Massachusetts: Boston North Shore | Best Pick Reports by Ignite Visibility

North Shore

Quality Home Services Guide

Certifying the Best Home Service Companies Since 1997

Your satisfaction is guaranteed Hire from this guide for your next house project and get the peace of mind that comes with: Guaranteed work up to $2,500 Top-rated companies based on real reviews Verified insurance and trade licenses

2026

11th Annual Fall Edition Independent Consumer Research

The Best Pick Difference The Best Pick® certification has represented excellence in service for 29 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.

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:

Quality You Can Count On Features a short list of top local companies and their accurate ratings

Stands behind recommendations with a service guarantee

Customer Satisfaction Research Rates companies based on customer feedback

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

Credential Verification Communicates with insurance agencies to verify coverage annually

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The Trusted Standard For Hiring Home Services Companies Getting referrals from neighbors is helpful, but a limited number of referrals doesn’t tell the whole story. Online reviews can be skewed by vocal minorities or purchased ratings. That’s why we go further. We analyze three years of customer surveys and online reviews in addition to verifying each company’s financial standing, state-required licensing, and insurance. Companies can’t buy their way into our guide; the only way they earn the Certified Best Pick® designation is through consistently satisfied customers and stellar reputations. When you call a Best Pick company, you’re calling someone we’ve thoroughly researched and stand behind.

The Best Pick Certification Process 1

RESEARCH

RATING

We rely on online reviews, independent surveys, and company financial data to identify top local companies in home service categories.

CREDENTIALS

GUARANTEE 3

RESEARCH

PUBLICATION

CREDENTIALS

We verify that companies carry all state-required licenses and insurance.

INVITATION

We publish Certified Best Pick® companies semiannually. Companies pay a fee for research and publication distribution.

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.

INVITATION

Inclusion is by invitation alone and is extended only if the company has met our qualification standards.

PUBLICATION

RATING

GUARANTEE

Companies are backed by the Best Pick Guarantee, giving homeowners security and confidence when hiring.

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“I just used the book for plumbing and also for heating and cooling. I found all the contractors I needed and was very happy.”

Bradley H. | Arlington, VA

Steven C. | Allen, TX

Derekh C. | Bethesda, MD

Your Trusted Home Services Guide—Now Better Online Finding quality contractors just got easier with our redesigned website For nearly 30 years, you’ve trusted Best Pick Reports to connect you with certified home service professionals. Now, we’re bringing that same trusted research and rigorous vetting process to an enhanced online experience at BestPickReports.com.

What’s New on Our Website

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View verified credentials, customer ratings, service areas, hours of operation, and direct contact options— all in one place.

Enhanced Filtering & Comparison Tools Sort, filter by services offered, and compare multiple companies side-byside before making your choice.

The Same Trusted Standards, Better Access Our certification process remains unchanged—we still conduct independent research, verify credentials annually, and analyze years of customer feedback. Now you can access these trusted recommendations anytime, anywhere.

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IMPORTANT: To be eligible for Best Pick Guarantee coverage, always call Best Pick companies through the phone numbers listed in our guide, website, or app.

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Table of Contents Air Conditioning & Heating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Movers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Animal Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Outdoor Kitchens & Living Spaces. . . . . . . . . . 52

Appliance Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Painters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Basement Remodeling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Paver Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling. . . . . . . . . . . 46

Pest & Termite Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Bathtub & Shower Conversions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Plumbers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Chimneys & Fireplaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Pressure Washing & Window Cleaning . . . . . . 84

Concrete Leveling & Raising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Roof Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Deck Building & Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Roofers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Door & Window Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Sewer/Drain Cleaning & Repair. . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Drain/Sewer Cleaning & Repair. . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Shower & Bathtub Conversions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Dryer Vent Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Siding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Electricians. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Termite & Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Fences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Water, Mold, Fire & Storm Damage Restoration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Fire Damage Restoration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Fireplaces & Chimneys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Flooring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Foundation Repair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Garage Doors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Gutter & Gutter Guard Installation. . . . . . . . . . . 35 Gutter Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Heating & Air Conditioning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Home Remodeling & Additions. . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling. . . . . . . . . . . 46

Waterproofing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Wildlife Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Window & Door Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing . . . . . . 84 Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Homeowner Protection Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Seasonal Maintenance Checklist. . . . . . . . . . . 90 FAQs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Quick Reference Sheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Masonry - Brick & Stone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Mold Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

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 determinations regarding peripheral or associated services a company offers. Since insurance and licenses can expire and can be canceled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. When any call is placed to a Provider through the telephone number published in the book, standard caller identification information is collected, including the caller’s phone number and the name to which the line is registered, and the entire call is recorded. The recording and a text transcript are temporarily stored by Best Pick Reports. Your use of the information available in any of the Best Pick Reports publications in which this disclaimer appears shall constitute your acceptance of these terms. Please feel free to contact Best Pick Reports with any questions regarding this disclaimer or the reports. Copyright © 1997 - 2026 by Best Pick Reports, LLC. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, quoted, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Best Pick Reports, LLC. This report and research methodology are fully protected by the law.

Appliance Repair Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ UltraFix Appliance Repair

978-490-1864

3rd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON APPLIANCE REPAIR SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • 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.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Appliance Repair UltraFix Appliance Repair

978-490-1864

“At UltraFix Appliance Repair, we guarantee the high professionalism and quality of experienced technicians who can make a thorough diagnostic and repair. The technology used at UltraFix is the most advanced, and our technicians are there for you at the first call. We are here to provide you an exceptional service.” Aydin Amiraslanov | Owner

Warranty: The company provides a 90-day warranty on parts, a 30-day warranty on labor, and up to a 1-year warranty on refrigerator sealed system repair.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10098110001001

Services Offered: UltraFix Appliance Repair maintains and repairs all major brands of residential and commercial appliances, including refrigerators and freezers, ice makers, wine coolers, electric and gas ovens and stoves, cooktops, dishwashers, washers, and dryers.

538 3 0 2 7

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Company History: The local company was founded in 2019 by Aydin Amiraslanov.

Trade License(s) Not Required

Employee Information: Employees wear shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and are drug tested.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Services Not Offered: UltraFix does not service small, handheld appliances.

Minimum Job: A $135 labor minimum is required.

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-490-1864 for service

The Best Pick Reports blog offers home improvement tips with advice from real experts in the field: bestpickreports.com/blog.

Basement Remodeling Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Owens Corning Basement Finishing System of New England

978-241-6286

■ Ulta Home Improvements

978-503-3849

8th year as a Best Pick

2nd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON BASEMENT REMODELING SERVICES • Basement remodeling and renovation • Design/build services • General contractor services TOP CONSUMER TIPS • The basement must be dry before remodeling begins. Even small amounts of water can damage carpets and furniture or cause mold or mildew growth. Have any past basement moisture issues addressed before the remodeling work starts. • Remodeling work can last from several days to several months. 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.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies are required to register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation and must hold a Construction Supervisor License issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety.

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Basement Remodeling Owens Corning Basement Finishing System of New England

978-241-6286

“At Owens Corning Basement Finishing System of New England, we understand that investing in any home remodeling project is a big decision. Our team of experienced and highly knowledgeable remodeling professionals will make even the most complicated projects run smoothly.” Paul Deguglielmo | General Manager

Warranty: Most products carry a lifetime warranty. Company History: The company was founded in 2002. Distinctions: Owens Corning Basement Finishing System of New England received the Excellence in Customer Service award from Owens Corning eight years in a row.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100851010001004

Services Offered: Owens Corning Basement Finishing System of New England is a full-service basement finishing contractor providing all structural, electrical, and plumbing services needed to complete basement projects.

57 7 0 0 3

Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 137943, CS-079893

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-241-6286 for service

Ulta Home Improvements

978-503-3849

“If you’re looking for high-end remodeling work to transform your home, Ulta Home is the company you can trust. With over 19 years of industry experience, we proudly serve the Greater Boston and Metro West community. We’re committed to delivering quality work with honesty and integrity. Your satisfaction is our priority.” Bruno Aragao | President

Warranty: Ulta Home Improvements offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee. Company History: The locally owned company started in 2014. Ulta Home Improvements states that its core values and mission to serve every customer with excellence inform each job. Distinctions: Ulta Home Improvements is A+ Rated and Accredited with the BBB, an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm, and a member of the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston. Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1009811000100

Services Offered: Ulta Home Improvements is a full-service residential remodeling company. The company specializes in customized functional solutions for basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. Ulta also offers professional painting and flooring installation. Estimates are free.

87 1 1 0 0

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 183615, CS-121537

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-503-3849 for service

Bathtub & Shower Conversions Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Long Home

978-487-5857

■ Jacuzzi Bath Remodel by Capital

978-616-6670

■ Kohler by Rite Window

978-203-3555

■ BATH FITTER Boston South

978-763-4365

5th year as a Best Pick

3rd year as a Best Pick

2nd year as a Best Pick

1st year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON BATHTUB & SHOWER CONVERSION SERVICES • Bathtub and shower conversion services • One-day bathroom remodeling services • Design services • Shower and tub replacement • Cabinet installation • Tile installation • Countertop installation • Fixture installation TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Tub-to-shower conversion projects take about a day to complete. A bathtub that is already surrounded by walls can be replaced with a shower relatively easily since the drains and water lines are already 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.

• 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. 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. Instead, the project’s focus will be on the smaller details that are easier to change out. • The key to a great tub and shower conversion is a reputable, experienced contractor. Interview and request bids from at least three companies, and 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.

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Bathtub & Shower Conversions Long Home

978-487-5857

“For over eight decades, families have trusted Long with their home improvement projects. Our philosophy is simple: provide outstanding customer service, install quality products with expert craftsmanship, and make it all easy and affordable.” John DePaola | CEO

Warranty: Long Home offers up to a 50-year warranty on roofing and up to a 50-year warranty on bath and shower remodels. Company History: The company started in 1945. Distinctions: The company 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.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10089410011005

Services Offered: Long Home specializes in tub-to-shower conversions, shower and bathtub remodels, and aging-in-place options. The company also offers asphalt shingle, metal, flat, luxury shingle, and designer roofs. Estimates are free.

1946 87 21 14 111

Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 187510, CSSL-106187

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-487-5857 for service

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel by Capital

978-616-6670

“Founded in 2005, Jacuzzi Bath Remodel by Capital is an award-winning, full-service bath remodeling specialist. We pride ourselves on fantastic customer service and top-notch craftsmanship. We are a trusted business throughout the Greater Boston area, and we would love the opportunity to prove our dedication to you!” David Arrowsmith | President

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10083510021008

Services Offered: Jacuzzi Bath Remodel by Capital is a full-service bath remodeling firm offering a full range of bathroom remodeling services, including bathtub replacements, walk-in tub replacements and installations, shower remodels, tub and shower conversions, wall surround installations and replacement, accessibility solutions, and free, in-home design consultations.

177 11 4 4 16

Warranty: The company offers a three-year labor warranty and honors lifetime manufacturers’ warranties.

Rating: 4.6 out of 5

Company History: Jacuzzi Bath Remodel by Capital is a family-owned-andoperated company founded in 2005.

HIC 172146, CS-090743

Distinctions: Jacuzzi Bath Remodel by Capital holds memberships with the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and the Certified Contractors Network and is A+ rated and accredited with the BBB. Employee Information: Uniformed employees drive marked vehicles and undergo background checks.

Verified Trade License(s) Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-616-6670 for service

Bathtub & Shower Conversions Kohler by Rite Window

978-203-3555

“Rite Window has built a strong legacy of customer satisfaction and service since its founding in August 2000. Over the years, we’ve proudly helped more than 40,000 homeowners across New England improve their homes. Our commitment is simple: Deliver exceptional products, professionally installed, for the right price.” Ted Castonguay | Founder

Warranty: Kohler LuxStone and walk-in bath products have a limited lifetime warranty.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1008251000310010

Services Offered: Kohler by Rite Window installs Kohler LuxStone shower and walk-in bath products. Services include one-day bathroom makeovers, bathtub installations, and tub-to-shower conversions. Other services include window, entry, and patio door replacement. Estimates are free, and financing is available.

265 16 1 9 33

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Company History: The local company was established in 2000 and is now part of the national Renuity Home organization.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: Kohler by Rite Window is A+ Rated and Accredited with the BBB, a HomeAdvisor Top Rated and Elite Service Professional, and a GuildQuality member.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms.

Services Not Offered: The company provides retrofit services and does not install products in new locations. Repair services are not offered.

HIC 212123, CS-070253

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-203-3555 for service

BATH FITTER Boston South

978-763-4365

“Transform your bathroom with BATH FITTER, your local expert in custom bath and shower solutions. We own every step of the process, from manufacturing premium products to installation. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your bathtub, install a sleek new shower, or make your bathroom more accessible, we’re here to help.” The BATH FITTER Team

Warranty: The company offers a transferable lifetime warranty on its bath and shower remodeling solutions.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100961100201001

Services Offered: BATH FITTER Boston South provides residential bathroom remodeling services, including custom bath and shower solutions, bathtub replacements, shower installations, tub-to-shower conversions, walk-in showers, and custom-fit bath and shower upgrades. The company also offers bathtub and shower wall systems, accessories, and its proprietary PermaFit solution, which installs a new tub or shower and wall system directly over an existing fixture without demolition.

142 2 3 0 1

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 191535, CS-100386

Company History: BATH FITTER has 40+ years of experience in bath and shower remodeling and has completed millions of installations throughout North America.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: BATH FITTER never subcontracts. All work is completed by trained, certified, and insured employees.

Best Pick Guaranteed

Additional Information: Many bath and shower remodeling projects are completed with no demolition and minimal disruption. Estimates are free, and financing options are available.

Verified Workers’ Comp

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-763-4365 for service

Chimneys & Fireplaces Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Master Chimney Sweepers

978-296-5560

■ Chim-Chimney Sweepers

978-207-3574

■ GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-422-1233

10th year as a Best Pick

5th year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON CHIMNEY & FIREPLACE SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly to ensure its safety and efficiency. Creosote buildup or debris from nesting animals in your chimney can make it unsafe to use. • If the flue liner has gaps and openings where creosote can accumulate, the liner must be repaired or replaced. 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. • Limit creosote buildup by always opening the flue 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 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 from rain, critters, and other hazards. Uncapped chimneys offer warm, protected spaces to critters, but their nests pose a fire hazard. Chimney caps are also important for safety. They help prevent sparks and stray embers from igniting the roof or flying down into your yard.

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Chimneys & Fireplaces Master Chimney Sweepers

978-296-5560

“’Providing peace of mind since 1977’. Our employees are some of the most experienced career chimney sweeps in the industry. This allows us to provide the best experience possible and create a lifelong relationship with every customer.” Tom, Lydia, and Bill Heffernan | Owners

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10098110001000

Services Offered: Master Chimney Sweepers offers chimney cleaning, sweeping, relining, and Level 1 and Level 2 video chimney inspections. The company also offers gas fireplace services, drone inspections, chimney cap installation, damper installation, tuck-pointing, brickwork, and chimney repair.

675 8 1 2 2

Warranty: Master Chimney Sweepers offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Company History: The company started in 1977.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: The company is a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) and the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep Guild (MCSG). Sweeps are certified by NCSG, the National Fireplace Institute (NFI), and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles. Additional Information: Master Chimney sells products by HY-C, Gelco, Olympia, and M&G DuraVent.

HIC 102515, CSSL-099841

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-296-5560 for service

Chim-Chimney Sweepers

978-207-3574

“Our goal is to provide unsurpassed excellence and honest service on every job, large or small. We have been a trusted name for 47 years.” John “Jack” Nothardt | President

Company History: John “Jack” Nothardt is a Massachusetts licensed Construction Supervisor and started the local, family-owned-and-operated company right out of college in 1979. Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles. Additional Information: Chim-Chimney Sweepers sells and services most brands of chimney products.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1009211003100

Services Offered: Chim-Chimney Sweepers cleans, sweeps, repairs, rebuilds, relines, and inspects chimneys for residential and commercial customers. The company’s additional services include chimney cap and damper installation, tuck-pointing, fireplace repair, wildlife removal, and masonry services.

