Certifying the Best Home Service Companies Since 1997
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“The Best Pick Reports guidebook is extremely easy to use. We called a contractor and they came out that day. They were wonderful. I had to replace two air conditioners, and they were replaced that day. Just fantastic!”
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The Best Pick® certification has represented excellence in service for 28 years. Our mission is to connect homeowners with quality home service companies so that you can easily find a top-rated company for any home project.
www.bestpickreports.com
To establish the recommendations in each Best Pick Reports® publication, we calculate a star rating based on the past three years of a company’s customer reviews. We use our own survey platform, work with our sister research company GuildQuality to survey a company’s previous customers and, if needed, analyze Google reviews. We also evaluate a company’s credit history and financial standing. Only the companies that meet our qualification standards are invited to participate in the Best Pick program.
RESEARCH
We rely on online reviews, independent surveys, and company financial data to identify top local companies in dozens of home service categories.
Inclusion is by invitation alone and is extended only if the company has met our qualification standards.
At least 80% of responses via our in-house customer surveying must be positive. We also look for 25+ Google reviews and a 4.0+ rating.
We publish Certified Best Pick® companies semi-annually. Companies pay a fee for research and publication distribution.
We verify that companies carry all state-required licenses and insurance.
Companies are backed by the Best Pick Guarantee, giving homeowners security and confidence when hiring.
Getting referrals from your neighbors is a traditional method of identifying a company you feel you can trust, but a limited number of referrals does not always tell the whole story. This is why we take word of mouth to the next level by analyzing independent customer surveys and online reviews.
By proactively seeking homeowner feedback, we make sure that the reviews we use to rate companies are not from a biased, vocal minority, as is commonly the case with other review guides. Companies also cannot buy a good rating; the only way they can obtain the Certified Best Pick® designation is to earn it by having many satisfied customers and maintaining their stellar reputation year after year.
This is your guide to the best home service experiences. We only recommend the Best Picks for your home projects. See what we do best:
Features a short list of top local companies and their accurate ratings
Stands behind recommendations with a service guarantee
Rates companies based on customer feedback
Communicates with insurance agencies to verify coverage annually
Relies on a dedicated team for qualification monitoring
Proactively publishes reviews
Directly confirms trade licenses every year with state authorities
Prints all state-required trade license numbers for each company
Best Pick Reports, LLC, engages in extensive research to compile the information available in connection with the Best Pick Reports® publications and web site (BestPickReports.com). (Collectively, the publications and web site are referred to as the “reports.”) The reports are based upon the opinions of homeowners interviewed. Best Pick Reports is not affiliated with any government body or agency. The specific methodologies used by Best Pick Reports are discussed in detail in the Additional Information section of the report. Best Pick Reports makes no predictions or guarantees regarding the availability, ability, or willingness of a service provider to provide services. The reports are provided “as is,” and all warranties, representations, or endorsements, express or implied, oral or written, with regard to the reports, including, without limitation, any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are expressly disclaimed by Best Pick Reports. You agree Best Pick Reports and its parent and related companies are not responsible for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, punitive, consequential, or any other damages that may result in any way from your use of or inability to use the reports. Except eligible refunds pursuant to the Best Pick Guarantee, Best Pick Reports’ (and its parent and related companies’) total aggregate liability to you for any claims relating in any way to the reports shall be limited to the refund of any amount paid by you to Best Pick Reports for the report that is the subject of the claim. All statements concerning insurance, licenses, etc., are informational only and are verified on an annual basis. Additionally, license information presented refers only to the titled category a company has been recommended for, and does not refer to or make any determina
• Air conditioning and heating services
• Equipment repair and replacement
• System troubleshooting
• Maintenance agreements
• Refrigerant recharging or refilling
• HVAC system and equipment installation
• Thermostat installation, replacement, and troubleshooting
• Humidifier and dehumidifier installation
• Regular preventive maintenance keeps your system running well. Ask about maintenance plans or membership programs. Maintenance plans typically include two maintenance visits per year in addition to discounts and perks.
MD
• The right HVAC system size is key. If the system is too small, it will struggle on really hot or cold days. If the system is too large, it will cycle on and off frequently, which reduces its lifespan.
• Your service provider may offer labor warranties, and your equipment should carry a manufacturers’ warranty. Ask your HVAC company if they honor manufacturer warranties. Get all warranty information in writing.
• HVAC ductwork can leak 30 to 35 percent of the system capacity into attics and crawl spaces. That’s cooled or heated air you’re paying for but not using. Sealing the ducts can lower energy costs and boost air circulation.
“CroppMetcalfe was built on and continues to provide high-quality service, high-quality products, and complete customer satisfaction. Our most loyal customers have stayed with us for over 30 years. Our vision is to serve our customers with the goal of creating customers for life.” Tim Cropp |
General Manager
Services Offered: CroppMetcalfe offers the sale, service, and installation of air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, air cleaners, boilers, humidifiers, and other home comfort products. The company specializes in service agreements for both residential and commercial customers.
Warranty: CroppMetcalfe offers 30-day labor and 90-day parts warranties for residential HVAC services and 5-year warranties on new installations.
Company History: The regional, family-operated company was founded in 1979 by Mitchell Cropp and has three locations in the Washington, DC, area.
Distinctions: CroppMetcalfe is a winner of multiple Carrier President’s Awards and was recognized as a 2018 National Contractor of the Year by the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC).
Employee Information: Technicians are rigorously trained, wear uniforms, and drive fully stocked vehicles.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) HVAC 01-8486, RC900130
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“Grove offers value that cannot be measured. We believe kindness is always necessary. Hard work is a reflection of who we are, and we pursue excellence at all times. We take pride in the craftsmen we train and employ; a fact you’ll notice immediately in the attitude and integrity that they bring to your job.”
Gary W. Grove | President & Owner
Services Offered: Grove offers residential and commercial HVAC installation, design, maintenance, and repair as well as installation and service of air ducts, central air purifiers, water heaters, and boilers.
Warranty: Grove offers a two-year labor warranty on all new equipment installations and a lifetime craftsmanship warranty on all installations. The company honors all equipment manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: Grove was founded in 2002.
Distinctions: Grove is a Trane Comfort Specialist.
Additional Information: Grove installs and services equipment from all leading manufacturers, specializing in green products such as geothermal heat pumps and energy-efficient heat pumps, air conditioners, and furnaces. The company also specializes in Mitsubishi ductless mini-split systems.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified
“Bay Breeze was started with the main focus to deliver 100 percent customer satisfaction. We continue to provide an immeasurable value in the services and quality products that we offer, and we will continue to take care of the customer first. Our dedication is your peace of mind.” Ryan Butler | Owner & President
Services Offered: Bay Breeze sells, services, and installs air conditioners, air source heat pumps and geothermal heat pumps, oil and gas furnaces, boilers, ductless units, and indoor air quality products. The company also offers maintenance contracts.
Warranty: Bay Breeze offers a double lifetime workmanship warranty on all equipment installations and a one-year parts-and-labor warranty on all service parts installed.
Company History: The company was established in 2001.
Distinctions: Bay Breeze is a Trane Comfort Specialist.
Additional Information: The company services and repairs all equipment brands and models and installs primarily Trane equipment and Mitsubishi ductless units. Bay Breeze also offers green products, such as ClimateMaster geothermal heat pumps, tankless water heaters, and heat pump water heaters.
“We are a family-owned-and-operated company, and our goal is to provide you with ultimate comfort in your home coupled with outstanding customer service. We take the time to listen to your needs so we can provide you with the best energy-efficient solutions to make your home as comfortable and safe as possible.” Andrew Fitzhugh Sr. | President
Services Offered: Amazing Plumbing, Heating & Air provides service, installation, and maintenance of ductless systems, gas and oil furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, hot water and steam boilers, geothermal systems, air cleaners, air purifiers, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers. The company provides emergency services for HVAC systems.
Warranty: Amazing Plumbing, Heating & Air offers a one-year warranty on repairs and up to a twelve-year warranty on installations.
Company History: Founded in 2006, the company serves Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, and Prince George’s County.
Employee Information: The company hires full-time employees who undergo drug tests, background checks, and personality assessments.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) HVAC 01-9917
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
“My Plumber PLUS is committed to being the company of choice for all of our customers’ needs. We strive to exceed the expectations of our customers on every visit. We respond to our clients’ needs diligently, quickly, and honestly with the highest regard for customer satisfaction.” Wendell Presgrave | President
Services Offered: My Plumber PLUS provides air conditioning and heating repair, installation, replacement, and maintenance for residential customers. Additional services include plumbing and electrical repairs and installation.
Warranty: The company offers a variety of parts-and-labor warranties as well as a satisfaction guarantee on all work performed. My Plumber PLUS honors manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: My Plumber PLUS was founded in 1982.
Distinctions: The company is a member of the PHCC and the Prince William Chamber of Commerce and was named a Business Excellence Award nominee by the Chamber. Founder Wendell Presgrave was Virginia’s PHCC Plumbing Contractor of the Year in 2015.
Employee Information: Uniformed employees drive marked vehicles and are background checked.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s)
Verified Workers’ Comp
“Staton’s number one priority is people, always. We understand that plumbing, heating, and cooling issues can be stressful, so we provide a seamless customer experience to restore your peace of mind. We believe in keeping you comfortable year-round so you can be present with your family. We look forward to earning your business.” Will Staton | Owner
Services Offered: Staton specializes in air conditioning and heating, plumbing, and drain and sewer cleaning services. The company’s air conditioning and heating services include HVAC system installation, repair, and replacement; ductless mini-split installation; boilers; indoor air quality solutions; and air purifiers and humidifiers. Maintenance plans are available.
Warranty: New HVAC system replacements carry a ten-year parts-andlabor warranty.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 1983.
Distinctions: The company won What’s Up? Media’s Best of Annapolis 2023 in the HVAC category and Best of Central Maryland 2023 in the Plumber category.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms.
Services Not Offered: Duct cleaning is not offered.
Minimum Job: Plumbing and HVAC repair calls have a $39 trip fee, which is waived if the job is sold that day.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) HVAC 02-50740
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
■ S & E Appliance Repairs LLC
2nd year as a Best Pick
Appliance Repair Educational Content
• Repair and installation of most common household appliances, including refrigerators; freezers; ice makers; gas and electric ranges, stoves, and ovens; induction cooktops; microwave ovens; dishwashers; garbage disposals; trash compactors; and clothes washers and dryers
• Factory-certified services
• Preventative maintenance
• Make sure your food stays at a safe temperature. Keep your refrigerator temperature set between 35 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. The freezer temperature should be set to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Try to keep your freezer stocked to increase its efficiency. If you have an ice maker or in-unit water, stay on top of regular water filter changes. Most refrigerators have a reminder light to help you remember.
• Hot water is essential for clean and dry dishes. Low water temperatures can be one reason dishes are not getting completely clean. Check that your water heater is set to the right temperature. The ideal temperature is between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. For safety reasons, don’t set the temperature to below 120 or above 140. When you load the dishwasher, make sure nothing blocks the spray arm.
• If you use your garbage disposal, turn on cold water before putting food into it. Food should be completely ground up and flushed out before the disposal is turned off. Feeding the disposal a large amount of waste too fast can clog pipes, so feed large amounts slowly or, better yet, throw it in the trash or compost.
• The high heat from an oven’s self-cleaning cycle is dangerous and can cause important oven parts to burn out, so try to avoid using that feature. Though it is a far more manual process, cleaning your oven by hand is much safer.
• Rubber-backed mats can cause unbalanced washing machine loads. The rubber backing can also break down and separate, clogging hoses, pumps, filters, and valves. If possible, wash these types of items by hand in a tub or laundry sink.
• Avoid running loose change, pocket knives, and other metal items through the wash. They can damage the washing machine’s internal components and pump system. Washing machine hoses can deteriorate over time. Avoid a surprise leak by replacing your washer hose approximately every five years. If you leave town for an extended period of time, shut off the water to your washing machine so you don’t have to worry about leaks.
Neither the state of Maryland nor the District of Columbia issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
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“We have years of experience in this business and a staff that is always ready to go the extra mile to make sure everyone’s appliances are repaired and working like new. S & E Appliance Repairs is ready to go to work when one of your appliances decides to fail. Rest assured that we can get the job done in a timely manner.” Sam Khalladi | General Manager
Services Offered: S & E Appliance Repairs LLC repairs and services residential appliances, including refrigerators, freezers, garbage disposals, dishwashers, ovens, ranges, clothes washers, and dryers.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: S & E Appliance Repairs is a family-owned-andoperated company that was founded in 2011.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and are background checked.
Additional Information: The company repairs and services all major household brands, including but not limited to Sub-Zero, Viking, GE, Whirlpool, Kenmore, Samsung, LG, and KitchenAid.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Workers’ Comp Exempt
Best Pick Guaranteed
“The Best Pick Reports guidebook is helpful. I’d recommend it.”
Pick Reports recommends:
4th year as a Best Pick
• Basement remodeling and renovation
• Design/build services
• General contractor services
• The basement must be dry before remodeling begins. Your contractor might use a moisture meter to make absolutely sure that the space is dry and ready for construction. Even small amounts of water can damage carpets and furniture or cause mold or mildew growth. If you have had moisture problems in the basement in the past, have those issues addressed before the remodeling work starts.
• Remodeling work can last from several days to several months, depending on the complexity of the project. Your contractor may move some larger items for you. You will be responsible for packing up any small things that could get in the way or be damaged. If your project involves removing existing cabinetry or built-in storage, empty those spaces before any work begins.
• The wrong lighting makes a basement feel small and dark. Canister or recessed lighting is popular for basements because it does not take up headroom. Downlighting points the eye away from the ceiling, making the room seem taller.
Track lighting illuminates a basement without a low-hanging light.
• Your existing HVAC system might be able to meet the requirements of the new space, but if it isn’t large enough, you will need a dedicated HVAC unit for the basement. Depending on the size of your basement, a mini-split or heat pump system might be good options.
• I-beams and other support structures might not look great in your new space, but they usually can’t be removed (or moved at all). Instead, talk to your contractor about creative ways to hide them. I-beams and other supports can often be disguised with architectural elements or hidden in walls.
• Electrical panels, ducts, pipes, and wires still need to be accessible once the space is finished. A drop ceiling is a functional way to do this, but not everyone loves that look. If you opt for a drywalled ceiling, work with your contractor to design access points for important utilities.
• Your contractor and the crews working in your house will do their best to keep the area safe. Keep a close eye on your kids and pets. Don’t let them wander down to the basement to explore. These precautions help keep everyone safe.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. Scan for additional educational content
Services Offered: BasementRemodeling.com performs basement finishing and remodeling projects for residents in Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC. The company also offers basement lowering, underpinning, and waterproofing services, as well as free estimates for all basement services.
Warranty: The company offers a one-year labor warranty for all basement projects. Some specialty services include additional warranties. Ask for details.
Company History: The company started in 2006.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer flooring, painting, plumbing, electrical, or HVAC as stand-alone services.
Minimum Job: Basement finishing projects start at $20,000.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-129172, 410516000631
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
■ Long Home Products
4th year as a Best Pick
■ Remodel Now
2nd year as a Best Pick
• Bathtub and shower conversion services
• One-day bathroom remodeling services
• Design services
• Shower and tub replacement
• Cabinet installation
• Tile installation
• Countertop installation
• Fixture installation
• You can expect a tub-to-shower conversion project to be completed in about a day. A bathtub that is already surrounded by walls can be replaced with a shower relatively easily. The installers may need to make some plumbing adjustments, but the drains and water lines should already be in place.
• The shower-to-tub conversion process is similar to that of converting a bathtub to a shower. Your contractor will remove the shower stall and install a bathtub in its place. These projects normally take one or two days. Most contractors use one-piece bathtub units made of either fiberglass or acrylic for conversion projects.
• Tub and shower conversion contractors often offer one-day bathroom “facelifts,” or cosmetic remodels. If your bathroom doesn’t have functional issues, a bathroom facelift might be the perfect solution.
• Most bathroom facelift projects include replacing plumbing fixtures, vanities, and shelving as well as a new coat of paint. New mirrors, lighting fixtures, and other accessories offer a nice finishing touch. These projects are usually done in days, compared to the multi-week timeline of a conventional remodeling project. The key difference is that a cosmetic refresh involves very minimal demolition and structural carpentry work, if any at all. Your contractor won’t be moving plumbing or electrical lines, so they won’t need to open walls. This helps keep the timeline as short as possible.
• The key to a successful tub and shower conversion or bathroom facelift is a reputable, experienced contractor. Interview and request bids from at least three companies so you’ll have enough information to make a good comparison. Try to resist being swayed by price alone. Your budget is certainly important, but the lowest bid may not result in the outcome you want.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
“For eight decades, Long Home Products has helped families enjoy safer, more beautiful homes. Quality products, outstanding craftsmanship, and dedication to customer satisfaction are at the core of our philosophy. We work with customers to make home improvement projects affordable with competitive rates and payment plans.” John
DePaola | CEO
Services Offered: Long Home Products specializes in tub-to-shower conversions, shower and bathtub replacement, and aging-in-place options. The company also offers asphalt shingle, metal, flat, luxury shingle, and designer roofs; double-hung, casement, awning, bow, and bay windows; entry, patio, and storm doors; and free estimates.
Warranty: Long Home offers a 50-year warranty on bathtubs, a 50-year transferable roof warranty, and a lifetime window warranty.
Company History: The company started in 1945.
Distinctions: The company is a CertainTeed SELECT Shingle Master.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: Repair services are not offered.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s)
MHIC-51346, 420222000021
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“We understand that your home is a reflection of your style and personality. That’s why we work closely with each client to bring their vision to life.” Reggie Danage | General Manager
Services Offered: Remodel Now is a design/build home remodeling firm that specializes in bathtub and shower conversions. The company’s additional services include kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling as well as window and door replacement. Financing is available, and estimates are free.
Warranty: All bathrooms are eligible for Schluter’s lifetime waterproof warranty. All Kohler products carry the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty. Comprehensive labor warranty coverage is offered on all projects.
Company History: The local company was established in 2001.
Employee Information: Uniformed employees wear shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Additional Information: Remodel Now works with products from brands such as Kohler, Moen, and Graf.
Minimum Job: Projects begin at $5,000.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-111358, 420323000130
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
■ Kitchen Saver
4th year as a Best Pick
• Cabinet refacing and updating
• Cabinet painting
• Cabinet repair
• Refacing the cabinets is a great way to update the look of your kitchen while saving some money on the whole project. For a cabinet refacing project to work well and have the result you want, you need to be happy with your kitchen’s existing layout. Refacing only addresses the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and hardware, so your cabinet boxes also need to be in good shape.
• A refacing project is a great time to update your cabinet storage. Roll-out shelves, cabinet and drawer dividers, and roll-away trash can storage, for example, can help you keep the kitchen tidy and organized.
• The first step in a cabinet refacing job is to remove the drawers, doors, and drawer fronts. If you’re changing the color and style of the cabinets, the crew will then apply a wood or laminate veneer to the cabinet boxes. The next step is to install the new cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Finally, new drawer pulls, door handles, and molding pull everything together.
• Full overlay cabinet doors completely cover the cabinet frame. Partial overlay cabinet doors reveal a small amount of the cabinet frame. Inset cabinet doors are mounted inside the cabinet box and require exposed hinges. Inset doors tend to be more expensive because of the skill level involved in their construction and installation.
• In most cases, full or partial overlay doors will be the easiest, most cost-effective option. If your original cabinets had inset doors, you might be able to use that door style again as long as the cabinet boxes don’t need major repair work.
• Staining and painting can dramatically change the look of cabinetry and can help protect the wood. Properly prepping the surface ensures that the paint or stain will adhere well.
• Hiring a qualified and experienced contractor is important to ensuring a job well done. Make sure your contractor is fully insured and has all staterequired licenses. Before you sign a contract for the job, make sure you understand the project’s scope and what the contractor will and won’t be able to do. Ask the company if they have a gallery of completed projects or a list of previous customers you can contact as references.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission.
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“We opened our doors in 1979, establishing the business on the core values of a family-run company. Since then, we’ve become known for our incredible craftsmanship and unwavering dedication to excellence, and we’ve amassed a long list of satisfied customers.” Brett
Cohen | Owner
Services Offered: Kitchen Saver provides a custom cabinet renewal process for kitchen makeovers. The company uses high-quality materials and premium finishing methods for every job completed. Kitchen Saver also offers free estimates.
Warranty: Kitchen Saver provides a ten-year warranty on labor and material.
Company History: The family-owned company was started in 1979 by Andy Snyder.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: Kitchen Saver does not offer flooring services.
Minimum Job: The company requires a project minimum of eight cabinet doors or drawer fronts.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-28743
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
14th year as a Best Pick
12th year as a Best Pick
• Carpet cleaning
• Upholstery cleaning
• Rug cleaning
• Carpet repair
• Stain removal
• Odor removal and control
• Fabric and fiber protection
• Drapery cleaning and freshening
• Hard-surface floor cleaning, buffing, and sealing
• Carpet cleaning frequency depends on several factors, including whether you have pets and how much foot traffic your carpet gets. In most cases, a professional carpet cleaning at least every nine to twelve months is a good idea.
• Between professional cleanings, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, place mats at your home’s entrances, and regularly change your HVAC filter. Also encourage family members and visitors to remove their shoes indoors.
• Pet accidents are most effectively cleaned by a professional carpet and upholstery cleaning company. As a short-term fix, you can use a
mixture of one part white vinegar to two parts water. Lightly spray the stain with the mixture and use a white colorfast towel to blot the area, being careful not to rub. Continue the process until the smell and stain are reduced.
• Make sure to mention all problem spots and stains you want cleaned so the contractor can both prepare appropriately and provide you with an accurate estimate. Some stains, especially old stains, require pretreatment to fully remove them. Doing a thorough walkthrough at the start of the job also helps avoid surprises regarding the cost at the end of the service.
• Prices that seem too good to be true usually are. Always read the fine print. Other deals will stretch the definition of carpet cleaning. A technician who rushes through the job may leave behind embedded dirt, stains, or excess moisture, which can lead to mold or faster re-soiling.
