Get matched with top contractors in Boonsboro, MD

Q: Is it better to frame with nails or screws?

• <div><p>When deciding whether to use nails or screws for framing, the specific needs of the project must be taken into account. Nails have long been the go-to option for framing due to their affordability, ease of installation, and ability to withstand shear forces. They are perfect for structural framing projects where fast assembly is essential. In contrast, screws offer exceptional holding power and are particularly useful in situations requiring increased strength and resistance to pull-out forces. For projects that prioritize accuracy and long-lasting quality, screws may be the preferred option, though nails remain a dependable and efficient choice.</p></div>

Q: How can I find ceiling joists using simple tools like a hammer or a nail?

• <div><p>Yes, you can find ceiling joists using simple tools if a stud finder isn't available.</p><p>Using a hammer requires patience and a keen ear. Gently tap the ceiling in a grid pattern, listening for sound changes. A hollow sound indicates space between joists, while a solid, dull thud suggests a joist. Mark the location with a pencil and confirm by tapping from different angles.</p><p>Alternatively, you can use a nail, but this method will leave small holes. You'll feel increased resistance when the nail hits a joist. Mark the spot and repeat the process every 16 or 24 inches to map the joist locations. This method is considered less reliable than using a stud finder.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take to install a porch column?

• <div><p>Installing an ornamental or <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/front-porch-decorating-ideas.htm">decorative porch</a> column takes around three to five hours. Structural columns take longer because your pro has to install a jack to hold up the roof while switching the column out. If there's any structural damage, it can add several days to the timeline to repair the damage. </p></div>

Q: What is included in framing a house?

• <div><p>Stick frames, metal frames, or prefabricated concrete frames are included in framing a house, along with creating the framework and space for windows, doors, and entryways. Other aspects of developing a home&mdash;like drywall, insulation, windows, doors, and more&mdash;are not included in the cost to frame a house.</p></div>

Q: Are ceiling joists load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they&rsquo;re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Contractor Service pros in Boonsboro, MD

*The Angi rating for Contractor Service companies in Boonsboro, MD is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Contractor Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Contractor Service companies in Boonsboro, MD is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Contractor Service needs.

Last update on August 01, 2023

Reviewed in August 2023
AdvancePro is the way to Go! We just completed our second round of sorely needed home maintenance projects with the assistance of AdvancePro, and we are absolutely thrilled with the end result. Weâ re an Autism family and our house was in great disrepair due to our many challenges. Thanks to...
Advancepro LLC
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Reviewed in February 2022
Last year we met and contracted A Cut Above Carpentry to do a full kitchen remodel. (Their estimate and timeline were very reasonable.) Because of delays in appliance deliveries (ordered by us not the contractor), we had to reschedule 3 times. A Cut Above was understanding and accommodating....
A Cut Above Carpentry
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Reviewed in January 2022
enjoyed working with them, did the work on time, on budget, I would definitely recommend to other friends who need carpentry work, definitely a good experience.
Local Handymen
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Reviewed in June 2019
Very expensive - performance requirements were verbal for weeding beds and trimming plants, trees, and rosebushes, but they never provided and we never received any written proposals and they started persistently asking for 1/3 of money on the first day and 1/3 on the second day and the final...
BBB Tree & Landscaping Service, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2016
They replaced our roof. They installed new siding. They did interior carpentry work. What an outstanding job. We were impressed with their customer service. Easy to work with and great technicians. Easy to contact. We happily s pent a good deal of money with them.
Wolfe Mottola & Sons Construction
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Reviewed in August 2016
These guys do it all..... Electrical,Plumbing, Carpentry. Handyman work.
ABC Services
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Reviewed in November 2013
I had ed come out to my house to repair a carpet that had been damaged by my dogs. He had contacted me just moments after speaking with a home advisor rep...and quoted me a price right then. When he came out he did a walk thru of my home and not only did he repair what I Iinitially needed but he...
Edward Gunneau
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Reviewed in August 2013
Blue Ridge Carpentry returned our telephone call promptly, set a date and time to visit our home, took measurements and viewed <br /> the locations where we want doors and framing removed and replaced with upgraded framing and upgraded doors. We have not yet received an estimate from Blue...
Blue Ridge Carpentry
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Reviewed in March 2012
This most recent job was, as I said, an emergency. It seems that these types of situations always happen at an inconvenient time. <br /> <br /> We immediately contacted A Cut Above Carpentry and told them of our problems. They scheduled a time to come out and inspect the problem (within 24...
A Cut Above Carpentry
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Find Contractors in Boonsboro

Conrad Homes, Inc.

4.9(

)

Serving Boonsboro, MD and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"I cannot give enough kudos to the Conrad Homes crew. Mike West, John and Brian did a thoroughly professional job finishing part of our unfinished basement. The work is well done and finished very nicely; they were efficient and friendly. Work included framing, drywall, trim, suspended ceiling and painting, plus installation of several electrical outlets and ceiling fixtures."

