FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Estimates, emergencies, insurance, scheduling and the details of specific jobs. Don’t see your question? Call 989-858-6732.
General
Do you give free estimates?
Yes. Every estimate is free and includes a detailed description of the scope of work along with a breakdown of the cost and the time involved. You can call 989-858-6732 or send details and photos through the estimate form.
What areas do you serve?
Steve's Handyman Services is based in Lewiston, Michigan and serves Lewiston, Atlanta, Gaylord, Mio and the surrounding area. If you’re not sure whether you’re in range, call 989-858-6732 and ask.
Do you offer emergency service?
Yes — 24-hour emergency service is available. For emergencies like storm damage, a fallen limb on the roof or an active leak, please call 989-858-6732 rather than using the online form.
Can you bill my insurance company?
Insurance can’t be billed directly, but you’ll get the documentation you need — photos and an itemized scope with costs — so you can submit it to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Will I know what’s going on while the work is being done?
Yes. You’ll hear from Steve throughout the job until it’s finished. If the timeline needs to change for any reason — weather, materials or something found once work starts — you’ll be told right away.
Do you work on cottages, cabins and businesses?
Yes. Steve works on private homes, lake cottages, log cabins and local businesses — full construction or just installation.
Is my job too small?
Small repairs and to-do lists are welcome. A rocking stair tread, a sticking door or a few pieces of trim can often be grouped into one visit.
Can I send photos of the job?
Please do. The estimate form accepts up to five photos, and a couple of pictures of the problem area usually make for a faster, more accurate estimate.
Decks, Porches & Railings
Composite or pressure-treated decking — which should I choose?
Pressure-treated lumber costs less up front and is easy to stain, paint or repair. Composite costs more but doesn’t need staining and won’t splinter. Many decks use a pressure-treated frame with composite on top. Your estimate can price both so you can compare.
Does my deck need to be torn out completely?
Not always. If the framing underneath is sound, new decking and railings can make an old deck look and feel new. If the joists are soft, the ledger is pulling away or the posts are rotting, the frame needs rebuilding. Steve will check and explain the options.
Roof Repair & Re-Roofing
Why does the ceiling stain appear somewhere other than the leak?
Water runs along the roof sheathing and rafters before it drips, so the stain is often a few feet from the actual opening. A roof repair starts by tracing it back to the source.
Storm & Tree Damage Repair
A tree came down on my house — what should I do first?
Stay clear of any downed or damaged power lines and call the utility first. Take photos for your insurance company, then call 989-858-6732 for emergency service to get the opening covered while the repair is planned.
Flooring Installation
Is vinyl plank flooring a good choice for a cabin that isn’t heated all winter?
Vinyl plank generally handles moisture and temperature swings better than solid hardwood, which is why it’s popular in cabins, entries and bathrooms. Every product has its own temperature and installation guidelines, and the floor you choose will be installed to them.
Walkways, Pavers & Boardwalks
Why do some paver walkways get wavy?
Almost always because of the base. Without enough compacted gravel and a solid edge restraint, frost heave and settling move the pavers around within a few winters.
Doors, Windows & Skylights
My skylight leaks — do I need a new one?
Often not. Most skylight leaks come from the flashing around the unit rather than the skylight itself. Rebuilding the flashing is usually the fix.
Free estimate
Tell Steve about your project
A few details are all it takes. You’ll get a clear, written estimate with the scope, the cost and the timeline — free.
24-hour emergency service — for storm damage or an active leak, please call.