• In addition to routine carpet cleaning, consider optional treatments like stain protectors or deodorizing agents, which can help your carpets stay fresh for longer.
Neither the state of Maryland nor the District of Columbia issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
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“Superior Steam Cleaners is an owner-operated company that pays attention to detail and
services that are 100 percent guaranteed.” Shaun Pierce | Owner & Operator
Services Offered: Superior Steam Cleaners Inc. provides environmentally friendly carpet and upholstery cleaning, pet stain and odor removal, specialty spot removal, tile and grout cleaning and sealing, and vinyl floor cleaning. The company also applies stain and soil protectant and offers in-home area rug cleaning and 24-hour water-extraction services.
Warranty: Superior Steam Cleaners guarantees all services and will return to address any concerns. The company also offers a 21-day spot-return guarantee.
Company History: Superior Steam Cleaners was founded in 1992 by Randy Pierce and is owned and operated by Randy’s son Shaun and his family.
Employee Information: Technicians wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles.
Minimum Job: A $150 minimum is required.
Not
“At Excellent Carpet Cleaning, our mission is to enhance lives by making a difference one client at a time. Health, appearance, and preservation are the pillars of our service.” Tianna W. | Legacy Co-founder
Services Offered: Excellent Carpet Cleaning offers a comprehensive range of cleaning and preservation services, including carpet, rug, upholstery, drapery, air duct, hardwood, tile and grout, marble, and concrete cleaning. The company specializes in pet odor solutions, Oriental rug care, and green/allergy-friendly cleaning methods. ECC also provides carpet repairs, such as stretching and patching, as well as Oriental rug repairs.
Warranty: The company’s Excellent Guarantee is a 100 percent, no-risk satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: The company has been serving residential and commercial clients since 2006.
Distinctions: The company is certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and employs IICRC-certified technicians.
Additional Information: ECC provides complimentary consultations for all services and also offers water damage restoration.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified
14th year as a Best Pick
• Chimney and fireplace cleaning
• Chimney and fireplace repair and rebuilding
• Fireplace renovation and replacement
• Chimney safety inspections
• Flue relining
• Chimney cap installation and replacement
• Gas log installation and replacement
• Chimney and fireplace accessory installation
• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly to ensure that it operates efficiently and safely. Creosote buildup or blockages from nesting animals in your chimney can make it unhealthy and hazardous to operate.
• If the flue liner has gaps and openings between it and the chimney casing where creosote can accumulate, the liner must be repaired or removed and replaced. Sometimes a flue sealant can fix the problem, but if the issue is more severe, you’ll need a new liner. Older masonry chimneys typically have terra-cotta liners, which can fail or deteriorate over time. Replacement flue liners are usually made of stainless steel.
• The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) outlines three levels of chimney inspection.
Level one is the most basic. Level three is only necessary when serious hazards are suspected. If you’re the new owner of the house or if the chimney has been damaged, you’ll need a level two inspection. A level two inspection includes an inspection of every accessible part of the chimney, including its interior. Most technicians do this with a video scan.
• Limit dangerous creosote buildup by always making sure the flue is open when you build a fire in your fireplace. Only burn dry, seasoned wood. The moisture in fresh, damp logs will make a fire smolder. The smoke from a smoldering fire releases gases that contribute to creosote buildup. Split whole logs in halves or quarters to make sure the wood is dry both inside and outside.
• A chimney cap, usually made from stainless steel or copper, protects the chimney rain, critters, and other hazards. Uncapped chimneys offer warm, protected spaces to critters, but their nests pose a fire hazard and can cause unpleasant odors. Another advantage of the chimney cap is that it keeps water (and ice, in the winter) out of the flue. Chimney caps are also important for safety. They help prevent sparks and stray embers from igniting the roof or flying down into your yard.
Some services, including chimney repair and masonry, require a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission or the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. Companies that do not offer these services are not required to hold a trade license.
“We’ve spent 44 years building the perfect chimney company. Our masonry service is performed by real masons, not just chimney sweeps with trowels in their hands. We are not done until you are satisfied.” Mike
Pinto | Vice President
Services Offered: High’s Chimney Service is a full-service masonry company offering residential chimney and fireplace construction, repair, rebuilding, repointing, video scan inspections, cleaning, and lining. The company also offers wood stove installation, dryer vent cleaning, and air duct cleaning.
Company History: Gary High founded High’s Chimney in 1981 and continues to serve as president.
Distinctions: High’s Chimney has a National Fireplace Institute (NFI) certified Woodburning Specialist on staff.
Additional Information: The company carries Regency Fireplace Products.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-24687, 39200628
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“I love the Best Pick Reports guidebook. I use it once or twice a year.”
–Becky B. | Plano, TX
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ JES Foundation Repair
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Concrete leveling and raising for driveways, sidewalks, walkways, patios, steps, and foundations
• Polyurethane foam lifting
• Slabjacking
• Mudjacking
• Foundation stabilization and repair
• Piering
• Waterproofing and drainage systems
• Signs of sunken concrete issues include uneven concrete steps or sidewalks; cracked, bumpy, and uneven driveways or patios; cracking and sinking sections of slabs; soil erosion under concrete slabs; and repeated cracking of concrete slabs.
• Uneven exterior concrete slabs and steps should be repaired for many reasons, including convenience and safety. An even, level surface is important if you plan to build on the slab or lay tile or flooring.
• The process for raising concrete is fairly straightforward. First, the crew drills holes into the concrete slab. Then, they pump a mortarbased material or polyurethane foam into the voids underneath the slab. As the voids are filled,
the concrete slab rises until it’s level with the surrounding surface. The crew uses a concrete mixture to patch the drill holes and complete the process. Polyurethane foam materials typically cure faster and require smaller injection holes than mortar-based materials.
• Once the repair work is done, stay on top of maintenance so the problem doesn’t happen again. Have your gutters cleaned at least twice per year. Make sure that your home has an adequate number of downspouts. The downspouts also need to be long enough to carry water away from your house, patio, or walkway. If you have recurring erosion issues around concrete slabs, your yard might need to be regraded. Having a drainage system installed can also help. Contact a drainage specialist for advice.
• If you have more concrete work done in the future, ask the contractor how they plan to prep the ground. The ground beneath concrete is made up of different layers of soil. Each of these layers has its own properties, like density and moisture content. When these layers settle over the years, the concrete slabs above them can settle and crack. Before a concrete slab is poured, the supporting soil must be compacted to prevent washout and erosion. This should be done with a mechanical tamping machine for best results.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
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“JES Foundation Repair specializes in helping homeowners with foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and concrete lifting needs. With over 30 years of experience, JES provides high-quality home repair solutions and personalized service across Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, and North Carolina.” JES Foundation Repair Team
Services Offered: JES Foundation Repair are experts in resolving foundation repair issues. The company also performs concrete lifting, crawl space encapsulation, and basement waterproofing. Free estimates and financing options are offered.
Warranty: JES Foundation Repair offers nationally backed transferable warranties.
Company History: Jesse and Stella Waltz founded the company in 1993. JES Foundation Repair is part of Groundworks Companies.
Distinctions: In 2022, JES Foundation Repair was named Lynchburg Living Magazine’s Best Basement Waterproofing and Foundation Services Company, Roanoker Magazine’s Best Foundation Repair Company, Coastal Virginia Magazine’s Best Foundation Repair Company, and Virginia Media Best of Virginia Beach’s Local Home Improvement Contractor.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-50637, 410516000653
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Pick Reports recommends:
COMMON CRAWL SPACE ENCAPSULATION & REPAIR SERVICES
• Crawl space moisture and humidity management
• Crawl space insulation
• Crawl space encapsulation
• Structural repair for crawl spaces and basements
• Basement waterproofing services
• Basement moisture and humidity management
• Crawl spaces are vulnerable to many of the same problems as house foundations. Because crawl spaces are under the house, pest infestations are common. Crawl spaces often have serious moisture issues, which can cause mold and mildew growth. If moisture problems aren’t solved, they can cause the house’s floor joists to deteriorate.
• Crawl spaces are usually connected to a home’s foundation. This location is part of what makes crawl space moisture problems so concerning. Wood is more prone to rotting in damp spaces, so a damp crawl space can cause the floor joists of the house to rot. Common signs of deteriorating floor joists are sagging, creaking, or bouncy spots on the floor over the crawl space.
• Concrete columns or jacks work well to raise and stabilize sagging floors. Jacks can be adjusted as needed, to ensure ongoing support. If the floor joists are no longer structurally sound, they might need to be strengthened by adding a beam to an existing joist in a process called “sistering.”
• Once any moisture and structural issues are resolved, the crawl space can be encapsulated. This involves covering the floor and walls with a heavy plastic vapor barrier. The crew will seal off all vents and other areas where outside air could get in. Finally, the crew will install either a dehumidifier or crawl space vent fan. Even though the space is sealed, the air can still get quite humid. A dehumidifier pulls moisture out of the air in the crawl space. A vent fan brings conditioned air from your home’s HVAC system into the crawl space to combat humidity.
• Depending on the size and layout of your crawl space, you might be able to use it for storage once the encapsulation process is finished. It’s a good idea to check on the crawl space periodically to ensure the moisture management system is still working as designed.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
“Award-winning company founded on integrity and trust, backed by awards, accreditations, and hundreds of verified five-star customer reviews. Our team of professionals has a combined experience of 100+ years in our areas of expertise. We’re in business for you and because of you!” Andrew
Altman | CEO
Services Offered: Best Buy Waterproofing, LLC specializes in crawlspace repair, crack repair, structural repair, basement waterproofing and ventilation, and sump pumps. Additional services include roofing, siding, gutters, decks, basement remodeling, mold remediation, stamped concrete, driveways, and pathways. Estimates are free.
Warranty: Waterproofing and roofing jobs carry a lifetime warranty. The company honors manufacturer warranties on roof work.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was established in 2017 by Andrew Altman Sr.
Distinctions: Best Buy Waterproofing, LLC is a BHA member and a GAF Certified Contractor.
Employee Information: Uniformed employees drive marked vehicles and undergo background checks.
Services Not Offered: The company does not repair roofs or replace sump pumps it did not install.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-134853, 410524000824
Verified General Liability Insurance
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“Value Dry transforms wet, humid basements and musty crawl spaces into dry, healthy, livable environments by installing waterproofing and encapsulation systems in homes and businesses in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Delaware, and West Virginia. You can count on our promise of quality combined with professional workmanship.” James Ketterer | President
Services Offered: Value Dry addresses flooding and humidity in basements and crawl spaces by installing drainage and encapsulation systems that include sump pumps, battery backup sump pumps, French drains, and basement air ventilation systems. Egress windows and foundation repairs are also offered.
Warranty: Value Dry offers a lifetime transferable warranty against water seepage of treated areas.
Company History: The company was founded in 2003. Company president James Ketterer has over 25 years of industry experience.
Distinctions: Value Dry is a BHA member. James Ketterer is a BHA certified Waterproofing Specialist and Egress Specialist. The company is also an Indoor Air Quality Association member. Value Dry received a Secretary’s Citation from the MD Department of Commerce in recognition of 15 years of quality work.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-126996, 420312000110
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10th
CLEANING & REPAIR SERVICES
• Drain and sewer line cleaning
• Clog removal
• Rodding
• Hydro-jetting
• Water and sewer line repair and replacement
• Trenchless sewer line repair
• Video camera inspections
• Root removal
• Repiping
• Drain clogs are typically caused by food, hair, foreign objects, and grease. To avoid clogs, use drain strainers to catch the majority of debris. Do not dispose of grease in drains. Instead, pour it into a separate container that can be discarded or recycled. Additionally, so-called flushable wipes should not be flushed down the toilet.
• Hard water can cause buildup that clogs and corrodes your plumbing system. If your area has hard water, a whole-house water
softener system can help. Contact a plumbing professional to learn more about your options.
• While chemical drain cleaners can effectively remove clogs, they can also damage pipes over time and with repeated use. Try using a drain snake or other alternative drain cleaning methods first, and if the problem persists, call a professional. Drains that clog repeatedly can indicate larger problems with the plumbing system.
• If your sinks are draining very slowly or gurgling noises are coming from your toilets, call a drain and sewer cleaning professional. These are potential signs of a sewer system problem.
• If you own an older home built before the 1960s and 1970s, you may have sewer pipes made of clay tile. Clay-tile pipes are susceptible to tree root intrusion, and their lifespan is less than 50 years. Sewer pipes in homes constructed more recently are usually made of PVC.
MD companies are required to hold a Master Plumber License issued by the MD Board of Plumbing. DC companies are required to hold a Plumbing Contractor License issued by the DC Board of Industrial Trades.
“CroppMetcalfe was built on and continues to provide high-quality service, high-quality products, and complete customer satisfaction. Our most loyal customers have stayed with us for over 30 years. Our vision is to serve our customers with the goal of creating customers for life.” Tim Cropp | General Manager
Services Offered: CroppMetcalfe diagnoses, repairs, and cleans clogged bathtub, shower, and sink drains as well as main sewer lines. The company also specializes in video sewer inspection.
Company History: The regional, family-operated company was founded in 1979 by Mitchell Cropp. The company has three locations in the Washington, DC, area.
Distinctions: CroppMetcalfe is a member of the Plumbing and Mechanical Professionals of Virginia (PMPV) and the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC).
Employee Information: Technicians receive training, wear uniforms, and drive fully stocked vehicles.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 8486, PC1000456
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“My Plumber PLUS is committed to being the company of choice for all of our customers’ needs. We strive to exceed the expectations of our customers on every visit. We respond to our clients’ needs diligently, quickly, and honestly with the highest regard for customer satisfaction.” Wendell Presgrave | President
Services Offered: My Plumber PLUS provides drain cleaning services, camera inspections, hydro-jetting, and sewer and water line installation and repair. Additional services include plumbing, HVAC, and electrical.
Warranty: The company offers a variety of parts-and-labor warranties and honors manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: My Plumber PLUS was founded in 1982.
Distinctions: The company is a member of the Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) and the Prince William Chamber of Commerce and has been recognized for business excellence by the Chamber. President Wendell Presgrave has also been honored as Virginia’s PHCC Plumbing Contractor of the Year.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 92300
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
“Prime Plumbing is committed to being the local plumber everyone can trust and rely on. We’re willing and able to work on all plumbing systems, big or small, and always committed to delivering excellent customer service. Prime Plumbing will continue to do what is right for the customer, no matter what.” Tom Shrum | Owner
Services Offered: Prime Plumbing offers drain cleaning as well as plumbing services, including water, sewer, and gas piping; water heater, boiler, faucet, and fixture repair; well-water testing and treatment options; and septic pumping and repair. The company has an in-house excavation department that offers trenchless sewer and water service repair and replacement.
Warranty: Prime Plumbing offers a standard one-year parts-and-labor warranty with some exclusions, as well as a lifetime warranty on full sanitary sewer service replacements.
Company History: The local company was founded in 2012 by Tom Shrum.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 76114
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
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Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning
4th year as a Best Pick Dryer Vent Cleaning Educational Content
• Dryer vent cleaning
• Dryer vent inspection and repair
• Duct cleaning, sanitization, and sealing
• Duct leakage testing and repair
• The National Fire Protection Association reports that dryers caused almost 14,000 house fires per year between 2014 and 2018. About onethird of the fires were caused by lint buildup in the dryer vent. The duct that runs from the dryer to the outside of your house is out of sight, which makes it difficult to know if it needs to be cleaned.
• Be mindful of signs that your dryer vent is clogged. Are clothes taking longer than normal to dry? Is the dryer extremely hot at the end of a cycle? Do your clothes smell singed or burned? Do you notice a burning odor in your laundry room? These are all signs that something is restricting airflow in the dryer vent.
• A dryer that gets too hot or gives off a burning odor over the course of a cycle is overheating. This is dangerous, so don’t use the dryer until it has been cleaned and inspected by a professional. Lint is very flammable, and the heat from an overheated dryer can ignite it.
• It’s a good idea to have your dryer vent professionally cleaned once or twice per year. In the meantime, always clean the dryer’s lint filter before and after every load of laundry. Make sure the dryer has plenty of space around it for airflow. Check the dryer vent exhaust on the outside of your house for signs of a blockage. You might see lint particles on the ground, for instance. Bird feathers, droppings, and nesting materials around the vent or on the ground beneath it are signs that birds might have taken up residence in the vent.
• During a typical service visit, the technician will inspect and clean the dryer vent. They will also clean the lint trap and booster fan, if needed. Some dryer vent cleaning companies also offer mechanical inspections of the vent system. Some provide repair and installation services.
• Any blockage in a dryer vent poses an increased fire hazard. This is because lint particles are flammable when they accumulate. Dryer vents are often made from flexible foil or plastic material that can kink or sag. These bends and creases in the duct line collect flammable lint, which adds to the airflow problem. A sagging duct can also collect condensation and leak or foster a mold problem. If you have a flexible dryer vent, replace it with a rigid version.
Neither the state of Maryland nor the District of Columbia issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
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“For 60 years, Ned Stevens has been cleaning, installing, and repairing rain gutters for our great customers. We are open 7 days a week, and we work hard to ensure quality and safety while always making sure the customer is happy.”
Ned Stevens | Founder
Services Offered: Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning provides gutter cleaning, new gutter installation, and gutter repair as well as complete power washing services, window cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, underground drain snaking, chimney cap installation, and full mosquito and tick control services. The company offers services 7 days a week and free estimates.
Warranty: All work is 100 percent guaranteed.
Company History: Ned Stevens started the company in 1965.
Employee Information: All employees receive DMV background checks, undergo extensive training in both a classroom and the field, and are subject to daily random quality-control inspections. All workers are Ned Stevens employees and are covered by full workers’ compensation and liability insurance.
Minimum Job: Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning requires a $110 job minimum.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
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“The
• Duct cleaning
• Duct sanitization
• Duct leakage testing and repairs
• Duct sealing, insulation, and replacement
• Indoor air quality solutions
• Dryer vent cleaning and repair
• HVAC system component cleaning
• Filtration evaluation and upgrades
• Duct cleaning frequency depends on your needs and preferences. If your air duct supply and return vents look dirty, the inside of the system is probably dirty too. Checking your ductwork periodically for particulate buildup is a good idea, especially if anyone in the home has asthma or allergies.
• Home remodeling projects often produce a lot of dust and debris. It’s a good idea to schedule duct cleaning after a home renovation project. Everyday activities bring dust into the house, too, whether you’re opening the front door or turning on the air conditioning. Other factors, like pet hair, cigarette smoke, and water damage, can all cause more rapid buildup of dust and dirt in the ductwork.
• Duct cleaning involves cleaning your home’s ductwork as well as your entire HVAC system. This includes the supply and return ducts and registers, grills and diffusers, heat exchangers, heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans, fan motor and housing, and the air handler unit housing.
• If mold is found in your ducts and HVAC system, hire a pro to clean the entire system and ductwork to remove the mold and ensure it doesn’t return.
• Beware of duct cleaners who only use ordinary household tools. Household vacuum cleaners and residential-use air compressor guns won’t get good results. In fact, these types of tools will likely scatter dust and debris all over your house. Check that the company’s methods meet industry standards. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) is a great resource for current industry information.
Neither the state of Maryland nor the District of Columbia issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
“CroppMetcalfe was built on and continues to provide high-quality service, high-quality products, and complete customer satisfaction. Our most loyal customers have stayed with us for over 30 years. Our vision is to serve our customers with the goal of creating customers for life.” Tim Cropp | General Manager
Services Offered: CroppMetcalfe offers duct cleaning services as well as whole-home comfort checks and energy audits, which evaluate a home’s energy efficiency.
Company History: CroppMetcalfe was founded in 1979 by Mitchell Cropp and has remained a regional, family-operated company ever since. The company has three locations in the Washington, DC, area.
Distinctions: CroppMetcalfe is a certified member of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA). The company is also accredited by the Building Performance Institute (BPI).
Employee Information: Technicians are rigorously trained, wear uniforms, and drive fully stocked vehicles.
4.8 out of 5
Not Required
“From your initial phone call to the completion of your project, we will show you why The Best Air Quality and Restoration is the environmental contractor of choice for so many home and business owners in Washington, Baltimore, Maryland, and the surrounding areas.” Valid Salikhov | Manager
Services Offered: The Best Air Quality and Restoration provides duct cleaning, duct sanitization, dryer vent cleaning, and UV air purifier installation for residential and commercial customers.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 2009.
Employee Information: Employees wear shoe covers and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Not Required Verified
Exempt
“Since 2006, Air Duct Pros, Inc., has provided residential air duct and dryer vent cleaning
homeowners in Maryland. We are a small, family-owned-and-operated corporation, and we offer
hidden fees.” Melissa Loverde | Co-owner & CFO
Services Offered: Air Duct Pros, Inc., provides duct cleaning, duct sanitization, dryer vent cleaning, and UV air purifier installation for residential customers.
Warranty: The company offers a 30-day guarantee on all work.
Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 2006 by Duane and Melissa Loverde. The crew is led by Duane, and Melissa manages the company’s administrative activities.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing. Air Duct Pros, Inc. has one crew, which is led by owner Duane Loverde.
Services Not Offered: The company does not clean carpets or chimneys or repair HVAC systems.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
■
14th year as a Best Pick
■
10th year as a Best Pick
■
7th year as a Best Pick
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7th year as a Best Pick ■
5th year as a Best Pick
• Electrical equipment installation, replacement, and repair
• Troubleshooting
• Maintenance
• Whole-house surge protection
• Outlet, switch, and fan installation
• Lighting installation
• Electrical panel replacements and upgrades
• Safety inspections
• Always call a licensed and insured professional electrician to perform electrical repairs. Electrical work requires specialized knowledge and tools to avoid injury to yourself or damage to your home. Professional electricians will ensure that the work they do is done safely and to code.
• If you own an older home that hasn’t been recently updated, have an electrician do a safety inspection. The electrical system may not be properly grounded, for instance, or you may need a larger main service panel.
• If breakers trip frequently, outlets around the house emit a burning odor or make strange noises, or light fixtures flicker at random, call an electrician to take a look for underlying issues.
