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Avatar for M Phippin Contracting Inc.

M Phippin Contracting Inc.

4.95(
22
)
Approved Pro

M Phippin Contracting Inc.

4.95(
22
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
2012 years of experience

M. Phippin Contracting is proud to be a family owned and operated Construction Company! With 25 years of experience in the industry as a full service contractor who believes in earning trust and establishing relationships with our customers. We will never cut corners or use inferior products! M. Phippin Contracting is proud to collaborate with selected contractors on the Eastern Shore to ensure the best project outcomes! We treat our customers the way we would like to be treated, with honesty and respect…. M. Phippin Contracting just doesn’t do business any other way!

"Everything went well. Mike did a fantastic job communicating every step of the way. Easy to work with and showed up on time as promised."

Mike P on August 2023

M. Phippin Contracting is proud to be a family owned and operated Construction Company! With 25 years of experience in the industry as a full service contractor who believes in earning trust and establishing relationships with our customers. We will never cut corners or use inferior products! M. Phippin Contracting is proud to collaborate with selected contractors on the Eastern Shore to ensure the best project outcomes! We treat our customers the way we would like to be treated, with honesty and respect…. M. Phippin Contracting just doesn’t do business any other way!

"Everything went well. Mike did a fantastic job communicating every step of the way. Easy to work with and showed up on time as promised."

Mike P on August 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
2010 years of experience

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


"Crew were professional and got the job fine on schedule. Took direction and changed in stride. Finish work good but not perfect."

paul S on January 2024

We are a full service remodeling contractor for over 40 years. We are fully Licensed Bonded and Insured

"Crew were professional and got the job fine on schedule. Took direction and changed in stride. Finish work good but not perfect."

paul S on January 2024


Vasco Property Services, LLC

4.68(
32
)
Approved Pro

Vasco Property Services, LLC

4.68(
32
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers
1990 years of experience

Vasco Property Services, LLC, has the experience and knowledge necessary to make sure that your project is completed on time with quality service and workmanship. We strive to complete each project on time and at, or under budget. Our many years of remodeling experience have given us the knowledge and skills needed to accomplish this from day one and throughout the duration of the project. Your satisfaction is important to us. Let us show you the difference true professionalism can mean to you. We are located in Ocean City, Maryland. Thank you.

"I called looking for a way to renovate my existing space as currently my pantry is useless. Susan answers the phone courteously, respectfully, and empathized with my situation, truthfully the whole team did. They understood its difficult to live in an unfunctional space and helped me make it functional."

Ric M on October 2025

Vasco Property Services, LLC, has the experience and knowledge necessary to make sure that your project is completed on time with quality service and workmanship. We strive to complete each project on time and at, or under budget. Our many years of remodeling experience have given us the knowledge and skills needed to accomplish this from day one and throughout the duration of the project. Your satisfaction is important to us. Let us show you the difference true professionalism can mean to you. We are located in Ocean City, Maryland. Thank you.

"I called looking for a way to renovate my existing space as currently my pantry is useless. Susan answers the phone courteously, respectfully, and empathized with my situation, truthfully the whole team did. They understood its difficult to live in an unfunctional space and helped me make it functional."

Ric M on October 2025


Avatar for Louver Shop of Maryland

Louver Shop of Maryland

5.00(
19
)

Louver Shop of Maryland

5.00(
19
)
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Your Vision. Our Expertise. It's How Beautiful Homes Happen. We're America's preferred window treatment source for a reason (lots of reasons, really). We make it easy to bring your windows to life with our custom shutters, blinds and shades. With prices that are hard to resist. Our sales consultants live where you do. They're not only a text away, they're knowledgeable about what works best where you live. Best of all, we've made the whole process of buying and installing window treatments pain-free. Dare we say, enjoyable? We don’t say we’re the best—our customers do. A nationwide survey showed Louver Shop outranks other manufacturers and stores in key categories such as: #1 in Product Selection #1 in Customer Support #1 in Product Quality #1 in Product Durability #1 in Product Warranties and more! We’ll bring the window treatment showroom to you, take measurements and provide you with our everything’s-included Louver Shop Complete Comfort Pricing—all for free! Get started by messaging us today.

