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.

The Heart of Your Kitchen: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect Countertop

Nov 8

Written By Brian Engstrom

The kitchen is considered as the heart of our homes. Have you ever wondered if the kitchen itself has its own? It surely has— your kitchen countertop. It is not merely a surface; it's the beating heart of your culinary haven, the stage for your culinary adventures, and a reflection of your personal style. Whether you're embarking on a kitchen remodel or simply considering a countertop upgrade, this comprehensive guide will navigate you through the exciting journey of choosing the perfect kitchen countertop.

1. Understand Your Lifestyle

Begin by assessing your lifestyle and how you use your kitchen. Do you love to cook, bake, and experiment with new recipes? Or is your kitchen more of a gathering space for family and friends? Understanding your lifestyle will help you prioritize qualities like durability, maintenance, and aesthetics.

2. Explore Your Options

The world of kitchen countertops offers a diverse range of materials, each with its unique attributes. Some popular choices include:

Granite: Known for its natural beauty and durability, granite is heat and scratch-resistant. It's available in various colors and patterns, making each countertop unique.
Quartz: Engineered quartz countertops combine the look of natural stone with exceptional durability. They are non-porous, meaning they're resistant to stains and require minimal maintenance.
Marble: Marble exudes timeless elegance with its distinctive veining. However, it's more susceptible to staining and requires regular sealing.
Solid Surface: Solid surface countertops offer a seamless look, are easy to clean, and can be customized to your preferred shape and color.
Butcher Block: If you love a warm, rustic feel, butcher block countertops are perfect. They're great for food preparation but require periodic maintenance.
Concrete: Modern and industrial, concrete countertops can be customized in terms of color and texture. They need proper sealing to resist staining.
Laminate: Affordable and available in numerous designs, laminate countertops are budget-friendly and easy to maintain.

3. Consider Aesthetics

Your countertop choice should harmonize with your kitchen's overall aesthetics. Consider the color scheme, cabinetry, and backsplash when selecting a countertop material and color. The goal is to create a cohesive and visually pleasing kitchen design.

4. Factor in Durability

Durability is a crucial consideration, especially if you're an avid home chef. Consider the wear and tear your countertop will endure. Granite and quartz are known for their resilience, while marble and concrete may be more susceptible to scratches and stains.

5. Evaluate Maintenance Requirements

Different materials have varying maintenance needs. Some require regular sealing (e.g., granite, marble), while others are low-maintenance (e.g., quartz, solid surface). Be honest about your willingness and ability to perform maintenance tasks to keep your countertop in pristine condition.

6. Budget Wisely

Your budget plays a significant role in your countertop choice. Keep in mind that while some materials may have a higher upfront cost, they may save you money in maintenance and replacement costs over time.

7. Seek Professional Guidance

Consult with countertop professionals and suppliers who can provide expert advice, show you samples, and answer your questions. They can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and budget.

8. Visualize Your Dream Kitchen

Before making a final decision, visualize your dream kitchen with the chosen countertop. Consider how it will complement your lifestyle and enhance the overall functionality and beauty of your space.

Conclusion: Your Culinary Canvas

Choosing the perfect kitchen countertop is a deeply personal decision. It's not just about aesthetics or practicality; it's about creating a culinary canvas where you can explore, create, and savor the flavors of life. Take your moment, imagine those elegant and functional countertops, and analyze your options to achieve the dream kitchen that reflects your unique style.

Brian Engstrom

The Heart of Your Kitchen: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect Countertop

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The Heart of Your Kitchen: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect Countertop

Fiberglass vs. Steel Entry Doors: Which is Right for Your Home?

10 Small Renovations Perfect for the Holiday Season

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