+79

Response time1 day

Response rate100%

3 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Boonsboro, MD and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a locally owned and operated company. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of home improvement services that are customized to each individual project. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work, as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

Response time1 day

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by66%of homeowners

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Kitchen and Bath Shop - Frederick

New to Angi

Serving Boonsboro, MD and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Warranties offered

Contact Kitchen and Bath Shop - Frederick today to make your home shine! We offer general, kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling services. Let us transform your space!

Bathroom remodeled with corner sink,standing shower, double sink, cabinets - Ashburn

Kitchen Remodeled With Double Sink + White Countertop & Wooden Cabinets - Ashburn

Basement renovated with attached bedroom,living room + closet space - Virginia

Bathroom remodeled with standing shower, double sink, sink & cabinets, Maryland

+112

Response time5 hrs

5 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Potomac Valley Contractors, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Boonsboro, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Work done promptly and if not certain a certain should go, asked me before taking."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Boonsboro, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Went wonderful with the contractor. They were great to work with and helped us navigate a very troublesome insurance company. They drove from northern Virginia to silver spring to do the work as well, not any easy task and a long commute in traffic. They were just great."

Drying bathroom wood subfloor from kitchen using indirect control heat, controlled by thermostat we set in place

+57

Recommended by88%of homeowners

Serving Boonsboro, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Kerwin is an absolute professional. Communicates on when arriving to complete a task, estimate timeline is always helpful. He's very responsive to my questions, and very knowledgeable. Very well rounded and an expert. He earned our trust to make the best decision for how some tasks needed to be done. His finished product is quality. Kerwin assembled our son's bed, a major closet, TV stands, an office desk, a book shelf and TV mounts. He handled all the fixing and repairs to our house to get it in proper shape to sell. We enjoy working with Kerwin, trust his expertise and work. He is our absolute go-to guy. We referred several family members to him and would 100% recommend him to anyone else."

+108

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Hugo Carpet Service LLC

4.9(

)

Serving Boonsboro, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Our experience with Hugo Carpet Services was fantastic. After speaking with David on the phone, they came out the next day to look at the work that needed to be done and give us an estimate. We received our estimate the next day and they started the work 2 days later. They're extremely professional and punctual. We are extremely happy with the work and will be hiring them for future projects."

+29

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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George's Painting Inc

4.4(

397

)

Serving Boonsboro, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"They were very punctual and very efficient. I was constantly checking on the job and all the workers were very professional, and helpful with any questions or doubts i had during the job. I would recommend this company to anyone who wants reasonable price with great quality!"

+22

Recommended by92%of homeowners

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Portillo's General Service

4.8(

)

Serving Boonsboro, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Rene Portillo and his crew do great work. I have used them for three project: new bathroom floors, painting of the downstairs of my home and remodeling of my basement. The work is excellent and the job is finished timely. I would highly recommend them for your repair and replacement needs."

+50

Recommended by97%of homeowners

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Honey Do Services LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Boonsboro, MD and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I had a long list of projects and Honey Do Services LLC were able to tackle them all; professionally and with excellent results."

+16

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 85

Unfinished Carpentry questions, answered by experts

When deciding whether to use nails or screws for framing, the specific needs of the project must be taken into account. Nails have long been the go-to option for framing due to their affordability, ease of installation, and ability to withstand shear forces. They are perfect for structural framing projects where fast assembly is essential. In contrast, screws offer exceptional holding power and are particularly useful in situations requiring increased strength and resistance to pull-out forces. For projects that prioritize accuracy and long-lasting quality, screws may be the preferred option, though nails remain a dependable and efficient choice.

Yes, you can find ceiling joists using simple tools if a stud finder isn't available.

Using a hammer requires patience and a keen ear. Gently tap the ceiling in a grid pattern, listening for sound changes. A hollow sound indicates space between joists, while a solid, dull thud suggests a joist. Mark the location with a pencil and confirm by tapping from different angles.

Alternatively, you can use a nail, but this method will leave small holes. You'll feel increased resistance when the nail hits a joist. Mark the spot and repeat the process every 16 or 24 inches to map the joist locations. This method is considered less reliable than using a stud finder.

Installing an ornamental or decorative porch column takes around three to five hours. Structural columns take longer because your pro has to install a jack to hold up the roof while switching the column out. If there's any structural damage, it can add several days to the timeline to repair the damage.

Stick frames, metal frames, or prefabricated concrete frames are included in framing a house, along with creating the framework and space for windows, doors, and entryways. Other aspects of developing a home—like drywall, insulation, windows, doors, and more—are not included in the cost to frame a house.

Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they’re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them.

The Boonsboro, MD homeowners’ guide to contractor services

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