"What a great experience. Ronnie helped us with the measurements and came back to install. Delivery was 2 weeks early (which is unheard of during COVID) and the installation was terrific. Shutters look fabulous and we couldn’t be more pleased. Quality is great, pricing competitive and service without flaw. The perfect combination."

Karen M on March 2021

Your Vision. Our Expertise. It's How Beautiful Homes Happen. We're America's preferred window treatment source for a reason (lots of reasons, really). We make it easy to bring your windows to life with our custom shutters, blinds and shades. With prices that are hard to resist. Our sales consultants live where you do. They're not only a text away, they're knowledgeable about what works best where you live. Best of all, we've made the whole process of buying and installing window treatments pain-free. Dare we say, enjoyable? We don’t say we’re the best—our customers do. A nationwide survey showed Louver Shop outranks other manufacturers and stores in key categories such as: #1 in Product Selection #1 in Customer Support #1 in Product Quality #1 in Product Durability #1 in Product Warranties and more! We’ll bring the window treatment showroom to you, take measurements and provide you with our everything’s-included Louver Shop Complete Comfort Pricing—all for free! Get started by messaging us today.

"What a great experience. Ronnie helped us with the measurements and came back to install. Delivery was 2 weeks early (which is unheard of during COVID) and the installation was terrific. Shutters look fabulous and we couldn’t be more pleased. Quality is great, pricing competitive and service without flaw. The perfect combination."

Karen M on March 2021


Avatar for Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements, Inc

Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements, Inc

5.00(
48
)

Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements, Inc

5.00(
48
)
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements, Inc. has been in business for over thirty-five years with Larry Comer providing services to Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset and Dorchester counties in Maryland and Sussex County in Delaware for almost 15 years and Long Island, NY for over 20 years. Larry Comer, is a hands-on contractor; with vast experience and knowledge in remodeling and fine home building. "Every home I improve, I do with the same care as I would do for my family and friends." Our goal is to provide our clients with high quality craftsmanship, materials and the best customer service with fair prices. Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements knows the value a good contractor brings to a project which is why your complete satisfaction is our guarantee. Our good standing with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission and Maryland Home Builders and our online reviews speak for themselves. Throughout the years of renovating our clients' homes and businesses we have won their trust. Give us a chance to earn yours.

"All work done in a clean professional manner"

Bill L on March 2021

Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements, Inc. has been in business for over thirty-five years with Larry Comer providing services to Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset and Dorchester counties in Maryland and Sussex County in Delaware for almost 15 years and Long Island, NY for over 20 years. Larry Comer, is a hands-on contractor; with vast experience and knowledge in remodeling and fine home building. "Every home I improve, I do with the same care as I would do for my family and friends." Our goal is to provide our clients with high quality craftsmanship, materials and the best customer service with fair prices. Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements knows the value a good contractor brings to a project which is why your complete satisfaction is our guarantee. Our good standing with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission and Maryland Home Builders and our online reviews speak for themselves. Throughout the years of renovating our clients' homes and businesses we have won their trust. Give us a chance to earn yours.

"All work done in a clean professional manner"

Bill L on March 2021


Wantz Construction Co Inc

4.93(
14
)

