We are a locally owned and operated company. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of home improvement services that are customized to each individual project. 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!
"He was very quick and responsible! Hired them to remove some trees and will definitely hire them to do some other stuff around."
Christopher M on December 2023
We are a locally owned and operated company. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of home improvement services that are customized to each individual project. 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!
"He was very quick and responsible! Hired them to remove some trees and will definitely hire them to do some other stuff around."
Christopher M on December 2023
The Outdoor Advantage, LLC has been making customers happy in central Maryland by performing quality work at reasonable prices since 2002. We specialize in hardscape design and installation, mulching, hauling, planting, gutter cleaning, landscaping, power washing, snow removal and general outdoor maintenance. We help the homeowner add value to their land and create beauty according to the homeowner’s budget and dreams. It is our pleasure to serve the homes of Carroll County, Baltimore County and Baltimore City. We also have several customers as far south as Montgomery County.
"The work is good, but was a little excessive."
Keith H on July 2024
The Outdoor Advantage, LLC has been making customers happy in central Maryland by performing quality work at reasonable prices since 2002. We specialize in hardscape design and installation, mulching, hauling, planting, gutter cleaning, landscaping, power washing, snow removal and general outdoor maintenance. We help the homeowner add value to their land and create beauty according to the homeowner’s budget and dreams. It is our pleasure to serve the homes of Carroll County, Baltimore County and Baltimore City. We also have several customers as far south as Montgomery County.
"The work is good, but was a little excessive."
Keith H on July 2024
Ithaca Flooring Solutions specializes in Polished Concrete and Resinous Coatings such as Epoxy. We also offer Custom Concrete Countertops, as well as 'traditional' flooring such as wood, vinyl, and tile
Ithaca Flooring Solutions specializes in Polished Concrete and Resinous Coatings such as Epoxy. We also offer Custom Concrete Countertops, as well as 'traditional' flooring such as wood, vinyl, and tile
We are a Veteran owned, family owned and operated company proudly serving Central New York and the Fingerlakes Region. We thrive on business relationships that become long term, and work mostly on referred customers.
"We paid Matt at Family Ties Contracting over $35,000 to renovate our downstairs apartment in an agreed upon maximum of three months. The problems began early, with delays to the start of our project, but we cut him slack because one of his employees was injured in an accident. Not long after, we began getting bills for extras that 1) were already detailed in the contract and 2) were never signed off on. We were clear with Matt from the beginning that we wanted a space that was up to code, it wasn't till months later that we discovered he never even pulled a building permit - is a big "no no" where we live. Our local inspector did not seem happy about this and, in the process of inspections, we discovered other work that needed to be done to bring the apartment up to code, adding to the cost of our project. The problems continued when Matt began to refuse doing work that was clearly in the contract, from small jobs like installing the kitchen sink, to big ones like adding sheetrock to the ceiling to meet code, which was the first thing listed in our contract. The quality of the work was poor, we ended up having to hire a second electrician to install the correct type of outlet for our washer/dryer and a second plumber to fix a leaky sink which was installed. When the project was "finished" it was a mess (see pictures below). Worst of all, the project wasn't actually completed for 11 months - 8 longer than what was in our contracted, which resulted in the loss of a years worth of rental income. We were *constantly* calling them to come back and fix mistakes over this time, with varying degrees of success. To top it off, the owner apparently began spreading rumors about me and my wife because of the difficulties. I wouldn't have even bothered writing this, until I became aware of that. Overall, a totally unprofessional experience. We have spent over $52,000 so far and we are having to finish up by hiring outside contractors. We feel like we were screwed by Family Ties Contracting. It's not just the money and the poor results, but the stress and frustration made for an overall terrible experience."
Chad L on July 2020
We are a Veteran owned, family owned and operated company proudly serving Central New York and the Fingerlakes Region. We thrive on business relationships that become long term, and work mostly on referred customers.
