By MINDY KEPFIELD

Staff writer

Many homeowners had their eyes opened to the flaws and neglected upkeep of their castles as they sheltered in place.

Quite a few decided to do something about it, which has kept County Seat Decorating Center owners Brad and Jeannie Wildin consistently busy with appointments even with their store closed.

“When you stay home every day, you look around, and see what needs to be fixed up,” Jeannie Wildin said.

The Wildins have been called upon to help tackle “a little bit of everything” from countertops, backsplashes, and tile work to custom bathrooms and showers, she said.

New flooring has been popular, and word of County Seat’s installation service apparently has spread.

“We did gain some new customers during that period of time,” she said. “Someone actually came in and said, ‘My husband is going to be really glad when I go back to work.’ ”

The Wildins are willing to schedule weekend and after-hour meet-ups with clients.

Customers who visit their store have the option of wearing a mask. Staff members sanitize surfaces several times a day, she said.

Shaw, the store’s longtime cat in residence, is ready to be admired by anyone who drops by.

“He’s the one that is very thrilled that we are open again because of all the visitors,” she said.

The Wildins expect to keep busy both with new projects and remodels customers put off because of COVID-19 concerns.

“We had cases where we ordered the materials but the homeowner was not ready to have them installed,” she said. “So we agreed to wait until they were ready.”

Many are staying closer to home this summer, freeing up time and money for projects.

“Not traveling allows you to spend money on the place where you will be spending the most of your time,” she said.