How often should you paint the interior of your home? The frequency you re-paint the interior of your house will vary from five to seven years. Some walls require painting more often than others due to wear and tear. If you have a home with little kids and indoor pets you may find yourself needing…
As summer quickly approaches many of us are thinking of outdoor entertaining, 4th of July BBQs (with GFarms beef of course) and summer parties. Let’s go over some benefits of adding an outdoor living space to your home. 1. This is probably the most obvious, A Place to Host What fun is having a great…
In John Maxwells 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, there is a chapter named the Law of Connection. In it he speaks about communicating with openness and sincerity and quotes NFL coach Bill Walsh who said “Nothing is more effective than sincere, accurate praise, and nothing is more lame than a cookie-cutter compliment”. I think we…
If you’re a homeowner you need a good general contractor on your side. A General Contractor is someone who not just coordinates but supervises every aspect of your project. That includes securing the proper permits and materials for the project, as well as, hiring, scheduling and overseeing the work of other subcontractors like your carpenters,…
Did you make a New Years Resolution to declutter and organize your home? No? Maybe you should have but didn’t. It’s a daunting task. You can change the way your home looks and feels when you simply declutter. When you walk into your home do you feel the chaotic energy? If you want to create…
Today I would like to discuss teamwork. I served 22 years in the Marine Corps and have worked a few different positions since retiring. While I am not independently wealthy, I have taken the time to be more selective in my decision of where to work, which has led me to DC & H and…
I think it is safe to say, we all agree the housing market is completely ridiculous right now. Outrageous bidding wars, supply chain issues for new home builds or flip homes, able to sell but unable to purchase…the list goes on. Many families have succumbed to room conversations to add space for various reasons: home…
If you lived in the area February 2021 chances are you or someone you knew went without power for quite some time. Frigid conditions left us with the realization that the majority of us Texans are not prepared for such conditions. Neither is our home. If Mother Nature throws another polar blast our way and…
Cold weather tip. To save energy and make your home warmer at the same time, turn your ceiling fans to the winter setting ( turn it off and find the switch somewhere near the pull chain and slide the switch to the right. Before you turn the fan on be sure and wipe the tops…
One question commonly asked by homeowners is: “What type of paint should I use for my ceiling?” Ceilings should almost always be painted in a flat, matte acrylic paint. The reason for this is that: Painters once encouraged using semi-gloss paint for a bathroom or kitchen ceiling (or a room with higher humidity) since semi-gloss…
The forecast is horrendous for all of Texas for the next 7 to 10 days. So what to do! Get someone to look under your home for you and inspect all of your pipes under you home, and any exposed, external pipes. Check the insulation on any and all exposed pipes. If you home is pier…
So, you bought a home and moved in, broke up with and someone moved out? You can finally have everything just the way you want it… I am sorry to throw shade on your happy parade. Are you seeing criminal activity reported more in the neighborhood Facebook group? Before you start setting up, look at…
Winter has arrived, and early. Winter brings with it earlier and longer dark hours. Here’s how to light up your home and property after dark. Create Evening Curb Appeal Sconces around the front door or a driveway lamp post add significant curb appeal. Soft light for your Landscaping Spotlight your garden and landscaping around the…
Bathrooms are the number one request when homeowners call me regarding a remodel, even more than kitchens. Bathrooms are smaller than kitchens which typically makes the job easier and faster. Bathroom remodels are one of my favorite remodels to take on. I feel you should walk into your bathroom and feel energized to get ready…
You’ve just purchased your dream home but one thing stands out and not in a good way. The floor! A home’s flooring takes on a lot of wear and tear, so it is high on new homeowners list of things to get done. But it can be a large expense, and many buyers choose to…
Now that a material has been chosen and install the next and most crucial step is drainage. There must be drainage built-in to allow that water to flow and relieve the pressure on the backside of the wall. Without it the water will just sit and rot wood and other materials, add excess weight to…
Customer service review Nearly every business has a way to leave a review of their work, craftsmanship, customer service etc. Some have surveys, ratings and open boxes for comments. We never see a review available for the customer, client or user so that’s what I’m providing today. As a company working in the service industry…