Wantz Construction Co Inc

4.93(
14
)
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Since 1947, Wantz Construction Company Inc. has been providing the finest general contractor services in the Baltimore, MD area. We offer an all-in-one service and work with you throughout the entire process in planning and executing your home addition. We also specialize in creating the perfect kitchen or bathroom for your family’s specific needs. So no matter what your needs are, we can help you with your new project from design to construction. To help you maximize your living space, we also provide basement remodeling services and deck construction. Call us today for more information. We are a family owned and operated business that takes pride in providing the highest quality service at prices you can afford. Our friendly and professional staff is here to answer any questions you may have about our company or our services.We are fully licensed, bonded and insured to handle any sized commercial or residential job. Our Home Remodeling Services Include: Home additions, Car garage construction, Screen room construction, Kitchen remodeling, Bathroom remodeling, Basement remodeling, Tile flooring, Marble countertops, Custom built showers, Dual vanity sinks, Deck construction Our Roofing and Siding Services Include: Roof repairs, New roof installation, Flat roofs, Rubber roofs, Aluminum siding, Vinyl siding, Cedar siding, HardiePlank® lap siding, Window and door replacement. Our Fire and Water Damage Restoration Services Include: Fire, smoke, and soot, Carpet removal and replacement, Ceiling, walls, and floor repairs. LICENSED, INSURED AND BONDED – YES!!!

Since 1947, Wantz Construction Company Inc. has been providing the finest general contractor services in the Baltimore, MD area. We offer an all-in-one service and work with you throughout the entire process in planning and executing your home addition. We also specialize in creating the perfect kitchen or bathroom for your family’s specific needs. So no matter what your needs are, we can help you with your new project from design to construction. To help you maximize your living space, we also provide basement remodeling services and deck construction. Call us today for more information. We are a family owned and operated business that takes pride in providing the highest quality service at prices you can afford. Our friendly and professional staff is here to answer any questions you may have about our company or our services.We are fully licensed, bonded and insured to handle any sized commercial or residential job. Our Home Remodeling Services Include: Home additions, Car garage construction, Screen room construction, Kitchen remodeling, Bathroom remodeling, Basement remodeling, Tile flooring, Marble countertops, Custom built showers, Dual vanity sinks, Deck construction Our Roofing and Siding Services Include: Roof repairs, New roof installation, Flat roofs, Rubber roofs, Aluminum siding, Vinyl siding, Cedar siding, HardiePlank® lap siding, Window and door replacement. Our Fire and Water Damage Restoration Services Include: Fire, smoke, and soot, Carpet removal and replacement, Ceiling, walls, and floor repairs. LICENSED, INSURED AND BONDED – YES!!!


Avatar for H R Stairs & Rails

H R Stairs & Rails

4.94(
34
)

H R Stairs & Rails

4.94(
34
)
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers

Over the past 30 years, H R Stairs & Rails has completed more than two thousand stair and railing projects under the direction of master craftsman Hooshang Rashidi. We take pride in our work and strive to exceed our client's expectations. We are "Staircase and Railing Builders". Our craftsmanship & attention to detail positively impacts the delivery of H R Stairs & Rails finished products, from complex staircase designs to small stair repair and baluster replacement. By concentrating all our efforts on staircases and railings in the Washington DC Metropolitan area we are able to provide our clients with specialized expertise, allowing us to provide superior workmanship and service. We look forward to being your staircase contractor. Cost is determined by the job.

"I can only reiterate the many positive Angi reviews discussing the high standard of work produced by Mr. Rashidi and his assistant. Mr. Rashidi was able to begin work one week after providing an estimate and completed the job in four days after working steadily throughout that time. We are more than satisfied with the result and would highly recommend this company. Real craftsmanship at a reasonable price."

Ellen L on May 2022

Over the past 30 years, H R Stairs & Rails has completed more than two thousand stair and railing projects under the direction of master craftsman Hooshang Rashidi. We take pride in our work and strive to exceed our client's expectations. We are "Staircase and Railing Builders". Our craftsmanship & attention to detail positively impacts the delivery of H R Stairs & Rails finished products, from complex staircase designs to small stair repair and baluster replacement. By concentrating all our efforts on staircases and railings in the Washington DC Metropolitan area we are able to provide our clients with specialized expertise, allowing us to provide superior workmanship and service. We look forward to being your staircase contractor. Cost is determined by the job.

"I can only reiterate the many positive Angi reviews discussing the high standard of work produced by Mr. Rashidi and his assistant. Mr. Rashidi was able to begin work one week after providing an estimate and completed the job in four days after working steadily throughout that time. We are more than satisfied with the result and would highly recommend this company. Real craftsmanship at a reasonable price."

