Tod Chapman, owner of C & H Design Center, has coordinated a lot of kitchen and bath remodels during the past 12 years and has some advice to share.
First, be wary of do-it-yourself projects.
“We often have to go in and fix problems people created for themselves by taking on more than they really knew how to do,” says Chapman. “They’re trying to save money, but it ends up costing them more. Take advantage of the knowledge and experience people like us can offer.”
Chapman’s 6,000-foot showroom at 6506 Logan Ave., in Belvidere, Ill., contains all the elements needed for any size job, from design help to cabinets, counters, tile, hardware, fixtures, shower systems, flooring and more. C & H Design serves customers within a 65-mile radius, including Rockford, Freeport, southern Wisconsin and Chicago suburbs.
“Some people think they’ll save a lot of money buying from big-box home centers but don’t realize those materials are often rejects or factory seconds that may not be great quality,” says Chapman. “Our pricing is comparable to home centers, but we carry a bigger selection of quality products at all price points. Plus, you don’t have to stand there and figure out all the aspects of the job yourself.”
Chapman is glad he can offer a one-stop experience to customers because he knows how many phone calls and headaches can be involved when coordinating a job.
“Someone has to do all the scheduling for the various subcontractors,” he says. “We can handle everything so that you only have one interface, or we’ll work with you if you want to use a particular subcontractor. When you do a remodel with us, you’ll get a schedule of who is going to be there, on which day, doing what.”
Chapman advises people to make sure they feel comfortable with the contractor they hire and to be sure all subcontractors are licensed and insured. Ask to see photos of completed jobs and check references. Businesses with longevity and a local street address are more likely to be reliable.
Learn more at candhdesigncenter.com or call (815) 547-8453. ❚