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Tim Leahy

Tim Leahy has spent over 10 years running a finishing crew at Kirby Perkins Construction in Newport, R.I. With a son in college and two daughters in high school, he spends much of his time working (in anticipation of future tuition payments) and not enough time repairing and refinishing antique furniture, skiing, cooking, or improving his golf game.

How it Works: Paint Failure Troubleshooting Tips

Paint failure not only looks bad, but it invites water and weather inside.
Master Carpenter: Painting Trim the Right Way

Pro painter Tim Leahy and his crew use these time-saving techniques to meet the demanding schedules and standards of painting high-end homes in Newport, R.I.
Painting Trim the Right Way

A pro painter shares 8 essential steps to get a smooth, blemish-free finish when painting molding.
How to Fix Peeling Garage Doors

Q: I need some advice on refinishing an overhead garage door. I built the door using plywood for the panels and clear pine for the stiles and rails. Each horizontal…
Make Old Walls Smooth and Sound

Cracks, peeling paint, and bad patches disappear with a wide roll of adhesive mesh and two thin coats of joint compound.
Patching Holes in Siding

Fast-drying and easy-sanding fillers make this job go much more smoothly.
Cut In Stain at the Ceiling

Stain and finish the trim first, and then paint the ceiling.
Finishing Secrets for Furniture-Grade Trim

Whether you’re staining a door, built-in cabinetry, or the millwork in between, follow these steps for a flawless finish.
The path to a perfect finish

Q: I accidentally thinned a latex enamel with paint thinner. To my surprise, it brushes much better and seems to dry only a little more slowly. Unlike “latex conditioners,” it…
A Classic Finish for a New Wood Floor

Layering stain, shellac, glaze, and polyurethane creates a gorgeous look with an old-style feel.