Waterproofing Recomendations?


We’re getting some seepage through our foundation.

It’s not a large area, but we want to nip it in the bud.

Can anyone recommend a good reliable waterproofing company?

Thanks.

Categories: Foundation
By guywithahouse | 02/07/2011 2:20 PM | Comment

Looking for an Architect for workspace project


We need an architect to design a workspace/office project in Sunset Park.

Office design experience mandatory.

Categories: Architects
By guywithahouse | 11/11/2010 11:35 AM | Comment

Slippery Stair Treads


After the second split lip on my 2-year-old and both the wife and I taking tumbles this winter, I think we need to address our slippery yet oh-so-lovely oak stairs.

Under bare feet they’re no problem at all. But in the cooler months in socks or footie pajamas, they’re slicker than snot.

I’m wondering if there’s a non-hideous seasonal option or some other minimally visible method to add some traction.

(We’d really prefer not to carpet–and not walking around in socks or pajamas just isn’t realistic in our house.)

By guywithahouse | 03/24/2010 4:12 PM | Comment

Fire My Contractor?


OK so I have this contractor working on my finished basement and assorted other things around the house. In general, he’s been excellent. The job is literally 95% done. I knew that that last 5% was going to be be like pulling teeth, but at this point things have gotten ridiculous.

After a rapid slowdown in progress and a major no-show one day. The guy comes over 3 weeks ago to make a list of the various things that need to be done–it’s really minor: some trim pieces, a door hanging, etc.–he apologizes for the delay, we laugh…blah blah blah.

He said he’s coming in the following week to bang it out in a day or less.

Since then, I have not heard a word from the guy.
I have called several times, texted him several times, sent a handful of emails and even contacted his son just to see if the guy’s still alive (he is.)

At this point, I just want the project finished and I’m ready to just get someone else. However, I actually owe HIM more that the total value of what’s left.

What’s the protocol, here? Can I just walk away from this guy? I don’t have a formal contract. Any opinions?

Categories: Legal
By guywithahouse | 01/25/2010 4:18 PM | Comment

Converting Boiler to Natural Gas


I have a relatively new (4yr old) Peerless Oil Steam Boiler.

For multiple reasons, I’d like to convert to natural gas.

I’ve been told that this boiler can be “converted” to gas.

Has anyone had any experience with this? Was efficiency compromised? How well did it work?

Categories: Heating
By guywithahouse | 01/07/2010 8:27 PM | Comment

ISO welder for a small job.


I need a MIG welder for a small wrought iron job.

Anyone know somebody who can do a quickee right away?

By guywithahouse | 01/04/2010 2:20 PM | Comment

Spray Painter/Enameler


I have some built-ins that need to be spray painted with enamel or the like.

Does anyone have a contractor who does this kind of work?

Thanks.

Categories: Painting
By guywithahouse | 08/10/2009 2:19 PM | Comment

Stripper for wood paneling?


The good news is I found what appears to be mahogany wood paneling (floor to ceiling) in my dining room.

The bad news is that it’s covered in several layers of paint, including at least one lead paint layer.

It’s a large room and I wonder if it would cost more to strip it than replace it.

Does anyone have any recommendations for a professional service that can do this kind of work?

Thanks.

Categories: Woodwork
By guywithahouse | 07/07/2009 4:58 PM | Comment

ADT Security “Changeover” fee???


I purchased a house that had an ADT security system installed by the previous owner.

I called the installer and was told that there was a changeover fee of $600+ dollars.

When I asked what this exactly entailed, I was told that the would replace the panel (which apparently was brand new) and have the system checked.

If the prior owner had a service contract (which they did) and were up to date on the bills (again, they were) why would it need a check-up?

I got a hard sell on the phone and started feeling like this was a scam.

Anyone else run into this?

Categories: Alarm
By guywithahouse | 07/02/2009 6:32 PM | Comment

Slate Roofer Recs?


Anyone know of a reliable, experienced slate roof specialist?

Thanks in advance for your replies.

Categories: Roofers
By guywithahouse | 04/07/2009 10:51 AM | Comment