How much does an entry door installation typically cost?

Although there a multiple factors which can increase the cost of replacing your entry doors, budget friendly options start at around $1200 with installation of a Fiberglass door, and go up to as much as $5000 or more for premium custom doors, in which you have many options for maximum aesthetics and curb-appeal.

How long does it take to install a new entry door?

At Composite Carpentry, we always ensure that your new door goes in on the same day the old one is removed. The entire process usually takes 1-2 days to finish up all the finer details and get everything looking just right on both the interior and exterior sides of your door.

Which is a better door choice, fiberglass or steel?

Composite Carpentry generally recommends Fiberglass exterior doors - which offer a versatile aesthetic, resembling natural wood grain and requiring minimal maintenance. They come with a higher price tag, but are more durable, resistant to wear, and provide great insulation. On the other hand, steel doors are a cost-effective choice known for their strength and security. They come with foam core insulation for energy efficiency and can be easily repainted. However, they dent relatively easily and can rust if the finish is compromised. They also don't offer the wood-like appearance of fiberglass. When choosing between the two, homeowners should weigh aesthetics and durability against cost and security.

How much does it cost to install new siding on a home?

For premium LP Smart Siding or James Hardie, installation can cost $20,000-$30,000 for a 2400sqft ranch home.

How long does siding installation typically take?

Including demolition and new housewrap, new siding installations typically take anywhere from 2-4 weeks.

How much does a kitchen remodel cost?

There are many factors that go into pricing your kitchen remodel - do any walls need to be removed or reframed? Will we be replacing the flooring or windows? Can your existing cabinets be refinished? That being said, an average budget of around $35,000-$45,000 is enough for a high quality kitchen remodel in many situations (with new cabinets, granite or quartz countertops, appliances, etc.) However every situation is different and when it comes to kitchens, there are many decisions to be made - based on not only the vision of the homeowner but also the circumstances of the home.

How long does a kitchen remodel typically take?

There are many parts and pieces to coordinate in a kitchen remodel - plumbing, electrical, cabinets, countertops, appliances. After decisions and proper planning, you can expect your kitchen remodel to take 2-3 months. At Composite Carpentry, we work very hard to coordinate with you to ensure that you and your household can function well and comfortably during the time that you wait for your new kitchen.

What are some popular kitchen design trends to consider for my remodel?

Kitchen design trends evolve over time, but some popular elements include open concept layouts, kitchen islands with seating, shaker-style cabinets, quartz or marble countertops, stainless steel appliances, and energy-efficient lighting. However, it's important to choose design elements that align with your personal style and functional needs rather than just following trends.

How much does it cost to finish a basement?

Finishing the average basement using some of the more popular material choices can be expected to cost anywhere from $40,000-$60,000 on average.

How long does it take to finish a basement?

Similar to kitchens, there are a lot of parts and pieces to coordinate with finishing a basement and the process can take anywhere from 1-3 months.

How much will it cost to replace the trim and doors in my home?

When it comes to putting together a budget for the trim package in your home, you can start with a basic quality trim package or you can spend as much as you’d like - it all depends on the depth and complexity you are trying to create in your living space. The largest initial factor in determining your budget is material choice - with primed pine being the more budget friendly choice compared to high end stained-finishes on oak, cherry or maple. For the quality trim package that Composite Carpentry recommends as a starting point, you are generally looking at around $1000 dollars per door and $900 per 225sqft room of baseboard and door casing - with materials, labor and painting included (solid-core doors with solid painted pine trim.)

What different trim styles should I consider?

There are 5 major interior trim styles that are most popular today - traditional/colonial, craftsman, farmhouse, ranch, and modern. Traditional/Colonial: Characterized by decorative and symmetrical designs, this style often features intricate moldings and is reminiscent of early American architecture. Craftsman: Known for its simple, clean lines and often an emphasis on natural wood and handcrafted details. Farmhouse: Evokes a rustic feel with wider, flat trims and often uses distressed or reclaimed wood, reflecting the homey and practical aesthetics of countryside living. Ranch: Typically minimalistic with slim, unembellished moldings, the ranch style is a nod to the mid-century modern homes of the 1950s and 1960s. Modern: Defined by its sleek and unadorned surfaces, modern trim focuses on straight lines and geometric forms, often integrating materials like metal or glass for a contemporary finish. Each of these styles is associated with its own choices of door style, and many offer the opportunity to add layers of more complexity and detail to accent your home.

What are the different door styles to choose from?

