Derek Rose

Contributing Writer

Derek is a contributing writer with more than five years of professional experience covering topics that include interior design, hardware, home appliances, and more. He finds lawn mowing, weed whacking, and stacking firewood among the utmost therapeutic tasks.

LinkedIn
Derek Rose author photo
Derek Rose author photo

About

Derek is a writer and teacher living in Seattle, Washington. He has previously written home content for The Spruce, covering a range of topics that include: lawn care, leather restoration, tools and hardware, interior and exterior paints, tiny houses, and more. He also writes about kitchen appliances for The Spruce Eats. Much of his work has focused on buying guides to help homeowners purchase high-quality items that they can trust. He consistently tests items on his own before writing about them and interviews field experts for their insight.

One of Derek’s interests is DIY crafts and decor that add a personal touch to the home. He finds lawn mowing, weed whacking, and stacking firewood among the utmost therapeutic tasks. In the past, he's taken on various odd jobs that have expanded his knowledge of home services, from pool cleaning in high school to running social media for a window treatment company. When he’s not writing, you might find him tending a shared garden with his neighbors in Seattle.

Quick facts

Location
Seattle, WA
Education
Master of Fine Arts, Columbia University (2019) Bachelor of Arts, Marist College (2016)
Expertise
Sustainable living and DIY projects

Highlights

  • Researched and written about home services for over five years

  • Passion for DIY projects and interior design styles

  • Featured in The Spruce and The Spruce Eats

Published work

Articles
Reducing household waste is good for your wallet, your home, and the environment. Find out how to reduce household waste with a few easy habit changes.
This step-by-step guide explains how to install chimney flashing on a metal roof. This project is difficult and can be dangerous, so we recommend hiring a pro instead of DIY.
Whether you hire a pro or do it yourself, building a house has many challenges. Here are the biggest mistakes to avoid when building a new house.
Butcher block counters are a cost-effective and beautiful option. Learn the butcher block countertop pros and cons to see if they’re right for your kitchen remodel.
Granite countertops last 15 to 100 years based on usage and maintenance. Here’s how long your granite countertops will last and ways to increase their lifespan.
Laminate countertops are affordable and easy to maintain, but not as durable as other materials. Here’s a breakdown of laminate countertop pros and cons.
Knowing the warning signs of a damaged deck can help you catch issues early on. We’ve listed the most common signs your deck needs to be repaired or replaced.
Whether you’re installing a new fence or redoing an old one, it’s worth checking out different designs first. These wooden fence ideas will help you find the perfect fit for your yard.