Certifying the Best Home Service Companies Since 1997
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The Best Pick® certification has represented excellence in service for 28 years. Our mission is to connect homeowners with quality home service companies so that you can easily find a top-rated company for any home project.
www.bestpickreports.com
To establish the recommendations in each Best Pick Reports® publication, we calculate a star rating based on the past three years of a company’s customer reviews. We use our own survey platform, work with our sister research company GuildQuality to survey a company’s previous customers and, if needed, analyze Google reviews. We also evaluate a company’s credit history and financial standing. Only the companies that meet our qualification standards are invited to participate in the Best Pick program.
RESEARCH
We rely on online reviews, independent surveys, and company financial data to identify top local companies in dozens of home service categories.
Inclusion is by invitation alone and is extended only if the company has met our qualification standards.
At least 80% of responses via our in-house customer surveying must be positive. We also look for 25+ Google reviews and a 4.0+ rating.
We publish Certified Best Pick® companies semi-annually. Companies pay a fee for research and publication distribution.
We verify that companies carry all state-required licenses and insurance.
Companies are backed by the Best Pick Guarantee, giving homeowners security and confidence when hiring.
Getting referrals from your neighbors is a traditional method of identifying a company you feel you can trust, but a limited number of referrals does not always tell the whole story. This is why we take word of mouth to the next level by analyzing independent customer surveys and online reviews.
By proactively seeking homeowner feedback, we make sure that the reviews we use to rate companies are not from a biased, vocal minority, as is commonly the case with other review guides. Companies also cannot buy a good rating; the only way they can obtain the Certified Best Pick® designation is to earn it by having many satisfied customers and maintaining their stellar reputation year after year.
This is your guide to the best home service experiences. We only recommend the Best Picks for your home projects. See what we do best:
Features a short list of top local companies and their accurate ratings
Stands behind recommendations with a service guarantee
Rates companies based on customer feedback
Communicates with insurance agencies to verify coverage annually
Relies on a dedicated team for qualification monitoring
Proactively publishes reviews
Directly confirms trade licenses every year with state authorities
Prints all state-required trade license numbers for each company
Best Pick Reports, LLC, engages in extensive research to compile the information available in connection with the Best Pick Reports® publications and web site (BestPickReports.com). (Collectively, the publications and web site are referred to as the “reports.”) The reports are based upon the opinions of homeowners interviewed. Best Pick Reports is not affiliated with any government body or agency. The specific methodologies used by Best Pick Reports are discussed in detail in the Additional Information section of the report. Best Pick Reports makes no predictions or guarantees regarding the availability, ability, or willingness of a service provider to provide services. The reports are provided “as is,” and all warranties, representations, or endorsements, express or implied, oral or written, with regard to the reports, including, without limitation, any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are expressly disclaimed by Best Pick Reports. You agree Best Pick Reports and its parent and related companies are not responsible for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, punitive, consequential, or any other damages that may result in any way from your use of or inability to use the reports. Except eligible refunds pursuant to the Best Pick Guarantee, Best Pick Reports’ (and its parent and related companies’) total aggregate liability to you for any claims relating in any way to the reports shall be limited to the refund of any amount paid by you to Best Pick Reports for the report that is the subject of the claim. All statements concerning insurance, licenses, etc., are informational only and are verified on an annual basis. Additionally, license information presented refers only to the titled category a company has been recommended for, and does not refer to or make any determina
• Air conditioning and heating services
• Equipment repair and replacement
• System troubleshooting
• Maintenance agreements
• Refrigerant recharging or refilling
• HVAC system and equipment installation
• Thermostat installation, replacement, and troubleshooting
• Humidifier and dehumidifier installation
• 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.
“We have customers that were with us when my father began the business in 1947. As a company recognized for its training excellence, Central’s technicians have the knowledge and resources to serve our customers’ needs. We stand behind every job, no matter how large or small, with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.” Jim Woolley, Jr. | Owner
Services Offered: Central offers repair services, energy-efficient equipment installations, service agreements, energy audits, and home performance testing and solutions. Central is a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer and services all brands.
Warranty: The company offers extensive warranties and a 100 percent satisfaction money-back guarantee.
Company History: Jim Woolley is Central’s second-generation, hands-on owner. Central has provided residential and commercial HVAC services for 78 years.
Distinctions: The company is a 2007, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 Carrier President’s Award winner and employs technicians certified by the North American Technician Excellence (NATE), the National Comfort Institute (NCI), and the Building Performance Institute (BPI). Manager Keith MacKinnon serves on the advisory board of Gwinnett Technical College.
“At Casteel, we’re serious about taking ‘Amazing Care’ of you! That means we’ll care for your home as if it’s our own. If you aren’t completely satisfied, we’ll refund your money. That’s just one of the reasons families trust Casteel for outstanding heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical service.” Dave
Services Offered: Casteel Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical provides residential heating and cooling services, including installation, repair, and maintenance for furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioning systems, and thermostats. Casteel offers residential electrical and plumbing, indoor air quality, and 24/7 emergency services.
Warranty: Casteel offers a two-year guarantee on repairs as well as various warranties on heating and air conditioning installations.
Company History: Casteel was founded in 1987.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, use drop cloths, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: The company does not install or service industrial or commercial systems.
Geiger | Owner
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) CN211288
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
“Our mission is to carry on the tradition of integrity and quality that started in 1949 when Estes was founded. We’ll always strive to employ the best people and provide the most efficient, effective service and the best warranties available to our customers, including a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on all services and installations.” Tommy Estes | President
Services Offered: Estes provides preventive maintenance, repair, and replacement of heating and air conditioning systems. Estes also performs duct cleaning, electrical, plumbing, and insulation work.
Warranty: Estes offers a variety of parts-and-labor warranties and honors all manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: Founded by N.B. Estes, the company has served Atlanta for 76 years. Estes has over 150 professionals on staff and offices located on the south and north sides of metro Atlanta.
Distinctions: Estes is a ten-time Carrier President’s Award winner, a past winner of Contracting Business magazine’s Residential Contractor of the Year award, and employs a NATE certified technician.
Additional Information: Estes is a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer and Hall of Fame member that specializes in Carrier products but installs and services all major HVAC brands.
“Since 1968, R.S. Andrews has proudly served greater Atlanta and delivered smiles to countless customers. We have expert technicians to provide you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your heating, air conditioning, and plumbing needs. Customer service is our number one priority.” Dari Payrow | President
Services Offered: R.S. Andrews provides repair, maintenance, and installation of air conditioning and heating equipment. The company also offers indoor air quality products and air duct cleaning.
Warranty: The company offers parts-and-labor warranties ranging from one to ten years.
Company History: R.S. Andrews was founded in 1968.
Distinctions: The company received the Dave Lennox 5 Year Excellence Award in 2011 and is a Lennox Premier Dealer. The company employs National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) and North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certified technicians. R.S. Andrews is a member of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association and the Plumbing & Mechanical Association of Georgia.
Employee Information: Employees are background checked and certified drug-free.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified
“TE is an award-winning company that has served the Atlanta area for over 20 years. We value your time, so we offer same-day service, 3-hour arrival windows, and a call 30 minutes before we arrive. You can also count on written estimates and flat-rate pricing. Our technicians drive fully stocked trucks, so they are ready for any task.” Josh Brooker | Owner
Services Offered: TE installs, repairs, and maintains all brands of heating and cooling equipment, thermostats, humidifiers, UV lights, and air quality solutions. The company also offers the HomeCare maintenance plan, as well as plumbing and electrical services.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime workmanship warranty on all work.
Company History: TE was established in 2003.
Employee Information: The company’s certification program requires a written test, weekly training, a background check, drug tests, and five years of experience.
5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) CN211140
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified
“Caring for you and your family’s comfort and safety is foremost in our minds. Well-trained, knowledgeable, and friendly technicians who always put your interests first is the key.” The Cunningham Team
Services Offered: Cunningham Associates maintains, repairs, and installs HVAC equipment. The company also offers maintenance agreements and installs a variety of products, including dehumidifiers, humidifiers, and indoor air quality solutions.
Warranty: The company honors all manufacturers’ warranties and offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. Ten-year parts-and-labor warranties are offered with new equipment purchases. Maintenance and fullcoverage agreements are also available.
Company History: The company was founded in 2003.
Employee Information: The company has front-line employee accessibility and trains all technicians with an emphasis on honesty.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
Pick Reports recommends:
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7th year as a Best Pick
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3rd year as a Best Pick
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• 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
• Keep your refrigerator temperature set between 35 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit and the freezer 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.
• Low water temperatures can be one reason dishes are not getting completely clean in the dishwasher. Check that your water heater is set 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. 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, so replace yours about every five years.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“Honesty is the best policy. Appliance Care of Atlanta was created with the vision to always treat the customer as king and to build relationships where the client feels like family and not just a simple transaction. We were built on honesty, integrity, experience, and quality work that we look forward to providing for many years to come.” Orest Glushchak | Owner
Services Offered: Appliance Care of Atlanta repairs, installs, and maintains appliances, including refrigerators, freezers, and ice makers; dishwashers and garbage disposals; ovens and ranges; microwaves and vent hoods; washing machines and dryers; wine coolers; and more. The $69.95 service charge is waived with repairs.
Warranty: Appliance Care of Atlanta offers a 90-day parts warranty and a 30-day labor warranty.
Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 2014. Owner Orest Glushchak has worked in the industry for over 25 years.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.
Services Not Offered: Appliance Care does not service kegerators, dehumidifiers, coffee machines, small appliances, or vacuums. The company does not work on items under warranty or sell replacement parts. Call for more information on appliances that we do and don’t service.
of
Not
“Appliance Tech Pros & Refrigeration Repair LLC is a locally owned-and-operated company with over 15 years of industry experience. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building trust with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!” The Appliance Tech Pros Team
Services Offered: Appliance Tech Pros & Refrigeration Repair LLC specializes in repair and maintenance for most major appliances, including ice machines; all types of refrigerators, including basic and built-in units; garbage disposals; wine coolers; dishwashers; trash compactors; all types of electric and gas ovens, ranges, and stoves; vent hoods; and washers and dryers.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, a 30day labor warranty, and a 90-day parts warranty.
Company History: The local company was established in 2014 by Josh Glushchak.
Additional Information: The company works on a wide range of brands, including Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, KitchenAid, Sub-Zero, Wolf, Viking, Thermador, Dacor, Bosh, GE, JennAir, Scotsman, and more.
Minimum Job: A $60 diagnostic fee is required, which is waived if repair work is done.
4.9 out of 5 Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance Workers’ Comp Exempt
“At ERI Appliance Repair & Installation, we’re dedicated to providing the community with quality services. We know there can be a lot of hassle involved in repairing appliances, so our team strives to make everything as stress-free as possible. Our team brings 15 years of experience and skill to each project to provide you with the best service.” Irina
Ekler | Founder
Services Offered: ERI Appliance Repair & Installation offers repair, installation, and maintenance services for most household appliances, including freezers, ice makers, refrigerators, ovens, ranges, vent hoods, dishwashers, microwaves, washers, and dryers.
Warranty: ERI Appliance Repair & Installation offers a 90-day parts warranty and a 30-day labor warranty.
Company History: The family-owned company was established in 2021 with a team of industry veterans with 15 years of experience.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Additional Information: A $65 service charge is waived with completed repair. The company provides service for all major appliance brands.
Services Not Offered: The company does not service vacuum cleaners, coffee machines, or toasters.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Workers’ Comp Exempt
Best Pick Guaranteed
“The Best Pick Reports guidebook is helpful. I’d recommend it.” –Mary S. | Mt. Prospect, IL
■ Jacuzzi Bath Remodel of Atlanta 678-563-1988 1st year as a Best Pick
• Bathtub and shower conversion services
• One-day bathroom remodeling services
• Design services
• Shower and tub replacement
• Cabinet installation
• Tile installation
• Countertop installation
• Fixture installation
• You can expect a tub-to-shower conversion project to be completed in about a day. A bathtub that is already surrounded by walls can be replaced with a shower relatively easily. The installers may need to make some plumbing adjustments, but the drains and water lines should already be in place.
• The shower-to-tub conversion process is similar to that of converting a bathtub to a shower. Your contractor will remove the shower stall and install a bathtub in its place. These projects normally take one or two days. Most contractors use one-piece bathtub units made of either fiberglass or acrylic for conversion projects.
• Tub and shower conversion contractors often offer one-day bathroom “facelifts,” or cosmetic
remodels. If your bathroom doesn’t have functional issues, a bathroom facelift might be the perfect solution.
• Most bathroom facelift projects include replacing plumbing fixtures, vanities, and shelving as well as a new coat of paint. New mirrors, lighting fixtures, and other accessories offer a nice finishing touch. These projects are usually done in days, compared to the multi-week timeline of a conventional remodeling project. The key difference is that a cosmetic refresh involves very minimal demolition and structural carpentry work, if any at all. Your contractor won’t be moving plumbing or electrical lines, so they won’t need to open walls. This helps keep the timeline as short as possible. Instead, the project’s focus will be on the smaller details that are easier to change out. While these changes might not make a huge mess, they still make a tremendous impact on the look and feel of the bathroom.
• The key to a successful tub and shower conversion or bathroom facelift is a reputable, experienced contractor. Interview and request bids from at least three companies so you’ll have enough information to make a good comparison. Try to resist being swayed by price alone. Your budget is certainly important, but the lowest bid may not result in the outcome you want.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“At Jacuzzi Bath Remodel of Atlanta, our mission is Jacuzzi for Life: Inspiring joy and well-being through innovative wellness products.” The Jacuzzi Bath Remodel of Atlanta Team
Services Offered: Jacuzzi Bath Remodel of Atlanta specializes in bathroom remodeling services for residential clients. Services include tub-to-shower conversion, shower replacement, and standard and jetted bathtubs. Financing and free estimates are available.
Warranty: Jacuzzi Bath products and installation services carry a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Company History: The company began in 1997.
Distinctions: The company is BBB Accredited, a member of the National Association of Home Builders, and a TheHomeMag Certified Partner.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles and wear company uniforms.
Services Not Offered: The company does not install toilets, vanities, or flooring and does not offer tile work. Services are not offered for new construction or buildings over three stories.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ Castleberry Shutters, Inc.
21st year as a Best Pick | The company does not provide exterior shutters or offer blind repair or draperies.
• Measurement, manufacture, installation, and repair of blinds, shades, and indoor shutters
• Wood and faux wood, vertical, and fabric blinds
• Roman, pleated, woven wood, cellular, vertical cellular, and solar shades
• Custom draperies
• Motorized shades and blinds
• Custom window treatments can pull a room together aesthetically, but they also serve a practical purpose. Shutters, shades, and blinds provide privacy and help cut heat transfer through the window. They also minimize glare and protect your belongings from UV rays. Over time, sunlight can fade flooring, carpeting, furniture, and artwork.
• The Window Covering Safety Council recommends cordless window coverings if you have children or pets. If replacing corded blinds and shades in your house isn’t in the budget right now, secure all loose cords with cord cleats. All window blinds on the market in the United States are now cordless, so the transition will be easy once you’re ready to make that update.
• Plantation shutters are a traditional-style interior window treatment. These types of shutters offer
privacy and light control. Plantation shutters fit snugly within the window frame, so they’re usually custom built. Side hinges let the louvered panels swing open to the interior of the room.
• Unlike shutters and blinds, shades don’t have slats that light can pass through. Instead, you control the amount of natural light in a room by pulling the window shade up or down. Shades come in a wide variety of materials. Popular types include woven wood and honeycomb shades. Solera, vignette, and roman shades are also popular. Most shades are easy to clean. Some can even be pretreated to resist dusty buildup and stains.
• Up to 40 percent of a home’s heat escapes through the windows in winter, and a similar amount enters through the windows in summer. This heat transfer can increase heating and cooling bills. Plantation shutters and cellular shades provide excellent insulation against heat and cold and can help keep utility costs in check.
• Consider motorized window coverings for windows that are difficult to reach but still need sunlight control. Almost any window treatment can be motorized, and most can be controlled with a smartphone app.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“We consider ourselves the best shutter company in town, and we’re proud of our 71-year history. We work hard to get the job perfect the first time, and if something does go wrong, we’ll fix it. We know what we are doing, and we’ll do it right. We guarantee you peace of mind and welcome you to drop by for a tour.”
Jeff & Tim Castleberry | Co-owners
Services Offered: Castleberry Shutters, Inc., builds and installs custom indoor, wood plantation shutters. The company also offers custom wood and faux-wood blinds, roller shades, and woven blinds. Castleberry Shutters custom makes and paints all indoor shutters to fit a customer’s windows in its own shop in Woodstock, Georgia. The company does not use imported wood.
Warranty: Castleberry Shutters offers a lifetime guarantee on all products and services.
Company History: Jerry Castleberry founded the company in 1954. Since then, he and his wife, Charlotte, along with their sons Jeff and Tim have grown the company to 26 employees. Jeff manages shop operations, while Tim manages sales and installation.
Services Not Offered: Castleberry Shutters does not provide exterior shutters or offer blind repair or draperies.
Minimum Job: The company requires a $500 minimum.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
Pick Reports recommends:
21st year as a Best Pick ■
17th year as a Best Pick
6th year as a Best Pick
Educational Content COMMON CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING SERVICES
• Carpet cleaning
• Upholstery cleaning
• Rug cleaning
• Carpet repair
• Stain removal
• Odor removal and control
• Fabric and fiber protection
• Drapery cleaning and freshening
• Hard-surface floor cleaning, buffing, and sealing
• Carpet cleaning frequency depends on several factors, including whether you have pets. In most cases, a professional carpet cleaning at least every nine to twelve months is a good idea.
• Between professional carpet cleanings, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, place mats at your home’s entrances, and regularly change your HVAC filter. Ask family members and visitors to remove their shoes indoors.
• Pet accidents are most effectively cleaned by the professionals. As a short-term fix, mix one part white vinegar with two parts water. Lightly spray the fresh stain with the mixture and use a white colorfast towel to blot the area. Continue the process until the smell and stain are reduced. Stains that dry or soak into the carpet padding and subfloor are harder to remove.
• Mention all spots and stains you want cleaned so the contractor can both prepare appropriately and provide you with an accurate estimate. Some stains, especially old stains, require pretreatment to fully remove them. A thorough walkthrough at the start of the job also helps avoid surprises regarding the cost at the end of the service.
• Prices that seem too good to be true usually are. Always read the fine print. Other deals will stretch the definition of carpet cleaning. A technician who rushes through the job may leave behind embedded dirt, stains, or excess moisture, which can lead to mold or faster re-soiling.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“I love it when long-term clients request ‘their’ technician by name. The vast majority of our customer base is repeat and referred clients who become part of our extended family. We’re grateful for these relationships, and we strive to make each cleaning experience a memorable one that exceeds everyone’s expectations.” Larry Hughes | President
Services Offered: Hughes Dry Professional Carpet Cleaning offers dry, organic carpet cleaning and specializes in carpet restretching, dying, and bleach spot repair. Other services include rug and upholstery cleaning, pet accident treatment, and hard-surface and wood floor maintenance. Phone estimates and free, in-home consultations are available. Courtesy followup calls are made after service.
Warranty: The company guarantees its work.
Company History: President and owner Larry Hughes founded the familyowned company in 1991.
Additional Information: Hughes Dry uses a Green Seal-approved, dryextraction carpet cleaning system that leaves carpets clean, allergen-free, and ready for immediate use. The system prevents reappearing spots.
Services Not Offered: Hughes Dry does not offer water or fire restoration services.
Minimum Job: Hughes Dry requires a $195 minimum.
“Since 1978, owners of Atlanta’s finest homes have relied on the expertise of Sunrise Clean Care’s trained staff to clean their carpets better than anyone else ever has. We know what’s important when it comes to your home and your family’s health. We Don’t Cut Corners, We Clean Them!” Bryan Cornett, Chris Dardaman & Paul Masters | Co-owners
Services Offered: Sunrise provides a low-impact, noninvasive, anti-allergy cleaning experience for residential and commercial customers. The company specializes in cleaning carpets, draperies, Oriental, wool, and silk rugs, and fine upholstery fabrics, including silk, brocade, and chenille. Sunrise also performs pet odor removal, Scotchgard application, tile and grout cleaning, and hardwood floor polishing. The company offers free inspections and phone consultations.
Warranty: Cleaning services are backed by the company’s exclusive Clients for Life triple satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: Sunrise started in 1978.
Additional Information: Sunrise uses a 12-step cleaning system with allergen-free, baby-safe, green cleaning agents that do not leave any residue behind, creating a healthy indoor living environment.
Minimum Job: Sunrise requires a $200 minimum job.
4.8 out of 5
Not Required
“Our success is due in large part to the long-term relationships we’ve developed with our clients. We’re often recommended by people in other industries, like interior designers and furniture retailers. They know we’re knowledgeable, pursue excellence, and treat our clients with respect and care.” John Yancey | Co-owner
Services Offered: ARS Restoration offers cleaning services for carpet and upholstery as well as Oriental, wool, and specialty rugs. The company also provides tile and grout cleaning and turn-key water damage mitigation and reconstruction services.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: ARS was founded in 1986.
Distinctions: Owner John Yancey is a licensed insurance claims adjuster and IICRC certified. ARS is an IICRC Certified Firm, a winner of a 2024 Super Service Award, and a winner of the Contractor Connection Golden Hammer Award.