72 1 1 2 2

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 112243, CS-105144

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-207-3574 for service

Chimneys & Fireplaces GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-422-1233

“For more than 50 years, our team has been delivering projects built on quality, integrity, and craftsmanship. Our work is backed by our Forever Whoever warranty, as well as hundreds of 5-star reviews. ‘Your Home, Your Priorities. Our Expertise.’” Joey Fernandes | General Manager

Warranty: GF Sprague honors manufacturers’ warranties and offers the “Forever Whoever” warranty, which is a lifetime transferable workmanship warranty. Company History: GF Sprague has been serving the community for over 50 years, since its founding in 1969. Distinctions: GF Sprague won a 2024 GuildQuality Guildmaster Award and was named Company of the Year in 2011 by the Certified Contractors Network. Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks. The company trains employees through its “Green to Gold” mentoring program, pairing apprentices with experienced technicians.

Services Not Offered: The company does not offer chimney cleaning or work on fireplaces.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100915100101002

Services Offered: GF Sprague specializes in home exterior projects from repairs to full replacements, including roofing, siding, gutters, chimneys, slate, copper, and windows.

383 22 3 2 9

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 211004, CS-116075

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-422-1233 for service

Seal potential entry points around your home’s foundation and windows. Annual professional pest inspections can catch potential infestations before they become serious problems.

Concrete Leveling & Raising Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Erickson Foundation Solutions

978-391-2504

3rd year as a Best Pick

■ Groundworks 978-890-2318 2nd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON CONCRETE LEVELING & RAISING SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • 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. • 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.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Concrete Leveling & Raising Erickson Foundation Solutions

978-391-2504

“Erickson Foundation Solutions proudly serves as the exclusive authorized contractor for the Supportworks PolyLevel polyurethane foam concrete leveling system in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. When it comes to sinking concrete, don’t replace it. Raise it and get back on solid ground with Erickson Foundation Solutions.” Matt Erickson | Owner

Warranty: Erickson offers a five-year warranty against concrete settlement of greater than one-quarter inch. Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 1979. Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks.

Services Not Offered: Erickson does not offer concrete replacement or stamping.

Minimum Job: Jobs start at $2,000.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10092310011004

Services Offered: Erickson Foundation Solutions specializes in concrete stabilization, lifting, and void fill as well as radon testing and mitigation. Other services include foundation repair, wall stabilization and piering, crawl space encapsulation and floor joist leveling, basement waterproofing, humidity and mold control, sump pumps, and air quality control solutions. Estimates are free.

350 12 2 2 15

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-391-2504 for service

Groundworks 978-890-2318 “Your Boston home deserves expert care. Our Trained & Certified experts deliver lasting concrete repairs and leveling for safety and to restore the beauty of your patio, driveway, and more. We offer long-term warranties, free estimates, and no-interest financing. From start to finish, our Employee-Owners offer service you can trust.” The Groundworks Team

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10097210001001

Services Offered: Groundworks specializes in lifting sinking and settled concrete slabs, including sidewalks, patios, steps, driveways, pool decks, and concrete floors. Additionally, Groundworks provides foundation repair solutions, including foundation pier systems, wall anchor systems and straightening, and foundation wall repair systems. The company also offers basement waterproofing and crawl space repair services.

363 7 0 0 5

Warranty: Groundworks offers nationally backed transferable warranties.

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Company History: The company was established in 1996.

Trade License(s) Not Required

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and pass background checks and drug tests.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Additional Information: Many repairs are reviewed by staff engineers. Groundworks offers clear, written estimates and no-interest financing options.

Services Not Offered: Groundworks does not install new foundations or pour concrete.

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-890-2318 for service

Deck Building & Maintenance Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-278-3859

■ DP Custom Homes & Renovations

978-720-9231

■ Plum ProExteriors

978-404-8473

6th year as a Best Pick

2nd year as a Best Pick

1st year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON DECK BUILDING & MAINTENANCE SERVICES • Custom deck design • Deck construction • Deck maintenance and repair TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Common deck materials include wood, wood composite, and PVC. Popular wood species used for decks include cedar, redwood, tropical hardwoods like ipe and cumaru, southern yellow pine, and Douglas fir. Popular brands for wood composite or PVC deck products include Trex, AZEK, and Fiberon. • Pressure-treated pine is a popular, cost-effective choice for new deck construction. It’s a lowmaintenance product that has been treated with preservatives to resist rot, but it isn’t maintenance-free. It should be sealed regularly to maintain its water resistance. • Brand-new decks will need to cure before any wood treatment application. This usually equals about four to eight weeks of dry weather before

the initial sealing. Many contractors will do this initial sealing. If yours doesn’t, set a reminder for yourself so you don’t forget. Periodic cleaning and sealing will keep the deck sturdy and looking good for years. • Sealant waterproofs the deck, and stain provides color and UV protection. It’s best to apply sealant and stain separately. There are oil-, water-, and silicone-based sealants and water- and oilbased stains. • Bird droppings, fallen leaves, and mildew can all stain or discolor a wood deck. Candle wax poses a special threat to wood decks because it’s virtually impossible to remove. Deck cleaning will address preexisting stains. A sealed deck will resist staining better than raw, unsealed wood. • In most areas, a deck build requires a construction permit because it modifies the structure of the house. Most contractors will handle the permit application process for you. Some homeowners’ associations also require project review and approval.

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Deck Building & Maintenance Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-278-3859

“Founded in 2005, Capital Construction Contracting is an award-winning exterior contracting specialist. We pride ourselves on fantastic customer service and top-notch craftsmanship. We are a trusted business throughout the Greater Boston area, and we would love the opportunity to prove our dedication to you!” David Arrowsmith | Owner & President

Warranty: Capital Construction Contracting honors the comprehensive Trex pro warranty.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1007251002410017

Services Offered: Capital Construction Contracting is an exterior home improvement company specializing in building custom decks in a variety of materials and styles. The company also offers deck railings, deck restoration services, siding, and full roof replacement. Free estimates and zero-percent financing are available.

105 7 3 6 24

Rating: 4.1 out of 5

Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was started in 2005.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: Capital Construction Contracting is Boston’s only distinguished Trex Pro Platinum Contractor, a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, a GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor, A+ rated and accredited with the BBB, and a member of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and the CCN.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.

HIC 172146, CS-090743

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-278-3859 for service

DP Custom Homes & Renovations

978-720-9231

“At DP Custom Homes & Renovations, we believe that innovation comes from a deep understanding of each client’s needs. We listen carefully and work closely with you to bring your dream project to life. We pride ourselves on our personalized service, expert craftsmanship, and top-quality products delivered on time and on budget.” David Piazzarollo | Owner

Warranty: The company offers limited lifetime manufacturers’ warranties and a one-year labor warranty. Company History: The local company was established in 2022. Distinctions: DP Custom Homes & Renovations is accredited by the BBB and holds an A+ rating. The company is a member of the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston (BRAGB) and the Professional Remodeling Organization (PRO). Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms and shoe covers, and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Minimum Job: Projects start at $5,000.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10001000100

Services Offered: DP Custom Homes & Renovations specializes in custom decks and outdoor living spaces. The company offers design/build services for new decks, deck expansions, composite upgrades, refinishing, and custom elements such as lighting and seating.

43 0 0 0 0

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 209267, CS-117333

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-720-9231 for service

Deck Building & Maintenance Plum ProExteriors

978-404-8473

“When it comes to your home’s exterior, Plum ProExteriors has you covered from ground to roof! Our professional team has been providing certified exterior services for over a decade. Let us share our expertise with you! Exceptional standards, fantastic customer service, and excellent value for money.” Yukhym Slyvka | President

Warranty: The company offers a three-year labor warranty and honors manufacturer-backed warranties.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10096310010100

Services Offered: Plum ProExteriors provides residential and commercial deck installation and deck replacement services throughout Massachusetts and New England. The company builds decks using composite, PVC, pressure-treated wood, natural wood, and Brazilian IPE materials and creates customized outdoor living spaces.

107 3 1 0 0

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Company History: Plum ProExteriors is a local, family-owned company that has served the community for more than a decade.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: Plum ProExteriors is certified by industry-leading brands including James Hardie, GAF, CertainTeed, TimberTech, Harvey, and Andersen. The company is A+ Rated and Accredited with the BBB and has 5-star ratings across multiple review sites.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles and wear uniforms. Additional Information: Financing options are available.

HIC 193823, CS-115189

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-404-8473 for service

Every Best Pick company must maintain very high customer satisfaction rates over the past three years from either our own internal research or Google reviews. Read more about the qualification process in the back of this guidebook.

Drain/Sewer Cleaning & Repair Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-309-6223

■ Cranney Home Services

978-607-0842

10th year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON DRAIN/SEWER 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • 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. • The mineral buildup from hard water can clog and corrode your plumbing system. If your area has hard water, a whole-house water softener system can help. • While chemical drain cleaners can effectively remove clogs, they are corrosive and can damage

pipes over time and with repeated use. Be careful with plungers, too. The suction from a plunger can damage seals and cause leaks. Try using a drain snake or other alternative drain cleaning methods first. Many plumbers recommend the regular use of enzyme cleaners for preventative maintenance. 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. • Sewer lines can break or clog from corrosion, shifting soil, and tree roots. They can also break due to old age and problems in the municipal waste infrastructure. You will need the help of a professional to diagnose and solve these issues. 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. This durable plastic is slick, which helps prevent clogs.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies must hold a Plumbing Business License issued by the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

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Drain/Sewer Cleaning & Repair MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-309-6223

“We’re committed to offering honest answers to all of your plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical, and drain cleaning questions, and we provide cost-effective, permanent solutions as well as reliable 24/7 live customer service to keep your home healthy and safe.” Fred Webster, Jr. | Owner

Warranty: Installations and replacements have a one-year parts-and-labor warranty. Customer satisfaction is guaranteed.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093310011003

Services Offered: MillTown offers residential and commercial drain cleaning and sewer repair services, including clog removal, snaking, trenchless pipe repair, rodding, camera inspections, sewer line replacement, jetting, root removal, leak detection and repair, and excavation. The company also offers comprehensive plumbing, heating, A/C, and electrical services.

1571 53 11 12 44

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1979.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: MillTown is fully licensed and insured.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Verified Workers’ Comp

Services Not Offered: The company does not pump or repair septic tanks.

2255

Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-309-6223 for service

Cranney Home Services

978-607-0842

“Cranney Home Services is your trusted one-stop shop for keeping your home running smoothly. With over 40 years of experience, our skilled technicians handle heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, and drain needs with reliable, lasting solutions to keep your home comfortable, safe, and worry-free year-round. One call truly does it all.” The Cranney Team

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093410011002

Services Offered: Cranney Home Services offers residential drain and sewer services, including clog removal, drain repairs, sewer drain clearing, hydro-jetting, snaking, root removal, camera inspection, sewer repair, trenchless pipe relining, and sewer replacement. The company also offers leak detection and repair, pipe and valve repair, cast iron replacement, and full plumbing services.

2486 98 22 16 64

Warranty: Cranney Home Services offers two-year parts-and-labor warranties on all work performed.

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Company History: Established in 1982, Cranney Home Services has served North Shore, Merrimack Valley, and Greater Boston homeowners for over 40 years.

4397

Distinctions: Cranney Home Services is a winner of the 2025 and 2026 Best of Salem News award and the 2025 BONS Home Best of Northshore award.

Verified Trade License(s) Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-607-0842 for service

Dryer Vent Cleaning Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Ned's Dryer Vent Cleaning, a division of Ned's Home 1st year as a Best Pick

978-404-8361

Educational Content COMMON DRYER VENT CLEANING SERVICES • Dryer vent cleaning • Dryer vent inspection and repair • Duct cleaning, sanitization, and sealing • Duct leakage testing and repair TOP CONSUMER TIPS • 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.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Dryer Vent Cleaning Ned’s Dryer Vent Cleaning, a division of Ned’s Home

978-404-8361

“For over 60 years, Ned’s Home has been protecting homes with reliable exterior services. Ned’s Dryer Vent Cleaning helps prevent dangerous lint buildup to support a safer home and better airflow.” Ned Stevens | Founder

Warranty: All work is 100% 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’s Home employees and are covered by full workers’ compensation and liability insurance.

Minimum Job: Ned’s Dryer Vent Cleaning requires a $110 job minimum.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100799100321007

Services Offered: Ned’s Home provides gutter cleaning, new gutter installation, and gutter repair as well as complete power washing services, exterior window cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, underground drain snaking, roof cleaning, chimney cap installation, and full mosquito and tick control services. The company offers services 7 days a week and free estimates.

910 99 34 23 86

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-404-8361 for service

The kitchen work triangle arranges the stove, refrigerator, and sink in an efficient layout. Starting with this layout is one of the best ways to begin a kitchen renovation project.

Electricians Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Heritage Home Service

978-819-9171

■ Cranney Home Services

978-377-8082

■ 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

978-207-3575

■ MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-401-9692

11th year as a Best Pick

10th year as a Best Pick

5th year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON ELECTRICAL SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Electrical work requires specialized knowledge and tools to avoid injury to yourself or damage to your home. Professional electricians will ensure that their work is done safely and to code. • If your home is older and hasn’t been recently updated, have an electrician do a safety inspection. While issues like improper grounding or a totally full main panel might not impact your daily life, they do present safety hazards that need to be addressed.

• 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. • Surge protectors can protect electronics from power surges by diverting excess electricity through a grounding wire. If you opt for a wholehouse surge protector, an electrician can install one at your panel or power meter. Whole-house units only protect against incoming surges, so use them with plug-in units for the best protection. • Standby power is another name for the small amounts of electricity used by items that are plugged in but not in use. Minimize standby power with smart power strips that shut off power to devices after a period of inactivity.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies must hold a Master Electrician License issued by the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

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Electricians Heritage Home Service

978-819-9171

“Our goal is for every job to be performed extremely well by friendly, considerate, highly trained professionals. That’s why so many of our customers say, ‘We love your people.’” Craig Chartier | Owner

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100944100101002

Services Offered: Heritage Home Service performs the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical equipment for residential customers. The company specializes in electrical panels and generators. Heritage Home Service offers virtual visits through video conferencing that connect the homeowner with a professional who offers free quotes for non-urgent problems, services, or future projects.

4226 172 23 15 81

Warranty: Heritage Home Service offers a one-year warranty on service and installation.

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Company History: The company started in 1986.

100139

Additional Information: Heritage Home Service sells and services many brands, including KOHLER and Generac.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Services Not Offered: The company does not service or install solar or geothermal systems.

Verified Trade License(s)

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed

Minimum Job: A dispatch fee of $89 is charged if no work is performed.

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-819-9171 for service

Cranney Home Services

978-377-8082

Warranty: Cranney Home Services offers two-year parts-and-labor warranties on all work performed.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093410011002

Services Offered: Cranney Home Services performs a range of electrical services for residential customers, including the installation, upgrade, and repair of lighting fixtures, fans, outlets, switches, circuits, panels, appliances, smart home technology, surge protection, whole-home generators, EV chargers, landscape lighting, and more. The company also offers electrical safety inspections, assessments and replacement of knob and tube wiring, and replacement of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

2486 98 22 16 64

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) 11918

Company History: Established in 1982, Cranney Home Services has served North Shore, Merrimack Valley, and Greater Boston homeowners for over 40 years.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Distinctions: Cranney Home Services is a winner of the 2025 and 2026 Best of Salem News award and the 2025 BONS Home Best of Northshore award.