Ellen L on May 2022


Avatar for Advance Roofing Windows Siding & Doors

Advance Roofing Windows Siding & Doors

4.56(
255
)

Advance Roofing Windows Siding & Doors

4.56(
255
)
Customers say: Super punctual
1989 years of experience

Serving Delaware, Maryland (Cecil, Harford, Kent and Worcester Counties, New Jersey (Salem and Glouchester Counties) and Pennsylvania (Chester and Delaware Counties), Advance provides full-service offerings for all your home exterior remodeling projects including roofing, window, siding, doors, sunrooms and deck installation. Since our inception in 1989, Advance, Inc. has become widely recognized as the Delaware Valley #1 choice for exterior remodeling projects. President and Founder, Gary Derrick, began working in the remodeling industry at an early age and in doing so gained valuable insight into delivering top quality products and a great customer experience. As an engineer, Gary worked in the vinyl replacement window manufacturing business where he learned the importance of offering a premium product coupled with professional installation at a reasonable price. With Gary's experience, Advance, Inc. is dedicated to offering superior building products installed by certified professional installers at a price that’s affordable. All building products offered by Advance are accompanied by a comprehensive, no-nonsense warranty that homeowners can rely on. Advance proudly boasts an extensive Workmanship Guarantee on all products we install. Advance is a family-owned business that is fully bonded, licensed, and insured. We look forward to making your remodeling project a great experience from start to finish. Our success as a company has everything to do with being up front, fair, and honest with our customers. Because we control everything about our roofing, siding, windows and doors from measuring to installation and service, we stand behind the promises we make. We hope you’ll give us the opportunity to show your family how our products can enhance the beauty, comfort, and efficiency of your home. Please give us a call for a free estimate and find out just how affordable your next project will actually be.

"Staff was professional, knowledgeable, and did not push upgrades. We’ve used them multiple times since replacing our roof. "

Lorin H on September 2025

Serving Delaware, Maryland (Cecil, Harford, Kent and Worcester Counties, New Jersey (Salem and Glouchester Counties) and Pennsylvania (Chester and Delaware Counties), Advance provides full-service offerings for all your home exterior remodeling projects including roofing, window, siding, doors, sunrooms and deck installation. Since our inception in 1989, Advance, Inc. has become widely recognized as the Delaware Valley #1 choice for exterior remodeling projects. President and Founder, Gary Derrick, began working in the remodeling industry at an early age and in doing so gained valuable insight into delivering top quality products and a great customer experience. As an engineer, Gary worked in the vinyl replacement window manufacturing business where he learned the importance of offering a premium product coupled with professional installation at a reasonable price. With Gary's experience, Advance, Inc. is dedicated to offering superior building products installed by certified professional installers at a price that’s affordable. All building products offered by Advance are accompanied by a comprehensive, no-nonsense warranty that homeowners can rely on. Advance proudly boasts an extensive Workmanship Guarantee on all products we install. Advance is a family-owned business that is fully bonded, licensed, and insured. We look forward to making your remodeling project a great experience from start to finish. Our success as a company has everything to do with being up front, fair, and honest with our customers. Because we control everything about our roofing, siding, windows and doors from measuring to installation and service, we stand behind the promises we make. We hope you’ll give us the opportunity to show your family how our products can enhance the beauty, comfort, and efficiency of your home. Please give us a call for a free estimate and find out just how affordable your next project will actually be.