What does that mean, to winterize your home? We winterize boats, RVs, and storage. Most, and likely you, do not winterize your home. Texas is a weather monster. The temperatures and forecast are all over the place year-round. Extreme heat, humidity, and never-ending sun in the summer months. Drastic overnight changes from nice & sunny…
What did I learn from the smash heard around the globe and Elon Musk? I don’t know that I learned much. I am however immediately reminded of the noise of those who do not attempt to suck at something new. Those who do not make attempts at new, new ideas, their own success, and adventures are…
Is ozone treatment right for your home or business? It is a little unnerving with social media shouting it’s blown out of proportion, what does the CDC have on their website, then add in the media. Let’scuss ozone treatment for your home, school, office, warehouse, manufacturing facility, and business. First, we have the three…
International Women’s Day is celebrated on the 8th of March every year around the world. It is a focal point in the movement for women’s rights particularly in the workforce. Did you know over the last five years, the number of male farmers fell, while the number of women rose: Female producers now make up…
Great Read! Before he died, a father said to his son; “Here is a watch that your grandfather gave me. It is almost 200 years old. Before I give it to you, go to the jewelry store downtown. Tell them that I want to sell it, and see how much they offer you.” The son…
There are so many levels and types of internships. There are paid and unpaid internships. Here at DC and H, our internship model is a paid internship. What we teach We teach you the four components to step into any company to stand out and be successful. 1. Sales – nothing happens without the initial…
It’s been a long summer. The sun and heat have been working on your home for the last 8 months. So what does that mean? Well for starters, it is time to caulk your home again and address the gaps. These are the entrance points for cold air. They also work as the exits for…
DC&H Internship Since sophomore year in high school when I was first introduced to Construction Management, I quickly took a strong interest in it. I had taken many different career courses but none that interested me as much as the construction field did. Turning your own or others’ dreams into a reality grabbed me and…
Backer board is a substrate material for tile. Unlike plywood and other wood substrates that can warp, backer board is hard and flat, so it won’t buckle. Its stability allows you to adhere tile using a thinset mortar, making it relatively easy to create a tile surface that’s level and consistent. All of this gives…
Hello DC and H family. I’m Dave Flaishans and the newest project manager to join the family. I’m originally from Michigan and after 22 years of traveling the globe in the Marine Corps I landed in Texas which I have called home since 2007. Today I would like to provide an inexpensive way to…
In 1911 two exploration groups had a goal to be the first ever to reach the South Pole. One group had painstakingly researched, planned and looked at the journey from every angle. They had a well planned route, food and supply stored along the way. This led to them arriving at the South Pole first…
It is now the start of bee swarming season. I am going to talk about swarms, bees which have moved into your home or structure, what to do, and what not to do when you see bees. First, let’s talk about swarms. Bees swarm for a few reasons. Bees will swarm to replace an aging…
If you properly prepare your home before painting and seal the paint, your paint job will have a greater chance of lasting longer. When you perform regular maintenance like cleaning baseboards and wiping down scuff marks you will help keep your paint in tip top shape. If you’re ready to update your paint, keep these…
Once upon a time I lived in a land far far away (California). Between my neighbor and I was a fairly steep hill and a retaining wall was the best option. Living in the desert it was easy to build with some wood, anchor it in, backfill and pretty it up with some stucco. No…
With the continued growth we are seeing all over the metroplex we are also seeing a higher need and demand for drainage. Many builders are putting houses next to each other with gutters facing each with limited slopes. Luckily all the standing, pooling water can easily be diverted with French drains. Depending on how large…
When is the last time you worked at your job for free? You expect to be paid for what you do. Don’t you? The remodeling industry is no different. When you think about it, there are very few industries that give things away like the remodeling industry does. It is really important for clients to understand…
Concrete has some very basic ingredients that make that hard wonderful surface we drive, park, walk and build our homes on. Cement is used as a powerful binder material. When mixed with water it acts like a glue This glue like mixture is then mixed with aggregate particles, think small rocks or stones. This…
We have all heard the term PSI but what does that mean when working with cement? PSI Pounds per square inch (psi) measures the compressive strength of concrete. Basically If an object is receiving five psi, five pounds of pressure are being exerted on that object per one inch of surface area. A higher psi…
