Top 10 Remodeling Contractors in Lake Forest, IL

Porch Pro Headshot DESIGNfirst Builders
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(175)
DESIGNfirst is an all-inclusive design/build firm in Chicago, dedicated to simplifying the renovation process and building sophisticated spaces that add value to your home. We know what it’s like to be in your shoes, and how important it is to work with a home remodeling company you can trust. That...Read more about DESIGNfirst Builders
DESIGNfirst is an all-inclusive design/build firm in Chicago, dedicated to simplifying the renovation process and building sophisticated spaces that add value to your home. We know what it’s like to be in your shoes, and how important it is to work with a home remodeling company you can trust. That...Read more about DESIGNfirst Builders
Porch Pro Headshot Cobblestone Remodeling, Inc.
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(104)
"Cobblestone Development is a great company. They are one of the few "good guys" left in this industry that prides itself on meeting and exceeding expectations. Their industry experience is critical to properly estimating a renovation or build out. With over 20 years of experience, Bill Conforti and...Read more about Cobblestone Remodeling, Inc.
"Cobblestone Development is a great company. They are one of the few "good guys" left in this industry that prides itself on meeting and exceeding expectations. Their industry experience is critical to properly estimating a renovation or build out. With over 20 years of experience, Bill Conforti and...Read more about Cobblestone Remodeling, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Smardbuild Construction, Inc.
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(99)
"We recently had our house resided by Smardbuild and it was a very big project. Not only was the siding in worse condition than we thought but there was also a considerable amount of structural damage that needed to be repaired. When we saw some of the extent of the damage to the structure of the ho...Read more about Smardbuild Construction, Inc.
"We recently had our house resided by Smardbuild and it was a very big project. Not only was the siding in worse condition than we thought but there was also a considerable amount of structural damage that needed to be repaired. When we saw some of the extent of the damage to the structure of the ho...Read more about Smardbuild Construction, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Siding & Windows Group
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(79)
Siding & Windows Group is Chicago's leading siding & window professionals and are recognized as a leader in the industry for originality, innovation, and architectural integrity for exterior design. Our client's praise our work, and enjoy the results: a great looking home, a lifetime siding warranty...Read more about Siding & Windows Group
Siding & Windows Group is Chicago's leading siding & window professionals and are recognized as a leader in the industry for originality, innovation, and architectural integrity for exterior design. Our client's praise our work, and enjoy the results: a great looking home, a lifetime siding warranty...Read more about Siding & Windows Group
Porch Pro Headshot M L Home Remodeling Inc.
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(64)
We do it all from handyman work to professional major remodeling and we make sure your job is done right. We are professional contractors with an eye for details. We work with each of our customers to make sure that they are 100% satisfied and become customers for life. Give us a call today with an...Read more about M L Home Remodeling Inc.
We do it all from handyman work to professional major remodeling and we make sure your job is done right. We are professional contractors with an eye for details. We work with each of our customers to make sure that they are 100% satisfied and become customers for life. Give us a call today with an...Read more about M L Home Remodeling Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Dream Home Services, Inc.
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(4)
Dream Home Services is a remodeling company offering the finest in complete home remodeling, construction and restoration services since 2008. We offer quality work and competitive prices, paying close attention to customer's needs, making sure that they are fully satisfied with our work without fru...Read more about Dream Home Services, Inc.
Dream Home Services is a remodeling company offering the finest in complete home remodeling, construction and restoration services since 2008. We offer quality work and competitive prices, paying close attention to customer's needs, making sure that they are fully satisfied with our work without fru...Read more about Dream Home Services, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Lanyon Remodeling Services Inc.
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(2)
"Lanyon remodeling services, suggested by our kitchen designer, remodeled our first floor and kitchen. They delivered high-quality, professional service, within the agreed upon timeline. The end result looks great. They get my highest recommendation."
"Lanyon remodeling services, suggested by our kitchen designer, remodeled our first floor and kitchen. They delivered high-quality, professional service, within the agreed upon timeline. The end result looks great. They get my highest recommendation."
Porch Pro Headshot LKD Kitchen Design
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(18)
LKD Kitchen Design is a specialty cabinetry dealer catering to residential as well as commercial clients offering professional services from design conception through to project completion. We also work closely with interior designers, architects, contractors and their clients. Whether you need just...Read more about LKD Kitchen Design
LKD Kitchen Design is a specialty cabinetry dealer catering to residential as well as commercial clients offering professional services from design conception through to project completion. We also work closely with interior designers, architects, contractors and their clients. Whether you need just...Read more about LKD Kitchen Design
Porch Pro Headshot Mordini General Contracting
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(8)
OUR MISSION - For over 31 years, Mordini General Contracting has been helping families on the North Shore renovate their homes. From kitchen and bath renovations to basements and home offices to gut rehabs and additions, we help our clients achieve their dream project with the least amount of disrup...Read more about Mordini General Contracting
OUR MISSION - For over 31 years, Mordini General Contracting has been helping families on the North Shore renovate their homes. From kitchen and bath renovations to basements and home offices to gut rehabs and additions, we help our clients achieve their dream project with the least amount of disrup...Read more about Mordini General Contracting
Porch Pro Headshot Mahogany Builders
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
Mahogany Builders is an interior remodeling contractor building value for our clients' homes across the Chicagoland area. Tag Line: Using creative solutions, straightforward pricing, and outstanding customer service, Mahogany Builders is changing the way homeowners view their renovation projects. ...Read more about Mahogany Builders
Mahogany Builders is an interior remodeling contractor building value for our clients' homes across the Chicagoland area. Tag Line: Using creative solutions, straightforward pricing, and outstanding customer service, Mahogany Builders is changing the way homeowners view their renovation projects. ...Read more about Mahogany Builders