Before we discuss door styles, it’s important to discuss build-quality. And when it comes to doors, we recommend Solid-Core doors at the very minimum. They are much more durable, can significantly improve security, and they reduce noise transfer between rooms when compared to Hollow-Core doors. That being said, choosing door styles can be a lot of fun. Naturally, your door style will tie in closely with the style of trim package you have envisioned, and there are multiple door styles to choose from within each trim package. Overall, door choices are associated with the same five trim styles: Traditional/Colonial, Ranch, Farmhouse, Modern, or Craftsman being the most popular.

Which materials are the best choice for the trim in my home?

When choosing the right materials for the finish work in your home, you should first determine if you’d like a painted or stained trim look. For paint-grade trim, we typically recommend to go with primed pine. It has an attractive price point for a real wood product that of course is durable and finishes beautifully with a quality paint job —-If you are wanting to upgrade to top quality paint-grade trim, poplar is the best option. It is the top choice for premium quality paint finishes, is more durable than pine as it’s considered a hardwood, and it holds really nice, clean crisp edges in its trim profiles. Price is as much as double that of primed pine, but especially when it comes to stair parts, centerpieces such as fireplace surrounds, or other finish work requiring fine detail, poplar is often worth it. For stain-grade trim jobs, the most popular choices are maple, white oak, red oak, cherry, walnut, mahogany and poplar. All are considered hardwoods, and therefore the finished look is the biggest consideration when selecting a material. Pine is known for not taking stain well and therefore not a good choice for stained trim. We do recommend going with a PVC trim in certain situations such as small bathrooms. This is the best way to ensure a high quality finished product for years to come. MDF is a fully manufactured product that we avoid using at all costs. It is a very popular paint-grade trim choice due to its low cost and similarities to real wood, but it simply cannot match the quality that comes from a solid-wood trim install.

How much does a composite deck cost?

As with all projects, costs can vary depending on a variety of factors. Our average cost for a 400-500sq ft deck with framing, stairs, composite railings and skirting in the Bloomington-Normal area ranges anywhere from $25,000-$40,000.

What is composite decking made of, and how does it compare to wood?

Composite decking is generally made up of a few different materials: wood fibers, recycled plastics, binders, additives and often a PVC coating on top. Some decking lines are made up of up to 95% recycled materials, and Trex states that their average 500sqft deck contains 140,000 recycled plastic bags! Composite decking, made often from recycled materials, offers a durable and low-maintenance alternative, lasting 25-30 years with consistent appearance. In contrast, treated wood decking provides a natural wood look but requires regular upkeep, such as staining and sealing, and typically has a lifespan of 10-15 years. While composite decking has a higher upfront cost, its reduced maintenance can make it more cost-effective in the long run. The choice between the two often hinges on personal preference, budget, and desired maintenance commitment.

How do I clean and maintain a composite deck?

Composite decking can easily be cleaned with good old-fashioned soap and a soft-bristle brush. It can also be pressure washed at a low setting (under 1500psi.)

Do composite decks get hot in the sun?

The short answer is yes, composite decking can get hot in the sun. This of course can be remedied by your color selection - as darker colors will hold more heat from the sun than lighter colors will. There are also products such as TimberTech’s Advanced PVC decking (which comes at a higher cost) manufactured to remain 30° cooler than competing composite products.

What is the lifespan of a composite deck?

Here at Composite Carpentry we always recommend to go with a high quality composite deck manufacturer like Trex or TimberTech. Trex offers a 25 year color/fade warranty on their decking and Timbertech offers a 30 year color/fade warranty. These warranties guarantee the decking will look just the same at year 25 or 30 as they did on day 1.

How to Set Up a Dedicated Baking Station in Any Kitchen

If you’re an avid baker, you know how quickly tools, ingredients, and space can become chaotic during a baking session. Setting up a dedicated baking station can transform your kitchen into a haven for creativity and efficiency. Imagine a clutter-free area where your rolling pins, mixers, and flour are always within reach. Not only does it save time, but it also makes baking more enjoyable and less stressful.

**Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your Baking Station**

Assessing Your Kitchen Layout

Every kitchen is different, so the first step is to evaluate your available space. Do you have a free corner on your countertop? Or maybe a section of your kitchen island? Even in small kitchens, a baking station can be achieved with clever planning.

For instance, if your kitchen has a nook or an underutilized cabinet, consider converting it into your go-to baking zone. In larger kitchens, dedicating a part of your island or counter close to an outlet is ideal.

Ideal Locations for Maximum Efficiency

Think about proximity to your tools and ingredients. For example, positioning your baking station near your pantry or refrigerator ensures quick access to perishable and dry ingredients. If possible, choose a spot with natural light—perfect for decorating cakes or capturing Instagram-worthy photos of your creations!

