Tracy Roussey - 434-260-6424

We heartily recommend the organizational (and motivational!) skills of Tracy Roussey (Tracy@treasureeditor.com, 434-260-6424) to anyone who is considering decluttering, downsizing, moving (in or out), transitioning a home from rental to residence or residence to rental, or planning the flow of a home to meet your needs (office space, craft area, etc.). We had a "wall" of boxes following a move after retirement, and she very effectively helped us deal with this impediment, as well as curating our furniture needs and finding new homes for pieces we were no longer using. She has motivated and helped us approach this gargantuan task with grace, not guilt, and a good dose of humor. Submitted by Cyndi McCabe. June 2025

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Lauro Morales - 434-409-9971

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I would like to recommend Lauro Morales (434-409-9971) for yard work and odd jobs in and around the house. Lauro had worked for me in my mountain home and now in my Stoney Creek home. He has planted trees, relocated plants from the mountain to my Stoney Creek home, waters and weeds when we are away for long periods, and just recently, he cleaned the screened-in porch, including the “top to bottom” furniture covers, all walls, screens, and railings. Looks like a “brand new” porch. Lauro has also helped us with chores around the house, such as hanging pictures on high walls. Lauro is always on time, courteous, professional, and has a good command of English, his second language. I highly recommend him. Submitted by Joyce Claman. June 2025

The Rush Painting - 434-906-9280

I want to share a very good experience with the painting contractor we used this past week. Our house is over 20 years old and the exterior had never been painted. We contacted an outfit called The Rush Painting. They power-washed on the first day and painted for three days afterwards. The Rush Painting, contact Martin at 434-305-8122 or Julio 434-906-9280; therushpaintingllc@gmail.com. Submitted by Robert Kemp. May 2025

Marta Tice - 434-226-0882

Marta Tice, ASID, (434-226-0882) of Downsizing By Design helped me a great deal with downsizing into my lovely new home in Stone Orchard. She designed a new floor plan for the furnishings that I wanted to keep and helped me decide what to purchase, such as a new sofa, area rugs, and curtains. Working with my handymen, Marta helped with the layout of furniture in my living, dining, and guest rooms. She artfully determined where pictures and paintings should be hung that would accent my harp collection and grand piano. She patiently arranged my accessories, understood the task, and encouraged me to hang in there when things seemed upside down. Submitted by Virginia Schweninger. May 2026

I can recommend interior designer Marta Tice (434-226-0882, downsizingbydesign.pro) wholeheartedly. When we decided to sell our big Alexandria house after 40 years and downsize to a small condo, so that we could spend more of our time here at our Wintergreen house, she was good at helping us plan this double move, helping us decide what furniture and possessions would be coming down here, and what would be sold, donated or kept. She kept us focused and organized through the process. When the moving truck arrived at the Wintergreen house, she worked with the movers, advising where everything should go. She then arranged for additional help to assist us with additional unpacking. Marta also has a very good eye for arranging furniture. For me, Marta's most valuable asset was her cheerful support. Moving is so stressful, and her supportive attitude made the whole process more enjoyable! If you are planning a move, Marta is the one to call. Submitted by Michele Reday Cook. April 2025

This summer, interior designer Marta Tice (434-960-6565, martaleapoffaith@gmail.com) guided our replacement of old carpeting with new carpeting and tile and installation of moving shades on our top-floor condo sky windows. She found good contractors and had the work accomplished in a highly satisfactory manner while we were away on vacation. Her fee was reasonable, and she is an interesting person to be around. Submitted by David Peyton.  September 2025

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Wintergreen Hardware - 434-361-1919

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Wintergreen Hardware keeps a small selection of lumber on hand, so I checked with them to see if they had a 10-ft 1 x 6. They didn't have one, but owner Jackson Cox was picking up lumber the following day and offered to drop it off the next day at our house. I had my board before 8 am and didn't have to drive to a Lowe's or Home Depot for one piece of lumber. The store is constantly expanding it offerings. The staff routinely go out of their way to help with products, advice, and old-fashioned hospitality. My wife was having trouble countersinking a bolt into one of her projects. She went to our hardware store to ask for ideas. Jackson did it in quick order at no charge. I have never left Wintergreen Hardware without something of value, from garden supplies to plumbing, hardware, pest control, and references for local vendors. Submitted by Mark Grubb. April 2025

After three visits in two hours with the same gallon of stain for my deck, I confidently recommend buying Benjamin Moore paint from Wintergreen Hardware (434-361-1919). Jackson Cox demonstrated impressive expertise with the state-of-the-art color blending equipment he installed at his store a few months ago. It's a long story, but due to a mismatch on a can of paint from elsewhere purchased two years ago, I asked Cox to do some seat-of-pants custom programming that–finally–got the color match I needed to save me from having to paint our back deck twice. Submitted by Charles Batchelor. March 2025

