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.
"We had an incredible experience with Matrix Basements! From start to finish, the team was professional, communicative, and a pleasure to work with. The craftsmanship is top-notch—every detail was handled with care and precision. You can really see the quality in the finishes and overall design. What stood out most was the amazing team collaboration. Everyone involved worked seamlessly together to bring our vision to life, and the process was smooth and stress-free. If you're looking for a company that delivers beautiful results with expert craftsmanship and great service, Matrix Basements is the one to call. Highly recommend!"
Jason V on April 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.
"We had an incredible experience with Matrix Basements! From start to finish, the team was professional, communicative, and a pleasure to work with. The craftsmanship is top-notch—every detail was handled with care and precision. You can really see the quality in the finishes and overall design. What stood out most was the amazing team collaboration. Everyone involved worked seamlessly together to bring our vision to life, and the process was smooth and stress-free. If you're looking for a company that delivers beautiful results with expert craftsmanship and great service, Matrix Basements is the one to call. Highly recommend!"
Jason V on April 2025
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
Our Renovation company brings together a team with decades of experience, committed to prioritizing homeowners in every project. Your complete satisfaction is our mission.
"Fantastic experience. They did a great job. From initial contact to completion was under 2 weeks. Highly recommend."
Mike G on August 2024
Our Renovation company brings together a team with decades of experience, committed to prioritizing homeowners in every project. Your complete satisfaction is our mission.
"Fantastic experience. They did a great job. From initial contact to completion was under 2 weeks. Highly recommend."
Mike G on August 2024
Ceilings and More is your trusted local expert in Morris, IL, specializing in basement remodeling, high-quality ceiling installations and custom interior trim. Owned and operated by Dan Rothengass, this family-run business has been serving the community since 2000, bringing decades of experience and a deep commitment to exceptional craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home with a beautifully crafted focal wall or a new finished basement, or add a unique decorative touch with custom trim, our team has the skills and expertise to bring your vision to life. At Ceilings and More, we place the utmost importance on customer satisfaction. Our approach is centered on working closely with each client to ensure that every project is executed to their exact specifications. With a strong commitment to quality and reliability. For a free consultation or to learn more about how we can transform your ceilings, contact us today at (630 569-5700)
"Dan was great with communication, quality work, and I would absolutely recommend Ceilings and More to anyone."
Leanna S on October 2024
Ceilings and More is your trusted local expert in Morris, IL, specializing in basement remodeling, high-quality ceiling installations and custom interior trim. Owned and operated by Dan Rothengass, this family-run business has been serving the community since 2000, bringing decades of experience and a deep commitment to exceptional craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home with a beautifully crafted focal wall or a new finished basement, or add a unique decorative touch with custom trim, our team has the skills and expertise to bring your vision to life. At Ceilings and More, we place the utmost importance on customer satisfaction. Our approach is centered on working closely with each client to ensure that every project is executed to their exact specifications. With a strong commitment to quality and reliability. For a free consultation or to learn more about how we can transform your ceilings, contact us today at (630 569-5700)
"Dan was great with communication, quality work, and I would absolutely recommend Ceilings and More to anyone."
Leanna S on October 2024
Our mission is to be a general contractor that brings back the personal touch with our customers. We will build a relationship that will last a lifetime once you see our quality work. We're passionate about delivering an exceptional experience. When you hire us, you're hiring a team of professionals who are trained and skilled to deliver lasting value to your home. As a locally owned and operated business we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. We won't leave until the job is done right! Call or click to schedule an estimate today!
"I was highly impressed with Geoff and his team. They were very detail-oriented and knowledgeable in all areas. Geoff is extremely customer-centric and strives for excellence. We are already planning our next project for October."
Kelly K on August 2024
Our mission is to be a general contractor that brings back the personal touch with our customers. We will build a relationship that will last a lifetime once you see our quality work. We're passionate about delivering an exceptional experience. When you hire us, you're hiring a team of professionals who are trained and skilled to deliver lasting value to your home. As a locally owned and operated business we feel invested in our clients and constantly strive for customer satisfaction. We won't leave until the job is done right! Call or click to schedule an estimate today!
"I was highly impressed with Geoff and his team. They were very detail-oriented and knowledgeable in all areas. Geoff is extremely customer-centric and strives for excellence. We are already planning our next project for October."