Services Not Offered: ARS does not offer carpet stretching.
Minimum Job: All jobs require a $160 minimum.
Not
“We represent and operate via professionalism, quality control, honesty, integrity, and customer respect. We believe in educating and empowering our customers with valuable and usable carpet care and cleaning knowledge, for them to better understand, care for, and maintain their flooring investments.” William
Parsons | President
Services Offered: Carpet Dry-Tech, Inc., offers residential and commercial cleaning and fiber protection for carpets, Oriental rugs, area rugs, hardwood flooring, tiling, upholstery for homes, businesses, and vehicles, and carpet interiors for RVs and boats. The company specializes in pet stain, odor, and specialty stain removal. Carpet Dry-Tech also offers air duct cleaning and disinfecting, carpet repairs and stretching, carpet dyeing services such as bleach spot color repairs and full-room color changes, and free estimates.
Warranty: Carpet Dry-Tech offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee and a 1-year maintenance plan.
Company History: The company started in 2005.
Additional Information: Carpet Dry-Tech uses its own green and citrus cleaning solutions, which contain a custom blend of emulsifiers, degreasers, and carpet brighteners. Carpets are left dry and totally free from residue within approximately one hour of departing.
Verified
4.8 out of 5
Not Required
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ Artisan Custom Closets 678-515-1780 11th year as a Best Pick
• Organizational system design, fabrication, and installation
• Organizational systems for closets, kitchens, garages, laundry rooms, mudrooms, wardrobes, and home offices
• Custom closet design and installation
• Pantry and kitchen storage design and installation
• Slatwall system design and installation
• Media center design and installation
• Professional design consultations
• Before you interview prospective contractors and request estimates, think about the spaces you want to organize, the challenges you currently have with those areas, and your budget. And keep in mind that home organizing systems don’t stop at closets, kitchen, and garages. Professional designers can create custom organizational solutions for virtually every space in your house.
• An experienced organizing pro will come to your house to see your needs firsthand. This important step ensures that you get a truly customized organizational system. During the in-home visit, the consultant may be able to draft a mockup of how your new space will look. Companies that control the design, manufacturing, and installation
processes will likely offer more custom options than companies that install pre-made products.
• There are many products and systems available for closets and pantries. The size of the space and the types of items you need to store will determine which components you need.
• Kitchen cabinets and pantries can be retrofitted with pull-out shelving for improved accessibility, more storage space, and better organization. Ask your contractor about creative solutions for blind corner cabinets and lazy Susan cabinets to make these hard-to-reach spots more functional. Drawers can even be customized with dividers and inserts to make organizing utensils, tools, and gadgets much easier.
• Garage organization components are typically modular and include cabinets, workbenches, wall storage systems such as slatwall, overhead storage, and more. Your designer will work with you to determine which components will meet your needs best. Wall cabinets and slatwall systems can bring order to an otherwise cluttered space. Slatwall is made of PVC and is available in many colors. It helps you store items off the floor with a variety of accessories. Slatwall systems can be customized with bike racks, movable shelves, and large baskets.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
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“For the best storage solutions, homeowners turn to Artisan Custom Closets. We strive to create smart, stylish spaces that help you live life more efficiently. During your free consultation, your personal design consultant will help you make great choices resulting in beautiful spaces that complement your home and your budget.” Lisa Carlquist | President
Services Offered: Artisan Custom Closets provides design and installation services for various residential and commercial spaces, including closets, offices, pantries, garages, mudrooms, craft rooms, laundry rooms, and wardrobe cabinets.
Warranty: Artisan Custom Closets offers a nontransferable lifetime warranty on all materials and labor.
Company History: Artisan Custom Closets, a local company, was founded in 2008. Company president Lisa Carlquist has over 25 years of industry experience.
Distinctions: The company is a member of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association, the Association of Closet and Storage Professionals, and the Lake Oconee Home Builders Association. In 2017, Artisan Custom Closets was one of Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year.
Minimum Job: All jobs require a $1,000 minimum.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“I love the Best Pick Reports guidebook. I use it once or twice a year.”
Best Pick Reports recommends:
6th year as a Best Pick
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Concrete installation
• Driveways and aprons
• Sidewalks and walkways
• Patios
• Retaining walls
• Garage floors
• Stamped and decorative concrete
• Concrete is made up of three basic components: portland cement, aggregate (rock, sand, or gravel), and water. Cement acts as a binding agent when mixed with aggregate and water.
• Concrete grade is a measure of the concrete’s strength and is calculated in pounds per square inch (psi). Residential driveway concrete is usually 3,000 or 4,000 psi and at least four inches thick. Greater thickness equals extra strength, so if you have a heavy truck or more than a couple of cars, ask your contractor about going up to five or six inches of concrete at certain points on the driveway.
• The first step in replacing a concrete slab is to break up and remove the old slab. Then, the
contractor may put down extra gravel or fill dirt to create a stronger base. This reinforced base layer should be firmly compacted to prevent soil erosion over time. The contractor may add a steel reinforcement grid for strength. With temporary forms in place, the concrete is poured and smoothed. Then, the curing process starts.
• Control joints are shallow grooves cut into a concrete slab just after it’s poured. If the concrete is going to crack as it hardens and cures, it will usually happen at the control joints. Isolation joints, also called expansion joints, separate a concrete slab from a wall or other structure. These joints are filled with a synthetic material and then sealed. Isolation joints also help prevent cracking by making space for the concrete to expand during hot weather.
• Concrete that isn’t cured correctly can be as much as 50 percent weaker than properly cured concrete. There are different curing methods, all with the same result of preventing water evaporation as the concrete cures and hardens.
• Concrete can be artistically stamped or tinted to resemble almost any surface, from stone to wood grain.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
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“Sudlow Concrete strives every day to meet your expectations as well as ours. We are dedicated to continually meeting customers’ needs and exceeding their expectations. Our years of dedication and work in the concrete business have made us experts in driveway replacement and repair, walkways, decorative concrete, and much more!” Bill
Sudlow | Owner
Services Offered: Sudlow Concrete offers the installation, replacement, and repair of driveways, driveway aprons, walkways, sidewalks, concrete patios, poured concrete walls, and retaining walls for residential and commercial customers. The company also offers stamped concrete, decorative concrete, stonework, and sinkhole repair. Sudlow Concrete offers free on-site consultations as well as free estimates.
Warranty: Sudlow Concrete offers a five-year warranty on materials and workmanship.
Company History: The local company was established in 2000.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles.
4.9 out of 5
License(s) Not Required
General Liability Insurance
Workers’ Comp
Pick Guaranteed
“Our mission is to provide residential and commercial services on the basis of projects approved by the client. We are a team of professionals specializing in home improvement and home beautification. Our excellent customer service and technological innovation make us able to deliver high-quality results and competitive prices.” Julian Munoz | Owner
Services Offered: JMR Home Services is a residential home improvement company. The company’s services include installing driveways, retaining walls, and other exterior structures using concrete, stone, tile, and brick.
JMR Home Services also offers interior and exterior painting, cabinet refinishing, drywall painting, flooring, windows, siding, gutters, decking, and pressure washing. The company remodels bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, builds home additions, and offers commercial services and free estimates.
Warranty: JMR Home Services provides a one-year guarantee on labor and a five-year manufacturer guarantee on paint.
Company History: The local company was established in 2016 by Julian Munoz.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified
Workers’
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ AquaGuard
7th year as a Best Pick
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Concrete leveling and raising for driveways, sidewalks, walkways, patios, steps, and foundations
• Polyurethane foam lifting
• Slabjacking
• Mudjacking
• Foundation stabilization and repair
• Piering
• Waterproofing and drainage systems
• Signs of sunken concrete issues include uneven concrete steps or sidewalks; cracked, bumpy, and uneven driveways or patios; cracking and sinking sections of slabs; soil erosion under concrete slabs; and repeated cracking of concrete slabs.
• 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.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“AquaGuard provides peace of mind for its customers, its employees, and the communities it serves. It specializes in providing sensible and permanent solutions for waterproofing, foundation, and concrete support. AquaGuard is a Groundworks company, the nation’s leading foundation services company.” Tom DiGregorio | Founder
Services Offered: AquaGuard Foundation Solutions offers concrete lifting and foundation stabilization services. The company also offers foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, and gutter services.
Warranty: Nationally backed, transferable warranties are offered for most products. Ask for details.
Company History: AquaGuard was founded in 1995.
Distinctions: Founder Tom DiGregorio was named the Metro Atlanta Chamber’s 2015 Business Person of the Year, and AquaGuard was named a 2019 Top 25 Small Business of the Year by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. The company won a 2024 Super Service Award. AquaGuard is part of Groundworks Companies.
Employee Information: The local company employs a team of 250+ professionals.
4.9 out of 5
License(s) Not Required
“Atlanta Basement Systems proudly serves as the exclusive authorized partner for Contractor Nation (also owned by Larry Janesky) across the North Atlanta Metro and North Georgia markets. One of only 30 partners spanning a network of more than 350 of the world’s best contractors within the Contractor Nation framework.” Josh Sulfridge | General Manager
Services Offered: Atlanta Basement Systems offers concrete leveling and raising services using the PolyLevel polyurethane foam injection system. The company’s additional services include foundation repair, wall settlement and stabilization solutions, crawl space repair and encapsulation, basement waterproofing, sump pumps, mold control, and air quality solutions. Estimates are free.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime transferable warranty on complete piering and wall stabilization systems, full perimeter basement waterproofing systems, and crawl space drainage and encapsulation systems.
Company History: The locally owned-and-operated company was established in 2021.
Employee Information: Employees receive continuous, extensive training and development through local, regional, and national training initiatives.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Not Required
Verified
Verified
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22nd year as a
7th year as a Best Pick
7th year as a Best Pick
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3rd 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, pine, and fir.
• Pressure-treated pine is a popular, cost-effective deck material It’s a low-maintenance 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. Periodic cleaning and sealing will keep the deck in good shape 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. Deck cleaning will address preexisting stains. A sealed deck will resist staining better than raw, unsealed wood.
• A deck build usually 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.
“We know that building a deck, a fence, or a sunroom is an investment, and that is why we view our customers as partners. Our creativity, experience, and commitment to our customers are what make us different from everyone else.”
Dave Tibbetts | Founder
Services Offered: Atlanta Decking & Fence Company, Inc., specializes in designing and building custom decks, fences, porches, sunrooms, arbors, pergolas, gazebos, retaining walls, and bridges.
Warranty: The company provides a three-year craftsmanship warranty. Product warranties are maintained by the manufacturers.
Company History: Atlanta Decking & Fence is a family-owned business founded by husband-and-wife team Dave and Ginny Tibbetts. The company has been serving the metro-Atlanta area for more than 35 years.
Additional Information: Atlanta Decking & Fence offers flexible payment options. The company does not require a minimum scope for projects.
4.8 out of 5
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
“We are a small company that is deeply invested in earning your repeat business and referrals. We want you to be comfortable referring us to your boss’s boss. In order to maintain customer satisfaction as our top priority, there may be a waiting list in the busy season. We prioritize quality of work over volume of work.”
Crippen | Owner
Services Offered: Crippen Woodworks handles most deck-related jobs, from total floor and rail replacement to designing and building. The company specializes in low-maintenance, no-rot builds using premium composites and steel deck framing.
Warranty: The company offers a five-year guarantee on all workmanship.
Company History: Crippen Woodworks is family owned and operated and has been serving the metro-Atlanta area for 24 years.
Additional Information: Crippen Woodworks specializes in building decks with TimberTech, MoistureShield, and New Castle Steel’s full line of products. The company also uses and installs other premium deck products, including Brazilian hardwoods.
Minimum Job: All jobs require a $25,000 minimum.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s)
Verified
Verified
“Here at Outback Deck, we offer long-lasting and low-maintenance options for your outdoor living space. We believe if you have an outdoor space, you should want to spend time in it. Our commitment to providing the best customer experience and creating outstanding value in your new deck or porch is unmatched in the industry.” Bryan Miller | Owner
Services Offered: Outback Deck, Inc., installs composite decking, motorized pergolas, and custom porches by design for residential and commercial customers.
Warranty: The company offers a warranty on workmanship and its exclusive Signature Series Lifetime Warranty.
Company History: Outback Deck was founded in 2010. The owners of Outback Deck have over 60 years of combined experience in the industry.
Distinctions: Outback Deck is a NADRA, NARI, and CCN member. The company is also a TimberTech AZEK Platinum Contractor.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing. The company states that it currently has more than 30 employees who are trained and qualified.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
“Building a safe deck is the key philosophy of Builders America. Our decks are built to last. Attention to detail and over-building our decks and screened porches is priority one. Our decks will be standing long after the house comes down.” Stan
Garnet | CEO
Services Offered: Builders America specializes in outdoor living and builds pressure-treated, composite, and Brazilian hardwood decks, screened porches, and sunrooms. Builders America offers replacement, restoration, refinishing, and code-compliant repairs; can enclose new or existing porches with four-track flex vinyl windows, standard or insulated glass windows, and internal or external power shades; and installs retractable awnings and pergolas. Virtual quotes are free, and on-site visits are $79, which is credited toward future work.
Warranty: A one-year limited labor-and-material warranty and manufacturers’ warranties are offered.
Company History: The company started in 2013.
Distinctions: The company is a member of NARI, NADRA, ASHI, and HBAG and is a MoistureShield and TrexPro authorized contractor. Builders America has an ASHI and ICC code certified inspector on staff.
Minimum Job: A $2,500 job minimum is required.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) RBCO005853
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“Our goal is to help our customers by increasing the value of their home. For that reason, we always use top-of-the-line paint, roofing, windows, siding, and gutters. We operate by the Golden Rule, so I only offer people the kind of products that I would use in my own home. We’re in the business of doing quality work.”
Scott Nelson | Owner
Services Offered: Nelson Exteriors is a Trex and TimberTech composite deck installation and replacement specialist. The company also installs and replaces wood decks. Nelson Exteriors offers other home exterior services, including deck resurfacing, outdoor deck lighting, roofing, gutter replacement, HardiePlank siding, window and door installation, and painting.
Warranty: Nelson Exteriors provides written warranties on all products and labor.
Company History: The second-generation, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1977.
Distinctions: The company is a licensed contractor in Georgia, an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm, a Georgia Certified Lead Renovation Firm, and a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer roof or gutter repairs.
Minimum Job: A $1,000 minimum is required.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s)
RBCO007032
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed Every
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
• Drain clogs are typically caused by food, hair, foreign objects, and grease. To avoid clogs, use drain strainers to catch debris. Dispose of grease in a separate container, not down the drain, and don’t flush so-called flushable wipes.
• 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 do work, they are corrosive and can damage pipes 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 drain cleaning methods first. Many plumbers recommend the regular use of enzyme cleaners for preventative maintenance. If the problem persists, call a professional.
• 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, tree roots, old age, and problems in the municipal waste infrastructure. If you own a 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 newer homes are usually made of durable PVC.
Companies are required to hold a Master Plumber License issued by the Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board.
“Our goal is simple. We deliver value to our customers. Family owned and operated since 1988, we maintain impeccable quality and deliver what we promise, at the price we agreed upon. Value: it’s what we do.” James Cunningham | Owner
Services Offered: Superior Plumbing serves both residential and commercial customers. Superior’s plumbers are equipped to handle many services, such as malfunctioning drain and sewer lines, clogged pipes, and blocked sewer lines.
Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1988.
Distinctions: Superior Plumbing has been voted Best of Cobb’s Best Plumber since 2019. The company received the Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s 2012 Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year award.
Employee Information: Superior Plumbing conducts drug testing in accordance with Georgia’s Drug Free Workplace program. All plumbers have cleared state and federal criminal background checks.
Additional Information: The company provides up-front pricing and delivers professional work.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
License(s)
“Our mission is to carry on the tradition of integrity and quality service that started in 1949 when Estes was founded. We will always strive to employ the best people and provide the most efficient, effective service and the best warranties available to our customers, including a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on all services.” Tommy Estes | President
Services Offered: Estes provides drain and sewer services to residential customers, including clog removal, drain cleaning, and sewer line repair. The company also performs plumbing, duct cleaning, HVAC, electrical, and insulation work.
Warranty: Estes offers a variety of warranties to cover parts and labor and honors all manufacturers’ warranties, including a one-year warranty on all plumbing repairs.
Company History: Founded by N.B. Estes, the company has served Atlanta for 76 years. Estes has over 150 professionals on staff and offices located on the south and north sides of metro Atlanta.
Distinctions: Estes employs Master Plumbers and is a past winner of Contracting Business magazine’s Residential Contractor of the Year award.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s)
“At Rooter Pro Plumbing GA, we deliver honest, reliable plumbing with integrity and care. From emergencies to installs, we treat every home like our own, because the only rooter to trust is Rooter Pro Plumbing GA.” Megan Dammann | Owner
Services Offered: Rooter Pro Plumbing GA offers comprehensive drain and sewer cleaning solutions, including clog removal, sewer line repair and replacement, sump pump and sewage ejection pump services, and leak detection. The company also offers a full range of residential plumbing services, 24/7 emergency services, and financing options. Estimates are free.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime transferable warranty on full water line installation or replacement, a 10-year warranty on sewer line replacement, and 6-, 12-, and 15-year warranties on water heaters.
Company History: The local, family-owned business was established in 2021.
Distinctions: Rooter Pro is BBB Accredited and a sponsor of Fox 5 News.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles and wear uniforms.
Rating: 5.0 out
“Rooted in the heart of Atlanta, GA, Peach Plumbing & Drain has been the go-to choice for exceptional plumbing services. Our dedication to perfection ensures your plumbing experience is as delightful as biting into a sweet Georgia Peach. Proudly providing services throughout Greater Atlanta.” Robert Barnes | Owner
Services Offered: Peach Plumbing & Drain specializes in general plumbing maintenance, faucets, fixtures and toilets, drain cleaning, water line and pipe work, fixture installations, leak detection, sewer and camera inspections, sump pumps, and water filtration and water heater services. Same-day and emergency services are available. Estimates are free.
Warranty: Most repairs have a one-year warranty. Water heaters and sewer and water lines have a six-year warranty.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was established in 2017.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles.
Additional Information: Peach Plumbing & Drain does not charge trip or dispatch fees.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer septic pumping, grease trap pumping, or backflow testing.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MP210847
Verified General Liability Insurance
Pick Reports recommends:
3rd year as a Best Pick ■
3rd year as a Best Pick
2nd year as a Best Pick
• Duct cleaning
• Duct sanitization
• Duct leakage testing and repairs
• Duct sealing, insulation, and replacement
• Indoor air quality solutions
• Dryer vent cleaning and repair
• HVAC system component cleaning
• Filtration evaluation and upgrades
• If your heating and cooling bills rose significantly compared to the same time last year, your air ducts could be leaking. Duct sealing can fix this problem and also improve air circulation.
• Home remodeling projects can produce a lot of dust and debris, as do everyday activities, like opening the front door or turning on the air conditioning. Other factors, like pet hair, cigarette smoke, and water damage, can all cause rapid buildup of dust and dirt in the ducts.
• Duct cleaning involves cleaning your home’s ductwork as well as the entire HVAC system, including all ducts and registers, grills and diffusers, heat exchangers, coils, drain pans, motors, and motor and unit housings.
• If mold is found in your ductwork and HVAC system, hire a pro to clean the entire system and ductwork. Some duct cleaning contractors are licensed in mold removal and can take care of any mold they find. If yours isn’t or if the mold problem is extensive, you may need to hire a professional mold removal and remediation contractor.
• Beware of duct cleaners who only use ordinary household tools. Household vacuum cleaners and residential-use air compressor guns won’t get good results. In fact, these types of tools will likely just scatter dust and debris from the ducts all over your house. Check that the company’s methods meet industry standards. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) is a great resource for current industry information.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“Customer satisfaction is our number one priority, and we will go above and beyond to achieve it!”
Michael Green | Owner
Services Offered: Air of America provides air duct cleaning, air duct sanitization, air duct replacement, and air duct repair for residential and commercial customers. Other services include duct remediation; ductwork balancing; airflow optimization; duct redesign; UV light air purification systems; dryer vent cleaning, repair, and replacement; and kitchen vent hood installation. Financing is available.
Warranty: Air of America offers a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 2012.
Distinctions: Air of America is a NADCA member and has a NADCAcertified Air Systems Cleaning Specialist on staff.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
of
Not
“’Quality Matters.’” Vitaly Stotland | Founder
Services Offered: MMI Home Improvement Air Duct & Dryer Vent Cleaning Pro specializes in air duct cleaning and sanitizing as well as dryer vent cleaning and repair. Additional services include air quality and mold testing, mold remediation, and kitchen vent hood ductwork installation.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee. All installations come with a 12-month guarantee.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was established in 2012 by Vitaly Stotland.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms and shoe covers, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Minimum Job: Some services have an estimate fee. The company’s travel-time fee is $89.
5.0 out of 5 Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified
“Since 1968, R.S. Andrews has proudly served greater Atlanta and delivered smiles to countless customers. We have expert technicians to provide you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your heating, air conditioning, and plumbing needs. Customer service is our number one priority.” Dari Payrow |
President
Services Offered: R.S. Andrews cleans air ducts for residential customers. Additional services include air conditioning and heating repair, maintenance, and installation; indoor air quality solutions; plumbing services; drain and sewer services; insulation installation; and home energy audits.
