Author: Thomas Avery

I used to think skim coating was something only the pros needed to know, but I quickly learned it’s actually a super handy DIY trick for smoother, cleaner walls. If your drywall or plaster feels rough, looks patchy, or has a texture you dislike, a skim coat can completely refresh the surface. It creates a smooth, paint-ready finish that makes a huge difference, especially in older homes or after removing wallpaper or texture. I’ve used it on everything from hallway walls to a ceiling that had seen better days, and the results always impress me. In this post, I’ll break…

Painting baseboards might seem like a minor upgrade, but it can make a huge impact on the look and feel of your home. If you’re refreshing a room or finishing a renovation, clean and crisp baseboards instantly add polish and professionalism to any space. However, getting smooth, brush-mark-free results can be tricky, especially if you’re not a seasoned painter. Fortunately, you don’t need years of experience to paint baseboards like a pro. With the right preparation, tools, and techniques, even beginners can achieve flawless results. From prepping your trim to choosing the right brush and paint additives, you’ll learn everything…

If you’ve ever stood in the paint aisle, staring at finishes like matte, eggshell, and gloss, wondering what satin even means, I’ve been there. It sounds fancy, but satin isn’t a color; it’s a finish. It falls right between flat and shiny, giving you a soft glow without being too reflective. What I love about satin is its adaptability. It works beautifully in high-traffic areas, such as hallways and kitchens, because it’s easy to clean yet still looks smooth and elegant. In this post, I’ll break down what satin paint looks like, how it holds up, and why I keep…

Mounting a fireplace might seem straightforward, but once you start measuring and imagining your layout, you’ll realize there’s a bit more to it. I’ve been there, scratching my head, wondering if my linear unit was too high or if the traditional one should sit closer to the floor. Getting the height just right doesn’t just improve aesthetics; it enhances comfort, usability, and safety. If you’re planning a cozy living room, setting up a fireplace below a TV, or working with low ceilings, I’m here to help walk you through the key measurements that will make your setup both stylish and…

Building a gazebo can be one of the most rewarding DIY projects, especially when it adds charm and functionality to your outdoor space. If you’ve already installed decking, balustrades, deck lighting, and even some landscaping, adding a well-designed cupola will not only improve ventilation but also offer architectural beauty. This project is perfect for homeowners who enjoy crafting with wood and have basic carpentry skills. I based this guide on a real DIY project I completed over several seasons. It includes detailed steps, helpful tips, and practical advice that you can follow at home. If you’re looking to upgrade an…

In 2025, outdoor spaces are being reimagined not just as extensions of the home, but as fully immersive sanctuaries that elevate daily living. The fusion of sustainability, advanced technology, and refined design is transforming gardens, patios, and poolside retreats into dynamic living environments that cater to relaxation, wellness, and sophisticated entertaining. As homeowners seek to make the most of their outdoor real estate, every detail—from material choices to functional layouts—plays a critical role in crafting spaces that feel both indulgent and responsible. Frisco landscape designer Clark Outdoor Designs recommends these trends for 2025, guiding homeowners toward elegant, eco-friendly, and highly…

More than ever, our homes are doubling as places of restoration. And among all the wellness upgrades homeowners are making today, few deliver the impact—both visual and therapeutic—of a sauna. Whether it’s a rustic barrel sauna tucked into a garden corner or a sleek modern cube with panoramic glass, an at-home sauna offers a space to sweat, slow down, and reset. You don’t need a luxury spa budget to create one either. With today’s range of sauna kits and p Why More People Are Installing Saunas at Home The sauna has long been a staple of Finnish and Swedish culture.…

Thinking about new flooring and stuck between vinyl and linoleum? You’re not alone. Most homeowners get these two mixed up, assuming they’re basically the same thing. But they’re not! In this guide, I’ll break down exactly what makes vinyl and linoleum different. I’ll walk you through: What each material really is How they look and feel Their durability You’ll find which floor covering matches your home’s needs, budget, and style. Trust me, by the end of this blog, you’ll be a flooring expert who can confidently choose between vinyl and linoleum. Let’s solve this flooring puzzle together. What Are Vinyl…

Choosing the right paint finish matters just as much as picking the right color. I learned that firsthand when I painted my living room, same shade, but different finish, and the results were night and day. Satin finish quickly became one of my go-to options because of its smooth, soft sheen and reliable durability. It works just as well on trim as it does on walls, offering a clean look that’s easy to maintain. In this blog, I’ll walk you through what satin paint really is, what makes it stand out from other finishes, and why it’s such a popular…

When I started exploring paint options for my walls, I thought “flat” and “matte” were just two words for the same thing. However, once I tested them, I noticed how each finish behaves slightly differently. They may look similar at a glance, but their performance, durability, and best uses vary more than you’d expect. In this guide, I’m breaking down everything I learned about flat and matte paint. You’ll find side-by-side comparisons, practical benefits, ideal use cases, and tips to choose the right finish for your space. If you’re working on a home makeover or repainting a room, understanding the…