Universal Windows Direct was founded in April of 2002 by William Barr and Michael Strmac. It was their mission to create a home improvement company that offers high quality home improvement goods at the best possible value. What began as two guys in a 350 square foot office quickly grew to become one of the nation's leading remodeling companies. Today, Universal Windows Direct represents thousands of customers and has a rapidly growing network of locations nationwide, all of which are actively involved in the communities they serve.
"Their sales team was really polite and respectful. Their installation crew did a great job and cleaned up after themselves really well. I was really pleased with the overall experience."
Welcome to Hemlock Hollow Construction! We've been proudly serving Swanton since 1987. Call us today for fast, quality and reliable service from one of the best in the business! We offer free estimates on all remodeling projects.
"It went really well! Prompt response to my original request. Prompt arrival for ALL subsequent visits - by the sales rep, 2 different measurement guys, and the installers. We had a very tight schedule and they met it. The installations were done beautifully. I was personally home for the door installation (the windows were done on a separate day) and I can tell you that the two guys paid alot of attention to all the details, tested the door, cleaned the door, swept up after themselves, etc. They were very courteous throughout. I am SO happy with my new windows. 3 of them were straight-up replacements. And never have I had windows that slid up and down so well. And the 4th was a replacement of my kitchen over-the-sink window with a window that cranks open. It is lovely. It is a huge window, but even my 9 year old can crank it open and closed. I am already planning on calling them again for several more windows and would recommend them to anyone. "
"Excellent work. We purchased natural cherry cabinets in shaker style, with the panels made of solid wood rather than veneer. That is more difficult work, as each panel has to be constructed from several planks. Moreover, the clear finish would leave any flaws more visible. Simply put, the doors are beautiful--flawless in both construction and finish. They are similar in quality to custom cherry furniture we own."
"My daughter knew of my terrible experience with my prior company and she had just gotten a new wireless system from 1st Security. She could not stop raving about how wonderful they were and how awesome the system was compared to her old one. OMG, I am sooo happy that she insisted that I have Jeremy from 1st Security come do a presentation and an assessment of my security needs. He was on time, friendly, professional and answered all of my questions without hesitation. Jeremy explained the 1st Security wireless system, showed me samples of the state of the art equipment , how easily it operated and then surveyed my house to determine the most comprehensive protection options for me. He offered me the Angie's List Special and a completely affordable package which even included the monitoring. It took less than an hour!!! Jeremy scheduled the installation and sent me all of the paperwork via email to docusign. I could not wait! In a couple of days , Larry, the master technical installer appeared at my door very early. He greeted me with a smile and immediately showed me each piece of equipment ,and where he was going to install them. He did this very quickly, despite having to climb over furniture and enter tight spaces to place the contacts. I was astounded when after he finished, he sat down and gave me a full tutorial on using the system. He showed me all of it's capabilities, and answered my many questions . I could not believe how much easier and more up to date this security system was to use than my old one. I have had many, many technicians in my home from the prior system, but absolutely none were as knowledgeable, personable, efficient or professional as Larry. He would not leave until I was comfortable, and even then advised me to call if I needed anything or had more questions. He was amazing.!!! A few days after my system was installed, I triggered a false alarm. The monitoring station called right away and did not hang up until assured that all was well. I did not have to wait or try to call them and get put on hold like with my old system. I only wish that I had more houses for them to install their system into, but since I don't, I plan to refer them to everyone that I know. 1st Security is affordable, state of the art and comprehensive. They are honest with no fine print that you have to worry about! I sincerely appreciate Jeremy and Larry and sleep so much better because of them . Thank you 1st Security!!!"
"Jorge Lazo and his crew came in and painted 5 bedrooms, our master bathroom plus a large closet, ALL IN ONE DAY. They were punctual, in fact they were a little early, which is always very nice. They were professional and very tidy. Jorge and his team did a great job in our home and I will definitely use them again when we paint the outside of our house. If you are looking for a painter who is reasonably priced, professional, punctual and very good at what he does, then I highly recommend Jorge Lazo. Malinda Green "
"Excellent, the crew were very professional and did a beautiful job and made sure everything was cleaned before they departed. They had me check over the doors and windows that were in installed to make sure I was satisfied, I have asked to have the same crew to come back to install the new windows in the living room."
The best place to install a dog door is on an exterior door that leads to a fenced-in area of your rear yard. This position will let your dog go in and out as they need and still keep them safe in your yard when they’re outside. You should plan on installing the bottom of the doggie door a minimum of 3 inches above the bottom of your exterior door to maintain the structural integrity of the door, and never cut out a hole within 3 inches of exterior door glass.
The best direction for a gate to swing depends on its location and purpose, but swinging inward is the general rule. An inward swing is often considered safer, prevents the gate from opening into public spaces like a sidewalk, and may be required by local building codes.
There are exceptions and specific considerations. If your property is on a slope, an inward swing might not be possible. For a deck gate, it's safest to have it swing away from any steps. In a backyard, the direction can be a matter of preference, though an inward swing can be helpful when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.
Regardless of direction, ensure the gate can open fully without hitting any objects or blocking spaces. While an inward swing is standard, a gate that can swing both in and out offers the most flexibility if your setup allows for it.
It’s certainly easier to paint a door while it’s still on its hinges, but you may get better results if you remove it from the hinges. Painting a door off the hinges allows you to work on it horizontally, making prep work easier, reducing drips, and allowing undisturbed drying time.
Outswing doors are more popular for exterior doors as they offer more room for moving items in and out of a home. And because the hinges are on the outside of the door, they’re more secure against potential break-ins. But, outswing doors are more susceptible to the elements and are more expensive. Comparing inswing vs. outswing doors depends on your budget, needs, and overall preference.
On average, sliding glass patio doors can last between 20 and 30 years. Their actual lifespan depends on several factors, including proper installation, frequency of use, and regular maintenance of the sliding components. While this is the typical range, minor problems and the need for occasional repairs or part replacements can still occur. Addressing issues as soon as they arise and performing regular maintenance will help extend the door's life. If the door is older and requires frequent or significant repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit.
The Swanton, MD homeowners’ guide to door services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Whether you’re installing a new door or replacing an existing one, the cost of door installation varies based on location, door type, framing needs, and other factors.
Are you looking to upgrade an old door in your home? Use this interior door installation cost guide to estimate the project's total cost and learn how to save.
There are many types of interior doors, from swinging to folding and sliding. This article breaks down each to help you find the right door for your needs.
