We are a locally owned and operated company with over 22 years of industry experience. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of Home Improvement services that are customizable to each individual project. We specialize in handyman/carpentry work and a variety of related service and repair projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!
"Great service and good work!"
Franklin F on February 2023
We are a locally owned and operated company with over 22 years of industry experience. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of Home Improvement services that are customizable to each individual project. We specialize in handyman/carpentry work and a variety of related service and repair projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!
"Great service and good work!"
Franklin F on February 2023
We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"The owner is very professional , the gave me a great price and the quality of work is amazing"
Eli G on February 2024
We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"The owner is very professional , the gave me a great price and the quality of work is amazing"
Eli G on February 2024
Betterliving sunroom of the Capital area is sub division of Deck Soldier - family own business, over 14 years we spetialise in Deck building , restoration and screen porch constractions. December 2023 is time when we get opportunity to be come dealer for one of the best Sunroom manufactory -Betterliving sunrooms. Beginning of 2024 was education time. We spent 2 weeks with crew leaders on factory in PA - learning new materials and installation process. Another 2 weeks our sales team learned history of 70 years company and saw how every detail of sunroom is made, learn why Betterliving Sunrooms is best quality sunrooms on market. We proud that we build over 30 Sunrooms and screen porches in 2024 and all our customers happy with their final rooms. We sustain our business on quality and integrity. We look forward to earning your business -sunrooms (3 or 4 season , vinyl or aluminum) -screen rooms -porches -deck building -deck remodeling -deck restoration( washing, staining) -paver patio/retaining walls
"Deck Soldier (aka Betterliving) did a fantastic job of powerwashing and then sealing my deck, installing new handrails, and staining the swingset in the yard. Very pleased with their work and their professionalism."
Andrew H on October 2024
Betterliving sunroom of the Capital area is sub division of Deck Soldier - family own business, over 14 years we spetialise in Deck building , restoration and screen porch constractions. December 2023 is time when we get opportunity to be come dealer for one of the best Sunroom manufactory -Betterliving sunrooms. Beginning of 2024 was education time. We spent 2 weeks with crew leaders on factory in PA - learning new materials and installation process. Another 2 weeks our sales team learned history of 70 years company and saw how every detail of sunroom is made, learn why Betterliving Sunrooms is best quality sunrooms on market. We proud that we build over 30 Sunrooms and screen porches in 2024 and all our customers happy with their final rooms. We sustain our business on quality and integrity. We look forward to earning your business -sunrooms (3 or 4 season , vinyl or aluminum) -screen rooms -porches -deck building -deck remodeling -deck restoration( washing, staining) -paver patio/retaining walls
"Deck Soldier (aka Betterliving) did a fantastic job of powerwashing and then sealing my deck, installing new handrails, and staining the swingset in the yard. Very pleased with their work and their professionalism."
Andrew H on October 2024
First Impression Hardscapes is the premier hardscape artisan in the D.C. metro area, serving Maryland and Washington D.C. We take a custom approach to designing your driveway, walkway, patio, or pool deck in elegant flagstone or stunning, durable pavers. First Impression’s will turn your hardscape fantasies into a First Impression reality! - OUR MISSION: To provide lifestyle changing hardscapes that are aesthetically pleasing, durable, and have eternal value. - OUR VISION: To be the leading hardscape installer in Maryland and Washington D.C. by becoming home and property owners’ first choice for all of their hardscape needs. - OUR HISTORY: First Impression Hardscapes has over 20 years combined experience in serving the D.C. metro area. Our quality of construction is second to none, and we also pride ourselves in having superior customer relations. All of our crews are completely “in house”; we do not use sub-contractors. We are licensed and insured for all of your hardscape needs. No matter how large or small, we are pleased to transform your hardscape fantasies into a First Impression reality! -- Additional email: info@firsthardscapes.com.
"Prompt service. We are very happy with the quality of work. We would hire them again."
Jesse T on May 2025
First Impression Hardscapes is the premier hardscape artisan in the D.C. metro area, serving Maryland and Washington D.C. We take a custom approach to designing your driveway, walkway, patio, or pool deck in elegant flagstone or stunning, durable pavers. First Impression’s will turn your hardscape fantasies into a First Impression reality! - OUR MISSION: To provide lifestyle changing hardscapes that are aesthetically pleasing, durable, and have eternal value. - OUR VISION: To be the leading hardscape installer in Maryland and Washington D.C. by becoming home and property owners’ first choice for all of their hardscape needs. - OUR HISTORY: First Impression Hardscapes has over 20 years combined experience in serving the D.C. metro area. Our quality of construction is second to none, and we also pride ourselves in having superior customer relations. All of our crews are completely “in house”; we do not use sub-contractors. We are licensed and insured for all of your hardscape needs. No matter how large or small, we are pleased to transform your hardscape fantasies into a First Impression reality! -- Additional email: info@firsthardscapes.com.