Best Pick Guaranteed

Verified Workers’ Comp

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-377-8082 for service

Electricians 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

978-207-3575

“As a local, family-owned-and-operated business for over 30 years, our service is where we shine. We are truly committed to providing customers with the utmost professional experience. Our technicians are skilled and experienced in handling your home’s needs, and we take pride in completing our work down to the very last detail.” Ryan Williams | President

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10097210001001

Services Offered: 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric services, repairs, and installs EV chargers, electrical panels, heat pumps, switches, outlets, ceiling fans, surge protectors, circuits, wiring, and smoke and CO detectors. 128 specializes in electrification and provides service plans, up-front pricing on every job, financing options, free consultations on HVAC equipment, and a full range of plumbing and HVAC services.

2139 35 5 11 23

Warranty: 128 offers a 100 percent satisfaction warranty on all services and installations.

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Company History: 128 started in 1992 and remains locally and independently owned with a whole-home approach toward services and installations.

22151

Verified General Liability Insurance

Distinctions: 128 is a Mass Save Heat Pump Installer, a Mitsubishi Diamond Elite Contractor, a Bosch ABC Accredited Contractor, a Navien Service Specialist, and an American Standard Customer Care Dealer.

Best Pick Guaranteed

Verified Trade License(s)

Verified Workers’ Comp

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-207-3575 for service

MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-401-9692

“We’re committed to offering honest answers to all of your electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, and drain cleaning questions, and we provide cost-effective, permanent solutions as well as reliable 24/7 live customer service to keep your home healthy and safe.” Fred Webster, Jr. | Owner

Warranty: Installations and replacements have a one-year parts-and-labor warranty. Customer satisfaction is guaranteed. Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1979.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093310011003

Services Offered: MillTown offers a full range of electrical services, including low-voltage, recessed, and security lighting; dimmer installation; service panel upgrades; basement wiring; switch and outlet installation and repair; safety inspections; EV charger installation; lightning protection; circuit installation; troubleshooting; home automation; stove and oven wiring; appliance installation; generator inspection, installation, repair, and replacement; and 24-hour live customer service. The company also offers comprehensive plumbing, heating, A/C, drain clearing, and sewer repair services.

1571 53 11 12 44

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) 8068

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed

Distinctions: MillTown is fully licensed and insured. Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-401-9692 for service

Fences Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Patriot Fence Crafters

978-223-2020

10th year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON FENCE SERVICES • Fence design • Fence installation • Fence repair • Aluminum, chain-link, vinyl, wood, and decorative metal fences • Fence staining and sealing • Gate and access control installation TOP CONSUMER TIPS • A fence company should first visit your property and then give you a written proposal. Avoid working with a company that gives estimates by phone without seeing your property first, since those types of estimates can be inaccurate. If your yard is especially hilly, for instance, or will need clearing before the fence installation can begin, the price for the job may be higher than it would be for a fence installed on a flat piece of land. • Ask to see a portfolio of the contractor’s work. This can give you insight into the company’s work quality. It’s also helpful in visualizing how a particular fence type will look once it is installed. • Ask your contractor if they will obtain all necessary construction permits and arrange underground utility marking before the job begins or if those items will be your responsibility. Most

fence companies will do this important prep work for you, but be sure to clarify expectations first. Utilities will likely need to be located and marked by the utility provider. This process can usually be done within 72 hours of a call, excluding weekends and holidays. • Wood is a versatile fencing material. Pressuretreated pine and cedar are two varieties that are frequently used for fences. Depending on its grade and treatment, pressure-treated pine lasts about 10 to 15 years. Cedar generally lasts between 20 and 25. To prevent rot and insect infestation, wood fence posts should be set in concrete-filled holes. • Wrought iron makes for a beautiful fence, but it is expensive and high maintenance. If you want a wrought iron fence but are concerned about the cost and maintenance, look into easy-care, costeffective tubular steel or aluminum for a similar look. These materials are usually powder coated to prevent corrosion and rust while eliminating the need for repainting every few years. • Vinyl and PVC fences are durable and versatile. These tough plastics can mimic the look of wood and other materials. They are rigid enough to be durable but flexible enough to resist cracking, and they’re available in lots of styles and colors.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Fences Patriot Fence Crafters

978-223-2020

“We work closely with each customer to provide assistance and guidance on selecting the optimal fence structure to surround your home and to create a setting that expresses your individual creativity and values. We truly appreciate the relationships we build with our customers, and we strive for complete satisfaction.” Keith Oakley | Owner

Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee. Company History: Patriot Fence Crafters is a family-owned-and-operated company that was founded in 1996. Additional Information: The company states that it only selects fence materials that have been properly inspected and guaranteed by the manufacturer.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100916100121000

Services Offered: Patriot Fence Crafters provides fence installation and repair services, temporary fence services, gate operators, and access control services to residential and commercial customers. The company offers picket, privacy, pool, deer, garden, and other fences in a variety of materials, including chain-link, aluminum, wrought iron, vinyl, metal, and wood.

79 5 1 2 0

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-223-2020 for service

Company reference lists are never used in our research; we develop our ratings according to the review and survey data we have about each company spanning the past three years.

Flooring Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ A.J. Rose Carpets and Flooring

978-607-0843

■ Ulta Home Improvements

978-829-5994

10th year as a Best Pick

2nd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON FLOORING SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Flooring is something you want to get right the first time. If you can, take flooring samples home in as large a size as possible. This lets you see your options in your house, with your decor, and under a variety of lighting conditions. • 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 removing and 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 about every four years but are otherwise low maintenance. Porcelain tile is considered a better choice for flooring in hightraffic 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 manufacturers and retailers put a number between one and five on the carpet’s label. This is the carpet performance rating. On a scale of one to five, it denotes how well the carpet can withstand extended wear. The higher the number, the more durable the carpet should be. A rating of two to four suggests average durability. A carpet with a rating below two is best for areas like bedrooms, where traffic will be the lightest.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Flooring A.J. Rose Carpets and Flooring

978-607-0843

“A.J. Rose strives every day to provide exceptional customer service. We have been installing flooring in Massachusetts for over 45 years.” A.J. Boyajian | Co-owner

Warranty: A.J. Rose offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee. Company History: The second-generation, family-owned-and-operated company has served customers in the Boston area since 1977. A.J. Rose has locations in Natick, Burlington, Saugus, and Needham.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100897100101003

Services Offered: A.J. Rose Carpets and Flooring installs carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, engineered wood, cork, bamboo, and luxury vinyl tile flooring for residential and commercial customers.

102 8 1 0 4

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Distinctions: A.J. Rose is a member of the National Floorcovering Alliance and has earned Boston magazine’s Best of Boston award for Flooring and Northshore magazine’s Best of the North Shore award for Flooring.

Trade License(s) Not Required

Additional Information: The company sells and installs all major brands of flooring.

Verified Workers’ Comp

Services Not Offered: The company does not offer carpet cleaning or hardwood sanding and refinishing.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-607-0843 for service

Ulta Home Improvements

978-829-5994

“Ulta Home is your trusted and reliable flooring installer in Greater Boston and Metro West. Your flooring endures daily foot traffic. When left neglected, it may be a hazard to your household. Show your home some love with high-quality flooring installed by our highly skilled craftsmen. You will love the way our floors look and feel.” Bruno Aragao | President

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1009811000100

Services Offered: Ulta Home Improvements installs pre-finished hardwood; luxury vinyl plank; and ceramic, porcelain, glass, cement, marble, mosaic, and granite tile flooring. The company also offers hardwood sanding and refinishing, custom staining services, painting, and carpentry.

87 1 1 0 0

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required

Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Additional Information: Ulta Home Improvements works with brands such as Armstrong, Bruce, Mohawk, Shaw, Somerset, Mannington, COREtec, Karndean, Daltile, Marazzi, Ann Sacks, and more.

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-829-5994 for service

Foundation Repair Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Groundworks 978-404-4965 2nd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON FOUNDATION REPAIR SERVICES • Foundation repair • Pier systems • Wall anchor systems • Crawl space repair and encapsulation • Basement waterproofing • Moisture control service • Foundation drainage systems • Concrete lifting and leveling TOP CONSUMER TIPS • 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 and cause foundation cracks. Slab foundations that are poured on loose soil are especially prone to problems. • A leaking, cracked, or otherwise compromised foundation will devalue your home and make

selling virtually impossible. 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. • When you call a foundation repair contractor, be prepared to answer a few questions, like the age of your house and any relevant history. If you’re dealing with a foundation or wall crack, tell the company approximately when you noticed the crack and whether it has gotten larger. The inspector should always come to your home to complete the estimate. Foundation problems cannot be diagnosed over the phone. • Foundation inspections should include a digital elevation survey and a discussion of potential causes of the problem. Most inspections take about an hour to an hour and a half. Some foundation repair companies have structural engineers on staff to consult on projects. Other companies consider that relationship to be a conflict of interest. • Discuss preventative measures such as root barriers, proper drainage and grading, and moisture maintenance with your contractor. Without a plan for ongoing maintenance, foundation issues can return, especially if they were initially caused by moisture problems.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies are required to register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

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Foundation Repair Groundworks 978-404-4965 “Your Boston home deserves expert care. That’s why our Trained & Certified experts deliver engineer-backed, lasting repairs for Massachusetts’ unique soil conditions. We offer long-term warranties, clear estimates, and financing to fit your budget. From inspection to cleanup, our Employee-Owners offer service you can trust.” The Groundworks Team

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10097210001001

Services Offered: Groundworks provides foundation repair solutions, including foundation pier systems, wall anchor systems and straightening, and foundation wall repair systems. The company also offers basement waterproofing and crawl space repair services. Additionally, Groundworks specializes in lifting sinking and settled concrete slabs, including sidewalks, patios, steps, driveways, and concrete floors.

363 7 0 0 5

Warranty: Groundworks offers nationally backed transferable warranties.

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Company History: The company was established in 1996.

Verified Trade License(s)

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and pass background checks and drug tests.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Additional Information: Many repairs are reviewed by staff engineers. Groundworks offers clear, written estimates and no-interest financing options.

Services Not Offered: Groundworks does not install new foundations or pour concrete.

HIC 216733, CS-121892

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-404-4965 for service

Before extreme weather seasons, have your HVAC, roof, and exterior checked by professionals. Preventative maintenance is always more cost-effective than emergency repairs.

Garage Doors Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Door Systems Garage Door Group

978-276-6358

14th year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON GARAGE DOOR SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • 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. • 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 housed inside a shaft or tube. This cover should prevent the springs 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. • If your garage door falls or closes by itself or doesn’t stay closed, the door is most likely out of balance. Unbalanced garage doors often look uneven or slanted to one side. This causes the hardware on one side to wear out more quickly. • Garage door openers tend to be a little noisy. If you hear grinding noises or anything out of the ordinary, however, call a garage door pro. Stop the garage door opener or, if you open the garage door by hand, stop attempting to open or close it. • 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. Steel garage doors are strong and low maintenance. Other common materials include wood, aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl. Vinyl garage doors are gaining popularity because of their durability. They’re also made with UV-resistant materials, so they’re less likely to fade from sun exposure.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies are required to register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

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Garage Doors Door Systems Garage Door Group

978-276-6358

“Your overhead garage door is an important part of your home’s architecture. With the largest and most diverse selection in New England, we have the garage door to make your home distinctive and unique. Our priority is helping you select the best garage door to satisfy your specific needs.” Lars Niit | President

Warranty: All workmanship and materials are guaranteed for one year on new door and motor installations. The company guarantees parts and service for 90 days. Company History: Door Systems Garage Door Group was founded in 1961 by Heimar “Ed” Niit. The company has grown to employ more than 75 people in over 14 locations in the Northeast. Currently, Ed’s son Lars serves as president of the family-run enterprise. Additional Information: The company offers garage doors and related products by Wayne Dalton, North American, Clopay, LiftMaster, Garaga, Cookson, Cornell, Republic, Everite, Haas, Amarr, and more.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1008701003010010

Services Offered: Door Systems Garage Door Group offers garage door and garage door opener sales, repair, service, and installation.

34 0 1 0 4

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 161210

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-276-6358 for service

Best Pick Reports monitors all state-required trade licenses and verifies that potential and current Best Pick companies are in compliance each year.

Gutter & Gutter Guard Installation Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ A & A Services Home Improvement

978-819-9172

■ Ned Stevens Gutter Installation, a division of Ned's Home

978-581-8379

■ GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-363-6960

■ LeafFilter Gutter Protection

978-440-2563

11th year as a Best Pick

4th year as a Best Pick

3rd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON GUTTER & GUTTER GUARD INSTALLATION SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Gutters and downspouts help protect your home’s foundation, roof, and siding. Faulty gutters can cause water damage, foundation issues, soil erosion, roof leaks, fascia and soffit damage, and other problems. • For water to move through the gutters efficiently, the gutters need to be installed with a slope toward the downspouts. Too much slope can make the gutter overflow. Too little slope will cause water to sit in the gutters. A structurally sound gutter will have fasteners that are

relatively close together. The back of the gutter should be installed behind the existing roof flashing to prevent leaks and water damage. • Gutters are usually sold in five-inch or sixinch sizes. Six-inch gutter troughs are best for minimizing overflow on steep roofs. • 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. • Seamless aluminum gutters are a popular option. Vinyl gutters are cost effective and lightweight. Copper and zinc gutters are an investment, but they weather to a beautiful patina over the years and can last for the life of the house. • Gutter guard systems are typically made of a fine metal mesh or a piece of curved, painted metal installed on top of the gutter trough. These covers keep out leaves and other debris.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies are required to register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

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Gutter & Gutter Guard Installation A & A Services Home Improvement

978-819-9172

“Since 1982, A & A Services has built its reputation on 100 percent customer satisfaction by installing the highest-quality products and providing service that is truly ‘A Grade Above.’ With most of our work coming from referrals and repeat customers, you can be assured that we are consistent, trustworthy, and true to our word.” Chris Zorzy | President

Warranty: The company offers a five-year labor warranty for installations. Company History: The family-owned company was founded in 1982 by owner Chris Zorzy, who has over 40 years of experience in the home improvement industry. A & A serves Boston’s Greater North Shore. Distinctions: A & A Services is a member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the North Shore and Salem Chambers of Commerce. The company has been BBB Accredited since 1993 with no complaints.

Minimum Job: A & A Services requires at least 75 feet of gutter work per

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10096310001001

Services Offered: A & A Services installs aluminum open gutters for residential customers. The company also offers residential roof replacement, siding, window and door replacement, and related carpentry work. All services are offered for residential clients.

225 7 0 0 3

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 101609

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed

job.

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-819-9172 for service

Ned Stevens Gutter Installation, a division of Ned’s Home

978-581-8379

“For over 60 years, Ned’s Home 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

Minimum Job: Ned Stevens Gutter Installation requires a $150 job

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100799100321007

910 99 34 23 86

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 186366

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed

minimum.

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-581-8379 for service

Gutter & Gutter Guard Installation GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-363-6960

Services Not Offered: Gutter cleaning is not offered.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100915100101002

Services Offered: GF Sprague specializes in home exterior projects from repairs to full replacements, including roofing, siding, gutters, chimneys, slate, copper, and windows.

383 22 3 2 9

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 211004

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-363-6960 for service

LeafFilter Gutter Protection

978-440-2563

“At LeafFilter, we deliver custom solutions to help protect your home and solve your gutter problems from start to finish. We inspect, clean out, and repair or replace your gutters, then install our top-rated gutter protection in as little as one day. With whole-home gutter protection, you get clog-free gutters, guaranteed.” Chris Counahan | President of LeafFilter

Warranty: LeafFilter Gutter Protection offers a lifetime transferable warranty. Company History: The company was established in 2005 by Matt Kaulig and is part of a national franchise. Distinctions: LeafFilter was ranked on the 2022 Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 and 2022 HIP 200 lists, the 2023 Consumer Advocate Top 10 Best Gutter Guards list, the 2023 Best Company Top 28 Companies to Watch list, and the 2023 Inc. Best in Business list. LeafFilter is a Great Place To WorkCertified Company. Employee Information: Uniformed employees wear shoe covers and undergo background checks.

