"First remodel and it was a good learning experience. This kitchen remodel included taking the kitchen down to the studs, reworking the floor plan to add a walk-in pantry, and getting all new cabinets and appliances. The end result is amazing. Biggest learning point for me: working with subcontractors. I hired Bob Kitchell for this project because of his reputation and work ethic. However, with the number of projects ongoing, Bob assigned our project to a subcontractor and his crew. While the job was done well, my initial planning conversations regarding my project and research I did on local contractors did not include the new project subcontractor. Something to think about for future projects!"
"The people here are truly wonderful. They listened to my needs and gave me a fair price. I am so happy with their professionalism and their care on my home's project that I would call them again in an instant for future work needing to be done. This company is one I feel you can really trust and to me that's priceless."
"After I approved the drapes, I was sent an invoice for $700. I paid the invoice. It's been over a year and despite numerous emails (over a dozen) with Amanda Zettel of Homemade Design, I still have not received the drapes or a refund. I was very satisfied with all of Homemade Design's work up until this experience."
"Excellent - I ended up hiring someone to help with shopping and finishing piece - waste of time and money. Jill's service was by far the most useful and best value in my decorating process. "
"He done the fence around my whole property, have never had any problems with it. It also looks amazing. It has withstood very high winds. Would recommend"
"Mauricio and his crew did a great job. The addition is beautiful. He is very easy to work with on design and will go that "extra mile" to make sure you are satisfied. "
I have 35 years experience building in the Austin area. Siding exterior trim and outdoor entertainment areas as in pergolas arbors are my specialty to me. I can build an addition to your existing house I can build your beautiful deck can replace your windows or doors. I’m an Army Veteran.
Cross Contracting is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
Unfinished Carpentry questions, answered by experts
For maximum stability, install grab bars on wall studs, as this will adequately support the weight. However, if you don't have access to studs, you can get by with wall anchors. If opting for the latter, choose specialty hollow wall anchors.
Yes, you can find ceiling joists using simple tools if a stud finder isn't available.
Using a hammer requires patience and a keen ear. Gently tap the ceiling in a grid pattern, listening for sound changes. A hollow sound indicates space between joists, while a solid, dull thud suggests a joist. Mark the location with a pencil and confirm by tapping from different angles.
Alternatively, you can use a nail, but this method will leave small holes. You'll feel increased resistance when the nail hits a joist. Mark the spot and repeat the process every 16 or 24 inches to map the joist locations. This method is considered less reliable than using a stud finder.
Costs depend on furniture type, size, complexity, and whether additional modifications are needed.
Bump-out additions can extend anywhere from 2 to 15 feet from an existing room. The right size will depend on how you plan to use the new space. For a cantilever bump-out, which doesn't require additional foundation support, the limit is typically 24 inches (2 feet). If a footing and foundation are part of the project, a bump-out can be much larger, even encompassing a whole room. It's also important to remember that many residential properties have limits on the total house size relative to the lot size.
Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they’re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them.
The Chillicothe, TX homeowners’ guide to contractor services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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.
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