"Prompt service. We are very happy with the quality of work. We would hire them again."
Jesse T on May 2025
BasementRemodeling.com / Basement Masters - licensed and insured, award winning Basement Remodeling and Finishing company. Highest rated basement renovation contractor in Maryland. Finished Basements are our specialty. We specialize in custom basement remodeling and finishing and other large-scale remodels. We offer free in home and over-the-phone estimate and consultation. Here at BasementRemodeling.com we believe that QUALITY AND EXCEPTIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP must always come along with AFFORDABILITY. keywords: finished basement basements remodeling.
"I hired Basementremodeling.com for the gutting and rebuilding of my entire basement on the recommendation of my next door neighbor, and they did a fantastic job. I had been looking at several contractors, and the professionalism and dedication of this firm was really impressive. Their planning and design team were top notch. Everything was transparent. The crews worked their hearts out, they were super polite and tidy, and their attention to detail, flexibility and willingness to work with me on last minute changes was superb. I'd hire basementremodelling.com again without question! Thanks guys!"
Dan L on May 2025
BasementRemodeling.com / Basement Masters - licensed and insured, award winning Basement Remodeling and Finishing company. Highest rated basement renovation contractor in Maryland. Finished Basements are our specialty. We specialize in custom basement remodeling and finishing and other large-scale remodels. We offer free in home and over-the-phone estimate and consultation. Here at BasementRemodeling.com we believe that QUALITY AND EXCEPTIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP must always come along with AFFORDABILITY. keywords: finished basement basements remodeling.
"I hired Basementremodeling.com for the gutting and rebuilding of my entire basement on the recommendation of my next door neighbor, and they did a fantastic job. I had been looking at several contractors, and the professionalism and dedication of this firm was really impressive. Their planning and design team were top notch. Everything was transparent. The crews worked their hearts out, they were super polite and tidy, and their attention to detail, flexibility and willingness to work with me on last minute changes was superb. I'd hire basementremodelling.com again without question! Thanks guys!"
Dan L on May 2025
James L. Graves Construction is a full service Builder/Re-modeler where "Quality without compromise" is our philosophy. We are an A rated Better Business Bureau Company, Angie's List Super Service Award Winner Every Year Since 2006. EPA Lead Safe Paint Certified Firm, Members of the National Association of Home Builders/Re-modelers, Maryland Home Builders Association, National Kitchen and Bath Association and an Approved Veterans Specially Adapted Housing Certified Builder. Each of our divisions operates under the same principle: You deserve a partner that has the expertise to guide you through every step of your project.
"Superb! My first remodeling experience. Jim Graves and his team flawlessly managed the entire process from estimate to design to demolition to "build". First rate team for every effort. Jim was engaged at every step of the way, and the foreman was experienced, hard-working, professional, and communicative. Honest, transparent & understandable pricing, and most of all - they know the work. Jim has over 40 years of experience, and it is evident in the pride he takes in his projects. Overall, great pros to work with. I would unhesitatingly use them again!"
Gregory W on June 2021
James L. Graves Construction is a full service Builder/Re-modeler where "Quality without compromise" is our philosophy. We are an A rated Better Business Bureau Company, Angie's List Super Service Award Winner Every Year Since 2006. EPA Lead Safe Paint Certified Firm, Members of the National Association of Home Builders/Re-modelers, Maryland Home Builders Association, National Kitchen and Bath Association and an Approved Veterans Specially Adapted Housing Certified Builder. Each of our divisions operates under the same principle: You deserve a partner that has the expertise to guide you through every step of your project.
"Superb! My first remodeling experience. Jim Graves and his team flawlessly managed the entire process from estimate to design to demolition to "build". First rate team for every effort. Jim was engaged at every step of the way, and the foreman was experienced, hard-working, professional, and communicative. Honest, transparent & understandable pricing, and most of all - they know the work. Jim has over 40 years of experience, and it is evident in the pride he takes in his projects. Overall, great pros to work with. I would unhesitatingly use them again!"
