10 No-Demo Renovation Projects That Can Boost Your Home’s Value, Backed by Zillow

NO-DEMO RENOVATIONS

I. Introduction Home Improvements Don’t Have to Start with a Sledgehammer When most homeowners think of increasing their home’s value, their minds immediately jump to major construction: tearing down walls, replacing flooring, gutting bathrooms, or redoing kitchens from scratch. But here’s the truth, you don’t need demolition to make impactful, value-boosting upgrades. In fact, one […]

19 Essential Home Updates to Weatherproof Your Home Before the Next Storm Hits

WEATHERPROOF YOUR HOME

I. Introduction Weatherproof Your Home Extreme Weather Is No Longer a Rare Occurrence, Is Your Home Ready? In recent years, we’ve seen an undeniable surge in extreme weather events across the country, from record-breaking heatwaves and flooding to powerful hurricanes, snowstorms, and wildfires. Whether you live on the East Coast bracing for hurricane season or […]

6 Deck Mistakes You Should Avoid This Summer If You Want It to Last

DECK MISTAKES

Introduction Deck Mistakes Your deck is one of the most valuable outdoor features of your home. It’s where summer memories are made, backyard barbecues, family gatherings, quiet evenings with a book, but without the right care, it can also become one of the fastest deteriorating areas of your property. What many homeowners don’t realize is […]

Turning Your Shed Into a Tiny House? Here’s What You Need to Know

TINY HOUSE

I. Introduction Over the past decade, the tiny house movement has exploded in popularity, with more homeowners and property investors discovering the appeal of small, functional, and cost-efficient living spaces. But what exactly is a tiny house? By definition, a tiny house is a fully functional, self-contained home typically under 400 square feet. In many […]

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Barndominium?

BARNDOMINIUM

I. Introduction: What is a Barndominium and Why Are They So Popular? A barndominium, often referred to simply as a “barndo”, is a hybrid structure that merges the functionality of a barn with the comfort and features of a traditional home. Unlike standard houses, barndominiums are typically constructed using a durable metal or steel frame, […]

A Homeowner’s Basic Guide to Electrical Wiring

ELECTRICAL WIRING

I. Introduction Whether you’re upgrading your summer cooling system or just hanging new lights, every homeowner benefits from a clear Guide to Electrical Wiring. Knowing the basics helps you recognize potential hazards, spot problems early, and ask the right questions of contractors. It also helps prevent electrical fires – a critical concern during the hot […]

National Electrical Code (NEC) Guidelines for Residential Outdoor Wiring

OUTDOOR WIRING

Introduction: Why Outdoor Electrical Safety Matters Outdoor Wiring Outdoor electrical wiring can vastly improve a home – illuminating pathways, powering landscape features, and enabling conveniences on the porch and patio. But working with electricity outdoors comes with unique hazards. Moisture from rain or irrigation can infiltrate fixtures and outlets, causing corrosion or short circuits; earth […]

Part 2 of A Basic Guide to Home Electrical Wiring

HOME ELECTRICAL WIRING

Welcome to Part 2 of our Home Electrical Wiring guide, brought to you by MGS Contracting Services, your trusted remodeling and electrical experts serving the heart of West Virginia. In Part 1, we covered the essentials: wire sizing, sheathing, safety principles, color coding, and how to read wire labels. Now, we’re diving deeper. This half […]