Warranty: R.S. Andrews offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: The company was started in 1968.
Distinctions: R.S. Andrews received the Dave Lennox 5 Year Excellence Award in 2011 and is a Lennox Premier Dealer. The company employs NADCA and North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certified technicians. R.S. Andrews is a member of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association and the Plumbing & Mechanical Association of Georgia.
Employee Information: Employees are background checked and certified drug-free.
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“At LServices, we believe that exceptional service comes from knowledgeable and friendly experts who truly care. As a small, locally owned business, we take pride in handpicking our team to ensure they are among the best in the industry. Your satisfaction is our mission, and we’re here to make your experience the best it can be.” Owner
Services Offered: LServices offers air duct, dryer vent, and chimney cleaning services. Other services include duct repair and air quality solutions, such as air purifiers and humidity control systems. Estimates are free. Military/veteran and senior discounts are available.
Warranty: LServices honors manufacturers’ parts warranties and offers a 90-day labor warranty.
Company History: The family- and veteran-owned company was established in 2019.
Distinctions: LServices is certified by NADCA and has a NADCA-certified ASCS on staff. The company is a 2022 and 2024 Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave and a winner of the 2022, 2023, and 2024 Best of Georgia Regional Award for Duct Cleaning Services.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms, and are background checked.
Services Not Offered: LServices does not clean kitchen vent hoods.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Workers’ Comp Exempt
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28th year as a Best Pick
13th
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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. 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. Issues like improper grounding or a totally full main panel might not impact your daily life, but they are safety hazards.
• Test your smoke detectors monthly, replace the batteries at least annually, and replace smoke detector units every ten years at minimum. 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. An electrician can install a whole-house surge protector 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.
“Customer service is our number one goal. We’ve been in the electrical trade for 53 years, and we realize that customers have choices. We strive to build strong relationships through attention to detail and honest, professional service. We constantly monitor customer satisfaction and use the feedback to improve the way we do business.” Lloyd
Services Offered: Belco Electric is a full-service, electrical-only company and specializes in residential electrical troubleshooting, repair, safety inspections, and installations. The company offers time and material jobs as well as quoted projects. Belco offers 24/7 emergency service as well as maintenance programs.
Warranty: The company offers several warranties, including an extended labor and materials warranty on all electrical work for participants in its Priority One Maintenance Program.
Company History: A local, family-owned business, Belco Electric was founded 53 years ago by Lloyd Bird. The company focuses exclusively on the electrical trade and does not offer any other trade services.
Employee Information: Field employees wear uniforms and arrive in clean, Belco-identified vehicles. Belco background checks all employees and requires that project managers hold Master Electrician licenses.
4.9 out of 5
Bird | President
“TE is an award-winning company that has served the Atlanta area for over 20 years. We value your time, so we offer same-day service, three-hour arrival windows, and a call ahead before we arrive. You can also count on written estimates and flat-rate pricing. Our technicians drive fully stocked trucks, so they are ready for any task.” Josh Brooker | Owner
Services Offered: TE offers electrical panel changes and service upgrades, home electrical inspections, electrical remodeling, troubleshooting and repair, and light fixture replacement. The company installs indoor and outdoor lighting, standby generators, landscape lighting, ceiling fans, flatscreen TVs, GFCI outlets, surge protectors, security cameras, electric car chargers, and phone and data jacks. TE also installs, repairs, and services all brands of heating and cooling equipment.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime workmanship warranty on all work and an extended warranty on all parts.
Company History: TE was established in 2003.
Employee Information: TE’s certification program requires a written test, weekly training, a background check, drug tests, and five years of electrical experience.
Services Not Offered: TE does not service security or solar energy systems, appliances, or high-rise buildings.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) EN214217
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“Our mission is to carry on the tradition of integrity and quality service that started in 1949 when Estes was founded. We will always strive to employ the best people and provide the most efficient, effective service and the best warranties available to our customers, including a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on all services.” Tommy Estes | President
Services Offered: Estes provides residential customers with many kinds of electrical services, including panel change-outs, lighting and ceiling fan installation, wiring and outlet repair and installation, and generator maintenance and installation. The company also performs duct cleaning, HVAC, plumbing, and insulation work.
Warranty: Estes offers a variety of parts and labor warranties and honors all manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: Founded by N.B. Estes, the company has served Atlanta for 76 years. Estes has over 150 professionals on staff and offices located on the south and north sides of metro Atlanta.
Distinctions: The company is a past winner of Contracting Business magazine’s Residential Contractor of the Year award and an Eaton Certified Electrical Contractor.
“Mister Sparky is ‘America’s On-Time Electrician.’ When you call us, ‘We’re On Time, You’ll See, Or The Repair Is Free!’ The local, licensed professionals at Mister Sparky know how important it is to keep your home’s electrical system up to date. Trust us to leave your home safer than we found it.” Rick Spooner | General Manager
Services Offered: Mister Sparky provides repair, replacement, installation, and maintenance for ceiling fans, light fixtures, circuits and wiring, generators, electrical panels, smoke detectors, and whole-home surge protectors. The company also offers electrical code compliance inspections, protection plans, and 24/7 emergency service.
Warranty: Mister Sparky offers an On Time Guarantee and a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: Mister Sparky has served residential and commercial customers in Atlanta since 1996 as the original, flagship location.
Employee Information: The company states that technicians are trained, undergo drug testing and background checks, wear branded uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and comply with the UWIN Code of Ethics.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified
“Licensed and insured, Mr. Electric of Atlanta provides residential and commercial emergency and other electrical services. With decades of experience serving Atlanta customers, Mr. Electric is a name you can trust for all your electrical needs. Professional, informative, on time, every time!” Sharin Kanji | Owner
Services Offered: Mr. Electric of Atlanta provides repair and installation electrical services, including but not limited to indoor and outdoor lighting, landscape lighting, ceiling fans, outlets, switches, panels, generators, electric car charging stations, surge protection, thermal imaging, safety inspections, appliance circuit installation, and more. Mr. Electric offers recommendations and upfront pricing and asks for the customer’s approval before the work begins.
Warranty: The company offers an on-time guarantee, which states if the company is late, the dispatch fee will be waived.
Company History: Mr. Electric of Atlanta started in 2005.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, drive marked vehicles, and go through extensive background checks.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) EN211617
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
“Keep Smiling Plumbing and Electric strives to provide 5-Star service every time, for every call. We have been servicing the East Atlanta area since 1985 and offer same-day service calls, a profile and picture of our technician prior to arrival, technicians with fully stocked trucks, and detailed service estimates.” Melvin Music | President & CEO
Services Offered: Keep Smiling Plumbing and Electric’s range of services includes EV charger installations, panel inspections, whole-house device replacements, ceiling fan installations, and GFI replacements. Financing options are available.
Warranty: Keep Smiling Plumbing and Electric provides the industry’s top warranties.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 1985.
Distinctions: The company is a multi-year Best of Gwinnett award winner in the plumbing category from Gwinnett Magazine and is a member of the PHCC.
Employee Information: Uniformed employees wear shoe covers and drive marked vehicles.
Services Not Offered: Solar power services are not offered.
Minimum Job: A $39 dispatch fee will be applied to the work performed.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified
Verified
Verified
24th year as a Best Pick ■
8th year as a Best Pick
• Fence design
• Fence installation
• Fence repair
• Aluminum, chain-link, vinyl, wood, and decorative metal fences
• Fence staining and sealing
• Gate and access control installation
• A fence company should first visit your property and then give you a written proposal. Avoid companies that give estimates by phone without seeing your property first, since those types of estimates can be inaccurate. If your yard is hilly, for instance, or will need clearing, 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 for insight into their 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
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content ■
fence companies will do this for you, but 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.
• If you want a wrought iron fence but are concerned about the cost and maintenance, look into easy-care, cost-effective 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.
“We know that building a deck, a fence, or a sunroom is an investment, and that is why we view our customers as partners. Our creativity, experience, and commitment to our customers are what make us different from everyone else.”
Dave Tibbetts | Founder
Services Offered: Atlanta Decking & Fence Company, Inc., specializes in designing and building custom decks, fences, porches, sunrooms, arbors, pergolas, gazebos, retaining walls, and bridges.
Warranty: The company provides a three-year craftsmanship warranty. Product warranties are maintained by the manufacturers.
Company History: Atlanta Decking & Fence is a family-owned business founded by husband-and-wife team Dave and Ginny Tibbetts. The company has been serving the metro-Atlanta area for more than 35 years.
Additional Information: Atlanta Decking & Fence offers flexible payment options. The company does not require a minimum scope for projects.
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“Our customers demand the best, and we make sure they receive that. Our craftsmen have decades of experience in fencing. So, if it’s a fence you need, we are the company to call. Our crews come prepared with the experience and talent to get your job done right and on time, and that’s what makes us the best.”
Services Offered: Academy Fence Brokers installs residential and commercial fencing using materials such as aluminum, chain-link, PVC, steel, and wood.
Warranty: Academy Fence Brokers guarantees 100 percent customer satisfaction.
Company History: The local company was founded in 2015. Owner Fred Smith has over 30 years of industry experience.
Employee Information: All employees undergo background checks and drug testing.
Additional Information: Academy Fence Brokers offers the Full Tilt Gate Kit, a patented gate bracket that allows gates to be installed on hills.
Fred Smith | Owner
Verified
Verified
4.9 out of 5
Not Required
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• 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
• 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.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content ■
• 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. A rating of two to four suggests average durability. Carpet with a rating below two is best for areas with light foot traffic.
“We care about our customers. At Emperial Hardwood Floors, we have a great deal of pride in the work that we do. Our goal is to make every customer happy so that they refer us to their friends. That’s how we built the business.”
Ricky Core | Owner
Services Offered: Emperial Hardwood Floors specializes in refinishing hardwood floors and installing prefinished and site-finished flooring, luxury vinyl plank flooring, step treads, and wrought iron balusters.
Warranty: Emperial provides a one-year warranty on workmanship.
Company History: Emperial is a family business that has been owned and operated in the North Atlanta area by the husband-and-wife team of Ricky and Lori Core since 1979.
Additional Information: According to the company, Emperial uses a 90 percent dust-free system. The company hangs plastic in room openings, over cabinets, and in other open areas. Emperial offers Bona Traffic HD water-based urethane and Craftsman’s Choice oil-based polyurethane.
Services Not Offered: The company does not perform repair-only jobs.
“Northside Floors has been flooring greater Atlanta’s fine homes since 1982. With our highest-quality products and our team of highly skilled professional flooring specialists, we will make the dreams you have for your home a reality.”
Bob Haddon | Founder & Owner
Services Offered: Northside Floors offers installation, dustless sanding, and refinishing services for hardwood floors. The company also sells and installs carpet, engineered wood flooring, luxury vinyl tile, and tile and offers staircase makeovers for residential and commercial customers.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime warranty on installations. Products are covered by manufacturer warranties.
Company History: Northside Floors is a local, family-owned-and-operated business that has been under the same ownership since its founding in 1982.
Distinctions: The company is a member of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo drug testing.
Services Not Offered: Northside Floors does not offer repair-only services.
4.5 out of 5
Not Required Verified
“Rest assured that from the moment you walk into our showroom until the moment our installers leave your home, every aspect of the process is complete and just as you would expect it to be. Our knowledgeable sales staff will explain all the options, and our professional installers are trained to handle all of your belongings.”
Services Offered: Select Floors installs carpet, hardwood, vinyl, luxury vinyl plank, and laminate flooring for both residential and commercial customers. The company also offers staircase remodeling, hardwood floor refinishing, and custom area rugs. Select Floors offers free in-home estimates.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: Established in 2004, Select Floors is a local company.
Additional Information: The company offers Shaw, Mohawk, Aladdin, Mannington, Karastan, Masland, Stanton, Anderson Tuftex, Daltile, and more.
“As a locally owned-and-operated flooring dealer, we can guarantee a truly unique level of personalized service that is unmatched by the big-box home improvement centers and the high-pressure national chains. Our purpose is to make flooring easy for our customers, who are our number one priority.” Jeff Fox | Owner
Services Offered: Concept Flooring Inc. specializes in carpet, laminate, LVP, and hardwood flooring installation. Flooring project managers provide free consultations, curate custom flooring sample packages, and deliver sample packages to the customer’s home. Additionally, the company offers staircase makeover services and materials, including hardwood treads, runners, and iron balusters and refinishes handrails, newel posts, and floors.
Warranty: The company honors manufacturer warranties on all materials and provides warranties on labor and installation.
Company History: Jeff Fox and Dave Jones started the local company in 2002.
Distinctions: Concept Flooring is a Shaw Flooring Network Retailer.
Services Not Offered: The company does not provide ceramic or porcelain tile materials or installation.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Trade
Not Required
Verified
Verified
“I started in the flooring industry 30+ years ago and opened Authentic Hardwood Flooring 26 years ago. My goal has always been to build a great place where excellent people want to work. I’m proud to say today we have a workplace where our amazing staff and trained artisans provide beautiful floors for our customers.” Michael Keroack | Founder/Owner
Services Offered: Authentic Hardwood Flooring offers full-service hardwood flooring installation, sanding, finishing, and refinishing. The company also offers LVP and prefinished engineered hardwood and provides demo services as well as flooring and subflooring repairs. Estimates are free.
Warranty: Authentic Hardwood Flooring offers a ten-year warranty on craftsmanship and installation and honors manufacturers’ warranties on LVP and prefinished engineered products.
Company History: The local company was established in 1999.
Distinctions: Authentic Hardwood Flooring is a member of NARI and NWFA. The company is a winner of NARI’s 2023 Contractor of the Year Award.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer tile or carpet and does not resurface concrete.
Minimum Job: A $1,500 job minimum is required.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
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.
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3rd year as a Best Pick
■ '58 Foundations & Waterproofing
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Foundation repair
• Pier systems
• Wall anchor systems
• Crawl space repair and encapsulation
• Basement waterproofing
• Moisture control service
• Foundation drainage systems
• Concrete lifting and leveling
• Signs of foundation damage include vertical and horizontal cracks in foundation walls, drywall cracks near doors and windows, unlevel floors, windows or doors sticking, cracks in exterior brick veneer, settled or uneven basement floors, and cracks in garage slabs.
• The following conditions can cause foundations to settle, crack, and bow: extremely dry weather, which causes the soil to shrink and contract; and wet weather, which causes the soil to expand and create pressure against the foundation walls. Layers of soil can also settle over the years and cause foundation cracks.
• 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 inspections should include a digital elevation survey and a discussion of potential causes of the problem. 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, grading, and moisture maintenance with your contractor. Without ongoing maintenance, foundation issues can return.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“AquaGuard provides peace of mind for its customers, its employees, and the communities it serves. It specializes in providing sensible and permanent solutions for waterproofing, foundation, and concrete support. AquaGuard is a Groundworks company, the nation’s leading foundation services company.” Tom DiGregorio | Founder
Services Offered: AquaGuard specializes in resolving foundation repair issues, such as cracked, bowed, or buckling walls; sagging floors; soil stabilization; and sinking or cracked concrete. AquaGuard also performs waterproofing, crawl space repair, and gutter installation.
Warranty: Nationally backed, transferable warranties are offered for most products. Ask for details.
Company History: AquaGuard was founded in 1995.
Distinctions: Founder Tom DiGregorio was named the Metro Atlanta Chamber’s 2015 Business Person of the Year, and AquaGuard was named a 2019 Top 25 Small Business of the Year by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. The company won a 2024 Super Service Award. AquaGuard is part of Groundworks Companies.
Employee Information: The local company employs a team of 250+ professionals.
Rating: 4.9
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“American Crawlspace Solutions takes a ‘needs-based’ approach toward solving your crawlspace, basement, foundation, or mold problem. We won’t try to oversell you. You have a choice when it comes to who you allow into your home, and we sincerely appreciate our customers! We strive for fast, friendly service at an affordable price.” Jeremy Ross | Owner
Services Offered: American Crawlspace Solutions offers residential and commercial foundation repair, sagging floor repair, concrete lifting and stabilization, basement and crawlspace waterproofing and encapsulation, and crawlspace mold removal. Financing options are available.
Warranty: Most services include a life-of-the-structure warranty.
Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 2011 by college friends John Harman and Jeremy Ross.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms, and undergo drug testing.
Additional Information: The company uses products from AprilAire, Ashland Pump, and Prime Resins.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer foundation installation, concrete removal/replacement, or mold removal in living spaces.
Verified
4.8 out of 5
Not Required
“Atlanta Basement Systems proudly serves as the exclusive authorized partner for Contractor Nation (also owned by Larry Janesky) across the North Atlanta Metro and North Georgia markets. One of only 30 partners spanning a network of more than 350 of the world’s best contractors within the Contractor Nation framework.” Josh Sulfridge | General Manager
Services Offered: Atlanta Basement Systems offers foundation repair services, wall settlement piering solutions, wall stabilization solutions, and crawl space floor joist repair and leveling. The company also offers basement waterproofing systems, humidity and mold control, sump pump and discharge line services, air purification and dehumidification, and crawl space drainage and encapsulation.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime transferable warranty on complete piering and wall stabilization systems, full perimeter basement waterproofing systems, and crawl space drainage and encapsulation systems.
Company History: The locally owned-and-operated company was established in 2021.
Employee Information: Employees receive continuous, extensive training and development through local, regional, and national training initiatives.
4.6 out of 5
License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp Best Pick Guaranteed
“Since 1958, ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing has been providing five-star customer experiences in basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, foundation repair, and mold removal. Our money-back guarantee and life-of-thestructure warranty, unique in the industry, offer the ultimate protection to homeowners.” Todd Prosan | President
Services Offered: ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing specializes in foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, and mold removal. The company also provides free estimates.
Warranty: A life-of-the-structure warranty is offered in addition to guaranteed results. Warranty is subject to terms and conditions.
Company History: The local and regional, family-owned company was founded in 1958.
Distinctions: ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing was ranked on the 2022 Inc. 5000 list of Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer poured concrete foundations; crawl space cleanouts; or crawl space-to-basement conversions.
4.9 out of 5 Trade
Not Required
Verified
Verified
5th year as a Best Pick
Educational Content
• Garage door installation, replacement, and repair
• Routine garage door maintenance
• Garage door opener installation, repair, replacement, and programming
• Repair and replacement of springs, rollers, and cables
• New garage door sales and installation
• If your garage door opener stops working, first make sure it’s plugged into a working outlet. If the outlet doesn’t have power, check the main panel. Try resetting any tripped breakers before calling a professional for help.
• 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. 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.
• 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 and resistance to fading from sunlight.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“We are a true family business, and we take care of our customers like they are family. We pride ourselves on our integrity, dealing honestly and fairly with our employees as well as our customers. Our goal is to ethically deliver the service and quality our customers want so they’ll tell their friends and family about us.” Dan
Services Offered: All Four Seasons Garage & Entry Doors is a garage door installation and repair company that sells, services, and installs residential garage doors and openers. The company repairs all types and brands of garage doors and openers and encloses carports. All Four Seasons also installs wood, fiberglass, steel, and wrought iron entry doors and provides 24/7 emergency service.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee, a lifetime warranty on new garage door exteriors, a five-year warranty on new garage door hardware, and a one-year labor warranty on new garage doors. Some doors come with lifetime warranties on all door hardware.
Company History: Dan Watkins founded the business in 1999 and is a hands-on owner.
Employee Information: Technicians are paid a flat rate and do not work on commission.
Watkins | Founder & Owner
“Atlanta Entry Systems is a family-owned business that has been providing great service to our customers for years. With 24/7 availability, we are always here to serve our customers’ needs. We are honest, ethical, and reliable, and we push hard every day to ensure we’re keeping our promises.” Taylor
Hornsby
Services Offered: Atlanta Entry Systems installs, services, and repairs garage doors, openers, and entry gates for residential and commercial customers. The company offers traditional, carriage, overlay, and wood garage doors as well as custom garage door options.
Warranty: Atlanta Entry Systems offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 2016.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Additional Information: Atlanta Entry Systems offers products by Thermacore, Clopay, Southeast Door Technologies, Southern Ideal Door, Amarr, and LiftMaster.
| Operations Manager
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Trade
Not Required
Verified
Verified
“At Platinum Overhead Door, we offer white glove service at an affordable price. Our technicians have the professionalism and experience to address all your garage door needs. We’re a one-of-a-kind garage door company: we put our customers first. We’ll even sweep your garage for you when we finish the job.”
Services Offered: Platinum Overhead Door repairs and installs garage doors and openers for residential customers. The company replaces and repairs springs and motors. Platinum Overhead Door also provides offtrack repairs and weather seal replacement.
Warranty: The company offers an 18-month warranty on new motors, a 3-year warranty on spring replacements, a 2-year labor warranty on new garage doors, a 5-year warranty on new garage door hardware, and a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: Platinum Overhead Door was founded in 2016 by Michael Amodio.
Additional Information: Platinum Overhead Door carries products from all garage door manufacturers, including Clopay, C.H.I., Amarr, doorLink, Haas, and more, as well as LiftMaster, Genie, and Linear garage door openers. The company offers 24/7 response and complimentary door quotes.
Michael Amodio | Owner & Founder
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“The Best Pick Reports guidebook comes in handy. I am likely to recommend it.”