Services Not Offered: The company does not offer roof installation services.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1006951003210022

Services Offered: LeafFilter Gutter Protection specializes in installing gutter guards and gutters for residential customers. The company also provides gutter evaluations and free estimates.

72 5 3 2 23

Rating: 4.0 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 213292

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-440-2563 for service

Gutter Cleaning Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning, a division of Ned's Home 5th year as a Best Pick

978-673-0101

Educational Content COMMON GUTTER CLEANING SERVICES • Gutter cleaning • Downspout cleaning • Gutter repairs • Gutter installation • Roof cleaning • Pressure washing TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Gutters and downspouts carry water away from your house, protecting the soil, foundation, roof, and siding. Spillover from clogged 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 cause issues like wood rot, basement water intrusion, 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. It’s a good idea to check your gutters regularly all year to ensure water is flowing properly.

• Gutter covers can reduce the amount of debris that collects in your gutters. A gutter cover is a smooth piece of curved, painted metal that fits over the top of the gutter. 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 volume of water that comes down the roof at these spots can still overshoot the gutters. Diverters can help with this. Adding a gutter cover system to your home doesn’t mean that your gutters are now completely maintenancefree. 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. • The heights involved make gutter cleaning dangerous. Professionals have special safety training as well as the right equipment, like ladders with levelers. Any company working at your home should be fully insured. This is especially true for gutter cleaners, since damage to property is always a possibility. Ask for proof of both workers’ compensation insurance and liability insurance.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Gutter Cleaning Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning, a division of Ned’s Home

978-673-0101

“For over 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

Minimum Job: Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning requires a $150 job minimum.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100799100321007

910 99 34 23 86

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-673-0101 for service

Don’t forget about lighting as you start a home update project. New, energy-efficient fixtures and smart bulbs can make a world of difference in the feel of a space.

Heating & Air Conditioning Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Heritage Home Service

978-377-8083

■ Cranney Home Services

978-309-6225

■ 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

978-223-2021

■ HL Bowman

978-207-3576

■ MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-380-9311

■ Ace Hardware Home Services

978-878-2258

11th year as a Best Pick

10th year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON HVAC SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • HVAC maintenance plans are handy and usually include two maintenance appointments per year plus perks like reduced or waived dispatch fees. • The right HVAC system size is key to efficiency. A too-small system won’t do a good job controlling

the temperature of the house. A system that is too large will cycle on and off frequently. Your contractor should use the Manual J formula to make sure your HVAC system is the right size. • Programmable or Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats can help lower energy costs by auto-adjusting the temperature while the house is empty. • Ask if your service provider honors manufacturers’ warranties on new equipment or whether you will need to contact the manufacturer directly in the event of a problem. • If your HVAC system is running well but you’d like to increase your home’s efficiency, look into duct sealing. Sealing the ducts can lower energy costs and boost air circulation.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Heating & Air Conditioning Heritage Home Service

978-377-8083

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100944100101002

Services Offered: Heritage Home Service maintains, repairs, and installs furnaces, boilers, central air conditioning systems, and ductless air conditioning systems. The company services all brands of HVAC equipment. Heritage Home Service offers virtual visits through video conferencing that connect the homeowner with a professional who offers free quotes for non-urgent problems, services, or future projects.

4226 172 23 15 81

Warranty: Heritage Home Service offers a one-year warranty on workmanship and installation; a five-year warranty on heat exchangers and compressors; and five- and ten-year parts-and-labor warranties.

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Company History: The second-generation, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1986.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Services Not Offered: The company does not clean air ducts or service or install solar or geothermal systems.

Trade License(s) Not Required

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed

Minimum Job: A dispatch fee of $89 is charged if no work is performed. Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-377-8083 for service

Cranney Home Services

978-309-6225

Warranty: Cranney Home Services offers two-year parts-and-labor warranties on all work performed. Company History: Established in 1982, Cranney Home Services has served North Shore, Merrimack Valley, and Greater Boston homeowners for over 40 years. Distinctions: Cranney Home Services is a winner of the 2025 and 2026 Best of Salem News award and the 2025 BONS Home Best of Northshore award.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093410011002

Services Offered: Cranney Home Services is a full-service HVAC contractor that serves residential customers. In addition to providing maintenance services, the company installs and repairs heating and cooling systems, boilers, mini-splits, heat pumps, thermostats, and more. Cranney Home Services offers smart home technology installation, such as programmable thermostats, and a full suite of indoor air quality products and services.

2486 98 22 16 64

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-309-6225 for service

Heating & Air Conditioning 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

978-223-2021

Warranty: 128 offers a 100 percent satisfaction warranty on all services and installations.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10097210001001

Services Offered: 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric services, repairs, and installs HVAC systems, high-efficiency heat and A/C units, ductless systems, heat pumps, boilers, furnaces, and more. 128 offers service plans, up-front pricing on every job, financing options, free consultations on new HVAC equipment, oil-to-gas conversions, indoor air quality solutions, and a full range of electrical, drain and sewer, and plumbing services.

2139 35 5 11 23

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required

Company History: 128 started in 1992 and remains locally and independently owned with a whole-home approach toward services and installations.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Best Pick Guaranteed

Verified Workers’ Comp

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-223-2021 for service

HL Bowman

978-207-3576

“What sets our company apart is our delivery of consistent, world-class service. We are believers in continuous improvement for the betterment of our customers. We promise to fulfill the needs of every customer with a sense of urgency, aiming for the gold standard of ‘fixing it right, right away, today.’” Tim Flynn | President

Warranty: The company honors manufacturers’ warranties on parts and offers a variety of maintenance plans for HVAC systems. Company History: HL Bowman is a local company that was founded in 1995. Employee Information: Employees must meet the company’s professional qualifications in addition to undergoing background checks and drug testing. Technicians arrive in uniforms and marked vehicles, and homeowners are sent a bio and photo prior to being serviced.

Services Not Offered: HL Bowman does not work on window A/C units or

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10094310001002

Services Offered: HL Bowman specializes in the service, repair, and installation of heating and cooling equipment for residential customers. In addition to installing air quality control products, the company offers plumbing and drain services.

1229 39 1 6 28

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed

oil heating systems.

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-207-3576 for service

Heating & Air Conditioning MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-380-9311

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093310011003

Services Offered: MillTown is a full-service heating and air conditioning contractor that specializes in the service, repair, and installation of home HVAC systems, heat pump and A/C units, ductless systems, central air, heat pumps, boilers, furnaces, water heaters, and more. Financing options and free quotes are available. The company also offers comprehensive plumbing, drain clearing, sewer repair, and electrical services.

1571 53 11 12 44

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required Verified General Liability Insurance

Distinctions: MillTown is a certified Mass Save Heat Pump Installer.

Verified Workers’ Comp

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Best Pick Guaranteed

Services Not Offered: The company does not repair fireplaces, wood stoves, or window-mounted A/C units.

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-380-9311 for service

Ace Hardware Home Services

978-878-2258

“Unique Indoor Comfort is proud to be partnered with Ace Hardware Home Services! Bringing the Boston area the same high-quality work and service, now backed by the power of the 100-year-old Ace Hardware Brand!” Joseph Cavallaro | General Manager

Warranty: Ace Hardware Home Services provides warranty coverage on workmanship and qualifying equipment.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1009711001100

Services Offered: Ace Hardware Home Services is a full-service home services provider offering HVAC and plumbing installations, preventative maintenance, comprehensive diagnostics, and repairs. Technicians service a wide range of heating and cooling equipment, including ductless systems, heat pumps, hydronic systems, boilers, and furnaces. The company also offers a full range of residential plumbing services, including drain clearing and water heater replacement.

113 1 1 1 1

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required

Company History: Founded in 1967 as Unique Indoor Comfort and now operating as Ace Hardware Home Services, the team continues to deliver the same level of expertise and reliable service.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Distinctions: Ace Hardware Home Services is a Mitsubishi Electric Diamond Elite Contractor, a BBB Accredited business, and a member of the Mass Save Heat Pump Installer Network.

Best Pick Guaranteed

Additional Information: The company offers products from brands such as Bosch, Mitsubishi, Carrier, SpacePak, and Unico.

Verified Workers’ Comp

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-878-2258 for service

Home Remodeling & Additions Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ DP Custom Homes & Renovations

978-972-4778

2nd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON HOME REMODELING & ADDITIONS SERVICES • Home remodeling • Home additions • Kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling • Three- and four-season rooms • Sunrooms, porches, and decks • Home exterior updates and renovations TOP CONSUMER TIPS • 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 by having all communication and planning happen with one company. • In general, projects that add livable space to your house have the greatest return on investment. 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. • 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 engineered hardwood, laminate, or tile flooring. • If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, look into energy-efficient fixtures and appliances. These upgrades can help lower utility bills later. • Remodeling projects can last from several days to several months, depending on the work being done. Advance preparation will help get the project started on the right foot. Clear out the space being remodeled so nothing gets damaged. If your project includes new cabinets or storage space, empty your current cabinets before any work begins. • Try not to get too attached to an idea before you know how much it costs. Staying on budget is harder if you aren’t open to 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 hiring one. Price can indicate work quality, so be cautious of very low estimates. Experience and reputation are key. Verify insurance and licenses and ask for references before you sign a contract.

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Home Remodeling & Additions DP Custom Homes & Renovations

978-972-4778

Minimum Job: Projects start at $5,000.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10001000100

Services Offered: DP Custom Homes & Renovations specializes in wholehome remodeling services and home additions. The company also offers basement finishing and renovation, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, and custom decks and outdoor living spaces.

43 0 0 0 0

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 209267, CS-117333

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-972-4778 for service

Need an extra copy of this guide, or would you like to send Best Pick Reports to a friend? Request a free guide at bestpickreports.com/requestaguide.

Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ DP Custom Homes & Renovations

978-915-3625

■ Ulta Home Improvements

978-678-8552

3rd year as a Best Pick

2nd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON KITCHEN & BATHROOM REMODELING SERVICES • Kitchen remodeling and renovation • Bathroom remodeling and renovation • Cabinet replacement and refacing • Countertop and flooring replacement • Fixture installation • Tile installation • Design services TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Request written estimates from several remodeling firms. When you meet with a contractor about your project, explain in detail the work you want done. This will help clarify expectations and project scope. • Remodeling is a great opportunity to make a space more functional. Improve the layout of your kitchen, for example, or modernize the look of your bathroom and save on your water bill at the same time with new plumbing fixtures. Think about your needs and wants for the new space, and be as realistic as possible. If you do a lot of cooking and entertaining, for example, a highmaintenance countertop material might not be the best choice. Talk to your contractor about options that will best fit your lifestyle and budget.

• Certain phases of home renovation work can be inconvenient, but the results are worth it. A kitchen remodel, for instance, might make that space unusable at times. Stay flexible as much as you can, and try to plan ahead when possible. A temporary food station with a microwave, coffee maker, and mini fridge in another room can make the remodeling process less disruptive. • While each project’s unique requirements differ somewhat, common bathroom remodeling steps include demolition, structural carpentry work, roughing out utilities, and installing drywall. Painting is usually one of the last steps in the remodeling process for both bathrooms and kitchens because the walls are likely to be marked up during demolition and construction. • Ask your contractor about warranties and guarantees on materials and workmanship. The specifics may vary for different products, so get the details in writing. • Keep the lines of communication open during the project. Changes are easier to make during the job than afterward. If the project’s scope changes, get written documentation of the changes, cost differences, and schedule updates.

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Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling DP Custom Homes & Renovations

978-915-3625

Warranty: DP Custom Homes & Renovations offers limited lifetime manufacturers’ product warranties and a one-year labor warranty. Company History: The local company was established in 2022. Distinctions: DP Custom Homes & Renovations is accredited by the BBB and holds an A+ rating. The company is a member of the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston (BRAGB) and the Professional Remodeling Organization (PRO). Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms and shoe covers, and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Minimum Job: Projects start at $5,000.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10001000100

Services Offered: DP Custom Homes & Renovations specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling. Additional services include additions, basement finishing, decks, and general remodeling.

43 0 0 0 0

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 209267, CS-117333

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-915-3625 for service

Ulta Home Improvements

978-678-8552

Warranty: Ulta Home Improvements offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1009811000100

Services Offered: Ulta Home Improvements is a full-service residential remodeling company. The company specializes in customized functional solutions for kitchens and bathrooms. Ulta also offers basement remodeling, professional painting, and flooring installation. Estimates are free.

87 1 1 0 0

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Company History: The locally owned company started in 2014. Ulta Home Improvements states that its core values and mission to serve every customer with excellence inform each job.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: Ulta Home Improvements is A+ Rated and Accredited with the BBB, an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm, and a member of the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston.

Verified Workers’ Comp

HIC 183615, CS-121537

Verified General Liability Insurance

Best Pick Guaranteed

Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles. Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-678-8552 for service

Masonry - Brick & Stone Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-819-8088

1st year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON BRICK & STONE MASONRY SERVICES • Brick, stone, and masonry structure construction • Brick, stone, and masonry repair • Fireplace and chimney repair • Crack repair • Tuck-pointing and repointing • Expansion joints TOP CONSUMER TIPS • For brick and masonry repairs, hire a masonry repair specialist. Masonry is a highly skilled trade, and the average contractor probably won’t be able to correctly address cosmetic or structural problems with a brick wall, arch, or fireplace. Professional, experienced masons will ensure that the repair is done fully and correctly.

must be fully removed first. Face tuck-pointing, or adding a layer of new mortar over the bad mortar, is not a viable long-term solution. • Masonry crack repair done by a skilled mason is usually invisible to the untrained eye. However, it is important to remember that all cracks have a cause. A crack repaired without addressing the underlying cause is likely to return. • Foundation settling can cause cracks at a structure’s weak points, which are often under the corners of windows. To prevent these cracks, masons cut and caulk vertical expansion joints in the brick to divide the walls into sections that can settle independently.

• Mortar is the glue that holds brick, block, and stone together. It is made of a mixture of sand, water, and a binder, like cement. Mortar color can vary depending on the mixture, but a skilled repair mason will be able to closely match existing mortar. In most cases, mortar can last for over 25 years before it needs to be replaced.

• Masonry arches and spans can sag and crack over time if they weren’t originally installed with enough support. The problem can sometimes be repaired by hydraulically raising the sagging part and bolting the angle iron to the header. In some cases, the brick or stonework may need to be completely rebuilt.

• Mortar that is falling apart can be restored through a process called tuck-pointing. During a tuck-pointing project, the mason will grind down and remove old or compromised mortar and then use new mortar to fill the joints. The old mortar

• Due to differences in processes, materials, and kiln temperatures, brick color varies greatly, which can make it difficult to match new brick to existing brick. Over time, even bricks made by the same brickyard may not match exactly.

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Masonry - Brick & Stone Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-819-8088

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100796100210011

Services Offered: Capital Construction Contracting is an exterior home improvement company specializing in masonry, stonework, paver patios, walkways, retaining walls, and custom hardscape features that enhance outdoor living spaces. The company also provides custom decks, roofing, siding, windows, and entry doors. Free estimates and zero-percent financing are available.

258 19 5 8 37

Warranty: The company guarantees customer satisfaction and honors manufacturers’ warranties.

Rating: 4.3 out of 5

Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was started in 2005.

HIC 172146, CS-090743

Distinctions: Capital Construction Contracting is Boston’s only distinguished Trex Pro Platinum Contractor, a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, and a GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor. The company is A+ rated and accredited with the BBB and is a member of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.

Verified Trade License(s) Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-819-8088 for service

Before major home projects, get multiple contractor quotes. Look beyond price; check warranties and included services to ensure the best long-term value.

