Oldhousegirl -- Newton

I first hired Frank Cosco to do a small kitchen renovation project for me (just finishing up some wood trims). His philosophy is that he does not turn away small jobs because small jobs often lead to large projects. He is fair and honest. That small job turned into a large porch repair (over $3K) and referrals to a friend who was very satisfied with his work. Since then I've hired Frank for more small projects (hanging new wooden doors) and large projects (bathroom remodel). I appreciate that he lets us by our own materials (he will do it, but it's our preference) and offers us alternatives for different prices. He is unlike most contractors in that he actually shows up when he says he will and promptly returns calls. I never worry about leaving him alone in my home.

When I was renovating my 1901 Victorian I thought I would never been able to match my existing baseboard. I had recently seen an Old House type of program on TV and heard a mention of Anderson McQuaid. I took a piece of the old baseboard to them, and they had an exact match (in stock!) in their extensive inventory. I have since gone back to them for other project. Even if you are doing a new project, their selection and quality of wood trims (baseboards, moldings, etc.) is far superior to any chain store or ordinary lumber yard.

I shop here for some plumbing and heating supplies because of convenience to my home (they are in Watertown, near the Newton line). They are definitely set up for professional plumbers who have accounts (if you are an individual you have to go upstairs to an office to pay for your purchase, but they do accommodate you). As a woman, and a non-plumber, I sometimes feel like they attend to me last. But they are friendly and do try to answer questions. I have found that at other specialty plumbing supply places in the area my experience has been similar.

Umberto has done numerous plumbing projects for us in our home and at our rental properties, and we have confidently recommended him to others. He is a full service plumber -- he does routine work for us like cleaning the roots from our sewer line and installing gas stoves but has done large projects like laundry hook ups, bathtub installations, and pipe replacements. His prices are fair, and he is someone you can trust inside your home.

Family owned business! Rob has insulated my private home and my rental multifamily with blown-in insulation. He is friendly, honest, reliable, and cleans up his work. I have reduced my home heating oil consumption by more than 35% in each property. He blows in cellulose insulation and also does door kits and will seal gaps around windows. He comes when he says he will, and he leaves everything neat and clean. Calnan's is family owned for many years. He does not exaggerate when he tells you how much it will reduce your energy consumption (and it makes your house more quiet, too!). Unbelievable, actually. Could not possibly recommend him and his service more highly (I did the research -- cellulose is superior to fiberglass).