Gregory W on June 2021
OVER 100 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE AS YOU PATIO AND HARDSCAPE EXPERTS! SBC Outdoor Services was founded in 2015 by Brad Crist. Brad had over 15 years of experience in the industry and wanted to create a landscaping company that could hold true to the concept of “quality landscaping.” Ever since then we've been constantly growing as a high-end hardscape, landscape design, and commercial maintenance business. Over the course of our existence, we've earned a great reputation for quality service and we aim to not just maintain our reputation for excellence but to constantly improve it. That's why we only hire the best of the best. Our management team alone has over 30 years of experience in the industry and members of management used to maintain the White House. The rest of our team is similarly qualified and has over 100 years of combined experience. At SBC Outdoor Services we believe that landscaping is an art, not just a skill. We not only teach our employees proper installation methods but also encourage them to take initiative and to completely pour their imagination and skill into their work. Our design and installation divisions make sure that the product will be very functional as well as attractive while our maintenance division employees take great pride in the ongoing beauty of your property.
"I hired them to do landscaping and a driveway, my drive way is crumbling and have holes in it."
Cynthia R on December 2023
OVER 100 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE AS YOU PATIO AND HARDSCAPE EXPERTS! SBC Outdoor Services was founded in 2015 by Brad Crist. Brad had over 15 years of experience in the industry and wanted to create a landscaping company that could hold true to the concept of “quality landscaping.” Ever since then we've been constantly growing as a high-end hardscape, landscape design, and commercial maintenance business. Over the course of our existence, we've earned a great reputation for quality service and we aim to not just maintain our reputation for excellence but to constantly improve it. That's why we only hire the best of the best. Our management team alone has over 30 years of experience in the industry and members of management used to maintain the White House. The rest of our team is similarly qualified and has over 100 years of combined experience. At SBC Outdoor Services we believe that landscaping is an art, not just a skill. We not only teach our employees proper installation methods but also encourage them to take initiative and to completely pour their imagination and skill into their work. Our design and installation divisions make sure that the product will be very functional as well as attractive while our maintenance division employees take great pride in the ongoing beauty of your property.
"I hired them to do landscaping and a driveway, my drive way is crumbling and have holes in it."
Cynthia R on December 2023
Company Motto: WHEN WE'RE DONE, YOU'LL BE HAPPY, IF YOU'RE NOT HAPPY, WE'RE NOT DONE. It's more than just a motto, it's our Company-Heartbeat. Family owned and operated, we have been serving Maryland Home owners since 1989. Stephen Longdo is a working owner, available to all his clients on a daily basis. We refuse to bid to subcontractors and give a FIVE YEAR FREE LABOR WARRANTY ON ALL OUR WORK. Member of BBB and the Maryland Improvement Contractors Association. MHIC License 37105. Angie's list members are entitled to 25% off, (up to $2,500.00 per household per year).
"All work was completed in a professional manner from initial planning through all phases of construction. The job site was maintained as expected. AES worked with us on a few small changes we requested along the way as well. I felt very comfortable with all the craftsperson’s at work in our home. There was great communication with AES throughout the job. I would use their services in the future."
Joe S on January 2025
Company Motto: WHEN WE'RE DONE, YOU'LL BE HAPPY, IF YOU'RE NOT HAPPY, WE'RE NOT DONE. It's more than just a motto, it's our Company-Heartbeat. Family owned and operated, we have been serving Maryland Home owners since 1989. Stephen Longdo is a working owner, available to all his clients on a daily basis. We refuse to bid to subcontractors and give a FIVE YEAR FREE LABOR WARRANTY ON ALL OUR WORK. Member of BBB and the Maryland Improvement Contractors Association. MHIC License 37105. Angie's list members are entitled to 25% off, (up to $2,500.00 per household per year).
"All work was completed in a professional manner from initial planning through all phases of construction. The job site was maintained as expected. AES worked with us on a few small changes we requested along the way as well. I felt very comfortable with all the craftsperson’s at work in our home. There was great communication with AES throughout the job. I would use their services in the future."
Joe S on January 2025
You’ll get both in S&J. As a family owned and operated business located in Howard County, MD we have been helping homeowners in all of Howard County MD, parts of Carroll County, Baltimore County and Northern Anne Arundel County Maryland and surrounding areas with their home improvement needs for over 20 years.
