At CU Midwest Designs, we don't just complete projects—we bring visions to life. Every brushstroke, every remodel, and every detail is crafted with precision and a passion for excellence. We blend industry expertise with a personal touch, ensuring that every project reflects your unique needs and aspirations. What truly sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to transparency, fairness, and building lasting relationships. We don’t believe in shortcuts. We believe in integrity. From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, your satisfaction is not just a goal—it’s the foundation of everything we do. When you work with CU Midwest Designs, you're not just hiring contractors. You’re partnering with a team that’s dedicated to transforming your space with craftsmanship that stands the test of time. Let’s make your dream project a reality—reach out today and experience the difference!
"Very professional and helpful. Went out of their way to make sure everything went well. Have recommended them to friends and coworkers."
MARGARET E G on May 2023
At CU Midwest Designs, we don't just complete projects—we bring visions to life. Every brushstroke, every remodel, and every detail is crafted with precision and a passion for excellence. We blend industry expertise with a personal touch, ensuring that every project reflects your unique needs and aspirations. What truly sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to transparency, fairness, and building lasting relationships. We don’t believe in shortcuts. We believe in integrity. From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, your satisfaction is not just a goal—it’s the foundation of everything we do. When you work with CU Midwest Designs, you're not just hiring contractors. You’re partnering with a team that’s dedicated to transforming your space with craftsmanship that stands the test of time. Let’s make your dream project a reality—reach out today and experience the difference!
"Very professional and helpful. Went out of their way to make sure everything went well. Have recommended them to friends and coworkers."
MARGARET E G on May 2023
with 6+ years years experience RF Carpentry 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.
"I have used Rhiley on several different jobs, he's done 2 roofs for me. He's repaired drywall and replaced some doors. I highly recommend him. He's a great guy, takes pride in his work and cleans up his work area."
John B on March 2025
with 6+ years years experience RF Carpentry 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.
"I have used Rhiley on several different jobs, he's done 2 roofs for me. He's repaired drywall and replaced some doors. I highly recommend him. He's a great guy, takes pride in his work and cleans up his work area."
John B on March 2025
We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!
"Prompt Service, excellent work, fair price. Job in rural Tolono - 9 miles south of Champaign. Would not hesitate to use again. "
George B on March 2025
We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!
"Prompt Service, excellent work, fair price. Job in rural Tolono - 9 miles south of Champaign. Would not hesitate to use again. "
George B on March 2025
In business for 5 years all over central Illinois. From masonry work to remodeling, we do it all and for a good price! No job is to big or to small for us.
In business for 5 years all over central Illinois. From masonry work to remodeling, we do it all and for a good price! No job is to big or to small for us.
Family Based Company 30 Days to pay the Invoice in Full
Family Based Company 30 Days to pay the Invoice in Full
Full Service Painting - Interior & Exterior. Highest Quality Work. All Work Guaranteed! Serving Champaign County since 1999. EPA & RRP certified Firm. Free Estimates.
"Professional, signed contract, friendly, showed up when they said they would, kept area neat and clean, excellent work removing the wallpaper, preparing the walls and painting. Would highly recommend."
Janet H on November 2019
Full Service Painting - Interior & Exterior. Highest Quality Work. All Work Guaranteed! Serving Champaign County since 1999. EPA & RRP certified Firm. Free Estimates.
"Professional, signed contract, friendly, showed up when they said they would, kept area neat and clean, excellent work removing the wallpaper, preparing the walls and painting. Would highly recommend."
Janet H on November 2019
Free computer drafting with general knowlege of design. I have 30 years experience in building houses. I am familiar with local subcontractors. I can get any job done at a reasonable cost.
"The work was done properly and when some additional jobs were added, Mr Grant went out of his way to get subcontractor's in to fix the added jobs promptly. I was very happy with the results and would recommend Steven Grant Construction to anyone who needed a prompt quote and a properly done job. He took the extra steps to finish my job within the quote so I stayed on budget."
Cindy M on June 2020
Free computer drafting with general knowlege of design. I have 30 years experience in building houses. I am familiar with local subcontractors. I can get any job done at a reasonable cost.
"The work was done properly and when some additional jobs were added, Mr Grant went out of his way to get subcontractor's in to fix the added jobs promptly. I was very happy with the results and would recommend Steven Grant Construction to anyone who needed a prompt quote and a properly done job. He took the extra steps to finish my job within the quote so I stayed on budget."
