FAQ

Do you only work with builders on new construction?

That is the bulk of our business, and we welcome the chance to do estimates for any builder's project anywhere in the greater Chicago area. But, no, we are not exclusive to home or commercial builders only.

How soon can you start on my staircase?

Depending on a few choices we will ask you to make, in most cases where we are replacing a stair, we can usually start within the week. If new construction we will need to co-ordinate ourselves into the project. But a good rule of thumb is - once the drywall is up, we should be able to get going.

How expensive is your service?

All of our prices depend on the configuration of the stair, as well as the material and labor needed to build it. Unless you ask for a specific alteration in the plan when we are still in the building process the price we quote is the price you pay. There are no hidden charges in our estimates, nor are we quoting materials of lesser quality only to tell you "well if I knew you wanted that, I would have charged you more on the estimate." We assume you want the best products right from the start. This, by the way, is one reason you might want to be a little cautious about estimates that seem to be "too good to be true."

What if I want something very unusual - an exotic wood or specially-designed balusters? Can you do that?

Yes. We have nationwide contacts throughout the industry that can help us find what you're looking for. But there are things you should know - The more exotic you get, the longer the time frame will be to find and obtain the specific products. Plus, remember, there are some species of wood that simply will not work in the construction of stairs. Some extra-hard tropical woods contain a high resin or natural moisture content that will make them resistant to gluing. Others may be perfectly fine for flooring, but be too hard to mill into a profile for rail. This is why before you pick out your flooring you should find out what species can and can't be made into stairs.

I'm a homeowner and I want to install my own staircase. What can you do for me?

First, we can provide you with parts that will be a step above what you can find at any of the big stores. They will carry basic products, but if you want an upgrade they have to order it (they may even call us to see if we have it). We have the upscale material. Call us first. But secondly, we can't do a measurement for you. We only do that when we install. We can't replace parts you may have cut wrong or tried to put in and discovered was the wrong piece, and any product you've stained or altered or cut in any way can't be returned. We stay away from giving advice because every staircase is different. Of course if you have us install it for you, we can answer our own questions!

I'm a trim carpenter and have a stair job. What can you do for me?

We'd like to see you back here to sell you parts for your next job - so provide us with a business card and we'll arrange some kind of industry discount with you for the parts we can supply you with. Other than that, though, the same rules apply as to the question above.