Frequently asked questions about remodeling contractors

The important steps to remember when finding a good local remodeling contractor:

Reviews - Check the contractor’s website and social media to see what their previous clients have said about their home remodeling work.

Past projects - Often, you’ll be able to find pictures of their previous work on their website or social media. If people are really happy with their remodeled home, they often post pictures on social media and then tag the remodeling contractor.

Up-to-date licenses - It would be useful to know what licenses and registration are needed for renovations companies in your state, and then make sure your contractor is up to standard.

Word of mouth - Generally people like to talk, so ask around for recommendations from your friends and neighbors to see if there is a top remodeling contractor in your community. It’s really important to hire someone you can trust, and if they already have a good reputation in your town, you can probably trust that they’ll treat you well too.

Compare prices - You can get a quote from a number of remodeling contractors or renovations companies to see who has the best going rate compared to the best reputation. Check to see how much each is charging for labor vs. the estimated cost of materials for the home remodeling.

Check out this article for more tips on hiring the best remodeling contractor for the job. It has further details on this topic.

Hiring a remodeling contractor can put you in a vulnerable position. Not only are you inviting someone you don’t know into your home, but you’re also allowing them to take your home apart and put it back together.

With this in mind, the following tips are recommended:

  • Have a written contract that outlines all the work to be completed and the pricing.
  • Note any additions to scope that come up as the project progresses, including additional materials and sizing issues.
  • Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured.
  • Ask for referrals and follow them up. Ask previous clients what they have to say about the work, including the quality and price, and whether the remodeling contractor stayed on budget.
  • Pay attention to the contractor’s style of communication and how he/she is able to communicate about the project. Are they willing to discuss details about their progress? Are they willing to be flexible?
  • Get a written estimate from the renovation company or remodeling contractor. Make sure it’s detailed and includes all the supplies needed, the rate per hour of work, and any other factors such as a timeline or special orders.

Depending on the project, you may be required to pay a deposit for the work. According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, “Receiving some sort of down payment at signing is a good practice to ensure a customer’s sincere intent to do the project. A payment schedule should be part of the contract language. Typical down payments are 25% to 33%. Sometimes even higher depending on the type of work being done. A down payment is highly recommended when products have to be ordered by the contractor immediately.”

You may be able to negotiate the percentage of the down payment, especially if you have established good communication with them. Ask your remodeling contractor what they expect and work out an agreeable percentage, but never pay the total cost upfront.

While it may be tempting to take on a remodeling project on your own, it's usually wise to hire a professional remodeling contractor for the job. Hiring a pro may save you money down the road because a pro can help you avoid costly mistakes and possible miscalculations. A remodeling contractor will carry liability and workers compensation insurance, which is set up to protect both the homeowner and contractor.