Are you stuck between a rock and a hard spot when it comes to needing to update your home? Let’s face it, not everyone can jump feet first into a major remodel. In fact, most of us probably have to take it one small project at a time. Here are a few things you can…
What’s the first thing you notice when you walk into a room? I don’t know about you but for us it’s the color and flow of the room. If there are splotchy or chipping parts on the wall it’s bound to stick out like a sore thumb. This is where it’s important to know the…
Have you ever found it hard to say no to someone who says “I’ll do the work” when you’re in a group project? No, you haven’t, that’s because when we step up as leaders people naturally follow us. Being a project manager takes being a good leader. Good leaders are developed in the dark days…
If you’re anything like me growing up the only thing you know about pools is that you had to go to your friends down the street or the city pool. I never knew much about pools other than they held water. When I Heard about Gunite pools I had no idea what that was. So…
If you’re looking for a modern more aesthetic look to add to your house, a cable wire fence is one of the best solutions. Instead of a wood panel fence, the cable wire fencing gives a more open look to the property while adding that sleek look that a wood panel fence could never do. …
Home improvement and maintenance is a year-round obligation. Some seasons do require a bit more maintenance than others. Those of us who live in the South, for example, know that summer is ideal for plenty of things, but a labor-intensive house project is not one of them. Here in Texas our short stint of Autumn…
What is a French drain? A French Drain is a trench filled with gravel or rock, or both, containing a perforated pipe that redirects surface water and groundwater away from an area. How Effective is a French Drain System? French drain systems have been known to be extremely effective. The reason being, unlike surface drains,…
Compared with traditional fiberglass insulation, spray foam insulation is extremely effective at producing a layer of insulation with no air infiltration. It is lifetime attic insulation, so you’ll be able to permanently scratch it off your list of future worries. Spray foam seals all voids and creates an air barrier around your attic,this helps maintain…
Todays topic is fireplaces. With the holidays approaching so many of us will want that picture perfect fireplace for Santa to enter our homes from. Here is a simple way to give your dates fireplace a quick and easy facelift and to be Santa ready. Painting your fireplace can transform the entire look of the…
Ice and Water Shields: What You Need to Know What is an ice and water shield? Do you need it on your roof? Lets discuss how it works, and why you would want this applied before your new roof. Think about your roof as one of the first defenses against the elements. It shelters you,…
With our continued high temperatures and drought like conditions we have here in Texas, have you ever considered catching the rain that we do get to use for your foundation and plants during those hot times? If you currently have a gutter system on your house, there are simple attachments that will divert the water…
When you are searching for a service to be provided (Hair stylist, lawn maintenance, mechanic) you have a general feel for the type of person and experience you are Wanting. It shouldn’t be any different when you are looking for a contractor. Of course we all want that “Fair, low price with first class work”…
Hello there! Thanks for stopping by to learn a little bit about me. Let me introduce myself, I’m Kelsey, I have been working alongside Willie for nearly 4 years now. I started out with G Farms, working with our beef customers, cutting and baling hay, and playing with the bees. I have moved over to…
We’ve discussed concrete and PSI but what is curing? The chemical reaction between water and cement is called hydration. If the water evaporates to quickly like when it is extremely hot or freezes (we can only wish for that cool weather right now) during the first seven days of curing, the concrete will be substandard.…
In the past some of my previous blogs have been construction related. Today is going to be more of a personal note. As a general contractor we can never do all of the work ourselves, as much as we may want to get in there and get it done, we just can’t do it. Not…
First, what is a fiberglass pool. Quite simply the name says it all, a pool made of fiberglass. But why would you possibly want one? They are practical, and offer a wide array of features. As with nearly everything in life not all fiberglass pools are created equally. When researching pool options remember that there…
We have licensed insurance on staff What does that mean for you. If you live in Texas you have, or know someone who has, experienced some of the different catastrophic events that we have. Tornadoes, freezes which caused pipes to breaks causing flooding, hail and thunderstorms that destroy roofs. That’s just Mother Nature, we also…
