"This was the very best contractor experience that I can ever remember. Mr. Smith (Bill) was on time for both estimate and work and took better than exceptional effort to leave the area even better than he found it. He was reasonable in pricing, installed per ADA standards, matched existing hardware and explained, from great experience, why we needed to modify the placement of the bars. BTW He was right! I would strongly recommend him for your future needs. You will not regret your selection. RDL"
"This is our fourth time using Diaz for our home renovations. He refinished and stained floors and painted several rooms. He also rebuilt an upstairs deck. In addition, he took care of about 10 other little things that needed fixing. As always, Diaz was the best contractor we’ve ever encountered. He came right out for a free estimate. He gave us constructive advice on the proposed work. His crew got started right away - they were reliable, on time, courteous, and cleaned up impeccably each day. Diaz stuck to his estimate. In addition to all these positive traits, one of the best things is that Diaz and his team can literally take care of anything. You will not have to rely on a subcontractor or having to call somebody else - he does painting, flooring, kitchens, doors/windows, drywall work, tiling, bathrooms, etc. He even has his own tree guy and electrician for when those things come up. He doesn’t just do everything, but everything is done to perfection. Highly recommended!"
"Mr. Gámez had good suggestions on how to meet our design goals in these spaces. The work was done very professionally and looks fantastic. The work crews were skilled and conscientious and were a pleasure to work with. Workers were on site 6 days a week during the work period and the work was completed in only 5 1/2 weeks. We had none of the usual contractor horror stories, only a very smooth experience. We highly recommend Omar’s for painting and remodeling work of any kind."
"Overall, the quality of work was very good. The bathrooms look AMAZING! They also finished the project within the anticipated timeline, which was the major reason we chose Willis for this project. They did two bathrooms faster than some companies could promise one (4 weeks to fully functional - a few details took longer to complete due to backordered parts). We had some communication and punctuality issues with the project manager, and I felt like I had to manage him and keep tabs on everything that was happening, which was frustrating at times. However, whenever I would discover something had been done wrong, they'd say, "okay, we'll fix it" and did so without complaint, even if it took multiple attempts to get it right. And most important, they never tried to stick us with the bill if it was their mistake. One thing to be aware of is that their quotes are for labor only. The customer is responsible for purchasing the big items (tile, vanity, tub, etc. - often with contractor discounts), and Willis buys the basic construction materials as they're needed (cement board, PVC pipe, paint, adhesives, etc.), which the customer reimburses at cost. So be sure to factor in the materials when comparing with other contractors that include those things in their bids. We reimbursed Willis almost exactly $2,000 for materials for the two bathrooms."
"This is the company to pick. This is the third kitchen renovation I have done so I have had some experience with contractors. By far this is the easiest and most professional group in the area. Despite COVID, this project went extremely well from start to finish. Our designer Calvin was flexible and easy to work with from day one. I had an idea what I wanted, and he took my ideas and made them better. I was able to pick and add what I wanted, like adding in the backsplash and sink I found online. He was so easy and down to earth. They didn’t nickel and dime me- the price was the price. Jason managed the work onsite with Elvis and the team. They were always on time and extremely professional. Jason was a perfectionist and checked all the work, his standards were higher than mine, always making sure everything was excellent quality. Jason would call me EVERY afternoon and check in to see how the work was going. I can’t say enough good things about this company. They are responsive and actually care about the quality of their work. They managed all the work and workers. Added plus was they were very flexible and respectful with the fact we had kids and were working at home during the renovation and COVID (and had a dog). I found this company by researching online reviews. So glad I did my research because I love these people!!"
"After consulting with several companies, I decided to hire ESM Construction LLC for the remodeling of my one-bedroom condo. Their pricing was competitive, and Edgar displayed a wealth of knowledge. He was also exceptionally responsive, addressing all my questions promptly. The crew arrived on schedule, and they were both friendly and professional. They completely transformed the condo, installing brand new flooring, ceilings, paint, a bathroom, kitchen, and appliances. I never felt rushed, and every aspect of the project was completed in a timely manner. Edgar and his team were attentive and patient, never once saying, "No, we won't do that!" Finding honest and reliable contractors can be challenging these days. We interviewed several contractors with five-star ratings, but many seemed overpriced, like quoting $5K for cabinets that only cost $3K depending on kitchen size. Some of the five-star contractors even came off as somewhat arrogant due to their reviews, which raised concerns about potential issues. If you spot even one negative review, take it seriously; we’ve paid a steep price for ignoring such warnings in the past. Edgar's team even rectified mistakes made by previous contractors. From the moment we spoke with Edgar, we recognized his down-to-earth demeanor and extensive expertise in his field. We are thoroughly satisfied with our decision to go with ESM Construction LLC and wholeheartedly recommend this company."
"I was very pleased with the results of Fred Contractor LLC work. The team was always on time and completed the job as it was estimated. The price was very competitive. Fred was easy to communicate with and everything was accomplished as it was agreed on in the contract. I would highly recommend Fred Contractor LLC for your home improvement jobs. I am also planning on hiring him for more projects in the house."
"I recently had work done by the Krause Crew & I was just beyond impressed and I extremely respect the way they conduct business; from start to finish. The entire team is just Ultra Responsive; from the owner, to the staff, to dealing with the front office; it just made the whole process flawless! Impeccable Work Ethic by the Staff. Execution done RIGHT…With Very Fair Pricing and Full Transparency. Honestly all I ever want in a project! If you’re looking for someone to do any type of construction work; I highly encourage to throw them into the ring while you’re getting quotes. Besides the finish product being perfect, they do it with great customer service! Brian Gavin"
"The contractor is very knowledgeable and professional. The Dreamville team went above and beyond to make sure I was happy with the remodel. I'm very pleased with my new kitchen."
"Great! The crew was professional and friendly. Showed up on time and worked hard. This is the second time I've used JW. They're my go to contractor now."
Unfinished Carpentry questions, answered by experts
Duration varies by project size, but average-sized homes typically take a weeks.
The cost to install a bow window can range from $1,500 to $15,000, with a national average of $3,900. The total price includes materials, which can cost between $1,200 and over $14,000, and labor, which typically adds $300 to $1,900. Several factors influence the final cost, including the window's size and frame material. For example, vinyl frames are the most budget-friendly option, while wood frames are more expensive. Custom features or energy-efficient upgrades will also increase the price. For comparison, a bay window installation typically costs between $1,000 and $7,000.
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.
While some highly experienced homeowners can frame a house independently, it is not advisable. You will need ample carpentry experience, a team of helpers, and professionals to sign off on your work to meet local building codes. For the safest outcome, we recommend buying or building a house with the guidance of professionals.
Baseboards don’t have to be nailed into studs. However, nailing them into studs adds to their stability. When studs aren’t available, you can secure them with drywall nails directly into the drywall and adhesive. Always aim to nail into studs, especially in high-traffic or impact-prone areas.
The Glen Echo, MD homeowners’ guide to contractor services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Find out the average basement remodel cost in Washington, DC. Learn what you can expect to pay for local basement finishing and plan your budget today.
When you’re tackling a project or hiring a contractor, it’s helpful to know key carpentry terms. From end grain to dovetail joints, here’s a complete list.
House framing is one of the first parts of building a home. To do this, you’ll want to hire a rough or unfinished carpenter. Using this guide, you’ll know what questions to ask and where to look for your house framing contractor.
