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.

Tips to Maintain Your Composite Deck for Long-Lasting Beauty

Jun 23

Written By Brian Engstrom

Picture this: a sunny day, a cool drink in hand, and your beautiful composite deck as the perfect spot to relax.

Sounds great, right?

But to keep your deck looking this amazing year after year, it needs a little TLC.

Don’t worry—it’s easier than you think!

Composite decks are built to last, but regular care can make sure they stay as stunning as the day they were installed. In this blog, we’ll share simple tips to help you maintain your composite deck and keep it looking great for years to come.

Let’s dive in!

Understanding Composite Decking

Composite decking is a new and innovative material made from a combination of recycled wood fibers and plastic. It offers a durable and long-lasting alternative to traditional wooden decks. This engineered material combines the natural appeal of wood with advanced polymer technology, resulting in a deck material that stands up to harsh weather conditions.

Key Components of Composite Decking:

Recycled wood fibers (40-60%)

Plastic materials (40-60%)

UV inhibitors

Bonding agents

Color pigments

Unlike traditional wood decking, which requires regular maintenance such as staining and sealing, composite decking eliminates these time-consuming tasks. It is designed to resist rotting, splintering, and insect damage, making it a low-maintenance option that retains its appearance year after year.

Advantages of Composite Materials:

Resistant to rotting, splintering, and insect damage

No need for staining or sealing

Available in diverse colors and textures

Maintains color integrity with UV protection

Eco-friendly option using recycled materials

25-30 year average lifespan

While the initial cost of composite decking is typically higher than that of traditional wood (about 15-20% more), this expense is balanced out over time by the savings on maintenance costs and the longer lifespan of composite materials. Your composite deck requires minimal upkeep while providing lasting beauty and functionality for decades.

When planning your composite deck installation, it's crucial to find the best deck contractor for your dream outdoor space. These professionals not only provide top-notch service but also guide you in selecting the right materials for your project.

In addition to decking, if you're considering other home improvement projects such as kitchen remodeling, remember that hiring a professional can significantly enhance the outcome. A fully custom kitchen remodel completed by experts can transform your space into a blend of form and function.

1. Regular Cleaning Practices

A consistent cleaning routine protects your composite deck investment. Leaves, dirt, and organic debris can create stubborn stains when left unattended, potentially damaging your deck's surface.

Essential Cleaning Tools:

Soft-bristled broom

Leaf blower

Garden hose

Non-metal snow shovel (for winter maintenance)

Gentle cleaning solution

Recommended Cleaning Schedule:

Weekly sweeping to remove loose debris

Monthly thorough cleaning with soap and water

Immediate cleanup of spills and fallen leaves

Seasonal deep cleaning (spring and fall)

Your deck needs space to breathe - keep the surface clear of planters, furniture, and rugs. Rotate these items periodically to prevent uneven weathering and color variations. When cleaning, work in small sections using gentle, circular motions. Harsh scrubbing can damage the protective layer of your composite decking.

Remember to check between deck boards for accumulated debris. These gaps serve as crucial drainage channels and keeping them clear prevents water damage and mold growth.

2. Addressing Stains Promptly

Your composite deck can face various staining challenges from everyday activities. Here's how to tackle common stains effectively:

Common Stain Types:

Red wine and coffee spills

Grease from grilling

Tree sap and leaves

Mold and mildew spots

Food residue

Quick Stain Removal Guide:

Blot the stain immediately with a dry cloth

Mix mild dish soap with warm water

Gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush

Rinse thoroughly with clean water

Dry the area completely

Pro Tips:

Never use bleach or abrasive cleaners

Test cleaning solutions on a small, hidden area first

Keep cleaning supplies readily available

Address stains within 24-48 hours for best results

For stubborn stains, specialized composite deck cleaners can provide extra cleaning power without damaging your deck's surface. Remember: swift action prevents permanent staining and maintains your deck's beautiful appearance.

Conclusion

Your composite deck is more than just an outdoor space—it’s a place for relaxation, gatherings, and making memories. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your deck looking beautiful and functioning perfectly for years to come. Regular cleaning, proper care, and a little attention to detail will not only preserve its stunning appearance but also ensure it remains a durable and safe spot for all your activities.

Investing a bit of time now will save you from costly repairs or replacements later, making your deck a true long-term asset to your home. Whether it’s seasonal upkeep or quick clean-ups after a busy weekend, maintaining your composite deck doesn’t have to be a hassle. With these tips in mind, you’ll enjoy a deck that’s as inviting and beautiful as the day it was installed.

So, get started today and let your deck shine!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Composite decking is a man-made building product that combines wood fibers and plastic. It offers enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal compared to traditional wood decking.
Composite decking is generally more durable than traditional wood, as it resists fading, staining, and mold. Additionally, it requires less maintenance over time, making it a popular choice for homeowners.
Proper maintenance of a composite deck ensures its longevity and preserves its aesthetic appeal. Regular care helps prevent grime buildup, stains, and damage from environmental factors.
Recommended tools for effective cleaning include brooms for sweeping debris and blowers for removing leaves and dirt. These tools help maintain the deck's appearance and prevent grime accumulation.
It is advisable to clean your composite deck regularly to prevent grime buildup. Depending on your environment, cleaning every few months may be sufficient, while high-traffic areas may require more frequent attention.
To address stains promptly, use a mild soap solution with a soft cloth. Common types of stains include food or drink spills. Acting quickly can help prevent the stain from setting in.

Brian Engstrom

Tips to Maintain Your Composite Deck for Long-Lasting Beauty

Understanding Composite Decking

Key Components of Composite Decking:

Advantages of Composite Materials:

1. Regular Cleaning Practices

2. Addressing Stains Promptly

Common Stain Types:

Quick Stain Removal Guide:

Pro Tips:

Conclusion

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

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Tips to Maintain Your Composite Deck for Long-Lasting Beauty

Understanding Composite Decking

Key Components of Composite Decking:

Advantages of Composite Materials:

1. Regular Cleaning Practices

2. Addressing Stains Promptly

Common Stain Types:

Quick Stain Removal Guide:

Pro Tips:

Conclusion

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is composite decking?

How does composite decking compare to traditional wood decking?

What are the benefits of maintaining a composite deck?

What tools are recommended for cleaning a composite deck?

How often should I clean my composite deck?

What steps should I take to address stains on my composite deck?

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Composite Decking Builders

Follow Us

Quick Links

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Contact Us