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TRUSTED BY ESSEX, MD HOMEOWNERS

  • Average homeowner rating star icon4.4
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon60
    Verified contractor services reviews

Find Contractors in Essex

Avatar for JW Home Improvement

JW Home Improvement

4.39(
5,503
)
Approved Pro

JW Home Improvement

4.39(
5,503
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
1781 local quotes requested
24 years of experience

JWHI provides world-class customer service with consistent and superior workmanship. We strive to be the trusted market leader in the home improvement industry. Proudly, we are Super Service Award Winner for over a decade, and we plan to keep that streak going! Contact us today to discuss your next handyman or remodeling project. Our mission is to provide you with a happy home improvement experience!

"Made appointment for them to come over for an estimate (which they charge for) between 9-12 today. They are a no show. I wasted the whole morning on them. DO NOT recommend."

Jeff H on October 2025

JWHI provides world-class customer service with consistent and superior workmanship. We strive to be the trusted market leader in the home improvement industry. Proudly, we are Super Service Award Winner for over a decade, and we plan to keep that streak going! Contact us today to discuss your next handyman or remodeling project. Our mission is to provide you with a happy home improvement experience!

"Made appointment for them to come over for an estimate (which they charge for) between 9-12 today. They are a no show. I wasted the whole morning on them. DO NOT recommend."

Jeff H on October 2025


SMITHWRIGHT HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES, LLC

4.91(
103
)
Approved Pro

SMITHWRIGHT HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES, LLC

4.91(
103
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 99% of Angi customers
Recommended by 99% of HomeAdvisor customers
110 local quotes requested

Smithwright Home Improvement is a general contracting company providing a broad range of home improvement and home repair services in the Suburban Maryland area. I am a company of one and use subcontractors only when absolutely necessary. 99% of the work I take on is performed by me. Smithwright Home Improvement is licensed with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission since 2004 under license# 89597. I've done mostly flat-fee work under contract with the home owner. Small projects, or handyman related work, bills out at $80/hour with a 3 hour minimum. Angie's List customers receive a 10% discount off labor charges that invoice over $500.00. Discounts do not apply to materials cost which are in addition to labor charges. I do not add any additional costs to materials. You pay what I pay. My business, up to now, has grown strictly through referrals from satisfied customers. In the 20 years since I started this business, I have served hundreds of home owners in this area doing everything from simple drywall work to building large room additions and decks. I pride myself in delivering results that far exceed my customer's expectations. (Please note, the nature of my work can make it quite difficult to take phone calls during the day. The last thing I want is to offend anyone by not picking up or not returning phone calls. Please contact me via text at 410-707-5542 or email at [email protected] as well and I will try to respond to you within 24 to 36 hours. Thank you!).

"Work was very thorough, professional, with great attention to detail. The final product exceeded my expectations."

Stephen H on October 2025

Smithwright Home Improvement is a general contracting company providing a broad range of home improvement and home repair services in the Suburban Maryland area. I am a company of one and use subcontractors only when absolutely necessary. 99% of the work I take on is performed by me. Smithwright Home Improvement is licensed with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission since 2004 under license# 89597. I've done mostly flat-fee work under contract with the home owner. Small projects, or handyman related work, bills out at $80/hour with a 3 hour minimum. Angie's List customers receive a 10% discount off labor charges that invoice over $500.00. Discounts do not apply to materials cost which are in addition to labor charges. I do not add any additional costs to materials. You pay what I pay. My business, up to now, has grown strictly through referrals from satisfied customers. In the 20 years since I started this business, I have served hundreds of home owners in this area doing everything from simple drywall work to building large room additions and decks. I pride myself in delivering results that far exceed my customer's expectations. (Please note, the nature of my work can make it quite difficult to take phone calls during the day. The last thing I want is to offend anyone by not picking up or not returning phone calls. Please contact me via text at 410-707-5542 or email at [email protected] as well and I will try to respond to you within 24 to 36 hours. Thank you!).

"Work was very thorough, professional, with great attention to detail. The final product exceeded my expectations."

Stephen H on October 2025


Avatar for JD Michael Construction Inc

JD Michael Construction Inc

4.91(
57
)
Approved Pro

JD Michael Construction Inc

4.91(
57
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 98% of Angi customers
Recommended by 98% of HomeAdvisor customers
20 local quotes requested

Since 1989, JD Michael Construction has provided professional contracting experience, and is committed to exceeding your expectations. We provide full-service Remodeling and Contracting Services, specializing in Kitchen Renovations. We will work with you directly to understand your vision and priorities, and provide you with a hassle-free experience that will increase the value and enjoyment of your home. We provide only the highest quality craftsmanship and materials at honest prices. With customizable services to match your unique style and needs, we are your one-stop-shop for any renovation project you have in mind. We also specialize in Bathroom and Basement Renovations, as well as most Home Improvement projects such as Carpentry, Flooring, Concrete, Driveways, Porches, Painting, and more! Give us a call today for a phone consultation, and to schedule your estimate. We look forward to speaking with you about your ideas and providing the solutions you need!