I don't recall a time when Danny Watson or his crew at Wintergreen Hardware didn't have what we needed for a household repair. The True Value hardware store in Nellysford has come up with parts to connect an LP stove, install an oddball kitchen sink, and solve an electrical problem. But, they don't have a 2 by 4, right? Wrong. You'll find bait for mice and other pest control products that work. You can buy just one nail, bolt or screw there. Paints, stains of every type. It's where I shop for grass seed, fertilizer, mulch and landscaping rock. Chain, rope, and wire is custom cut. Lots of flashlights. I needed a can of tennis balls; they had it. Best of all, they see themselves as problem solvers. (When I needed a 5-inch wide piece of PVC pipe that was 10-inches long and a cap for each end, it was no problem for Wintergreen Hardware.) They don't mind phone calls asking if they have what you need; call 434-361-1919. Charles Batchelor.

Onsite Window Screening Pros of Virginia - 540-705-1001

I laughed when I read Mark and Sarah Mitchell's business card. "Finally! A company that repairs window screens," it said. Exactly, but I'd add, "And even screen porches." I didn't know what I was going to do until I found their business, Onsite Window Screening Pros of Virginia (540-705-1001, windowscreeningprosva@gmail.com) based in Harrisonburg, Va. Last week, they finished completely rescreening our 25-year-old screen porch using a low profile, sophisticated, aluminum and vinyl framing system. The job took three days, one to tear down the old screen and frames, and two to custom-make a screen frame for each of the 21 spaces. If and when a screen is damaged, these frames make it possible to replace the screen cloth easily. Mark said they can take on any window screening situation. He offers heavy-duty screens for those living on golf courses. The weather was challenging on our job, but Mark was never fazed about it. Submitted by Charles Batchelor. March 2025

We recently had all the screens replaced on our screened porch by Onsite Window Screening. The owners, Mark and Sarah Mitchell, not only replace screens they can also repair them. They offered three different levels of screening, we chose the one that was the least visible and we are delighted that it looks like there are no screens between us and the views. Their number is 540-705-1001. Submitted by Russ & Mary Jo Russell. September 2025

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Doug's Maytag - 434-286-2692

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Our washing machine was no longer spinning at top speed and we were left with soggy clothes requiring additional spin cycles.  This quickly became an inefficient process. We discovered that our washer was still under warranty after contacting Doug's Maytag 434-286-2692 and scheduled a service call within the week. Our soft-spoken technician, Michael, quickly diagnosed the problem and installed a new motor. We are back in business! Highly recommend Doug's Maytag. Submitted by Flo Quick. February 2025

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Troup Custom Carpentry - 434-328-0374

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We would like to recommend Troup Custom Carpentry for the amazing job they did replacing our deck and screened porch. From the initial meeting to discuss our requirements to the final inspection (troupcustomcarpentry.com, tj13631@gmail.com, 434-328-0374). TJ Troup and his crew worked methodically to design and build a quality construction project that included TimberTech decking, Westbury railing, drainage system, screened under-deck area, Alexa-controlled lighting and fans, and LP wrapped posts and beams to provide a very finished look inside and out. TJ’s decision to cantilever the deck to hide the gutter system on the outside of the screened porch gave the deck a much cleaner look. These unique structural design decisions and craftsmanship resulted in praise from the county inspector during the final inspection. We have a deck to enjoy for decades. We are extremely happy with the total experience. TJ and his crew were fun to work with, reliable, and always communicated with us on progress, schedule, and any construction changes that needed to be made. A big thanks to TJ and his crew for a job well done. Submitted by Dan and Karen Carow. April 2025

Due to age and water damage, we recently needed to replace a sliding back door on our home. After a series of bids, we selected T.J. Troup, owner of Troup Custom Carpentry (TroupCustomCarpentry.com, 434-328-0374). TJ was not only competitive in his pricing, he was attentive to the need to ensure the new door matched well with two other sliding glass doors on the left and right; he was an effective communicator as we waited for the door to be delivered and the weather permitting installation; and he used a preferred trade partner-local painter to very effectively match up the interior and exterior paint as well as match the interior portion of the door’s stain with other stained areas in the room. Once the materials and weather provided the opportunity to install the door, TJ and his team were prompt in completing the installation as promised in one day. After this experience, we are considering using Troup Custom Carpentry in the Spring for some interior renovations of a couple bedrooms, bath and hallway. Submitted by Mark Grubb. December 2024

wood trim, carpenter,

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Clean As A Whistle - 680-217-5111