"Staff was professional, knowledgeable, and did not push upgrades. We’ve used them multiple times since replacing our roof. "

Lorin H on September 2025


Avatar for Ballard & Mensua Architecture

Ballard & Mensua Architecture

4.75(
20
)

Ballard & Mensua Architecture

4.75(
20
)
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers

Ballard Mensua Architecture, led by Seth Ballard, NCARB, AIA, is a boutique architecture firm with a focus on creating truly custom designs and solutions for our clients. We have very strong vendor and contractor relationships, a result of our detailed understanding of construction. Unlike many architects, who like to design and then hand over control to the builder, Ballard Mensua maintains control of management of the project throughout construction. We have a unique cost-study process that helps to put our clients in control of spending... and results in completion of projects on budget.. almost unheard of in this business. Our designs speak for themselves... see our website at www.ballardmensua.com. Our business philosophy is that all clients should be a reference and we work hard to make sure to see projects through. We also have a unique ability to do very large projects without tearing a house down... we save much of the house and build around it... saving sometimes 10 dumpsters of landfill (truly green). Finally, where many architects bring their large ego and force their designs on clients... Ballard Mensua prides ourselves on tailoring designs to each client, listening to specific needs and working hard to make sure that our designs fit what a client is looking for. Additional email - [email protected].

"We just finished a spectacular custom home project in McLean, VA and we are so very grateful to Seth Ballard and his team! If you are considering hiring his firm, look no further. There can be no better architect in the DC/VA/MD area – and his pricing is more than fair. We first picked Seth because we loved his architectural style and heard that he had a reputation for ensuring that his plans are executed with impeccable precision and attention to quality. Also, his references were stellar….without exception, his former clients offered glowing praise for his talent, diligence, and follow-through. And now that we are former clients, we understand why. We always knew we were going to have a gem of a home with Seth at the helm. What we did not fully appreciate at the beginning was his proven ability to help us STAY ON BUDGET and his deep bench of connections with first-rate contractors and subcontractors who were prepared to bend over backward to meet Seth’s exacting standards. Here are just a few highlights from our experience: CONCEPT PHASE: During the initial meetings at our home, Seth went the extra mile to learn all about our lifestyle, future needs, architectural likes/dislikes, and budget. During this stage of the process, he would effortlessly make freehand drawings to help us visualize potential styles and layouts. We ultimately elected to go with a craftsman design, with lots of wood features inside and out. PICKING THE RIGHT PROPERTY: Seth joined us for car rides through the local neighborhoods, helping us to scout out the property that was best suited for our construction plans – free of any potential HOA or permitting snafus. DESIGN: With Seth’s guidance, we iterated on different design options. The design phase was high-tech and highly visual. Lots of 2D and 3D elevations, plus 360-degree videos. At each step, Seth clearly identified the estimated construction cost, and we would make decisions about what to dial-up and what to dial-down. For example, we elected to go with a cheaper asphalt roof (rather than slate), but with a more premium window. There were literally dozens of choices like that, and Seth did a superb job of helping us to make the right trade-offs and to “value engineer” the house. PICKING THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR AND SUBS: One of the things that distinguishes Seth from the competition is that he works closely with a handful of contractors and subcontractors who have already been “pre-screened” for excellence. Seth connected us with a general contractor who was not only honest and diligent, but whose carpentry was truly “artisan grade.” Seth also drew upon a stable of outstanding subcontractors – in areas such as HVAC/plumbing, electrical/lighting, structural engineering, cabinetry, tile, drywall/paint, countertops, hardwood flooring, landscaping, etc. It was perfectly clear that these subs were striving to deliver the highest quality and exemplary service. Why? Because Seth was an important source of repeat business for them. This made them extremely responsive. BUDGETING: Seth developed detailed spreadsheets estimating costs for every aspect of the project, as well as options for “enhancements.” Once we made our choices, he was instrumental in securing a FLAT FEE CONTRACT with the builder (inclusive of subs) for everything we wanted. To provide even more control over the cost, the agreement specified that certain items would be “owner provided, contractor installed.” This meant that, regardless of whether we bought pricey appliances or tile or flooring, it would have no impact of the builder’s fees. To his credit, Seth’s estimates were quite accurate, and the project stayed on budget. ARCHITECT FEES: We negotiated a flat fee for Seth’s architectural services, and got way more than we bargained for. We had no idea Seth would stay so engaged throughout the project -- micromanaging every detail, and even offering interior design suggestions (e.g., stains and paints, cabinet and window designs, furniture layouts, etc.). It became clear that, regardless of how much we had agreed to pay in fees, Seth was “all in,” and was committed to ensuring that the end result was perfection. To be sure, in any large construction project, there will be some hiccups. But this was yet another area where Seth shined. Rather than being indifferent, or pointing the finger at those who were actually at fault, he would step up to “own the problem” and take charge until the issue was resolved. In one such case, he developed a design tweak that saved us money and produced a more beautiful result in the process. We never had to stress too much, because we knew Seth was 100% engaged and we could trust that the final work product would be a treasure of a home. One final thought. While Seth’s tremendous talent is obviously perfect for large custom projects, we have no doubt that he can deliver outstanding value for smaller home renovations too. When we did kitchen/bath renovations in our prior home, we naively thought that a “design-and-build” firm would deliver the best solution. With the benefit of hindsight, we could have done so much better hiring Seth as the independent architect and separately hiring a builder who would be accountable to the architect. The result would have been better quality construction, a better value, and far less stress. So whether you are about to embark on a modest remodel or getting ready to “dream big” with a new custom home, look no further than Ballard Mensua Architecture."