• The US Fire Administration recommends testing your smoke detectors once a month, replacing the batteries at least once a year, and replacing smoke detector units every ten years or when they no longer function when tested. For the best protection, have an electrician install hardwired smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
MD companies are required to hold a Master Electrician License issued by the MD Board of Master Electricians. DC companies are required to hold an Electrical Contractor License issued by the DC Board of Industrial Trades.
“Kolb Electric has been a family-owned-and-operated company serving our customers locally for 100 years. Our mission is to provide the best in quality and customer satisfaction on all jobs, big or small, from our family to yours.”
Lauren Kolb | Director of Administration
Services Offered: Kolb Electric, Inc., is a full-service electrical contractor providing services that include troubleshooting, circuit breaker replacement, panel upgrades, and surge protection. The company also offers installation of ceiling and attic fans, outdoor lighting, light switches, dimmers, and light fixtures.
Warranty: Kolb Electric guarantees all parts and labor.
Company History: The company was founded in 1925 by Walter Kolb. Kolb Electric is now a fourth-generation, family-owned-and-operated business presided over by Paul Kolb and Richard Kolb Jr.
Employee Information: The company conducts drug tests and background checks and supports the continuing education of employees. Paul Kolb and Richard Kolb Jr. are Master Electricians.
4.6 out of 5
Trade License(s) 3164,
“At Bailey & Shipp Electric, customers still come first. From the time you call to schedule your appointment, you can count on the fact that you are our top priority. We believe in getting the job done correctly the first time and providing you with fair and honest service that we stand behind 100 percent.” Richard Bailey & Jonathan Shipp | Managing Partners
Services Offered: Bailey & Shipp Electric is a full-service electrical company specializing in repairs, service, and maintenance for residential and commercial customers. Services include troubleshooting, panel replacement, whole-house surge protection, and installation of landscape and recessed lighting, dimmers, outlets, GFCIs, hot tubs, and pools.
Warranty: The company guarantees all parts and labor.
Company History: Bailey & Shipp Electric was founded in 2003.
Distinctions: Managing Partners Richard Bailey and Jonathan Shipp are Master Electricians. Bailey & Shipp Electric is also a Select Generac dealer.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo drug testing and background checks. The company states that it supports the continued education of employees.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 8822, ECC2002344
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified
“We are here to help you. Whether you have an immediate issue that needs to be repaired today or want something installed, we can take care of it for you. Each of our electricians is consistently trained and has years of experience. We take pride in our work and in ensuring everything is perfect for you and your family.” Christopher Haas | Owner
Services Offered: Haas and Sons Electric offers electrical services, such as panel replacements, troubleshooting, inspection correction, EV charging stations, and home remodeling services to residential customers. The company installs ceiling fans, bathroom exhaust fans, lighting and fixtures, and specialty lighting.
Warranty: Extended warranties are available on top of the one-year limited warranty.
Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 2016.
Distinctions: Haas and Sons Electric is a member of the Pasadena Business Association and the North Arundel Chamber of Commerce.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: The company does not service or install solar, security, or data systems.
Rating:
“My Plumber PLUS is committed to being the company of choice for all of our customers’ needs. We strive to exceed the expectations of our customers on every visit. We respond to our clients’ needs diligently, quickly, and honestly with the highest regard for customer satisfaction.” Wendell Presgrave | President
Services Offered: My Plumber PLUS provides a wide variety of residential and commercial electrical repair and installation services. Additional services include plumbing, HVAC, rooter and drain, bathroom remodeling, and duct cleaning.
Warranty: The company offers a variety of parts-and-labor warranties and honors manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: My Plumber PLUS was founded in 1982.
Distinctions: The company is a member of the Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) and the Prince William Chamber of Commerce and was named a Business Excellence award nominee by the Chamber. Founder Wendell Presgrave was Virginia’s PHCC Plumbing Contractor of the Year in 2015.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 13071 Verified
“CroppMetcalfe was built on and continues to provide high-quality service, high-quality products, and complete customer satisfaction. Our most loyal customers have stayed with us for over 30 years. Our vision is to serve our customers with the goal of creating customers for life.” Tim Cropp | General Manager
Services Offered: CroppMetcalfe offers residential and commercial electrical services including electrical inspections, outlet repair and replacement, breaker repair, and electrical panel upgrades. The company also installs ceiling fans, chandeliers, standby generators, surge protectors, and light fixtures.
Company History: CroppMetcalfe was founded in 1979 by Mitchell Cropp and has remained a regional, family-operated company ever since. The company has three locations in the Washington, DC, area.
Distinctions: CroppMetcalfe is a certified member of NADCA and is accredited by the Building Performance Institute (BPI). The company is a winner of multiple Carrier President’s Awards and was recognized as a 2018 National Contractor of the Year by the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC).
Employee Information: Technicians are rigorously trained, wear uniforms, and drive fully stocked vehicles.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 14034, ECC2002359
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
Before extreme weather seasons, have your HVAC, roof, and exterior checked by professionals. Preventative maintenance is always more cost-effective than emergency repairs.
■ Ultimate Flooring Design Center
14th year as a Best Pick
■ Excellent Flooring & Painting
1st year as a Best Pick
• Conventional and engineered hardwood flooring
• Tile, stone, luxury vinyl, and laminate flooring
• Carpet installation and stretching
• Flooring installation and repair
• Hardwood sanding and refinishing
• Stairway updates
• Flooring sales and installation
• Area rug sales, repair, and refurbishing
• If you can, take flooring samples home in as large a size as possible. Doing so lets you see what your options look like in your house, with your decor, and under a variety of lighting conditions. This makes the decision-making process easier.
• A damaged subfloor can compromise the flooring material installed over it. It is important to fix any subfloor issues before installing new flooring to avoid problems in the future and to ensure the flooring lasts a long time. In some cases, this involves replacing sections of subflooring.
• Vinyl flooring is a good option for areas prone to getting wet, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, because it is low maintenance and resistant to mold and mildew. Tile, stone, and
grout need to be resealed approximately every four years but are otherwise low maintenance. Porcelain tile is generally considered a better choice for flooring in high-traffic areas because of its durability. Ceramic tile is softer and more porous.
• Flooring can have a big impact on a home’s resale value. Consider your return on investment when choosing new flooring, as well as your lifestyle and the level of care required for different flooring types.
• Reduce wear on hardwood floors with floor mats and rugs. Also use felt protectors or furniture coasters on furniture legs to prevent dents and scratches. Blinds and curtains can help prevent or reduce fading from the sun over time.
• Some carpet options have a number between one and five on their label. This is the carpet performance rating. On a scale of one to five, it denotes the carpet’s expected durability. The higher the number, the more durable the carpet. A rating of two to four is average. Carpets rated below two are best for low-traffic rooms.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. Scan for additional educational content
“Style, function, durability, and excellent service; Ultimate Flooring Design Center offers the highest-quality flooring to the greater metropolitan area. Our team has over 35 years of experience and is dedicated to providing our clients with absolute excellence.” David Harris | Owner
Services Offered: Ultimate Flooring Design Center is a local flooring company offering sales and installation of a wide variety of carpet, tile, hardwood, laminate, bamboo, cork, and vinyl options for residential and commercial customers. The company also provides sanding and finishing of hardwood floors, floor leveling, and moisture mitigation.
Warranty: Ultimate Flooring Design Center guarantees flooring installations for the life of the product.
Company History: Ultimate Flooring is a family-owned-and-operated company.
Additional Information: The company carries flooring products by Shaw, Armstrong, Mohawk, Mannington, Fausfloor, American Olean, Marazzi, Daltile, Wicanders, Appalachian, Fabrica, LM, Mirage, Mercier, Bruce, IndusParquet, Wellmade, Stanton, and Happy Floors.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-127923
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Pick Guaranteed
“At Excellent Flooring & Painting, our mission is to transform and elevate the appearance of your home or business, making a lasting difference one client at a time.” Tianna W. | Legacy Co-founder
Services Offered: Excellent Flooring & Painting provides a wide variety of flooring options, including carpet, laminate, hardwood, luxury vinyl tile, and ceramic/porcelain tile. The company also offers floor restoration services, such as hardwood refinishing and marble and concrete restoration with color seal options. Excellent Flooring & Painting’s intake process is designed to be seamless and does not require the client to leave the home or business.
Warranty: The company’s Excellent Guarantee is a 100 percent no-risk satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: The company has been serving residential and commercial clients since 2006.
Additional Information: Excellent Flooring & Painting also offers painting services. The company is a one-stop-shop for flooring and painting needs, from interior painting to flooring installation, cleaning, maintenance, and restoration. Consultations are complimentary.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-154339
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
9th year as a Best Pick ■
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Foundation repair
• Pier systems
• Wall anchor systems
• Crawl space repair and encapsulation
• Basement waterproofing
• Moisture control service
• Foundation drainage systems
• Concrete lifting and leveling
• Signs of foundation damage include vertical and horizontal cracks in foundation walls, drywall cracks near doors and windows, unlevel floors, windows or doors sticking, cracks in exterior brick veneer, settled or uneven basement floors, and cracks in garage slabs.
• The following conditions can cause foundations to settle, crack, and bow: extremely dry weather, which causes the soil to shrink and contract; and wet weather, which causes the soil to expand and create pressure against the
foundation walls. Layers of soil can also settle over the years. This settling process can cause foundation cracks. Slab foundations that are poured on loose soil are prone to problems.
• A leaking, cracked, or otherwise compromised foundation will devalue your home. If your home shows signs of cracking, settling, or leaking, your best course of action will be to repair the foundation to protect the value of your house.
• Foundation inspections should include a digital elevation survey and a discussion of potential causes of the foundation problems.
• Discuss preventative measures such as root barriers, proper drainage and grading, and moisture maintenance with your contractor. Without a plan for ongoing maintenance, foundation problems can return.
MD
“JES Foundation Repair specializes in helping homeowners with foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and concrete lifting needs. With 32 years of experience, JES provides high-quality home repair solutions and personalized service across Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, and North Carolina.” JES Foundation Repair Team
Services Offered: JES Foundation Repair are experts in resolving foundation repair issues. The company also performs concrete lifting, crawl space encapsulation, and basement waterproofing. Free estimates and financing options are offered.
Warranty: JES Foundation Repair offers nationally backed transferable warranties.
Company History: Jesse and Stella Waltz founded the company in 1993. JES Foundation Repair is part of Groundworks Companies.
Distinctions: In 2022, JES Foundation Repair was named Lynchburg Living Magazine’s Best Basement Waterproofing and Foundation Services Company, Roanoker Magazine’s Best Foundation Repair Company, Coastal Virginia Magazine’s Best Foundation Repair Company, and Virginia Media Best of Virginia Beach’s Local Home Improvement Contractor.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s)
410516000653
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
“We are a family-operated, veteran-owned company with extensive experience in structural repair and water management issues. Since 1987, we have provided excellent customer service from start to finish on every job. Allmaster Home Services offers foundation repair services to residential customers.” Nicholas Locantore | Executive Vice President
Services Offered: Allmaster Home Services specializes in foundation repair services for residential customers.
Warranty: The company offers structural warranties based on product and a limited lifetime warranty on waterproofing.
Company History: Allmaster Home Services has been serving the local residential community since 1987. The company is veteran owned and family run. Company president John Locantore has over 45 years of experience in the construction and home improvement industry. His sons and other key personnel also have decades of experience in the industry.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and undergo background checks.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-121436
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick
“We have proudly served the Baltimore and Washington metropolitan areas for over 35 years. Our goal is to create healthy, clean, and dry basements that all homeowners can utilize as valuable living space.”
Richard Carpenter | President
Services Offered: AA Action Waterproofing Inc. specializes in a variety of below-ground basement waterproofing and structural issues. The company offers custom solutions for foundation issues. AA Action also provides drain tile systems, sump pumps, exterior waterproofing, belowgrade basement waterproofing, excavation, wall sealants, wall pins, carbon fiber straps, steel I-beams, and underpinning as well as total foundation and stairwell wall rebuilding. The company offers interest-free financing on approved credit.
Warranty: AA Action provides lifetime transferable warranties on most services.
Company History: AA Action Waterproofing was established in 1987.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer above-ground foundation repair solutions or waterproofing.
70108794
Guaranteed
“Since 1958, ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing has been providing five-star customer experiences in basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, foundation repair, and mold removal. Our money-back guarantee and life-of-thestructure warranty, unique in the industry, offer the ultimate protection to homeowners.”
Todd Prosan | President
Services Offered: ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing specializes in foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and mold removal. The company also provides free estimates.
Warranty: A life-of-the-structure warranty is offered in addition to guaranteed results. Warranty is subject to terms and conditions.
Company History: The local and regional, family-owned company was founded in 1958.
Distinctions: ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing was rated on the 2022 Washington Post list of Top Workplaces and the 2022 Inc. 5000 list of Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer poured concrete foundations; crawl space cleanouts; or crawl space-to-basement conversions.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Verified
Verified
Verified
7th year as a
2nd year as a Best Pick
• Garage door installation, replacement, and repair
• Routine garage door maintenance
• Garage door opener installation, repair, replacement, and programming
• Repair and replacement of springs, rollers, and cables
• New garage door sales and installation
• If nothing happens when you push the button for the garage door opener, first make sure the opener has power. The opener is usually plugged into a normal electrical outlet. Try plugging something else into the outlet to see if it’s working. If the outlet doesn’t have power, check the circuit breakers in the main service panel. If a breaker is flipped, try resetting it before calling a professional for help.
• Regular maintenance is key to a properly and safely operating garage door. On a regular basis, visually inspect the garage door system, including the springs, cables, pulleys, rollers, and hardware for signs of damage or wear.
• Steel is one of the most popular materials for garage doors. Other options include wood, aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl. Vinyl is gaining popularity because of its durability and UV resistance. Vinyl garage doors are less likely to fade from sun exposure.
• A garage door spring can cause serious injury and damage when it breaks. If your garage door has a torsion spring system, the springs are covered to prevent them from causing any harm if they break. Extension springs are attached to safety cables. As long as they’re properly installed, the safety cables will control the springs if they fail. This safety measure prevents damage and injury. If your garage door has extension springs but not safety cables, have a professional install them right away.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
“At ABC Garage Doors & Repair, we take pride in the quality and professionalism of our experienced service, installation, and sales teams. We provide a large array of products from the industry’s leading manufacturers. We offer quick, efficient repairs and replacements and friendly customer service with same-day service.” ABC Garage Doors & Repair Staff
Services Offered: ABC Garage Doors & Repair provides residential and commercial garage door installation and repair services in addition to 24/7 emergency repair services for all types of garage doors. ABC Garage Doors & Repair also offers garage floor coating services and garage organization systems.
Warranty: The company offers a one-year parts-and-labor warranty for all products and services.
Company History: The company was started in 2010. Distinctions: The company is an Amarr Dealer.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing. The company states that each technician has at least ten years of industry experience.
Additional Information: ABC Garage Doors & Repair carries products by many brands, including Amarr, C.H.I., Chamberlain, Clopay, Craftsman, Garaga, General Doors, Genie, LiftMaster, and Wayne Dalton.
“Serving residential and commercial locations, our highly trained, experienced, and professional technicians are able to work on any type of garage door and are committed to doing so in a reliable, professional, and efficient manner. Your garage door and your satisfaction are our top priority.” Sergey Pokrasov | Owner
Services Offered: STI Garage Door offers residential and commercial garage door installation and repair services. The company also installs and repairs garage door openers. STI Garage Door provides 24/7 emergency service.
Warranty: The company offers a 30-day guarantee on service calls and a 1-year workmanship warranty on new installations.
Company History: STI Garage Door was founded by Sergey Pokrasov in 2016 and is a local, family-owned-and-operated company.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Additional Information: STI Garage Door sells and services most brands of garage doors and openers, including Amarr, Clopay, LiftMaster, Wayne Dalton, Genie, Craftsman, and Chamberlain.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-135667, 420221000116
Verified General Liability Insurance
Workers’ Comp Exempt
“Our team of experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate professionals will work with you to get your garage door to operate smoothly and to complement your home. Our goal is to provide unsurpassed excellence in all garage door aspects. We strive for complete customer satisfaction from start to finish on every job.” Ben
Moore | Owner
Services Offered: Horizon Garage Doors sells, repairs and installs all garage doors, garage door openers, gates, and gate operators. The company also repairs broken springs, broken cables, and off-track garage doors and replaces damaged door sections. Horizon Garage Doors provides 24/7 emergency services.
Warranty: The company offers a two-year warranty on all products and services as well as a three-year warranty on new garage door installations. Horizon guarantees 100 percent customer satisfaction.
Company History: The company was started in 2008.
Distinctions: Horizon is an Amarr Authorized Dealer.
Employee Information: All technicians are employees of Horizon Garage Doors. The company does not hire subcontractors.
Additional Information: The company provides products by Amarr, Clopay, Wayne Dalton, C.H.I., Genie, LiftMaster, Chamberlain, Craftsman, and more.
of 5
General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
“Thank you to all of our customers who chose to ‘Go With the Pros at Door Pro America!’ We’re your reliable source for top-quality garage door and opener repair, installation, and maintenance agreements. We have served the community since 1971 and are proud to have so many long-standing customers and employees on our team.” Larry Notto | President
Services Offered: Door Pro America specializes in garage door and opener tune-ups, repair, and installation for residential customers. Financing is available, and the company also offers maintenance agreements.
Warranty: The company offers a one-year labor warranty. Parts and door warranties vary by manufacturer.
Company History: The locally operated company was established in 1971.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Additional Information: Door Pro America works with products from major brands, including Amarr, Clopay, Wayne Dalton, Everite, Carriage House, Elegant Garage Door, and LiftMaster.
Minimum Job: New garage door estimates are free. Repair estimates have a $39 service fee, which is included with most accepted repairs.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-113538, 420219000065
Verified
Verified Workers’ Comp
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14th year as
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14th year as a
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6th
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Gutter installation and replacement
• Gutter guard installation
• Downspout installation and replacement
• Specialty accessories and product options, such as ice reduction systems for gutters, downspout extenders, rain chains, splash blocks, and extended gutter and downspout diameter options
• Gutter guards and covers reduce the amount of debris that collects in your gutters through the seasons. Gutter guard and cover systems are typically made of a very fine metal mesh or a piece of curved, painted metal. The cover is installed over the top of the gutter trough and keeps out leaves, shingle grit, and other debris. Only rainwater enters the gutter and downspout.
• Correct fastener spacing and slope are key to a successful gutter installation job. Gutters should slope slightly downward toward a downspout. If the degree of slope is too high, the gutter will slant too much and overflow. If the degree of slope is too low, water won’t move through the gutter very well. Fasteners should be placed relatively close together. The back of the gutter should be installed behind existing roof flashing to prevent leaks.
• Gutters are typically sold in five-inch or sixinch sizes. Six-inch gutter troughs are usually required around steep roofs to minimize overflow. Downspouts are usually two inches deep by three inches wide or three inches deep by four inches wide. Larger downspouts drain quickly and don’t clog easily.
MD
“We supply our customers with top-level service, excellent products, professional crews, and quality workmanship, as their recommendations and referrals provide us with a network of new customers.”
Joseph Jones & Jeffrey Thomas | President & Vice President
Services Offered: Metropolitan Exteriors, Inc., offers residential and commercial installation and repair of aluminum, vinyl, and copper gutters as well as downspouts and most major brands of gutter guards. The company also replaces windows and doors and installs roofing, siding, trim, and soffit for residential and commercial properties.
Warranty: Metropolitan Exteriors honors manufacturers’ warranties and offers a warranty on labor.
Company History: Vice President Jeffrey Thomas founded Metropolitan Exteriors in 1988. He currently spearheads Metropolitan’s customer relations. The company is local and family owned, with Jeffrey’s stepbrother Joseph Jones serving as the president.
Distinctions: Jeffrey Thomas is certified as an EPA Lead Renovator.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-32699, 420212000040
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick
“Our goal is 100 percent total customer satisfaction. We eliminate the middleman by manufacturing the gutter protection system ourselves. We are completely accountable to our customers from initial call to project completion, and it’s backed by 45 years in business and our No-Hassle Warranty and Buyer Protection Guarantee.” Rick Wuest | President
Services Offered: Thompson Creek offers clog-free gutter systems, siding, and replacement windows, doors, and roofing. The company custom designs, builds, and installs its own seamless gutter system, which include gutter hoods that filter leaves and debris. The seamless gutter trough is designed to not clog or pull away from the home.
Warranty: The No-Hassle Warranty and Buyer Protection Guarantee protects homeowners for up to 50 years.
Company History: The company was started in 1980.
Additional Information: Thompson Creek windows and gutters are manufactured in their own local factory in Maryland. According to Thompson Creek, their seamless gutter system prevents leaks and is guaranteed never to clog or pull away from the home.
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s)
420213000015
Verified
Verified
“We’ve been educating homeowners about the dangers of clogged gutters for 44 years. Misdirected rainwater can lead to costly damages, and Gutter Helmet not only keeps debris out but also keeps your gutters flowing freely. We back our proven system with a triple-lifetime guarantee and best-in-class customer support.” Del
Thebaud |
President & Owner
Services Offered: Gutter Helmet by Lednor Home Solutions installs Gutter Helmet, a gutter protection and guard system, as well as seamless gutters. The company offers Helmet Heat, a self-regulating, heated panel system for roofs and gutters, and replaces roofs.
Warranty: The Gutter Helmet system is backed by a transferable, manufacturer-backed, triple-lifetime product guarantee.
Company History: The company started in 1981.
Distinctions: Gutter Helmet was ranked first on Forbes Homes’ list of The Best Gutter Guards of 2023 and ranked highly on Qualified Remodeler’s National Top 500 list.
Additional Information: Gutter Helmet is made in America from 99 percent recycled aluminum and can be installed over existing gutters. It is designed to control the flow of rainwater while keeping debris out, and it reinforces the gutters against snow and ice.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-48622 Verified
“We strive to deliver a legendary, hassle-free customer experience by providing you with a superior product that gives you peace of mind, protects your home, and keeps you off of ladders. We educate homeowners on different gutter protection options and why Leafguard provides superior results.” Jason Steingart | Marketing Director
Services Offered: Leafguard Maryland installs the patented Leafguard gutter system for residential customers.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime clog-free guarantee* on the Leafguard gutter system.
