I get some intriguing questions from time to time. I could not pass this one up. A popping roof means it is not just a weird occasional issue, it actually wakes her up. This concern is that the house is in some danger of collapsing. Although possible it is unlikely...
I was asked to fix a Rainbird sprinkler system that was not doing its thing. The battery was new, the system was pressurized with water. I first looked at the display that had a constant error message. It was not changing as I spun the dial so I knew something was...
I have recently come across 3 guys that have quit employment to go out on their own to become handymen for their sphere of influence. I love entrepreneurship and I encourage everyone to give it a try. I can not thank them enough to take over the small jobs that my...
A friend called to tell me that "according to the Home Depot guy" (If I had a dime for every time I've heard this) "This pull on and twist for temperature shower valve faucet is illegal now, and must be completely replaced". He also said the the parts are no longer...
I have been surprised at how often new things don't work like we expect them to. As a remodeling contractor our plumbers install lots of faucets. In a recent project we had two of them start to leak within a few months of installation at the kitchen sink. Warranty...
Joist hangers have been around for around about 59 years, they were developed by Simpson Strongtie for a friend who was looking for a way to secure some boards in a more structurally sound way. Now days there are all kinds for them for all sorts of purposes. There are...
Whole House RemodelThe Challenge The property was occupied during design and the new owners were very occupied with their school aged children. Lots of deferred maintenance items had to be addressed. The Idea The home was purchased in advance of moving in with the...
Garage renovationThe Challenge The sagging roof caused be removed bracing over the years made it look like a sway-back horse. A chiropractic adjustment and some serious support were needed. Keeping with the historic look and feel of the garage was important. There...
Garage workshop remodel The Challenge One of the bays was already used for this shop and the other two for cars. The look of the structure was to harmonize with the home. The plans were drawn by others and were not correct. Stucco work was a nightmare done a backup...
Aged home interior makeoverThe Challenge This home was built in 1955 it had good bones. The kitchen had been remodeled by a previous owner and half of the garage had been converted into a den/laundry room. The clients wanted to open up the kitchen, add another...