As you consider how to move forward with your home remodeling vision, you’ll have to consider which parts (if any) you can do yourself and what will have to be done professionally. For example, you may know how to paint a room, but don’t have the first clue about drywalling or knocking down a wall. These are things you probably don’t want to just take a swing at yourself.

These are some other issues people sometimes encounter when doing a DIY remodeling of their home:

  • Time — When it comes down to it, you simply don’t have the hours to put toward a home remodeling project.
  • Effort — What sounds simple enough in theory sometimes turns out to be rather laborious, and is no longer worth the DIY bragging rights.
  • Money — You may not save much money with a DIY project because you a) might cause damage, b) may need to redo some of your work, and c) may not get the materials for the same rate as the renovation company.

Having a solid plan up front will make hiring a remodeling contractor well worth your while.

Requirements for contractor licensing vary from state to state. Approximately 35 states require licenses. In some states, requirements for licensing are very lenient, so the licenses might not mean much to the consumer. In other states, a license means the contractor has a good track record.

Make sure licenses are up-to-date when hiring a renovations company or general contractor. Some states require different licensing categories and/or requirements, so it would be wise to read up on those of your state and check to see if your contractor’s license covers the type of work needed. Never hire a remodeling contractor that doesn’t have or can’t produce their license for working in your state, no matter their reason. Most states require that a license be obtained by any remodeling contractor performing work valued over $500.

With a license, the contractor should be up to date on current building codes, safety policies, disposal of hazardous materials, labor and employee hiring, and permitting. If the contractor doesn’t produce the paperwork, you may want to consider going in another direction.

Proof of a license does not always guarantee good work. Other than checking on a remodeling contractor’s license, homeowners should make sure a potential contractor carries liability and workers compensation insurance. Homeowners should scrutinize contractor’s reviews, look at a portfolio of past work, and look into a pro’s local reputation.

There are many factors involved when it comes to hiring a professional home remodeling contractor. Consider variables such as the complexity and size of the space being renovated, the cost and quality of materials, and the number of subcontractors and labor required.

Don’t go by the price itself, however. Though you’ll collect many estimates from remodeling contractors, don’t let price be the deciding factor. If you pay less, you may get less. Beware of any estimates that stand out as being lower (or higher, for that matter) than the rest.

Get several estimates and make sure they’re itemized (time, materials, costs, etc.) so you can compare various quotes. You may find that the higher cost is worth the money.

Some common things that will likely increase the cost of a remodeling contractor:

  • Electrical or plumbing work is involved.
  • The materials are imported.
  • The project is complex (several rooms, a particularly unique design, extra-heavy materials).
  • The time of year. Most people do their renovations in the late spring and summer, making it the season where demand allows for higher rates.

Consult the free Porch project cost guides to get an idea about how much a home renovation project may cost in your area.

The benefits of having one general contractor outweigh any other situation, including you trying to juggle all the different aspects of the project yourself. Hire a general contractor to manage subcontractors and schedule all the work.

There are many different types of contractors based on the kind of labor they’re trained in. For example, there are concrete contractors, HVAC contractors, closet contractors, kitchen contractors, and roofing contractors. Once you determine the specific work that needs to be done for your home remodeling project, you can look for a particular kind of contractor. If you need to remodel a whole room, you can get a contractor specific to that or to the kind of material you’ll be using, like drywall or plaster.

Since different types of contractors can potentially work on your home remodel, having a general contractor to outsource is the best way to go. When subcontractors are bringing on a crew, make sure that it’s a solid team and that everyone is on the same page with costs, materials, and the design of the remodeling vision. Everyone should know their work well and be properly licensed according to your state regulations.

Choosing a local remodeling contractor who knows the best local subcontractors is a smart way to go. Contractors and laborers often collaborate, especially in smaller towns. Making good contracting decisions will ensure that you’ll enjoy both the progress and results of your next home remodeling project. Remember that communication is the key to success. Setting reasonable expectations, establishing a good repertoire, and regularly checking in will lead to a smooth, easy home improvement project.

Recent reviews for Lake Forest Remodeling Contractors

32433

The Consultant who came by was very concerned about my needs and directected to someone who might fulfill My needs. The work has been completed

- Glenn Ellis
539750

Siding & Windows Group went above and beyond to ensure our satisfaction with their work. Their team was courteous, knowledgeable, and efficient. We're thrilled with our new roof and would highly recommend their services!!!

