Author: Thomas Avery

Thinking about using butcher block countertops in your kitchen, but not sure if they’re the right choice? You’re not alone. I’ve seen many people love the natural look of wood but worry about how it holds up over time. That’s what I’m here to help you figure out. You’ll learn what makes butcher block great and what might make it a bit tricky to live with. I’ll break down the good and the bad so you can see if it fits your kitchen and lifestyle. If you’re trying to balance beauty, cost, and care when choosing a countertop, this guide…

After months of staring at my living room walls, I finally decided to repaint them. The walls were plain white, and I wanted something with more character. I picked Pigeon (no.25) because it looked like a soft, muted green-gray in the catalog. When I brought home the sample pot, I worried it might turn out too dark or too green for my small space. The paint cost more than I usually spend, which added to my concern. In this blog, I’ll tell you exactly how Pigeon looks in different lights, how it pairs with my furniture, and if it’s worth…

Prescott Green by Benjamin Moore is one of those colors I kept circling back to during my last project. It’s soft, natural, and has that subtle charm that doesn’t scream for attention, but still transforms a space. I’ve used it in a small guest room, and it created a peaceful atmosphere without being too cool or too warm. If you’re into greens that feel grounded and not too minty or too muddy, Prescott Green might check all your boxes. In this blog, I’ll walk you through what makes this color special, how to use it, where it works best, and…

Looking for the perfect green paint? Sweet Basil (455) from Benjamin Moore might be your answer. This deep, earthy green has been gaining serious attention from designers and homeowners alike. With its rich undertones and versatile nature, Sweet Basil creates spaces that feel both cozy and welcoming. I’ve tested this color in various lighting conditions and rooms to give you the complete picture of how it performs in real homes. In this review, I’ll walk you through: Sweet Basil’s unique color profile Best rooms and design styles for this shade Complementary colors and accents If you’re painting a kitchen, bedroom,…

Sanding a deck might not be the most glamorous part of homeownership, but I’ve found it to be one of the most satisfying projects I’ve taken on. When I first decided to revive my splintered old deck, I didn’t expect sanding to make such a big difference, but it did. A smooth surface not only looks cleaner and more inviting, but it also helps stains and sealants soak in evenly and last longer. If you skip this step, you might end up with patchy finishes or worse, splinters under bare feet. In this blog, I’ll guide you step-by-step on how…

When you’re working on a painting project, knowing how long your paint will last is more important than you might think. It can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration. With the right care and storage, you can extend the life of your paint, making sure it’s ready to go when you are. After all, no one wants to open a can of paint, only to find it’s gone bad. In this blog, I’ll walk you through how long paint typically lasts and how you can tell if it’s expired. Understanding this will help you make the…

Ever picked up a “2×4” and wondered why it didn’t actually measure 2 inches by 4 inches? I definitely did. When I first started working on DIY projects, this small detail threw me off more than once. It was frustrating to find out something so basic wasn’t what it seemed. I remember measuring it, thinking I had made a mistake – but no, the wood really was smaller. Why does this happen? And what does it mean for your projects? Once I understood the difference between the labeled size and the actual size, my cuts became more accurate, and things…

Are you sick of spending weekends sanding, staining, and repairing your wooden deck? You’re not alone. Homeowners everywhere are turning to Trex decking as a smart alternative to traditional wood. This engineered material promises durability, less maintenance, and a fresh look that lasts for years. But can Trex decking truly stand up to sun, rain, and heavy foot traffic? In this guide, I’ll break down: Actual lifespan expectations How Trex compares to wood decking Maintenance tips to maximize your deck’s life If you’re planning a new deck or replacing an old one, I’m here to help you make the best…

When I first painted pressure-treated wood, I thought it’d be just like any other outdoor project. I was wrong. If you don’t take a few extra steps, your paint can start peeling within months. Pressure-treated wood is great because it resists rot, insects, and moisture, but those same chemicals make it tricky to paint. The treatment can actually push paint away if you rush the process. In this blog, I’ll share what I wish I had known from the start. You’ll learn what pressure-treated wood is, how to handle it, and a step-by-step method that really works. Let’s turn your…

Tiles are everywhere: kitchen backsplashes, bathroom floors, shower walls, entryways, and even fireplaces. The style, shape, color, and finish of a tile can drastically change a room’s atmosphere. The right tile can make a space feel cozy, bold, fresh, or modern. Choosing the right tile is key, but with so many options available, it can feel overwhelming. Some tiles are small and detailed, while others are large and minimalist. In this guide, I’ll walk you through various tile styles, from classic to modern, and explain how shape and finish impact the overall look. I’ll also highlight where each tile works…