"We paid Matt at Family Ties Contracting over $35,000 to renovate our downstairs apartment in an agreed upon maximum of three months. The problems began early, with delays to the start of our project, but we cut him slack because one of his employees was injured in an accident. Not long after, we began getting bills for extras that 1) were already detailed in the contract and 2) were never signed off on. We were clear with Matt from the beginning that we wanted a space that was up to code, it wasn't till months later that we discovered he never even pulled a building permit - is a big "no no" where we live. Our local inspector did not seem happy about this and, in the process of inspections, we discovered other work that needed to be done to bring the apartment up to code, adding to the cost of our project. The problems continued when Matt began to refuse doing work that was clearly in the contract, from small jobs like installing the kitchen sink, to big ones like adding sheetrock to the ceiling to meet code, which was the first thing listed in our contract. The quality of the work was poor, we ended up having to hire a second electrician to install the correct type of outlet for our washer/dryer and a second plumber to fix a leaky sink which was installed. When the project was "finished" it was a mess (see pictures below). Worst of all, the project wasn't actually completed for 11 months - 8 longer than what was in our contracted, which resulted in the loss of a years worth of rental income. We were *constantly* calling them to come back and fix mistakes over this time, with varying degrees of success. To top it off, the owner apparently began spreading rumors about me and my wife because of the difficulties. I wouldn't have even bothered writing this, until I became aware of that. Overall, a totally unprofessional experience. We have spent over $52,000 so far and we are having to finish up by hiring outside contractors. We feel like we were screwed by Family Ties Contracting. It's not just the money and the poor results, but the stress and frustration made for an overall terrible experience."
Chad L on July 2020
I provide top quality home improvements for fair pricing
"Project was said to take 3 weeks but between personal problems with eviction, moving, his crew getting locked up, dental work, no gas, bla-bla-bla, it took extremely longer to get moving. I'm sure u get the idea that project was not completed in a timely manner and should never have been dragged out for months. My recommendation is to make sure you get a time line in writing and add a default clause into the contact to be on the safe side if your decide to use this guy. In my opinion, this business operator took on more than he could handle and failed to deliver. Worst experience I ever had. Phil has terrible time management skills in additional to poor money management problems. Use caution if u decide to deal with him and his wife, Marcella. Business owners should not have their personal problems impacting their clients. That is your bread and butter, after all. Plus the fact that is not professional. They take very little responsibility for there shortcomings. His poor shabby work actually created more problems with leaks due to roofing materials not put down or fastened properly; unbelievable. In addition, the job site was not kept safe and secure with children present all summer; hazards that even involved a close mishap with his own son on a ladder. Consider this experience when considering this business for your job. Just want to warn others before they are faced with similar problems."
Jane M on October 2018
I provide top quality home improvements for fair pricing
"Project was said to take 3 weeks but between personal problems with eviction, moving, his crew getting locked up, dental work, no gas, bla-bla-bla, it took extremely longer to get moving. I'm sure u get the idea that project was not completed in a timely manner and should never have been dragged out for months. My recommendation is to make sure you get a time line in writing and add a default clause into the contact to be on the safe side if your decide to use this guy. In my opinion, this business operator took on more than he could handle and failed to deliver. Worst experience I ever had. Phil has terrible time management skills in additional to poor money management problems. Use caution if u decide to deal with him and his wife, Marcella. Business owners should not have their personal problems impacting their clients. That is your bread and butter, after all. Plus the fact that is not professional. They take very little responsibility for there shortcomings. His poor shabby work actually created more problems with leaks due to roofing materials not put down or fastened properly; unbelievable. In addition, the job site was not kept safe and secure with children present all summer; hazards that even involved a close mishap with his own son on a ladder. Consider this experience when considering this business for your job. Just want to warn others before they are faced with similar problems."
Jane M on October 2018
Experienced General Contractor with knowledge of all home repairs and maintenance. Kitchens, Baths, Drywall, interior/exterior painting , concrete, pavers, decks, roofing, siding, replacement windows , doors, garage doors, sidewalks, tile, flooring , window treatments, pressure washing . 24/hr and Handy Man services.
Experienced General Contractor with knowledge of all home repairs and maintenance. Kitchens, Baths, Drywall, interior/exterior painting , concrete, pavers, decks, roofing, siding, replacement windows , doors, garage doors, sidewalks, tile, flooring , window treatments, pressure washing . 24/hr and Handy Man services.