*Guaranteed not to clog for as long as you own your home, or the company will clean the gutters for free.
Company History: Leafguard Maryland’s parent company, Englert, Inc., has provided gutter installation services since 1966.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles and undergo background checks.
Additional Information: The Leafguard gutter system is a continuous, seamless, one-piece design that allows water into the gutter while keeping out leaves, pine needles, and other debris. Leafguard gutters and downspouts come in a variety of colors.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified
Verified
Verified
“American Home Contractors has been in business for over 35 years, providing exterior services and upgrades to Maryland, Washington D.C., and Northern Virginia homes. American Home prides itself in customer satisfaction and guarantees to do the best job possible when remodeling your home.”
Services Offered: American Home Contractors provides exterior household services, including gutter, roofing, window, entry door, and siding installation and replacement. Additionally, the company installs solar roofing, solar panels, home battery backups, and EV chargers.
Warranty: The company offers ten-year to lifetime warranties on labor and materials.
Company History: American Home Contractors was established in 1986.
Distinctions: American Home Contractors is a Super Service Award winner, A+ Rated and Accredited with the BBB, and an Xtreme Gutter Guards certified installer. The company has over 8,000 online reviews.
Additional Information: The company works with products by Tesla, GAF, IKO, James Hardie, Mastic by Ply Gem, Alside, Pella, ProVia, Andersen, Marvin, Sunrise, and Interstate.
Steve Lozinsky | Brand President
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-31337, 410522000809
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“I have used Best Pick Reports a couple of times, and everyone has been great.” –Allan B. | Ashburn, VA
• Gutter cleaning
• Downspout cleaning
• Gutter repairs
• Gutter installation
• Roof cleaning
• Pressure washing
• Gutters and downspouts carry water away from your house, protecting the soil, foundation, roof, and siding. When gutters are clogged, the runoff over the gutters can erode the soil around the foundation and cause foundation and waterproofing problems.
• Don’t wait until your gutters overflow to have them cleaned. Gutters that overflow consistently for an extended period of time can lead to expensive issues, like wood rot, foundation problems, and even insect infestations and termite damage.
• Gutter cleaning should be done a minimum of twice a year. The general rule of thumb is to have the gutters cleaned in the late spring and late fall, after trees have budded out or lost all their leaves. If you have lots of trees around your house, you
may need to have your gutters cleaned on a quarterly basis to keep them clear and working well.
• Gutter covers can reduce the amount of debris that collects in your gutters through the seasons. A gutter cover is a smooth piece of curved, painted metal that goes over the top of the gutter to keep out leaves and other debris. When it rains, water flows around and underneath the cover and into the gutter. Leaves and other debris fall to the ground. Gutter covers are sometimes less effective at very steep sections of the roof. The large amount of water that comes down the roof at these spots can still overshoot the gutters. You may need to have diverters installed to help with this. Keep in mind that adding a gutter cover system to your home doesn’t mean that your gutters are now completely maintenance-free. They should still be inspected periodically to make sure they aren’t leaking or deteriorating.
• For traditionally seasonal businesses like gutter cleaning, try to schedule your services during the slower times of year. You will likely have an easier time scheduling your preferred date and time.
Neither the state of Maryland nor the District of Columbia issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
“For 60 years, Ned Stevens has been cleaning, installing, and repairing rain gutters for our great customers. We are open 7 days a week, and we work hard to ensure quality and safety while always making sure the customer is happy.”
Ned Stevens | Founder
Services Offered: Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning provides gutter cleaning, new gutter installation, and gutter repair as well as complete power washing services, window cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, underground drain snaking, chimney cap installation, and full mosquito and tick control services. The company offers services 7 days a week and free estimates.
Warranty: All work is 100 percent guaranteed.
Company History: Ned Stevens started the company in 1965.
Employee Information: All employees receive DMV background checks, undergo extensive training in both a classroom and the field, and are subject to daily random quality-control inspections. All workers are Ned Stevens employees and are covered by full workers’ compensation and liability insurance.
Minimum Job: Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning requires a $110 job minimum.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required Verified
Verified
“GutterMaid has provided gutter services to the MD & Northern VA area for over a decade; our mission is simple: provide the best customer service while performing high-quality work. Our expert gutter cleaning service technicians ensure that our clients receive a comprehensive gutter cleaning service that is performed safely and efficiently.” GutterMaid Team
Services Offered: GutterMaid provides gutter cleaning, repair, and installation. The company also offers window cleaning, power washing, dryer vent cleaning, and free estimates.
Warranty: GutterMaid offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee and a 30-day no-clog guarantee.
Company History: GutterMaid was started in 2013.
Additional Information: GutterMaid is powered by Ned Stevens.
4.6 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified Workers’ Comp
• Many small and medium home improvement jobs
• Carpentry, wood rot repair, drywall repair, and trim repair
• Painting
• Door and window installation and repair
• Caulking and weather stripping
• Lock sets
• Floor and wall tile installation and repair
• Grout installation and repair
• Fixture replacement and installation
• Aging-in-place and accessibility modifications
• Before reaching out to a handyman company, outline what you want done and when it needs to be completed. This information will help the company give you an accurate estimate.
• Some handyman contractors charge jobs at an hourly rate, and some will quote a flat, per-project price. If you have several smaller projects that need to be taken care of, ask if the company offers half-day and full-day service packages. When you purchase a half day of service, a handyman completes as many tasks as possible in about four hours. A full-day package is usually about eight hours of home improvement service.
• Buy ahead of time any materials you want the handyman to use so they can get straight to work. Many companies can also pick up the materials for you for a fee. Professional handymen arrive at jobs with their own tools and equipment.
• Are you planning to sell your house soon? Before you put your house on the market, a handyman company can likely take care of small updates recommended by your real estate agent.
• Some handyman companies offer light plumbing and electrical work. Your handyman needs to be properly licensed to do this work. Ask for their license number and verify it with the appropriate organization. For more complex work, contact a licensed master plumber or master electrician.
MD
“From basic electrical and plumbing work to roofing and bathroom remodels, Mr. Handyman can do everything on your ‘honey-do’ list. We are proud of the excellent reputation we have developed over the years and grateful to our thousands of customers for their continued support. Repeat business and referrals are key to our success.” Kevin
Crysler | President
Services Offered: Mr. Handyman offers a variety of services, including repairs and installation for drywall, gutters, siding, and roofing; electrical, plumbing, and carpentry services; and bathroom remodeling.
Warranty: Mr. Handyman offers a full, one-year warranty on all workmanship and materials they provide. Additional material warranties may apply.
Company History: The locally owned-and-operated franchise has served residential and commercial customers since 2005.
Distinctions: Kevin Crysler serves as President on the Opus Concert Theatre Board of Directors and won Mr. Handyman International’s 2019 President’s Award.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: The company does not perform yard work or basement waterproofing.
4.8 out of 5
Trade License(s) MHIC-128435
General Liability Insurance
Verified
“Our staff is focused on providing excellent customer service, promising a prompt start, and delivering a thorough completion of all projects. You can count on the Clarksville Construction Services team to do what we say we will do, with no surprises. We build trust first.” Adam August | President
Services Offered: Clarksville Construction Services, Inc. (CCS) is a wholehome remodeling contractor offering a full range of handyman services. In addition to kitchen and bathroom remodeling, basement finishing, home additions, garage conversions, and interior and exterior painting, the company offers home exterior work, design services, and an online portal and app customized for each client. Estimates are free.
Warranty: CCS offers a one-year warranty on small parts and fixtures supplied and installed by the company and a five-year warranty for major remodeling projects. CCS honors manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: The company started in 1999.
Distinctions: CCS won the Best of Howard County Award for Best Remodeler in 2021 and 2022 and the Best of Anne Arundel County Award for Best Home Improvement in 2022 and 2023 and Best Roofing in 2023.
Minimum Job: A $500, 3-hour minimum is required.
Verified
4.7 out of 5
“After years in residential remodeling and construction, our happy clients developed such a trust in the Hambleton team that they called back to ask for general home repairs. We formed Hambleton Handyman so that we could honor those requests.” Tommy Salmon | General Manager
Services Offered: Hambleton Handyman offers home repair and improvement services, including carpentry, drywall, painting, caulking, electrical, plumbing, tile, weather-stripping, power washing, and exterior and interior repairs. The company completes to-do lists and repairs and replaces siding, shingles, doors, trim, wood rot, decking, fences, ceiling fans, and faucets.
Warranty: All work performed by Hambleton Handyman is backed by a one-year labor warranty.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was established in 2014.
Employee Information: Uniformed employees wear shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: Appliance repair, HVAC services, and carpet installation are not offered.
Minimum Job: The company has a one-hour job minimum. A $50 estimate fee is waived if work is performed.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-142779
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
Best Pick Reports recommends:
2nd year as a Best Pick ■ Remodel Now
2nd year as a Best Pick
• Home remodeling
• Home additions
• Kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling
• Three- and four-season rooms
• Sunrooms, porches, and decks
• Home exterior updates and renovations
• Remodeling is exciting and rewarding, but it also involves a lot of details and coordination. A total-home remodeling company can make the process easier. All communication and planning is done with one company, which helps ease your stress.
• In general, projects that add livable space to your house have the greatest return on investment. This can look like adding an in-law suite or finishing the basement, for example. Kitchen and bathroom remodels also have a good return on investment. If you’re planning to sell your house soon, focus on function before style. Everyone’s style preferences are different, especially when it comes to kitchens and bathrooms. Functional updates to those spaces carry a higher return on investment.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. Scan for additional educational content ■ Wall to Wall Construction
• If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, look into energy-efficient fixtures and appliances. These upgrades can help lower utility bills later.
• Look into the maintenance requirements for materials you’re considering. For example, conventional hardwood floors need periodic refinishing and can be prone to scratches and marks. Some people instead opt for lowmaintenance engineered hardwood, laminate, or tile.
• Try not to get too attached to an idea before you know how much it costs. Staying on budget will be harder if you aren’t open to at least a few different options and ideas. If you have an idea of what you want and how much you’re willing to spend, most contractors can work with you to create a design you love that still falls within your budget.
• Meet with several contractors before making a hiring decision. Price can indicate the quality of work you’ll receive, so be cautious about estimates that are on the very low end of the range you get. Experience and reputation are key. Verify any state-required insurance and licenses and ask for references before you sign a contract.
“Wall to Wall Construction is a quality-focused firm dedicated to exceeding client expectations. A home can be a foundation for family and everyday life, and when we enhance that experience, it is truly rewarding.” Gregory Wall | President
Services Offered: Wall to Wall Construction is a full-service turnkey design/build firm. The company specializes in single and multi-story additions, whole-house renovations, custom homes, kitchens, baths, basements, porches, and decks. Other services include green remodeling, aging-in-place and accessibility solutions, exterior remodeling, and hardscaping. Estimates are free.
Warranty: Workmanship carries a one-year warranty.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was established in 1995 by Gregory Wall.
Distinctions: Wall to Wall is A+ Rated and Accredited with the BBB, an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm, a CertainTeed ShingleMaster and 5-Star Vinyl Siding Contractor, and a member of the NAHB and MBIA.
Employee Information: Uniformed employees drive marked vehicles and undergo background checks.
Minimum Job: Projects begin at $5,000.
“We understand that your home is a reflection of your style and personality. That’s why we work closely with each client to bring their vision to life.” Reggie Danage | General Manager
Services Offered: Remodel Now is a design/build remodeling firm that specializes in full-scale home remodeling. The company’s additional services include bathtub and shower conversions and window and door replacement. Financing is available, and estimates are free.
Warranty: Comprehensive labor warranty coverage is offered on all projects. All bathrooms are eligible for Schluter’s lifetime waterproof warranty. All Kohler products carry the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty.
Company History: The local company was established in 2001.
Employee Information: Uniformed employees wear shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Additional Information: Remodel Now works with products from brands such as Kohler, Moen, and Graf.
Minimum Job: Projects begin at $5,000.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-111358, 420323000130
Verified
Verified
5th year as a Best Pick ■
2nd year as a Best Pick
• Fiberglass insulation
• Batt insulation
• Blown-in insulation
• Spray foam insulation
• Attic insulation
• Radiant barriers
• Crawl space insulation
• Air flow balancing
• Duct and air leak sealing
• Energy audits
• High utility bills are one sign that your home lacks sufficient insulation. If air escapes through openings, your HVAC system will work harder to heat and cool your home. This shortens the system’s lifespan and increases your energy usage. Also watch for other signs of poor insulation, like uneven indoor temperatures and increased levels of dust around the house.
• Over time, blown-in attic insulation tends to settle. If your home is five to ten years old or older and has blown-in insulation, consider adding another six inches or so of insulation to your attic. This boost in R-value can help reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. Scan for additional educational content ■
winter, which conserves energy and reduces your utility bills.
• Fiberglass is the most widely used home insulator and is also used to reduce noise transfer from room to room. Fiberglass insulation comes in precut batts, rolls, or blankets. Batts are strips specifically sized to fit between wall studs. Fiberglass rolls can be rolled out on attic floors. Blankets are common for insulating basement or crawl space ceilings.
• Foam insulation has the highest R-value of all insulation types. Foam insulation comes in both expanding and nonexpanding varieties. Nontoxic and soy versions are also available. Foam insulation is usually classified as either open-cell or closed-cell. Closed-cell foam is rigid and has a higher R-value than open-cell foam. Closed-cell foam stops moisture vapors and is highly mold resistant. This makes it good for damp areas. Open-cell foam is also efficient, but it doesn’t stop moisture the way closed-cell foam does. It is, however, less expensive. The cost of foam insulation is typically higher than other types of insulation, but the energy savings you’ll see over time can recoup the higher up-front cost.
“For 33 years, Power Home Remodeling has been the most trusted name in exterior remodeling: trusted because we care about our products being energy efficient and cost effective; trusted because we value integrity,
manship; and trusted because we believe in total customer satisfaction.” Adam
Services Offered: Power Home Remodeling specializes in exterior remodeling services, offering roof and siding replacement, window and door replacement, and attic insulation.
Warranty: The company offers a limited lifetime warranty on insulation products in addition to a lifetime labor warranty on all products and services.
Company History: Established in 1992, Power Home Remodeling serves customers in 22 states nationwide and Washington DC.
Distinctions: Power currently ranks third on Qualified Remodeler’s 2023 Top 500 list and first among full-service remodelers. The company ranked first on Qualified Remodeler’s 2020 Home Improvement Professionals list. Power also ranks 13th on Fortune Magazine’s 2023 list of 100 Best Companies to Work For and appears on PEOPLE Magazine’s 2023 list of Companies That Care.
and
Kaliner | Founding Partner
out of 5
Workers’ Comp
“Environmental Pest Control has been serving customers in MD, VA, and WV since 2006. Every day, we aim to deliver the highest level of customer service through our core values of humility, integrity, passion, and performance. We offer free estimates and inspections for all insulation jobs. Contact us today!” Nate Ripley | President
Services Offered: Environmental Pest Control specializes in insulation removal, insulation top-off, and insulation installation services. The company also offers blown insulation, batt insulation, spray foam insulation, jacket insulation, and attic hatch insulation. Environmental Pest Control can address insulation needs in attics, garages, and crawl spaces.
Warranty: The company offers a one-year warranty on materials and labor.
Company History: Environmental Pest Control was established in 2006.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-141156
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ Spartan Junk Removal
10th year as a Best Pick | The company does not provide dumpster rentals.
DUMPSTER
• Household junk removal and disposal
• Household junk sorting, recycling, and donating
• Residential-use dumpster rental and haul-away
• Most junk removal companies prefer to give estimates on-site. This is because their charges are often based on the volume of material to haul. By seeing in person everything that needs to be removed, the crew can give you a more accurate estimate. There are several factors that can affect the cost of having your items removed. You might pay more if the crew will need to travel a long way or haul items that are especially heavy or hard to reach. There could also be extra fees for multiple trips or a bigger crew than normal. If any of the items need to be taken to a landfill or recycling center that charges fees, you’ll likely be charged for that, too. Even with extra fees, the convenience of having professionals take away your junk and clutter is well worth it.
• Junk removers will take almost anything, but there are some restrictions. Most companies can’t haul hazardous materials, like oil-based paint, car batteries, or pesticides. For those types of items, contact your county’s solid
waste department. Many areas have community hazardous waste disposal days a few times per year.
• Many contractors will come ready to do the job the day they give the estimate. If you need them to come back on a different day, plan to be present. The crew will need you to confirm what needs to be removed and give them access to storage areas or sheds. The removal team will do the work of retrieving and moving everything into the truck. For safety reasons, you should not take part in the moving process.
• Almost all junk removal contractors will sweep up the cleared area as part of their services. It’s a helpful step, especially if the junk removal is simply one piece of a larger process, like getting your house ready for sale or renovation.
• Some junk removal companies also offer dumpster rental services. Renting a dumpster is a cost-effective choice for DIY home renovation projects or major house and yard cleanup jobs. When you rent a dumpster, the company will bring the receptacle to your house and pick it up when you’re ready. Most residential rental dumpsters are 12-cubic-yard dumpsters. This is smaller than the standard commercial size, but still plenty large enough for most home projects.
Neither the state of Maryland nor the District of Columbia issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
Scan for additional educational content
“At Spartan Junk Removal, we know decluttering can be overwhelming for our customers, and nobody wants useful things to end up in a landfill. We believe junk removal should be simple, easy, and eco-friendly. That’s why we make decluttering easy and donate and recycle what we can so everyone can flourish.” Christopher
Weir | President & CEO
Services Offered: Spartan Junk Removal provides debris and junk removal services for residential and commercial customers, including yard debris, appliance, and furniture removal. The company also offers clean-out and foreclosure services, hoarding solutions, pickups for hazardous materials, and recycling or donating services for removed items.
Warranty: The company offers a $25 on-time guarantee.
Company History: Spartan is a local company that was founded in 2012 by Christopher Weir.
Distinctions: The company is a member of the Maryland Green Registry.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: The company does not provide dumpster rentals.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
12th
10th
• Kitchen remodeling and renovation
• Bathroom remodeling and renovation
• Cabinet replacement and refacing
• Countertop and flooring replacement
• Fixture installation
• Tile installation
• Design services
• Request written estimates from several remodeling firms. When you meet with a contractor about your project, be as detailed as possible about what you have in mind. This helps get everyone on the same page.
• Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom is a great opportunity to make the space more functional. Think about your needs and wants for the new
MD
space, and talk to your contractor about options that will best fit your lifestyle and budget.
• Certain phases of a renovation can be inconvenient, but the results are worth it. Adjustments like setting up a temporary food station with a microwave, coffee maker, and mini fridge in another room can make life easier during a kitchen remodeling project.
• While each project is different, common bathroom remodeling steps include demolition, structural carpentry work, roughing out utilities, and installing drywall. Painting comes last since the walls will be marked up during demo and construction.
• Ask about warranties and guarantees on materials and workmanship, and get the details in writing.
“At James L. Graves Construction, LLC, our core values guide us every day and help us create a highly successful environment to craft spectacular design and remodeling services. Our team takes pride in their work and in the results we achieve for our customers. We are here for you every step of the way.” James Graves | Owner
Services Offered: James L. Graves Construction, LLC, is a full-service design and build general contractor specializing in home remodeling with interior and exterior divisions. The company offers full and partial kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, basement build-outs, and additions. Exterior services include roofing, siding, windows, and doors. Specialized software allows customers a visual aid during the design process.
Warranty: James L. Graves Construction offers a one-year warranty on labor, manufacturers’ warranties up to ten years, and a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: The company has been remodeling for Maryland customers for over 45 years.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-127872
“We want working with Integrity Home Pro to be the best experience you have ever had with a contractor. We are built on the Golden Rule, and we continue to stand on it: ‘Do unto others as you would have them do to you.’”
Danny Peterson | President
Services Offered: Integrity Home Pro is a full-service home improvement company that serves residential customers. In addition to a wide variety of home remodeling services, the company performs full kitchen and bathroom remodels, including the installation of countertops, cabinetry, and flooring. Integrity Home Pro offers free estimates and uses kitchen design software to create design perspectives. The company also offers basement remodeling as well as siding, roof, window, door, and gutter replacement.
Warranty: Integrity Home Pro offers a transferable ten-year labor warranty on all interior remodeling services.
Company History: The company was founded in 2003.
Employee Information: Crews wear uniforms and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified
“At Metropolitan Bath and Tile, we take pride in everything we do. Big or small, basic or fancy; we love what we do, and that is reflected in every bathroom we remodel.” Richard McKenzie | President
Services Offered: Metropolitan Bath and Tile offers a full range of residential bathroom remodeling services. The company installs and repairs plumbing and plumbing fixtures; tile walls, floors, and showers; vanity cabinets; countertops; lighting and ventilation; tubs and showers; and safety features for homeowners with impaired mobility. Metropolitan also performs tub-to-shower conversions.
Warranty: The company guarantees materials for up to ten years and provides a one-year warranty on labor.
Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1979.
Additional Information: Metropolitan does not use subcontractors. The company carries products from many brands, including Kohler, American Standard, WOLF, Moen, Delta, and Jacuzzi.
Services Not Offered: Metropolitan does not reglaze or recover bathtubs and does not remodel kitchens.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Trade License(s) MHIC-129895
General Liability Insurance
“At Archangel Remodeling, our motto is ‘Your renovation is our work of art.’ Every detail of your project is as important to us as it is to you. I am personally involved in every project, and our work is not complete until each customer is completely satisfied with the aesthetics and functionality of their new space.” Stephen Lorditch | Owner
Services Offered: Archangel Remodeling is a full-service remodeling company that offers a comprehensive range of home services. The company designs and builds custom kitchens, bathrooms, and home additions and also offers tile work, flooring, decks, room additions, and basement remodels. Archangel Remodeling provides free estimates.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime warranty on services and select products.
Company History: Archangel Remodeling is a local, family-owned company that was founded in 2007 by Stephen Lorditch.
