Break-Even Calculator
Calculate how many jobs you need to cover costs.
The Break-Even Calculator is a free tool designed for construction professionals and enthusiasts. Calculate how many jobs you need to cover costs. Instantly get the required materials broken down by purchase units, with an option to add a wastage allowance so you never run short on site.
Inputs
Result
Result
How to Use This Calculator
- Gather cost data: materials, labour, machinery and overheads.
- Enter the values in the corresponding fields.
- Enter the profit margin and overhead percentage if applicable.
- Review subtotals before accepting the final result.
- Click 'Calculate' to get cost breakdown, unit price and totals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Overheads typically range from 13–17 % of the direct cost. A profit margin of around 6 % is then added on top.
Selling price = Direct cost × (1 + Overhead%) × (1 + Profit%) × (1 + VAT%). The management calculators in this suite help you break down each item.
Output rate is the amount of work completed by one worker per day (e.g. m² of plastering, ml of pipe installed). This is key for calculating labour costs.