**Essential Features of a Functional Baking Station**

Dedicated Counter Space

Baking requires room to roll, knead, and spread. Aim for at least two feet of uninterrupted counter space. For bakers in smaller kitchens, consider using a pull-out board or a foldable countertop extension to maximize your workspace.

Proper Lighting for Precision

Lighting is crucial when measuring ingredients or decorating intricate designs. Overhead LED lights or under-cabinet lighting work wonders. If you bake often in the evening, ensure your station is well-lit to avoid mistakes like confusing sugar with salt.

Best Materials for Your Baking Station Setup

Countertop Options for Rolling and Kneading

Marble is a baker’s dream surface due to its naturally cool properties, perfect for rolling dough. However, it can be pricey. A more budget-friendly option is a silicone pastry mat, which can be placed over any countertop.

For instance, a home baker on a budget might use their existing laminate counter with a large silicone mat for kneading dough. It’s affordable, non-slip, and easy to clean.

Heat-Resistant and Easy-to-Clean Surfaces

Baking often involves hot trays and sticky ingredients. Opt for surfaces like quartz or granite, which are heat-resistant and easy to wipe down. Avoid wooden countertops in this area, as flour and dough can easily get stuck in the grain.

Smart Storage Solutions for Baking Tools and Ingredients

Organizing Your Baking Tools: Shelves, Drawers, and Racks

Group your tools by frequency of use. Store everyday essentials like rolling pins, spatulas, and measuring cups in easy-to-reach drawers or a countertop caddy. Install a pegboard above your station to hang tools like whisks and sieves.

For example, one baker used drawer dividers to keep cookie cutters and pastry tips neatly organized, saving her time digging through cluttered drawers.

Creating an Efficient Pantry for Dry Ingredients

Invest in clear, airtight containers for flour, sugar, and other baking staples. Label them for quick identification and stack them neatly in your pantry. If space is limited, consider a rolling cart with shelves to hold your ingredients and tools in one portable solution.

**Appliances and Gadgets Every Baker Needs**

Choosing the Right Mixer, Scales, and Ovens

A stand mixer is a must-have for serious bakers. If space is tight, opt for a compact model. Digital scales ensure precise measurements, which are key to baking success. Finally, ensure your oven is reliable and calibrated correctly for consistent results.

Must-Have Small Appliances for a Baker’s Station

Include items like a hand mixer for quick tasks, a food processor for pie crusts, and a toaster oven for small batches. These appliances can be stored on pull-out shelves or in nearby cabinets for convenience.

Designing a Baking Station in a Small Kitchen

Space-Saving Hacks for Compact Kitchens

For small kitchens, consider a wall-mounted drop-leaf table that doubles as a baking station. Alternatively, a rolling kitchen cart can serve as a mobile workstation that you can tuck away when not in use.

Utilizing Vertical Space and Multi-Functional Furniture

Add shelves above your baking station to store mixing bowls and measuring cups. Magnetic strips on walls can hold metal tools like knives and scissors. Multi-functional furniture, like a kitchen island with built-in storage, can also maximize space.

Personalizing Your Baking Station for Your Needs

Adding Decorative and Functional Elements

Customize your station with items that inspire you. Add a chalkboard for jotting down recipes or a small herb planter for fresh garnish. Personal touches like these make your baking station both practical and inviting.

Maintaining a Clean and Organized Setup

Clean as you go to keep your station tidy. Use drawer liners to prevent spills from staining and a small handheld vacuum for quick cleanup of flour and crumbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up a Baking Station

Overcrowding the Space

Avoid filling every inch with tools and ingredients. Leave enough room to work comfortably. Remember, minimalism can lead to greater efficiency.

Ignoring Workflow and Accessibility

Ensure your most-used items are within arm’s reach. Avoid placing heavy appliances in hard-to-reach areas. For example, storing your stand mixer on a low pull-out shelf makes it easier to lift.

Conclusion: Elevating Your Baking Experience with the Right Setup

A dedicated baking station is more than a luxury; it’s a game-changer for anyone who loves to bake. By planning your layout, choosing the right materials, and organizing your tools efficiently, you’ll create a space that makes baking seamless and enjoyable. Whether you’re kneading dough or decorating cookies, your baking station will be the heart of your kitchen—designed by you, for you.

Ready to roll out your dough in style? Start setting up your baking station today and enjoy the sweet rewards of a well-planned space!

How to Set Up a Dedicated Baking Station in Any Kitchen