Author: Thomas Avery

Have you ever looked at a staircase and wondered what all the different parts are called? Maybe you’re planning to build or remodel your own stairs and want to understand the terminology. Or perhaps you’re just curious about how everything fits together. Whatever the reason, knowing the right terms can make a huge difference when you’re working with contractors or designers. I’ve spent a lot of time learning about stair construction, and I’ve found that understanding the terminology makes the whole process a lot smoother. In this blog, I’ll cover the essential parts of stairs and the different types of…

Choosing the right stain for your deck can be confusing with so many opinions out there. Some people prefer transparent stains to highlight the wood’s natural grain, while others go for semi-transparent stains for added color and protection. So, which should you choose? I’ve looked into what homeowners and DIYers recommend and will help you sort it out. You’ll learn how each stain looks, how long it lasts, and what kind of care it needs. I’ll also share what works best in different conditions, like sunny or shady areas. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing the right stain…

A bonus room above the garage can be a great space, but it’s often underused. With a little creativity, you can transform it into a functional and stylish area that fits your needs. From extra storage to a cozy home office, the possibilities are endless. I’ve seen many people turn these spaces into game rooms, reading nooks, or even guest rooms. The key is making sure the space works for you, both in style and function. In this guide, I’ll share some smart design ideas to help you make the most of that bonus room. These ideas are easy to…

When I started planning to repaint my home, I assumed I could just use the same paint for both the walls and the ceilings. It felt like a good way to save time and maybe even a little money. But the more I looked into it, the more I realized that ceiling paint and wall paint are not the same thing. Each one is designed for a different purpose, and using the right type in the right place can make a big difference in how everything looks and lasts. Ceiling paint is thicker, flatter, and made to stay put without…

Before I paint anything, walls, furniture, or trim I always stop and ask myself: Do I really need to prime? Priming can feel like an extra step that slows things down, but from experience, skipping it at the wrong time leads to streaky coverage, uneven color, and peeling paint. Not worth it. In this guide, I’ll break down when primer is essential, when you can skip it, and how to get that smooth, long-lasting finish every time. If you’re covering dark walls, working with raw materials, or want your paint to last, knowing when to prime makes all the difference.…

I’ve been there, staring at a nearly full can of interior paint after a bedroom makeover and thinking, “Can this go on the shed out back?” It seems like a smart way to save time and money. But interior and exterior paints are designed for very different environments. Interior paints focus on being easy to clean and safe to breathe, while exterior paints are made to withstand sun, rain, wind, and temperature changes. Many homeowners, like me, consider using extra interior paint outdoors, especially for small projects like a garden bench. Before doing so, it’s important to understand the risks…

Introduction I must say, home design has evolved rather dramatically in the past few years, and the trend is leaning toward customized spaces with smart, practical design features. In today’s market, it is not enough for homeowners and designers to personalize their interiors uniquely and expressively. A new and changing technology is now swooping in to transform interior decorating: 3D Printing at Home; it is allowing the average person to customize pieces so that the end products fit perfectly within their home spaces. Here, we’ll take a look at how 3D printing is revolutionizing modern interiors, from statement decor to…

As meteorologists predict record-breaking temperatures across the country this summer, homeowners are bracing for the heat and the inevitable spike in energy bills that follows. Climate experts warn that this summer could rank among the hottest in recorded history, with extended heat waves expected to blanket many regions for weeks at a time. While air conditioning offers immediate relief, relying solely on it can be costly and environmentally problematic. Fortunately, there are numerous strategies—both ancient and innovative—that can help maintain a comfortable indoor climate without breaking the bank. The challenge of keeping cool is as old as shelter itself. Before…

Hiring a fence builder may seem like a complicated task, but in today’s digital landscape, it is a more straightforward and convenient process. Whether you’re enclosing a backyard for privacy, installing a pool safety barrier, or simply defining property lines, choosing the proper professional makes all the difference. In the current market, property owners are investing in fencing projects, with installation figures rising steadily in both urban and suburban communities. By understanding how professionals work, what factors drive costs, and how to budget effectively, using resources like a fence cost calculator, you can streamline your project and avoid surprises. In…

Adding onto your home is a big decision — but it’s also one of the most rewarding ways to create more space, comfort, and long-term value. Whether you’re thinking about a new bedroom, a larger kitchen, or even an in-law suite, planning a home addition in Maryland takes more than just inspiration from Pinterest or HGTV. It takes the right information and the right local partner. As a family-owned contractor with decades of experience in Carroll County and surrounding areas, we’ve seen what works — and what can go wrong — when homeowners jump into a project without clear guidance.…