Author: Thomas Avery

Standing in the lumber aisle, staring at stacks of wood panels can make anyone’s head spin. Plywood, MDF, and OSB sit side by side, and making the right choice feels like a test you didn’t study for. OSB shows up on many project lists as a cheaper option, but what exactly is it? Is it actually plywood? Is it good enough for your needs? In this post, I’ll clear up the confusion. You’ll learn: What OSB really is (and how it differs from plywood) The good and not-so-good points about using it When to pick OSB for your projects (and…

Have you ever stood in an empty room with your new flooring materials and thought, “Which way should I lay this?” It’s a common question, and it’s more important than it seems. The direction you lay your flooring can change how a room looks, feels, and even how big it seems. Choosing the right direction can make a space feel more open, draw the eye in the right way, and help your home look more polished overall. But if you pick the wrong layout, even high-quality flooring can look off or out of place. In this guide, I’ll explain everything…

Ever stood in a lumber aisle and wondered what SPF means? You’re not alone. Those three letters can be confusing when you’re trying to pick the right wood for your project. Knowing your lumber types matters a lot, if you’re building a wall or fixing up a shed. Using the wrong type can cost you time, money, and lots of frustration. In this blog, you’ll learn about SPF lumber, its main benefits, and exactly when to use it for your home projects. I’ve talked with builders who use these materials daily so that you can trust the advice here comes…

I’ve always believed that a home’s exterior should look just as good as its interior. When I started looking into siding options, I kept hearing about composite siding. At first, I wasn’t sure what it was, so I did a little digging. It turns out that composite siding is a popular choice for many homes today, and for good reasons. It’s made from a mix of materials, and it’s built to last. It looks nice, doesn’t need much care, and can handle tough weather. I like things that make life easier, and composite siding seems to do just that. In…

Composite decking is a popular choice for homeowners who want a low-maintenance, wood-look outdoor space. Made from a mix of wood fibers and plastic, it’s designed to handle tough weather, moisture, and daily wear better than traditional wood. It doesn’t need staining, sealing, or constant upkeep, just simple cleaning now and then. When building a deck, lifespan matters. You want something that not only looks great but also lasts. Decks face rain, sun, snow, and heavy foot traffic, so choosing a durable material is key. So, how long does composite decking last? On average, between 25 and 30 years. Some…

Choosing the right decking for your backyard can feel a little confusing, I’ve definitely been there. With so many options out there, how do you know what’s really best for your home? Two popular choices these days are PVC decking and composite decking. At first glance, they might seem pretty similar, but after doing my own research and working with both, I’ve learned they have some important differences worth knowing about. In this blog, I’ll explain both options simply and straightforwardly. We’ll look at what they’re made of, how long they last, what they cost, and how easy they are…

When I first heard about Douglas Fir, I wasn’t sure what kind of wood it was. Some people said it was a hardwood, and others said it was a softwood. That got me curious. I wanted to know the real answer and what it meant for my building plans. I started digging into the facts and found out there’s more to wood types than just the names. Douglas Fir has some traits of hardwoods but is labeled a softwood. Sounds confusing, right? Don’t worry. I’ll explain it in a way that makes sense. In this post, I’ll break down what…

Ever stood in the lumber aisle feeling lost among rows of wood, wondering what all those numbers mean? You’re not alone. Lumber terminology can be confusing when you just want to build a simple shelf or finish a weekend project. Good news! My guide breaks down everything about dimensional lumber in plain language anyone can understand. In this blog, you’ll learn: Common sizes and their real measurements Different grades and what they mean for your project Best uses for dimensional lumber I’ll clear up the confusion with straightforward facts so you can shop with confidence and choose the right wood…

I wanted to give my hallway a fresh new look without spending too much. It felt plain and boring, so I tried adding board and batten – and it changed everything. The walls now have texture and style, and it makes the space feel more finished. The best part? It was easy to do on my own. I didn’t need fancy tools or a big budget. Just a little time, some patience, and a simple plan. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the whole process step by step. I’ll share what tools I used, how I planned the layout,…

Choosing the right wood for your home project might not seem like a big deal at first, but it can really affect how your project turns out and how long it lasts. Douglas fir and cedar are two of the most common choices people make, and each one has its strengths, depending on their needs. I’ve worked with both kinds of wood on all types of projects, and I can help you decide which one is best for your needs. You don’t want to spend money on the wrong material and end up disappointed later. In this article, I’ll compare…