About

I thought it would be kind of cool to put up this site for a few reasons…

First, I never did anything like this before, and I really enjoy new challenges. (Can thereafter add them to the list of life-conquests!) Secondly, I genuinely enjoy writing and what better to write about than something you’re really interested in? Now, don’t get me wrong – painting is not my idea of a great time. However, stepping back and looking at a finished project that involved careful planning, frugal purchasing, prudent negotiating, meticulous execution (which always comes with some surprises it seems) and then really dressing it up with finishing touches?

Well, that I like.

Unfortunately, not all projects are like this. Some are pure maintenance – and others are just flat-out miserable repairs. (The upstairs shower is leaking through the dining room ceiling… Wait. What? Are you kidding me??) But overall, most everything brings a new challenge — and the more you can do yourself, the more money you can save *and* the more you can assure things will truly come out your way.

I should add… I’m not a professional contractor these days, though that’s how I started out.

I’m now an engineer and a part-time teacher, and I truly only have the weekends.

But this is stuff I simply enjoy, and I’ve been doing projects like these my whole life starting with my Dad back in the 1980s. So, maybe you’ll find something useful as posts are added here from time-to-time, and if you have any suggestions, questions or comments – by all means, please contact us and let us know!

Mark Russo
mark@all-about-the-house.com