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Avatar for Matrix Basement Finishing

Matrix Basement Finishing

3050 N Kennicott Ave
4.54(
275
)
Approved Pro

Matrix Basement Finishing

3050 N Kennicott Ave
4.54(
275
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
278 local quotes requested
16 years of experience

We are a locally owned and operated basement finishing specialist servicing the Chicagoland area. Our focus is providing clients with a clear, upfront vision of expectations through a design/build approach. Our free design service provides potential customers with a collaborative consultation geared towards budget, wants, needs and lifestyle.

"The basement looks amazing, the crew did an excellent job. They were efficient, kept to their schedules, and did great work."

Matthew R on October 2025

We are a locally owned and operated basement finishing specialist servicing the Chicagoland area. Our focus is providing clients with a clear, upfront vision of expectations through a design/build approach. Our free design service provides potential customers with a collaborative consultation geared towards budget, wants, needs and lifestyle.

"The basement looks amazing, the crew did an excellent job. They were efficient, kept to their schedules, and did great work."

Matthew R on October 2025


Avatar for Craftsman Builders Inc.

Craftsman Builders Inc.

16031 Aberdeen St
4.76(
17
)
Approved Pro

Craftsman Builders Inc.

16031 Aberdeen St
4.76(
17
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 94% of Angi customers
Recommended by 94% of HomeAdvisor customers
78 local quotes requested

EXPERIENCED BASEMENT REMODELING**Specializing and perfecting BASEMENT REMODELING for over 30 years!** You can trust in us! Family owned and operated spanning over three generations. We don't use subcontractors on our jobs, and I am personally there to work and oversee each and every job. We have our own licensed electrician and plumber, as well as a specialist in taping and mudding. We Pay Close Attention to Detail We believe that attention to detail and customer service sets us apart from our competition, allowing us to continue focusing on each client as if they were our only customer. We use metal studs in our framing work, and I will be happy to discuss with you why this should be the only framing material you should use in your basement. We recognize that our customers are making an investment in their homes, and it is very important to us that you have a good experience from the beginning to end. Not only professional and quality workmanship, but great customer service too.

"The name “Craftsman” is a stretch. My experience with this company was very disappointing. • The crew was careless — our basement was full of paint, and they didn’t bother laying down sheets to protect our brand-new vinyl floors. • They grabbed tools from our home (like push brooms) without asking and even washed their hands in our kitchen sink. • When asked to lay down a rug to protect the floor, they used a tiny piece that barely covered anything. • They expect prompt payment even while work is still pending. • When I couldn’t leave work for a final walkthrough, the owner showed up, got aggressive, and told my wife and child to go upstairs. Completely unprofessional. • They work very limited hours (roughly 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) and don’t accommodate your schedule. • They left all their trash — filled up our garbage cans and left extra bags behind. • Their paint job was sloppy. They sprayed instead of rolling, missed tons of spots, didn’t tape anything, and got paint on outlet covers and other areas. They ended up giving us a $200 credit for the poor quality. • The contract is vague by design — he refers back to it later to say something “isn’t included.” Definitely read the fine print carefully. • Charged us an extra $3,500 for inspection delays, yet still demanded full payment before the inspection was complete. • Constantly asked for cash payments (I only paid by check). • Damaged our shuffleboard table by setting tools on top without asking. • Didn’t install quarter round on the trim and didn’t fill nail holes — just another lazy shortcut. • Claims to have 30 years of experience, but experience doesn’t mean quality or professionalism. David and Mike seem overall respectable, Larry is the issue. • Overall, they rushed through the job, missed small details, and admitted they didn’t think we’d check their work with proper lighting. Summary: Expect shortcuts, poor communication, and lack of respect for your property. Definitely not the level of quality or professionalism you’d expect from someone calling themselves a “craftsman.” Pricing is ok but keep looking as you can probably find a match with much better customer service"

Adrian M on October 2025

EXPERIENCED BASEMENT REMODELING**Specializing and perfecting BASEMENT REMODELING for over 30 years!** You can trust in us! Family owned and operated spanning over three generations. We don't use subcontractors on our jobs, and I am personally there to work and oversee each and every job. We have our own licensed electrician and plumber, as well as a specialist in taping and mudding. We Pay Close Attention to Detail We believe that attention to detail and customer service sets us apart from our competition, allowing us to continue focusing on each client as if they were our only customer. We use metal studs in our framing work, and I will be happy to discuss with you why this should be the only framing material you should use in your basement. We recognize that our customers are making an investment in their homes, and it is very important to us that you have a good experience from the beginning to end. Not only professional and quality workmanship, but great customer service too.