Are you planning a new swimming pool? Is it time to remodel an existing one? Then you need to pick out a type of coping to trim the pool & spa perimeter. What is pool coping in the first place? Coping is construction terminology referring to masonry material used to cap the top of a…
Keeping your pool deck cool is possible. As I wrap up my pool related posts, let’s discuss applying a coating to your deck that will help maintain your cement decking as well as give some much needed relief for those hot days. Here are some reasons you may want to apply a deck treatment around…
When it comes to hanging branches and needing to address them, there are always questions about “who is responsible?” I am going to touch on two of the most asked questions here in the tree world. Let’s say your neighbor has a large tree that overhangs into your yard. This makes it difficult to mow…
Patio covers boost your overall outdoor space while maximizing your experiences with outdoor dining, partaking in family get-togethers, and even working. Without a patio cover, you have more exposure to wind, rain, snow, storms, insects, and harsh sunlight. A patio cover is more than an outdoor accessory. The right patio cover for your home can…
Tips to Get Your Home Ready for the Holidays Have you thought about preparing your home for the holiday season? Don’t wait until the last minute, it’s time to be proactive! You have the basics: adding décor and lights, setting up the holidays festive items, and perhaps rearranging your furniture to accommodate guests. But, as…
Let us start with the anatomy of a chainsaw chain. Knowing what you are looking at it is a necessity to chainsaw maintenance. The chain on a chainsaw rotates from the top of the bar to the underneath of the bar. You want to make sure that your teeth are facing the correct direction. You…
I have been having writers block when it comes to something construction related to write about So, I figured I would switch gears and share about a book I have been reading… for the third time. You would think after the first two times the principals would stick. The Five Second Rule by Mel Robbins.…
Texas does two extremes very well. Heat and Cold. The heat we expect. The cold still manages to catche people off guard despite the warnings. Whether its Christmas 2022 or winters further down the road here are a few important reminders to help prevent a holiday disaster. Prep and cover your outside pipes. You want…
Not every construction company is lucky enough to be able to have their own in house carpenter. Here at DC & H Construction we are blessed to have Jamie apart of our team. Jamie is talented in many areas of wood working. Some of his areas of expertise are: custom entertainment centers, custom baby gates,…
You wake up in the night or come home from work to find a water heater busted and your home is soaked. This is definitely the time to file a claim. Filing a homeowners insurance claim is fairly straightforward once you know what to expect. Time to file a claim Most policies cover your home…
Sealing the doors in your home Winter is when people really start thinking about how they can winterize their homes. One big one is making sure that your homes entries are well sealed. Weather stripping is common to use around your doors and windows to help cut back on drafts. If your door is out…
I recently was encouraged to read The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks. I am a quarter of the way through the book and feel like I have been punched in the gut. I am having to read a few pages at a time, sit it down, and really ponder what the author is saying. I…
Have you seen the beautiful results of epoxy flooring yet? This style flooring is quickly gaining popularity for showrooms, salons, and even in your home. As I dive into learning more about this unique floor style, I wanted to answer a few questions a have found on my learning journey. The durability of epoxy floors…
I recently attended a class hosted by a local concrete coating store. They broke down the important steps to achieving great epoxy flooring results. Let’s review what I learned. Just like in painting, it’s all about the prep work. Prep work by far is the longest and lest fun part of installing epoxy coatings. Proper…
In Texas, severe droughts and severe rain can both cause foundation issues in homes and buildings. These problems can be exacerbated when both events occur in the same year, as is often the case in this region. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the common foundation issues that can arise during times of…
Spring time is a time of renewal, rebirth, and rejuvenation. As the weather warms up and new buds start to emerge, it’s the perfect time to get your home ready for the upcoming season. Here are some tips and tricks to prepare your home for spring. One of the best things you can do for…
Carpet tiles have become popular choice in recent years for homeowners and business owners, due to their convenience and flexibility. When it comes to high traffic areas, carpet tiles can be a good choice as they are durable and can withstand a lot of foot traffic. They are also easy to replace if any damage…
Have you ever wondered what a life changing it could be to go from a bathtub to a walk-in shower? Transforming your bathroom area can bring joy, make you feel good and relax when it’s time to take a shower. Some benefits of having a walk-in shower is giving you more space to walk, it’s…