Kelly K on August 2024
ARCE Construction--We can build your DREAMS!! With 30+ years of service in the plumbing industry, we are excited to announce that we have expanded to provide professional construction services to our valued customers with renovations and restorations. We provide quality craftsmanship and outstanding customer service, which is our highest priority for every project entrusted to our construction team. We are focused on the details and understand your specific needs within your budget and offer a high level of value to each our our customers--this is what makes us different. Contact us today for your FREE in-home estimate
"Customer service was 10 of 10 very detailed and polite. The secretary was very helpful and very polite. I will definitely call again for any other issue in my home."
Jane G on December 2024
ARCE Construction--We can build your DREAMS!! With 30+ years of service in the plumbing industry, we are excited to announce that we have expanded to provide professional construction services to our valued customers with renovations and restorations. We provide quality craftsmanship and outstanding customer service, which is our highest priority for every project entrusted to our construction team. We are focused on the details and understand your specific needs within your budget and offer a high level of value to each our our customers--this is what makes us different. Contact us today for your FREE in-home estimate
"Customer service was 10 of 10 very detailed and polite. The secretary was very helpful and very polite. I will definitely call again for any other issue in my home."
Jane G on December 2024
Design First Builders is a premier Chicago home remodeling company and all-inclusive design/build firm located in Itasca. We specialize in kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, basement remodeling and basement finishing as well as home additions, room additions and design. Serving all of Chicagoland we have over 100 years combined experience and are dedicated to simplifying the renovation process and building sophisticated spaces that add value to your home or business. We will also build your custom home on the lot of your choice. When DESIGNfirst was founded in 2006, we had a staff of three people managing all design, development and construction for projects throughout Chicagoland. Today we have a large team of Designers, Architects, Managers, Contractors and more to assist you in defining, expanding and building your dream space. We also offer financing options, client referral rewards, excellent customer service and have various industry partners offering discounts exclusive to our clients. We do everything with the client in mind to ensure a smooth process in creating every dream space!
"We hired Design First to redo our downstairs including a kitchen and bathroom. I would never recommend this company to anyone based on our experience with them. The company should be renamed Disappointment First. We used this company due to the recommendation of a friend but did not realize the ownership had changed. There are several other reviews that discuss how the company’s performance degraded with the new ownership. If you do use Design First, please learn from our mistakes in dealing with them and insist upon a firm completion date with a penalty per day for missing it. Several of their competitors offer this, and in our naivete we did not request a penalty for missing the completion date. We had a signed change order with a guaranteed 12/25/23 completion date, that they missed by several months. When we brought this up in discussions with them, they were dismissive and stated no penalty so nothing we can do."
SAIF R on July 2024
Design First Builders is a premier Chicago home remodeling company and all-inclusive design/build firm located in Itasca. We specialize in kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, basement remodeling and basement finishing as well as home additions, room additions and design. Serving all of Chicagoland we have over 100 years combined experience and are dedicated to simplifying the renovation process and building sophisticated spaces that add value to your home or business. We will also build your custom home on the lot of your choice. When DESIGNfirst was founded in 2006, we had a staff of three people managing all design, development and construction for projects throughout Chicagoland. Today we have a large team of Designers, Architects, Managers, Contractors and more to assist you in defining, expanding and building your dream space. We also offer financing options, client referral rewards, excellent customer service and have various industry partners offering discounts exclusive to our clients. We do everything with the client in mind to ensure a smooth process in creating every dream space!
"We hired Design First to redo our downstairs including a kitchen and bathroom. I would never recommend this company to anyone based on our experience with them. The company should be renamed Disappointment First. We used this company due to the recommendation of a friend but did not realize the ownership had changed. There are several other reviews that discuss how the company’s performance degraded with the new ownership. If you do use Design First, please learn from our mistakes in dealing with them and insist upon a firm completion date with a penalty per day for missing it. Several of their competitors offer this, and in our naivete we did not request a penalty for missing the completion date. We had a signed change order with a guaranteed 12/25/23 completion date, that they missed by several months. When we brought this up in discussions with them, they were dismissive and stated no penalty so nothing we can do."