"Outstanding workmanship and professionalism! Joe and his crew were meticulous in the work they did and in keeping the area neat and organized. I was always kept up to date on progress and always informed on what to expect with scheduled deliveries. Joe and his crew were always on time and the attention to detail was just excellent. Highly recommend!!!"

Mary B on March 2025

Since 1989, JD Michael Construction has provided professional contracting experience, and is committed to exceeding your expectations. We provide full-service Remodeling and Contracting Services, specializing in Kitchen Renovations. We will work with you directly to understand your vision and priorities, and provide you with a hassle-free experience that will increase the value and enjoyment of your home. We provide only the highest quality craftsmanship and materials at honest prices. With customizable services to match your unique style and needs, we are your one-stop-shop for any renovation project you have in mind. We also specialize in Bathroom and Basement Renovations, as well as most Home Improvement projects such as Carpentry, Flooring, Concrete, Driveways, Porches, Painting, and more! Give us a call today for a phone consultation, and to schedule your estimate. We look forward to speaking with you about your ideas and providing the solutions you need!

"Outstanding workmanship and professionalism! Joe and his crew were meticulous in the work they did and in keeping the area neat and organized. I was always kept up to date on progress and always informed on what to expect with scheduled deliveries. Joe and his crew were always on time and the attention to detail was just excellent. Highly recommend!!!"

Mary B on March 2025


Avatar for 4 Seasons Construction

4 Seasons Construction

5.00(
9
)
Approved Pro

4 Seasons Construction

5.00(
9
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
25 local quotes requested

We specialize in kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, interior and exterior painting, finishing basements, and decks. 4 seasons Construction takes pride in making sure the customer is always happy and getting the job done efficiently, clean and quickly as possible. We been doing this for 15 years and love what we do.

"Gus Moniodis of 4 Seasons Construction, LLC did a fantastic job on remodeling my kitchen. My house was built in the early 70’s and the kitchen needed to be gone. He did a fantastic job on clearing everything out and even worked around my appliances that I was keeping. He was very helpful on suggesting were I could purchase my cabinets and countertop at reasonable prices. Gus also did whatever I asked and even gave suggestions on some things because this was my first venture on doing anything like this. He was very professional and left my house clean, once he was finished for the day. Always on time and communicating which is very important to me. I know who I’ll be calling on my next project!!"

Gal S on January 2022

We specialize in kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, interior and exterior painting, finishing basements, and decks. 4 seasons Construction takes pride in making sure the customer is always happy and getting the job done efficiently, clean and quickly as possible. We been doing this for 15 years and love what we do.

"Gus Moniodis of 4 Seasons Construction, LLC did a fantastic job on remodeling my kitchen. My house was built in the early 70’s and the kitchen needed to be gone. He did a fantastic job on clearing everything out and even worked around my appliances that I was keeping. He was very helpful on suggesting were I could purchase my cabinets and countertop at reasonable prices. Gus also did whatever I asked and even gave suggestions on some things because this was my first venture on doing anything like this. He was very professional and left my house clean, once he was finished for the day. Always on time and communicating which is very important to me. I know who I’ll be calling on my next project!!"

Gal S on January 2022


"Carlos and his crew do great work. They are clean and efficient. I have used them a few times and would use them again."

Vikki D on July 2023

We are not just a remodeling or Home Improvement company. We focus on keeping our clients satisfied and happy. quality is our priority.

"Carlos and his crew do great work. They are clean and efficient. I have used them a few times and would use them again."

Vikki D on July 2023


Avatar for GLR Home Improvement

GLR Home Improvement

4.95(
19
)
Approved Pro

GLR Home Improvement

4.95(
19
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
136 local quotes requested

We have over 30 years experience! Our company is based on the belief that our customers' needs are of the utmost importance. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers and referrals. We would welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best service in the industry.

"Gary's work is excellent and both jobs were completed fast. I am hiring him again for another project."

Lee W on October 2025

We have over 30 years experience! Our company is based on the belief that our customers' needs are of the utmost importance. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers and referrals. We would welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best service in the industry.

"Gary's work is excellent and both jobs were completed fast. I am hiring him again for another project."