garden? Dig out Junior’s rusty old Radio Flyer and turn it into a mobile planter that can go roll where ever it needs to, from sun to shade and right to your kitchen door. Drill a few holes in the bottom for water to escape. Put a small layer of gravel then your garden soil.…
As a project manager for a construction company, I never thought this role would lead me into the world of bees. It is no coincidence though. Our sister company Gfarms keeps bees at the farm for their wildflowers, honey and many other added benefits. You may wonder how the two worlds really come together…
North Texas has definitely had its full of hail this past week. Some of the hail pictures are almost unbelievable in nature. Nature is truly fascinating and dangerous at the same time. Hail storms can pop up fast and without warning. Here are a few suggestions to help minimize damage and keep you safe in…
Artificial turf also known as synthetic grass has become a popular choice for many homeowners looking to create a low-maintained backyard. Let’s dive into the benefits and disadvantages of using turf in your backyard. Firstly, one of the major benefits of turf is the low maintenance requirements. Unlike natural grass, turf does not require mowing,…
If you are a pet owner chances are you have used your own personal tub or shower to bathe your pet. I have coaxed my mastiff into my shower or bathtub a handful of times. He doesn’t mind a bath but it is cramped space for a 120lb dog. A washing station has become one…
My name is Traci Kelley. I’m 35. I have 2 kids 16 & 12. I have 2 tiny teacup chihuahuas. My world revolves around my kids and dogs. I was in the glass industry for 5 years working my way from a customer service rep to the general manager. I am a new project manager…
My name is Kim Sloan and I am a mom to 4 amazing children & a Lolli to 2 precious grandchildren. I spent 27 years working for a major corporation where I picked up skills of many kinds. I am an enthusiastic, self-motivated, reliable, responsible and hard working person with the heart of servant. I…
It is 2023 and 3 years ago everything changed in the work field. Many folks forced to work from home while we all social distanced. People had to become creative on their work spaces, many just taking up dining tables; working from the couch or bed. The lucky few had a dedicated home office. The…
If you’re like me, the end of the day is when we typically get to think about our upcoming days, weeks, or months. It’s when my brain starts to list out the things that need to get done, or the activities I’d like to do if I could. Household projects often fall on that list.…
You can count on Texas to deliver severe weather regardless of the season. We can have tornados year round but especially spring and summer. Last year, the it was reported that Texas had 159 tornadoes, 5 which was right here in North Texas. We hope you never have to call on us for any…
When choosing a new floor for your home, asking yourself a few key questions can help reduce the amount of stress later on. Choosing flooring to create a particular mood or feel for your room may seem like a daunting decision. It’s a process that combines your personal taste with careful thinking about practicality and…
Storms are common occurrences, and they can cause significant damage to residential properties. The damage caused by storms can include broken windows, roof damage, siding damage, and more. If you have experienced storm damage to your home, it’s important to act quickly to make repairs and prevent further damage. Here’s what you need to know…
Stamped concrete is a popular choice for homeowners and businesses looking to enhance their outdoor spaces. This versatile material offers a wide range of design options and can mimic the appearance of more expensive materials like brick, stone, or even wood. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of stamped concrete, its installation process,…
When deciding to add a deck to your home there are many questions to answer before moving forward. The main question being if you want to do it yourself or have professionals do it. A deck can add value to your home if done correctly. When deciding on an deck you may ask yourself do…
When it comes to enhancing the appearance of concrete surfaces, there are several options to consider, each with its unique characteristics and benefits. Tinted concrete sealant, acid wash stain, paint, and traditional stain are four popular choices, and understanding their differences is crucial for achieving the desired look and protection. Tinted concrete sealant is primarily…
I have been given the opportunity to move positions from farm intern to project manager for DC and H Construction. For the past few weeks since I have taken the position, I have built up a full pipeline, gone on appointment’s, and have a job that is soon to start with a few more on…
Choosing the right water mitigation company and construction company is crucial for several reasons. In this blog, I will discuss the importance of making informed decisions when it comes to these two aspects of home improvement. First and foremost, selecting the right water mitigation company is essential because water damage can have severe consequences for…