Movers Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Isaac's Moving & Storage

978-207-3577

■ Flash Moving & Storage

978-297-8350

11th year as a Best Pick

4th year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON MOVING SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Request written estimates from a couple of moving companies so you can compare options. Mention any stairs, elevators, or particularly heavy or delicate items, as well as outbuildings or storage units so the movers will know if they’ll need to bring any special equipment to your job. • 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. You will pay that price even if the shipment’s weight or the job hours end up being different from 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. However, with a nonbinding estimate, the final cost can be more than you were quoted. • Make sure you have a clear understanding of the damage claims process up front, including the time period for submitting a claim. 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 first. • Combine items you will need immediately upon arriving at your new home into one or two boxes and have them loaded last so they can be unloaded first. Always take medications, important paperwork, cherished items, and a few days’ worth of clothing with you in your car. • You might be able to save money by moving in the middle of a month. Most moving companies are busiest at the first and last part of the month. • Consider packing your belongings yourself to keep costs down. Remember that if you do pack your own items, the moving company will not, in most cases, be responsible for any damage.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies are required to hold an MDPU license issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities and a USDOT # (as well as an MC # for interstate movers) issued by the US Department of Transportation.

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Movers Isaac’s Moving & Storage

978-207-3577

“Isaac’s Moving & Storage provides moving and storage services for customers moving ‘Around the Corner or Around the World.’ Planning a move? Let the team at Isaac’s Moving & Storage show you that the difference between ordinary and Extraordinary is that little Extra.” Ami Joseph | President

Company History: Isaac’s Moving & Storage has been in business since 1988 and has offices in Boston, Philadelphia, Houston, and San Diego. What began as a small operation has grown into one of the largest independent moving companies in the United States. Distinctions: Isaac’s has an A+ BBB rating and is a member of the International Association of Movers (IAM), the FIDI Global Alliance, and the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers (NASMM).

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100903100211005

Services Offered: Isaac’s Moving & Storage offers residential and commercial customers a variety of moving and storage services. Isaac’s Moving performs local, long-distance, and international moves in addition to providing secure, climate-controlled storage in its technologically advanced storage facility. The company also offers professional packing services. Isaac’s specializes in providing moving services for seniors and senior living communities around New England.

176 6 3 1 9

Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s)

MDPU-29953, USDOT-550501, MC-270660

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-207-3577 for service

Flash Moving & Storage

978-297-8350

“A local, family-owned company, we’ve been in the moving business for over six years. At Flash, we know time is valuable, and we put an emphasis on quality above all else. We can help you with your move from start to finish so that you can sit back and relax. Don’t let moving stress you out. Let Flash take care of the heavy lifting.” Phillip Nesterov | Founder

Warranty: Flash offers additional valuation coverage. Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 2017 by Phillip Nesterov and Anton Gusak.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10099010010100

Services Offered: Flash Moving & Storage is a full-service residential and commercial moving company. The company’s services include local and long-distance moves; furniture, piano, and heavy item moving; packing and unpacking; short- and long-term temperature-controlled storage; and assembly and disassembly. The company also offers free estimates.

224 0 2 0 1

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s)

MDPU-52822, USDOT-3025065, MC-36474

Employee Information: Uniformed employees wear shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Services Not Offered: The company does not move heavy factory

Verified Workers’ Comp

equipment or hot tubs.

Minimum Job: Flash Moving & Storage requires a job minimum of two hours plus travel time.

Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-297-8350 for service

Outdoor Kitchens & Living Spaces Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-915-2821

1st year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON OUTDOOR KITCHEN & LIVING SPACE SERVICES • Outdoor living space design and installation • Outdoor kitchens and living areas • Walkways and pavers • Patios and pool decks • Arbors, pergolas, and gazebos • Patio covers TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Outdoor living design/build firms can handle your project from beginning to end. They usually have landscaping experience, too, which means they can give you ideas and recommendations for both the structural elements of your project and the plant-related ones. Outline your needs, wants, and budget for the project so the company you choose can draw up a plan that fits what you have in mind. • A seating area or gathering spot, like a deck or covered patio, makes a great anchor for an outdoor living space. Think about how you’ll use your new space. If you entertain often, a roomy deck or patio will give you plenty of space for guests. If you want privacy from neighbors, ask your contractor about a fence or privacy screen. • If your goal is an outdoor entertaining space, think about adding an outdoor kitchen. This

could be as simple as a grill and small prep area. Depending on your space and budget, you could even add a sink and some cabinetry. Functionality is important when you’re designing a new space, especially a kitchen, so be sure to think about how your indoor and outdoor kitchens might work together. Are the two areas on the same side of the house? What is the traffic pattern between them? The location of your gas, water, and electrical supply lines will also impact the design of your outdoor kitchen. • Landscape lighting is practical, but you can also use it to create ambiance. Use lighting to highlight your house and yard. Nice outdoor lighting also means that the party won’t need to move indoors once the sun goes down. • A pond, fountain, or other water feature brings calming white noise to your outdoor space. Keep in mind that water features typically need some level of maintenance a few times per year. • If you get more warm weather than cold, you’ll be able to use your outdoor living space almost year-round. If you live in an area with lots of cold weather, ask your contractor about ways to make the space usable for longer. Outdoor heaters and fireplaces, for example, can make a world of difference during a chilly winter.

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Outdoor Kitchens & Living Spaces Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-915-2821

Warranty: The company guarantees customer satisfaction and honors manufacturers’ warranties.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100796100210011

Services Offered: Capital Construction Contracting designs and builds custom outdoor living spaces featuring outdoor kitchens, fire features, seating walls, patios, retaining walls, walkways, and more. The company also provides custom decks, roofing, siding, windows, and entry doors. Free estimates and zero-percent financing are available.

258 19 5 8 37

Rating: 4.3 out of 5

Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was started in 2005.

Verified Trade License(s)

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.

HIC 172146, CS-090743

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-915-2821 for service

For your convenience, a quick reference sheet in the back of this guide lists all Best Pick companies by category, along with contact phone numbers.

Painters Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Arch Painting Inc.

978-607-0845

■ Ulta Home Improvements

978-736-2667

10th year as a Best Pick

3rd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Make sure the painter you hire includes proper prep work in the estimate for your job. Preparing an area to paint involves patching holes, sanding patched areas and uneven spots, and ensuring that the entire surface is clean and dry. Exterior work includes repairing wood rot and fixing damaged siding. Primer and paint adhere best to clean, smooth surfaces, so good prep work is worth the cost. • The estimates you consider should include the same scope of work and materials so you can make a fair comparison. Also check the quality of the paint in the estimate and the number of coats proposed.

• Choose a paint finish that fits the space being painted. Shinier finishes are durable and easy to clean, so choose high or semi-gloss for kitchens, window trim, doors, and bathrooms. Eggshell works well in dining and living spaces, and matte finishes are best for low-traffic areas such as bedrooms. • If you are not sure of which paint color to use, ask for a color consultation. Your painting contractor might be able to help you choose a color scheme that suits your home decor. Another option is to buy small samples of colors you like and paint swatches on the walls. • Before you settle on an exterior paint color, check with your HOA, if you have one. There may be specific colors and paint brands you have to use. Also take the architectural style of your home into account. Some paint manufacturers offer palettes to make the color selection process easier. • Quality matters. Cheaper paints are formulated differently from more expensive options, so they often require more coats to get the same result as higher-quality paints. The cost of paint is usually lower than the cost of labor, so cheap paint often means that the job will cost more in the end.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies are required to register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

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Painters Arch Painting Inc.

978-607-0845

“We want to be known for exceptional results, work ethic, service, and knowledge. Our long-standing professional relationships and continuous growth are our testimony that we’re doing just that. We offer the attentiveness and accessibility of a small company with the capabilities of a larger company.” Joseph Giacalone | Owner & CEO

Warranty: All work is covered by a two-year warranty. Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company has served the Boston area since 1997. Distinctions: Arch Painting is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm and a Massachusetts Lead-Safe Renovation Contractor. Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo drug testing and background checks. Additional Information: Arch Painting requires no money down or payment until a project is complete.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10080710021009

Services Offered: Arch Painting provides interior and exterior painting services for residential and commercial customers. The company also offers drywall repair; faux finishing; door refinishing; wallpaper hanging and removal; deck, fence, and interior surface staining; color consultations; rotten wood replacement; pressure washing; and carpentry services.

35 3 1 1 4

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 154169

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-607-0845 for service

Ulta Home Improvements

978-736-2667

“If you’re looking for the best painters near you, Ulta Home is the company you can trust. With over 19 years of industry experience, we proudly serve the Greater Boston and Metro West community. We are committed to delivering quality work with honesty and integrity. We go above and beyond; your satisfaction is our priority.” Bruno Aragao | President

Warranty: Ulta Home Improvements offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1009811000100

Services Offered: Ulta Home Improvements offers residential and commercial interior and exterior painting services. The company also offers cabinet refinishing; wallpaper removal; luxury vinyl plank, hardwood, and tile floor installation; hardwood floor sanding, refinishing, and custom staining; tiled backsplash, bathtub, shower stall, and fireplace hearth installation; and carpentry services. Ulta Home Improvements provides color consultations, free quotes, and financing options.

87 1 1 0 0

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 183615

Company History: The locally owned company started in 2014. Ulta Home Improvements states that its core values and mission to serve every customer with excellence inform each job.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Additional Information: Ulta Home Improvements offers products by Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Farrow & Ball, Fine Paints of Europe, and more.

Best Pick Guaranteed

Verified Workers’ Comp

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-736-2667 for service

Paver Installation Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-878-5918

1st year as a Best Pick

Educational Content 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. Paver installations are usually more expensive than poured concrete slabs of similar size. They are, however, less costly than a surface paved with brick or natural stone. • The first step in a paver installation is excavating the area to be paved. Once excavation is done, the crew will tamp down the dirt with a compaction machine to create a stable base. Next, the crew will put down a foundation of crushed stone, compacting each layer. After the final layer of crushed stone is in place, a layer of granite sand is put down and compacted. This step fills the gaps between the crushed stone and creates a smooth surface for the pavers. Once the base is fully prepared, the crew will lay the pavers, using spacers to keep everything

lined up. After the pavers are laid, they are tapped firmly into place with the compaction machine. • If you’re having a paver driveway installed, the base layer will be thicker than it would be for a walkway. This ensures that the finished surface can handle the weight of multiple vehicles. • Unlike standard masonry, pavers are not mortared in place. Once the pavers are placed, 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. • A penetrating sealer protects the pavers from stains from motor oil, tire marks, or grease. It can also make the pavers look deeper and richer in color. Penetrating sealer prevents water from entering the pavers. This is important because water that freezes inside a paver or any kind of concrete can break or weaken it over time. • 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 on walkways, patios, and driveways.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Paver Installation Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-878-5918

Warranty: The company guarantees customer satisfaction and honors manufacturers’ warranties.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100796100210011

Services Offered: Capital Construction Contracting designs and builds custom outdoor living spaces featuring paver patios, retaining walls, walkways, and more. The company also provides custom decks, roofing, siding, windows, and entry doors. Free estimates and zero-percent financing are available.

258 19 5 8 37

Rating: 4.3 out of 5

Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was started in 2005.

Trade License(s) Not Required

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-878-5918 for service

Home upgrades that focus on lowering utility costs are a great investment. Energy-efficient windows and appliances offer noticeable long-term returns and reduce your impact on the environment.

Pest & Termite Control Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Trutech Wildlife Service

978-541-4019

■ A1 Exterminators, part of Ned's Home

978-301-8864

3rd year as a Best Pick

2nd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON PEST & TERMITE CONTROL SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Pest removal can be dangerous, especially if you’re dealing with stinging insects or live animals. Always call a professional to handle the issue. Most pest control companies are equipped to address all types of pest issues, but 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. Stack firewood on blocks or a concrete pad away from your foundation. 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 dripping outdoor faucets, puddling, or damp areas around 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 use synthetic pesticides, but carefully and sparingly. This holistic approach to pest management is effective and safer for the environment. • 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 offer ways to prevent the issue in the future. • Discourage mosquitoes and other outdoor pests by taking steps like dumping out standing water, caulking foundation cracks, and filling open tree holes with sand. Add these tasks to your normal yard maintenance routine to make them a habit. • Don’t use insecticides on bees and wasps. While their stings hurt and can be dangerous, these pollinators are vital to our ecosystem. A pest control professional will know how to safely and humanely control the swarm and move the nest.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies must hold a Commercial Applicator Certification with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources.

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Pest & Termite Control Trutech Wildlife Service

978-541-4019

“Established in 1984, Trutech Wildlife Service has 42 years of experience and has become one of the largest wildlife removal companies. While providing quality solutions, we protect our customers from hazards of wildlife in their homes and businesses while ensuring animals are removed in a humane and ethical manner.” Company Representative

Warranty: Trutech Wildlife Service warranties all full exclusions for one year and offers renewable warranties after the first year for continual protection and peace of mind. Company History: Trutech has been in the wildlife removal industry for 42 years and operates in over 50 locations. Distinctions: Trutech is a National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and a National Wildlife Control Operator Association (NWCOA) member.

Services Not Offered: The company does not provide services for

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100731910001008

Services Offered: Trutech Wildlife Service specializes in pest control services for mice, rats, mosquitoes, stinging insects, squirrels, snakes, bats, birds, raccoons, skunks, groundhogs, moles, and more. In addition, Trutech performs dead animal removal, attic cleanup, exclusion repairs, and preventative services.

19 5 0 0 2

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) CC-0032184

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed

domestic animals, termites, or bedbugs.

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-541-4019 for service

A1 Exterminators, part of Ned’s Home

978-301-8864

“A1 Exterminators has 70+ years of experience in the pest control industry. As a business built on family values since 1953 and servicing Boston, Cape Cod, New Hampshire, and Southern Maine, we work to provide the best pest control service with our highly trained technicians and state-of-the-art equipment.” Rob Rapuano | CEO

Warranty: The company guarantees 100 percent customer satisfaction.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10085610021006

Services Offered: A1 Exterminators specializes in pest control and extermination services for residential and commercial customers. Services target pests including ants, carpenter ants, bedbugs, spiders, cockroaches, stinging insects, fleas, mosquitoes, ticks, termites, rodents, and nuisance wildlife. The company uses Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques and offers eco-friendly pest control products and services as well as pest prevention plans. A1 Exterminators offers free estimates.

170 12 3 3 11

Rating: 4.6 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s)

Company History: The local business was established in 1953.

CC-0026133

Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms and shoe covers, and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-301-8864 for service

Plumbers Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Heritage Home Service

978-819-9174

■ Cranney Home Services

978-223-2023

■ 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

978-207-3578

■ HL Bowman

978-296-5564

■ MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-380-9304

11th year as a Best Pick

10th year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON PLUMBING SERVICES • 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 • Know the location of the main water shutoff valve for your house. This valve is usually indoors, near the water heater or wherever utility supply lines enter the house. • Low water pressure can signal a problem in the water line or a buildup of sediment. Test the

water pressure at the faucets. Then, remove faucet aerators to look for sediment. Also check the drainage. You should see a full swirl of water as a sink or basin drains. • Most drain clogs are avoidable. Cover drains with screens, and don’t pour grease down the kitchen sink. Chemical drain cleaners can weaken pipes with repeated use, so try to avoid them. • For safety, the Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association recommends setting your water heater no higher than 120 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit. • Frost-proof outside spigots prevent many repairs each year. The valve part of the spigot is installed deep in the wall, which keeps the water in the pipe from freezing. When the spigot is turned off, there isn’t any water near the wall.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies must hold a Plumbing Business License issued by the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

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Plumbers Heritage Home Service

978-819-9174

Warranty: Heritage Home Service offers a one-year warranty on service and installation. Company History: The second-generation, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1986. Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms. Additional Information: Heritage Home Service sells and services many brands of plumbing equipment.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100944100101002

Services Offered: Heritage Home Service installs, maintains, and repairs plumbing fixtures and water heaters for residential customers. In addition to performing heating, cooling, and electrical work, the company provides services related to drain and sewer line repair. Heritage Home Service offers virtual visits through video conferencing that connect the homeowner with a professional who offers free quotes for non-urgent problems, services, or future projects.