Distinctions: The company is a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-129921
Verified
Verified
“We opened our doors in 1979, establishing the business on the core values of a family-run company. Since then, we’ve become known for our incredible craftsmanship and unwavering dedication to excellence, and we’ve amassed a long list of satisfied customers.” Brett Cohen | Owner
Services Offered: Kitchen Saver provides a custom cabinet renewal process for kitchen makeovers. The company uses high-quality materials and premium finishing methods for every job completed. Kitchen Saver also offers free estimates.
Warranty: Kitchen Saver provides a ten-year warranty on labor and material.
Company History: The family-owned company was started in 1979 by Andy Snyder.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: Kitchen Saver does not offer flooring services.
Minimum Job: The company requires a project minimum of eight cabinet doors or drawer fronts.
Trade License(s) MHIC-28743
General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
COMMON LANDSCAPING SERVICES
• Landscape design and installation
• Landscape lighting installation
• Water features
• Retaining walls
• Irrigation and drainage
• Arbors, pergolas, and gazebos
• Walkways and pavers
• Fire pits and fireplaces
• Outdoor kitchens and living areas
• A landscaping pro can create a custom plan for you based on your needs and budget. Details like climate and yard size will shape the plan.
• Work on your yard shouldn’t start until you’ve approved a fully detailed design and signed a contract. Before you sign the contract, make sure the scope of work outlined in that
document matches what is included in the design drawings.
• Once you approve the design, the landscaping company will pull any necessary permits and get your underground utility lines marked. Hardscaping and trees come next, followed by drainage and soil work along with shrubs and small plants. Sod and landscape lighting are usually installed last.
• As you plan your new landscape, it’s smart to include drought-resistant and native plants. Some plants need more water than others and won’t thrive if they aren’t watered regularly. Native plants are acclimated to the temperatures and moisture levels of your region, so they won’t need extra watering or special care.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
“East Coast delivers beauty, new outdoor experiences, and exceptional value to your life and home with inspiring landscapes, hardscapes, and drainage solutions. Our clients benefit from elegant design and meticulous craftsmanship, covering small spaces or complete backyard makeovers. We bring your outdoor dreams to life!” Mark Simpson | President
Services Offered: East Coast Landscape Design delivers custom landscape and hardscape services, including plantings and gardens, patios and gathering spaces, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, walkways and driveways, permeable pavers, outdoor lighting, retaining walls, and drainage and erosion control solutions.
Warranty: The company offers warranties of ten years on hardscape work and one year on landscape work.
Company History: The company began in 1979.
Distinctions: East Coast received an Excellence in Landscape award from the LCA as well as Super Service Awards. Owner Mark Simpson is a certified Segmental Retaining Wall Installer, a Permeable Interlocking Concrete Paver Specialist, and a certified contractor for the Montgomery County RainScapes program. The company is a Techo-Pro Contractor, member of CMHA, and participates in the DC RiverSmart program.
Minimum Job: A $4,000 minimum job is required.
“At Green Future Construction, we treat every project and investment as if it were our very own, and we are committed to delivering high-quality projects. With a company-wide dedication to unparalleled craftsmanship and customer service, we look forward to becoming the company of choice for all your outdoor needs.” Ilie Pintilie | Owner
Services Offered: Green Future Construction offers a variety of landscaping services and builds hardscapes such as decks, patios, retaining walls, walkways, stairways, driveways, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits. In addition, Green Future provides 24-hour emergency tree removal, tree trimming, crane services, stump grinding, and lot cleaning. The company also offers drainage solutions, including grading, French drains, rock swales, dry wells, and sump pumps.
Company History: The company has been in business for over 20 years.
Distinctions: Owner Ilie G. Pintilie is an ISA Certified Arborist and an ICPI Certified Installer.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer waterproofing, lawn mowing, lawn care, leaf removal, or snow removal services.
Minimum Job: The company requires a job minimum of $5,000 for construction and $1,000 for tree services.
4.9 out of 5 Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-98280
“Since 1989, we’ve provided clients with personalized service through all phases of project design and installation. Our approach to each job is to do the best work possible by paying careful attention to details every step of the way. We are committed to giving our customers the highest-quality services.” Jeff Potter | President & MD Licensed Landscape Architect
Services Offered: J&G Landscape Design specializes in all aspects of residential landscaping, including design, planting, and construction. The company incorporates drainage correction and sustainable landscape practices in every project.
Warranty: J&G offers a one-year warranty on plant materials and a fiveyear warranty on hardscapes.
Company History: Founded by Jeff Potter in 1989, J&G continues to serve the local community. Jeff maintains daily involvement with the J&G team.
Distinctions: J&G employs three licensed Landscape Architects, a Maryland Licensed Tree Expert, a Certified LEED Green Associate, and an ICPI Certified Concrete Paver Installer. J&G is a RainScapes Landscape Professional, a certified Techo-Pro Contractor, and an ICPI member. J&G received multiple Excellence in Landscape Awards from the LCA MD-DCVA, where Paul Jester is the immediate past president.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-92847
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“’Best Price and Service Guaranteed!’” Tim Ballard | CEO
Services Offered: Ballard Enterprises provides lawn and garden maintenance, including one-time and routine mowing, edging, fertilization, aeration, mulching, leaf cleanup, and shrub pruning as well as landscape design and installation, including sod, hydroseeding, gardens, patios, retaining walls, water features, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, walkways, and drainage solutions. Tree services and free estimates are also offered.
Warranty: Ballard Enterprises provides warranties for all materials and workmanship offered.
Company History: The company started in 2003.
Distinctions: Ballard Enterprises employs ISA Certified Arborists, an ISA Tree Risk Assessor, and an ISA Certified Tree Worker Climber Specialist. The company is accredited by the Tree Care Industry Association.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer asphalt, poured concrete, stamped concrete, or foundation repair.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s)
Verified
“AE Quality Landscaping stands out as a family-owned-and-operated landscape installation and maintenance company committed to delivering unparalleled customer service and exceptional attention to detail.”
Services Offered: AE Quality Landscaping specializes in commercial and residential landscaping, lawn maintenance, and tree services. The company’s landscaping services include landscape design and installation, grading, and planting. AE Quality Landscaping also offers a full range of lawn maintenance and tree services, including mowing, tree and bush pruning and trimming, aeration, seeding, watering, edging, tree removal, and stump grinding. Estimates are free.
Warranty: Landscape installations carry a one-year warranty.
Company History: The family-owned company was established in 2018.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: AE Quality Landscaping does not offer lawn treatment services.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-151668
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
14th year as a Best Pick ■
3rd year as a Best Pick
Lawn Treatment Educational Content
• Lawn maintenance and treatments
• Fertilization, including custom blends
• Weed control
• Pre- and post-emergent treatments
• Insect, mite, and disease control and treatments
• Seeding
• Aeration
• Overseeding
• Soil analysis
• Discolored grass during the growing season is generally a sign of trouble. Common causes are underwatering, a nutrient deficiency, or a disease. The grass could also be injured or stressed. Your best bet is to have a lawn care professional assess your yard, diagnose the issue, and recommend remedies.
• Two common lawn diseases are Dollar Spot Disease and Brown Patch Disease. Dollar Spot is most common in Bermuda grass. It appears as a series of brown spots, each about the size of a silver dollar. To fix the problem, a lawn treatment professional will fertilize the affected area. The symptom of Brown Patch Disease is brown circular patches of grass. It is more
common in St. Augustine and is usually treated with a fungicide.
• A thick, healthy lawn prevents weeds by starving them of both nutrients and sunlight, but getting grass to grow thick enough can be hard. To help, your lawn treatment company can apply a pre-emergent to stop weeds from growing. If weeds are already growing, a postemergent can control them. To limit stress on the grass, post-emergents should be used sparingly during hot weather.
• Core aeration removes plugs of soil and grass and puts them on top of the lawn. Spike aeration pokes holes into the ground so the air and water can move into the soil. If your lawn is seeded first, the spike aeration process will drive the grass seed into the ground. Both aeration methods loosen the soil, allowing water to flow in and fresh air to oxygenate the soil.
• Early fall months are generally considered the best time for seeding. If your area has acidic soil, your lawn crew might recommend a lime application to balance pH levels. Balancing the pH of the soil will give your grass seed a better chance to flourish.
MD companies are required to hold a Pesticide Business License and a Certified Fertilizer Applicator License issued by the MD Department of Agriculture.
for additional educational content ■
“Your lawn is more than a plot of land, it’s an extension of space where you live, work, and play, and you should be getting the most out of it. Our highly trained and certified specialists get to know your property by starting with a soil test so they can partner with you to build a better lawn from the ground up.” The Blades of Green Team
Services Offered: Blades of Green offers organic-based lawn care; aeration/seeding; tree and shrub care; mosquito, flea, and tick programs; and mole and vole programs.
Company History: The company is a local, family-owned business that has been serving the Maryland and Northern Virginia area for 36 years.
Distinctions: Blades of Green has appeared on Inc. 5000’s list of America’s Fastest Growing Companies for a fifth time.
Employee Information: Lawn care and pest control technicians wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles. All team members are required to pass background checks and drug screening prior to employment.
Additional Information: The company’s lawn care program is phosphorous-free and 100 percent organically based, consisting of custom-blended fertilizers. This excludes weed control treatments.
Trade License(s) 25099, PFA-0197 Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
“Ready for a greener, more enjoyable lawn? Lawn Doctor of Annapolis is a 40-year-old family-run business. We use a Bay-Friendly approach with premium products to make your lawn healthy and beautiful. Our certified and trained team follow a scientific approach to care for your lawn and are always happy to help you.” Lawn Doctor Annapolis Team
Services Offered: Lawn Doctor of Annapolis provides a variety of lawn treatment services, including fertilization, weed control, soil enrichment, disease prevention and treatment, fungus treatment, aeration and seeding, moisture management, and lawn renovation. The company also offers mosquito control, outside pest control, mole and vole prevention, and free estimates.
Warranty: Lawn Doctor of Annapolis offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: The family-owned company was established in 1985.
Distinctions: The company won What’s Up? Media’s Best of Annapolis 2022 in the Lawn Service/Treatments category.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 32211, PFA-2046
Verified
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
• Local moving services
• Long-distance moving services
• Interstate moving services
• Packing and unpacking
• Packing and moving supplies
• Loading and unloading
• Furniture assembly and disassembly
• Short- and long-term storage services
• Piano, artwork, and antique furniture moving
• Request a few written estimates so you can compare options. Be sure to mention any stairs, elevators, and heavy or delicate items, as well as storage units.
• Some amount of liability coverage, usually $0.60 per pound per item relocated, is included in the price of a move. Moving companies do sell extra liability coverage. Some homeowners’ insurance policies cover goods in transit, so check your policy before purchasing additional coverage.
• Anything you will need immediately upon arriving at your new home should be in one or two boxes that are loaded last and unloaded first. Always take medications, important paperwork, and valuable or cherished items with you in your own car.
• You might be able to save money by moving in the middle of a month. Most moving companies are busiest at the beginning and end of the month, as leases end and house purchases close.
• The estimates you receive will likely be either binding or nonbinding. A binding estimate is a set price covering only the goods and services listed on the estimate. A nonbinding estimate is an estimated price that is finalized at the end of the job, based on the weight of the shipment or the length of the job. A nonbinding estimate is often lower than a binding estimate, but the final cost can exceed the quote.
MD and DC companies must hold a USDOT # (as well as an MC # for interstate movers) issued by the US Department of Transportation. Intradistrict movers must also hold a Moving and Storage License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
“Whether you are moving locally or long distance, we strive to make your move as smooth as possible. Our philosophy is that every client deserves exceptional service. We will work with you to plan a stress-free transition and give you the best advice possible on how to make your move a success.” Matthew McKendree | President
Services Offered: McKendree Moving & Storage, Inc., is a moving company that offers a variety of relocation and storage services.
Company History: The company is a second-generation family business founded in 1981 by the husband-and-wife team of Edward and Mary McKendree.
Employee Information: Employees must pass regular drug tests. Employees wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles.
Additional Information: McKendree Moving & Storage offers full replacement-value coverage and exclusive direct delivery for interstate shipments.
“Our primary focus is to accommodate all customers’ needs and to personally tailor a move based upon your specific project. We settle for nothing less than excellence and the absolute highest level of service. We will personally walk you through the entire process to ensure absolute customer satisfaction.”
Services Offered: 495 Movers offers local and long-distance residential and commercial moving services, packing, loading, unloading, assembly, disassembly, and storage. 495 Movers accommodates special handling needs for pianos and antiques that require extra care and offers direct delivery for interstate shipments.
Company History: The company was started in 2009.
Distinctions: 495 Movers is a member of the Maryland Motor Truck Association.
Employee Information: Employees undergo drug testing and background checks and must participate in the company’s training program and pass the AMSA certification test.
Additional Information: The company offers free on-site estimates, free packing materials with every move, and various insurance coverage options, including Full Value Protection coverage.
Nate Segal | Founder
Verified
4.8 out of 5
MC-681362, 420620000005
“Our motto is to provide superior service at an affordable cost. We will go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction with our professionalism and diligent team. From the first employee all the way to the owners of the company, we’re fully committed to our customers from start to finish.” Moti
Kachlon | CEO
Services Offered: Excalibur Movers Inc offers local and long-distance residential and commercial moving services, including packing, unpacking, disassembly, reassembly, junk removal, office moves, interstate moves, piano moving, and on-site storage. The company provides free estimates.
Warranty: Excalibur Movers offers basic coverage or full-value protection.
Company History: The local company was founded in 2011.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks.
Additional Information: Excalibur Movers offers senior, student, and military discounts.
4.5 out of 5
Trade License(s) USDOT-2131975, MC-742546
General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
“Great Nation Moving is a family-owned-and-operated moving company that delivers the best possible moving experience with the most reasonable price.” David Yanoff | CEO
Services Offered: Great Nation Moving offers local and long-distance moving services, storage solutions, trash removal, and staging. Estimates are free.
Warranty: The company offers full value protection (FVP) insurance plans and more.
Company History: The local, family-owned business was established in 1983.
Distinctions: Great Nation Moving is A+ Rated and Accredited with the BBB and is a HomeAdvisor Top Rated and Elite Service professional.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms and shoe covers, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Verified
MC-647930
Verified General Liability Insurance
Workers’ Comp Exempt
Best Pick Guaranteed
14th year as a Best Pick
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13th year as a Best Pick
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5th year as a Best Pick
■ JL Painting Corp
3rd year as a Best Pick
COMMON PAINTING SERVICES
• Interior and exterior painting
• Color consultations
• Carpentry and wood repair
• Drywall repair
• Cabinet painting
• Faux and decorative finishes
• Wallpaper installation and removal
• Popcorn ceiling removal
• Garage floor painting
• Fence and deck painting and staining
• Cheaper paints are formulated differently from more expensive options, so they often require more coats to get the same result as higherquality paints. Cheap paint can make the job cost more in the end.
• Shinier finishes are durable and easy to clean. High gloss is best for trim and doors. A semigloss finish works great in the kitchen and bathroom. Opt for eggshell and matte finishes in low-traffic areas.
• Before you settle on an exterior paint color, check with your homeowners’ association, if you have one. There may be specific colors and paint brands you have to use. Also take your home’s architectural style into account. Some paint manufacturers offer palettes to make the color selection process easier.
• Preparation is the key to a successful paint job. Your painter should include proper prep work in their estimate for your job. Preparing an area to paint typically involves patching holes, sanding any patched areas and uneven spots, and ensuring that the entire surface is clean and dry. Exterior work should include repairing any wood rot and fixing damaged siding. Primer and paint adhere best to (and last longer on) clean, smooth surfaces, so good prep work is worth the cost.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. Scan for additional educational content
“Since 1989, we have put you, the customer, first. That means fair pricing, prompt service, and the quality you deserve. Our trained painters do things the Klappenberger & Son way. We strongly believe in the benefits of ‘best practices’ and doing things right the first time.” David
Klappenberger
| Owner
Services Offered: Klappenberger & Son is a full-service painting company offering residential and commercial customers interior and exterior painting, power washing, wallpaper removal, deck and fence sealing and staining, and lead paint encapsulation.
Warranty: Klappenberger & Son offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: David Klappenberger founded the company in 1989. Jean Klappenberger began contributing to the business in the mid 90’s and has been a full-time partner in the business for over two decades.
Employee Information: Klappenberger & Son has four carpenters on staff. According to the company, all painters are field trained and tested prior to working in customers’ homes.
Minimum Job: The company requires a $1,200 minimum.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Trade License(s) MHIC-119936, 420219000108
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“Our clients love us because we handle all painting requests, beginning with our on-the-spot, computer-printed estimate; fast scheduling; and our quality craftsmen paying attention to every detail. We could not have embedded ourselves in this community for so long without absolute top-quality work, so let us beautify your home.” Rob Bontempo | Owner
Services Offered: Annapolis Painting Services offers residential and commercial interior and exterior painting with related services, including lead paint removal, carpentry repair, drywall repair, and power washing. The company also performs gutter cleaning, cabinet refinishing, deck restoration, window reglazing, and waterproofing.
Warranty: The company offers a five-year warranty on all painting work.
Company History: Annapolis Painting Services was founded in 1980.
Distinctions: The company is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm and Lead Abatement Contractor.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-24390
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“We are veteran owned and operated. Clients trust us with protecting and enhancing the value of their homes and businesses. Our goal is to provide the longest-lasting paint job and finest carpentry work with unsurpassed craftsmanship and service. It’s not just paint. It is your home, your workplace, where you dwell, how you dwell.” Tom Chervek | President
Services Offered: Blue Sky Painting & Carpentry, LLC, offers interior and exterior painting services, including wallpaper installation and removal, drywall installation and repair, and deck staining. Additional services include pressure washing; carpentry services; wood replacement and repair; door and window replacement; siding, trim, crown molding, baseboard, and chair rail installation; remodeling; and wood floor refinishing. Blue Sky offers free estimates.
Warranty: The company offers a three-year warranty on labor and manufacturers’ warranties on materials.
Company History: Blue Sky was founded in 2009.
Distinctions: The company is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm. Blue Sky supports several local community projects and foundations.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers.
Minimum Job: A $1,200 job minimum is required.
5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s)
“At JL Painting, we strive to be a one-stop shop. Our team members are experienced in painting, drywall, carpentry, and more! Our staff is focused on providing excellent customer service and communication from start to finish. We are committed to bringing value to all current and new customers.” Julio
Pineda | Owner
Services Offered: JL Painting is a full-service painting contractor that offers a wide range of interior and exterior services. In addition to interior and exterior painting and staining, the company offers drywall repair, rotten wood replacement and carpentry work, handyman services, and pressure washing. Estimates are free.
Warranty: Painting jobs carry a one-year craftsmanship warranty that covers prep work and the painting process.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was established in 2013.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms and shoe covers, and undergo background checks.
Services Not Offered: JL Painting does not hang wallpaper.
Minimum Job: The company has a $500 job minimum.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-140585
Verified
Verified
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12th year as a Best Pick
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4th year as a Best Pick ■
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3rd year as a Best Pick
COMMON PAVER INSTALLATION SERVICES
• Paver installation
• Paver design
• Paver surface cleaning and sealing
TOP CONSUMER TIPS
• Pavers are bricks of high-density concrete. In terms of design, they’re a step up from the standard gray poured concrete typically used for patios, walkways, and driveways. The size and shape of each paver is controlled by the manufacturing process, so a paver surface is neat and uniform in appearance while still being visually appealing. The cost of a paver installation is in the middle between poured concrete slabs and brick or stone pavers.
• The first step in a paver installation is excavating the area to be paved and then tamping down the dirt with a compaction machine. This creates a stable base. Next, the crew will put down a foundation of crushed stone, compacting each layer. A layer of granite sand goes down next to fill the gaps between the crushed stone and create a smooth surface for the pavers. Finally, the crew will lay the pavers and then tap them into place with the compaction machine.
• The base layer for a paver driveway will be thicker than it would be for a walkway. This ensures that the surface can handle the weight of multiple vehicles.
• Unlike standard masonry, pavers are not mortared in place. Instead, the installers spread a layer of polymeric or regular sand on top of the pavers and sweep it into the cracks between them. Polymeric sand binds together when sprayed with water, which makes the sand permanent.
• Ask your contractor about permeable pavers. Surfaces paved with permeable pavers have joints filled with small stones. This feature lets water flow into the ground underneath, which reduces runoff and puddling.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
“East Coast delivers beauty, new outdoor experiences, and exceptional value to your life and home with inspiring landscapes, hardscapes, and drainage solutions. Our clients benefit from elegant design and meticulous craftsmanship, covering small spaces or complete backyard makeovers. We bring your outdoor dreams to life!” Mark Simpson | President
Services Offered: East Coast Landscape Design delivers custom landscape and hardscape services, including plantings and gardens, patios and gathering spaces, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, walkways and driveways, permeable pavers, outdoor lighting, retaining walls, and drainage and erosion control solutions.
Warranty: The company offers warranties of ten years on hardscape work and one year on landscape work.
Company History: The company began in 1979.
Distinctions: East Coast received an Excellence in Landscape award from the LCA as well as Super Service Awards. Owner Mark Simpson is a certified Segmental Retaining Wall Installer, a Permeable Interlocking Concrete Paver Specialist, and a certified contractor for the Montgomery County RainScapes program. The company is a Techo-Pro Contractor, member of CMHA, and participates in the DC RiverSmart program.
Minimum Job: A $4,000 job minimum is required.
4.9 out of 5
Trade License(s) MHIC-42490, 410513000257 Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best
Services Offered: Ballard Enterprises provides paver installation as well as landscape design and installation, including sod, hydroseeding, gardens, patios, retaining walls, water features, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, walkways, and drainage solutions. Tree services, lawn and garden maintenance, and free estimates are also offered.
Warranty: Ballard Enterprises offers warranties for all materials and workmanship offered.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 2003 by Tim Ballard.