"The name “Craftsman” is a stretch. My experience with this company was very disappointing. • The crew was careless — our basement was full of paint, and they didn’t bother laying down sheets to protect our brand-new vinyl floors. • They grabbed tools from our home (like push brooms) without asking and even washed their hands in our kitchen sink. • When asked to lay down a rug to protect the floor, they used a tiny piece that barely covered anything. • They expect prompt payment even while work is still pending. • When I couldn’t leave work for a final walkthrough, the owner showed up, got aggressive, and told my wife and child to go upstairs. Completely unprofessional. • They work very limited hours (roughly 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) and don’t accommodate your schedule. • They left all their trash — filled up our garbage cans and left extra bags behind. • Their paint job was sloppy. They sprayed instead of rolling, missed tons of spots, didn’t tape anything, and got paint on outlet covers and other areas. They ended up giving us a $200 credit for the poor quality. • The contract is vague by design — he refers back to it later to say something “isn’t included.” Definitely read the fine print carefully. • Charged us an extra $3,500 for inspection delays, yet still demanded full payment before the inspection was complete. • Constantly asked for cash payments (I only paid by check). • Damaged our shuffleboard table by setting tools on top without asking. • Didn’t install quarter round on the trim and didn’t fill nail holes — just another lazy shortcut. • Claims to have 30 years of experience, but experience doesn’t mean quality or professionalism. David and Mike seem overall respectable, Larry is the issue. • Overall, they rushed through the job, missed small details, and admitted they didn’t think we’d check their work with proper lighting. Summary: Expect shortcuts, poor communication, and lack of respect for your property. Definitely not the level of quality or professionalism you’d expect from someone calling themselves a “craftsman.” Pricing is ok but keep looking as you can probably find a match with much better customer service"

Adrian M on October 2025


Q M R Remodeling

17439 Woodbrook Ln
4.76(
46
)
Approved Pro

Q M R Remodeling

17439 Woodbrook Ln
4.76(
46
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 93% of Angi customers
Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers
433 local quotes requested

We have completed hundreds of home improvement projects in our twenty six years of business. Reach out by phone or visit our website to schedule a consultation. Thanks!

"Jeff had done beautiful work at my parents house so I was excited to use him for a kitchen remodel in my first home. He is always friendly, professional, and responsive. He can handle any kind of issue that may arise, such as the need to move an unexpected vent. For our kitchen he tore down a pantry closet and the soffit, installed new flooring, cabinets, backsplash, shelving, range hood, lighting. He has great recommendations and his attention to detail is impeccable. We highly recommend Jeff and his team for your project!"

Amy S on March 2025

We have completed hundreds of home improvement projects in our twenty six years of business. Reach out by phone or visit our website to schedule a consultation. Thanks!

"Jeff had done beautiful work at my parents house so I was excited to use him for a kitchen remodel in my first home. He is always friendly, professional, and responsive. He can handle any kind of issue that may arise, such as the need to move an unexpected vent. For our kitchen he tore down a pantry closet and the soffit, installed new flooring, cabinets, backsplash, shelving, range hood, lighting. He has great recommendations and his attention to detail is impeccable. We highly recommend Jeff and his team for your project!"

Amy S on March 2025


Avatar for Prime Bath

Prime Bath

660 S Broadway
4.96(
28
)
Approved Pro

Prime Bath

660 S Broadway
4.96(
28
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
1592 local quotes requested

Prime Baths and Home Solutions of Illinois is the leader in exceptional custom service for bathroom remodeling projects in the greater Chicagoland area! We provide excellent craftsmanship while offering very competitive pricing, as well as in house installers. No Sub -Contractors! We additionally offer products that are backed up with a lifetime warranty, and have incredible financing offers! Rates as low as 0%. Contact us today to set up a FREE in home quote. We look forward to hearing from you!

