, and impact on home value and insurance rates.
May 15, 2026Concrete Slab vs. Crawl Space vs. Basement Foundation Cost Calculator: Which Foundation Type Offers the Best Value
Compare upfront construction costs, long-term maintenance expenses, and resale value impact of different foundation types. Calculate which foundation option delivers the best ROI for your climate zone and soil conditions.
May 14, 2026Window Replacement Cost Calculator: Energy Efficiency vs. Home Value ROI Analysis
Calculate the true cost of replacing windows in your home, including energy savings, increased home value, and break-even timeline. Compare single-pane, double-pane, and triple-pane options with frame materials like vinyl, wood, and fiberglass to determine which investment delivers the best long-term returns.
May 13, 2026Mortgage Refinancing Break-Even Calculator: How Long Before You Recoup Closing Costs
Calculate exactly when refinancing pays off by factoring in closing costs, rate differences, and how long you plan to stay in your home. Our calculator shows month-by-month savings and total lifetime cost comparisons.
May 12, 2026