Cindy M on June 2020
We specialize in all phases of drywall and painting. We do new Construction, remodels, commercial, and residential
"Preston Thompson is untrustworthy, extremely tardy, and unprofessional. Do not waste your money, time, or peace of mind with this individual. Preston BREACHED CONTRACT by starting the project nearly an hour later than what was agreed upon on the contract that HE wrote up. When he finally arrived Preston had no supplies or materials handy. Upon arrival, we paid Preston 50% of the total estimate by check—he left IMMEDIATELY to cash the check, “purchase materials”, and give an estimate to another customer. He returned roughly 3 HOURS LATER with disposable tarp. Also upon returning to our residence, Preston asked if we could pay him by Zelle mobile banking instead of by check because his bank would not give him immediate access to funds cashed by check. We obliged. WE also SUPPLIED the ladder, steamer, scraper, scorer, and the removal solutions that he used over the next 3 hours to remove a mere 2 feet by 4 feet of wallpaper. Our project was then neglected by Preston, who canceled every subsequent work appointment after the first and only day he came to work at our home. There is NO POSSIBLE WAY that our project would’ve been completed anywhere close to the 4 days he had left on the work order. Furthermore, when we expressed our frustrations and requested a cancellation and refund, Preston AGREED to pay back the funds. We even agreed that instead of sending back $1175 (which was the full refund), that Preston could keep $150 as compensation for the work he had done, and he would send back $1025. In fact, Preston said he would pay it back by later that same evening. The next day the money had still not been returned. When asked, Preston’s reason for not sending the money was that he was just “trying to make some funds available from other work” he was doing—which is ridiculous considering that he could not have spent much money on materials or supplies for our project considering all he purchased was disposable tarp. For nearly a month I have been trying to recover the funds we agreed on. Preston has been avoidant."
Kenneth J on October 2022
We specialize in all phases of drywall and painting. We do new Construction, remodels, commercial, and residential
"Preston Thompson is untrustworthy, extremely tardy, and unprofessional. Do not waste your money, time, or peace of mind with this individual. Preston BREACHED CONTRACT by starting the project nearly an hour later than what was agreed upon on the contract that HE wrote up. When he finally arrived Preston had no supplies or materials handy. Upon arrival, we paid Preston 50% of the total estimate by check—he left IMMEDIATELY to cash the check, “purchase materials”, and give an estimate to another customer. He returned roughly 3 HOURS LATER with disposable tarp. Also upon returning to our residence, Preston asked if we could pay him by Zelle mobile banking instead of by check because his bank would not give him immediate access to funds cashed by check. We obliged. WE also SUPPLIED the ladder, steamer, scraper, scorer, and the removal solutions that he used over the next 3 hours to remove a mere 2 feet by 4 feet of wallpaper. Our project was then neglected by Preston, who canceled every subsequent work appointment after the first and only day he came to work at our home. There is NO POSSIBLE WAY that our project would’ve been completed anywhere close to the 4 days he had left on the work order. Furthermore, when we expressed our frustrations and requested a cancellation and refund, Preston AGREED to pay back the funds. We even agreed that instead of sending back $1175 (which was the full refund), that Preston could keep $150 as compensation for the work he had done, and he would send back $1025. In fact, Preston said he would pay it back by later that same evening. The next day the money had still not been returned. When asked, Preston’s reason for not sending the money was that he was just “trying to make some funds available from other work” he was doing—which is ridiculous considering that he could not have spent much money on materials or supplies for our project considering all he purchased was disposable tarp. For nearly a month I have been trying to recover the funds we agreed on. Preston has been avoidant."
Kenneth J on October 2022
We are a remodeling company that specializes in doors and windows. We have a sub-contract with one of the box-stores and have installed over 2000 windows in the last two years and over 500 doors in that time as well. We have been a business for 12 years and are detail oriented and thrive in our relationships with our clients. Repeat customers are normal for us.
We are a remodeling company that specializes in doors and windows. We have a sub-contract with one of the box-stores and have installed over 2000 windows in the last two years and over 500 doors in that time as well. We have been a business for 12 years and are detail oriented and thrive in our relationships with our clients. Repeat customers are normal for us.
While it might be tempting to tackle drywall installation yourself, it's a challenging job best left to the pros. Drywall panels are heavy—each one weighs between 50 and 70 pounds—and handling them safely usually requires at least two people. Professional installers have the experience and equipment to align and secure the panels properly, ensuring a smooth, long-lasting finish that meets all code requirements.
Drywall and plaster are two different materials used for walls and ceilings, each with its own advantages. Drywall consists of manufactured panels that can be installed quickly and offer good insulation. It's generally more cost-effective and is great for straight walls and ceilings.
Plaster is applied in layers over a supportive framework called lath. While it requires more labor, plaster provides a unique, smooth finish that's ideal for curved surfaces and decorative details. Your choice between drywall and plaster will depend on your desired look, durability needs, and budget.
Lightweight drywall panels are about 25% lighter than standard ones, making them easier to handle during installation. This can be helpful if you're doing a DIY project or working in tight spaces. However, they might not offer the same level of durability, fire resistance, or soundproofing as regular drywall. If you're looking for superior protection and a finish that lasts, standard drywall may be the better option for your walls and ceilings.
Professionally installed drywall lasts between 40 and 60 years. Drywall longevity depends on installation quality, maintenance practices, and environmental conditions. High-quality work combined with proper care ensures that drywall performs reliably for decades. Factors such as moisture, fire exposure, and physical damage can affect its lifespan, so regular inspections and timely repairs are essential for extending durability.
You don't need a permit to replace drywall if you're just swapping out old panels without making any structural changes. If you're keeping the wall positions the same and not moving any electrical or plumbing, you can go ahead without a permit. However, if your project involves adding or removing walls or altering the home's infrastructure, you'll likely need to get a permit, which can add $50 to $150 to your costs. It's always a good idea to check with your local building department to make sure you're following the rules.