4226 172 23 15 81

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) 4596

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-819-9174 for service

Minimum Job: A dispatch fee of $89 is charged if no work is performed.

Cranney Home Services

978-223-2023

Warranty: Cranney Home Services offers two-year parts-and-labor warranties on all work performed.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093410011002

Services Offered: Cranney Home Services is a full-service residential plumbing contractor that installs, services, and repairs plumbing fixtures, garbage disposals, sewers, drains, water heaters, sump pumps, gas lines, burst and frozen pipes, water softeners, water filtration, other water treatment services, and more. The company also offers leak detection and repair, pipe and valve repair, and full drain and sewer repair and replacement.

2486 98 22 16 64

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) 4397

Company History: Established in 1982, Cranney Home Services has served North Shore, Merrimack Valley, and Greater Boston homeowners for over 40 years.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Distinctions: Cranney Home Services is a winner of the 2025 and 2026 Best of Salem News award and the 2025 BONS Home Best of Northshore award.

Best Pick Guaranteed

Verified Workers’ Comp

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-223-2023 for service

Plumbers 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

978-207-3578

Company History: 128 started in 1992 and remains locally and independently owned with a whole-home approach toward services and installations. Distinctions: 128 is a Mass Save Heat Pump Installer, a Mitsubishi Diamond Elite Contractor, a Bosch ABC Accredited Contractor, a Navien Service Specialist, and an American Standard Customer Care Dealer.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10097210001001

Services Offered: 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric specializes in tankless and standard hot water heaters and high-efficiency hot water solutions. 128 services, repairs, and installs boilers, piping, faucets, toilets, sinks, showers, garbage disposals, sump pumps, and heating systems. 128 also offers pipe lining, drain line camera inspections, drain cleaning, sewer repair, oil-to-gas conversions, sewer certifications, water filtration, water testing, service plans, financing options, up-front pricing, free consultations on HVAC equipment, and HVAC and electrical services.

2139 35 5 11 23

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) 2493

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-207-3578 for service

HL Bowman

978-296-5564

Warranty: The company offers various warranties on parts and labor as well as manufacturers’ warranties. Company History: HL Bowman is a local company that was founded in 1995. Employee Information: Employees must meet the company’s professional qualifications in addition to undergoing background checks and drug testing. Technicians arrive in uniforms and marked vehicles, and homeowners are sent a bio and photo prior to service. Additional Information: The company sells and services most brands of plumbing equipment, including Rinnai, Navien, A. O. Smith, State Water Heaters, KOHLER, Toto, and American Standard.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10094310001002

Services Offered: HL Bowman repairs and installs plumbing equipment for residential customers. The company also performs work on water heaters and provides services related to heating and cooling systems as well as air quality control.

1229 39 1 6 28

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) 3105

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-296-5564 for service

Plumbers MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-380-9304

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093310011003

Services Offered: MillTown is a full-service residential and commercial plumbing contractor. Services include repair, maintenance, and installation of conventional, indirect, and tankless water heaters; plumbing fixtures; sewers; drains; gas lines; burst or frozen pipes; water filtration systems; and more. The company also offers comprehensive heating, A/C, drain clearing, sewer repair, and electrical services.

1571 53 11 12 44

Warranty: Installations and replacements have a one-year parts-and-labor warranty. Customer satisfaction is guaranteed.

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1979.

2255

Verified General Liability Insurance

Distinctions: MillTown is fully licensed and insured.

Verified Workers’ Comp

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Best Pick Guaranteed

Services Not Offered: The company does not repair washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, well pumps, or water softeners.

Verified Trade License(s)

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-380-9304 for service

Know the location of your main water shut-off valve. In emergencies, quickly stopping water flow can prevent costly home damage.

Roof Cleaning Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Ned's Power Washing, an expert division of Ned's Home 1st year as a Best Pick

978-381-8756

Educational Content COMMON ROOF CLEANING SERVICES • Roof cleaning • Soft washing • Pressure washing TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Roof cleaning is an important exterior cleaning service. It removes algae, moss, dirt, mold, and other buildup from your roof and keeps your roof in good shape. Keep an eye out for black streaks, since they can be a sign of algae growing on your shingles. Algae growth is an especially common problem in areas of the country with high humidity. Even if your area isn’t humid very often, you may find mold, mildew, and other dirty buildup on the north- and west-facing sections of your roof. Those parts of the roof receive the least amount of sunlight during the day, which makes them more susceptible to accumulation of dirt and debris. • If allowed to grow unchecked, algae, lichen, moss, and mold can eventually damage parts of your roof, like the shingles, underlayment, and decking. Roof cleaning improves a roof’s appearance and extends its life. Soft washing and low-pressure washing are the most common roof cleaning methods. If it’s done improperly, pressure washing of any sort (low or high pressure) can damage your roof. Hire only

an experienced professional who has the right tools and training. • To soft wash your roof, the cleaner will apply a cleaning solution to the entire roof with a commercial sprayer. The cleaning solution kills organic matter and makes it easier to remove. The cleaner might use a soft broom or brush to carefully loosen stubborn dirt or organic growth. Finally, they will rinse the roof with water. • Ask your roof cleaner about their cleaning solutions. If possible, opt for the most ecofriendly option available, since some of it will likely end up on your yard. The cleaning solutions recommended by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) aren’t caustic and won’t damage your landscaping. • Always verify any state-required workers’ compensation and liability insurance before contracting with a roof cleaning company. The crew will be working at dangerous heights. Using a company that is properly insured helps protect you in case of an accident. Also keep in mind that most homeowners’ insurance policies will only provide accident coverage if the company involved is adequately insured. This extra step of due diligence when making a hiring decision is well worth it.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Roof Cleaning Ned’s Power Washing, an expert division of Ned’s Home

978-381-8756

“For over 60 years, Ned’s Home has been protecting homes with reliable exterior services. Ned’s Power Washing removes buildup from your roof to help maintain its condition and appearance, protecting your home’s value.” Ned Stevens | Founder

Minimum Job: Jobs start at $400.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100799100321007

910 99 34 23 86

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-381-8756 for service

For a low-maintenance yard, choose native plants and grasses, and opt for drought-resistant plant varieties when they’re available.

Roofers Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ A & A Services Home Improvement

978-819-9175

■ United Home Experts

978-309-6227

■ Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-673-0096

■ Long Home

978-226-6906

■ GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-547-9621

■ Masterpiece Roofing

978-432-5643

11th year as a Best Pick

9th year as a Best Pick

6th year as a Best Pick

5th year as a Best Pick

3rd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON ROOFING SERVICES • Roof installation and replacement • Roof repair and maintenance • Fascia and soffit repair • Roof inspections • Storm damage assessments TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Roof ventilation is critical. Without it, hot air will become trapped in your attic and strain your HVAC system, among other problems. Roof replacement is an ideal time to improve ventilation. Ridge vents and soffit vents are a great, cost-effective solution. • Most roof leaks are caused by failed or improperly installed flashing. These leaks can sometimes be fixed with caulking, but for

a long-term fix, the flashing will need to be completely removed and replaced. • Try to minimize roof traffic. 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. They could accidentally nail into the roof, which increases the chances of a leak in that spot. • Normal settling of the house can make shingles look wavy. You may also see waves if new shingles were installed over existing shingles. Rotted decking can also cause a wavy look, as can asphalt shingles that haven’t completely bonded. Time and warm weather will fix waves caused by shingles that haven’t fully adhered.

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Roofers A & A Services Home Improvement

978-819-9175

Warranty: Roof installations have a 10-year labor warranty and a 50-year manufacturers’ warranty.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10096310001001

Services Offered: A & A Services installs asphalt shingles and flat rubber roofs for residential clients. The company also offers residential skylight installation, siding, window and door replacement, and related carpentry work. A & A Services also provides gutter installation in conjunction with complete roofing projects.

225 7 0 0 3

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Company History: The company was started in 1982 by Chris Zorzy, who has over 40 years of industry experience. A & A serves Boston’s Greater North Shore.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: The company is a member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the North Shore and Salem Chambers of Commerce. A & A Services has been BBB Accredited since 1993 with no complaints.

Verified Workers’ Comp

Additional Information: The company provides Owens Corning roofing products.

HIC 101609, CS-057733

Verified General Liability Insurance

Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-819-9175 for service

United Home Experts

978-309-6227

“At UHE, we understand the needs of New England homes because we are New Englanders. We use products made for New England as well as the latest technology and equipment to increase efficiency and improve quality. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is passionate about our craft and helping you love your home again.” John Dudley Jr. | President

Warranty: UHE offers manufacturer-backed roofing product warranties and workmanship coverage, with 50-year warranty options available. Warranty terms vary by product and project type.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093210011003

Services Offered: United Home Experts specializes in roof replacement and exterior home remodeling. Services include asphalt shingle roofing, rubber roofing projects, siding, replacement windows, exterior doors, exterior painting, interior painting, and carpentry.

211 4 3 3 7

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Company History: UHE was founded in 1998 and is family owned and professionally operated.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: UHE is an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, a Marvin Certified Installing Retailer, an Andersen Certified Contractor, and a 2019-2025 MetroWest Daily News Best Roofing Company.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Additional Information: The company offers free estimates on replacement projects and financing options.

Services Not Offered: UHE does not provide roof patching, emergency

roof repairs, repair-only jobs, labor-only installation, or product-only sales.

HIC 210547, CS-093790

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-309-6227 for service

Roofers Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-673-0096

Warranty: Capital Construction Contracting honors the GAF Golden Pledge Limited Warranty and Weather Stopper System Plus Limited Warranty.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1007251002410017

Services Offered: Capital Construction Contracting is an exterior home improvement company. Capital specializes in all types of roof systems, repairs, and replacements, including asphalt shingle, slate, copper, and EPDM rubber roofs. The company also provides siding, windows, and entry doors. Free estimates and zero-percent financing are available.

105 7 3 6 24

Rating: 4.1 out of 5

Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was started in 2005.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: Capital Construction is a GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor, A+ rated and accredited with the BBB, a member of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, and a ten-year member of CCN.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.

HIC 172146, CS-090743

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-673-0096 for service

Long Home

978-226-6906

Warranty: Long Home offers up to a 50-year warranty on roofing and up to a 50-year warranty on bath and shower remodels. 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.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10089410011005

Services Offered: Long Home specializes in asphalt shingle, metal, flat, luxury shingle, and designer roof replacement and installation. The company also offers tub-to-shower conversions; shower and bathtub remodels; and free estimates.

1946 87 21 14 111

Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 187510, CSSL-106187

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-226-6906 for service

Roofers GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-547-9621

Services Not Offered: Roof cleaning is not offered.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100915100101002

Services Offered: GF Sprague specializes in home exterior projects from repairs to full replacements, including roofing, siding, gutters, chimneys, slate, copper, and windows.

383 22 3 2 9

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 211004, CS-116075

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-547-9621 for service

Masterpiece Roofing

978-432-5643

“At Masterpiece Roofing, our mission is to give our customers a fair and accurate assessment of their roofing needs. Our experienced and skilled team members work with you to develop the best solution for your roof at a cost that fits your budget. We’re committed to earning your trust and working hard.” Marcelo Calado | General Manager

Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10001000100

Services Offered: Masterpiece Roofing is a residential and commercial roofing company that specializes in roof replacement and repair. Services include residential asphalt shingle roof replacement and repair, commercial flat and low-slope roof replacement and repair, free roof inspections, and Roof Maxx asphalt shingle roof rejuvenation treatment.

37 0 0 0 0

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Company History: The locally owned-and-operated company was established in 2022.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: Masterpiece Roofing is Accredited with the BBB and is a CertainTeed ShingleMaster.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles and wear uniforms.

HIC 205754, CS-116544

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-432-5643 for service

Siding Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ A & A Services Home Improvement

978-496-3263

■ United Home Experts

978-207-3579

■ Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-278-3862

10th year as a Best Pick

9th year as a Best Pick

6th year as a Best Pick

■ DaBella 978-350-1319 4th year as a Best Pick

■ GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-644-9589

■ Bruin Remodeling Group

978-800-7483

2nd year as a Best Pick

1st year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON SIDING SERVICES • Siding installation • Siding replacement • Vinyl and insulated vinyl siding • Fiber cement siding • Engineered wood siding • Cedar siding • Exterior home remodeling and renovation TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Signs that you need to replace your siding include warped planks, rotten areas, holes, bubbling paint, and persistent mold or mildew growth. • Siding replacement takes one to two weeks, and exterior painting takes two to four days. Before siding work begins, remove art and wall hangings and move furniture toward the middle of the room.

• Find out if your homeowners’ association has restrictions on siding materials, styles, and colors. The homeowners’ association may also have guidelines about remodeling projects that you and the contractor will need to follow. • With proper installation and maintenance, most siding products will last decades. Fiber cement, composite, and vinyl siding are easy to maintain and typically need only an annual rinse to wash away dirt and grime. • Request estimates from several contractors, but don’t make your decision only on price. Hire an experienced, reliable contractor that offers robust warranties. Siding can be installed year round, but it’s typically easier in moderate temperatures.

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Siding A & A Services Home Improvement

978-496-3263

Warranty: Installations have a ten-year labor warranty. A & A honors manufacturers’ lifetime warranties. Company History: The company was started in 1982 by Chris Zorzy, who has over 40 years of industry experience. A & A serves Boston’s Greater North Shore. Distinctions: A & A Services is a member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the North Shore and Salem Chambers of Commerce. The company is also a CertainTeed 5-Star Siding Contractor for Vinyl and Polymer Siding and has been BBB Accredited since 1993 with no complaints. Additional Information: A & A Services carries products by CertainTeed and James Hardie.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10096310001001

Services Offered: A & A Services installs vinyl and fiber cement siding. The company also offers fascia board replacement, trim wrapping, vinyl soffit replacement, roof replacement, window and door replacement, and related carpentry work for residential clients.

225 7 0 0 3

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 101609, CS-057733

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-496-3263 for service

United Home Experts

978-207-3579

Warranty: UHE offers manufacturer-backed siding product warranties and workmanship coverage, with 50-year warranty options available. Warranty terms vary by product and project type.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093210011003

Services Offered: United Home Experts specializes in siding replacement and exterior home remodeling. Services include composite, fiber cement, and vinyl siding; cedar shingles; wood clapboard; roofing; replacement windows; exterior doors; exterior painting; interior painting; and carpentry.

211 4 3 3 7

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Company History: UHE was founded in 1998 and is family owned and professionally operated.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: UHE is a 2019-2025 MetroWest Daily News Best Siding Company and an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Additional Information: The company offers free estimates on replacement projects and financing options.

Services Not Offered: UHE does not provide small siding repairs, repair-

only jobs, labor-only installation, installation of homeowner-supplied siding, product-only sales, or gutter-only projects.

HIC 210547, CS-093790

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-207-3579 for service

Siding Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-278-3862

Warranty: Capital Construction Contracting honors comprehensive James Hardie warranties.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

1007251002410017

Services Offered: Capital Construction Contracting is an exterior home improvement company specializing in James Hardie fiber cement siding and premium Alside vinyl siding. The company also installs entry doors, windows, and full roof replacement projects. Free estimates and zeropercent financing are available.

105 7 3 6 24

Rating: 4.1 out of 5

Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was started in 2005.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: Capital Construction Contracting is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, a GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor, A+ rated and accredited with the BBB, a member of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, and a ten-year member of CCN.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.

HIC 172146, CS-090743

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-278-3862 for service

DaBella 978-350-1319 “Since 2011, DaBella has grown to become one of the largest home improvement services companies in the United States. With 39 offices in 15 states, we’re striving to transform home improvement services. We work with you to create value in your home by providing outstanding service and premium products.” Donnie McMillan, Jr. | CEO

Warranty: DaBella offers the James Hardie 30-year limited warranty, the Alside lifetime limited warranty, and a labor warranty on all work performed. Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 2011. Distinctions: DaBella is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor and a GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor. The company has received the GuildQuality Guildmaster Award for multiple years and received the GAF Three Star President’s Club Award in 2018. Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and undergo background checks.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100844100110011

Services Offered: DaBella offers fiber cement and vinyl siding installation and replacement for residential customers. Siding brands include James Hardie and Alside. The company also installs and replaces roofs and windows.

