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About Paugh Handyman and Painting Emerald Isle NC
Holly Paugh runs Paugh Handyman and Painting out of Swansboro, and he handles the work himself for homeowners across Emerald Isle and the nearby coastal towns. He has spent more than 30 years painting and repairing homes, and much of that work now happens in vacation rentals and beach cottages where salt air is hard on paint, doors, and window seals. Most jobs start with a walkthrough and a free estimate, and Holly offers Online Estimates so clients can plan a project without waiting around. He takes on interior and exterior painting, cabinet and door painting, and finishes like wood staining and varnishing, and he folds wallpaper removal and trim work into the same visit when it makes sense. When a home needs more than paint, he repairs drywall and water damage, reseals windows, mends decks and railings, and works through the odd carpentry and repair items that pile up on a to-do list. Neighbors tend to keep his number, calling him back for the next project and passing it along to friends nearby.Updated: 08-15-2026
Customer Experience Q&A
What kinds of projects does Paugh Handyman and Painting take on?
The work spans painting and a wide run of home repairs, from carpentry and drywall to hanging fixtures and fixing stubborn doors. Julia McFadyen described jobs that ran from a stuck front door to a light fixture and called Holly the one she goes to for painting on down to "the smallest job". Small to medium projects around the house are the sweet spot.
Is Paugh Handyman and Painting reliable about showing up on time?
Yes, punctuality comes up again and again across the reviews. Courtney Christopher wrote that the work is "Always on time" with impeccable quality, and JL Hargrave noted that Holly "showed up on time" to remove blinds and window treatments before a window replacement. Reviewers pair that timeliness with quick, careful work and a heads up by call or text when plans shift.
How responsive is Paugh Handyman and Painting when you reach out?
Very responsive, going by the accounts of people who called for help. JT Howington said Holly was "extremely responsive" on repairs at a rental property and praised the fair prices and fantastic work. Erik Dayhoff found him "easy to communicate with" and was happy with the finished paint. Several reviewers mention quick replies and a call or text when timing needs to change.