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We have been using Clean As A Whistle house cleaning services for our rental house in Wintergreen for the past three years. The owner, Janelle Csik (680-217-5111), is very responsive, flexible and treats the house as if it were her own (paying close attention to any damage or missing items). She cleans the house very well, and we often get comments in our reviews about how clean the house was. I also appreciate that she notices if something is off, broken or has been damaged so we can quickly address it. Additionally, she offers to do extra things - like a carpet cleaning or leaf removal based on seasonal needs or when she sees there is a need. It's nice to have someone you can trust as your eyes and ears when you are not there. Submitted by Dalton Dorne. December 2024

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Albemarle Lock and Safe - 434-977-5397

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We used Albemarle Safe and Lock (434-977-5397) for a difficult door lock and re-keying. The locksmiths were very professional and easy to work with, and reasonably priced. Submitted by Sandi Nettina. January 2025

Albemarle Lock and Safe (434-977-5397, info@albemarlelock.com) did a marvelous job of repairing 23-year-old hard-to-find lock mechanisms for us last year. Submitted by Greg Heuer. January 2024

locksmith, security

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Charlottesville Community Bikes - 434-260-0893

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We took several bikes over to Charlottesville Community Bikes and they were very appreciative. The non-profit accepts donated used bicycles of all shapes, sizes, and ages. If they can't refurbish it, they recycle the bike for parts for other bikes. The bikes are for adults as well as kids. They offer bicycle repairs and train teenagers in the process. Bikes go to those in the community in need. CCB's phone number is 434-260-0893. Submitted by Maria Spence. November 2024

bicycle repair, bikes, nonprofit, non-profit

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Rob Moses of Blue Ridge Building & Home Safety Solutions - 434-202-4054

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I highly recommend Blue Ridge Home Safety (info@brhomesafety.com, 434-202-4054) for deck projects. I waited to submit this review until this spring to see how things held up over the winter, and we couldn’t be happier with the final results. The deck is sturdier than it ever has been, and the Timbertech decking is a great barefoot walking surface, even when wet. We have owned our home in Wintergreen since 2019 and had repaired the deck each year since. When we decided to do a deck upgrade, we knew we wanted a low-maintenance option. After speaking with several companies, we decided to move forward with Blue Ridge Home Safety and the Timbertech Advanced PVC decking. While not the lowest quote, they were the most professional. Specifically, spelling out their responsibilities minimized the chance for rolling change orders. Rob did a great job at saving what was usable on the deck while making improvements where required. Additionally, unlike our previous contractor experiences, the communication was excellent, and Rob was always there when he said he would be. Submitted by Stefan Marchett. July 2026

I wholeheartedly recommend Rob Moses and Blue Ridge Building and Home Safety Solutions (434-202-4054, brhomesafety.com) who we hired to renovate our two decks and front porch. His work is spectacular. From the planning and estimates, to the construction itself, every detail was meticulous, and timely. Our old wooden decks were peeling and splintered. He replaced them with TimberTech, which will never require painting, looks fabulous, and is extremely strong and sturdy. He also replaced the supporting posts, which had rotted below the surface, securing them with concrete and metal at ground level. The new railings are sleek and afford a better view. Submitted by Sabrina Dunn. November 2025

We highly recommend Blue Ridge Building & Home Safety Solutions LLC. Local residents Rob and Sara did a fantastic job of replacing and expanding the deck on our son's house on the mountain. Rob was on site himself and was professional and meticulous. Over the years, I have had many contractors working on houses, and Blue Ridge Building was the best experience ever. Great people to work with. Submitted by Jack Pendray. August 2025

We contracted with Rob Moses (Blue Ridge Building and Home Safety Solutions, 434-202-4054) to install handrails for our front porch. He helped us select a style that blends perfectly with our existing entryway. He also installed handrails for our steps leading down into the garage and grip bars for our large shower, which blend in perfectly with the existing shower hardware. As an additional security measure, he installed a Ring door camera at our front entrance and a camera in our back areas. We were pleased with all the safety measures installed "just in case," although we did not expect to need them. "Just in case" came quickly, however. With the unexpected need for hip surgery and delayed surgery dates, I am now using all of the home safety measures installed, including the door camera. Submitted by Janie Friedlein. June 2025