"We have used S&J Painting and Remodeling many times over the past 5 years, most recently (spring 2025) for handyman services. S&J provide services for a full day, so we typically accumulate a few projects. Our most recent project included replacing two faucets, fixing a very loose banister, repairing a hole in the drywall, as well as a few basic jobs, hanging pictures and installing bathroom fixtures. I expected to paint after the drywall and banister were repaired, but they took care of it for me. When replacing one of the faucets they found the supply lines were old and rusty. They went to Home Depot, purchased new supply lines and installed them at no extra cost. While there they picked up some brackets to secure some other loose pipes they happened to see while in the utility room. We really appreciate the extra attention to detail and doing more than we even realized needed done. We are already accumulating new projects. Scheduling and workday communication is excellent."
Stacey & Patrick F on May 2025
You’ll get both in S&J. As a family owned and operated business located in Howard County, MD we have been helping homeowners in all of Howard County MD, parts of Carroll County, Baltimore County and Northern Anne Arundel County Maryland and surrounding areas with their home improvement needs for over 20 years.
"We have used S&J Painting and Remodeling many times over the past 5 years, most recently (spring 2025) for handyman services. S&J provide services for a full day, so we typically accumulate a few projects. Our most recent project included replacing two faucets, fixing a very loose banister, repairing a hole in the drywall, as well as a few basic jobs, hanging pictures and installing bathroom fixtures. I expected to paint after the drywall and banister were repaired, but they took care of it for me. When replacing one of the faucets they found the supply lines were old and rusty. They went to Home Depot, purchased new supply lines and installed them at no extra cost. While there they picked up some brackets to secure some other loose pipes they happened to see while in the utility room. We really appreciate the extra attention to detail and doing more than we even realized needed done. We are already accumulating new projects. Scheduling and workday communication is excellent."
Stacey & Patrick F on May 2025
Envision. Design. Build. Keystone Pavers is your local brick, stone & interlocking paving professional. We have over 20 years of experience and stay up to date on the latest trends and technical aspects in out field. We take great pride in excellent work, honesty, fair pricing and happy satisfied customers. Our goal is that you will be so pleased with our work and we have met your expectations and you recommend us to your friends and neighbors. Give us a call. We look forward to seeing how we can help you best!
"The work was completed on schedule, the jobs items was kept clean and the patio turned out even better than expected. Keystone Pavers paid attention to detail and were a pleasure to work with."
Maria P on October 2024
Envision. Design. Build. Keystone Pavers is your local brick, stone & interlocking paving professional. We have over 20 years of experience and stay up to date on the latest trends and technical aspects in out field. We take great pride in excellent work, honesty, fair pricing and happy satisfied customers. Our goal is that you will be so pleased with our work and we have met your expectations and you recommend us to your friends and neighbors. Give us a call. We look forward to seeing how we can help you best!
"The work was completed on schedule, the jobs items was kept clean and the patio turned out even better than expected. Keystone Pavers paid attention to detail and were a pleasure to work with."
Maria P on October 2024
Converting a garage is worth it because it can significantly increase your home's value while providing additional living space for your family or guests. Adding a bedroom or bathroom enhances your property's appeal to potential buyers, and creating a guest suite or apartment can even generate passive rental income while you still own the house.
A garage conversion can take between two and six weeks for the construction work, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Before construction begins, you need to secure the proper building permits and hire a contractor. Keep in mind that contractors are often in high demand and might schedule several weeks out. If your garage conversion is extensive or involves significant structural changes, the timeline could extend to eight weeks or more. For attached garages, the proximity to your living space may cause some disruption during construction.
To make your garage livable, at a minimum, you need to insulate the walls, add in legally required egress windows, install flooring, put up drywall, and add in air conditioning and heating. If you intend to use the space as a bedroom, office, bathroom, or kitchen, you will need to consider additional electrical and plumbing needs.
A garage conversion counts as living space when it meets certain criteria. The converted garage must be attached to your home and include permanent features like proper insulation, finished walls and ceilings, and adequate ventilation. It should be suitable for year-round living, with heating and cooling systems to maintain comfortable temperatures in all seasons. Meeting these standards allows the converted space to be included in your home's total square footage, potentially increasing its value.
In most cases, you do not need to hire an architect for a garage conversion. An experienced garage conversion contractor usually has the skills to help create your desired design and ensure the project meets building codes. However, if your conversion involves complex structural changes or a large-scale redesign, hiring an architect can be beneficial. An architect can provide detailed plans and oversee the design to maximize space and functionality, ensuring the conversion aligns with your vision and complies with all regulations.