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.

Liven up your Outdoor Space with the Best Composite Deck Builders in Bloomington

Looking for expert composite decking builders? At Composite Carpentry, we have the experience and the expertise to transform your outdoor living space while adding beauty and functionality to your home. We specialize in composite deck installation and can provide you with a durable, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing addition to your home.

Looking for reliable and quality services for deck construction? Call us today!

Deck Building: Composite Decking

Composite Deck Builds

Decks are more than just an extension of a home; they're a space that should be designed to draw you and your family outdoors. At Composite Carpentry, we specialize in composite decks — a modern, durable solution for those who want minimal maintenance without compromising on aesthetics.

Composite decking offers the beauty of wood without its drawbacks. No warping, no fading, and no constant upkeep. Just a solid, beautiful platform that stands up to the elements, year after year.

Enhanced durability

Trex Deck Builders

Trex decking is renowned for its durability, eco-friendly composition, and attractive designs. Investing in a Trex deck means investing in your home and, more importantly, your weekends!

Choosing the perfect partner from the beginning can significantly impact your satisfaction and ensure you get precisely what you desire out of your deck project.

As premium certified Trex deck builders at Composite Carpentry, we have the expertise to design and construct even the most complex outdoor Trex decking projects. We use only top-of-the-line materials to create enduring and stunning outdoor spaces. You can easily rely on our skilled team to bring the incomparable quality of Trex decking to your home.

Whether you have a specific design in mind or need guidance on selecting the perfect design for your composite deck, our team is here to guide you through every step of the installation process.

Minimal upkeep required

Extensive selection of stylish choices

Composite Deck Installation

Our team understands the ins and outs of deck design and construction. Whether you have a clear vision or need some guidance, we're here to help. From the initial design phase to the final screw, we ensure every aspect of the project meets our high standards and your expectations.

Choose Composite Carpentry for a deck that not only looks good on day one but continues to impress for years to come.

Get Superior Services from Deck Contractors in Bloomington

Do not accept ordinary options for your deck!

Why settle for a run-of-the-mill deck when you can enjoy an exceptional one? Composite Carpentry specializes in revitalizing your outdoor space. With a team of experienced and knowledgeable builders, we bring years of expertise to turn your outdoor space into a stunning retreat that you will continue to admire for years to come.

Ready to see your outdoor transformation finally come to life? Contact us to get a complimentary estimate and discuss with us the possibilities for your deck and outdoor space.

FAQs

Composite decking offers several advantages over traditional wood, including minimal maintenance, resistance to rot and insects, and superior durability. As your premium deck contractor, Composite Carpentry specializes in creating composite decks that retain their beauty for years without the need for constant upkeep.
The real benefit of composite decks lies in their minimal maintenance requirements. You simply have to ensure that you regularly clear away debris, including dirt, dust, or leaves. For a more thorough cleaning, also use a brush, hose, and a mild household cleaner at least twice a year. It is also important to avoid using power washers at too high of a setting, as they can cause damage to the deck. Unlike wooden decks, composite decking eliminates the need for staining, waterproofing, or sealing.
Given that the deck material is infused with a lasting dye, the life span of which will match the deck's lifespan, we advise against painting or staining your composite deck. This material can also be very difficult for paint to bond to. If you choose to paint or stain the deck, please note that it will need consistent upkeep, similar to the maintenance required for wooden decks.
The expansion and contraction of composite decking are affected by temperature variations. The specific amount of expansion or contraction may vary based on the temperature difference during installation and the maximum temperature in your local area. As a general rule, it is advisable to leave gaps of 3/16 inch to ¼ inch between the boards. This gap will accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of the material and facilitate the natural flow of dirt and water. As your expert deck builder, Composite Carpentry will ensure that the proper installation steps are taken to account for this expansion and contraction.

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.
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.
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.)
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.
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.