Handy Pro Home Projects LLC

06/03/2026

If you're thinking about getting new kitchen cabinets and considering having them made from particle board, please don't. If you can afford it, rather get plywood or hardwood. This is what happens when particle board breaks down, most probably from less than stellar installation and packing too much into the cabinets. I suspect it was very top heavy and finally gave out. Time to repair and give it some life

06/02/2026

A sneak peak of a cabinet build I'm working on. I'll be building two copies of the same cabinet. The top is mahogany and the frame is poplar. My client will decide whether to paint the frame white or stain it.

05/05/2026

04/28/2026

Have you ever wondered who’s behind the projects you see from Handy Pro Home Projects?

My name is Donavan Marais and I’m not just a business owner—I’m a carpenter with over six years of hands-on experience in construction. From building decks and porches to framing entire houses, I’ve been in the trenches with my late father-in-law, building spec homes from the ground up—clearing land, pouring concrete, and working hand in hand with every trade. I’ve even studied architecture and spent years designing in 3D.

So, when you work with me, you’re not just getting a service—you’re getting a partner who’s passionate about craftsmanship. I specialize in fine woodworking and design bespoke furniture tailored just for you. My process starts with 3D design—so you can see your custom piece come to life before it’s built. You’ll have the chance to choose everything—from the wood species to the finish—so your furniture is truly one-of-a-kind. If you’re ready to create a piece that tells your story, send me a message—I’d love to bring your vision to life.

04/15/2026

Planning a move soon? You need Chase Fuller and hos amazing team to get you there the right way. Done right, the first time!

We heard from Chase Fuller, General Manager of Cavalier Moving last week. Chase leads Cavalier Moving, a trusted Richmond-based moving company known for its professional, clean-cut crews and stress-free service from start to finish.

Under his leadership, Cavalier Moving continues to focus on reliable residential and commercial moves throughout Richmond and surrounding areas, with an emphasis on careful handling, strong communication, and a smooth customer experience.

Whether it's a local move or a larger relocation, the Cavalier team has built a reputation for showing up on time, working efficiently, and treating every move like it's their own.

Be sure to attend our meeting tomorrow, April 15th, at the Better Business Bureau of Central Virginia, as we will hear from Adam Lucas of Bear Mechanical.

A big thank you to Barry Moore and the incredible team at the Better Business Bureau Serving Central Virginia for hosting The Referral Train in their amazing offices. The space is welcoming, professional, and perfectly suited for productive meetings, and the central location makes it easy for everyone to attend - especially with plenty of convenient parking! The free coffee is an added bonus that definitely doesn't go unnoticed! We truly appreciate their hospitality and support of our group.

S&S Painting
Nat Cross Sells RVA
Cavalier Clean Team
Yoursocialpros
Stone's Office Equipment
Rebecca Young Crawford
Riverstone Wealth Advisory Group
Amy Burns Gery
Cavalier Moving - Richmond’s Clean-Cut Movers
SmartWire 360
Handy Pro Home Projects LLC
Kinship Strategy Group
BBB serving Central Virginia

04/14/2026

See your project before the first cut is made. 📐🪚

I’m excited to announce the launch of my new website! One thing that sets Handy Pro Home Projects apart is my 3D design process.

For every custom woodworking project—from mudrooms to shelving—I create a digital 3D model so you can visualize exactly how it fits in your home. No guesswork, just precision.

Check out my latest "Digital to Reality" transformations at handyprohomeprojects.com

Ready to upgrade your space? Let's start a 3D design for your home today!

I invite you to check it out at handyprohomeprojects.com

02/16/2026

Details matter. 🛠️

​For this 36" wainscoting project, we went with 3.5" vertical battens and a sleek 1.5" top rail to keep the proportions elegant and modern.

​Every edge has been sealed and prepped to ensure a glass-smooth finish when the paint hits.

It’s the extra steps in the prep work that make the final result look like it was built into the home from day one.
​Looking to upgrade a room in your
house? Let's talk!

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02/13/2026

Ever notice cracks appearing right where your wall meets your floor? Most builders use standard, rigid grout in these joints. The problem? Houses move! Between seasonal temperature changes and natural settling, that rigid grout has nowhere to go but... crack. 💥
​I recently tackled this exact issue for a client with a beautiful brick floor. Here was my process to ensure this joint stays sealed for years to come:

​Step 1: The Clean Out. I removed all the old, brittle, and failing grout. You can’t build a good fix on a bad foundation!

​Step 2: Proper Prepping. I cleaned the gap to ensure a perfect bond for the new materials.

​Step 3: The Secret Sauce (Backer Rod). I installed a foam backer rod. This provides a flexible base and ensures the sealant only sticks to the sides of the joint, allowing it to stretch and move without tearing.

​Step 4: Silicone Grout. I finished the joint with a high-quality silicone grout. Unlike regular grout, this is waterproof and flexible, meaning no more cracks—ever.

​The Result? A clean, professional finish that actually moves with your home instead of fighting against it. 🏠✨

​If your grout is crumbling or you’re seeing gaps in your flooring, don't just patch it with more of the same. Get it fixed right the first time!

​DM me for a free estimate on your next home repair!
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