"The men made a great new shower area! They cleaned up as well! I called the office to try to arrange the balance of work. Haven’t heard back from anyone - but yes! The work great!"

Jean H on November 2024

Prime Baths and Home Solutions of Illinois is the leader in exceptional custom service for bathroom remodeling projects in the greater Chicagoland area! We provide excellent craftsmanship while offering very competitive pricing, as well as in house installers. No Sub -Contractors! We additionally offer products that are backed up with a lifetime warranty, and have incredible financing offers! Rates as low as 0%. Contact us today to set up a FREE in home quote. We look forward to hearing from you!

"The men made a great new shower area! They cleaned up as well! I called the office to try to arrange the balance of work. Haven’t heard back from anyone - but yes! The work great!"

Jean H on November 2024


Avatar for Genstone Construction

Genstone Construction

1267 Windham Parkway
5.00(
1
)
Approved Pro

Genstone Construction

1267 Windham Parkway
5.00(
1
)
Approved Pro
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
814 local quotes requested

At Genstone Construction, we bring over 40 years of expertise in bespoke home renovations crafted to reflect your vision, lifestyle, and standards. From gourmet kitchens and spa-inspired bathrooms to seamless additions and full-home transformations, our work is defined by timeless design, superior craftsmanship, and a client-first approach. Our elite team - comprised of seasoned Estimators, Field Managers, and Repair Specialists - delivers a seamless, concierge-level experience from concept to completion. Each project is managed with meticulous attention to detail, with a dedicated Field Manager ensuring daily progress, quality, and clear communication. We don’t ask for upfront payments - because trust is earned, not expected. Work begins only once permits are secured and materials are ready, ensuring complete transparency and confidence. Clients are fully protected with contractor liability insurance and receive lien waivers with each payment milestone. No two homes — or homeowners — are alike. That’s why every renovation begins with a deep understanding of your goals, preferences, and lifestyle. Our custom design-build process ensures a tailored renovation experience that delivers luxury without compromise and beauty without the burden.

"Fantastic experience. They did a great job. From initial contact to completion was under 2 weeks. Highly recommend."

Mike G on August 2024

At Genstone Construction, we bring over 40 years of expertise in bespoke home renovations crafted to reflect your vision, lifestyle, and standards. From gourmet kitchens and spa-inspired bathrooms to seamless additions and full-home transformations, our work is defined by timeless design, superior craftsmanship, and a client-first approach. Our elite team - comprised of seasoned Estimators, Field Managers, and Repair Specialists - delivers a seamless, concierge-level experience from concept to completion. Each project is managed with meticulous attention to detail, with a dedicated Field Manager ensuring daily progress, quality, and clear communication. We don’t ask for upfront payments - because trust is earned, not expected. Work begins only once permits are secured and materials are ready, ensuring complete transparency and confidence. Clients are fully protected with contractor liability insurance and receive lien waivers with each payment milestone. No two homes — or homeowners — are alike. That’s why every renovation begins with a deep understanding of your goals, preferences, and lifestyle. Our custom design-build process ensures a tailored renovation experience that delivers luxury without compromise and beauty without the burden.

"Fantastic experience. They did a great job. From initial contact to completion was under 2 weeks. Highly recommend."

Mike G on August 2024


Avatar for Century City Baths

Century City Baths

712 Thomas Drive
4.69(
29
)
Approved Pro

Century City Baths

712 Thomas Drive
4.69(
29
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 93% of Angi customers
Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers
1459 local quotes requested

Century City Baths is your one stop shop for all your bathroom remodel needs. Whether it's a tub to shower conversion, or an update to a moldy or out of date tub/shower system, or a full gut to your bathroom, we are the complete turn-key solution. Using only the highest quality and most durable materials we are able to design a bathroom that will truly last a lifetime and eliminate most maintenance. Our design consultants work hand-in-hand with our customers to make their dreams come true. Our production team works as a team with you and your design consultant to make the process as quick and efficient as possible. Serving all of Chicagoland, our business model has always been that the best customer is the one that is the most educated. That is why all of our estimates are free of charge and are good for a full calendar year. We are confident that the quality, design, longevity, and above all, affordability will make us a no-brainer to every customer. Book your no-obligation, completely free of charge consultation today, and you can have the bathroom of your dreams too!

