Several times a month we have customers through the shop with a common frustration. Somewhere in their old home they have a new door or doors with modern hardware. They want to replace the modern hardware with something keeping with the age of the home, but have found that old hardware seems to be incompatible with the newer door. We hear the same lament from owners of newer houses that are trying to add some “old world” character to their home. Left; mortise lock, above; tube latch and square... more

Over the years, homeowners have used on various paint schemes to “hide” their shed in the back yard. Thirty years ago when I was a kid, my mother would send me out back with forest green or tree trunk brown paint to hide the shed in the landscape. Twenty years ago the shed was painted the same color and trim as the house with the hope the shed would be blend in with the home. Today, with the deck and patio used more as an extension of the home’s living space, the shed has become an exterior... more

Just because everyone knows that paint adheres longest to clean surfaces doesn’t mean that everyone should use a pressure or power washer to prep a surface for primer and paint. Yes, exterior surfaces are covered with dirt, environmental pollution, mildew, moss and chalking, peeling, and flaking paint. However, pressure washers are dangerous tools that should not be operated by a weekend do-it-yourselfer. A pressure washer utilizes an electric or gas engine with a pump to increase the water pressure... more

Remodeling For Independence Together (ReFIT) is a non-profit, volunteer organization providing home modification services for physically and financially challenged homeowners who wish to remain living independently in their homes. Started by a small group of volunteers including Bill Markt of Markt and Company Construction, the group wanted to help those with physical or age related barriers. Original entry from the garage was not wheelchair compatible for homeowner Samir Taha. Finished... more

Flea market gems can make or break a redecorating or restoring project. Flea markets, however, have nothing on the Portland ReStore. Unlike the search and destroy practices that overstock our landfills, here it’s all about search and reuse. This process is good for the pocketbook, good for the community, and great for the non-profit sponsoring organization, Habitat for Humanity. If it’s quality materials and great prices you are after, here you can hit the mother lode. When entering... more

Alton “Al” McCoy was a self-made man. He learned ocean navigation at the Portland library, eventually sailed all over the world and earned himself the rank of captain. During World War II, Al ran the entire United Fruit Company fleet successfully for the United States government. Al McCoy During his travels, he established ties with some hardwood companies on the east coast and began distributing hardwood flooring throughout the greater Portland, OR area. In 1946, Al founded McCoy Lumber. Al... more

Your front door is one of the most important aspects of your house’s appearance. It’s the gateway into your home and the first thing anyone encounters. Obviously, this entry is worthy of some consideration, whether as part of an exterior restoration or just adding more curbside appeal. This process requires particular attention when it involves an older home. Before the renovation project started. Entry before with all of the original charter removed. Finished entry with the... more

Thinking about replacing those old, inefficient windows? Wondering what to do, whom to call? You are not alone! Every day, people visit websites to get information on energy efficient windows that end up only providing information for a sales call. If this scenario sounds familiar, take heart…there is hope. Below are a few basic questions on energy efficient replacement windows. The more you know about replacement windows, the more likely you will make an intelligent decision for you and your family... more