BuildMetricLab

Editorial & Methodology Policy

Last updated: 23 September 2026

BuildMetricLab exists to give homeowners, self-builders, DIYers and trade professionals accurate, no-nonsense quantity and cost estimates for common construction tasks, in US units or metric.

Principles

  1. Show your working. Every calculator shows the exact formula used. If you don't agree with the method, you can reproduce the calculation yourself.
  2. Cite the source. Where a calculator depends on industry benchmarks (for example bricks per square foot or metre, material densities, R- and U-values, or code references such as the IRC, IECC, Building Regulations, NCC or NBC), the reference is listed under Sources & Methodology on the tool page.
  3. Estimates, not promises. We include standard wastage percentages and mark clearly where site conditions invalidate a number. We do not claim exactness the numbers cannot deliver.
  4. No sponsored output. Affiliate partners have zero influence on calculator formulas, defaults or recommendations.
  5. Versioned math. When we update a formula, the tool's last_updated date changes.

Prices and time-sensitive data

Calculators are pure math on the values you enter. Prices, rates, taxes and fees are inputs you supply, not figures we maintain; where a calculator starts from a default price, it is a placeholder to replace with your own quote. We do not build tools whose answer depends on data that goes out of date, such as tax bands, government fee schedules or live market prices.

Units, codes and language

Each calculator works in US customary units, metric, or both with a switch. Where a calculator references a building code, we use the most recent published edition unless noted; local adoptions and amendments override the model code, and your local building authority is the source of truth. Tool pages are written in US English with US trade terms.

Contributor sign-off

All calculators are reviewed before publication for:

Corrections

Email contact@brightscalelabs.com or use the feedback button on any tool page. We aim to respond within five working days.