"We recently remodeled the bathrooms in our vacation house, and Century City Baths did an incredible job. Since this isn’t our primary home, we needed spaces that were both beautiful and low-maintenance — something that would feel relaxing for us but also practical for guests. The materials they recommended are durable and easy to clean, which makes upkeep simple when we’re not there. The team worked efficiently, communicated clearly, and stayed on schedule, which meant everything was ready before our next visit. Century City Baths made it easy from start to finish."

Glenda M on October 2025

Century City Baths is your one stop shop for all your bathroom remodel needs. Whether it's a tub to shower conversion, or an update to a moldy or out of date tub/shower system, or a full gut to your bathroom, we are the complete turn-key solution. Using only the highest quality and most durable materials we are able to design a bathroom that will truly last a lifetime and eliminate most maintenance. Our design consultants work hand-in-hand with our customers to make their dreams come true. Our production team works as a team with you and your design consultant to make the process as quick and efficient as possible. Serving all of Chicagoland, our business model has always been that the best customer is the one that is the most educated. That is why all of our estimates are free of charge and are good for a full calendar year. We are confident that the quality, design, longevity, and above all, affordability will make us a no-brainer to every customer. Book your no-obligation, completely free of charge consultation today, and you can have the bathroom of your dreams too!

"We recently remodeled the bathrooms in our vacation house, and Century City Baths did an incredible job. Since this isn’t our primary home, we needed spaces that were both beautiful and low-maintenance — something that would feel relaxing for us but also practical for guests. The materials they recommended are durable and easy to clean, which makes upkeep simple when we’re not there. The team worked efficiently, communicated clearly, and stayed on schedule, which meant everything was ready before our next visit. Century City Baths made it easy from start to finish."

Glenda M on October 2025


Avatar for AMERICRAFT INC

AMERICRAFT INC

2201 Curtiss St
4.76(
66
)
Approved Pro

AMERICRAFT INC

2201 Curtiss St
4.76(
66
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 92% of Angi customers
Recommended by 92% of HomeAdvisor customers
212 local quotes requested

Americraft, Inc. located in Downers Grove, specializes in custom home remodeling for your dream kitchen, bath and basement. Featuring unsurpassed value and quality for high end remodeling. Americraft believes in using old world craftsmen methods, coupled with quality and technologically advanced products, for a lifetime of memories to come. We are a full service remodeling company, from design to delivery, from conception to a beautiful new reality. At Americraft, we'll bring your vision to life! Americraft strives to enhance the lives of our clients by providing high quality projects with hands-on service and minimal disruption to the family environment, building trust through communication and attention to detail. Our experienced craftsmen and personal attention to every project ensures that every customer is 100% satisfied. As the owner, I personally oversee every job from start to finish along with my staff. Once a job begins, you can be assured that each day we will be working towards its completion. As a member of BBB with an A+ rating, I have pledged to live up to the organization's high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility.

"Repair of small guest bathroom shower/tub area. Chose americraft bc they had no complaints on bbb and good reviews on social media. After obtaining quote greg came out to evaluate repair and answer questions. Our perception was that Greg lost interest when we didn’t want to change tub to shower or replace the bathtub. Just to keep existing tub. This would have brought quote down 2 to 3 thousand dollars. At this point Greg practically ran out of our condo. Never heard back from them. Our perception is that Americraft is not nterested if project is 10 thousand or lower. My wife may of scared him with either providing awareness of plumbing problems with common area or had all lights off except bathroom bc she’s embarrassed of our condo. Do not recommend for small projects."

RickandCarol C on December 2023

Americraft, Inc. located in Downers Grove, specializes in custom home remodeling for your dream kitchen, bath and basement. Featuring unsurpassed value and quality for high end remodeling. Americraft believes in using old world craftsmen methods, coupled with quality and technologically advanced products, for a lifetime of memories to come. We are a full service remodeling company, from design to delivery, from conception to a beautiful new reality. At Americraft, we'll bring your vision to life! Americraft strives to enhance the lives of our clients by providing high quality projects with hands-on service and minimal disruption to the family environment, building trust through communication and attention to detail. Our experienced craftsmen and personal attention to every project ensures that every customer is 100% satisfied. As the owner, I personally oversee every job from start to finish along with my staff. Once a job begins, you can be assured that each day we will be working towards its completion. As a member of BBB with an A+ rating, I have pledged to live up to the organization's high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility.