292 13 3 2 37

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 198118, CS-119210

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-350-1319 for service

Siding GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-644-9589

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100915100101002

Services Offered: GF Sprague specializes in home exterior projects from repairs to full replacements, including roofing, siding, gutters, chimneys, slate, copper, and windows.

383 22 3 2 9

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 211004, CS-116075

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-644-9589 for service

Bruin Remodeling Group

978-800-7483

“For 40+ years, Bruin has delivered high-performance exterior solutions that improve curb appeal, energy efficiency, and long-term durability. Our experienced team approaches every home with care, craftsmanship, and clear communication. The result is a seamless project experience and results you’ll be proud of for years to come.” Scott Hessen | President

Warranty: Select siding offerings come with a fully transferable limited double-lifetime manufacturer warranty. Bruin also offers a ten-year labor warranty on full installs. Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1981. Distinctions: Bruin is a James Hardie Alliance Select installer. Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10096210001002

Services Offered: Bruin Remodeling Group installs, repairs, and replaces both fiber cement and vinyl siding. The company also installs windows, doors, roofing, and gutters.

371 6 0 1 9

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 205013, CS-118347

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-800-7483 for service

Water, Mold, Fire & Storm Damage Restoration Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ ServiceMaster Disaster Associates, Inc.

978-819-9176

■ AirCare Environmental Services, Inc

978-626-3184

11th year as a Best Pick

4th year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON WATER, MOLD, FIRE & STORM DAMAGE RESTORATION SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Damage from a storm, fire, or burst pipes can be dangerous and cause serious problems. Disaster recovery companies often offer 24/7 emergency services, so you can get help quickly. Be sure to also reach out to your home 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. • If the damage is the result of a large-scale natural disaster, your insurance company may be handling many claims at once. The volume of claims can mean that an adjuster might not

be able to get to you immediately. Nonetheless, most insurance policies require you to prevent further damage to your property to maintain your coverage. A restoration company can help you meet this requirement. • 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.

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Water, Mold, Fire & Storm Damage Restoration ServiceMaster Disaster Associates, Inc.

978-819-9176

“ServiceMaster is one of the largest and most respected businesses in the country, and we are dedicated to providing outstanding service, quality, and customer satisfaction no matter what type of disaster you may face.” Dan Noyes & Chris Carey | CEO & President

Warranty: The company offers a warranty on all work for up to one year, and some products carry up to a ten-year manufacturer’s warranty. Company History: ServiceMaster was founded in 1989. Distinctions: ServiceMaster is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and employs an Institute for Environmental Education (IEE) Lead-Safe Renovator Supervisor. The company is a member of the IAQA. Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10083610041000

Services Offered: ServiceMaster Disaster Associates, Inc., provides 24-hour mold remediation, water removal, water damage mitigation, reconstruction, structural drying, decontamination, and emergency services to residential and commercial customers.

40 3 3 2 0

Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 157421, CS-110437

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-819-9176 for service

AirCare Environmental Services, Inc

978-626-3184

“AirCare Environmental Services has been working hard for nearly 30 years to provide exceptional customer service.” Michael Grifone | President

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10097010001002

Services Offered: AirCare Environmental Services provides emergency water removal, water damage mitigation and restoration, mold remediation, structural drying, reconstruction services, decontamination, deodorization, sanitization, fire and smoke cleaning, and content pack-out and cleaning. The company also offers residential and commercial air duct cleaning. All estimates are free.

196 1 1 1 4

Warranty: AirCare Environmental Services offers a one-year warranty on all workmanship.

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Company History: AirCare Environmental is a local company established in 1996.

HIC 211071, CS-059240

Distinctions: AirCare Environmental Services is an IICRC Certified firm, an EPA Lead-Safe Certified firm, and is a member of NADCA. Employee Information: Uniformed employees drive marked vehicles and undergo background checks.

Minimum Job: A $1,000 job minimum is required.

Verified Trade License(s) Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-626-3184 for service

Waterproofing Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Groundworks 978-307-0356 2nd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON WATERPROOFING SERVICES • Basement waterproofing • Foundation waterproofing • Moisture and humidity control systems • Interior and exterior drainage systems • Crawl space sealing TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Basement and crawl space water problems are usually caused by hydrostatic pressure, or water in the soil pushing against the walls or floor of the basement or crawl space. Eventually, water leaks into the space. Hydrostatic pressure can be caused by poor grading, defective or clogged gutters and downspouts, and failed footing drains. A high “false” water table combined with poor soil drainage can also cause hydrostatic pressure. This happens when the water accumulates in loose soil, creating an artificially high water table. If the water doesn’t drain from the soil, it can eventually seep into below-grade sections of the house. • The fix for a water intrusion issue involves a few systems and tools. First, check that the gutters and downspouts are clear and installed correctly. Foundation cracks should be sealed. Cement block walls and mortar joints are susceptible to leakage. Sealing and waterproofing these elements helps 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. In either case, the project involves a lot of digging. Interior drainage system installation usually means that the basement or crawl space floor will be dug up to create trenches for the drain lines. Fortunately, waterproofing experts know how to do this efficiently while minimizing the mess. • If the primary cause of your water intrusion problems is foundation cracks, your contractor might recommend the injection method as a fix. This method seals cracks in a house foundation with an epoxy or polyurethane material. Once the entire crack is full of epoxy or polyurethane, the repair is complete. This solution doesn’t work for every case, but a waterproofing contractor can tell you whether injection will work for your situation. • Sump pumps are common additions to waterproofing and drainage systems. If your system includes a sump pump, be sure to have it inspected and maintained annually so it will work when you need it. Remember that sump pumps do not work without a power source. If you have frequent power outages, ask your contractor about a battery-backup sump pump.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION Companies are required to register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

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Waterproofing Groundworks 978-307-0356 “Your Boston home and basement deserve expert care. That’s why our Trained & Certified experts deliver precise, lasting basement waterproofing solutions backed by long-term warranties, upfront estimates, and financing options to fit your budget. From inspection to cleanup, our Employee-Owners provide service you can trust.” The Groundworks Team

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10097210001001

Services Offered: Groundworks offers basement waterproofing and crawl space repair services. Groundworks also provides foundation repair solutions, including foundation pier systems, wall anchor systems and straightening, and foundation wall repair systems. Additionally, Groundworks specializes in lifting sinking and settled concrete slabs, including sidewalks, patios, steps, driveways, and concrete floors.

363 7 0 0 5

Warranty: Groundworks offers nationally backed transferable warranties.

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Company History: The company was established in 1996.

Verified Trade License(s)

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and pass background checks and drug tests.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Additional Information: Many repairs are reviewed by staff engineers. Groundworks offers clear, written estimates and no-interest financing options.

Services Not Offered: Groundworks does not install new foundations or pour concrete.

HIC 216733, CS-121892

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-307-0356 for service

Love your Best Pick experience, or we’ll make it right. Register for the Best Pick Guarantee at bestpickreports.com/guarantee.

Wildlife Removal Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Trutech Wildlife Service

978-377-8085

8th year as a Best Pick

Educational Content COMMON WILDLIFE REMOVAL SERVICES • 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 TOP CONSUMER TIPS • 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. • Mice and rats live in groups and multiply rapidly. If you see one, it is likely that you have many more. Getting rid of mice and rats usually involves baiting and trapping them, removing them, and then preventing their reentry by finding and sealing up all gaps larger than a dime. • 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 reentry of other unwanted pests in the future. • Exclusion work often includes tasks like installing a chimney cap, sealing gaps at the fascia and around vents and pipes, and patching siding holes. To finish up the exclusion work, trim any tree limbs overhanging your roof and 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. Don’t give birds reasons to get close to your house.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Wildlife Removal Trutech Wildlife Service

978-377-8085

“Established in 1984, Trutech Wildlife Service has 42 years of experience and has become one of the largest wildlife removal companies. While providing quality solutions, we protect customers from the hazards of wildlife in their homes and businesses while ensuring animals are removed in a humane and ethical manner.” Company Representative

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100731910001008

Services Offered: Trutech Wildlife Service handles nuisance wildlife that includes, but is not limited to, flying and gray squirrels, raccoons, rats, mice, chipmunks, snakes, bats, birds, skunks, groundhogs, moles, voles, and stinging insects. In addition to safe and humane wildlife removal, Trutech provides preventative recurring services, insulation replacement, dead animal removal, and exclusion services.

19 5 0 0 2

Warranty: Trutech warranties all full exclusions for one year and offers renewable warranties after the first year for continual protection and peace of mind.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Company History: For 42 years, Trutech has been a leader in the wildlife removal industry.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Employee Information: Employees must pass background checks and drug tests. The company’s technicians wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles.

Trade License(s) Not Required

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed

Services Not Offered: The company does not provide services for domestic animals, termites, or bedbugs.

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-377-8085 for service

Architectural details like wainscoting, crown molding, and built-in shelving add visual interest to a room and can increase the perceived value of your house.

Window & Door Replacement Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Power Home Remodeling

978-653-3015

■ A & A Services Home Improvement

978-296-5567

■ United Home Experts

978-607-0849

■ Window Nation

978-878-7728

■ GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-386-8356

■ Renewal by Andersen

978-491-2711

11th year as a Best Pick

9th year as a Best Pick

6th year as a Best Pick

4th year as a Best Pick

2nd year as a Best Pick

Educational Content 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

• Multi-pane windows cost more than single-pane windows, but you’ll see energy savings over time. The insulating gas, usually argon or krypton, that fills the space between the glass panes reduces heat transfer through the window.

TOP CONSUMER TIPS • Nearly one-third of all residential energy loss occurs through old, poorly insulated windows and doors. Modern windows and doors are very energy efficient, so if your goal is to lower energy costs, replacing old windows and doors is smart.

• Fiberglass doors and windows are popular because of their durability, ease of maintenance, and energy efficiency. Wood doors and windows are elegant and classic, but they need regular maintenance to prevent rot and warping.

• Glass can be coated during manufacturing to further reduce heat transfer. Low-emissivity (or Low-E) glass is made with a very thin coating that reflects infrared light and UV rays from the sun to keep your house cool in the summer.

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Window & Door Replacement Power Home Remodeling

978-653-3015

“For over 30 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

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 over 25 states nationwide and Washington DC. Distinctions: Power currently ranks fourth on Qualified Remodeler’s 2025 Top 500 list and first among full-service remodelers. The company ranked third on Qualified Remodeler’s 2025 Home Improvement Professionals list. Power also ranks 14th on Fortune Magazine’s 2025 list of 100 Best Companies to Work For and 43rd on PEOPLE Magazine’s 2025 list of Companies That Care.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10088710011004

Services Offered: Power Home Remodeling specializes in exterior remodeling services, offering roof and siding replacement, window and door replacement, and attic insulation.

1940 146 21 15 86

Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 168616, CS-057645

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-653-3015 for service

A & A Services Home Improvement

978-296-5567

Warranty: Installations have a ten-year labor warranty. A & A honors manufacturers’ lifetime warranties.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10096310001001

Services Offered: A & A Services installs energy-efficient windows and doors and offers related carpentry work. Products include double-hung, casement, bay, and bow windows and patio, entry, and French doors. Other services include roofing and siding. All services are offered for residential clients.

225 7 0 0 3

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Company History: The company was started in 1982 by Chris Zorzy, who has over 40 years of industry experience. A & A serves Boston’s Greater North Shore.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: A & A Services is a member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the North Shore and Salem Chambers of Commerce, and has been BBB Accredited since 1993 with no complaints.

Verified Workers’ Comp

Additional Information: A & A carries Home Guard Industries windows and doors and ProVia doors.

Minimum Job: A four-window minimum is required.

HIC 101609, CS-057733

Verified General Liability Insurance

Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-296-5567 for service

Window & Door Replacement United Home Experts

978-607-0849

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10093210011003

Services Offered: United Home Experts specializes in replacement windows, exterior doors, and exterior home remodeling. The company installs replacement windows and doors from brands including Marvin, Andersen, ProVia, and Harvey. Services also include roofing, siding, exterior painting, interior painting, and carpentry.

211 4 3 3 7

Warranty: UHE offers manufacturer-backed window and door product warranties and workmanship coverage. Warranty terms vary.

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Company History: UHE was founded in 1998 and is family owned and operated.

Verified Trade License(s)

Distinctions: UHE is a Marvin Certified Installing Retailer, an Andersen Certified Contractor, a ProVia Certified Installer, and a 2019-2025 MetroWest Daily News Best Window Company.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Additional Information: The company offers free estimates on replacement projects and financing options.

Best Pick Guaranteed

Services Not Offered: UHE does not provide repair-only window or door services, glass-only replacement, labor-only installation, installation of homeowner-supplied products, or product-only sales.

HIC 210547, CS-093790

Verified Workers’ Comp

Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-607-0849 for service

Window Nation

978-878-7728

“We offer premium windows and doors specifically designed for the Massachusetts 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.” Jeff Beck | CEO

Warranty: Window Nation offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee. Company History: The company was founded in 2016.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10088310011006

Services Offered: Window Nation installs custom vinyl windows and doors for residents of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island.

709 27 9 12 49

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.

Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Verified General Liability Insurance

Services Not Offered: The company does not install glass block or repair products that it did not install.

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 197968, CS-116396

Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed

Minimum Job: A three-window minimum is required. Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-878-7728 for service

Window & Door Replacement GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-386-8356

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100915100101002

Services Offered: GF Sprague specializes in home exterior projects from repairs to full replacements, including roofing, siding, gutters, chimneys, slate, copper, and windows.

383 22 3 2 9

Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC 211004, CS-116075

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-386-8356 for service

Renewal by Andersen

978-491-2711

“Renewal by Andersen is the premier window replacement division of Andersen Windows, a company with over 120 years of innovation in crafting high-quality windows. With our customer-centered experience and our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, we stand by our work now and for years to come.” Nate Hunter | General Manager

Warranty: The Renewal by Andersen Products and Installation Transferable Limited Warranty includes 20 years on frames and glass, 10 years on parts and hardware, and 5 years on professional installation. Company History: Renewal by Andersen was founded in 1995; the local branch has been serving the community for more than 20 years. Distinctions: Renewal by Andersen is A+ Rated and Accredited with the BBB, a 2024 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year - Sustained Excellence, and a 2024 Bob Vila Home Improvement Heroes award recipient. The company has more than 2,000 5-star reviews in Boston. Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms, and are background checked.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

10096110001002

Services Offered: Renewal by Andersen offers replacement windows, entry doors, and patio doors in its proprietary Fibrex material, which is two times stronger than vinyl. Financing and free inspections are available.

1989 27 9 8 33

Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Verified Trade License(s) HIC170810, CS-090125

Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-491-2711 for service

Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing Best Pick Reports recommends: ■ Ned's Window Cleaning and Power Washing 1st year as a Best Pick

978-971-3420

Educational Content COMMON WINDOW CLEANING & PRESSURE WASHING SERVICES • Interior and exterior window cleaning • Pressure washing • House washing • Low-pressure roof cleaning • Deck and fence cleaning • Driveway, patio, and pool deck cleaning TOP CONSUMER TIPS • 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.

TRADE LICENSE INFORMATION The state of Massachusetts does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.

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Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing Ned’s Window Cleaning and Power Washing

978-971-3420

“For over 60 years, Ned’s Home has been protecting homes with reliable exterior services. Ned’s Window Cleaning and Power Washing removes buildup from exterior surfaces to help maintain your home’s appearance and safety.” Ned Stevens | Founder

Minimum Job: Jobs start at $269.