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ Granite Garage Floors Atlanta 678-820-4867 1st year as a Best Pick
• Industrial-grade polymer coatings (epoxy, polyurea, and polyaspartic) for concrete floors in garages, basements, patios, and more
• Concrete floor preparation and crack repair
• Industrial-grade epoxy/polyurea base coating, decorative flakes, and polyaspartic clear coat application
• Coated floor cleaning
• Bare concrete can be difficult to keep clean, especially in high-traffic areas where stains are common, like a garage or basement. Concrete is porous and prone to cracks and pitting over time unless the surface is protected.
• A properly coated garage floor is not only easier to clean but also helps resist chemicals like oil, salt, and gasoline that would otherwise seep into untreated concrete. This makes maintenance simpler and helps preserve your garage’s appearance over time.
• Professional garage floor coating companies use industrial-grade materials and installation techniques to ensure a long-lasting solution. DIY floor coating kits do not have the longevity of the products used by professionals and are prone to chipping and peeling after a short period of time.
• The key to a durable, attractive floor coating is preparing the surface. A coating applied to a surface that isn’t even, clean, or fully dry will not last long before it starts to bubble and peel from changing temperatures and the heat and friction of vehicle tires. The professionals take the time to prep and repair the floor to ensure a smooth base for the coating system.
• Professional-grade coating systems come with customizable color and texture options, including decorative flakes and varying finishes. The installers can add elements to the coating to make it resemble granite, stone, and other surfaces, boosting both the visual appeal of your space and your home’s value. The textured surface also makes the floor slip resistant.
• Most high-quality coatings cure within a day or two, meaning minimal disruption to your routine. However, some installations may require extra drying time depending on temperature, humidity, and the specific products used.
• Industrial-grade epoxy is one of the most commonly used materials due to its strength and adhesion properties as a primer. Newer options like polyaspartic top coatings offer greater UV stability, faster curing times, and superior resistance to abrasions and hot tire pickup.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“Locally owned and operated since 2010, Granite Garage Floors has earned the trust of Atlanta-area homeowners and businesses with high-quality concrete coating systems. Built on a foundation of quality, value, and decades of experience, our team delivers expert, start-to-finish service and superior results with every floor.” Alan Mishkoff
| Founder & Owner
Services Offered: Granite Garage Floors specializes in high-performance concrete coatings for residential and commercial spaces. Top-tier materials are used, including industrial-grade epoxy, polyaspartic, and polyurea to deliver durable, long-lasting finishes that look like granite or quartz countertops. Coatings are chemical-resistant, easy to clean, and designed to withstand the heat from hot tires without peeling or lifting. Every project is managed by the company’s full-time team from start to finish.
Warranty: The company offers a Lifetime Satisfaction Warranty that is guaranteed against hot tire pick-up.
Company History: The company was founded by Alan Mishkoff in 2010 and is still locally owned and operated.
Distinctions: The company has 1,500+ five-star reviews and is an Atlanta Home Builders Association member.
Employee Information: The team has an average tenure of 8 years and wears company-branded shirts, drives branded vehicles, and undergoes background checks.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ Gutter Perfection, Inc. 678-960-2307 21st year as a Best Pick
■ KTM Roofing Company, Inc. 678-792-5647 13th year as a Best Pick
■ Master Tech GA, Inc. 678-321-2965 13th year as a Best Pick
■ Swainco Gutters, Inc. 678-572-1307 12th year as a Best Pick
■ AquaGuard Foundation Solutions 678-633-3874 6th year as a Best Pick
■ Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning 678-846-2875 3rd year as a Best Pick
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, and a host of other problems.
• To carry water away efficiently, gutters need to be installed with a slope toward the downspouts.
The fasteners should be close together, and 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 by three inches or three inches by four inches in size. Larger downspouts drain well and resist clogs.
• 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.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“We know our success rests with you, and we value our relationships far more than any one sale. As a full-service gutter company, we offer not only a lifetime, clog-free solution but also regular gutters without any high-pressure sales pitch. We stand by our quality products and offer them at a great price.” Jeff Hayes & David Wade | Co-owners
Services Offered: Gutter Perfection installs seamless aluminum and copper gutters, available in five- or six-inch and half-round. The company also installs Gutter Umbrella, a heavy-duty solid gutter cover system guaranteed by the company to never clog, or Gutter Perfection will clean it for free. All products are available in more than 20 colors and in copper.
Warranty: Gutter Umbrella comes with a lifetime transferable clog-free warranty.
Company History: Gutter Perfection started in 1997. The company does not use subcontractors.
Additional Information: The company’s gutters and Gutter Umbrella are made of 0.027 gauge aluminum and are installed with unique, patented hidden hangers inside the gutter, designed not to alter the roof. Gutter Umbrella can be added to existing gutters.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer gutter cleaning, gutter repairs, or partial gutter installs.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Not Required
“KTM Roofing Company has been raising the standard since 1984. This comes from working for others before starting my own company and believing that life is better for everyone if the work is a masterful installation by a professional staff backed by a strong company.” Chris Russell | President
Services Offered: KTM Roofing Company, Inc., installs seamless gutters and Valor gutter guards and performs all types of roofing work.
Warranty: The company offers its own No Clog Guarantee on Valor gutter protection products.
Company History: KTM opened in Atlanta in 1984.
Distinctions: KTM is a CertainTeed Select ShingleMaster, GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor, and Carlisle Authorized Applicator. KTM received the Ludowici National Project of the Year Award for roofing the East Lake Golf Club’s historic clubhouse.
Employee Information: KTM’s sales consultants are salaried and drive company vehicles.
4.8 out of 5
License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified
“We are constantly striving to be the best in Georgia. We put our name and our reputation behind every installation we do. We work diligently to make sure the job is done right the first time. We are so sure of what we do, we guarantee our labor and products. An installation and product warranty is issued on every job.” Orvel
Bailey | Owner
Services Offered: Master Tech GA, Inc., offers residential and commercial gutter installation with five-, six-, and seven-inch gutters in aluminum or copper. The company also installs MasterGuard leaf-free gutter covers and gutter screens.
Warranty: All materials come with a twenty-year warranty, and labor is covered by a two-year warranty. The MasterGuard leaf-free cover system comes with a transferable lifetime, no-clog warranty.
Company History: Owner Orvel Bailey has been in the gutter business for over 25 years.
Employee Information: According to Master Tech, all of the company’s technicians have a minimum of five years of experience in the gutter industry. Master Tech’s sales manager, Garry Leigh, has over 30 years of experience.
of
“Swainco Gutters, Inc., is a family-owned-and-operated business at your service. We take great pride in all the work we do, and the products we sell and install are of the highest quality. We provide professional and dependable service for each and every customer. Here at Swainco, we look forward to doing business with you.” Joseph Swain | Owner
Services Offered: Swainco Gutters, Inc., offers full gutter installation, replacement, and repair services. The company also offers “roll lock” gutter screens and NatureLock gutter guards.
Warranty: The company provides a two-year workmanship warranty on all services, excluding repairs, as well as a lifetime, clog-free warranty on its NatureLock gutter guards.
Company History: Established in 2003, Swainco is a family-owned-andoperated business.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and undergo drug testing. The company does not hire subcontractors.
Additional Information: Swainco manufactures the NatureLock gutter cover system.
Services Not Offered: Swainco does not perform gutter cleaning services.
Minimum Job: A $495 minimum is required.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified
“AquaGuard provides peace of mind for its customers, its employees, and the communities it serves. It specializes in providing sensible and permanent solutions for waterproofing, foundation, and concrete support. AquaGuard is a Groundworks company, the nation’s leading foundation services company.” Tom DiGregorio | Founder
Services Offered: AquaGuard installs gutters, gutter covers, downspouts, and leaf screens. The company also provides basement waterproofing, crawl space repair and encapsulation, foundation repair and stabilization, and concrete lifting.
Warranty: Nationally backed, transferable warranties are offered for most products. Ask for details.
Company History: AquaGuard was founded in 1995.
Distinctions: Founder Tom DiGregorio was named the Metro Atlanta Chamber’s 2015 Business Person of the Year, and AquaGuard was named a 2019 Top 25 Small Business of the Year by the Cobb Chamber. The company won a 2024 Super Service Award. AquaGuard is part of Groundworks Companies.
Employee Information: The local company employs a team of 250+ professionals.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“For 60 years, Ned Stevens has been cleaning, installing, and repairing rain gutters for our great customers. We are open 7 days a week, and we work hard to ensure quality and safety while always making sure the customer is happy.”
Ned Stevens | Founder
Services Offered: Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning provides gutter cleaning, new gutter installation, and gutter repair as well as complete power washing services, window cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, underground drain snaking, chimney cap installation, and full mosquito and tick control services. The company offers services 7 days a week and free estimates.
Warranty: All work is 100 percent guaranteed.
Company History: Ned Stevens started the company in 1965.
Employee Information: All employees receive DMV background checks, undergo extensive training in both a classroom and the field, and are subject to daily random quality-control inspections. All workers are Ned Stevens employees and are covered by full workers’ compensation and liability insurance.
Minimum Job: Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning requires a $110 job minimum.
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Trade
Verified
Verified
Not Required
6th year as a Best Pick ■
4th year as a Best Pick ■ Ace Gutter Cleaning
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Gutter cleaning
• Downspout cleaning
• Gutter repairs
• Gutter installation
• Roof cleaning
• Pressure washing
Educational Content
• Gutters and downspouts carry water away from your house, protecting the soil, foundation, roof, and siding. Don’t wait until your gutters overflow to have them cleaned. Consistent spillover from clogged gutters can erode the soil around the foundation and cause waterproofing problems.
• 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.
• Gutter cleaning should be done at least twice a year, usually in the late spring and late fall. If you have lots of trees around your house, you may need to have your gutters cleaned quarterly.
• 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. Rainwater flows around and underneath the cover, and leaves and other debris fall to the ground. Gutter covers are sometimes less effective at very steep sections of the roof, but diverters can help with this. Adding a gutter cover system to your home doesn’t mean that your gutters are now completely maintenance-free. They should still be inspected periodically.
• Gutter cleaning dangerous can be dangerous, but the pros are trained and have the right equipment. 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 and liability insurance.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“We make sure every service is done with the utmost professionalism by a fully trained roofing staff. We pride ourselves on being completely legal, honest, and on-the-level. We consider ourselves advocates of fairness and responsibility. With over 160,000 services completed, you can trust our professional, award-winning service.” Brad Ladner | Owner
Services Offered: Atlanta’s Best Gutter Cleaners provides gutter cleaning, gutter installation and repair, screens and covers, pressure washing, and roof installation and repair.
Warranty: The company offers a 45-day guarantee on gutter cleaning, a 3-year guarantee on repairs, and a 5-year guarantee on its no-clog covers.
Company History: Atlanta’s Best Gutter Cleaners was founded by Brad and Mindy Ladner in 2006. The husband-and-wife team still plays an active role in managing and overseeing the company’s daily operations.
Additional Information: The company’s trained roofers clean the gutter from the roof instead of on ladders, providing added safety for the home and the employees.
Minimum Job: Atlanta’s Best Gutter Cleaners has a $90 minimum service charge.
“With years of experience, combined with client input, we can provide homeowners the quality they deserve. Gutters Plus is a service provider that is honest, dependable, and is going to be with you before, during, and after the work is done. We will deliver a high-quality finished product each and every time, guaranteed.” Charlie Dallavalle
Services Offered: Gutters Plus offers residential gutter and downspout cleaning, repairs, and new gutter installation. The company installs seamless, K-style, half-round, and copper gutters, and also provides leaf protection systems, water management solutions, pressure washing, and roof cleaning services.
Warranty: Gutters Plus offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: Gutters Plus is a family-owned-and-operated company founded in 2002 by Charles Dallavalle and his son Charlie Dallavalle Jr. Additionally, Kelli Heineman, Donna Brown, and Roderick Kent are an integral part in managing and overseeing the company’s daily operations and customer service.
Additional Information: Gutters Plus is a Plus Services company. In addition to gutters, Plus Services specializes in siding, roofing, windows, doors, decks, and porticos.
out of 5
Not
Jr. | President
“For 60 years, Ned Stevens has been cleaning, installing, and repairing rain gutters for our great customers. We are open 7 days a week, and we work hard to ensure quality and safety while always making sure the customer is happy.”
Ned Stevens | Founder
Services Offered: Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning provides gutter cleaning, new gutter installation, and gutter repair as well as complete power washing services, window cleaning, dryer vent cleaning, underground drain snaking, chimney cap installation, and full mosquito and tick control services. The company offers services 7 days a week and free estimates.
Warranty: All work is 100 percent guaranteed.
Company History: Ned Stevens started the company in 1965.
Employee Information: All employees receive DMV background checks, undergo extensive training in both a classroom and the field, and are subject to daily random quality-control inspections. All workers are Ned Stevens employees and are covered by full workers’ compensation and liability insurance.
Minimum Job: Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning requires a $110 job minimum.
4.3 out of 5 Trade License(s) Not Required
“Ace Gutter Cleaning has provided gutter services to the metro Atlanta area for over a decade; our mission is simple: provide the best customer service while performing high quality work.” Ace Gutter Cleaning Team
Services Offered: Ace Gutter Cleaning provides gutter cleaning, repair, and installation. The company also provides window cleaning, power washing, dryer vent cleaning, annual agreements, and free estimates.
Warranty: Ace Gutter Cleaning offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee and a 30-day no-clog guarantee.
Company History: Ace Gutter Cleaning was started in 2006.
Additional Information: Ace Gutter Cleaning is powered by Ned Stevens.
4.4 out of 5
License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ The Trusted Toolbox
10th year as a Best Pick
• Many small and medium home improvement jobs
• Carpentry, wood rot repair, drywall repair, and trim repair
• Painting
• Door and window installation and repair
• Caulking and weather stripping
• Lock sets
• Floor and wall tile installation and repair
• Grout installation and repair
• Fixture replacement and installation
• Aging-in-place and accessibility modifications
• Before reaching out to a handyman company, think through the details of your project, including what you want done and when it needs to be completed. This information will help the company give you an accurate estimate.
• Some handyman contractors charge jobs at an hourly rate, and some will quote a flat, perproject price. If you have several smaller projects that need to be taken care of, ask if the company offers half-day and full-day service packages. When you purchase a half day of service, a handyman completes as many tasks as possible in about four hours. A full-day package typically equals around eight hours of home improvement services.
• For the most efficient service and the best use of your handyman’s time, buy any materials you want him to use. Do this before the scheduled appointment so he can get straight to work. Advance preparation ensures that your handyman can make the most of his time at your house. Many handyman companies can pick up the necessary materials for you, too, but there will most likely be an additional fee for that service. Professional handymen arrive at jobs with their own tools and equipment.
• Are you planning to sell your house soon? Before you put your house on the market, hire a handyman company to take care of small updates or repairs recommended by your real estate agent.
• Some handyman companies offer light plumbing and electrical work. This typically includes tasks like installing or repairing faucets and hanging light fixtures. It’s important to know that your handyman needs to be properly licensed to do this type of work. If you need more complex plumbing or electrical work, like whole-house repiping or breaker box repair, contact a licensed plumber or electrician. If your handyman company offers light plumbing and electrical services, ask for their license number. Verify the license with the appropriate organization.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“We strive to earn our customers’ trust every day by delivering professional handyman services to complete home or office repairs and enhancements. Our background-checked handymen have the support of an entire company when stepping into your house.” Chris
Lalomia | President
Services Offered: The Trusted Toolbox offers residential and commercial handyman services, including carpentry, door and window installation, and bathroom updates as well as minor painting, electrical, and plumbing work and wood rot, drywall, and deck repair.
Warranty: The Trusted Toolbox offers a one-year workmanship warranty on all completed work.
Company History: The company was founded in 2008.
Distinctions: The Trusted Toolbox is the recipient of numerous awards and is a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and the North American Deck and Railing Association.
Services Not Offered: The company does not perform roofing, gutter, landscaping, or concrete work.
Minimum Job: All jobs require a $180 minimum labor charge.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
12th year as a Best Pick
10th year as a Best Pick
• Residential cleaning services
• One-time cleanings
• Regularly scheduled cleanings
• Deep cleaning services
• Spring cleaning services
• Move-in and move-out cleaning services
• Post-construction cleaning services
• Floor care services
• Rental cleaning service
• When you hire a professional house cleaning service, find out what the scheduled tasks are for initial cleaning and for regular service, and be sure to ask who will provide the cleaning supplies and any equipment the team will need. The first cleaning service is often a thorough deep clean, which lasts longer and costs more than normal visits. It’s also a good idea to clarify the company’s scope of services. Some companies don’t wash dishes or do laundry, for instance. Others offer these services, but for an extra fee.
• If you have kids, pets, or family members with allergies, ask about the cleaning products the company uses. Make sure products are safe for everyone in your family. If the cleaners use green
cleaning products, find out what agency has certified the products as eco-friendly.
• Ask the company if they offer any service guarantees. Some companies will return to reclean any areas if the initial work was not performed to your satisfaction or to the agreedupon details of the service agreement.
• To get an accurate quote, meet with the cleaning company at your house. This way, the company representative can see the areas you want to have cleaned. They will also be able to point out areas that would be addressed during the cleaning. Be specific about your expectations, which rooms should be cleaned, and how often you’ll need cleaning services. Quotes for house cleaning services depend on several factors. These include size of the home, frequency of service, and amount of work.
• Verify that cleaning service providers are employees of the company rather than independent contractors. Also ask whether cleaning team members pass background checks. You’ll be giving the service team access to your house, and the peace of mind of knowing everyone is trustworthy is priceless.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
Scan for additional educational content
“Over the past 36 years in business, I’ve learned that everyone’s idea of clean is different. I like to give my clients the ‘personal touch’ by meeting with each and every customer to offer estimates and to set up an individualized cleaning plan for each home. One of my company’s main goals is to provide great customer service.”
Services Offered: Personal Touch House Cleaning Service Inc performs residential home cleaning services on a weekly, biweekly, monthly, or one-time basis as well as deep cleaning and service for special cleaning requests. The company also offers commercial and construction cleaning and move-in and move-out services.
Company History: Personal Touch was founded in 1989 by Dorena Mobley Lemus and has since grown to 30 employees under her leadership as sole owner and operator. Dorena completes cleaning jobs herself in addition to running the company.
Distinctions: The company won a Best of Gwinnett award from Gwinnett Magazine as well as three Reader’s Choice awards from the Gwinnett Daily Post.
Services Not Offered: Personal Touch will fold but does not wash laundry.
Minimum Job: The company requires a $150 minimum on residential cleaning jobs.
4.6 out of 5
Not
“With offices in Kennesaw, Duluth, and Stone Mountain, we cleaned over 8,000 Georgia homes last year. Our formula for success is simple: ‘Provide the highest quality at competitive prices.’ We make it easy by providing exact pricing and setting up your service, including custom cleaning plans, right over the phone.” Bruce W. Bishop | Owner
Services Offered: It’s Maid Day! provides a full range of cleaning plans including recurring service, one-time service, deep cleaning, and movein/out services. It’s Maid Day! can create custom cleaning plans to meet clients’ needs. The company offers clients the choice of a cleaning team or an individual cleaner. All cleaners are employees and certified professionals, have passed background checks, and are insured.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent money-back satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: It’s Maid Day! opened its first location in 2010. The company now has offices in Kennesaw, Duluth, and Stone Mountain.
Distinctions: All cleaners have earned Maid Training Academy’s Certified Professional Cleaner distinction. It’s Maid Day! is also a member of ISSA Residential.
out of 5
Not Required
13th year as a Best Pick
11th year as a Best Pick ■
5th year as a Best Pick ■
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Fiberglass insulation
• Batt insulation
• Blown-in insulation
• Spray foam insulation
• Attic insulation
• Radiant barriers
• Crawl space insulation
• Air flow balancing
• Duct and air leak sealing
• Energy audits
• Fiberglass is the most widely used home insulator and noise reducer. Fiberglass insulation comes in precut batts, rolls, or blankets. Batts are strips that fit between wall studs. Fiberglass rolls can be rolled out on attic floors. Blankets are ideal for basement or crawl space ceilings.
• High utility bills are a sign that your home lacks sufficient insulation. Air escaping through openings forces your HVAC system to work harder. Over time, this shortens the system’s lifespan and increases your energy costs.
• Blown-in attic insulation settles over time. If your home is five to ten years old or older, consider adding insulation to your attic to reduce heat transfer, conserve energy, and lower utility bills.
• Foam insulation has the highest R-value of all insulation types and comes in both expanding and nonexpanding varieties. Closed-cell foam insulation is rigid and has a higher R-value than open-cell. Closed-cell foam stops moisture vapors and is highly mold resistant. Open-cell foam doesn’t stop moisture the way closed-cell foam does, but it is a less expensive option.
• Spray foam is common in new construction because it can be sprayed into open cavities during the building process. Injection foam is a popular retrofit alternative that is injected into wall cavities via small holes. It doesn’t expand during installation, reducing the risk of drywall damage.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“Aladdin was built one homeowner at a time. Since 1987, we’ve provided professional evaluations, skilled installers, and the highest-quality products. We make each and every homeowner an advertiser of our products. It is a relationship that has worked for many years, and we are committed to that promise for the future.” Charlie Whigham | General Manager
Services Offered: Aladdin Insulation specializes in home insulation installation, insulation removal, indoor air quality, complete air duct cleaning, thermal window replacement, and insulated siding. The company also provides blower door testing, thermal camera inspections, home energy audits, and free estimates.
