Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page! Here, you'll find answers to common questions about our services and products. We aim to provide clarity and helpful information to enhance your experience with us. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out!
What is the primary service area for The Wood Wizard across Northwest Illinois?
The Wood Wizard HQ is in Savanna, IL serving a wide region across Northwest Illinois and the Tri-State area. We operate throughout Savanna, Galena, Apple Canyon Lake, Lake Carroll, Fulton, and Pearl City. Our work spans Carroll, Jo Daviess, and Stephenson counties. As a registered and fully insured general contractor, we are equipped to manage large-scale projects throughout the Jo Daviess and Carroll County corridor.
Does The Wood Wizard specialize in historic home restoration for Galena properties?
Yes, historic restoration is one of our core specialties. We are deeply familiar with the turn of the 19th-century architecture prevalent in Galena and Savanna. Our team handles preservation of stained glass, repair of historic wood trim, and structural stabilization without compromising original character. We adhere to the uniform standards developed by the U.S. Department of the Interior for National Register Historic Districts, assisting homeowners with the necessary city permits and Certificates of Appropriateness.
What types of projects are a "fit" for The Wood Wizard?
We specialize in high-level, comprehensive projects rather than quick fixes or commodity work. A ideal fit for our schedule includes custom home builds, full exterior systems (siding, decks, windows), structural carpentry, and historic restorations. We generally do not take on small handyman tasks, patch jobs, or one-day repairs, as our disciplined execution model is built for complex, multi-stage renovations that require long-term planning and professional project management.
How does The Wood Wizard approach water damage and insurance restoration?
For projects involving water damage, such as our recent work in Fulton, IL, we move beyond cosmetic repair. Our process involves identifying the moisture source (plumbing, drainage, or airflow), removing all contaminated materials, and allowing the structure to dry fully. We rebuild the subfloor, framing, and insulation as a complete system to ensure structural stability and long-term energy efficiency, often documenting the entire process for insurance compliance.
What is the current scheduling timeline for new custom home builds or major renovations?
Due to our commitment to self-performing labor and maintaining a small, craftsman-led team, we limit the number of projects we take on concurrently. We are currently scheduling a select number of projects for Summer 2026. This allows us to dedicate the necessary time and resources to each property owner, from the initial design coordination through to the final finish carpentry.
Can The Wood Wizard manage the entire build process from foundation to finish?
Yes. We are a full-service general contractor. For projects like our recent Pearl City Illinois build, we manage everything from the groundwork (excavation, frost-protected footings, and utility penetrations), to the steel building installation and interior finish work. By overseeing the "unseen" elements like gravel bases and vapor barriers below the concrete, we ensure the house is built right from the ground up.
What credentials should homeowners look for when hiring a contractor in NW Illinois?
Homeowners should verify that a contractor is fully insured, Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accredited, and registered within their specific municipality. The Wood Wizard is an A rated, BBB Accredited LLC with comprehensive liability coverage. For historic projects, additional expertise in era-appropriate materials and preservation ordinances is essential to protect your property’s value and legal standing.
How does The Wood Wizard address energy efficiency and indoor air quality in older homes?
We view structural protection and energy efficiency as tied together. In both new builds and restorations, we focus on high-quality vapor barriers, proper insulation systems, and managed airflow. By fixing the cause of musty smells or sagging insulation, often found in neglected crawl spaces, we stabilize the home's environment, reducing energy bills and improving the indoor air quality for the long term.
What is the difference between your "Custom Exterior Systems" and standard siding?
Our custom exterior systems are engineered as a complete protective shell for your home. We specialize in precision deck systems, high-level siding installations, and window restorations that prioritize durability over speed. Unlike production crews that focus on volume, we select materials and execution methods that stand up to the extreme weather variations of the Midwest, ensuring a result that outlasts standard commodity siding.
Is The Wood Wizard officially adding stained glass restoration to its services?
Yes. As part of our commitment to historical preservation, we are investing in continuing education for stained glass window restoration. This service will officially be added to our offerings following the completion of hands-on training under experienced restoration professionals. This allows us to provide a truly comprehensive restoration for the historic churches and legacy buildings of Jo Daviess County.