Lee W on October 2025


Avatar for River View

River View

4.64(
14
)
Approved Pro

River View

4.64(
14
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quality work
230 local quotes requested
1 years of experience

At River View Construction, we pride ourselves on our exceptional renovations, which are characterized by a comprehensive range of services, a skilled team, and personalized solutions tailored to your unique needs. We are dedicated to providing quality assurance, proactive communication, and meticulous attention to detail, all while ensuring that your project is completed on time. Driven by our commitment to customer satisfaction, we invite you to let us turn your vision into reality. Request a quote today and experience the unmatched River View difference!

"We write this review as a sigh of relief now that our renovation project with River View is finally complete. The quality of the final work is excellent, and the construction crew, architect, and county inspector were all great to work with. The original crew we worked with, led by Edwin, were so hardworking, friendly, thorough, and fast. That's what really pushed us from 2 to 3 stars. However, the process getting here was frustrating and unnecessarily chaotic. Timeline & Communication Issues: Initial promise: We were clear that the renovation had to allow us to live in our home during construction and be completed before Christmas. Early communication: Our original project manager, Cris, was personable, and early communication seemed fine, if a bit informal and sometimes inappropriately personal. Major miscommunication: Near the holidays, we discovered that the plans submitted included cutting into the roof — something we explicitly said we didn’t want. This contradicted verbal assurances and caused major last-minute changes. Project Management Failures: Poor planning and oversight: Cris and the architect’s plan didn’t align with the construction work. We had to get involved directly with the county to fix errors. Paperwork errors: Incorrect submissions to the county added delays and confusion, which we had to monitor ourselves. Last-minute scramble: We were cleaning up dust on Christmas Eve due to these planning failures. Personnel Turnover & Lack of Handoff: Cris leaves the company: No proper handover to James, the new PM, who was unfamiliar with our project. Crew replaced: The original crew, who were great, were gone; new crew had no context or direction. James leaves: Another handoff with no context — the third PM had no idea about our project or its outstanding items. Escalation mishandled: When we raised our concerns with Kyle, the CEO, the response felt dismissive, with no accountability for the previous missteps. In summary, it's a beautiful end result... but we’re glad it’s over. The process left us frustrated, confused, and frankly, exhausted."

Brian M on April 2025

At River View Construction, we pride ourselves on our exceptional renovations, which are characterized by a comprehensive range of services, a skilled team, and personalized solutions tailored to your unique needs. We are dedicated to providing quality assurance, proactive communication, and meticulous attention to detail, all while ensuring that your project is completed on time. Driven by our commitment to customer satisfaction, we invite you to let us turn your vision into reality. Request a quote today and experience the unmatched River View difference!

"We write this review as a sigh of relief now that our renovation project with River View is finally complete. The quality of the final work is excellent, and the construction crew, architect, and county inspector were all great to work with. The original crew we worked with, led by Edwin, were so hardworking, friendly, thorough, and fast. That's what really pushed us from 2 to 3 stars. However, the process getting here was frustrating and unnecessarily chaotic. Timeline & Communication Issues: Initial promise: We were clear that the renovation had to allow us to live in our home during construction and be completed before Christmas. Early communication: Our original project manager, Cris, was personable, and early communication seemed fine, if a bit informal and sometimes inappropriately personal. Major miscommunication: Near the holidays, we discovered that the plans submitted included cutting into the roof — something we explicitly said we didn’t want. This contradicted verbal assurances and caused major last-minute changes. Project Management Failures: Poor planning and oversight: Cris and the architect’s plan didn’t align with the construction work. We had to get involved directly with the county to fix errors. Paperwork errors: Incorrect submissions to the county added delays and confusion, which we had to monitor ourselves. Last-minute scramble: We were cleaning up dust on Christmas Eve due to these planning failures. Personnel Turnover & Lack of Handoff: Cris leaves the company: No proper handover to James, the new PM, who was unfamiliar with our project. Crew replaced: The original crew, who were great, were gone; new crew had no context or direction. James leaves: Another handoff with no context — the third PM had no idea about our project or its outstanding items. Escalation mishandled: When we raised our concerns with Kyle, the CEO, the response felt dismissive, with no accountability for the previous missteps. In summary, it's a beautiful end result... but we’re glad it’s over. The process left us frustrated, confused, and frankly, exhausted."

Brian M on April 2025


Avatar for CHEVY CHASE REMODELING

CHEVY CHASE REMODELING

4.48(
202
)
Approved Pro

CHEVY CHASE REMODELING

4.48(
202
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Terrific value
124 local quotes requested
25 years of experience

26 employees. Cost is determined by the job. Travel charges may apply. Service fee applies. Extra charge for after-hours service. License #: 95598. Additional contact: jennifer depollar. Additional phone #: (240)535-6296. Additional service areas: calvert county & district of columbia. Additional services offered: siding, roofing, windows, kitchens, baths, flooring,painting. We work under the rowan group llc's licensing in Virginia and D.C.