Homeowner Satisfaction Results

100799100321007

910 99 34 23 86

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Trade License(s) Not Required Verified General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed Scan QR Code to visit us online or call 978-971-3420 for service

Every Best Pick company holds general liability insurance and all state-required workers’ compensation insurance. Best Pick Reports verifies this directly with the insurance providers.

Additional Information BEST PICK REPORTS OVERVIEW • 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. WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT • 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. HOW COMPANIES ARE QUALIFIED • 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 partnership with 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.

Additional Information • • • • •

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.

BEST PICK GUARANTEE • 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. INSURANCE & LICENSE VERIFICATION • 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. CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY • 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. COMPANIES AND CATEGORIES NOT LISTED • 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.

Homeowner Protection Tips Prices that seem too good to be true usually are. Some companies that offer “great deals” provide low-quality work or use substandard materials, while others engage in questionable business practices like tax dodging or working without insurance. Some companies will raise the price or add items after the homeowner commits to the project. Be wary of a company selling door to door. Some contractors have well-rehearsed, door-to-door scams designed to quickly separate you from your money. They travel from city to city preying on unsuspecting homeowners; unfortunately, many of these scam artists target elderly residents. Reputable contractors rely more on referrals than door-to-door sales. Resist high-pressure sales. Some companies offer “today only” incentives to encourage you to make a quick decision. Avoid companies practicing this high-pressure sales technique. If a company tries to force you to make a decision before you can do your homework, they probably do not want you to inspect them too closely. Avoid moonlighters. A moonlighter is an employee who steals a customer from his or her employer. Moonlighters are not as concerned about their reputations as established companies may be. Furthermore, to offer a lower price, the moonlighter often avoids such things as insurance, taxes, licenses, and other overhead. Check for licenses and insurance. Research the company to make sure that they have the required trade licenses and insurance for their line of work. Never rely on a company for insurance or license verification; instead contact the issuing authority directly to ensure validity. Licenses and insurance can expire at any time, so verify this information before making a hiring decision. Make sure you’re on the same page with the contractor. All project details and verbal commitments should be in writing before signing a contract. Reliable companies use written contracts to clarify terms and set mutual expectations.

Only compare apples to apples. Educate yourself about the quality of what you are buying, or taking the lowest price may cost you more in the end. Some companies knowingly deliver low quality at a low price. In sales calls, these companies do not stress the low quality as much as a low price. Always get the details in writing when comparing companies. Avoid business on a handshake. If a company representative or contractor claims his or her handshake is as good as a contract, keep looking. Reputable companies that sell large-ticket items and services insist on contracts.

Homeowner Protection Tips Avoid paying for everything up front. If you make a large, up-front cash payment to a company that promptly goes out of business or skips town, you will lose that money. If an up-front payment is unavoidable, consider charging the payment to a credit card. Your credit card company may allow you to dispute the charge if services are not rendered. Be wary of the vocal minority. The small percentage of customers who submit online reviews tends to skew to extremes. You will typically find reviews that provide overwhelming praise for the company or a harsh recounting of the homeowner’s experience. The validity of these reviews is not in question, but the two extremes are not truly representative of a company’s overall performance. Never open an account in your name for a contractor. Some individuals or contractors request an account at a local store in the homeowner’s name to allow the contractor to charge the homeowner’s materials directly to this account. If a contractor’s credit is not good enough to open an account, you should probably stay away. Never make the final payment until you are completely happy. Contractors could be much less interested in making you happy after they have been paid in full. Some less-reputable individuals will present many seemingly plausible reasons why you should pay them now instead of waiting until the end of the project. Do not be pressured into paying early. Thoroughly check references. Before hiring a contractor for a major project such as remodeling, interview a few of the company’s references. When talking with references, ask questions about quality, schedule adherence, cleanup, communication, and disagreement resolution. For an accurate idea of the company’s overall performance, check more than one reference. Request lien releases. A lien is a claim made against a homeowner’s property by an individual or company that has supplied labor or materials and has not been paid. A subcontractor can legally place a lien on your property if the general contractor fails to pay him or her. To avoid a lien on your house, make the receipt of lien releases from the contractor and all subcontractors a condition of payment. Avoid cash payments. Some contractors and service providers demand cash payments or offer substantial discounts for cash payments to avoid bounced checks and garnished wages. Cash payments are hard to track, but checks and other non-cash payment forms leave a paper trail, which is very useful if you ever need to prove you actually paid a bill.

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

FALL Get your home ready for chilly evenings and falling leaves.

INSIDE Inspect and clean fireplace and chimney Inspect and clean furnace

The chimney and hearth area must be clean and unblocked to function properly and safely.

Running fans clockwise at a low speed will recirculate any warm air that rises up toward the ceiling.

Check air filters for cleaning or replacement Set ceiling fan blades to run clockwise

OUTSIDE Seed lawn, fertilize cool-season grass, and apply pre-emergent herbicide Check windows and doors for gaps; caulk or weatherstrip as needed

Consider installing gutter guards or screens to keep debris from becoming a problem as leaves begin to fall.

Prune trees and remove dead branches Check roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles

Clean gutters and downspouts

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Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

WINTER A little work now will help you stay safe and warm until springtime returns. Carbon monoxide can only be detected by monitors; it is odorless, tasteless, and colorless.

INSIDE Lubricate garage door and check door alignment Check air filters for cleaning or replacement Inspect electrical system Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Clean refrigerator coils

OUTSIDE

Frozen pipes can burst and create significant water damage as they thaw.

Insulate exposed pipes and spigots Check for cracks in driveway, home foundation, and patio

Concrete and foundation cracks can worsen through the winter freeze/thaw cycles. Keep a careful eye on them and call an expert for help.

Check for leaning trees near home Inspect landscaping and prepare for spring

Scan for Free Access Downloadable PDF checklist

Seasonal email reminders

Expert maintenance tips

Local contractor directory

Can’t scan? No problem! Visit BestPickReports.com/blog/post/seasonal-checklist

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

SPRING Spring clean like a pro to get ready for sunshine and warm weather.

INSIDE Clean out junk and debris from house and yard Clean air ducts

Carpet fibers hold on to oil and allergens, so it’s important to get high-traffic rooms professionally cleaned at least once a year.

A properly mowed lawn will create healthier, denser grass and fewer weeds.

Check air filters for cleaning or replacement Set ceiling fan blades to run counterclockwise

OUTSIDE Aerate lawn, fertilize cool-season grass, and apply pre-emergent herbicide Check roof for leaks and damaged shingles

Inspect the roof from both the inside and outside to check for evidence of leaks and missing or damaged shingles.

Clean gutters and downspouts Start up sprinkler system and pool Wash windows

Get Timely Reminders Sent Straight to Your Phone! Join 10,000+ smart homeowners getting seasonal reminders

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

SUMMER Keep your home comfortable and your backyard ready for impromptu parties.

Most turf grasses require three-fourths to one inch of water per week to stay green and grow normally.

INSIDE Lubricate garage door and check door alignment Check plumbing for leaks, rust, and damaged pipes Drain and refill water heater Check air filters for cleaning or replacement

OUTSIDE

Preventative tree pruning reduces wind resistance, which may decrease limb loss during heavy storms.

Fertilize warm-season grass Water lawn an average of one inch of water per week Mow lawn every seven to ten days

Pressure washing extends the life of outdoor features and keeps your home’s exterior looking its best.

Inspect trees for dead branches as well as pest and disease issues Pressure wash siding and fence Restain or reseal deck

Scan for Free Access Downloadable PDF checklist

Seasonal email reminders

Expert maintenance tips

Local contractor directory

Can’t scan? No problem! Visit BestPickReports.com/blog/post/seasonal-checklist

Frequently Asked Questions HOW ARE COMPANIES SELECTED FOR BEST PICK REPORTS? 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.

HOW DOES BEST PICK REPORTS CONDUCT RESEARCH? 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.

WHERE DID YOU GET MY INFO? 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.

DO MANY COMPANIES NOT QUALIFY AS A BEST PICK? 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.

WHY ISN’T MY FAVORITE SERVICE PROVIDER LISTED? 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.

HOW IS BEST PICK REPORTS FUNDED? 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.

WHY SHOULD I USE BEST PICK REPORTS? 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.

WHY ARE YOUR PHONE NUMBERS DIFFERENT FROM THE COMPANY’S WEBSITE? 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 or website, the company will know that you’re calling through Best Pick Reports due to this unique number.

HOW CAN I GET IN TOUCH? Phone: 877-906-7575 Mail: 7700 Irvine Center Dr, Suite 430 Irvine, CA 92618 Email: helpdesk@bestpickreports.com

Certified Best Pick Companies

Phone

2026 Best Picks Quick Reference Sheet

Certified Best Pick Companies Phone

Certified Best Pick Companies

Heating & Air Conditioning

Phone

978-377-8083

Dryer Vent Cleaning

Heritage Home Service

978-309-6225

Appliance Repair

Cranney Home Services

978-223-2021

978-404-8361

128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

978-207-3576

Ned's Dryer Vent Cleaning, a division of Ned's Home

978-819-9171

HL Bowman

978-490-1864

Heritage Home Service

978-377-8082

UltraFix Appliance Repair

978-241-6286 Cranney Home Services

MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

978-401-9692

978-207-3575

Ace Hardware Home Services

MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-878-2258

978-380-9311

Electricians

Owens Corning Basement Finishing System of New England 978-503-3849

Basement Remodeling

Ulta Home Improvements

978-487-5857

Fences

Bathtub & Shower Conversions Long Home 978-616-6670 Patriot Fence Crafters

A.J. Rose Carpets and Flooring

978-829-5994

978-607-0843

Ulta Home Improvements

DP Custom Homes & Renovations

978-678-8552

978-915-3625

Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling

DP Custom Homes & Renovations

Home Remodeling & Additions

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel by Capital 978-203-3555

Flooring

Ulta Home Improvements

Masonry - Brick & Stone

978-972-4778

Kohler by Rite Window 978-763-4365

978-296-5560

Foundation Repair

978-223-2020

BATH FITTER Boston South

Master Chimney Sweepers 978-207-3574

Chimneys & Fireplaces

Chim-Chimney Sweepers

Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-819-8088

Groundworks 978-404-4965

Movers

978-422-1233

Garage Doors

GF Sprague and Company LLC

Concrete Leveling & Raising

Door Systems Garage Door Group

Outdoor Kitchens & Living Spaces

978-915-2821

978-207-3577

Gutter & Gutter Guard Installation 978-819-9172

Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

Isaac's Moving & Storage

Erickson Foundation Solutions

A & A Services Home Improvement

978-581-8379

Painters

978-276-6358

Groundworks 978-890-2318

Ned Stevens Gutter Installation, a division of Ned's Home

978-363-6960

978-391-2504

Deck Building & Maintenance 978-278-3859

GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-297-8350

Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-720-9231

Flash Moving & Storage

DP Custom Homes & Renovations

Arch Painting Inc.

978-607-0845

978-440-2563

978-736-2667

Paver Installation

Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-878-5918

Ulta Home Improvements

LeafFilter Gutter Protection

Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning, a division of Ned's Home

Gutter Cleaning

978-404-8473

978-309-6223

978-673-0101

Plum ProExteriors

MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-607-0842

Drain/Sewer Cleaning & Repair

Cranney Home Services

978-301-8864

A1 Exterminators, part of Ned's Home

978-207-3578 978-296-5564 978-380-9304

128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

HL Bowman

MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

978-309-6227 978-673-0096 978-226-6906 978-547-9621 978-432-5643

United Home Experts

Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

Long Home

GF Sprague and Company LLC

Masterpiece Roofing

978-207-3579 978-278-3862

United Home Experts

Capital Construction Contracting Inc.

978-644-9589 978-800-7483

GF Sprague and Company LLC

Bruin Remodeling Group

DaBella 978-350-1319

978-496-3263

A & A Services Home Improvement

Siding

GF Sprague and Company LLC

978-819-9175

A & A Services Home Improvement

Ned's Window Cleaning and Power Washing

Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing

Renewal by Andersen

Window Nation

United Home Experts

Ned's Power Washing, an expert division of Ned's Home

Roofers

A & A Services Home Improvement

Power Home Remodeling

Window & Door Replacement

Trutech Wildlife Service

Roof Cleaning 978-381-8756

978-223-2023

Cranney Home Services

978-971-3420

978-491-2711

978-386-8356

978-878-7728

978-607-0849

978-296-5567

978-653-3015

978-377-8085

Groundworks 978-307-0356

978-819-9174

Heritage Home Service

Wildlife Removal

Waterproofing

978-626-3184

978-819-9176

Phone

Plumbers

AirCare Environmental Services, Inc

ServiceMaster Disaster Associates, Inc.

978-541-4019

Trutech Wildlife Service

Certified Best Pick Companies Water, Mold, Fire & Storm Damage Restoration

Phone

Pest & Termite Control

Certified Best Pick Companies

Quick Reference Sheet

2026 Best Picks

Web: www.bestpickreports.com

Email: helpdesk@bestpickreports.com

Phone: 877-906-7575

Questions? Get In Touch.

“Best Pick Reports is very easy. We found a contractor that we have been happy with. Our friend used the same contractor and was happy. He did our floors and two other projects and was consistent with quality work. I like that the book has vetted contractors.” John H. | Oakton, VA

“I was able to find a contractor quickly with the book, and they met my expectations.” Anita J. | Atlanta, GA

“It’s very easy to use. What’s more important to me are the references and ratings that are provided through the directory. So far I have only had a good experience. I feel confident using the Best Pick Reports booklet.” Jerry C. | Prosper, TX

“I use Best Pick Reports for referrals for everything and it’s wonderful!” Anthony R. | Halethorpe, MD

“The contractor I found met my expectations. I like the book. It meets my needs, it’s easy to read, and it has enough information.” Mel G. | Washington, DC

What Homeowners Say About Us

About Us About Best Pick Reports 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.

Best Pick Reports is part of a group of companies dedicated to helping homeowners by making it easier to find reliable local service providers through improved online visibility and strategic digital marketing. Our work ensures that the companies you see online are more responsive, trustworthy, and ready to take your call. In short, they connect you with the right professionals at the moment you need them most.

Benefits: Find providers faster

Hire with confidence

Get quicker responses

through improved search results and directory listings

thanks to better reviews and trustworthy online profiles

since businesses are motivated to answer calls and inquiries

Our Family of Brands:  Remodeling.com is an online performance marketing firm that uses search engines and other digital marketing strategies to promote local companies and service providers  Five Star Rated is different from the average home services guide. Our consumer guide rates and recommends the best local home service companies  Contractor On Call by Restoration Local™ is an independent restoration referral company that connects homeowners and property managers with contractors in their area.

The Best Directory Is Also ONLINE!

Best Pick Reports 7700 Irvine Center Dr, Suite 430 Irvine, CA 92618

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID Best Pick Reports, LLC

• Find a professional • Learn about home care • Register for the Guarantee

Best of all, IT’S FREE! For our digital directory of top-rated pros, scan the QR code or ask your voice assistant: “Go to bestpickreports.com”

North Shore Air Conditioning & Heating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Mold Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Animal Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Movers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Appliance Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Outdoor Kitchens & Living Spaces. . . . . . . . . . 52

Basement Remodeling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Painters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling. . . . . . . . . . . 46

Paver Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Bathtub & Shower Conversions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Pest & Termite Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Chimneys & Fireplaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Plumbers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Concrete Leveling & Raising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Pressure Washing & Window Cleaning . . . . . . 84

Deck Building & Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Roof Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Door & Window Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Roofers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Drain/Sewer Cleaning & Repair. . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Sewer/Drain Cleaning & Repair. . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Dryer Vent Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Shower & Bathtub Conversions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Electricians. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Siding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Fences. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Termite & Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Water, Mold, Fire & Storm Damage Restoration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Waterproofing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Wildlife Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Window & Door Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing . . . . . . 84 Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Homeowner Protection Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Seasonal Maintenance Checklist. . . . . . . . . . . 90 FAQs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Quick Reference Sheet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

FREE Local Reference for Homeowners!