SAIF R on July 2024
We are a family owned and operated company; with every phase of design, building and community development under the skilled guidance of a family member. At A.P. Builder & General Contractor, our business is more than building. Our business is building a better quality of life for our residents, respecting the communities in which we build and demonstrating a concern for the landscape we change. These qualities combine to comprise a thirty-year tradition of family commitment to excellence in building. Our clients receive impeccable attention to detail and premium service from a financially stable and sound company. We are dedicated to customer satisfaction with every aspect of the project from concept to completion. This is who we are and what we are at A.P. Builder & General Contractor; people who build, enjoy it and want to extend our expertise to you. Let us know how we may be of service to you.
"Our experience with AP Builder was great. Angelo was very knowledgeable and professional, keeping us informed every step of the way. This was a big important project for our home and I am extremely happy with how it came out! The cost was very reasonable and there were no surprises, everything was open and honest. I would definitely use them again and recommend to friends and family. Thank you AP!"
David A on March 2025
We are a family owned and operated company; with every phase of design, building and community development under the skilled guidance of a family member. At A.P. Builder & General Contractor, our business is more than building. Our business is building a better quality of life for our residents, respecting the communities in which we build and demonstrating a concern for the landscape we change. These qualities combine to comprise a thirty-year tradition of family commitment to excellence in building. Our clients receive impeccable attention to detail and premium service from a financially stable and sound company. We are dedicated to customer satisfaction with every aspect of the project from concept to completion. This is who we are and what we are at A.P. Builder & General Contractor; people who build, enjoy it and want to extend our expertise to you. Let us know how we may be of service to you.
"Our experience with AP Builder was great. Angelo was very knowledgeable and professional, keeping us informed every step of the way. This was a big important project for our home and I am extremely happy with how it came out! The cost was very reasonable and there were no surprises, everything was open and honest. I would definitely use them again and recommend to friends and family. Thank you AP!"
David A on March 2025
Holague Pavers is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
Holague Pavers is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
United Freight of America is your all inclusive transport solution. CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE. please include pick up and Drop off locations and vehicle information
"Excellent, no problems. My car was new the first year I used the service and there has never been any damage during the transports. The men picking up and delivering the car have always been pleasant and cooperative. Both Ely and Guy at United Transport has been highly responsive to my needs. I would highly recommend this company."
CLAUDIA H on October 2021
United Freight of America is your all inclusive transport solution. CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE. please include pick up and Drop off locations and vehicle information
"Excellent, no problems. My car was new the first year I used the service and there has never been any damage during the transports. The men picking up and delivering the car have always been pleasant and cooperative. Both Ely and Guy at United Transport has been highly responsive to my needs. I would highly recommend this company."
CLAUDIA H on October 2021
Regular care helps keep the wood looking good and prevents it from absorbing stains from food. Lacquered or epoxy bar top sealed countertops only require regular cleaning. For stained counters, you’ll want to stain again every three to five years.
Oil unfinished butcher block (and any wood) regularly at least once a month for the first year and then at least twice yearly after that. You can use these oils:
Food-grade mineral oil
Pure tung oil
Raw linseed oil
Walnut or almond oil
Coconut oil
Butcher block countertops do require regular upkeep to maintain their beauty and longevity, but with consistent care, they can last for decades. You'll need to clean them regularly with soap and water and apply a food-grade oil or polyurethane sealant once a month to protect against stains and damage. Occasional sanding and refinishing will help preserve a smooth, attractive surface throughout their lifespan, around 20 years.
You can buy butcher block countertops from large home improvement stores like Home Depot, Lowe's, and Menards. You can also find it at kitchen remodeling stores. You can find many online options from large sites and custom work from artisans. However, you’ll likely get the best price through your installer.
Yes, butcher block countertops can be kept sanitary with proper care. Regular cleaning with soap and water—or a mixture of vinegar and salt—helps eliminate bacteria. Applying a food-grade oil regularly preserves the surface, and sealing it with a bar top epoxy provides extra protection. With these practices, your butcher block countertop remains safe and hygienic for food preparation.
With proper maintenance, butcher block countertops can last around 20 years. This lifespan is similar to that of materials like granite and longer than the lifespan of laminate countertops. To keep them in good condition, you'll need to reseal them regularly—ideally once a month—and clean them routinely to prevent surface damage. If you notice deep scratches, stains, or dings, you can resurface them to restore their appearance.
Butcher block countertops cost less than quartz. The average butcher block countertop costs $3,750, while quartz countertops cost $4,500. This cost advantage is coupled with the natural warmth and unique appearance of wood, making butcher block a compelling choice for kitchen design when proper maintenance is applied to preserve its quality.