"Repair of small guest bathroom shower/tub area. Chose americraft bc they had no complaints on bbb and good reviews on social media. After obtaining quote greg came out to evaluate repair and answer questions. Our perception was that Greg lost interest when we didn’t want to change tub to shower or replace the bathtub. Just to keep existing tub. This would have brought quote down 2 to 3 thousand dollars. At this point Greg practically ran out of our condo. Never heard back from them. Our perception is that Americraft is not nterested if project is 10 thousand or lower. My wife may of scared him with either providing awareness of plumbing problems with common area or had all lights off except bathroom bc she’s embarrassed of our condo. Do not recommend for small projects."

RickandCarol C on December 2023


CCCM Inc

8 Lonsdale Rd
4.82(
257
)
Approved Pro

CCCM Inc

8 Lonsdale Rd
4.82(
257
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 93% of Angi customers
Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers
587 local quotes requested

5 employees. Uses subs when needed. Cost is determined by the job. No travel charges. Extra charges for emergency service may apply. dba: Corporate Consulting & Construction Mgmt. Handyman and small jobs welcome. We offer our contractor discounted cost on Cabinets and other products on full kitchen and/or Bathroom remodels. Ask for Details when you call!

"We did a remodel of our Kitchen and Master bath. The kitchen was a big project, taking out a wall and removing the back door, enlarging our bay to accommodate sliding doors. New countertops, cabinets and an island were installed. Tile was removed from the kitchen/ foyer and replaced with hardwood floors. They gave us a time frame for 4 months. We added on painting, carpet installation. tiling a hallway and new vanity and toilet in the half bath. They accommodated the extra work and completed it in a timely manner, without interruption for other jobs. We could not be more pleased with the work. Everything turned out beautifully. Terry, Jody and Brian were a pleasure to work with. They were reliable, on time and cleaned up daily. Jody is a perfectionist and if something wasn't done right it would be redone to meet his standards. They were helpful with design and handled every add on. They did not ask for money up front and kept cost updated frequently."

Leo R on July 2024

5 employees. Uses subs when needed. Cost is determined by the job. No travel charges. Extra charges for emergency service may apply. dba: Corporate Consulting & Construction Mgmt. Handyman and small jobs welcome. We offer our contractor discounted cost on Cabinets and other products on full kitchen and/or Bathroom remodels. Ask for Details when you call!

"We did a remodel of our Kitchen and Master bath. The kitchen was a big project, taking out a wall and removing the back door, enlarging our bay to accommodate sliding doors. New countertops, cabinets and an island were installed. Tile was removed from the kitchen/ foyer and replaced with hardwood floors. They gave us a time frame for 4 months. We added on painting, carpet installation. tiling a hallway and new vanity and toilet in the half bath. They accommodated the extra work and completed it in a timely manner, without interruption for other jobs. We could not be more pleased with the work. Everything turned out beautifully. Terry, Jody and Brian were a pleasure to work with. They were reliable, on time and cleaned up daily. Jody is a perfectionist and if something wasn't done right it would be redone to meet his standards. They were helpful with design and handled every add on. They did not ask for money up front and kept cost updated frequently."

Leo R on July 2024


Avatar for Tmw Enterprises Paving & Maintenance

Tmw Enterprises Paving & Maintenance

272 Brighton Rd
4.45(
197
)
Approved Pro

Tmw Enterprises Paving & Maintenance

272 Brighton Rd
4.45(
197
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
893 local quotes requested
30 years of experience

TMW has been providing Asphalt Paving, Unilock Brick Paving, Concrete, Stamped Concrete, Unilock Retaining Walls and Natural Stone Work for over 25 YEARS. Visit our website www.tmwpaving.com to send a contact request message to schedule a Free Estimate for asphalt, concrete, and/or brick paver work and find out more about our company. Our goal is to provide good communication and quality work while teaching our customers proper maintenance and expectations for their asphalt, concrete, and brick paver projects. We look forward to hear from you. Ty M. Ward TMW Enterprises Paving & Maintenance www.tmwpaving.com

"TMW Enterprises & Beautiful Stones replaced our 20 years old asphalt driveway with an new 3-inch thick asphalt driveway (app. size 850 sqft). The work crew showed up on both days (day 1 - removal old driveway/installing gravel base; day 2: asphalt paving) super punctual at the agreed times. Professional and friendly crew members, very organized, clean work, no mess, and the final result (new driveway) looks great. The agreed total cost is very competitive and worth every dollar. Thank you TMW Enterprises Paving Maintenance, great job."