jack l on January 2019

Ballard Mensua Architecture, led by Seth Ballard, NCARB, AIA, is a boutique architecture firm with a focus on creating truly custom designs and solutions for our clients. We have very strong vendor and contractor relationships, a result of our detailed understanding of construction. Unlike many architects, who like to design and then hand over control to the builder, Ballard Mensua maintains control of management of the project throughout construction. We have a unique cost-study process that helps to put our clients in control of spending... and results in completion of projects on budget.. almost unheard of in this business. Our designs speak for themselves... see our website at www.ballardmensua.com. Our business philosophy is that all clients should be a reference and we work hard to make sure to see projects through. We also have a unique ability to do very large projects without tearing a house down... we save much of the house and build around it... saving sometimes 10 dumpsters of landfill (truly green). Finally, where many architects bring their large ego and force their designs on clients... Ballard Mensua prides ourselves on tailoring designs to each client, listening to specific needs and working hard to make sure that our designs fit what a client is looking for. Additional email - [email protected].

"We just finished a spectacular custom home project in McLean, VA and we are so very grateful to Seth Ballard and his team! If you are considering hiring his firm, look no further. There can be no better architect in the DC/VA/MD area – and his pricing is more than fair. We first picked Seth because we loved his architectural style and heard that he had a reputation for ensuring that his plans are executed with impeccable precision and attention to quality. Also, his references were stellar….without exception, his former clients offered glowing praise for his talent, diligence, and follow-through. And now that we are former clients, we understand why. We always knew we were going to have a gem of a home with Seth at the helm. What we did not fully appreciate at the beginning was his proven ability to help us STAY ON BUDGET and his deep bench of connections with first-rate contractors and subcontractors who were prepared to bend over backward to meet Seth’s exacting standards. Here are just a few highlights from our experience: CONCEPT PHASE: During the initial meetings at our home, Seth went the extra mile to learn all about our lifestyle, future needs, architectural likes/dislikes, and budget. During this stage of the process, he would effortlessly make freehand drawings to help us visualize potential styles and layouts. We ultimately elected to go with a craftsman design, with lots of wood features inside and out. PICKING THE RIGHT PROPERTY: Seth joined us for car rides through the local neighborhoods, helping us to scout out the property that was best suited for our construction plans – free of any potential HOA or permitting snafus. DESIGN: With Seth’s guidance, we iterated on different design options. The design phase was high-tech and highly visual. Lots of 2D and 3D elevations, plus 360-degree videos. At each step, Seth clearly identified the estimated construction cost, and we would make decisions about what to dial-up and what to dial-down. For example, we elected to go with a cheaper asphalt roof (rather than slate), but with a more premium window. There were literally dozens of choices like that, and Seth did a superb job of helping us to make the right trade-offs and to “value engineer” the house. PICKING THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR AND SUBS: One of the things that distinguishes Seth from the competition is that he works closely with a handful of contractors and subcontractors who have already been “pre-screened” for excellence. Seth connected us with a general contractor who was not only honest and diligent, but whose carpentry was truly “artisan grade.” Seth also drew upon a stable of outstanding subcontractors – in areas such as HVAC/plumbing, electrical/lighting, structural engineering, cabinetry, tile, drywall/paint, countertops, hardwood flooring, landscaping, etc. It was perfectly clear that these subs were striving to deliver the highest quality and exemplary service. Why? Because Seth was an important source of repeat business for them. This