"I wish I could give ten stars. Came home from Christmas to a literal waterfall in my house. Steven and his crew were absolutely the best team I could have asked for. Understanding, communicative, empathetic and on top of all that, the quality of their work is EXCELLENT. My entire first floor was taken down to studs and rebuilt and it's better than it was before the disaster."

Jen K on October 2025

26 employees. Cost is determined by the job. Travel charges may apply. Service fee applies. Extra charge for after-hours service. License #: 95598. Additional contact: jennifer depollar. Additional phone #: (240)535-6296. Additional service areas: calvert county & district of columbia. Additional services offered: siding, roofing, windows, kitchens, baths, flooring,painting. We work under the rowan group llc's licensing in Virginia and D.C.

"I wish I could give ten stars. Came home from Christmas to a literal waterfall in my house. Steven and his crew were absolutely the best team I could have asked for. Understanding, communicative, empathetic and on top of all that, the quality of their work is EXCELLENT. My entire first floor was taken down to studs and rebuilt and it's better than it was before the disaster."

Jen K on October 2025


Avatar for ARC Remodeling and Renovation

ARC Remodeling and Renovation

5.00(
5
)
Approved Pro

ARC Remodeling and Renovation

5.00(
5
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
227 local quotes requested

ARC Construction and Renovation, located in Essex, MD, offers professional remodeling services for residential and commercial properties. They specialize in transforming spaces with the highest quality materials and craftsmanship, bringing clients' visions to life. With their commitment to innovation and sustainability, ARC Construction and Renovation creates extraordinary spaces that exceed expectations. They prioritize customer satisfaction and ensure each project reflects their clients' unique requirements.

"Estimate visit went really well. Jose was on time and very professional. Would recommend to another without hesitation 💯💯😁😁"

Miles J on December 2024

ARC Construction and Renovation, located in Essex, MD, offers professional remodeling services for residential and commercial properties. They specialize in transforming spaces with the highest quality materials and craftsmanship, bringing clients' visions to life. With their commitment to innovation and sustainability, ARC Construction and Renovation creates extraordinary spaces that exceed expectations. They prioritize customer satisfaction and ensure each project reflects their clients' unique requirements.

"Estimate visit went really well. Jose was on time and very professional. Would recommend to another without hesitation 💯💯😁😁"

Miles J on December 2024


Avatar for All American Builders LLC

All American Builders LLC

5.00(
1
)
Approved Pro

All American Builders LLC

5.00(
1
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
17 local quotes requested

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we have seen it all. We are a family veterans and law enforcement. A family dedicated to serving our country as well as our customers. We are here to help you with all your remodeling needs and build your dream project.

"Great experience! As with anything you don’t understand, I was nervous. I was pleasantly surprised as every aspect of the job was thoroughly explained and all my fears were overcome. They are friendly, professional, thorough and efficient. I would highly recommend All American Builders!!!"

MARCIA B on December 2024

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we have seen it all. We are a family veterans and law enforcement. A family dedicated to serving our country as well as our customers. We are here to help you with all your remodeling needs and build your dream project.

"Great experience! As with anything you don’t understand, I was nervous. I was pleasantly surprised as every aspect of the job was thoroughly explained and all my fears were overcome. They are friendly, professional, thorough and efficient. I would highly recommend All American Builders!!!"

MARCIA B on December 2024

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Unfinished Carpentry questions, answered by experts

Joists do distribute their load to beams, but they don’t sit on top of the beams. Instead, home builders nail or screw the joists directly to the beams such that the end of the joist butts up against the edge of the beam. Beams can sit on other beams for support, but you’ll never see a joist sitting on top of a beam or another joist.

Your local building code will list all the framing requirements for whatever type of structure you're building. Most exterior walls require spacing of 16 inches on-center, while many non-load-bearing interior walls only require 24 inches of spacing. However, there are also varying requirements depending on your construction material, so checking your municipality's rules is essential.

Accurate measurements, sturdy materials, and seamless integration with other structures.

Regular sealing, repainting, and checking for wood rot or pest infestations help maintain longevity.

There are a few easy ways to locate a wall stud without a stud finder. First, try knocking on the wall with your knuckles. Most parts of the wall will sound hollow, but when you tap over a stud, it will sound more solid. Alternatively, since studs are spaced 16 or 24 inches apart, you can measure those distances from a corner of the room, which will always have a stud.

The Essex, MD homeowners’ guide to contractor services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.