Warranty: The company offers a comprehensive double-lifetime warranty that includes a money-back guarantee.
Company History: Aladdin was founded in 1987.
Distinctions: Aladdin is a Georgia BPI GoldStar Contractor and a Jackson EMC Home Energy Contractor.
Employee Information: All installers are employees of the company. Employees undergo background checks and drug testing.
Minimum Job: An $800 job minimum is required.
5.0 out of 5
License(s) Not
“Central has provided heating and air conditioning, insulation, indoor air quality, and home performance solutions to Atlanta homeowners for 78 years. Our BPI certified professionals are committed to providing our customers with cutting-edge improvement recommendations to best fit the unique needs of their families.” Jim Woolley, Jr. | Owner
Services Offered: Central specializes in providing attic and crawl space insulation and encapsulation, air leak sealing, and indoor air quality solutions. The company also provides Building Performance Institute (BPI) home performance energy audits.
Warranty: Central offers extensive warranties and a 100 percent satisfaction money-back guarantee.
Company History: Jim Woolley is Central’s second-generation, hands-on owner. His management team includes Chuck Genoar, Keith MacKinnon, and David Baker.
Distinctions: The company is a Georgia Power Participating Contractor. Central employs a certified BPI Analyst and Envelope Professional and is also a previous winner of the Carrier President’s Award. Additionally, Manager Keith MacKinnon serves on the advisory board of Gwinnett Technical College.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Trade
Verified
Verified
Not Required
“Since 1968, R.S. Andrews has proudly served greater Atlanta and delivered smiles to countless customers. We have expert technicians to provide you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your heating, air conditioning, and plumbing needs. Customer service is our number one priority.” Dari Payrow | President
Services Offered: R.S. Andrews installs blown-in cellulose and fiberglass insulation; performs energy audits; and provides air sealing and weatherization services. The company also offers duct sealing, HVAC service and assessments, indoor air quality products, and duct cleaning.
Warranty: R.S. Andrews offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: R.S. Andrews was started in 1968.
Distinctions: R.S. Andrews received the Dave Lennox 5 Year Excellence Award in 2011 and is a Lennox Premier Dealer. The company employs NADCA and North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certified technicians. R.S. Andrews is a member of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association and the Plumbing & Mechanical Association of Georgia.
Employee Information: Employees are background checked and certified drug-free.
4.9 out of 5
Not Required
General Liability Insurance Verified Workers’ Comp
Pick Guaranteed
“Coolray Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical believes you can live in comfort while saving money. With our insulation services, you can expect trustworthy thermal performance, air tightness, moisture management, and acoustics.” Timothy Smith | President
Services Offered: Coolray Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical offers whole-home insulation, attic and solar ventilation, radiant barrier, attic stair replacement, and extractions and air sealing. The company also provides HVAC services, indoor air quality solutions, plumbing, electrical, home water solutions, financing options, and maintenance programs.
Warranty: Coolray offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee and a lifetime parts-and-labor warranty.
Company History: The local company was established in 1966 by Ray Fussell.
Distinctions: Coolray is a factory-authorized Carrier dealer, a Carrier President’s Award winner, and a Consumer’s Choice Award winner.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified
2nd year as a Best Pick Educational Content
• Kitchen remodeling and renovation
• Bathroom remodeling and renovation
• Cabinet replacement and refacing
• Countertop and flooring replacement
• Fixture installation
• Tile installation
• Design services
• Request written estimates from several remodeling firms. When you meet with a contractor about your project, 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 update the look of your bathroom and save on your water bill at the same time with new plumbing fixtures. Think realistically about your needs and wants for the
new space. Talk to your contractor about the best options for your lifestyle and budget.
• Home renovation work can be inconvenient, but the results are worth it. A kitchen remodel, for instance, might make that space unusable at times. A temporary food station with a microwave, coffee maker, and mini fridge in another room can make the process easier.
• While each project’s 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 because the walls are likely to be marked up during construction.
• 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.
“In order to keep our company growing, we deliver the kind of work and service that satisfies our customers. Customers who have a good experience will recommend us to their friends and family. At Impressive Tile, we are a family business that cares, and we want to impress you with our work.” Jurek Niedzialek | Co-owner
Services Offered: Impressive Tile, Inc., is a full-service remodeling company specializing in bathroom remodeling. The company also offers tile installation and kitchen remodeling services, including countertop, backsplash, and cabinet installation.
Warranty: Most work completed by Impressive Tile is warranted for up to three years.
Company History: Impressive Tile is a family business founded in 2001. Chris Baran, who has 40 years of construction experience, co-owns the company with his brother-in-law, Jurek Niedzialek, who has 30 years of experience.
Services Not Offered: Impressive Tile does not refinish, paint, or repaint cabinets and vanities; refinish or reglaze tubs; install hardwood floors; tile pools; repair shower pans; regrout or reglaze tile; or clean or seal grout and tile. The company does not serve Austell or Waleska.
Minimum Job: A $2,000 project minimum is required.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
“We want our love of remodeling to show through in everything we do. We have assembled a great team of craftsmen who share our philosophy. Legacy is locally owned and operated and provides service to the north metro Atlanta suburbs. Our goal is to make our work something you want to show your neighbors.” David
Abbey
| Owner
Services Offered: Legacy Restoration Services offers complete interior renovation services for kitchens and bathrooms. The company can provide design services for a fee or use designs provided by the homeowner. Legacy installs showers, frameless glass enclosures, tubs, countertops, drywall, trim, paint, cabinets and vanities, appliances, plumbing and electrical fixtures, as well as all types of flooring.
Warranty: Legacy offers a 24-month warranty on labor and honors manufacturers’ warranties on supplied materials.
Company History: Owner David Abbey is a licensed general contractor with 25+ years of industry experience.
Services Not Offered: Legacy does not offer repairs to existing cabinets or tiles; cabinet refinishing; or grout cleaning and repair. Legacy does not service Austell, Mableton, or Powder Springs.
Minimum Job: A $5,000 project minimum is required.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s)
RLCO004707
Verified General Liability
Verified
“Our mission is to provide residential and commercial services on the basis of projects approved by the client. We are a team of professionals specializing in home improvement and home beautification. Our excellent customer service and technological innovation make us able to deliver high-quality results and competitive prices.” Julian Munoz | Owner
Services Offered: JMR Home Services provides residential bathroom, basement, and kitchen remodeling services as well as home additions. Additional services include interior and exterior painting, cabinet refinishing, drywall painting, flooring, windows, siding, gutters, decking, pressure washing, retaining walls, driveways, and roofing. The company also offers commercial services and free estimates.
Warranty: JMR Home Services provides a one-year guarantee on labor and a five-year manufacturer guarantee on paint.
Company History: The local company was established in 2016 by Julian Munoz.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms.
“We strive to earn our customers’ trust every day by delivering professional remodeling and handyman services to complete home or office enhancements and repairs. Our background-checked remodelers and handymen have the support of an entire company when stepping into your house.” Chris Lalomia | President
Services Offered: The Trusted Toolbox specializes in kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling for residential customers. The company also offers whole-home remodeling services as well as residential and commercial handyman work. Financing options are available for remodeling projects.
Warranty: The Trusted Toolbox offers a one-year workmanship warranty on all completed work.
Company History: The company was founded in 2008.
Distinctions: The Trusted Toolbox is the recipient of numerous awards and is a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and the North American Deck and Railing Association.
Services Not Offered: The company does not perform roofing, gutter, landscaping, or concrete work.
Minimum Job: All jobs require a $180 minimum labor charge.
4.9 out of 5 Verified
Pick Reports recommends:
28th year as a Best Pick
18th year as a Best Pick
7th year as a Best Pick Educational Content
• Landscape design and installation
• Landscape lighting installation
• Water features
• Retaining walls
• Irrigation and drainage
• Arbors, pergolas, and gazebos
• Walkways and pavers
• Fire pits and fireplaces
• Outdoor kitchens and living areas
• A professional landscaper can create a custom landscaping plan based on details like climate, the size and shape of your yard, how you want to use your yard, and your budget.
• Landscape designs often include both hardscaping and softscaping. Hardscaping is made up of permanent structures, like a patio, pergola, walkway, or retaining wall. Softscaping refers to the plants, flowers, shrubs, and trees.
• Work shouldn’t start until you’ve approved a fully detailed design and signed a contract. Before
you sign the contract, make sure that document matches what is included in the design drawings. Get any updates and any cost changes in writing.
• Landscaping projects typically follow this order: The landscaping plan is approved by you and your HOA, if needed; the landscaping company pulls any necessary permits; and the utility providers mark all underground lines on your property. Then, hardscaping and trees are installed, drainage and soil work takes place, irrigation is installed, and shrubs and small plants are added. Sod and landscape lighting are usually installed last.
• Good yard drainage is crucial for a successful landscaping project. Drainage solutions can include everything from grading and French drains to catch basins and swales (and more).
• Water restrictions are a fact of the present and likely the future, so include drought-resistant and native plants in your plan. Native plants are acclimated to your region’s climate, so they won’t need supplemental watering or special care.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“It is easy to do a great job when you love what you do. We spend a lot of time making the design/build process easy and fun for our clients so that we develop the best landscape solutions for their homes. At Scapes, we invite you to get outside and enjoy life.” Pete
Wilkerson | Partner
Services Offered: Scapes is a full-service landscape company that can provide turnkey service on any outdoor landscape construction project. The company handles all aspects of the landscape, from simple plantings to elaborate gardens, water features, patios, and outdoor kitchens. Scapes also designs and installs pools and terraces and performs carpentry work. Each project is designed and managed by a registered or degreed landscape architect. Scapes provides routine landscape maintenance services in certain parts of Atlanta.
Company History: The local company began in 1982.
Distinctions: Scapes has won numerous awards from the National Association of Landscape Professionals.
Minimum Job: The company’s projects begin at $20,000.
“Our objective with projects is to design and build a lifestyle for our clients, not just a landscape. Our greatest success is achieved when our clients’ dreams for their landscape are brought to life with creativity, craftsmanship, and efficiency, on budget, and as promised.” Rick Kaldrovics | President
Services Offered: Outside Landscape Group specializes in designing and building landscapes and exterior construction projects, from total curb appeal makeovers to the resort-level project in backyards. Projects typically begin as a several-day project size where a landscape architect or designer is warranted. The company’s range of installations includes landscape plantings, irrigation, outdoor lighting, pools, patios, walkways, ponds, and carpentry projects.
Company History: Company president Rick Kaldrovics, former host of HGTV’s Landscape Solutions, started Outside Landscape Group in 2000.
Employee Information: Outside Landscape Group staffs landscape architects that design and manage projects from initial concept to completion.
Minimum Job: Project minimums begin at $15,000 and move up from there.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Not Required Verified
“My commitment is to turn your outdoor dreams into vibrant reality. We take pride in enhancing residential and commercial spaces with our passion for creating sustainable and captivating environments. Your satisfaction is our inspiration, and we’re dedicated to maintaining the beauty we bring to your surroundings.” Billy
Van Eaton | Owner
Services Offered: Cumberland Landscape Group offers comprehensive residential and commercial landscape design and maintenance. In addition to turnkey landscaping and outdoor construction projects, the company designs and constructs hardscapes, including patios, water features, retaining walls, walkways, outdoor kitchens, and fireplaces. Cumberland Landscape Group also offers new outdoor lighting, drainage, and sprinkler system installation.
Company History: The company started in 1996.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer repairs for existing lighting or sprinkler systems.
Minimum Job: A $5,000 job minimum is required.
4.4 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“I have used Best Pick Reports a couple of times, and everyone has been great.”
–Allan B. | Ashburn, VA
■ Mark the Mover
18th year as a Best Pick
• Local moving services
• Long-distance moving services
• Interstate moving services
• Packing and unpacking
• Packing and moving supplies
• Loading and unloading
• Furniture assembly and disassembly
• Short- and long-term storage services
• Piano, artwork, and antique furniture moving
• Request written estimates from a couple of moving companies so you can compare options. Be sure to mention any stairs, elevators, or particularly heavy or delicate items, as well as outbuildings or storage units. The movers need to 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, valuable or 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 beginning and end of the month.
• Consider packing your belongings yourself; the cost of packing can add up quickly. Remember that if you do pack your own items, the moving company will not, in most cases, be responsible for any damage.
Companies are required to hold a Household Goods Certificate issued by the Georgia Department of Public Safety and a USDOT # (as well as an MC # for interstate movers) issued by the US Department of Transportation.
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“At Mark the Mover, we rely on repeat and referral customers for the majority of our business. Our goal is to provide an outstanding service by simply doing what we say we will do.” John
Warren | Owner
Services Offered: Mark the Mover is a full-service residential and commercial moving company. The local business can haul pool tables, chandeliers, pianos, artwork, antiques, and other awkward items, or the company can store them in one of its two 20,000-square-foot warehouses with climate control available. Mark the Mover also performs interstate moves.
Company History: The company has been in business since 1978.
Employee Information: Mark the Mover has a workforce of 50 uniformed employees, and John completes background checks on each prospective worker. The company has now grown to encompass a fleet of 18 trucks outfitted with GPS navigation systems. Crews can be tailored to each individual job.
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) HHG-7576, USDOT-758674, MC-342211
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ Outdoor Makeover & Living Spaces 678-968-4104
1st year as a Best Pick
• Outdoor living space design and installation
• Outdoor kitchens and living areas
• Walkways and pavers
• Patios and pool decks
• Arbors, pergolas, and gazebos
• Patio covers
• 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.
Some services require a Contractor License issued by the Georgia Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors.
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“We believe in transforming ordinary outdoor spaces into extraordinary sanctuaries where families can connect, unwind, and thrive. Every project reflects our dedication to sustainable design, meticulous craftsmanship, and the unique stories of our clients. It’s not just about landscaping; it’s about creating a lifestyle tailored to you.”
Navid Derakhshan | CEO
Services Offered: Outdoor Makeover & Living Spaces specializes in designing and constructing custom outdoor living spaces, including outdoor kitchens, fire features, water features, and luxury four-season rooms. The company’s other services include custom landscapes and hardscapes, custom in-ground pools and spas, sport courts and play structures, and outdoor lighting. Financing options are available.
Warranty: Customer satisfaction is guaranteed. All workmanship is guaranteed for one year.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was established in 2001.
Distinctions: The company is a Best of Houzz 10x Winner, including Best of Houzz 2024.
Services Not Offered: Outdoor Makeover & Living Spaces does not offer maintenance services.
Minimum Job: Projects begin at $20,000. A $500 design consultation fee is charged and applied to the job cost.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) RBCO003299
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
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.
28th year as a Best Pick
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26th year as a Best Pick
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678-321-2956 24th year as a Best Pick
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22nd year as a Best Pick
LLC
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18th year as a Best Pick
■ Atlanta Painting Company 678-506-2780 10th 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
• 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 and matte finishes are best for low-traffic areas.
• Make sure the painter you hire includes proper prep work in the estimate for your job. 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.
• Quality matters. Cheaper paints often require more coats to get the same result as higherquality 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.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“Customers hire us because they want professional project management by an insured company that guarantees its work and will be in business for years to come. We are different because we hold to the highest standards of workmanship and service. We go the extra mile to take care of our customers.” Chuck Brownlow | President
Services Offered: Brownlow & Sons offers complete interior and exterior painting services and maintains an in-house crew of painters. The company also provides all types of remodeling services as well as handyman and repair services.
Warranty: All remodeling and painting projects are under warranty. The company will repair any work that does not meet the agreed-upon design.
Company History: Brownlow & Sons has been family owned since its founding by Roy Brownlow in 1945. Roy passed the company to his sons Dean and Mickey, who passed it to the third generation, Chuck, in 1995. Matt, a fourth-generation Brownlow, and key longtime employees will own the company in the future.
Additional Information: The company provides complimentary emergency service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for existing customers.
4.9
Not
“Kenneth W. Axt & Associates has been painting Atlanta’s fine homes for over 50 years. We maintain high standards of workmanship and use only the highest-quality materials. Our office staff is very service oriented and friendly, and they love getting to know our customers and their needs. We stress fairness and honesty with our customers.” Ken Axt | Owner
Services Offered: Kenneth W. Axt & Associates is a residential painting company. The company gives detailed, thorough painting and carpentry estimates on-site. Kenneth W. Axt & Associates also offers free color and design advice. In addition to these services, the company performs stucco repair, siding replacement, and gutter installation.
Warranty: A ten-year warranty is available to customers.
Company History: Kenneth Axt started the company in 1973, and it is still family owned and managed.
Employee Information: With only 25 painters, Ken is a very hands-on owner. He and his brother, David, do all the estimates and oversee the daily operations of the company.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified
“From the very beginning, we have focused on delivering excellent workmanship and outstanding customer service. We make sure that our customers are well informed throughout the entire process. As a homeowner, I treat people the way I want to be treated when I have work done to my house.” Robert
Services Offered: Impressive Finishes offers a variety of services, including interior and exterior painting, exterior wood staining, drywall repair, light carpentry repair, cabinet painting, garage floor painting, and deck and fence staining. The company can also provide a decorator for color consultation.
Warranty: The company provides written transferable warranties ranging from five to seven years.
Company History: Robert McClure founded the business in 1990 and remains involved in daily operations.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and have been with the company for at least ten years.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer faux finishes, wallpapering, stipple or popcorn finish removal, or interior wood staining. Pressure washing is only provided with exterior painting.
Minimum Job: A $1,000 minimum is required; a four-room minimum is required for interior painting.
McClure | Owner
of
“We work hard to follow our jobs all the way through from the first phone call to our customer satisfaction sign-off sheet at the job’s completion. We like to put our customers in a comfort zone. We communicate clearly and often, and we do what we say we will do. We are your total exterior solution.” Irwin
Weitz | Founder
& Owner
Services Offered: SuperiorPRO, LLC performs residential and commercial painting, color consulting, and carpentry repair. The company also offers fiber cement and vinyl siding installation, wood, vinyl, PVC, and fiberglass window and door replacement, stucco sealing and repair, roof and gutter replacement, and insulation.
Warranty: SuperiorPRO offers a two-year labor warranty and honors Sherwin-Williams product warranties.
Company History: Irwin Weitz founded SuperiorPRO in 1998 and remains a hands-on owner.
Distinctions: The company is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Remodeler and earned a spot on Remodeling Magazine’s Top 550 list.
Services Not Offered: SuperiorPRO does not repair siding unless the repair is part of a siding project. The company also does not repair gutters.
Minimum Job: A $2,000 minimum is required.
4.4 out of 5
Not
“Our goal is to help our customers by increasing the value of their home. For that reason, we always use top-of-the-line paint, roofing, windows, siding, and gutters. We operate by the Golden Rule, so I only offer people the kind of products that I would use in my own home. We’re in the business of doing quality work.” Scott
Nelson | Owner
Services Offered: Nelson Exteriors provides interior and exterior painting, drywall repair, and carpentry. The company also installs roofing, HardiePlank siding, replacement windows, wood and composite decks, traditional gutters, and gutter covers.
Warranty: Nelson Exteriors offers a four- or seven-year warranty.
Company History: The second-generation, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1977.
Distinctions: The company is a licensed contractor in Georgia, an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm, and a Georgia Certified Lead Renovation Firm. Nelson Exteriors is also a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor and employs a Simonton Windows Master Consultant.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer roof or gutter repairs.
Minimum Job: A $1,000 minimum is required.
Not Required
“Our team of professionals is here to help guide you through the process of updating and protecting your home. We are the painters you can trust.” Chris Camp | Owner
Services Offered: Atlanta Painting Company offers residential interior painting, exterior painting, cabinets, brick, lime wash, decks, and gutters.
Warranty: The company offers warranties of three, five, seven, and ten years.
Company History: Atlanta Painting Company was founded in 2006 by Chris Camp to serve the metro-Atlanta area.
Employee Information: Employees of Atlanta Painting Company wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles.
Minimum Job: The company requires a minimum job of $1,000.
4.4 out of 5
Not Required
■ Alexander Termite & Pest Control
27th year as a Best Pick
■ BREDA Pest Management
24th year as a Best Pick
■ North Fulton Pest Solutions 678-321-2976 13th year as a Best Pick
■ Critter Control 470-837-6284 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
• 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, and clear debris from your yard. Termites need moisture to breed, so keep gutters and downspouts clear. 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.
Companies are required to hold a Structural Pest Control Company License issued by the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Scan for additional educational content
“Year after year, Alexander brings Atlanta’s homeowners the best quality and value in pest
You can see it in our long history of great reviews in Best Pick quality research, you can rely on it because we’re a
company by NPMA since 2005, and you can experience it in your own home by calling us today.” Rick
Services Offered: Alexander Termite & Pest Control provides services for household pests, mosquitoes, and subterranean termites in metro Atlanta. Alexander offers flexible service plans based on customers’ needs.
Company History: James H. Alexander started the company in 1966. Since then, it has been managed by family members and experienced employees.
Distinctions: Alexander has been designated a QualityPro company by the National Pest Management Association since 2005. The company is a member of the GPCA, the AMCA, and the NPMA. Alexander has been a Best Pick company since 1998.
Employee Information: On average, Alexander’s technicians have been with the company for over ten years.