Amazing EZ-Screen Porch Windows are uniquely designed and custom-sized screen porch windows made to fit existing openings without expensive re-framing. They are also ideal for new construction. It’s easy to enclose your outdoor spaces. Versatile, rugged and attractive, they’re also a snap to operate. Open, they let the breeze in, closed they provide protection for rain, snow, wind, dust and the summer sun. Light weight, but heavy duty. Amazing EZ-Screen Porch Windows are constructed of durable extruded aluminum frames with a tough powder coat. The frames hold mesh screens and lightweight, vinyl-glazed panels in place. The strong 10-mil vinyl glaze we use provides panoramic views, while keeping the elements out. If the vinyl is accidentally distorted, it will return to its original shape within minutes. If cut or damaged, the vinyl can be easily replaced inexpensively. Clean with mild dishwashing detergent and a clear water rise. For best results, we recommend a final cleaning with EZ-Screen Vinyl Cleaner and Preservative, available through Amazing EZ-Screen Porch Windows. The Amazing EZ-Screen Porch Windows can ship your new windows directly to your home within 3 – 4 weeks. Our windows are delivered ready to be installed. We always say, “if you can operate a caulking gun and screw gun, then you can install your own windows”. We accept Visa, Master Card, and Discover.
"It went perfectly. I called and spoke to the office immediately. They came out the next day on a Sunday prepared to give an estimate and complete the job. Everything is done. They performed quality work with quality products, very professional, clean-cut, honest, efficient, fair price. We are very happy and highly recommend them."
Michele I on August 2019
Amazing EZ-Screen Porch Windows are uniquely designed and custom-sized screen porch windows made to fit existing openings without expensive re-framing. They are also ideal for new construction. It’s easy to enclose your outdoor spaces. Versatile, rugged and attractive, they’re also a snap to operate. Open, they let the breeze in, closed they provide protection for rain, snow, wind, dust and the summer sun. Light weight, but heavy duty. Amazing EZ-Screen Porch Windows are constructed of durable extruded aluminum frames with a tough powder coat. The frames hold mesh screens and lightweight, vinyl-glazed panels in place. The strong 10-mil vinyl glaze we use provides panoramic views, while keeping the elements out. If the vinyl is accidentally distorted, it will return to its original shape within minutes. If cut or damaged, the vinyl can be easily replaced inexpensively. Clean with mild dishwashing detergent and a clear water rise. For best results, we recommend a final cleaning with EZ-Screen Vinyl Cleaner and Preservative, available through Amazing EZ-Screen Porch Windows. The Amazing EZ-Screen Porch Windows can ship your new windows directly to your home within 3 – 4 weeks. Our windows are delivered ready to be installed. We always say, “if you can operate a caulking gun and screw gun, then you can install your own windows”. We accept Visa, Master Card, and Discover.
"It went perfectly. I called and spoke to the office immediately. They came out the next day on a Sunday prepared to give an estimate and complete the job. Everything is done. They performed quality work with quality products, very professional, clean-cut, honest, efficient, fair price. We are very happy and highly recommend them."
Michele I on August 2019
Hardick Enterprises, LLC Operates as a Full Service General Contracting Firm with complete in house service that does not subcontract out any part of the job. We bill our clients on a per project basis with promotional discounts for return service work & new customer referrals.
Hardick Enterprises, LLC Operates as a Full Service General Contracting Firm with complete in house service that does not subcontract out any part of the job. We bill our clients on a per project basis with promotional discounts for return service work & new customer referrals.
To maintain crystal-clear water and prolong your pool's lifespan, establish a regular cleaning schedule. Skim the pool for debris and clean the wall tiles every week. Test the pH level every week or every other week to maintain a balanced level of 7. Additionally, vacuum the pool, inspect the equipment, empty the pump baskets, and check the filters every month. Following this routine helps protect your pool’s surface and maintains a consistently healthy swimming environment.
If you've added too much chlorine to your pool, it's important to act quickly. Expose the water to direct sunlight to help break down the excess chlorine, heat the water to accelerate the chemical reaction, and add fresh water to dilute the concentration. You can also apply a chlorine-neutralizing product to bring the chlorine level back to the safe range. These actions maintain water quality and protect both your pool surfaces and swimmers.
One of the easiest ways to save on pool maintenance is to start completing some regular pool maintenance tasks yourself. While more serious repairs should be left to the professionals, routine tasks like skimming your pool to remove debris or checking the pH are tasks that can be accomplished on your own.
The lifespan of your pool is determined by its construction and materials. In-ground concrete pools offer a lifespan of 50 years. Fiberglass pools deliver over 30 years of service. Vinyl-lined pools have a 20-year lifespan with a required liner replacement every six to 12 years. Above-ground pools typically offer a lifespan of eight to 15 years.
It’s best practice to drain and refill the pool every three to five years to maintain the water's purity and flush out accumulated solids. Avoid draining the pool completely, as this can damage the structure. If you're not experienced in pool drainage, it's best to have a pool professional handle the process to protect both your pool and its surroundings.