Jeff's Handyman Services

08/29/2026

08/29/2026

08/09/2026

Just a few of my highlights from this weekend at the Earth Song Festival Retreat

Such a blessing to be a part of this event and I will be returning next year. Hopefully I'll see you there too!!!!

06/18/2026

A sagging gate is almost always the result of poor construction—not just age.

When I arrived at this project, I quickly discovered why the gate had been failing from day one. Instead of being properly braced, it had actually been assembled using shelf brackets... a method that simply isn't designed to support the constant weight and movement of a swinging gate.

The solution was to completely disassemble the gate and rebuild it the right way.

I installed a proper diagonal compression brace, running from the bottom hinge corner up to the top latch corner. This is the correct orientation because it transfers the gate's weight back to the hinge side, preventing the frame from twisting or sagging over time.

Once everything was reassembled, the gate swung smoothly, stayed perfectly square, and closed exactly as it should.

Quality carpentry isn't just about how something looks—it's about understanding the engineering behind it so it continues to perform for years to come.

06/17/2026

Not every project calls for a complete replacement. Sometimes the best solution is an honest one.

This deck has reached the stage where a full rebuild would be ideal. However, my client is on a retirement budget and plans to sell the home in the near future. Investing $20,000+ into a brand-new deck simply wouldn't provide a return that makes financial sense.

Instead, we focused on making the existing structure safe, solid, and presentable.

The project began by replacing a rotted corner 4×4 support post while carefully reinstalling the original decorative veneer caps to maintain the deck's appearance.

From there, I disassembled the aging stairs. One side was still salvageable, so I reinforced the existing stringers using sound lumber recovered from the old staircase, giving them new strength and stability. The opposite side required a complete rebuild, so I constructed a brand-new two-step box staircase using all new materials.

To ensure the new steps would stand the test of time, I first leveled the ground and installed a compacted pea stone base, creating a solid foundation before building the staircase.

Every project is different. My goal is always to provide the solution that best fits my client's needs, budget, and long-term plans—not simply the most expensive option.

06/17/2026

Two weeks ago, I helped this client by removing years of built-up leaves, sticks, and debris from their entire gutter system. After seeing just how much had accumulated in only two years, we decided to take the next step in protecting their home.

This week, I returned to install gutter guards around the entire roof drainage system.

Gutter guards help keep leaves and debris out while allowing rainwater to flow freely, reducing the need for frequent cleanings while helping prevent overflowing gutters, fascia damage, foundation issues, and unnecessary wear on your home's drainage system.

Preventative maintenance is one of the best investments you can make. It's always rewarding to provide a long-term solution that protects a client's home and gives them peace of mind for years to come.

If your gutters haven't been cleaned or inspected recently, now is the perfect time to stay ahead of the seasons.

06/13/2026

Vader Loves these Mini wags we got from here in Ingersoll! We love this little gem of a store they have Canadian made treats made with real ingredients that help keep Vader healthy and coming back for more!!

06/12/2026

There's something special about working with natural timber, especially when it's a beautiful live-edge support column.

Today's project involved installing a substantial 9" × 9" live-edge porch support post. While the finished result looks simple and elegant, achieving a clean, solid installation requires patience, precision, and attention to detail.

The first step was determining the exact center point where the post needed to sit. Using a carpenter's square, I established accurate center marks—X marks the spot. Before drilling anything, I used a plumb bob to transfer the center point and confirm the precise location of the post from top to bottom. Sometimes the simplest tools are still the most reliable, and the plumb bob allowed me to ensure the column would be perfectly aligned and true before moving forward.

Once the location was confirmed, I drilled into the concrete and installed a lag bolt directly on center. The post was then carefully positioned over the anchor point and checked from multiple directions to ensure it was plumb, true, and level.

The result is a beautiful live-edge timber column that provides both structural support and natural character to the porch. Every piece of wood has its own personality, and preserving those natural edges brings a unique warmth and authenticity that manufactured materials simply can't replicate.
Projects like this are a reminder that quality craftsmanship isn't just about the finished product—it's about taking the time to get every step right along the way.

05/25/2026

Came across several snakes sunning themselves in the forest on our hike this afternoon. Most of them quickly sought cover but this one held ground and put its trust in its camouflage even after Vader almost stepped right on him. What a choice these animals are constantly facing, Fight, flight or freeze. This one chose freeze in the face of danger. I wonder what makes them chose or does the reptile brain immediately make these decisions without any need to process. Nature is so precious and beautiful and full of wonderment.