Services Not Offered: Alexander does not treat bedbugs.
of
Curtis | President
“We are a second-generation, family-owned company that started with one client and one employee in 1975. We’ve never merged with or acquired another company and have grown to 175+ employees and 135+ vehicles on the road daily. That growth is due to our investment in our employees, clients, and technology we use every day.” Rodger Breda | Founder
Services Offered: BREDA offers quarterly pest control, mosquito control, termite control, and wildlife services including trapping, entry point sealing, and disinfection of critter waste. The company also provides Official Georgia Wood Infestation Inspection Reports for homeowners refinancing or selling a home.
Warranty: BREDA offers transferable termite re-treatment and repair warranties, lifetime renewable warranties for wildlife control, and return visits at no charge for pest and mosquito clients still having issues.
Company History: BREDA was founded in 1975.
Distinctions: The company is certified by the Infraspection Institute in the theory and application of infrared thermal imaging equipment and is a certified installer of borate loose-fill insulation. BREDA is a member of the Georgia Pest Control Association and is the official pest control company of the Georgia Bulldogs.
Services Not Offered: BREDA does not treat bedbugs.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Verified
Verified
Verified
Liability Insurance
Comp
“Since 1970, North Fulton Pest Solutions (NFPS) has delivered superior-quality pest control service, customer service, and peace of mind to our clients. We truly appreciate the opportunity to become your pest control company and a trusted steward of your home.” R. Blake Edwards | Owner & President
Services Offered: North Fulton Pest Solutions (NFPS) offers environmentally responsible pest, rodent, mosquito, and termite control services. The company also provides humane wildlife removal, exclusion, gutter protection, and attic and subfloor insulation services.
Warranty: NFPS offers guarantees for annual pest and mosquito control programs, lifetime renewable guarantees for full wildlife exclusions, and unlimited damage repair guarantees for qualifying termite treatments.
Company History: The 55-year-old, local, family-owned-and-operated business is led by an Associate Certified Entomologist who is the nation’s second and the state of Georgia’s first Public Health Entomology Certificate Holder.
Distinctions: NFPS is a Certified Sentricon Specialist, a Termidor Certified Professional, and a member of the National Pest Management Association and the Georgia Pest Control Association.
“Satisfying homeowners for over 40 years, Critter Control resolves pest and nuisance wildlife problems. We strive to provide the highest quality of customer service while ensuring you and your family’s safety. Our services focus on getting rid of the problem, repairing damage, then keeping pests from re-entering your home or business.” Company Representative
Services Offered: Critter Control’s trained professionals specialize in addressing pest problems that include (but are not limited to) mice, rats, wasps, bees, mosquitoes, squirrels, raccoons, snakes, bats, birds, and more. Critter Control performs safe and humane removal of pests and wildlife, preventative recurring services, insulation replacement, dead animal removal, and exclusion repairs.
Company History: With over 100 offices in the US and Canada, Critter Control is the nation’s leading wildlife control company and has been resolving wildlife issues for customers for over 40 years.
Employee Information: Employees must pass background checks and drug tests. The company’s technicians wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles.
Services Not Offered: Critter Control does not provide services for domestic animals, termites, or bedbugs.
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) 100346 Verified
Verified
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
• Low water pressure can signal a water line problem or sediment buildup. Test the water pressure at the faucets, then remove faucet aerators to look for sediment. Also check for 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.
• The Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association recommends setting your water heater no higher than 120 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.
• 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.
• Frost-proof outside spigots can prevent costly repairs. The spigot’s valve is installed deep in the wall, which keeps the water in the pipe from freezing.
“Our goal is to provide our clients with a better service experience by extensively training our plumbing and HVAC team. We take the extra steps necessary to protect our clients’ homes and to leave it better than we found them. We’ve learned a lot since 1922, and we use that knowledge to be a little better than the day before.” Bryan Stansell | Owner
Services Offered: Fulton Services is a high-end, full-service plumbing, heating, and air conditioning contractor. In addition to routine plumbing services, Fulton installs tankless water heaters and offers sewer line replacements using trenchless technology.
Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1922. Bryan Stansell, owner and president, has led Fulton for over 50 years.
Employee Information: Fulton performs background checks, drug testing, and driving tests on all field employees. All employees must meet the company’s professional qualifications. According to Bryan, Fulton’s technicians are accessible 24 hours a day for emergency situations.
Additional Information: The company services most of the metro-Atlanta area.
4.8
“Our goal is simple. We deliver value to our customers. Family owned and operated since 1988, we maintain impeccable quality and deliver what we promise, at the price we agreed upon. Value: it’s what we do.” James Cunningham | Owner
Services Offered: Superior Plumbing provides residential and light commercial plumbing repair services for clogged pipes; water heater, sewer, and toilet issues; leaking valves and faucets; and problems with natural gas pipes and plastic water lines.
Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 1988.
Distinctions: Superior Plumbing has been voted Best of Cobb’s Best Plumber since 2019. The company received the Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s 2012 Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year award.
Employee Information: Superior Plumbing conducts drug testing in accordance with Georgia’s Drug-Free Workplace program. All plumbers have cleared state and federal criminal background checks.
Additional Information: The company provides up-front pricing and delivers professional work.
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Verified Trade License(s) MP006066
Verified
Verified
“Since 1968, R.S. Andrews has proudly served greater Atlanta and delivered smiles to countless customers. We have expert technicians to provide you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your heating, air conditioning, and plumbing needs. Customer service is our number one priority.” Dari Payrow | President
Services Offered: R.S. Andrews installs and repairs plumbing fixtures; sewer, water, and gas lines; tankless, electric, and gas water heaters; water filtration systems; and sump, sewer, and hot water circulating pumps. Other services include 24-hour emergency service, repiping, electronic leak detection, and drain cleaning.
Warranty: R.S. Andrews offers a 30-day warranty on labor and a one-year warranty on parts.
Company History: R.S. Andrews was started in 1968.
Distinctions: R.S. Andrews is a Rinnai ACE PRO dealer. The company employs a Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester certified by the Georgia Association of Water Professionals. R.S. Andrews is a member of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association and the Plumbing & Mechanical Association of Georgia.
Employee Information: Employees of the company are background checked and certified drug-free.
Services Not Offered: Septic service is not available.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MP210186
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“Our mission is to carry on the tradition of integrity and quality service that started in 1949 when Estes was founded. We will always strive to employ the best people and provide the most efficient, effective service and the best warranties available to our customers, including a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on all services.” Tommy Estes | President
Services Offered: Estes provides plumbing services to residential customers, including repair and replacement of faucets and toilets, water line upgrades, water heater replacement, leak repair, clog removal, and installation of whole-house water filtration systems.
Warranty: Estes offers a variety of warranties to cover parts and labor and honors all manufacturers’ warranties, including a one-year warranty on all plumbing repairs.
Company History: Founded by N.B. Estes, the company has served Atlanta for 76 years. Estes has over 150 professionals on staff and offices located on the south and north sides of metro Atlanta.
Distinctions: Estes employs Master Plumbers and is a past winner of Contracting Business magazine’s Residential Contractor of the Year award.
4.9 out of 5 Verified
“At Casteel, we’re serious about taking ‘Amazing Care’ of you! That means we’ll care for your home as if it’s our own. If you aren’t completely satisfied, we’ll refund your money. That’s just one of the reasons families trust Casteel for outstanding heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical service.” Dave Geiger | Owner
Services Offered: Casteel Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical provides residential plumbing services, including sewer line repair and replacement and drain clearing. The company installs, repairs, and maintains gas and electric water heaters. Casteel also offers residential HVAC, indoor air quality, and electrical services as well as 24/7 emergency service.
Warranty: Casteel offers a two-year guarantee on repairs as well as various warranties on water heater installations. All work performed by the company is backed by Casteel’s Amazing Care Guarantee.
Company History: Casteel was founded in 1987.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms and shoe covers, use drop cloths, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Services Not Offered: The company does not install or service industrial or commercial systems.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MP210486
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“TE is an award-winning company that has served the Atlanta area for over 20 years. We value your time, so we offer same-day service, three-hour arrival windows, and a call ahead before we arrive. You can also count on written estimates and flat-rate pricing. Our technicians drive fully stocked trucks, so they are ready for any task.” Josh Brooker | Owner
Services Offered: TE provides plumbing services, including drain cleaning, whole-home repiping, water supply piping, whole-home plumbing inspections, sewer line camera inspections, and water and sewer line services. The company also repairs and replaces water heaters, bathroom fixtures, garbage disposals, pressure regulators, recirculation systems, and sewage and sump pumps. TE also offers electrical services and installs, repairs, and services all brands of heating and cooling equipment.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime workmanship warranty on all work.
Company History: TE was established in 2003.
Employee Information: The company’s certification program requires a written test, weekly training, a background check, drug tests, and five years of experience.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) MP210875
Verified
Best Pick Reports recommends:
■ Outdoor Makeover & Living Spaces
1st year as a Best Pick
• Swimming pool design and construction
• Pool renovation
• Pool deck and coping remodeling and resurfacing
• Pool enclosures
• Pool equipment installation, maintenance, and repair
• Spa additions
• Hot tub installation
• In early spring and through the summer, most pool companies are extremely busy. If you can, try to have pool work done in the off-season months. Pool renovations, in particular, are best to have done in the fall and winter when the pool probably wouldn’t be in use anyway.
• Gunite is a popular material for pool construction because of its durability and versatility. Gunite is essentially the same material as concrete, but it is sprayed onto the steel pool framework with a high-pressure hose. This means that a gunite pool can be virtually any size or shape.
• For gunite to properly set, it needs to be watered. The crew will water the gunite several times a day in the summer. If your pool build happens in the winter, they’ll water the gunite once per day. After the gunite is set, the crew will install tile and
coping, followed by the pool decking. Inlet and drain covers, filter equipment, and pool lights go in next, and then the finish is applied. Watertight, leakproof plaster is the most common choice. Finally, the crew will start filling the pool and begin the chemical start-up.
• Saltwater pools are popular because they aren’t as drying to the skin and hair as conventional chlorine pools. Saltwater pools use salt and a chlorine generator to create the chlorine needed to keep the pool clean, but the chlorine concentration is lower than in a standard chlorine pool.
• Chlorine pools are less expensive up front than saltwater pools, but they generally require more maintenance. Because the supply of chlorine is not constant, the pool’s chemical balance needs to be closely monitored. In addition to the normal maintenance tasks, the pool will need to be shocked on a weekly basis to kill any bacteria that may have developed.
• Pools typically need to be remodeled after about ten years, but this can vary based on the pool’s material and how well it has been maintained. A good guideline is to keep an eye out for cracks, leaks, and general deterioration. If you see any of those issues, it’s likely time for a remodel.
Companies are required to hold a Contractor License issued by the Georgia Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors.
Scan for additional educational content
“We believe in transforming ordinary outdoor spaces into extraordinary sanctuaries where families can connect, unwind, and thrive. Every project reflects our dedication to sustainable design, meticulous craftsmanship, and the unique stories of our clients. It’s not just about landscaping; it’s about creating a lifestyle tailored to you.”
Navid Derakhshan | CEO
Services Offered: Outdoor Makeover & Living Spaces designs and builds custom in-ground pools and spas for residential clients. The company’s other services include landscape design and installation, custom hardscaping, outdoor living spaces, water features, sport courts and play structures, drainage solutions, custom gardens, and outdoor lighting. Financing options are available.
Warranty: Customer satisfaction is guaranteed. All workmanship is guaranteed for one year.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was established in 2001.
Distinctions: The company is a Best of Houzz 10x Winner, including Best of Houzz 2024.
Services Not Offered: Outdoor Makeover & Living Spaces does not offer maintenance services.
Minimum Job: Projects begin at $20,000. A $500 design consultation fee is charged and applied to the job cost.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Verified Trade License(s) RBCO003299
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
27th year as a Best Pick
11th year as a Best Pick
9th 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
• 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.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“Our employees make the difference. The crews are in-house, know what they’re doing, and are supervised every day. Our sales approach is low key and simple: ‘Here is a fair price using the best materials and workmen, and we’ll keep every promise we make.’” Mark Ashe | President
Services Offered: Echols replaces residential and commercial roofs; installs synthetic wood shake/slate roofs that are identical to natural products; and offers gutters and true slate, flat, and metal roofs. An on-staff insurance specialist assists with roof claims. Echols installs windows and doors and offers siding, carpentry repairs, chimney chase and deck rebuilds, most home exterior projects, and basement finishing. Free design consultations are available upon request for larger projects.
Warranty: Total customer satisfaction is guaranteed.
Company History: Frank Echols founded the company in 1960. It is currently run by Frank’s stepson, Mark Ashe, who began working for Echols in 1973.
Distinctions: Echols is a CertainTeed ShingleMaster and a GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor. Roofing installation crews are factory-certified through GAF.
Employee Information: Some crews have been with Echols for over 20 years.
4.9 out of 5
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“At Superior, we don’t focus on volume; we just focus on doing good, quality work. We make every attempt to do the job right the first time, so we don’t have to go back and fix our work. I have built my business with a lot of personal involvement, and I plan to be here for the long haul.” Ron Herring | Owner
Services Offered: Superior Roofing Company of Georgia focuses on re-roofing and repairing shingled and metal roofs. The company also provides and installs custom skylights as well as chimney caps, pans, and shrouds.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: Ron Herring, who has 40+ years of experience in the roofing business, founded Superior Roofing Company of Georgia in 1990 and has owned and run it ever since.
Distinctions: Superior Roofing is a CertainTeed Select ShingleMaster and ranked 13th in all of North America in CertainTeed’s 2023 Roofer’s TrackRecord Survey.
Employee Information: Superior Roofing is a state-certified drug-free workplace.
Services Not Offered: Superior Roofing does not work on specialty roofs, such as slate.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Not Required
“We are all about quality. All of our salesmen are experienced roofers themselves. We walk through and inspect each job after it’s done to make sure it is up to our standards. We set the standards that others follow. A contributing factor to our quality of work is our many long-term employees.” Mark Rutherford | Co-owner
Services Offered: Atlanta Roofing Specialists is a residential and commercial roofing company that performs re-roofing projects, roof repair, and construction repair as well as gutter and gutter cover installation.
Warranty: Atlanta Roofing Specialists warrants new roofs for 10 years, including a 40-point final inspection. The company also warrants repairs for up to 2 years.
Company History: Atlanta Roofing Specialists was cofounded in 1993 and is co-owned by Kevin King and Mark Rutherford. Kevin manages the office and sales staff, while Mark manages the crews and the workmanship quality. Kevin and Mark work in the field daily.
Distinctions: Atlanta Roofing Specialists is a GAF Master Elite Roofer and Master Select Contractor, a CertainTeed Select ShingleMaster, and a Versico Authorized Contractor. The company won GAF’s Master Elite Triple Excellence Award in 2018 for excellence in warranty registrations, training, and quality installations.
4.9 out of 5
License(s) Not Required
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“KTM Roofing Company has been raising the standard since 1984. This comes from working for others before starting my own company and believing that life is better for everyone if the work is a masterful installation by a professional staff backed by a strong company.” Chris Russell | President
Services Offered: KTM Roofing Company, Inc., offers roof replacement and repair, flat roof sealed systems, seamless gutters, and Valor gutter guards. The company specializes in installing and repairing specialty roofs such as tile, slate, and wood shake roofs.
Warranty: KTM offers a written, twelve-year, transferable workmanship warranty along with the manufacturer’s warranty on roof replacements as well as two- and five-year warranties on repairs. Commercial sealed systems include a 20-year, no-dollar-limit warranty.
Company History: The company started in 1984.
Distinctions: KTM is a CertainTeed Select ShingleMaster, GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor, and Carlisle Authorized Applicator. KTM received the Ludowici National Project of the Year Award for roofing the East Lake Golf Club’s historic clubhouse.
Employee Information: KTM’s sales consultants are salaried and drive company vehicles.
4.8 out of 5
License(s) Not Required
“We’re successful because we say what we mean, we do what we say, and we are very thorough. We try very, very hard to get it done right the first time. Our business is based on referrals, and our customers hire us because they want good service and quality. Call us for an estimate today and ask for me or Nathan Speers.” Andrew Dalby | President & Owner
Services Offered: Atlanta Re-Roof Specialists, Inc., is a residential roofing company that replaces and repairs asphalt shingles, cedar shake, synthetic slate/shake, tile, slate, and flat roofs. In addition to these services, the company offers skylight repair/replacement and chimney cap replacement.
Warranty: The company provides a minimum ten-year warranty on the workmanship of replacement roofs as well as a one-year warranty on most repairs.
Company History: Andrew Dalby, president and owner of Atlanta Re-Roof Specialists, founded the business in 1992. Nathan Speers has been with Atlanta Re-Roof for over 20 years.
Distinctions: Atlanta Re-Roof Specialists is a CertainTeed Select ShingleMaster.
“Dr Roof cares about its customers like no one else. Dr Roof’s goal is complete customer satisfaction. Our roofers and siding installers are experts at roof repairs, roof installs, hail and wind damage restoration, and siding. The goal is to do the job right the first time.” Paul
Stoeppelwerth
| CEO
Services Offered: Dr Roof Atlanta provides repair, maintenance, replacement, and installation services for asphalt shingle, composite, and flat roofs. The company also offers inspections, skylight installation, gutter installation, downspout replacement, fiber cement and vinyl siding, and free estimates.
Warranty: Dr Roof Atlanta provides lifetime material warranties, 1- to 2-year repair warranties, and 10- to 25-year product-specific workmanship warranties on installations.
Company History: The local company was founded in 1988 by David Friedlander.
Distinctions: The company is a GAF Master Elite Contractor, a TAMKO MasterCraft Pro Certified Contractor, and a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor.
Employee Information: Background checked employees drive marked vehicles and are drug tested.
Minimum Job: A $250 job minimum is required.
4.8 out of 5 Trade
Not Required
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Verified
13th year as a
12th year as a Best Pick ■
9th year as a Best Pick
7th year as a Best Pick
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Siding installation
• Siding replacement and repair
• Vinyl and insulated vinyl siding
• Fiber cement siding
• Engineered wood siding
• Cedar siding
• Exterior home remodeling and renovation
• Signs that you need to replace your siding include warped planks, rotten areas, holes, bubbling paint, and persistent mold or mildew growth.
• 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.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional
“As a second-generation owner, I take pride in satisfying customers by providing them with custom-detailed weatherizing and exterior remodeling. Continued growth has been our blessing, and my partner, T.C. Boothe, and I have the industry experience to help you invest in the future of your home.” Jerry Hardeman, Jr. | Owner
Services Offered: DuraMAX Siding & Windows installs fiber cement and solid core insulated composite siding, insulated windows and entry doors, fiber cement and vinyl soffit and fascia, seamless aluminum gutters and gutter systems, and roofing.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime workmanship warranty and honors all manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: DuraMAX Siding & Windows was founded in 1970 by Jerry Hardeman, Sr., and the company remains family owned and operated by Jerry Hardeman, Jr., and T.C. Boothe.
Additional Information: The company carries James Hardie siding and soffit, Slocomb and ProVia windows and doors, TruGuard gutter protection systems, and GAF roofing.
Services Not Offered: The company does not repair roofs or window glass.
“Our goal is to help our customers by increasing the value of their homes. For that reason, we always use top-of-the-line paint, roofing, windows, siding, and gutters. We operate by the Golden Rule, so I only offer people the kind of products that I would use in my own home. We’re in the business of doing quality work.” Scott Nelson | Owner
Services Offered: Nelson Exteriors installs a wide variety of siding, windows, and doors. The company also offers roofing, deck installation and resurfacing, carpentry, gutter replacement, and interior and exterior painting.
Warranty: Nelson Exteriors provides written warranties on all products and labor.
Company History: The company was founded in 1977 and is secondgeneration, family owned.
Distinctions: The company is a licensed contractor in Georgia, an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm, and a Georgia Certified Lead Renovation Firm. Nelson Exteriors is also a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor and employs a Simonton Windows Master Consultant and a Therma-Tru Doors certified installer.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer roof or gutter repair.
Minimum Job: A $1,000 minimum is required.
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
“We work hard to follow our jobs all the way through from the first phone call to our customer satisfaction sign-off sheet at the job’s completion. We like to put our customers in a comfort zone. We communicate clearly and often, and we do what we say we will do. We are your total exterior solution.” Irwin
Weitz | Founder & Owner
Services Offered: SuperiorPRO, LLC installs fiber cement and vinyl siding. The company also offers interior and exterior painting, window replacement, stucco sealing and repair, roof replacement, gutter replacement, and insulation.
Warranty: SuperiorPRO provides a lifetime labor warranty and honors manufacturers’ product warranties.
Company History: Irwin Weitz founded SuperiorPRO in 1998 and remains a hands-on owner.
Distinctions: The company is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Remodeler and earned a spot on Remodeling Magazine’s Top 550 list.
Additional Information: The company offers products from a variety of brands.
Services Not Offered: SuperiorPRO does not repair siding unless the repair is part of a siding project. The company also does not repair gutters.
Minimum Job: A $2,000 minimum is required.
“Our mission is to provide the highest quality of work at a competitive price. We strive to deliver expert craftsmanship and customer service to every project. Our ongoing commitment to excellence has resulted in quality relationships with both our suppliers and customers.” Charlie
Dallavalle | Founder
& Owner
Services Offered: Siding Plus provides installation, replacement, and repair of fiber cement siding for residential and commercial customers. The company also installs trim, fascia, and gutters in addition to performing roofing work and exterior painting.