made them extremely responsive. BUDGETING: Seth developed detailed spreadsheets estimating costs for every aspect of the project, as well as options for “enhancements.” Once we made our choices, he was instrumental in securing a FLAT FEE CONTRACT with the builder (inclusive of subs) for everything we wanted. To provide even more control over the cost, the agreement specified that certain items would be “owner provided, contractor installed.” This meant that, regardless of whether we bought pricey appliances or tile or flooring, it would have no impact of the builder’s fees. To his credit, Seth’s estimates were quite accurate, and the project stayed on budget. ARCHITECT FEES: We negotiated a flat fee for Seth’s architectural services, and got way more than we bargained for. We had no idea Seth would stay so engaged throughout the project -- micromanaging every detail, and even offering interior design suggestions (e.g., stains and paints, cabinet and window designs, furniture layouts, etc.). It became clear that, regardless of how much we had agreed to pay in fees, Seth was “all in,” and was committed to ensuring that the end result was perfection. To be sure, in any large construction project, there will be some hiccups. But this was yet another area where Seth shined. Rather than being indifferent, or pointing the finger at those who were actually at fault, he would step up to “own the problem” and take charge until the issue was resolved. In one such case, he developed a design tweak that saved us money and produced a more beautiful result in the process. We never had to stress too much, because we knew Seth was 100% engaged and we could trust that the final work product would be a treasure of a home. One final thought. While Seth’s tremendous talent is obviously perfect for large custom projects, we have no doubt that he can deliver outstanding value for smaller home renovations too. When we did kitchen/bath renovations in our prior home, we naively thought that a “design-and-build” firm would deliver the best solution. With the benefit of hindsight, we could have done so much better hiring Seth as the independent architect and separately hiring a builder who would be accountable to the architect. The result would have been better quality construction, a better value, and far less stress. So whether you are about to embark on a modest remodel or getting ready to “dream big” with a new custom home, look no further than Ballard Mensua Architecture."

jack l on January 2019

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Unfinished Carpentry questions, answered by experts

The cost to repair a deck is between $900 and $3,500, depending on the cause and extent of the damage. For example, fixing a sinking deck caused by pest damage can cost between $200 and $600, while replacing sinking boards costs between $500 and $4,000.

Sagging floors, large cracks in your walls, and uneven door frames are three signs that your floor joists need to be replaced. You may also notice squeaky floorboards, windows that no longer close correctly, and stairs that sag on either side. You'll need a structural engineer or floor contractor to confirm whether the floor joists are the true problem behind these issues.

House framing can be expensive because the materials are pricey, and the job requires a high level of expertise. The more complex the plans, the more expensive the job, but even the most basic frame needs to be installed with high-quality materials and precision. When pricing your home’s framework, remember that a sturdy frame is necessary to create a safe structure.

Yes, you can hammer a nail into a wall stud. But before you do, it’s important to confirm that you’re actually nailing into a stud—and not wiring, pipes, or ductwork. To check, find a few more studs in the wall, then measure to make sure they’re either 16 or 24 inches apart.

There are approximately 5.33 board feet in a 2x4. You can use the board foot calculator in this article to easily find the answer. A 2x4 is 2 inches of thickness by 4 inches of width, so you need to find the length, with 8 feet being the most common. You’d use the calculator here to multiply 2 times 4 times 8, and then divide by 12, arriving at a total of 5.33 board feet. 

The Snow Hill, MD homeowners’ guide to contractor services

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