- Karina Brown
8055

I could not have been happier with the work done by Rinato Electric. Not only were they straight forward, honest and knowledgeable, but was also friendly, clean and intelligent. Excellent quality, communication and timeliness are key assets to th...

- Renzo Berardi
7986

Excellent value. Excellent work quality. Excellent to keep appointment.

Great! Electrical work was very clean and neat. The owner John is very nice and explains thing so homeowners understand. I had a bunch of hidden electric boxes when we remodeled and His workers and him got rid of all of them. Definitely would use again

- Vito Cossentino
7952

Excellent work quality. Excellent to keep appointment. Excellent responsiveness in communication.

Good

- Jennifer Wallace-Lawnicki
11123

Recently Rinato Electric completed installation and service projects in our 1954 home. John Cossentino and crew were excellent in determining our needs, quoting and scheduling the work. They were prompt, professional, clean and even under estimate. Wo...

7961

Excellent work quality. Excellent to keep appointment. Excellent value.

Everything went smooth and was handled in a professional manner.

- Joe C
169998

Excellent work, professional, quality and price.

- Marco Arias
43181

Incredible company that I have used several times. Very reliable and the quality of work is excellent. Five stars for sure.

- Michael Lindsey
43144

It was excellent quality and workmanship at a fare investment!!!

- Todd Phelps
43772

Excellent company to do business with.

43145

I know Bill the owner of Cobblestone he is a man of high character and integrity and will always provide the best for his customers.

- Jim Powers

Everything You Need to Know About Lake Forest Remodeling Contractors

Can I browse unscreened Remodeling Contractors in Lake Forest?

We do our best to screen all of our remodeling contractors. However, there are still some remodeling contractor professionals in Lake Forest that have not been pre-screened. This means that their licenses may not be up to date to operate in Lake Forest or IL. Always be sure to pre-screen them yourself before hiring. Here are some unscreened professionals offering remodeling contractors:

  • Johnco Builders Inc:
    • BBB Rating: A+
    • Active/Verified License: Yes, Current Status is Active
  • Best 1 Built Inc.:
    • Active/Verified License: No, current status is inactive
  • Jack's Remodelling Experts:
    • BBB Rating: A+
    • Active/Verified License: No, current status is inactive

Remodeling Contractors isn’t exactly what I’m looking for. Are there more specific services similar to remodeling contractors available in Lake Forest?

If you’ve determined that remodeling contractors are not quite what you were looking for, or if you had a specific project in mind that is similar to remodeling contractors, we can still help you find the right professional in Lake Forest.

Lake Forest has 50 remodeling contractor professionals that can help you with your remodeling contractors job. Head to our Pros Page to find specific remodeling contractors-pros in Lake Forest.

How does invoicing/payment work for most Remodeling Contractor projects in Lake Forest?

Every project differs, but you should ask any remodeling contractor for an estimate, before they do any work. In fact, ask for their general payment terms before any remodeling contractors work is done.

If the job is large and going to take longer than a day, it's common practice for remodeling contractors to request a down payment. Usually, this will be around 25% so they can commence work on your remodeling contractor project.

If it's a quick job, you'll likely be given an invoice/bill when the job is complete. Then it's up to you and the remodeling contractor to determine if you pay immediately or can send payment at a later date.

