what's in a name? |
I know what you're thinking. Everyone in the renovation and home services industries is far too uptight and serious. Yup, your house is an important investment. I get that. But how many times have you met with your contractor, letter carrier or pool boy and thought "Would it kill you to smile?"
You already have enough stress from mortgage payments, the kids (or neighbor's kids,) Facebook friends' political agendas... If there is something you want or need to do around the house, that shouldn't add to the anxiety. If only there was someone with a little knowledge about renovation, repair and maintenance who didn't mind sharing. Even better if he or she explained things in a way that didn't make your head hurt. Hammered & Screwed is my light-hearted attempt at helping complete strangers become a little more informed about their homes. Some of the content is born from experience; some is stolen from others. I try to balance how-to and DIY bits with a few stories and explanations thrown in to keep things interesting. Of course I'm not going to guarantee the accuracy of anything I post nor will I suggest any of the information is directly applicable to your situation. I'm off the clock here. I might also go days, weeks or months without providing bits of contractor wisdom or advice. If that's a problem, feel free to drop me a note. I'll be sure to respond within a few days, weeks or months... |
And Who is Steve? |
Thanks for asking. I'm a partner and General Contractor with the Canadian renovation and design company Bordertown Home Improvement Services. My industry experience spans a couple of decades during which time I have managed hundreds of home renovation projects. I have spent countless hours (and hard-earned cash) working on my own houses over the years so I understand the highs and lows that come with home ownership.
Prior to making the move to construction on a full-time basis, I enjoyed a number of years as a senior executive with a national laboratory services company. I know, not relevant right? Not directly perhaps but you'd be surprised how portable business skills can be. I have also spent some time in an entrepreneurial capacity in both the high-tech and sports/entertainment industries. I live in a beautiful little suburb just south of Vancouver, BC where the family and I have easy access to beaches, trails, mountains and a whole lot of rain. Much of my non-work life revolves around the kids and their activities (go SD United!) and what little time remains I spend on sport, music and laundry. The Hammered & Screwed project is my way of decompressing and justifying a little "Steve time" (Sorry son, I can't drive you to your friend's place. Daddy's blogging...) If you enjoy what I'm doing here, send some encouragement! If you don't, I'll happily refund every penny you paid me to read the blog. Less the non-refundable deposit of course. - Steve |