There are two main design features to consider as you select a wood for your trim: color and grain. Color can be adjusted through stain, while grain gives the wood its style and character. … [Full story]
There are several species of hardwoods that have very bold natural color, such as cherry, walnut, and mahogany. Historically these were the most desirable woods, due to their natural beauty and no need to stain … [Full story]
"I have ugly carpeted stairs, and I want the look of a nice hardwood custom made stair. Should I cover my existing stair with hardwood or replace with new stairs?" … [Full story]
Twenty years ago if you wanted hardwood flooring, it was pretty much limited to "red oak 2-1/4" strips". Today we can choose from imported tropical hardwoods, and engineered flooring from laminates to … [Full story]
There are many choices in hardwood flooring today. A recent search revealed over 25 species of readily available hardwood flooring from which to select. Over half of these species are imported from other … [Full story]
Maple is a popular wood for interior trim, flooring and stairs. Maple has natural beauty with a smooth surface due to the closed grain properties of the wood. The hardness of maple makes it a great choice … [Full story]
As with styles, components made from wood species that are stocked will always cost less than custom orders. We have noticed a trend over the past 8 to 10 years to natural or brown species. … [Full story]
For hundreds of years cherry has a been a desirable wood species due to its beautiful natural color; its subtle grain lends itself to elegant applications. Cherry is an excellent wood for furniture, cabinets, and stairs. … [Full story]
More and more we are investing in the highest quality products for outdoor living spaces. We want our outdoor space to be another room to relax and entertain in. No longer is the "deck" stair enough. … [Full story]
The vast majority of stocked stair parts are red oak and white oak is very likely to be a custom order. Since the raw material of white oak is more expensive and White oak parts are generally custom ordered, a white oak staircase will cost more than a red … [Full story]
When we quote stairs in custom wood species we often hear the question: "Why are stairs in custom wood species so much more expensive than oak?" … [Full story]
We often get asked the question: "What parts of my stair should I paint and what should I stain?" When determining what to stain and what to paint, think about the overall feel you want in your space. … [Full story]
Bamboo has become popular in the past few years. It is desirable due to its sustainability and unique appearance. Bamboo is a unique material, and has some limitations compared to other wood species. … [Full story]
The environmental conditions inside the house are critical to the quality of the stair. Hardwood lumber has been dried through a very controlled process to an industry standard moisture content of 6-8%. … [Full story]
Installing throughout the greater Chicago area; Selling to all 50 states
Designed Stairs
Showroom (by appointment only), Shop, and Offices
1480 E Sixth Street
Sandwich IL 60548
815-786-7600