All Remodeling Contractors in Lake Forest, IL

Porch Pro Headshot Rht Design & Construction Inc
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(4)
Home Design and Custom Building Whether it's a KITCHEN DESIGN in Deerfield, Illinois or a BATHROOM REMODELING project in Highland Park, Randy Tapper, and RHT Design & Construction can turn your house into the home of your dreams. Randy and his team of local, fully bonded and insured craftsmen have ...Read more about Rht Design & Construction Inc
Home Design and Custom Building Whether it's a KITCHEN DESIGN in Deerfield, Illinois or a BATHROOM REMODELING project in Highland Park, Randy Tapper, and RHT Design & Construction can turn your house into the home of your dreams. Randy and his team of local, fully bonded and insured craftsmen have ...Read more about Rht Design & Construction Inc
Porch Pro Headshot ANR Construction Inc.
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
Based out of Chicago, ANR Construction is a general contractor that provides accessibility construction, green building, residential construction and other services.
Based out of Chicago, ANR Construction is a general contractor that provides accessibility construction, green building, residential construction and other services.
Porch Pro Headshot Unlimited Building Services, Inc.
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(3)
"CJ and his team of "best in class" sub-contractors did an amazing job restoring our fire damaged home to "better than new" condition. Ours was a complicated and extensive project which included tearing off and replacing the fire damaged roof (including trusses) and restoring over 60% of the livabl...Read more about Unlimited Building Services, Inc.
"CJ and his team of "best in class" sub-contractors did an amazing job restoring our fire damaged home to "better than new" condition. Ours was a complicated and extensive project which included tearing off and replacing the fire damaged roof (including trusses) and restoring over 60% of the livabl...Read more about Unlimited Building Services, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot RINATO CONSTRUCTION
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(5)
Rinato Electric provides unlimited electrical services and design to customers at an affordable price. Our goal is to provide our customers with a personalized experience to remember. We pride ourselves in the quality of our craftsmanship and the long term relationships we have built with our custom...Read more about RINATO CONSTRUCTION
Rinato Electric provides unlimited electrical services and design to customers at an affordable price. Our goal is to provide our customers with a personalized experience to remember. We pride ourselves in the quality of our craftsmanship and the long term relationships we have built with our custom...Read more about RINATO CONSTRUCTION
Porch Pro Headshot Adobe Remodeling
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(27)
We have over 25 years of experience doing a lot of custom work for customers with dreams.
We have over 25 years of experience doing a lot of custom work for customers with dreams.
Porch Pro Headshot Promar Exteriors
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(17)
Promar Exteriors is a leading exterior remodeling company, with emphasis on the installation of Windows, Siding, Roofing, Gutters and related products. We have proudly served the Chicagoland Community for over 15 years and have a superb reputation for providing the highest quality for the best price...Read more about Promar Exteriors
Promar Exteriors is a leading exterior remodeling company, with emphasis on the installation of Windows, Siding, Roofing, Gutters and related products. We have proudly served the Chicagoland Community for over 15 years and have a superb reputation for providing the highest quality for the best price...Read more about Promar Exteriors
Porch Pro Headshot Koopman Carpentry, Inc.
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
Koopman Carpentry, Inc. is a family owned and operated business. We have been in business serving Southern Lake County and the greater North Shore Area since 1969. We are carpenters by trade specializing in residential remodeling and repairs. We do every thing from Hanging Art Work and making small...Read more about Koopman Carpentry, Inc.
Koopman Carpentry, Inc. is a family owned and operated business. We have been in business serving Southern Lake County and the greater North Shore Area since 1969. We are carpenters by trade specializing in residential remodeling and repairs. We do every thing from Hanging Art Work and making small...Read more about Koopman Carpentry, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot A&A Remodeling Company
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
(1)
Specialists in interior and exterior remodeling and painting, pressure washing, stain and sealer all kinds of material, floors with special Epoxy finishes and more ...
Specialists in interior and exterior remodeling and painting, pressure washing, stain and sealer all kinds of material, floors with special Epoxy finishes and more ...
Porch Pro Headshot Bashert General Contractors
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
Full-service home improvement company based in northern suburbs of Chicago. Our business is 100% referral-based, we treat our clients like we expect to be treated. If you are seeking a courteous, professional tradesman that shows up on-time and works within your budget, please give us a call!
Full-service home improvement company based in northern suburbs of Chicago. Our business is 100% referral-based, we treat our clients like we expect to be treated. If you are seeking a courteous, professional tradesman that shows up on-time and works within your budget, please give us a call!
Porch Pro Headshot NBA Painting Inc.
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
NBA Painting revolves around hard work, dedication, and respect. In whatever we may be working on we do it with the best intentions and leave the job well done. NBA Painting is a reliable company that has praiseworthy prices.
NBA Painting revolves around hard work, dedication, and respect. In whatever we may be working on we do it with the best intentions and leave the job well done. NBA Painting is a reliable company that has praiseworthy prices.
Porch Pro Headshot Adoorable Garages
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
Porch Pro Headshot Van Cura, Don Construction Company
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
Porch Pro Headshot ABL Decorating & Remodeling Inc.
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois
Porch Pro Headshot G.C.M. Construction, LLC
Remodeling Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, Illinois