We would like to compliment Rob Moses of Blue Ridge Building & Home Safety Solutions (434-202-4054) following the replacement of our two decks. We have lived in Wintergreen for approximately 25 years and have built two homes here, one on the mountain and one in Stoney Creek. We have dealt with many contractors, subcontractors, handymen, tradesmen, and such. It is difficult to find someone willing to come to this location, do a good job, and be pleasant at the same time. Rob was professional–prompt, neat, tidy, and completed the project with quality workmanship that surpassed our expectations. His wife, Sara, was also attentive to the business aspect of this project. We recommend Blue Ridge Building and Home Safety Solutions. Submitted by Lina Johnson and Chris Niebergall. November 2024

deck repair, carpentry

Abunvios Painting Fernando Ballona - 434-305-6904 or 434-305-5718

I highly recommend Abunvios Painting, Fernando Ballona (434-305-6904 or 434-305-5718). They did an excellent job washing all our outside windows on our two-story home, and while they were at it, they replaced a rotted board on our siding and freshened up our balcony railing, which had a lot of mold. Submitted by Russ Russell. July 2026

We would like to highly recommend Ofelia Abundio (434-305-6904) and her husband for an outstanding job cleaning our windows, skylight, mini blinds, and chandeliers. They also cleaned our gutters and power-washed our decks. Ofelia says they also do painting and porch repairs, so I'm going to be having them back soon. They were prompt, on time, and very efficient in getting all our jobs done in one day. All at a very reasonable cost. They really are the full package. Submitted by Linda and Lewis Townsend. June 2026

We are recommending Fernando and Ofelia Ballona (434-305-6904, ofe667@gmail.com) for window cleaning. They did all our exterior house windows on the mountain. Three stories of windows, and they look great!  They also do interior windows, power washing, painting, and wood repairs.  Very nice couple; punctual, emails or phones right back, and very reasonable pricing. Submitted by Maria and Paul Spence. May 2026

We recommend Fernando and Ofelia Ballona (434-305-6904, ofe667@gmail.com) and crew for jobs such as house repair, power washing, painting, wood repair, and window washing both outside and inside. This week they have been with us accomplishing all we needed in a timely and expert manner. Submitted by Barbara Gibb. April 2026

We recently had our Wintergreen home power-washed and painted by Fernando Alvarado (434-305-6904). He and his crew did a great job. He is reasonably priced and responsive. Submitted by Steve Allred. September 2025

We chose Abunvios Painting (434-305 6904) and were very pleased with the job they did. They did drywall repair from a water leak and painted the interior of our house. They arrived on time, very carefully painted, and cleaned up responsibly. They were courteous and worked with my schedule. We also hired them to clean all the windows. We have very high ceilings and windows. They did an excellent job on drywall, painting, and windows.  We got three estimates for this work; Fernando and Ofelia Abunvios bid was similar to other estimates. Submitted by Carolyn Sharbaugh. September 2025

We are delighted to recommend Fernando Ballona, who just did an excellent job power washing and painting our house at a very fair price. Fernando made repairs where necessary and, along with Ofelia and Stephan, was a joy to work with. In addition to painting and power washing, Fernando also cleans windows and fixes decks. To reach Fernando or Ofelia, call or text 434-305-6904 or 434-305-5718, email ofe667@gmail.com. Submitted by Nancy McMoneagle. November 2024

power washing, painting, window cleaning, deck repair

Fortune Electric - 540-241-3398

I hired Darrel Fortune, (Fortune Electric, 540-241-3398) to install a 240-volt outdoor outlet on the side of my house so I can plug in my portable Level 2 vehicle charger. Running the electric line from the panel in my basement to a suitable location outside was a challenge, but Darrel came up with a great plan and executed it perfectly. The electrician's pricing was reasonable and his communication throughout the process was great. Submitted by Ginny Burke. November 2024

electrician

Precision Garage Door Services of Charlotte - 704-347-0300

We recommend the prompt and professional services of Precision Garage Door Services of Charlotte (704-347-0300) for garage door services. Logan Davis and Adam Quick arrived promptly and were able to diagnose the problem, and repair and replace our old system. Logan and Adam have long ties to the Wintergreen community as well. Submitted by Dave and Sharon Meadows. December, 2024

home, garage door

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Good Measure Carpentry - 434-326-2898

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We are happy to recommend Brian Buckley, owner of Good Measure Carpentry (434-326-2898). We were introduced to Brian’s work when we drove past his project on Camping Ridge and followed the progress of this outstanding structure being built from the ground floor up. After speaking with the owner, who couldn’t have given Brian more glowing praise, we hired him to add a storage room to our home. One key to a successful relationship is the ability to ask questions and ensure complete agreement on the project's objectives. Brian uses an interactive approach focusing on budget, cost-savings, aesthetics, and satisfaction—the result is a seamless addition that adds functionality. Even the county inspector commented on the quality of Brian’s work. "The sign of good work is not being able to tell it’s an addition.” Submitted by Francesca Flood. December 2024

home, carpentry, remodeling, addition

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