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.

Precision-Built Carpentry for Kitchens, Decks, and Refined Interiors

Feb 25

Written By Brian Engstrom

When it comes to elevating the design and functionality of your home, precision-built carpentry is essential. Composite Carpentry specializes in crafting kitchens, decks, and interiors with meticulous attention to detail. From customized cabinetry to composite deck installations, the team focuses on blending aesthetics, durability, and practical design to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional.

In this blog, we’ll explore the various aspects of precision carpentry, the benefits it brings to your home, and practical considerations for homeowners planning kitchen renovations, deck installations, or interior refinements.

What Is Precision-Built Carpentry?

Precision-built carpentry refers to woodworking and construction that emphasizes accuracy, detailed craftsmanship, and a high level of customization. Unlike standard carpentry, which may follow generalized templates, precision carpentry considers the exact dimensions, materials, and design preferences of each project.

Key characteristics of precision-built carpentry include:

Custom Fit: Every element is tailored to the space, ensuring seamless integration.
Durable Materials: High-quality woods, composites, and finishing materials extend the lifespan of the structure.
Functional Design: Beyond aesthetics, precision carpentry focuses on usability and ergonomics.

Precision carpentry is widely applied in kitchen renovations, deck installations, and interior upgrades such as built-in shelving, custom trim, and wall paneling.

Precision Carpentry for Kitchens

Kitchens are the heart of the home, where both function and style are crucial. Precision carpentry ensures that every cabinet, countertop, and island fits perfectly and functions efficiently.

Customized Cabinetry and Storage

One of the primary benefits of precision carpentry in kitchens is the ability to create customized cabinetry. Cabinets can be designed to maximize storage, fit unique kitchen layouts, and incorporate innovative features like pull-out shelves, hidden compartments, or soft-close drawers.

Countertops and Islands

Precision-built countertops and kitchen islands not only improve usability but also enhance visual appeal. Carpenters can design integrated cutting boards, specialized seating, and bespoke finishes to complement the overall kitchen design.

Integration with Appliances

Modern kitchens often require precise alignment with appliances such as ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators. Precision carpentry ensures appliances fit seamlessly into cabinetry, avoiding gaps or misalignment.

Deck Construction with Precision Carpentry

Outdoor living spaces, particularly decks, are increasingly seen as extensions of the home. Precision carpentry plays a crucial role in ensuring decks are safe, durable, and visually appealing.

Composite Decks for Longevity

Composite decking materials are a popular choice due to their resistance to rot, weathering, and maintenance requirements. Precision-built composite decks maintain structural integrity and provide a refined finish. For examples of composite deck projects, visit Composite Decks Services.

Safety and Stability

Precision carpentry ensures that all structural components, from support beams to railings, are accurately installed. This prevents long-term issues like sagging, warping, or instability while enhancing the deck’s overall aesthetic.

Custom Features

Decks often feature custom elements such as built-in seating, planters, or integrated lighting. Precision carpentry allows these elements to blend seamlessly with the deck’s structure, creating a cohesive design.

Refining Interiors with Precision Carpentry

Beyond kitchens and decks, precision carpentry is invaluable for interior home improvements. Custom woodwork enhances both function and style across living spaces.

Custom Trim and Moldings

Custom trim, crown molding, and baseboards can dramatically elevate the look of a room. Precision carpentry ensures clean lines, tight joints, and consistent finishes.

Built-In Storage and Shelving

From bookcases to media centers, built-in storage solutions maximize space without compromising design. Precision carpentry allows these elements to be tailored specifically to room dimensions and homeowner needs.

Wall Paneling and Decorative Elements

Decorative wood paneling, wainscoting, and accent features add depth and character to interiors. Expert carpenters ensure these elements are aligned, proportionate, and flawlessly finished.

Benefits of Precision Carpentry

Choosing precision-built carpentry for your home projects offers numerous advantages:

Enhanced Aesthetics: Clean lines, accurate measurements, and tailored finishes improve overall visual appeal.
Increased Functionality: Custom designs optimize storage, workflow, and usability.
Durability: High-quality materials and precise installation reduce maintenance and increase longevity.
Property Value: Thoughtful, refined carpentry enhances the home’s market appeal.

For inspiration on how custom carpentry projects can transform a home, check out this blog on enhancing your home.

Choosing the Right Carpenter for Your Project

Selecting a skilled carpenter is essential for achieving high-quality results. Consider the following:

Experience with Similar Projects: Look for a portfolio demonstrating kitchen, deck, and interior projects.
Attention to Detail: Precision carpentry requires meticulous measurement and craftsmanship.
Knowledge of Materials: A professional should recommend durable, sustainable options suitable for your needs.
Clear Communication: Ensure your goals and design preferences are understood and incorporated.

Composite Carpentry provides professional services in Bloomington, offering expertise in kitchen renovations, composite decks, siding, and interior refinements.

Conclusion

Precision-built carpentry transforms homes through careful design, custom solutions, and expert craftsmanship. Whether renovating a kitchen, installing a composite deck, or refining interior spaces, the results are functional, durable, and visually appealing.

For homeowners seeking professional precision carpentry services, Composite Carpentry offers extensive experience in Bloomington, delivering high-quality results that meet both aesthetic and practical needs.

FAQ About Precision-Built Carpentry

Kitchens, decks, built-in shelving, custom cabinetry, trim work, and decorative interior elements all benefit from precision carpentry due to its accuracy and attention to detail.
Project timelines vary based on complexity, material selection, and size. Kitchen renovations may take several weeks, while deck installations can range from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Initial costs may be higher for composite decks, but they offer long-term benefits such as low maintenance, durability, and resistance to weather, often making them more cost-effective over time.
Yes. Well-crafted cabinetry, decks, and interior woodwork enhance the home’s aesthetics, functionality, and perceived quality, which can increase market value.
Regular cleaning, periodic inspections, and following material-specific care instructions (e.g., sealing or treating wood surfaces) help maintain the quality and appearance of precision-built carpentry.

Brian Engstrom

Precision-Built Carpentry for Kitchens, Decks, and Refined Interiors

What Is Precision-Built Carpentry?

Precision Carpentry for Kitchens

Customized Cabinetry and Storage

Countertops and Islands

Integration with Appliances

Deck Construction with Precision Carpentry

Composite Decks for Longevity

Safety and Stability

Custom Features

Refining Interiors with Precision Carpentry

Custom Trim and Moldings

Built-In Storage and Shelving

Wall Paneling and Decorative Elements

Benefits of Precision Carpentry

Choosing the Right Carpenter for Your Project

Conclusion

FAQ About Precision-Built Carpentry

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Precision-Built Carpentry for Kitchens, Decks, and Refined Interiors

What Is Precision-Built Carpentry?

Precision Carpentry for Kitchens

Customized Cabinetry and Storage

Countertops and Islands

Integration with Appliances

Deck Construction with Precision Carpentry

Composite Decks for Longevity

Safety and Stability

Custom Features

Refining Interiors with Precision Carpentry

Custom Trim and Moldings

Built-In Storage and Shelving

Wall Paneling and Decorative Elements

Benefits of Precision Carpentry

Choosing the Right Carpenter for Your Project

Conclusion

FAQ About Precision-Built Carpentry

What types of projects benefit most from precision carpentry?

How long does a precision carpentry project typically take?

Are composite decks more expensive than traditional wood decks?

Can precision carpentry improve home resale value?

How do I maintain precision-built woodwork?

From Winter Worn to Spring Ready: Real Project Transformations

Follow Us

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