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!!!"
"They were very professional and fast. They spackled , caulked, covered a very saturated blue with beige, painted the ceilings, primed and painted doors, and painted trim all in one day. It turned out beautifully. "
"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."
While a pocket door can be a smart decision to add privacy in a small space, it most likely won’t increase home value. Pocket doors can sometimes be difficult to maintain, and they can pose a challenge to those with mobility issues. But generally speaking, adding an interior door where privacy is needed will be a benefit to homebuyers.
Yes, barn doors can be too heavy, although the limitation is usually imposed by the mounting hardware you buy and not your home’s framing, unless you’re building an unusually wide door. To keep the weight down, you can opt for 1-by material rather than 2-by material, and choose a softwood like pine rather than a hardwood like maple or oak. Check the weight limits on your mounting hardware, and always attach your door track to studs rather than to drywall anchors.
You can open up more space between the door and the floor by sanding the bottom of the door, but it will take longer compared to using a hand planer. However, you could use a belt sander, which some believe is even better than a hand planer for planing a door. Also, it could leave a smoother finish on the bottom of the door.
WD-40 can be used on squeaky door hinges, but it is generally considered a temporary, short-term solution rather than a long-term fix. While it can silence a squeak in a pinch by breaking down rust and grime, it is not a true lubricant, as it contains only a small amount of lubricating oil that evaporates quickly. Using WD-40 alone may lead to the squeak returning and can attract dirt and dust, potentially causing more wear on the hinge over time. For a more effective and lasting solution, it is recommended to first use WD-40 to clean the hinge, then wipe it clean. Afterward, apply a dedicated lubricant such as silicone spray, white lithium grease, a metal or plastic lubricant, or an oil-based product like petroleum jelly.
If a wooden door swells from temporary humidity or moisture, it should return to its original size as the environment dries out. However, if the door remains swollen due to prolonged exposure to moisture or water damage, it may not fully revert to its original shape and could require repairs or replacement. Using a dehumidifier and ensuring your doorway has good ventilation can help prevent and reduce swelling in wooden doors.
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.