Distinctions: Ballard Enterprises employs ISA Certified Arborists, an ISA Tree Risk Assessor, and an ISA Certified Tree Worker Climber Specialist. The company is accredited by the Tree Care Industry Association.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer asphalt, poured concrete, stamped concrete, or foundation repair.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-136678
Verified
“ABS offers a variety of exterior remodeling services performed around your schedule. We take great pride in the workmanship our company provides for every job we do. We offer 100 percent customer satisfaction and stand behind our work. From beginning to completion, we see that your job will be performed on time and on budget.” Gary Ross | Owner
Services Offered: Advanced Building Services provides paver and hardscape installation services for custom patios, driveways, outdoor firepits, steps, retaining walls, swimming pool and hot tub surrounds, walkways, and underdecks. The company also offers roof installation, repair, and replacement; siding repair and replacement; window installation; water mitigation; interior remodeling; financing options; and free estimates.
Warranty: Advanced Building Services offers one-, five-, and ten-year service warranties depending on the service.
Company History: Gary and Susan Ross established the company in 2006.
Distinctions: The company is an IICRC Certified Firm.
Additional Information: Advanced Building Services works with GAF and CertainTeed products.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Trade License(s) MHIC-130833
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
“Since 1989, we’ve provided clients with personalized service through all phases of project design and installation. Our approach to each job is to do the best work possible by paying careful attention to details every step of the way. We are committed to giving our customers the highest-quality services.” Jeff Potter | President & MD Licensed Landscape Architect
Services Offered: J&G Landscape Design specializes in all aspects of residential landscaping, including design, planting, and construction. The company incorporates drainage correction and sustainable landscape practices in every project.
Warranty: The company offers a five-year warranty on craftsmanship concerns.
Company History: Founded by Jeff Potter in 1989, J&G continues to serve the local community. Jeff maintains daily involvement with the J&G team.
Distinctions: J&G employs three licensed Landscape Architects, a Maryland Licensed Tree Expert, a Certified LEED Green Associate, and an ICPI Certified Concrete Paver Installer. J&G is a RainScapes Landscape Professional, a certified Techo-Pro Contractor, and an ICPI member. J&G received multiple Excellence in Landscape Awards from the LCA MD-DCVA, where Paul Jester is the immediate past president.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-92847, 410518000159
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
14th year as a Best Pick
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13th year as a Best Pick ■ Environmental
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Pest control services
• Pest removal
• Pest exclusion services and repairs
• Scheduled pest treatments
• Termite protection
• Mosquito control services
• Eco-friendly options
• Disinfectant services
• Whole-house fumigation services
• Pest removal can be dangerous, so always call a professional to handle the issue. Most pest control companies are equipped to address all types of pest issues, but some specialize only in certain pests. Be sure to ask whether the company handles the specific pest you’re dealing with.
• To avoid attracting pests indoors, don’t let food, drinks, or pet food sit out overnight. Clear debris and piles of lumber from your yard, since they provide refuge for pests like termites and
cockroaches. Termites need moisture to breed, so keep your gutters and downspouts clear all year. Have leaks repaired promptly and watch for damp areas at the foundation.
• Many pest control companies take a comprehensive approach to pest problems. This means that the exterminator will use natural pesticides and humane traps or pest exclusion methods first. If needed, they will also carefully use synthetic pesticides.
• Once pests are gone, their entry points should be sealed. Your exterminator will find where the pests got in, identify other potential entry points, and recommend ways to prevent the issue in the future.
• Don’t use insecticides on bees and wasps. These pollinators are vital to our ecosystem. A pest pro will know how to safely and humanely control the swarm and move the nest.
MD companies are required to hold a Pesticide Business License issued by the MD Department of Agriculture. DC companies are required to hold a Pesticide Operator License issued by the DC Department of the Environment.
“Our clients really love our environmentally friendly approach and quick response time. Whatever the pest problems are, we help provide a solution.” Brad
Leahy | Vice President
Services Offered: B.O.G. Pest Control offers Integrated Pest Management services targeting ants, termites, stink bugs, mosquitoes, moles, and other pests. In addition to pest control, the company offers organic-based lawn care. The company serves residential and commercial customers.
Company History: B.O.G. Pest Control is a local, family-owned business that has been serving the Maryland area for 36 years.
Distinctions: B.O.G. Pest Control is a National Pest Management QualityPro company.
Employee Information: Employees of the company wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles. Technicians are required to pass background checks prior to employment.
Additional Information: B.O.G. offers environmentally friendly, green pest control products.
4.4
of 5
Trade License(s)
Verified General Liability Insurance Verified
“Pests thrive year-round. Mice, ants, roaches, and termites can invade your home and wreak havoc on your livelihood. Backed by our pest-free pledge, our general pest control plans provide coverage for over 30 pests and are designed with each season in mind, so you can stop worrying about insects and focus on what matters most.” Kevin Poland | President
Services Offered: American Pest offers eco-friendly pest control services to address pests such as ants, beetles, cockroaches, crickets, mice, silverfish, spiders, and stinging insects. The company provides termite elimination, mosquito control, tick mitigation services, Anticimex SMART rodent control solutions, and consultations. American Pest specializes in bedbug thermal remediation, canine bedbug detection, insect identification, and LEED solutions.
Warranty: The company offers a Pest Free Pledge.
Company History: The company started in 1925.
Distinctions: American Pest has employees with PhDs in Entomology, 3 Board Certified Entomologists, and 13 Associate Certified Entomologists on staff. American Pest is a NPMA QualityPro and GreenPro company as well as an Authorized Operator of the Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System.
Services Not Offered: Wildlife services are not offered.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 31802, 10150
Verified
Verified
“CroppMetcalfe was built on and continues to provide high-quality service, high-quality products, and complete customer satisfaction. Our most loyal customers have stayed with us for over 30 years. Our vision is to serve our customers with the goal of creating customers for life.” Tim Cropp | General Manager
Services Offered: CroppMetcalfe offers residential and commercial termite and pest control treatment and prevention services, including mosquito, bedbug, and stink bug services, wildlife removal, and rodent exclusion.
Company History: CroppMetcalfe was founded in 1979 by Mitchell Cropp and has remained a regional, family-operated company ever since. The company has three locations in the Washington, DC, area.
Distinctions: CroppMetcalfe is a member of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA).
Employee Information: Technicians are rigorously trained and have an average of 15 years of field experience. CroppMetcalfe employees wear uniforms and drive fully stocked vehicles.
4.8 out of 5 Verified Trade License(s) 32673, 10050
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
“Environmental Pest Control has been serving customers in MD, VA, and WV since 2006. Every day, we aim to deliver the highest level of customer service through our core values of humility, integrity, passion, and performance. We offer free estimates and inspections for all pest control and wildlife removal issues. Contact us today!” Nate Ripley | President
Services Offered: Environmental Pest Control specializes in pest exclusion, elimination, and prevention services. Additional services include wildlife removal. The company also offers protection plans, ecofriendly solutions, and free inspections.
Warranty: Quarterly preventative pest control services, wildlife removal exclusions, and termite treatments carry a 1-year warranty. One-time services are covered by a 30-day warranty.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was established in 2006 by Nate Ripley, Ryan Garrison, and Tommy Kellogg.
Distinctions: The company is a NWCOA member.
Employee Information: Uniformed employees drive marked vehicles and are background checked.
Services Not Offered: Fumigation, trapping, and removal of dead animals, snakes, groundhogs, and deer are not offered.
4.9 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 32204 Verified General Liability
3rd year as a Best Pick
COMMON PLUMBING SERVICES
Plumbers Educational Content
• General plumbing installation, replacement, maintenance, and repairs
• Plumbing remodeling services
• Water heaters
• Toilets, faucets, and fixtures
• Garbage disposals
• Drain cleaning
• Water and sewer line repair and replacement
• Septic services
• Sump pumps
TOP CONSUMER TIPS
• Locate the main water shutoff valve for your house. This valve is typically indoors, near the water heater. Most fixtures also have their own shutoff valves.
• Most drain clogs are avoidable. Cover drains with strainers or screens, and don’t pour grease down the kitchen sink. Chemical clog removers are caustic and can weaken pipes over time, so try to avoid them.
• Low water pressure can signal a water line problem or sediment buildup. Remove faucet aerators to look for sediment. If you see bubbles instead of a full swirl of water as a basin drains, the pipe may be blocked.
• If your water heater’s temperature is set too high, someone could be scalded. Your hot water should be no higher than 120 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
MD companies are required to hold a Master Plumber License issued by the MD Board of Plumbing. DC companies are required to hold a Plumbing Contractor License issued by the DC Board of Industrial Trades.
“CroppMetcalfe was built on and continues to provide high-quality service, high-quality products, and complete customer satisfaction. Our most loyal customers have stayed with us for over 30 years. Our vision is to serve our customers with the goal of creating customers for life.” Tim Cropp | General Manager
Services Offered: CroppMetcalfe offers the repair, service, and installation of faucets, water heaters, garbage disposals, main water lines, drains, sinks, toilets, and sump pumps. The company also specializes in video sewer inspection.
Company History: CroppMetcalfe was founded in 1979 by Mitchell Cropp and has remained a regional, family-operated company ever since. The company has three locations in the Washington, DC, area.
Distinctions: CroppMetcalfe is a member of the Plumbing and Mechanical Professionals of Virginia (PMPV) and the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC). The company was recognized as a 2018 National Contractor of the Year by the PHCC.
Employee Information: Technicians are rigorously trained, wear uniforms, and drive fully stocked vehicles.
4.8 out of 5
Trade License(s) 8486, PC1000456
General Liability Insurance
Workers’ Comp
“We pride ourselves on listening carefully to the needs of our customers. When clients call us with a plumbing issue, they’re looking for a skilled, trusted plumber to help as quickly as possible. Our offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic region let us act with urgency while sending the most skilled, highly trained professionals to get the job done right.” Jeff Cooper | CEO
Services Offered: Len The Plumber Heating & Air is a full-service plumbing company offering drain cleaning; sewer, water, and gas line work; and water heater repair and replacement. The company also specializes in sump pumps, wells, video sewer inspections, trenchless sewer line repair, boilers, and water purification.
Company History: The company started in 1996 and proudly serves the local communities of the Mid-Atlantic region.
Distinctions: Len the Plumber Heating & Air is A+ Rated with the BBB.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked, fully stocked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing prior to being hired.
Additional Information: The company offers same-day service seven days a week with no extra charge for evening or weekend appointments.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 73100, PGM955
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“In 1987, I founded Horizon Services with one philosophy: ‘Always do the right thing.’ We guarantee homeowners always receive expert service by a highly trained, fully licensed plumber; 24/7 support; and outstanding warranties. It’s why we’re the area’s trusted cooling, heating, and plumbing experts. Now that’s the Horizon Difference!” Dave Geiger | Founder
Services Offered: Horizon Services, LLC, provides plumbing system inspections, repairs, maintenance, and installations as well as water heater repair and replacement. The company also offers water treatment services, including water softening systems and reverse osmosis filtration. Additionally, Horizon Services, LLC, provides air conditioning and heating repair, installation, and maintenance.
Warranty: The company offers a two-year guarantee on repairs and a sixyear warranty on water heater installations.
Company History: Horizon Services, LLC, was founded by Dave Geiger in 1987.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, use drop cloths, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: The company does not install or service industrial or commercial systems.
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“My Plumber PLUS is committed to being the company of choice for all of our customers’ needs. We strive to exceed the expectations of our customers on every visit. We respond to our clients’ needs diligently, quickly, and honestly with the highest regard for customer satisfaction.” Wendell Presgrave | President
Services Offered: My Plumber PLUS provides residential and commercial plumbing services, including drain cleaning, leak detection, pipe rerouting, water heater services, water services, and emergency plumbing repair. The company installs and repairs faucets, garbage disposals, and toilets. Additional services include heating and cooling system repair and replacement, duct cleaning, and electrical.
Warranty: The company offers a variety of parts-and-labor warranties and honors manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: My Plumber PLUS began in 1982.
Distinctions: The company is a member of the PHCC and the Prince William Chamber of Commerce and was named a Business Excellence Award nominee by the Chamber. Founder Wendell Presgrave was Virginia’s PHCC Plumbing Contractor of the Year in 2015.
Employee Information: Uniformed employees drive marked vehicles and are background checked.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Verified
Verified
“Prime Plumbing is committed to being the local plumber everyone can trust and rely on. We’re willing and able to work on all plumbing systems, big or small, and always committed to delivering excellent customer service. Prime Plumbing will continue to do what is right for the customer, no matter what.” Tom Shrum | Owner
Services Offered: Prime Plumbing offers plumbing services, including water, sewer, and gas piping; water heater, boiler, faucet, and fixture repair; well-water testing and treatment options; and septic pumping and repair. The company has an in-house excavation department that offers trenchless sewer and water service repair and replacement.
Warranty: Prime Plumbing offers a standard one-year parts-and-labor warranty with some exclusions, as well as a lifetime warranty on full sanitary sewer service replacements.
Company History: The local company was founded in 2012 by Tom Shrum.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
4.9 out of 5
“Staton’s number one priority is people, always. We understand that plumbing, heating, and cooling issues can be stressful, so we provide a seamless customer experience to restore your peace of mind. We believe in keeping you comfortable year-round so you can be present with your family. We look forward to earning your business.” Will Staton | Owner
Services Offered: Staton Heating, Cooling & Plumbing specializes in plumbing, drain and sewer cleaning, and air conditioning and heating services. The company’s plumbing and drain services include maintenance, repair, and replacement; plumbing inspections; leak detection; standard and tankless water heaters; water filtration systems; gas line work; sump pumps; and trenchless sewer repair.
Warranty: Plumbing services carry a one-year labor warranty and up to a ten-year parts warranty.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 1983.
Distinctions: The company won What’s Up? Media’s Best of Annapolis 2023 in the HVAC category and Best of Central Maryland 2023 in the Plumber category.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms.
Services Not Offered: Duct cleaning is not offered.
Minimum Job: Plumbing and HVAC repair calls have a $39 trip fee, which is waived if the job is sold that day.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Verified Trade License(s) 5645 Verified
• Roof installation and replacement
• Roof repair and maintenance
• Fascia and soffit repair
• Roof inspections
• Storm damage assessments
• Most roof leaks are caused by failed or improperly installed flashing around chimneys, vent pipes, and skylights. Caulk is a temporary solution. For a long-term fix, the flashing will need to be totally replaced.
• Normal house settling can make shingles look wavy. You may also see waves if new shingles were installed over existing shingles, which goes
against best practices for re-roofing. Rotted decking can also cause a wavy look, as can partially bonded asphalt shingles. Damaged decking must be replaced. Time and warm weather will help shingles soften and flatten out.
• Roof ventilation is critical. Without it, the hot air trapped in your attic will strain your HVAC system. Roof replacement is an ideal time to add ventilation.
• Contractors working on other parts of your house can damage the roof if they aren’t careful. For example, a gutter or window cleaning contractor shouldn’t use any type of nailed bracing on a pitched roof. Accidental nail holes increase the chances of a leak.
MD
“We supply our customers with top-level service, excellent products, professional crews, and quality workmanship, as their recommendations and referrals provide us with a network of new customers.”
Joseph Jones & Jeffrey Thomas | President & Vice President
Services Offered: Metropolitan Exteriors, Inc., offers residential and commercial installation and repair of all types of roofing, including asphalt, wood shake, slate, and metal. The company also replaces windows and doors and installs gutters, siding, trim, and soffit for residential and commercial properties.
Warranty: Metropolitan Exteriors honors manufacturers’ warranties and offers a warranty on labor.
Company History: Vice President Jeffrey Thomas founded Metropolitan Exteriors in 1988. He currently spearheads Metropolitan’s customer relations. The company is local and family owned, with Jeffrey’s stepbrother Joseph Jones serving as the president.
Distinctions: Jeffrey Thomas is certified as an EPA Lead Renovator.
“Every job we do is supervised, and the work is performed by experienced employees who provide our clients with beautiful, trouble-free roofs. We only use premium, top-quality materials. There’s no better way to protect your home than by keeping a good roof over your head.” Harry Kalashian | Owner
Services Offered: Harry & Sons Roofing replaces and repairs shingle, slate, standing seam, copper, and flat roofs in addition to gutters, downspouts, and flashing detail around chimneys for residential clients. Harry & Sons offers commercial clients maintenance packages and replaces and repairs built-up systems, TPO systems, and shingle and standing seam metal roofs.
Warranty: The company offers a variety of warranties depending on the work performed.
Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company has been serving the area for over 40 years.
Distinctions: Harry & Sons is a GAF Master Select Roofing Contractor and received the 2023 GAF Commercial Chairman’s Circle award, the 2022 GAF President’s Club Master Select award, and the GAF President’s Club award 2013 and 2015-2021. The company is also a CertainTeed ShingleMaster as well as a member of the National Roofing Contractors Association.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Verified
MHIC-95013, 420220000038 Verified
Verified
“Roof Masters has provided thousands of homeowners with the security and peace of mind that comes with knowing their homes and families are protected from the elements by a rugged, dependable, and long-lasting roofing system. We focus on 100 percent customer satisfaction. At Roof Masters, the ‘Proof is in the Roof.’” Howard Rittenberg | President
Services Offered: Roof Masters is a full-service roofing and exterior home improvement contractor. The company provides a wide range of products and materials for customers to choose from, including gutters, downspouts, siding, windows, doors, and skylights.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime warranty on most new installations.
Company History: Roof Masters has been serving the Washington metro area since 1994.
Distinctions: The company has been recognized by Qualified Remodeler as a Top 500 remodeler and a Top 200 exterior remodeler.
of
Trade License(s) MHIC-50663, 410515000651
General Liability Insurance
Workers’ Comp
“For 33 years, Power Home Remodeling has been the most trusted name in exterior remodeling: trusted because we care about our products being energy efficient and cost effective; trusted because we value integrity, honesty, and true craftsmanship; and trusted because we believe in total customer satisfaction.” Adam Kaliner | Founding Partner
Services Offered: Power Home Remodeling specializes in exterior remodeling services, offering roof and siding replacement, window and door replacement, and attic insulation.
Warranty: Roof installations are backed by a 50-year full manufacturer warranty. Power Home also offers a lifetime labor warranty on all products and services.
Company History: Established in 1992, Power Home Remodeling serves customers in 22 states nationwide and Washington DC.
Distinctions: Power currently ranks third on Qualified Remodeler’s 2023 Top 500 list and first among full-service remodelers. The company ranked first on Qualified Remodeler’s 2020 Home Improvement Professionals list. Power also ranks 13th on Fortune Magazine’s 2023 list of 100 Best Companies to Work For and appears on PEOPLE Magazine’s 2023 list of Companies That Care.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-49706
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
“We want working with Integrity Home Pro to be the best experience you have ever had with a contractor. We
the Golden Rule, and we continue to stand on it: ‘Do unto others as you would have them do to you.’”
Danny Peterson | President
Services Offered: Integrity Home Pro is a full-service home improvement company that serves residential customers. The company offers full roof replacements and installs skylights. Integrity Home Pro also provides siding, window, door, and gutter replacement as well as kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling services.
Warranty: The company offers a transferable 20-year labor warranty on all exterior replacement services.
Company History: The company started in 2003.
Distinctions: Integrity Home Pro is a GAF Certified Roofer. Owner Danny Peterson is an Enviroshake Factory Trained Contractor.
Employee Information: Crews wear uniforms and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Additional Information: Integrity Home Pro installs roofing products by GAF, Enviroshake, and CertainTeed.
4.9 out of 5
Trade License(s)
“For eight decades, Long Home Products has helped families enjoy safer, more beautiful homes. Quality products, outstanding craftsmanship, and dedication to customer satisfaction are at the core of our philosophy. We work with customers to make home improvement projects affordable with competitive rates and payment plans.” John DePaola | CEO
Services Offered: Long Home Products specializes in asphalt shingle, metal, flat, luxury shingle, and designer roof replacement and installation. The company also offers tub-to-shower conversions; aging-in-place options; shower and bathtub replacement; double-hung, casement, awning, bow, and bay windows; entry, patio, and storm doors; and free estimates.
Warranty: Long Home Products offers a 50-year transferable roof warranty, a 50-year warranty on baths, and a lifetime window warranty.
Company History: The company started in 1945.
Distinctions: Long Home is a CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: Repair services are not offered.
Minimum Job: A three-window minimum is required.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-51346, 420222000021
Verified
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick
4th year as a Best Pick
COMMON SIDING SERVICES
• Siding installation
• Siding replacement and repair
• Vinyl and insulated vinyl siding
• Fiber cement siding
• Engineered wood siding
• Cedar siding
• Exterior home remodeling and renovation
• Signs that you need to replace your siding include warped planks, rotten areas, holes, bubbling paint, and persistent mold or mildew growth. Small areas of deterioration may be repairable, but if more than a few planks are failing, opt for all new siding.
• While you’re deciding on the type of siding you want, think about color schemes, too. Some siding products are painted during manufacturing, while others are painted after installation.
• Siding replacement jobs last approximately one to two weeks. Exterior painting, if needed, typically takes two to four days. Before the siding job begins, remove art and wall hangings from interior walls.
• Most siding products will last decades. Some materials, like brick or stone, can last the life of the structure. Fiber cement, composite, and vinyl siding are easy to maintain and typically need only an annual rinse to remove dirt and grime.
• Request estimates from several contractors, but don’t make your decision only on price. Hire an experienced contractor that uses reliable products and offers robust warranties.
MD
“We supply our customers with top-level service, excellent products, professional crews, and quality workmanship, as their recommendations and referrals provide us with a network of new customers.”
Joseph Jones & Jeffrey Thomas | President & Vice President
Services Offered: Metropolitan Exteriors, Inc., offers installation and repair of most major brands of vinyl and James Hardie siding and matching trim. The company also replaces windows and doors and installs gutters, roofing, trim, and soffit for residential and commercial properties.
Warranty: Metropolitan Exteriors honors manufacturers’ warranties and offers a warranty on labor.
Company History: Vice President Jeffrey Thomas founded Metropolitan Exteriors in 1988. He currently spearheads Metropolitan’s customer relations. The company is local and family owned, with Jeffrey’s stepbrother Joseph Jones serving as the president.
Distinctions: Jeffrey Thomas is certified as an EPA Lead Renovator.
