CM - Etobicoke

We hired Red Robin Masonry (from Homestars reviews, in fact)to determine the cause of damage and to repair flagstone steps at the front of our house. Dave called a week before the work was to start, reconfirming date and time with us. Dave called again the day before the start date letting me know that it was expected to rain and, if it did, they would be there as soon as the weather cooperated enough for the work to be correctly done, perhaps even that day. I appreciated being given the heads up and consideration that I may have other things to do than wait for workers. We've hired Red Robin to return in the spring to repair stucco entrance walls and more flagstone steps...this is the kind of company I want to work on my house -- fair prices, good business ethics, knowledgeable and pleasant workers, and excellent project and customer management.

The designers at Aesthetic Earthworks really know plants. That was key to me for our project since our front yard had light, water and black walnut toxin problems and I didn't want the expense or look of hardscaping, although they could have done that too. Claire, the designer, chose interesting but not too unusual (the really expensive ones!) plants and clearly explained the reasons behind her choices. On-time deliveries of materials and plants ensured project completion within the estimated time. AE's employees were all pleasant people to have around my home, and were fast workers and knowledgeable about plants and gardens. The job was done on budget and on time and we love the finished result.

We have already referred Gem to a relative looking for parts for their casement window. Jim at Gem is a very helpful, knowledgeable and approachable guy, apparently the only person in charge of and with access to the parts department. Be sure to phone ahead to make sure he is there to save yourself a trip. We bought replacement parts for two casement windows and the replacement lock part for a sliding door. Jim readily explained and willingly demonstrated, using a window on display in the store, how to properly and easily (yet to be seen!) install the window parts. The price was reasonable, too, compared to the prices I saw at a leading box store with similar but not the correct hardware we needed.