Warranty: Siding Plus offers a limited lifetime warranty and honors all manufacturer warranties.
Company History: The family-owned-and-operated company was established in 1998.
Distinctions: Siding Plus is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Remodeler. The company is also a member of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce.
Additional Information: Siding Plus offers products from a variety of brands, including James Hardie and Sherwin-Williams as well as an array of vinyl and custom replacement windows.
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“You can count on the team at Siding Depot to satisfy all of your siding, painting, and roofing needs quickly and efficiently. We know how much quality means to you, and we work hard to give you the absolute best on every job. We are ready to serve you with an experienced team of professionals.” CEO
Services Offered: Siding Depot is a full-service exterior contractor that offers full siding replacement of various types of lap, panel, shingle, and vertical siding for residential and commercial customers. Siding Depot also provides roof, window, and gutter installation as well as exterior painting services.
Warranty: Siding Depot provides written product warranties as well as labor warranties.
Company History: The local company was founded in 2015.
Distinctions: Siding Depot is a James Hardie Preferred Remodeler.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles. The company does not hire subcontractors.
Additional Information: Siding Depot carries Timberline, SherwinWilliams, and Valspar products.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer partial siding replacement.
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“Pacific Exteriors LLC was founded with an emphasis on offering the highest-quality siding installations in the industry with solutions specifically crafted for your home. Whether you’re looking to install brand-new siding or just replacing one wall, we are here for you with professional service to keep your home looking great!” David Homavand | President
Services Offered: Pacific Exteriors LLC installs and repairs fiber cement, vinyl, metal, and cedar siding. The company offers personal consultations and custom design services.
Warranty: Pacific Exteriors provides written warranties on all products and labor.
Company History: The local, family-owned company was founded in 2008.
Distinctions: Pacific Exteriors is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Remodeler, a James Hardie President’s Club winner. Pacific Exteriors is also a member of the Master Builders Association.
Additional Information: In addition to siding, the company offers windows, gutters, fascia, and soffit replacement services.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Not Required Verified
■ I.D.P. Tile Contractor
18th year as a Best Pick
• Tile installation for bathrooms, kitchens, floors, and backsplashes
• Specialty tile work
• Tile repair
• The most popular types of tile are ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone. Ceramic tile can be glazed or unglazed. Glazed ceramic tile is a popular choice because it’s stain- and moistureresistant. Unglazed tile typically isn’t used for flooring or countertops because it’s susceptible to stains. Porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile. It comes in an almost endless variety of colors, designs, and textures. Natural stone tile is unique and visually interesting with its varied colors and textures. Natural stone tile needs to be sealed on a regular basis to protect it from stains.
• Tile comes in a wide range of prices, so you’ll be able to find something you like regardless of your budget. Sometimes, a higher price indicates better durability, but in most cases, it just means that the tile is detailed and needs a skilled installer. Cheaper tile is just as water resistant and easy to clean as expensive tile.
• Different areas of your house may require slightly different tiling processes. Since tile is often
678-345-1540
installed in bathrooms and kitchens, contractors typically use either greenboard or blueboard drywall as the tile backer board. Greenboard drywall is moisture resistant, while blueboard has slightly more water-resistant qualities. Waterproof cement board is another common option, especially for bathrooms.
• In a tiled space that will get wet often, it’s normal for some water to permeate the grout. The key to preventing water damage is installing waterproof backer board and vapor barrier. The backer board and vapor barrier must be installed (and installed correctly) before the tile goes up.
• Cracking is the most common problem with tile floors. Tile is strong, but it can crack if it isn’t installed on a solid, even surface. A tile floor must have a solid subfloor. Conventional wooden subfloors flex slightly when they’re walked on. This means that these types of subfloors might need reinforcement before installing tile on top.
• Many contractors bid their jobs with a tile allowance. This means that you don’t necessarily need to select your tile before signing a contract for home remodeling work. You can select the tile later, and the price of the job will be adjusted accordingly.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
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“I am very particular about doing the work right. I take care of every detail of the job. I don’t overpromise, and I won’t tell you I’m going to do something and then not do it. I like the customers to be happy when the job is done. I have a lot of referrals and repeat customers because I know that if I do a very good job, I’ll get more work.” John
Puie | Owner
Services Offered: I.D.P. Tile Contractor is a very small tile company that installs tile on bathroom, kitchen, and foyer floors; shower stalls; porches; and walls. The company can install all types of tile, including tile made of natural stone such as marble, granite, and slate. I.D.P. also replaces shower pans.
Warranty: The company guarantees all work for three years.
Company History: John Puie, who is a Romanian immigrant with more than 25 years of tile-setting experience, founded the company in 2001. John is a hands-on owner and does all the estimates himself.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer full remodeling projects, regrouting, tile installation on countertops, or tile reglazing.
Minimum Job: I.D.P. requires a $300 minimum job.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
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9th year as a Best Pick
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7th year as a Best Pick
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4th year as a Best Pick
■ Bartlett Tree Experts
1st year as a Best Pick
• Tree pruning and trimming
• Tree removal
• Cabling and bracing
• Root fertilization
• Stump grinding
• Insect and disease control
• Tree planting
• Tree care consultations
• Tree health and risk assessments
Educational Content
• Tree disease diagnosis and treatment plans
• Never allow anyone to climb your trees with climbing spikes unless the tree is being removed. Climbing spikes create wounds that can expose the tree to fatal disease and insect attacks.
• Consult a professional arborist prior to starting construction activities around trees. Most of a tree’s feeding roots are in the top six to eight inches of the soil and extend beyond the canopy spread. This means that the root system is easy to damage accidentally during projects that involve soil grading or digging.
• Mulching over a tree’s root system conserves soil moisture, but the tree’s roots still need to be able to breathe. The mulch layer should be only three to four inches thick. Too much mulch starves the roots of oxygen and causes more harm than good.
• Tree topping, or cutting off the top of the tree, is a common practice, but tree care experts do not recommend it. Crown reduction is a healthier, safer option. This technique involves removing specific branches at or near the treetop. While tree topping can kill the tree, crown reduction is less damaging. Experts recommend removing no more than a quarter of a tree’s branches at one time.
• Mushroom growth on or around your trees is a sign of trunk or root decay. Decay weakens a tree and makes it more likely to fall or split. If the problem is caught early, an arborist may be able to save the tree.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
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“Our love for trees has brought us from corporate America to the tree care industry. Our previous experience in quality control and project management has allowed us to deliver an unparalleled level of quality service and raise the industry standard for tree care projects, from start to finish.” Jeremiah & Nathaniel Wilson | Co-owners
Services Offered: AKA Tree Service offers comprehensive tree care services for residential and commercial customers, including tree removal, pruning, trimming, and fertilization. The company also provides insect and disease control, emergency storm services, and crane services.
Company History: AKA Tree Service is a regional company that was founded in 2011.
Distinctions: The company employs ISA Certified Arborists and is a member of the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA).
Employee Information: All employees wear proper protective equipment at every jobsite, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
“At 770-Arborist, we love trees and provide the highest level of tree health care consultation and tree service. We offer 24-hour emergency response for hazard trees, and we can work directly with your insurance company. Trees are valuable assets. Consult with our tree care professionals to protect your investment.” Mark Russell | Owner
Services Offered: 770-Arborist specializes in hazardous tree removal and pruning and offers 24/7 emergency service. The company does not require up-front payment for emergency services and offers insurance claims assistance. Other services offered include tree risk assessments, planting, cabling, and fertilization.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: The company was founded in 1997.
Distinctions: 770-Arborist has an ISA Certified Arborist who is Tree Risk Assessment Qualified on staff as well as a licensed public adjuster
Employee Information: Employees wear apparel with the company logo.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Trade
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“’Tree Care You Can Trust’. Top Tier Trees is an experienced tree service company serving Marietta and the surrounding areas. Through the application of the latest arboriculture practices and maintaining the utmost standards of service and integrity, we have built a reputation of forming lifelong, trusting relationships with every client.” David Hall | Owner
Services Offered: Top Tier Trees offers all services related to arboriculture and residential and commercial tree care needs. The company specializes in hazardous tree removal, technical pruning, stump grinding, plant healthcare, and green waste removal. The company states that it uses the latest arboricultural standards and practices. Top Tier Trees provides free estimates.
Warranty: The company provides a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: The family-owned company was founded in 2013 by husband-and-wife team David and Mandy Hall.
Distinctions: Top Tier employs ISA Certified Arborists who are Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ). Top Tier is a state-certified drug-free workplace and is a member of the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) and the Georgia Arborist Association.
Rating: 5.0
of 5
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“We are committed to providing scientifically based landscape management recommendations, delivering quality service safely and at a level that meets or exceeds industry standards. We strive to achieve total client satisfaction.”
Robert Bartlett | Owner
Services Offered: Bartlett Tree Experts offers a full range of tree services, including tree pruning and removal, stump grinding, pest and disease management, prescription soil care, plant and soil sampling, cabling, lightning protection, and root invigoration. The company also offers tree risk assessments and tree and shrub management plans. Estimates are free.
Company History: Bartlett Tree Experts was established in 1907 and has since grown to serve customers across the US, UK, Ireland, and Canada.
Distinctions: Bartlett maintains memberships with industry organizations, including the International Society of Arboriculture, the Tree Care Industry Association, and the Georgia Arborist Association.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms, and are background checked.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer planting services.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified
6th year as a Best
• Water damage restoration
• Water extraction
• Structural drying
• Mold remediation
• Smoke damage restoration
• Fire damage restoration
• Carpet removal and cleaning
• Odor removal
• Reconstruction services
• Personal property packing, evaluation, and restoration
• Damage from a storm, fire, or burst pipes can be dangerous and cause serious problems. 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.
Companies performing construction services in this category are required to hold a Contractor License issued by the Georgia Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors.
“Our success relies on the satisfaction of you, our customer. We treat every job as if it were our own home and every customer with honesty and respect. We have assembled a great team who share our philosophy. Legacy is locally owned and operated, and as the owner, I am always accessible.” David Abbey | Owner
Services Offered: Legacy Restoration Services provides 24-hour water extraction, structural drying, content pack-out and cleaning, mold remediation, sewage cleanup, and decontamination services. Mold inspections and estimates are available for a fee. Legacy provides insurance carrier-approved computerized estimates and invoices. Legacy also offers a complete line of interior repair services.
Warranty: Legacy Restoration Services offers up to a two-year workmanship warranty.
Company History: Starting in 1999, owner David Abbey has worked in the emergency services industry for 25+ years and oversees every job.
Distinctions: Owner David Abbey is IICRC certified and is a licensed general contractor. Legacy Restoration Services is an IICRC Certified Firm.
Services Not Offered: Roof and exterior repairs are not offered.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Not
“I began my career in the insurance industry as a claims adjuster. I began working at ARS because I saw an opportunity to provide a higher level of service to customers experiencing a disaster in their home. We work closely with homeowners and their insurance companies to ensure they receive the care and coverage they deserve.” John Yancey | Co-owner
Services Offered: ARS Restoration offers turn-key water damage mitigation services, including full reconstruction. Additional services include sanitization, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and tile and grout cleaning. ARS provides 24/7 emergency service. Estimates for water damage-related work are free.
Warranty: The company offers a customer satisfaction guarantee and a 12-month workmanship warranty.
Company History: ARS was founded in 1986.
Distinctions: Owner John Yancey is a licensed insurance claims adjuster and IICRC certified. ARS is an IICRC Certified Firm, a winner of a 2024 Super Service Award, and a winner of the Contractor Connection Golden Hammer Award.
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified
3rd year as a Best Pick
• Basement waterproofing
• Foundation waterproofing
• Moisture and humidity control systems
• Interior and exterior drainage systems
• Crawl space sealing
Foundation cracks should be sealed. Cement block walls and mortar joints are susceptible to leakage and should be sealed and waterproofed.
• 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. Hydrostatic pressure can be caused by poor grading, 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 water doesn’t drain from saturated soil and instead seeps 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.
• Drainage systems can be installed around the exterior or interior perimeter of your house. Interior drainage system installation usually means that the basement or crawl space floor will be dug up to create trenches for the drain lines. Waterproofing experts know how to do this efficiently while minimizing the mess.
• Your contractor might recommend the injection method as a fix for foundation cracks. This method seals foundation cracks with an epoxy or polyurethane material.
• If your waterproofing system includes a sump pump, be sure to have it inspected and maintained annually. Sump pumps do not work without a power source. If you have frequent power outages, ask your contractor about a battery-backup sump pump.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“AquaGuard provides peace of mind for its customers, its employees, and the communities it serves. It specializes in providing sensible and permanent solutions for waterproofing, foundation, and concrete support. AquaGuard is a Groundworks company, the nation’s leading foundation services company.” Tom DiGregorio | Founder
Services Offered: AquaGuard provides customized basement waterproofing and crawl space repair solutions with a variety of drainage, encapsulation, sump pump, and dehumidification products and systems. The company also offers foundation and concrete repair and gutter installation.
Warranty: Nationally backed, transferable warranties are offered for most products. Ask for details.
Company History: AquaGuard was founded in 1995.
Distinctions: Founder Tom DiGregorio was named the Metro Atlanta Chamber’s 2015 Business Person of the Year, and AquaGuard was named a 2019 Top 25 Small Business of the Year by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. The company won a 2024 Super Service Award. AquaGuard is part of Groundworks Companies.
Employee Information: The local company employs a team of 250+ professionals.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Not Required
“American Crawlspace Solutions takes a ‘needs-based’ approach toward solving your crawlspace, basement, foundation, or mold problem. We won’t try to oversell you. You have a choice when it comes to who you allow into your home, and we sincerely appreciate our customers! We strive for fast, friendly service at an affordable price.” Jeremy Ross | Owner
Services Offered: American Crawlspace Solutions provides basement and crawlspace waterproofing and encapsulation, crawlspace mold removal, foundation repair, sagging floor repair, and concrete lifting and stabilization services. Financing options are available.
Warranty: Most services include a life-of-the-structure warranty.
Company History: The local, family-owned-and-operated company was founded in 2011 by college friends John Harman and Jeremy Ross.
Employee Information: Employees drive marked vehicles, wear uniforms, and undergo drug testing.
Additional Information: American Crawlspace Solutions works with products from AprilAire, Ashland Pump, and Prime Resins.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer mold removal in living spaces, concrete removal, or concrete replacement.
4.8 out of 5
License(s) Not Required
Verified
Verified
“Atlanta Basement Systems proudly serves as the exclusive authorized partner for Contractor Nation (also owned by Larry Janesky) across the North Atlanta Metro and North Georgia markets. One of only 30 partners spanning a network of more than 350 of the world’s best contractors within the Contractor Nation framework.” Josh Sulfridge | General Manager
Services Offered: Atlanta Basement Systems offers a wide range of waterproofing services, including basement waterproofing systems. The company also offers humidity and mold control, sump pump and discharge line services, air purification and dehumidification, crawl space drainage and encapsulation, wall settlement piering solutions, wall stabilization solutions, and crawl space floor joist repair and leveling.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime transferable warranty on full perimeter basement waterproofing systems, crawl space drainage and encapsulation systems, and complete piering and wall stabilization systems.
Company History: The locally owned-and-operated company was established in 2021.
Employee Information: Employees receive continuous, extensive training and development through local, regional, and national training initiatives.
4.6 out of 5
“Since 1958, ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing has been providing five-star customer experiences in basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, foundation repair, and mold removal. Our money-back guarantee and life-of-thestructure warranty, unique in the industry, offer the ultimate protection to homeowners.” Todd Prosan | President
Services Offered: ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing specializes in basement waterproofing, crawl space encapsulation, foundation repair, and mold removal. The company also provides free estimates.
Warranty: A life-of-the-structure warranty is offered in addition to guaranteed results. Warranty is subject to terms and conditions.
Company History: The local and regional, family-owned company was founded in 1958.
Distinctions: ‘58 Foundations & Waterproofing was ranked on the 2022 Inc. 5000 list of Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America.
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and are background checked.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer poured concrete foundations; crawl space cleanouts; or crawl space-to-basement conversions.
4.9 out of 5
Not Required Verified
7th year as a Best Pick
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7th year as a Best Pick
■ Critter Control 678-487-2970
5th year as a Best Pick
• Wildlife removal
• Wildlife management
• Exclusion services and repairs
• Humane removal and control of birds, rats, squirrels, snakes, bats, opossums, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, foxes, gophers, and more
• Dead animal removal
• Space deodorization
• Insulation removal and replacement
• General pest control
• Wild animals enter your home looking for shelter and safety, and they don’t take kindly to being evicted. They may bite or scratch out of fear. Always call a professional to handle the issue. Wildlife removal specialists know how to safely and humanely remove nuisance animals.
• 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 elsewhere.
• 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. Your technician will find the pest’s point of entry, identify other potential points of entry, and recommend ways to prevent pest reentry.
• Exclusion work often includes tasks like installing a chimney cap, sealing gaps at the fascia and around vents and pipes, and patching siding holes. Also be sure to trim any tree limbs overhanging your roof and prune shrubs that grow too close to the house. Move bird feeders as far away from your house as possible. Don’t give birds reasons to get close to your house.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category.
Scan for additional educational content
“Since 1970, North Fulton Pest Solutions (NFPS) has delivered superior-quality pest control service, customer service, and peace of mind to our clients. We truly appreciate the opportunity to become your pest control company and a trusted steward of your home.” R. Blake Edwards | Owner & President
Services Offered: North Fulton Pest Solutions (NFPS) offers humane wildlife removal and exclusion services; environmentally responsible pest, rodent, mosquito, and termite control services; gutter protection; and attic and subfloor insulation services.
Warranty: NFPS offers lifetime renewable guarantees for full wildlife exclusions, guarantees for annual pest and mosquito control programs, and unlimited damage repair guarantees for qualifying termite treatments.
Company History: The 55-year-old, family-owned business is led by an Associate Certified Entomologist who is the nation’s second and the state of Georgia’s first Public Health Entomology Certificate Holder.
Distinctions: The company is a member of the National Pest Management Association and the Georgia Pest Control Association and maintains a Commercial Trapping License and Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators Permit Holder on staff.
“We are a second-generation, family-owned company that started with one client and one employee in 1975. We’ve never merged with or acquired another company and have grown to 175+ employees and 135+ vehicles on the road daily. That growth is due to our investment in our employees, clients, and technology we use every day.” Rodger
Breda
| Founder
Services Offered: BREDA Pest Management offers wildlife removal services including trapping, entry point sealing, and disinfection of critter waste. The company also offers quarterly pest control, mosquito control, and termite control. BREDA provides Official Georgia Wood Infestation Inspection Reports for homeowners refinancing or selling a home.
Warranty: BREDA offers lifetime renewable warranties for wildlife control.
Company History: BREDA was founded in 1975.
Distinctions: The company is certified by the Infraspection Institute in the theory and application of infrared thermal imaging equipment. BREDA is also a certified installer of borate loose-fill insulation, which is a pest control insulation that can only be installed by licensed professionals. The company is a member of the Georgia Pest Control Association and is the official pest control company of the Georgia Bulldogs.
4.8 out of 5
Not Required
“Satisfying homeowners for over 40 years, Critter Control resolves nuisance wildlife problems. We strive to provide the highest quality of customer service while ensuring you and your family’s safety. Our services focus on getting rid of nuisance wildlife, repairing damage, then keeping them from re-entering your home or business.” Company Representative
Services Offered: Critter Control handles nuisance wildlife that includes, but is not limited to, flying and gray squirrels, raccoons, opossums, rats, mice, armadillos, snakes, bats, birds, moles, beavers, and skunks. In addition, the company treats for bees, yellow jackets, wasps, and hornets. Critter Control performs safe and humane removal of animals and wildlife, preventative recurring services, insulation replacement, dead animal removal, and exclusion services.
Company History: With over 100 offices in the US and Canada, Critter Control is the nation’s leading wildlife control company and has been resolving wildlife issues for customers for over 40 years.
Employee Information: Employees must pass background checks and drug tests. The company’s technicians wear uniforms and drive marked vehicles.
Services Not Offered: The company does not provide services for domestic animals, termites, or bedbugs.
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
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25th
14th year as a
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12th year as a Best Pick
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5th year as a Best Pick ■
2nd year as a Best Pick
COMMON WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT SERVICES
• Door installation and replacement
• Window installation and replacement
• Energy-efficient windows and doors
• Impact or storm windows and doors
• Vinyl, fiberglass, steel, aluminum, wood, and engineered wood windows
• Sliding glass, patio, and French doors
• Entryway and interior doors
• Wood, insulated steel, and fiberglass doors
TOP CONSUMER TIPS
• Nearly one-third of all residential energy loss occurs through 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“Our employees make the difference. The crews are in-house, know what they’re doing, and are supervised every day. Our sales approach is low key and simple: ‘Here is a fair price using the best materials and workmen, and we’ll keep every promise we make.’” Mark
Ashe | President
Services Offered: Echols offers a variety of windows and doors. Echols also provides residential and commercial roofing; siding; carpentry repairs; deck rebuilds; synthetic wood shake/slate, true slate, flat, and metal roofs; gutters; most exterior improvements; and basement finishing. An in-house insurance specialist handles roof storm damage claims. Echols can provide an interior designer for project color and material consultations.
Warranty: The company offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
Company History: Frank Echols founded the company in 1960. It is currently run by Frank’s stepson, Mark Ashe, who began working for Echols in 1973.