Tile is an essential element in interior design that often goes unnoticed. It not only adds aesthetic appeal to a space but also serves practical purposes. One of the key advantages of tile is its durability. Unlike other flooring options, such as carpet or hardwood, tile is resistant to wear and tear, making it a…
Exterior caulking plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and durability of a building’s structure. It serves as a protective barrier against moisture, air leaks, and pests, ensuring that the interior remains dry and comfortable. By sealing gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other exterior openings, caulking prevents water infiltration, which can lead…
French drains are a popular drainage solution used to prevent water damage and flooding in residential and commercial properties. These drains are designed to redirect excess water away from buildings and landscapes, effectively preventing water accumulation and potential structural damage. They consist of a trench filled with gravel or rock, which allows water to flow…
When it comes to installing tile in a shower, a shower liner plays a crucial role in preventing water damage. A shower liner is a waterproof barrier that is installed beneath the tile to protect the underlying structure from water penetration. Without a shower liner, water can seep through the tile and grout, leading to…
Winterizing Your Home: Keeping your home cozy when it’s cold As the chilly winds of winter approach, it’s time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. Winterizing your home is not only essential for maintaining a comfortable living space but also for energy efficiency and cost savings. Here are a few tips to…
Culverts are an essential part of our infrastructure that often go unnoticed. They play a crucial role in managing water flow and preventing flooding in our communities. A culvert is a structure that allows water to flow under a road, or other obstruction. It is typically made of concrete, steel, or plastic and comes in…
Remodels and new home construction sends a lot of dust and debris through the air, and the process can create a large amount of clutter on a job site. I have high standards for my crews companies when it comes to cleaning throughout the day vs putting it off until the end of a job.…
Out of the many thing I have learned in construction, turf has been the most recent and relevant subject due to a land clearing/pond job I have tasked out to do. building up to this job I had to evaluated the dirt work I would need to get done prior to installing the turf. This…
Bathroom remodels are a popular home improvement project that can greatly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom. Whether you’re looking to update outdated fixtures, create a more spacious layout, or simply give your bathroom a fresh new look, a remodel can make a significant difference. From small changes like replacing the vanity and…
Winter brings with it a unique set of challenges, and one mysterious phenomenon that many homeowners experience during the colder months is the sudden popping sounds emanating from walls and ceilings. While it might be tempting to dismiss these noises as mere quirks of the season, understanding the causes behind them can help alleviate concerns…
Building decks is a popular home improvement project that can add value and functionality to your outdoor space. Whether you’re looking to create a spot for outdoor entertaining or a peaceful retreat, a well-designed deck can transform your backyard into a beautiful extension of your home. Before you start building your deck, it’s important to…
Spray foam insulation is a popular choice for homeowners and businesses looking to improve energy efficiency and reduce utility costs. It’s a type of insulation that is applied as a liquid and expands into a foam, filling gaps and creating an airtight seal. One of the key benefits of spray foam insulation is its ability…
Hosted every year in Las Vegas, the World of Concrete Convention is a leading event for the concrete, masonry and construction industries. It features exhibitors showcasing the latest products and technologies, as well as educational sessions and networking opportunities for professionals in the field. If you decide to join the WOC convention they offer a…
Replacing windows is a common home improvement project that can have a significant impact on the aesthetics, energy efficiency, and overall comfort of a home. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your windows for better insulation, enhance the appearance of your home, or reduce outside noise, replacing windows can be a worthwhile investment. There are several…
Installing a gravel driveway can be a great way to improve the appearance of your home while also providing a durable and cost-effective surface for your vehicles to drive on. To start, you’ll need to determine the size and shape of the driveway you want to install. Measure the area and mark it out with…
Bee removals can be a delicate process that requires careful planning and execution. When dealing with a bee infestation, it’s important to first identify the type of bees involved and assess the size of the colony. This will help determine the best approach for removal. One common method of bee removal is to contact a…