“At Thompson Creek, we are completely accountable to our customers from their initial inquiry through installation and warranty of our products and services. All of our work is backed by 45 years in business and our No-Hassle Warranty and Buyer Protection Guarantee. Our focus continues to be delivering 100 percent satisfaction.” Rick Wuest | President
Services Offered: Thompson Creek Window Company offers energyefficient vinyl siding in a variety of styles and colors to residential customers. The company specializes in manufacturing, selling, and installing products developed specifically for the mid-Atlantic climate.
Warranty: The No-Hassle Warranty and Buyer Protection Guarantee protects homeowners for up to 50 years.
Company History: The company was started in 1980.
Additional Information: Thompson Creek windows and gutters are manufactured in their own local factory in Maryland. According to Thompson Creek Window Company, their siding has the ability to weather all conditions in the mid-Atlantic climate. The company offers siding options in a variety of colors.
Rating: 4.3 out of 5 Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-125294, 420213000015
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“For 33 years, Power Home Remodeling has been the most trusted name in exterior remodeling: trusted because we care about our products being energy efficient and cost effective; trusted because we value integrity, honesty, and true craftsmanship; and trusted because we believe in total customer satisfaction.” Adam Kaliner | Founding Partner
Services Offered: Power Home Remodeling specializes in exterior remodeling services, offering roof and siding replacement, window and door replacement, and attic insulation.
Warranty: The company offers a limited lifetime warranty on siding products in addition to a lifetime labor warranty on all products and services.
Company History: Established in 1992, Power serves customers in 22 states nationwide and Washington DC.
Distinctions: Power currently ranks third on Qualified Remodeler’s 2023 Top 500 list and first among full-service remodelers. The company ranked first on Qualified Remodeler’s 2020 Home Improvement Professionals list. Power also ranks 13th on Fortune Magazine’s 2023 list of 100 Best Companies to Work For and appears on PEOPLE Magazine’s 2023 list of Companies That Care.
Employee Information: Power has Vinyl Siding Institute Certified Installers on staff.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-49706
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“We want working with Integrity Home Pro to be the best experience you have ever had with a contractor. We are built on the Golden Rule, and we continue to stand on it: ‘Do unto others as you would have them do to you.’” Danny Peterson | President
Services Offered: Integrity Home Pro is a full-service home improvement company that serves residential customers. The company installs siding in a variety of siding materials, including vinyl, wood, and fiber cement. Integrity also provides window, door, roof, and gutter replacement as well as kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling.
Warranty: The company offers a transferable 20-year labor warranty on all exterior remodeling services.
Company History: Integrity was founded in 2003.
Employee Information: Crews wear uniforms and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Additional Information: Integrity installs siding products by all vinyl siding manufacturers as well as James Hardie fiber cement siding and trim.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-136556
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Pick Guaranteed
“Family owned and working with our neighbors one at a time!” Tim Whiting |
Services Offered: The Whiting Company offers siding replacement, free estimates, custom designs and measurements, made-to-order products, and access to nearly every manufacturer. Additionally, the company offers window, door, roof, gutter, and garage door services.
Warranty: The Whiting Company offers three- to ten-year labor warranties on products the company installs. The company honors manufacturers’ warranties, including up to lifetime warranties on materials.
Company History: The family-owned company was established in 1986 by Tim Whiting.
Distinctions: The company is a CertainTeed ShingleMaster and a GAF Certified Roofing Contractor.
Additional Information: The Whiting Company offers products from Alside, James Hardie, CertainTeed, Mastic by Ply Gem, and most other manufacturers.
Minimum Job: A $1,500 job minimum is required.
4.6
of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-28218
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Before major home projects, get multiple contractor quotes. Look beyond
9th year as a Best Pick
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Solar panel system design
• Solar panel system installation
• Solar batteries
• Real-time solar panel system monitoring
• Opting for a solar panel system can save you anywhere from 20 to 100 percent on your electricity costs compared to traditional power sources. Electric utility tier rates directly affect how quickly you will recoup your investment. A smaller system that satisfies part of your energy needs may be more cost effective if it avoids higher-tier rates. Many people start out with a smaller system and increase the size modularly over time.
• Solar panel systems don’t need much maintenance, and most systems have warranties of 10 to 25 years. Be sure the system you purchase will pay back your initial investment before the warranty expires.
• At any point, your solar panel system can produce more or less energy than you need. During a surplus, your solar panel system makes more energy than your household uses. That extra
electricity feeds back into the municipal power grid. You are then credited for the surplus. This utility buy-back benefit is usually called Net Metering (NM). It’s a billing arrangement that credits you for the full retail value of the extra electricity your system generates.
• To adhere to state and federal regulations, energy producers that use fossil fuels have to meet a clean energy quota. In some states, energy companies meet this quota by giving Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) to solar panel system owners. These SRECs are then claimed by the energy company as proof of clean energy production. SRECs have a monetary value that differs from state to state. You only benefit from SRECs if you own your system. If you lease your solar panel system, you won’t be eligible for SRECs.
• Your state may offer other incentives for solar panel systems, like property tax breaks or exemptions and/or sales tax waivers. The Residential Clean Energy Credit is a 30 percent federal income tax credit available to those who invest in solar energy systems.
MD companies must hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. Companies that connect solar panels to electrical systems must hold a Master Electrician License. DC companies must hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
“I became interested in renewables in general, and solar power specifically, when I learned about the risk posed by climate change. There was a time when the only reason to go solar was to help the environment. Today, the economics have changed dramatically, and solar power is not just cleaner power, it is also cheaper power!”
Peter Belman | CEO
Services Offered: Solar Energy World provides customized solar panel system design and installation for homeowners.
Warranty: The company offers varying warranties depending upon the product.
Company History: Founded in 2009, Solar Energy World is a locally owned-and-operated company headquartered in Laurel, Maryland.
Employee Information: Field employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo drug testing and background checks.
Additional Information: Solar Energy World offers services in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, and Florida.
4.6
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“American Home Contractors has been in business for over 35 years, providing exterior services and upgrades to Maryland, Washington D.C., and Northern Virginia homes. American Home prides itself in customer satisfaction and guarantees to do the best job possible when remodeling your home.” Steve Lozinsky | Brand President
Services Offered: American Home Contractors installs solar roofing, solar panels, home battery backups, and EV chargers. The company provides additional exterior household services, including roofing, gutter, window, entry door, and siding installation and replacement.
Warranty: The company offers ten-year to lifetime warranties on labor and materials.
Company History: American Home Contractors was established in 1986.
Distinctions: American Home Contractors is a Tesla Certified Solar Roof and Powerwall Installer, a GAF Energy Solar Roof Installer, and a Maxeon Select Partner. The company is A+ Rated and Accredited with the BBB.
Additional Information: The company works with products by Tesla, GAF, IKO, James Hardie, Mastic by Ply Gem, Alside, Pella, ProVia, Andersen, Marvin, Sunrise, and Interstate.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-31337, 22891, 410522000809
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■ Metropolitan Bath and Tile 443-274-1203 9th year as a Best Pick
• Tile installation for bathrooms, kitchens, floors, and backsplashes
• Specialty tile work
• Tile repair
• The most popular types of tile for residential projects are ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone. Ceramic tile can be glazed or unglazed. Glazed ceramic tile is a popular choice because it’s stainand moisture-resistant. Unglazed tile typically isn’t used for flooring or countertops because it’s susceptible to stains. Porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile. It comes in an almost endless variety of colors, designs, and textures. Natural stone tile is unique and visually interesting with its varied colors and textures. Natural stone tile needs to be sealed on a regular basis to protect it from stains.
• Tile comes in such a wide range of prices that you’ll be able to find something you like regardless of your budget. Sometimes, a higher price indicates better durability, but in most cases, it just means that the tile is detailed and could require more skill to install. Cheaper tile is just as water resistant and easy to clean as expensive tile.
• Different areas of your house may require slightly different tiling processes. Since tile is often
installed in bathrooms and kitchens, contractors typically use either greenboard or blueboard drywall as the tile backer board. Greenboard drywall is moisture resistant, while blueboard has slightly more water-resistant qualities. Waterproof cement board is another common option, especially for bathrooms.
• In a tiled space that will get wet often, it’s normal for some water to permeate the grout. The key to preventing water damage is installing waterproof backer board and vapor barrier. The backer board and vapor barrier must be installed (and installed correctly) before the tile goes up.
• Cracking is the most common problem with tile floors. Tile is strong, but it can crack if it isn’t installed on a solid, even surface. A tile floor must have a solid subfloor. Conventional wooden subfloors flex slightly when they’re walked on. This means that these types of subfloors might need reinforcement before installing tile on top.
• Many contractors bid their jobs with a tile allowance. This means that you don’t necessarily need to select your tile before signing a contract for home remodeling work. You can select the tile later, and the price of the job will be adjusted accordingly.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission.
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“At Metropolitan Bath and Tile, we take pride in everything we do. Big or small, basic or fancy; we love what we do, and that is reflected in every bathroom we remodel.” Richard McKenzie | President
Services Offered: Metropolitan Bath and Tile installs stone, glass, and ceramic tile on walls, floors, and showers in addition to offering a wide range of full and partial residential bathroom remodeling services.
Warranty: Metropolitan Bath and Tile guarantees materials for up to ten years and provides a one-year warranty on labor.
Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1979.
Employee Information: Metropolitan Bath and Tile does not use subcontractors. Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo drug testing and background checks.
Services Not Offered: The company does not reglaze or recover bathtubs and does not remodel kitchens.
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“I will keep using the Best Pick Reports guidebook. I’d give it 5 out of 5.”
–James G. | Sugar Hill, GA
6th year as a Best Pick
4th year as a Best Pick Tree Services Educational Content
• Tree pruning and trimming
• Tree removal
• Cabling and bracing
• Root fertilization
• Stump grinding
• Insect and disease control
• Tree planting
• Tree care consultations
• Tree health and risk assessments
• Tree disease diagnosis and treatment plans
• Know your local ordinances before having a tree removed. Tree removal sometimes requires a permit or formal approval. A reputable tree company will check the local ordinances before starting any projects around your home.
• Never allow anyone to climb your trees with climbing spikes unless the tree is being completely removed. Climbing spikes create wounds that can expose the tree to fatal disease and insect attacks.
• Consult a professional arborist prior to starting construction activities around trees. Most of a tree’s feeding roots are in the top six to eight
inches of the soil and extend beyond the canopy spread. This means that the root system is easy to damage accidentally during projects that involve soil grading or digging, like sprinkler system installation or sewer line work.
• Mulching over a tree’s root system conserves soil moisture, but it’s important that the tree’s roots still be able to breathe. The mulch layer should be only three to four inches thick. Too much mulch inhibits oxygen availability for the roots and can cause more harm than good.
• Tree topping, or cutting off the top of the tree, is a common practice, but tree care experts do not recommend it. Crown reduction is a healthier, safer option. This technique involves removing specific branches at or near the treetop. While tree topping can easily kill the tree, crown reduction is far less damaging. Experts recommend removing no more than a quarter of a tree’s branches at one time.
• Mushroom growth on or around your trees is a sign of trunk or root decay. Decay weakens a tree and makes it more likely to fall or split. If the problem is caught early, an arborist may be able to save the tree.
MD companies are required to hold a MD Tree Expert License issued by the MD Department of Natural Resources. DC does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
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“At Green Future Construction, we treat every project and investment as if it were our very own, and we are committed to delivering high-quality projects. With a company-wide dedication to unparalleled craftsmanship and customer service, we look forward to becoming the company of choice for all your outdoor needs.” Ilie
Services Offered: Green Future Construction offers 24-hour emergency tree removal, tree trimming, crane services, stump grinding, and lot cleaning. In addition, Green Future provides a variety of landscaping services and builds hardscapes such as decks, patios, retaining walls, walkways, stairways, driveways, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits. The company also offers drainage solutions, including grading, French drains, rock swales, dry wells, and sump pumps.
Company History: The company has been in business for over 20 years.
Distinctions: Owner Ilie G. Pintilie is an ISA Certified Arborist and an ICPI Certified Installer.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer waterproofing, lawn mowing, lawn care, leaf removal, or snow removal services.
Minimum Job: The company requires a job minimum of $5,000 for construction and $1,000 for tree services.
Services Offered: Ballard Enterprises - Lawn, Landscape, & Tree Professionals provides a full range of tree services, including tree removal, tree pruning, stump grinding, crane service, health and risk assessments, tree health repair, and more. The company also offers a full range of landscaping and lawn services.
Warranty: Ballard Enterprises provides warranties for all materials and workmanship offered.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 2003 by Tim Ballard.
Distinctions: Ballard Enterprises employs ISA Certified Arborists, an ISA Tree Risk Assessor, and an ISA Certified Tree Worker Climber Specialist. The company is accredited by the Tree Care Industry Association.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
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• Water damage restoration
• Water extraction
• Structural drying
• Mold remediation
• Smoke damage restoration
• Fire damage restoration
• Carpet removal and cleaning
• Odor removal
• Reconstruction services
• Personal property packing, evaluation, and restoration
• Damage from a storm, fire, or burst pipes can be dangerous and cause serious problems. Be sure to address the damage immediately. Disaster recovery companies often offer emergency services 24 hours a day, so you can get help quickly. Since the details of your homeowners’ insurance coverage impact the restoration process, be sure to also reach out to your insurance agent as promptly as possible. Your insurance agent will explain what your policy covers and how much you can expect to pay out of pocket for repairs.
• Let your insurance company and restoration team know if you have photos or videos of your belongings from before the disaster. This documentation helps with the accuracy of the claim and the restoration work.
• It takes about three to five full days for a structure to dry completely, with the proper equipment. Although the affected area may seem dry, there is often hidden moisture that should be resolved before restoration work begins.
• Smoke damage leaves behind soot and odor. Soot must be thoroughly cleaned before a house is suitable for occupation. In some cases, flooring, drywall, and insulation may need to be replaced to get rid of the odor completely.
• Get a detailed written proposal for the restoration work, including estimated time frames. You might have to make alternative living arrangements until the job is completed. Many restoration companies offer packing and storage services, so if the work involves major construction, you won’t need to coordinate with a separate company to protect your belongings while the work is being done.
Some services, including water damage repair and reconstruction, require a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. In DC, these services require a license from the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. Companies that do not offer these services are not required to hold a trade license.
“From your initial phone call to the completion of your project, we will show you why The Best Air Quality and Restoration is the environmental contractor of choice for so many home and business owners in Washington, Baltimore, Maryland, and the surrounding areas.” Valid Salikhov | Manager
Services Offered: The Best Air Quality and Restoration provides water damage mitigation and remediation services, including expert water cleanup, extraction, and assessment. The company also offers mold removal, testing, and cleanup; mold remediation in HVAC systems; free estimates; and 24/7 emergency service.
Warranty: The company provides a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee and a six-month warranty for mold remediation services.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 2009.
Employee Information: Employees wear shoe covers and undergo background checks and drug testing.
“For over a decade, Flood Department and Compassion Clean has been Maryland’s trusted specialist in water and fire damage, mold remediation, and duct cleaning. Our commitment to excellence means we’re there for you any time, any day, working directly with insurance companies to streamline the process and ease your stress.” Ken Braden | President
Services Offered: Flood Department and Compassion Clean is a water, mold, fire, and storm damage restoration specialist. Services include water removal and damage mitigation, mold remediation, fire and smoke cleaning, structural drying, content pack-out and cleaning, deodorization, sanitization, and duct cleaning. The company offers 24/7 emergency service and free estimates.
Company History: Flood Department and Compassion Clean is a local company founded in 2009.
Distinctions: The company is certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
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7th year as a Best Pick
• Basement waterproofing
• Foundation waterproofing
• Moisture and humidity control systems
• Interior and exterior drainage systems
• Crawl space sealing
• Basement and crawl space water problems are usually caused by hydrostatic pressure. Water in the soil pushes against the walls or floor of the basement or crawl space and eventually seeps through into the space. Hydrostatic pressure can be caused by poor grading, defective or clogged gutters, and failed footing drains.
• The fix for a water intrusion issue often involves a few systems and tools. First, check that the gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and installed correctly. Foundation cracks should be sealed. Cement block walls and mortar joints are especially susceptible to leakage. Sealing and waterproofing these elements will help prevent ongoing issues.
• Your waterproofing contractor may also recommend a drainage system. Drainage systems can be installed around the exterior or interior perimeter of your house. Waterproofing experts know how to install these systems efficiently while minimizing the mess.
• Sump pumps are common additions to waterproofing and drainage systems. If you have a sump pump, have it inspected and maintained annually. Sump pumps must have a power source. If you have frequent power outages, ask your contractor about a battery-backup sump pump.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
“Value Dry transforms wet, humid basements and musty crawl spaces into dry, healthy, livable environments by installing waterproofing and encapsulation systems in homes and businesses in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Delaware, and West Virginia. You can count on our promise of quality combined with professional workmanship.” James Ketterer | President
Services Offered: Value Dry addresses flooding and humidity in basements and crawl spaces by installing drainage and encapsulation systems that include sump pumps, battery backup sump pumps, French drains, and basement air ventilation systems. Egress windows and foundation repairs are also offered.
Warranty: Value Dry offers a lifetime transferable warranty against water seepage of treated areas.
Company History: The company was founded in 2003. Company president James Ketterer has over 25 years of industry experience.
Distinctions: Value Dry is a BHA member. James Ketterer is a BHA certified Waterproofing Specialist and Egress Specialist. The company is also an Indoor Air Quality Association member. Value Dry received a Secretary’s Citation from the MD Department of Commerce in recognition of 15 years of quality work.
4.6 out of 5
69011722
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“We have proudly served the Baltimore and Washington metropolitan areas for over 35 years. Our goal is to create healthy, clean, and dry basements that all homeowners can utilize as valuable living space.” Richard Carpenter | President
Services Offered: AA Action Waterproofing Inc. specializes in a variety of basement waterproofing and structural issues. The company offers custom solutions for foundation issues. AA Action also provides drain tile systems, sump pumps, exterior waterproofing, excavation, wall sealants, wall pins, carbon fiber straps, steel I-beams, and underpinning as well as total foundation and stairwell wall rebuilding. The company offers interest-free financing on approved credit.
Warranty: AA Action provides lifetime transferable warranties on most services.
Company History: AA Action Waterproofing was established in 1987.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-51719, 70108794
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“We are a family-operated, veteran-owned company with extensive experience in structural repair and water management issues. Since 1987, we have provided excellent customer service from start to finish on every job. Allmaster Home Services offers foundation repair services to residential customers.” Nicholas Locantore | Executive Vice President
Services Offered: Allmaster Home Services provides basement and crawl space waterproofing and water management systems. The company installs sump pumps and sump pump backup batteries, interior and exterior French drains, and drainage systems. Allmaster also offers downspout extension, crawl space encapsulation, and egress windows. The company specializes in all types of foundation repair services.
Warranty: The company offers structural warranties based on product and a limited lifetime warranty on waterproofing.
Company History: Allmaster Home Services has been serving the local residential community since 1987. The company is veteran owned and family run. Company president John Locantore has over 45 years of experience in the construction and home improvement industry. His sons and other key personnel also have decades of experience in the industry.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
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“JES Foundation Repair specializes in helping homeowners with foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and concrete lifting needs. With 32 years of experience, JES provides high-quality home repair solutions and personalized service across Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, and North Carolina.” JES Foundation Repair Team
Services Offered: JES Foundation Repair are experts in resolving foundation repair issues. The company also performs concrete lifting, crawl space encapsulation, and basement waterproofing. Free estimates and financing options are offered.
Warranty: JES Foundation Repair offers nationally backed transferable warranties.
Company History: Jesse and Stella Waltz founded the company in 1993. JES Foundation Repair is part of Groundworks Companies.
Distinctions: In 2022, JES Foundation Repair was named Lynchburg Living Magazine’s Best Basement Waterproofing and Foundation Services Company, Roanoker Magazine’s Best Foundation Repair Company, Coastal Virginia Magazine’s Best Foundation Repair Company, and Virginia Media Best of Virginia Beach’s Local Home Improvement Contractor.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-50637, 410516000653
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“All Aspects Waterproofing is committed to excellence with our vision to provide quality service and workmanship. We look forward to exceeding expectations providing healthy, dry basements and peace of mind.” James Kripas | Member
Services Offered: All Aspects Waterproofing provides residential and commercial waterproofing services, including foundation repair; basement and crawl space waterproofing; and installation of French drains, sump pumps, sump pump battery backup systems, egress windows, downspout extensions, and drainage systems.
Warranty: The company offers a transferable lifetime warranty.
Company History: All Aspects Waterproofing was founded in 2006.
Distinctions: The company is a member of the Basement Health Association (BHA) and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). All Aspects Waterproofing appeared on Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 list for multiple years.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles and undergo background checks.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-124298, 69002082
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Best Pick Guaranteed For your convenience, a quick reference sheet in
■ Critter Control
7th year as a Best Pick
■ Environmental Pest Control
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Wildlife removal
• Wildlife management
• Exclusion services and repairs
• Humane removal and control of birds, rats, squirrels, snakes, bats, opossums, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, foxes, gophers, and more
• Dead animal removal
• Space deodorization
• Insulation removal and replacement
• General pest control
• Wildlife removal can be dangerous, so don’t try to take care of the problem by yourself. Wild animals enter your home looking for shelter and safety, and they don’t take kindly to being removed from a cozy hiding place. They may bite or scratch out of fear. Always call a professional to handle the issue. Wildlife removal specialists have training and special equipment to safely and humanely remove nuisance animals without putting themselves or others at risk.
• Reputable wildlife removal companies use humane methods of animal control. In most cases, nuisance wildlife is captured using humane live traps. Once the animal is captured, state
regulations largely dictate the next steps. In some cases, the animal must be released in the same area in which it was captured. In others, the animal may be relocated a certain distance away.
• Once the animal has been removed, it is important to seal the entry points they used so more pests do not enter the home. These exclusion repairs are essential to resolving the problem. Your technician will do a thorough inspection to determine the pest’s point of entry, identify other potential points of entry, and recommend methods to prevent re-entry of other unwanted pests in the future.