Employee Information: Many employees have been with the company for more than 20 years.
Services Not Offered: The company does not repair broken glass or existing doors and windows.
Minimum Job: Echols has a seven-window minimum.
4.9 out of 5
License(s) Not Required
“Our goal is to make your home more appealing, enhance its character, and add protection and energy efficiency. Understanding what products work, what types of windows and doors are the best, and how to install them to ensure optimal performance and longevity is what makes us the best at what we do.” Mauricio & Fabiola Jaimes | Owners
Services Offered: Davis Window & Door specializes in window and door sales and installation.
Warranty: The company honors manufacturers’ warranties, including lifetime and limited warranties depending on the product.
Company History: Since its founding in 1972, quality and service have been the company’s main drivers.
Distinctions: Davis Window & Door is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm, a GuildQuality Guildmember, and a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.
Services Not Offered: The company does not repair broken glass or perform general repairs of doors and windows.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Trade
Not Required
Verified
Verified
“Our goal is to help our customers by increasing the value of their home. For that reason, we always use
paint, roofing, windows, siding, and gutters. We operate by the Golden Rule, so I only offer people the
that I would use in my own home. We’re in the business of doing quality work.”
Scott Nelson | Owner
Services Offered: Nelson Exteriors offers fiberglass, PVC-clad, and vinyl windows, residential and commercial interior and exterior painting, gutter replacement, deck installation and resurfacing, roofing, HardiePlank siding, and carpentry.
Warranty: The company provides written warranties on all products and labor.
Company History: Nelson Exteriors started in 1977.
Distinctions: The company is a licensed contractor in Georgia, an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm, and a Georgia Certified Lead Renovation Firm. Nelson Exteriors is also a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor and employs a Simonton Windows Master Consultant and a Therma-Tru Doors certified installer.
Services Not Offered: The company does not offer roof or gutter repair or repairs to window or door glass.
Minimum Job: A $1,000 minimum is required.
“As a second-generation owner, I take pride in satisfying customers by providing them with custom-detailed weatherizing and exterior remodeling. Continued growth has been our blessing, and my partner, T.C. Boothe, and I have the industry experience to help you invest in the future of your home.”
Jerry Hardeman, Jr. | Owner
Services Offered: DuraMAX Siding & Windows installs insulated windows and entry doors, fiber cement and solid core insulated composite siding, fiber cement and vinyl soffit and fascia, seamless aluminum gutters and gutter systems, and roofing.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime workmanship warranty and honors all manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: DuraMAX Siding & Windows was founded in 1970 by Jerry Hardeman, Sr., and the company remains family owned and operated by Jerry Hardeman, Jr., and T.C. Boothe.
Additional Information: The company carries Slocomb and ProVia windows and doors, James Hardie siding and soffit, TruGuard gutter protection systems, and GAF roofing.
Services Not Offered: The company does not repair window glass or roofs.
4.9 out of 5 Trade
Not Required Verified
“In business since 1998, SuperiorPRO has always focused on providing customers with quality craftsmanship, superior service, and the highest-quality installations per manufacturers’ recommended techniques. With the SuperiorPRO advantage, you get the job done right the first time!” Irwin Weitz | Founder & Owner
Services Offered: SuperiorPRO, LLC offers wood, vinyl, PVC, and fiberglass window and door replacement. The company also offers interior and exterior painting, fiber cement and vinyl siding installation, stucco sealing and repair, roof replacement, gutter replacement, and insulation.
Warranty: The company offers craftsmanship warranties and honors all manufacturers’ warranties.
Company History: Irwin Weitz founded SuperiorPRO in 1998 and remains a hands-on owner.
Distinctions: SuperiorPRO is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Remodeler and earned a spot on Remodeling Magazine’s Top 550 list.
Additional Information: The company offers products from a variety of brands, including Sherwin-Williams, James Hardie, and Atlas.
Services Not Offered: SuperiorPRO does not repair windows or replace glass.
Not
“We are a true family business. I created All Four Seasons in 1999. In 2011, I brought my family into the business. We strive to treat our customers and employees like family. We don’t just put our values of honesty, teamwork, and customer service in a handbook; we live them every day. We want to make you a customer for life.” Dan Watkins | Founder/Owner
Services Offered: All Four Seasons offers vinyl windows with 33 exterior paint finishes; 17 glass options, including 6 privacy glass options; 5 tint options; and 5 grid options. The company also offers entry doors, sliding glass doors, garage doors, and garage door openers. All Four Seasons encloses all openings in a home.
Warranty: The company offers a lifetime warranty on most windows. All windows carry a lifetime labor warranty.
Company History: Dan Watkins founded All Four Seasons in 1999.
Distinctions: All Four Seasons has thousands of reviews with a 4.9 Google rating.
Services Not Offered: All Four Seasons does not replace broken glass in windows installed by a different company.
Minimum Job: The company requires a minimum of five windows.
5.0 out of 5
Not Required Verified
■ Total Home Care of Georgia, Inc.
7th year as a Best Pick
• Interior and exterior window cleaning
• Window screen repair and replacement
• Home exterior cleaning
• Exterior light fixture cleaning and bulb replacement
• Washing windows by hand allows for detailed work. The cleaner will remove each window’s screen and wash and dry the window glass and sill. Screens should be wiped clean.
• Water-fed pole cleaning is another common window cleaning method. It’s quicker than handwashing 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. The pole has a brush at the end to scrub the windows and loosen and remove dirt and debris. Each window should be rinsed with plain water to wash away any remaining dirt.
• Window cleaning is often quoted over the phone based on the number and style of your windows. When the technician arrives and evaluates the job in person, he or she adjusts the price accordingly. Once the technician gives you a firm quote, that price should not change unless you
change the details of the job or request extra services. If you need to change the job’s scope after work has begun, be sure that you’re clear on any cost adjustments.
• Professional window cleaners typically use plain, purified water instead of harsh cleaning solutions. Purified water doesn’t leave spots behind on the window panes, and it doesn’t contain chemicals that could harm landscaping, kids, or pets. Stubborn debris is usually removed by hand using a scraper.
• The industry’s professional organization is the International Window Cleaning Association (IWCA). IWCA member contractors have access to extra training in industry-specific safety methods. Because of the heights involved, there is the potential for worker injury or accidental property damage. For your peace of mind, the IWCA recommends checking that your window cleaner has liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.
• Window cleaning is a popular springtime and pre-winter holiday chore, so you may have difficulty getting a quick appointment if you call during these busy times of year. Plan ahead and be flexible with your preferred service window, if possible.
The state of Georgia does not issue or require a trade license for companies in this service category. Scan for additional educational content
“From our most basic services to the most advanced, we make sure our customers are happy with the cleaning we provide. Your complete satisfaction with every job is our mission.” John Stembel | Owner
Services Offered: Total Home Care of Georgia, Inc., offers window cleaning services for residential and commercial customers. Additional services include pressure washing, gutter cleaning, downspout flushing, gutter repair, and chandelier cleaning. The company offers free in-home quotes.
Warranty: Total Home Care of Georgia offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee. If a customer is not satisfied with the work, the company will return to address any concerns.
Company History: The family-owned company was established in 1984.
Distinctions: Owner John Stembel is a member of the International Window Cleaning Association (IWCA).
Employee Information: Employees wear uniforms, drive marked vehicles, and undergo background checks and drug testing.
Minimum Job: A $150 minimum is required.
4.9 out of 5 Trade License(s) Not Required
Verified General Liability Insurance
Verified Workers’ Comp
Best Pick Guaranteed
“I will keep using the Best Pick Reports guidebook. I’d give it 5 out of 5.”
–James G. | Sugar Hill, GA
• Best Pick Reports, LLC, is a free reference for local homeowners that has informed home service buying decisions since 1997.
• Our mission is to create meaningful connections between service-based businesses and consumers by recognizing the best local providers and sharing these names with homeowners via free, easy to use, and trustworthy resources.
• We track businesses across dozens of home service categories and showcase Certified Best Pick companies in our semiannual report, which is posted online and mailed to homes in metropolitan communities across the nation.
• Our qualification process incorporates annual review analysis to ensure every Best Pick company maintains a high quality of workmanship and customer service.
• Our report features companies that have consistently received positive reviews from their customers, so you can be confident that they’ve been vetted by homeowners like you. We also verify that companies in our guide hold proper licenses and insurance.
• Companies cannot buy a good rating; they must earn it by having many satisfied customers and good reviews. Our extensive research makes us the most reliable resource for finding reputable home service companies.
• We know we’re not the only organization that rates home service providers. So what makes us different? In short, it’s our commitment to identifying the best companies through ongoing, verifiable research.
• We rely on a combination of customer surveys, Google reviews, proper insurance and licenses, and company financial data to inform our ratings.
• We’ve spent over 25 years refining the way we do research so that our ratings remain exceptionally reliable.
• Another way we’re different: companies cannot buy their way into our report. We do not sell advertising space, improved ratings, or better placement in our report; instead, companies are listed in order based on their longevity as a Certified Best Pick company.
• Inclusion is by invitation alone, and that invitation is extended only if a company has met our strict qualifying criteria.
• In the same way that homeowners benefit from Best Pick Reports, qualifying companies also benefit from the promotion, which creates a win-win environment for the company and potential customer.
• Most participating companies pay a fee each time they receive a new customer from Best Pick Reports, though some companies instead pay a percent of the completed job amount. These payments cover the cost of our vetting process and allow us to distribute our publication at no cost to homeowners.
• For each Best Pick Reports publication, we conduct independent consumer satisfaction surveys every year with homeowners who had firsthand experience with home service providers. If needed, we also analyze Google reviews.
• Our internal surveying is an independent process conducted through our own phone surveying platform or through our sister research company GuildQuality, an industry leader in consumer satisfaction surveying.
• We develop a company’s rating according to the survey and review data we have about that company spanning the past three years; the company’s financial standing; and proper insurance and licenses, which we verify through the issuing bodies.
• Every Best Pick company must maintain extremely high satisfaction rates. At least 80 percent of a company’s customer responses through in-house surveying must be positive (on a scale of 1-5, a positive experience is a rating of 4 or 5). If Google reviews are referenced, the company must have an overall 4.0 or greater rating over the past three years.
• Once the research process is complete, companies excelling in each category have the option of participating in the Best Pick program, authorizing us to include their name in our semiannual publication and on our website.
• Companies new to Best Pick Reports must meet our qualification standards and have a minimum of one year of service in the book area or a strong franchise history.
• Companies must maintain the same satisfaction rates every year after qualifying to continue their inclusion in the Best Pick program.
• The exact review count spanning the last three years of review data for each company can be found to the left of the company’s profile on bestpickreports.com.
• When we list a company as a Best Pick, we absolutely believe it to be the case, and that belief is continuously confirmed by the enormously positive experiences that homeowners report.
• The Best Pick Guarantee provides homeowners with security and confidence when hiring Best Pick companies, which are the best of the best; however, we also know that no company is perfect.
• In the event that the work of a Best Pick company is unsatisfactory, the Best Pick Guarantee gives registered homeowners the ability to seek remediation in the form of additional service to resolve the issue and, when appropriate, financial restitution.
• Throughout the remediation process, we will act as third-party mediator, advocating for a satisfactory solution for all parties. In the event that an issue requires monetary reimbursement, we will determine the amount and the method of the guarantee payment, up to $2,500.
• To register and see full terms and conditions, please visit bestpickreports.com/guarantee.
• Prior to publication, we verify general liability insurance and, when required by the state, workers’ compensation insurance for all Best Pick companies.
• We also verify trade licenses required by the state by referring directly to the appropriate state authority.
• If a company does not have the proper licenses or insurance, it is not eligible to be a Best Pick participant—even if its reviews justify such designation.
• If you complete a customer satisfaction survey, your responses may appear on the company’s public profile.
• Names are listed in a first name, last initial format.
• We will not share your specific survey response information or contact information with any party outside of the company for which you completed a survey without your consent or unless directed to do so by a court of law.
• There are many reasons why a company may not be listed in our report. It is possible the company did not receive a good rating, does not conduct a considerable amount of business in the geographic area, or chose not to participate in the Best Pick program.
• We may also not be familiar with all companies in a metro area and would be happy to consider a nomination. If you would like to nominate your favorite service provider, please visit bestpickreports.com/ nominate-a-company.
• If a specific category is not listed in Best Pick Reports, you can visit our blog at bestpickreports.com/blog to learn about various home projects, tips on hiring a contractor, and more.
Regular maintenance is a reality of home ownership. And while you might be able to handle some things on your own, other tasks are best left to the pros. But finding reliable help when you need it is easier said than done.
Check out our simple tips for finding the best service professional for any home-related need.
Ask for recommendations.
The easiest way to start is to ask neighbors, family members, and friends for their recommendations. Word-of-mouth recommendations speak volumes about a company’s work and reputation. After all, you’re hearing from people with first-hand experience!
Search social media.
Social media sites shouldn’t be your only source of information when it comes to finding a good contractor, but they can be a valuable resource.
Search for the companies on your list and check their social media feeds for customer testimonials. You might also find photographs of the company’s workmanship.
Research your choices.
Look online for the following about each contractor on your list:
• Qualifications
• Certifications
• Licenses and bonding
• Insurance
• Areas of specialization
• Professionalism
• Assurance & guarantees
Most of this information is available online, usually on the company’s website. For details you can’t immediately locate, a quick phone call can usually help fill in any gaps.
Use a verified directory and online reviews.
Look for unbiased customer reviews in independent business directories like Five Star Rated. Online home improvement forums and review websites are helpful, too.
Avoid sites that let companies buy highly rated reviews. This practice is unethical, but it does happen. Watch for several extremely positive reviews posted on the same day following a negative review. Lots of good reviews that sound similar are also a red flag.
Doing all of this takes time, but when you’re planning a home improvement project, it’s well worth it. But if you’re in a time crunch, a trusted company directory like Five Star Rated is priceless.
With a verified company directory, you have all the information you need to make an informed decision at a glance: the company’s contact information, the services they offer, and testimonials from verified customers.
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.
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.
Get your home ready for chilly evenings and falling leaves.
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.
Consider installing gutter guards or screens to keep debris from becoming a problem as leaves begin to fall.
Inspect and clean fireplace and chimney
Pest-proof home in anticipation of colder weather
Inspect and clean furnace
Check air filters for cleaning or replacement
Set ceiling fan blades to run clockwise
Check insulation levels in attic and basement or crawl space
Organize closets and garage
Seed lawn, fertilize cool-season grass, and apply pre-emergent herbicide
Check windows and doors for gaps; caulk or weatherstrip as needed
Prune trees and remove dead branches
Check roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles
Clean gutters and downspouts
Wash windows
Shut down pool and sprinkler system
Remove leaves from and clean outside structures such as awnings, walkways, and storage sheds
Disclaimer: If you live in an area that experiences extremely warm or cold temperatures, consult with a local Best Pick for customized home maintenance suggestions.
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.
Frozen pipes can burst and create significant water damage as they thaw.
Concrete and foundation cracks can worsen through the winter freeze/thaw cycles. Keep a careful eye on them and call an expert for help.
Lubricate garage door and check door alignment
Check bathrooms and basements for mold and moisture
Check air filters for cleaning or replacement
Inspect electrical system
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Clean refrigerator coils
Make sure family members know winter storm plan
Insulate exposed pipes and spigots
Check for cracks in driveway, home foundation, and patio
Check for leaning trees near home
Inspect landscaping and prepare for spring
Inspect fence and replace loose or rotten boards as well as rusty or worn gate hardware
Disclaimer: If you live in an area that experiences extremely warm or cold temperatures, consult with a local Best Pick for customized home maintenance suggestions.
Spring clean like a pro to get ready for sunshine and warm weather.
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.
Inspect the roof from both the inside and outside to check for evidence of leaks and missing or damaged shingles.
Clean out junk and debris from house and yard
Clean carpets and upholstery
Clean air ducts
Check air filters for cleaning or replacement
Set ceiling fan blades to run counterclockwise
Scalp lawn
Aerate lawn, fertilize cool-season grass, and apply pre-emergent herbicide
Mow lawn at least once a week
Inspect for termites
Check roof for leaks and damaged shingles
Clean gutters and downspouts
Start up sprinkler system and pool
Clean outside structures such as awnings, walkways, and storage sheds
Wash windows
Clean HVAC condenser
Disclaimer: If you live in an area that experiences extremely warm or cold temperatures, consult with a local Best Pick for customized home maintenance suggestions.
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.
Preventative tree pruning reduces wind resistance, which may decrease limb loss during heavy storms.
Pressure washing extends the life of outdoor features and keeps your home’s exterior looking its best.
Lubricate garage door and check door alignment
Inspect basement or crawl space for leaks, standing water, and mold
Check plumbing for leaks, rust, and damaged pipes
Drain and refill water heater
Check air filters for cleaning or replacement
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Test GFCI outlets
Clean refrigerator coils
Fertilize warm-season grass
Water lawn an average of one inch of water per week
Mow lawn every seven to ten days
Inspect trees for dead branches as well as pest and disease issues
Pressure wash siding and fence
Touch up paint
Restain or reseal deck
Disclaimer: If you live in an area that experiences extremely warm or cold temperatures, consult with a local Best Pick for customized home maintenance suggestions.
The majority of our Best Pick companies are identified through our due diligence research. We also accept nominations from homeowners and companies. All companies must qualify through our rigorous vetting process to be awarded the Best Pick status and invited to the Best Pick program. A company cannot buy its way in. Because of our qualification method and invitation-only certification process, you can be confident that every Best Pick has been rated as exceptional in quality and customer service.
We develop a company’s rating based on review and survey data; the company’s financial standing; and proper licenses and insurance. Every Best Pick company must maintain extremely high satisfaction rates. At least 80 percent of a company’s customer responses through in-house surveying must be positive (on a scale of 1-5, a positive experience is a rating of 4 or 5). If Google reviews are referenced, the company must have an overall 4.0 or greater rating over the past three years. Only qualified companies are invited into the Best Pick program.
To send Best Pick Reports to the areas that our companies service, we obtain basic homeowner information like name and address from publicly available sources such as county records and property data providers, similar to how sites like whitepages. com or zillow.com obtain data. We
take your privacy very seriously and will never share or sell this data.
The rigorous nature of our qualification process means that many companies do not qualify. Since all Best Pick companies must requalify each year, it is also possible for a company to lose its Best Pick status if it fails to meet our standards during our annual qualification cycle.
A particular company may not be listed in Best Pick Reports for a variety of reasons. It is possible the company did not receive a good rating, does not conduct a considerable amount of business in the geographic area, does not have the required insurance and licenses, or chose not to participate in the Best Pick program. Additionally, we may not be familiar with every company in a market, in which case we’d be happy to consider a nomination.
Companies that meet our requirements have the option of participating in the Best Pick program. Those that choose to participate receive the designation and authorize us to include their name in our semiannual publication and on our website. These companies pay a fee that covers the cost of our qualification research and allows us to distribute our publication at no cost to homeowners. Companies cannot buy their way in. Participation in the Best Pick program is by invitation only and is completely voluntary.
We’ve been matching top-quality companies with homeowners since 1997, and our research shows that the Best Pick companies we recommend have extremely high satisfaction rates from their customers. Through Best Pick Reports, you can also access useful information on home repairs and home service companies, so you can be educated when reaching out to companies for your next project.
All Best Pick companies are covered by our Best Pick Guarantee. Register for free at bestpickreports.com/guarantee, and we will step in and mediate a solution if you have any problems with the quality of work provided by your Best Pick. If no agreeable solution can be achieved, we will refund your purchase up to $2,500. Read full terms at bestpickreports.com/terms.
To ensure we’re matching homeowners in our service areas with Best Pick companies, we use tracking numbers in our publications. Also, when you call a company from our book or website, the company will know that you’re calling through Best Pick Reports due to this unique number.
Phone: 877-906-7575
Mail: 225 Ottley Dr NE #200 Atlanta, GA 30324
Email: helpdesk@bestpickreports.com
Best Pick Reports is a free, annual guide that features independently qualified and recommended local home service providers. With Best Pick Reports, you receive free, objective, third-party data that enables you to identify top-quality companies servicing your neighborhood.
For more information, please visit www.bestpickreports.com
Our sister company GuildQuality is the building and home improvement industry’s leader in third-party customer satisfaction surveying. For each Best Pick Reports publication, GuildQuality conducts extensive consumer satisfaction research to review home service providers, and we use the data collected to provide testimonials and objective, third-party ratings of companies in dozens of categories.
For more information, please visit www.guildquality.com.
Our parent company, EverCommerce, is the nation’s leading service commerce platform, supporting the success of B2B technology and service companies as well as the tens of thousands of home improvement businesses they serve across the country.
For more information, please visit www.evercommerce.com
Best Pick Reports Staff
Operations
Christopher Brady
Lauren Barron
Patrick Recchia
Ryan LaMotte
Latasha Roberson
Production
Bekah Goudy
Cate Lightburn
Research & Qualification
Amber Davis
Brittany Mahaffey
Malone Walker
Editors
Julia Mann
Designer
Omar Ghuzlan
Your Service Team
Customer Experience
Sarah Blackington
Victoria Cheshire
Account Managers
Adam Greene
Amanda McClellan
Brandy Coble
Kaley Whitenton
Rachel Bowers
Homeowner Support
Bria Claiborne
877-906-7575
helpdesk@bestpickreports.com