Theodor U on July 2025

TMW has been providing Asphalt Paving, Unilock Brick Paving, Concrete, Stamped Concrete, Unilock Retaining Walls and Natural Stone Work for over 25 YEARS. Visit our website www.tmwpaving.com to send a contact request message to schedule a Free Estimate for asphalt, concrete, and/or brick paver work and find out more about our company. Our goal is to provide good communication and quality work while teaching our customers proper maintenance and expectations for their asphalt, concrete, and brick paver projects. We look forward to hear from you. Ty M. Ward TMW Enterprises Paving & Maintenance www.tmwpaving.com

"TMW Enterprises & Beautiful Stones replaced our 20 years old asphalt driveway with an new 3-inch thick asphalt driveway (app. size 850 sqft). The work crew showed up on both days (day 1 - removal old driveway/installing gravel base; day 2: asphalt paving) super punctual at the agreed times. Professional and friendly crew members, very organized, clean work, no mess, and the final result (new driveway) looks great. The agreed total cost is very competitive and worth every dollar. Thank you TMW Enterprises Paving Maintenance, great job."

Theodor U on July 2025


Avatar for Q5 Properties LLC

Q5 Properties LLC

15W011 E Harvard St
5.00(
19
)
Approved Pro

Q5 Properties LLC

15W011 E Harvard St
5.00(
19
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
649 local quotes requested

Q5 Properties is a Father and Son Business with over 30 years of construction/rehab experience. There is no job too big or too small that we can't handle. We specialize in custom home renovations ranging from deck building, custom kitchens, bathrooms, painting, basement finishing, exterior work, additions, windows, doors, to full gut rehabs. We strive to deliver the best quality work at a fair price to our customers putting their designs into reality. We look forward to learning about your new project and giving you a free competitive estimate! Also follow us on Instagram to see our current and past projects @Q5Properties.

"Q5 Properties were great, they were easy to work with, very professional and did the job in two days instead of what we thought might take 7 days. I would hire them again and will recommend them to anyone that I can."

Eric B on November 2023

Q5 Properties is a Father and Son Business with over 30 years of construction/rehab experience. There is no job too big or too small that we can't handle. We specialize in custom home renovations ranging from deck building, custom kitchens, bathrooms, painting, basement finishing, exterior work, additions, windows, doors, to full gut rehabs. We strive to deliver the best quality work at a fair price to our customers putting their designs into reality. We look forward to learning about your new project and giving you a free competitive estimate! Also follow us on Instagram to see our current and past projects @Q5Properties.

"Q5 Properties were great, they were easy to work with, very professional and did the job in two days instead of what we thought might take 7 days. I would hire them again and will recommend them to anyone that I can."

Eric B on November 2023

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FAQs for second story addition building service projects in Willowbrook, IL

For many homeowners, building up is worth the expense because it provides the extra bedrooms or living areas that can’t be accommodated within the existing footprint. A larger, updated home often commands a higher resale price, recouping a sizable share of the project cost while allowing you to stay in the neighborhood you love. Run the numbers with a real estate agent and contractor to ensure the expected return and day-to-day benefits align with your goals.

Whether it makes more sense to build up or out depends on your lot, budget, and local code. Building up preserves yard space and involves less foundation work, but you may need to vacate the home during construction. Building out avoids staircases and can proceed while you stay put; however, it encroaches on the yard and may face setback limits. Compare both options with your contractor before making a decision.

A structural engineer will first inspect the existing foundation for cracks, footings, and load capacity. Depending on the findings, the crew may pour new concrete footings, install steel or concrete piers, add reinforced beams, or tie additional rebar into the slab. These upgrades redistribute the weight of the new floor and bring the structure up to code. Your contractor will outline the specific reinforcement plan and timeline once the engineering report is complete.

The Willowbrook, IL homeowners’ guide to second story addition building services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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