• Exclusion work often includes tasks like installing a chimney cap, sealing gaps at the fascia, and patching siding holes. Sealing gaps around vents and pipes is also a common exclusion repair. To finish up the exclusion work, trim any tree limbs overhanging your roof. Also prune shrubs that grow too close to the house. If you have bird feeders in your yard, move them as far away from your house as possible. Birds are beautiful and fun to watch, but avoid giving them reasons to get close to your house.
The state of Maryland does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
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“Founded in 1983, Critter Control resolves nuisance wildlife and pest problems. We practice safe and humane wildlife management while providing the highest quality of customer service. Our services focus on getting rid of nuisance wildlife, repairing damage, then keeping them from re-entering your home or business.” Company Representative
Services Offered: Critter Control handles nuisance wildlife that includes, but is not limited to, flying and gray squirrels, raccoons, opossums, rats, mice, snakes, birds, moles, voles, groundhogs, chipmunks, and skunks. In addition, the company treats for bees, yellow jackets, and hornets. Critter Control performs safe and humane removal of wildlife, preventative recurring services, insulation replacement, dead animal removal, and exclusion services.
Company History: With over 100 offices in the US and Canada, Critter Control is the nation’s leading wildlife control company and has been resolving wildlife issues for customers for over 40 years.
Employee Information: Employees must pass background checks and drug tests. The company’s technicians wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles.
Services Not Offered: The company does not provide services for domestic animals, termites, or bedbugs.
“Environmental Pest Control has been serving customers in MD, VA, and WV since 2006. Every day, we aim to deliver the highest level of customer service through our core values of humility, integrity, passion, and performance. We offer free estimates and inspections for all pest control and wildlife removal issues. Contact us today!” Nate Ripley | President
Services Offered: Environmental Pest Control specializes in removal of wildlife such as rodents, squirrels, bats, moles, and birds. Additional services include pest exclusion, elimination, and prevention services. The company also provides protection plans, eco-friendly solutions, and free inspections.
Warranty: Quarterly preventative pest control services, wildlife removal exclusions, and termite treatments carry a 1-year warranty. One-time services are covered by a 30-day warranty.
Company History: The company was started in 2006 by Nate Ripley, Ryan Garrison, and Tommy Kellogg.
Distinctions: The company is a NWCOA member.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles and are background checked and drug tested.
Services Not Offered: Fumigation, trapping, and removal of dead animals, snakes, groundhogs, and deer are not offered.
4.9 out of 5 Trade
Not Required
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13th
4th year as a Best Pick
COMMON WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT SERVICES
• Door installation and replacement
• Window installation and replacement
• Energy-efficient windows and doors
• Impact or storm windows and doors
• Vinyl, fiberglass, steel, aluminum, wood, and engineered wood windows
• Sliding glass, patio, and French doors
• Entryway and interior doors
• Wood, insulated steel, and fiberglass doors
TOP CONSUMER TIPS
• Nearly one-third of all residential energy loss occurs through windows and doors. The worst culprits are old windows and doors. Fortunately, windows and doors on today’s market are very effective at keeping heated and cooled air from escaping the house.
• Multi-pane windows are more expensive than single-pane windows, but the energy savings over time typically outweighs the extra cost. The insulating gas, usually argon or krypton, that fills the space between the glass panes reduces the amount of heat transferred through the window.
• Low-emissivity (or Low-E) glass is manufactured with a very thin coating that reflects infrared light and UV rays from the sun to help keep your house cool in the summer.
• Windows and doors must be installed square, level, and load-free or they will be drafty. Having a capable and qualified contractor matters when the windows and doors are installed as well as in the future. Years after the installation, a reputable contractor will likely still be in business if you need service.
MD companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor License issued by the MD Home Improvement Commission. DC companies are required to hold a Home Improvement Contractor or General Contractor License issued by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
“We use the finest-quality materials and labor in every job, and we complete each project as if we were working on our own homes. In short, we are an owner-operated, friendly, hardworking company that will stand behind our work 100 percent.” Mike Rogers | Owner
Services Offered: American Windows & Siding installs vinyl, wood, fiberglass, and bay windows; sliding, French, and front doors; and siding for residential and commercial customers. The company also offers roof replacement and gutter and gutter guard installation.
Warranty: The company provides transferable lifetime warranties in combination with complete lifetime labor warranties. Additionally, most products are backed by a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty.
Company History: American Windows & Siding’s three owners, Edward Dunn, Charlie Gunn, and Mike Rogers, founded the company in 1991.
Additional Information: All of American Windows & Siding’s products are ENERGY STAR qualified.
Minimum Job: A six-window minimum is required.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-49743, 68007763 Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
“Our goal is always 100 percent total customer satisfaction. We eliminate the middleman by manufacturing the windows ourselves. We are completely accountable to our customers from their initial inquiry to project completion, and it’s backed by 45 years in business and our No-Hassle Warranty and Buyer Protection Guarantee.” Rick Wuest
| President
Services Offered: Thompson Creek Window Company designs, builds, and installs replacement windows in a variety of styles developed specifically for the mid-Atlantic climate. The company’s window installers guide homeowners through the window design process and provide in-home estimates.
Warranty: The No-Hassle Warranty and Buyer Protection Guarantee protects homeowners for up to 50 years.
Company History: Thompson Creek Window Company is family owned and operated and has been manufacturing and installing custom vinyl replacement windows and doors in the mid-Atlantic area for 45 years.
Additional Information: Thompson Creek windows and gutters are manufactured in their own local factory in Maryland.
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
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“We offer premium windows and doors specifically designed for the DC climate. All products are installed by highly skilled professionals and are covered by one of the most comprehensive warranties in the industry. We’re best known for the attention we pay to every detail.” Harley Magden | CEO & Co-owner
Services Offered: Window Nation installs custom vinyl windows and doors for residents of Northern Virginia, Maryland, DC, Northern Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
Warranty: Window Nation offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: Window Nation is owned by brothers Harley and Aaron Magden, third-generation window experts. The company has installed over 1 million windows in more than 125,000 homes.
Distinctions: The company is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm. Window Nation was ranked 5th on Remodeling’s 2020 list of the largest replacement contractors in the US.
Services Not Offered: The company does not install glass block or repair products that it did not install.
Minimum Job: A three-window minimum is required.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-124358, 420221000121
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“For 33 years, Power Home Remodeling has been the most trusted name in exterior remodeling: trusted because we care about our products being energy efficient and cost effective; trusted because we value integrity, honesty, and true craftsmanship; and trusted because we believe in total customer satisfaction.” Adam Kaliner | Founding Partner
Services Offered: Power Home Remodeling specializes in exterior remodeling services, offering roof and siding replacement, window and door replacement, and attic insulation.
Warranty: The company offers a limited lifetime warranty on window and door products in addition to a lifetime labor warranty on all products and services.
Company History: Established in 1992, Power Home Remodeling serves customers in 22 states nationwide and Washington DC.
Distinctions: Power currently ranks third on Qualified Remodeler’s 2023 Top 500 list and first among full-service remodelers. The company ranked first on Qualified Remodeler’s 2020 Home Improvement Professionals list. Power also ranks 13th on Fortune Magazine’s 2023 list of 100 Best Companies to Work For and appears on PEOPLE Magazine’s 2023 list of Companies That Care.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Verified
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“Family owned and working with our neighbors one at a time!” Tim Whiting | Owner & Founder
Services Offered: The Whiting Company offers window replacement, door installation and replacement, free estimates, custom designs and measurements, made-to-order products, and access to nearly every manufacturer. Additionally, the company offers roofing, siding, gutter, and garage door services.
Warranty: The Whiting Company offers three- to ten-year labor warranties on products the company installs. The company honors manufacturers’ warranties, including up to lifetime warranties on materials.
Company History: The family-owned company was established in 1986 by Tim Whiting.
Distinctions: The company is a CertainTeed ShingleMaster and a GAF Certified Roofing Contractor.
Additional Information: The Whiting Company offers products from Pella, Marvin, Anderson, Simonton, Slocomb, Alside, and most other manufacturers.
Minimum Job: A $1,500 job minimum is required.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MHIC-28218
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
Home upgrades that focus on lowering utility costs are a great investment. Energy-efficient windows and appliances offer
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ Mr. Clean Power Washing, LLC
4th year as a Best Pick | The company does not offer window cleaning as a standalone service.
• Interior and exterior window cleaning
• Pressure washing
• House washing
• Low-pressure roof cleaning
• Deck and fence cleaning
• Driveway, patio, and pool deck cleaning
• There are a couple of common techniques for washing windows, and both work well when done by an experienced, conscientious team. Some residential window cleaners hand-wash windows. This method lets the cleaner work with a lot of attention to detail. Water-fed pole cleaning is quicker and lets the cleaner stay on the ground for most residential jobs. For this method, the cleaner washes the windows with a long tube that sprays high-pressure purified water.
• Many window cleaning companies offer other related services, like recaulking and screen replacement. A company that offers these services can do all your seasonal window work at one time.
• Be sure to ask about the cleaning solutions the company uses. It’s very important that they not
use anything with hydrofluoric acid. Hydrofluoric acid is used in some commercial cleaning solutions, but it can cause etching or pitting on glass.
• Over time, mildew, algae, and dirt can dull your siding and the concrete or paved surfaces around your house. Stains and discoloration are hard to remove by hand, especially from materials like concrete, stone, and wood. A pressure washer can clean a larger area in less time than one person can accomplish with a scrub brush and soapy water.
• A pressure washer can spray a jet of water with enough force to do a lot of damage in inexperienced hands. For most residential jobs, however, the full power of a pressure washer isn’t needed. Low-pressure power washing, or soft washing, works well for jobs like roof cleaning and house washing.
• Window cleaning and pressure washing require skill, experience, and knowledge of chemicals. Because of the potential for damage and injury, be sure that the company you hire has plenty of experience as well as state-required general liability and worker’s compensation insurance policies. This coverage protects you and the crew members working at your house.
Neither the state of Maryland nor the District of Columbia issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
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“’Always deliver more than expected.’ Our goal is to treat every property we service as if it were our own. Our highly trained and screened technicians are prompt and prepared to work their magic using the most advanced equipment and detergents on the market today. 100% satisfaction guaranteed from initial call to project completion.” Eric
Smith | CEO
Services Offered: Mr. Clean Power Washing offers a variety of services for residential and commercial customers, including house washing (lowpressure technique used on siding); roof cleaning (low-pressure technique used); concrete, paver, flagstone, deck, and fence cleaning; oil stain and rust removal; gutter cleaning; and full-service Christmas light installation.
Warranty: Roof cleaning has a three-year warranty, house washing has a six-month warranty, and all exterior cleaning services are 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 2014 by Eric and Starr Smith.
Distinctions: Mr. Clean Power Washing is a member of the PWNA and holds a MHIC license.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer staining, sealing, or interior window cleaning. Exterior window cleaning is not offered as a standalone service.
Minimum Job: A minimum of $325 is required.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
• Best Pick Reports, LLC, is a free reference for local homeowners that has informed home service buying decisions since 1997.
• Our mission is to create meaningful connections between service-based businesses and consumers by recognizing the best local providers and sharing these names with homeowners via free, easy to use, and trustworthy resources.
• We track businesses across dozens of home service categories and showcase Certified Best Pick companies in our semiannual report, which is posted online and mailed to homes in metropolitan communities across the nation.
• Our qualification process incorporates annual review analysis to ensure every Best Pick company maintains a high quality of workmanship and customer service.
• Our report features companies that have consistently received positive reviews from their customers, so you can be confident that they’ve been vetted by homeowners like you. We also verify that companies in our guide hold proper licenses and insurance.
• Companies cannot buy a good rating; they must earn it by having many satisfied customers and good reviews. Our extensive research makes us the most reliable resource for finding reputable home service companies.
• We know we’re not the only organization that rates home service providers. So what makes us different? In short, it’s our commitment to identifying the best companies through ongoing, verifiable research.
• We rely on a combination of customer surveys, Google reviews, proper insurance and licenses, and company financial data to inform our ratings.
• We’ve spent over 25 years refining the way we do research so that our ratings remain exceptionally reliable.
• Another way we’re different: companies cannot buy their way into our report. We do not sell advertising space, improved ratings, or better placement in our report; instead, companies are listed in order based on their longevity as a Certified Best Pick company.
• Inclusion is by invitation alone, and that invitation is extended only if a company has met our strict qualifying criteria.
• In the same way that homeowners benefit from Best Pick Reports, qualifying companies also benefit from the promotion, which creates a win-win environment for the company and potential customer.
• Most participating companies pay a fee each time they receive a new customer from Best Pick Reports, though some companies instead pay a percent of the completed job amount. These payments cover the cost of our vetting process and allow us to distribute our publication at no cost to homeowners.
• For each Best Pick Reports publication, we conduct independent consumer satisfaction surveys every year with homeowners who had firsthand experience with home service providers. If needed, we also analyze Google reviews.
• Our internal surveying is an independent process conducted through our own phone surveying platform or through our sister research company GuildQuality, an industry leader in consumer satisfaction surveying.
• We develop a company’s rating according to the survey and review data we have about that company spanning the past three years; the company’s financial standing; and proper insurance and licenses, which we verify through the issuing bodies.
• Every Best Pick company must maintain extremely high satisfaction rates. At least 80 percent of a company’s customer responses through in-house surveying must be positive (on a scale of 1-5, a positive experience is a rating of 4 or 5). If Google reviews are referenced, the company must have an overall 4.0 or greater rating over the past three years.
• Once the research process is complete, companies excelling in each category have the option of participating in the Best Pick program, authorizing us to include their name in our semiannual publication and on our website.
• Companies new to Best Pick Reports must meet our qualification standards and have a minimum of one year of service in the book area or a strong franchise history.
• Companies must maintain the same satisfaction rates every year after qualifying to continue their inclusion in the Best Pick program.
• The exact review count spanning the last three years of review data for each company can be found to the left of the company’s profile on bestpickreports.com.
• When we list a company as a Best Pick, we absolutely believe it to be the case, and that belief is continuously confirmed by the enormously positive experiences that homeowners report.
• The Best Pick Guarantee provides homeowners with security and confidence when hiring Best Pick companies, which are the best of the best; however, we also know that no company is perfect.
• In the event that the work of a Best Pick company is unsatisfactory, the Best Pick Guarantee gives registered homeowners the ability to seek remediation in the form of additional service to resolve the issue and, when appropriate, financial restitution.
• Throughout the remediation process, we will act as third-party mediator, advocating for a satisfactory solution for all parties. In the event that an issue requires monetary reimbursement, we will determine the amount and the method of the guarantee payment, up to $2,500.
• To register and see full terms and conditions, please visit bestpickreports.com/guarantee.
• Prior to publication, we verify general liability insurance and, when required by the state, workers’ compensation insurance for all Best Pick companies.
• We also verify trade licenses required by the state by referring directly to the appropriate state authority.
• If a company does not have the proper licenses or insurance, it is not eligible to be a Best Pick participant—even if its reviews justify such designation.
• If you complete a customer satisfaction survey, your responses may appear on the company’s public profile.
• Names are listed in a first name, last initial format.
• We will not share your specific survey response information or contact information with any party outside of the company for which you completed a survey without your consent or unless directed to do so by a court of law.
• There are many reasons why a company may not be listed in our report. It is possible the company did not receive a good rating, does not conduct a considerable amount of business in the geographic area, or chose not to participate in the Best Pick program.
• We may also not be familiar with all companies in a metro area and would be happy to consider a nomination. If you would like to nominate your favorite service provider, please visit bestpickreports.com/ nominate-a-company.
• If a specific category is not listed in Best Pick Reports, you can visit our blog at bestpickreports.com/blog to learn about various home projects, tips on hiring a contractor, and more.
Clean out junk and debris from house and yard
Clean carpets and upholstery
Clean air ducts
Check air filters for cleaning or replacement
Set ceiling fan blades to run counterclockwise
Scalp lawn
Aerate lawn, fertilize cool-season grass, and apply pre-emergent herbicide
Mow lawn at least once a week
Inspect for termites
Check roof for leaks and damaged shingles
Clean gutters and downspouts
Start up sprinkler system and pool
Clean outside structures such as awnings, walkways, and storage sheds
Wash windows
Clean HVAC condenser
Lubricate garage door and check door alignment
Inspect basement or crawl space for leaks, standing water, and mold
Check plumbing for leaks, rust, and damaged pipes
Drain and refill water heater
Check air filters for cleaning or replacement
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Test GFCI outlets
Clean refrigerator coils
Fertilize warm-season grass
Water lawn—average one inch of water per week
Mow lawn every seven to ten days
Inspect trees for dead branches as well as pest and disease issues
Pressure wash siding and fence
Touch up paint
Restain or reseal deck
Disclaimer: If you live in an area that experiences extremely warm or cold temperatures, consult with a local Best Pick for customized home maintenance suggestions.
Inspect and clean fireplace and chimney
Pest-proof home in anticipation of colder weather
Inspect and clean furnace
Check air filters for cleaning or replacement
Set ceiling fan blades to run clockwise
Check insulation levels in attic and basement or crawl space
Organize closets and garage
Seed lawn, fertilize cool-season grass, and apply pre-emergent herbicide
Check windows and doors for gaps; caulk or weatherstrip as needed
Prune trees and remove dead branches
Check roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles
Clean gutters and downspouts
Wash windows
Shut down pool and sprinkler system
Remove leaves from and clean outside structures such as awnings, walkways, and storage sheds
Lubricate garage door and check door alignment
Check bathrooms and basements for mold and moisture
Check air filters for cleaning or replacement
Inspect electrical system
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Clean refrigerator coils
Make sure family members know winter storm plan
Insulate exposed pipes and spigots
Check for cracks in driveway, home foundation, and patio
Check for leaning trees near home
Inspect landscaping and prepare for spring
Inspect fence and replace loose or rotten boards as well as rusty or worn gate hardware
Disclaimer: If you live in an area that experiences extremely warm or cold temperatures, consult with a local Best Pick for customized home maintenance suggestions.
The majority of our Best Pick companies are identified through our due diligence research. We also accept nominations from homeowners and companies. All companies must qualify through our rigorous vetting process to be awarded the Best Pick status and invited to the Best Pick program. A company cannot buy its way in. Because of our qualification method and invitation-only certification process, you can be confident that every Best Pick has been rated as exceptional in quality and customer service.
We develop a company’s rating based on review and survey data; the company’s financial standing; and proper licenses and insurance. Every Best Pick company must maintain extremely high satisfaction rates. At least 80 percent of a company’s customer responses through in-house surveying must be positive (on a scale of 1-5, a positive experience is a rating of 4 or 5). If Google reviews are referenced, the company must have an overall 4.0 or greater rating over the past three years. Only qualified companies are invited into the Best Pick program.
To send Best Pick Reports to the areas that our companies service, we obtain basic homeowner information like name and address from publicly available sources such as county records and property data providers, similar to how sites like whitepages. com or zillow.com obtain data. We
take your privacy very seriously and will never share or sell this data.
The rigorous nature of our qualification process means that many companies do not qualify. Since all Best Pick companies must requalify each year, it is also possible for a company to lose its Best Pick status if it fails to meet our standards during our annual qualification cycle.
A particular company may not be listed in Best Pick Reports for a variety of reasons. It is possible the company did not receive a good rating, does not conduct a considerable amount of business in the geographic area, does not have the required insurance and licenses, or chose not to participate in the Best Pick program. Additionally, we may not be familiar with every company in a market, in which case we’d be happy to consider a nomination.
Companies that meet our requirements have the option of participating in the Best Pick program. Those that choose to participate receive the designation and authorize us to include their name in our semiannual publication and on our website. These companies pay a fee that covers the cost of our qualification research and allows us to distribute our publication at no cost to homeowners. Companies cannot buy their way in. Participation in the Best Pick program is by invitation only and is completely voluntary.
We’ve been matching top-quality companies with homeowners since 1997, and our research shows that the Best Pick companies we recommend have extremely high satisfaction rates from their customers. Through Best Pick Reports, you can also access useful information on home repairs and home service companies, so you can be educated when reaching out to companies for your next project.
All Best Pick companies are covered by our Best Pick Guarantee. Register for free at bestpickreports.com/guarantee, and we will step in and mediate a solution if you have any problems with the quality of work provided by your Best Pick. If no agreeable solution can be achieved, we will refund your purchase up to $2,500. Read full terms at bestpickreports.com/terms.
To ensure we’re matching homeowners in our service areas with Best Pick companies, we use tracking numbers in our publications. Also, when you call a company from our book, website, or app, the company will know that you’re calling through Best Pick Reports due to this unique number.
HOW
Phone: 877-906-7575
Fax: 404-355-7896
Mail: 225 Ottley Dr NE #200 Atlanta, GA 30324
Email: helpdesk@bestpickreports.com
Best Pick Reports is a free, annual guide that features independently qualified and recommended local home service providers. With Best Pick Reports, you receive free, objective, third-party data that enables you to identify top-quality companies servicing your neighborhood.
For more information, please visit www.bestpickreports.com
Our sister company GuildQuality is the building and home improvement industry’s leader in third-party customer satisfaction surveying. For each Best Pick Reports publication, GuildQuality conducts extensive consumer satisfaction research to review home service providers, and we use the data collected to provide testimonials and objective, third-party ratings of companies in dozens of categories.
For more information, please visit www.guildquality.com.
Our parent company, EverCommerce, is the nation’s leading service commerce platform, supporting the success of B2B technology and service companies as well as the tens of thousands of home improvement businesses they serve across the country.
For more information, please visit www.evercommerce.com
Best Pick Reports Staff
Operations
Christopher Brady
Lauren Barron
Patrick Recchia
Ryan LaMotte
Production
Bekah Goudy
Cate Lightburn
Research & Qualification
Amber Davis
Brittany Mahaffey
Malone Walker
Editors
Julia Mann Designer
Omar Ghuzlan
Your Service Team
Customer Experience
Rudy McLaughlin
Victoria Cheshire
Account Managers
Adam Greene
Amanda McClellan
Brandy Coble
Kaley Whitenton
Homeowner Support
Jennifer Cline
877-906-7575
helpdesk@bestpickreports.com
