Featured Project: 1890s Historic Home Complete Renovation - Kankakee, IL

This complete gut renovation of an 1890s historic home in Kankakee showcases Silva''s Remodeling''s expertise in full house remodeling. We took this home down to the studs, addressing structural issues, upgrading all mechanical systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), and rebuilding with modern materials while preserving historic character.

Project Scope: Stud-Out Complete Renovation

1890s Home
Completely Transformed
12 Trades
Coordinated
All Systems
Upgraded
Modern Codes
Full Compliance

What is a Complete Full House Remodel?

A full house remodel (also called a gut renovation or whole house remodel) involves stripping a home down to its structural framing (studs, joists, rafters) and rebuilding from the inside out. Unlike single-room renovations, a complete house remodel addresses:

  • Structural integrity - Foundation, framing, load-bearing walls
  • Mechanical systems - Electrical (full rewire), plumbing (repipe), HVAC (new system)
  • Insulation & efficiency - Modern insulation, vapor barriers, energy efficiency
  • All finishes - Drywall, flooring, trim, doors, windows
  • Kitchen & bathrooms - Complete redesign and installation
  • Code compliance - Bringing older homes up to current building codes

Why Choose Silva''s Remodeling for Your Complete Home Renovation?

All Trades In-House

We coordinate all 12+ trades needed for a full house remodel: demolition, structural, framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, drywall, painting, flooring, carpentry, and finish work. One general contractor managing everything.

Historic Home Expertise

30+ years renovating 1890s-1950s homes across Illinois. We understand balloon framing, knob-and-tube electrical, galvanized plumbing, plaster walls, and how to preserve character while modernizing systems.

Licensed & Permitted

Fully licensed general contractor with experience obtaining permits for major renovations. We handle all inspections, code compliance, and work with local building departments throughout Illinois.

Transparent Pricing

Detailed quotes breaking down every trade, material, and timeline. No hidden fees. We provide realistic budgets for gut renovations ($150-$300+ per sq ft depending on finishes) with clear change order procedures.

Complete Full House Remodel Process: 15 Phases

Every trade in the exact order we execute them for a complete gut renovation. Timeline: 3-6 months depending on scope.

Full House Remodel Scope Options

Choose the level of renovation based on which trades and systems your home needs

Cosmetic Remodel Only

Interior finishes - No mechanical or structural work

  • Included Trades:
  • ? Interior Painting
  • ? Flooring Installation
  • ? Kitchen Cabinets & Countertops
  • ? Bathroom Vanities & Fixtures
  • ? Trim & Millwork
  • ? Light Fixture Updates

  • Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and structure remain as-is

Stud-Out Remodel

Complete interior renovation with all systems replaced

  • Included Trades:
  • ? Demolition to Studs
  • ? Complete Electrical System
  • ? Complete Plumbing System
  • ? New HVAC Installation
  • ? Insulation & Air Sealing
  • ? Drywall Installation
  • ? Interior Painting
  • ? Flooring Throughout
  • ? Kitchen & Bathroom Remodel
  • ? Trim, Doors & Hardware
Most Common for 1890s-1920s Homes

Full Extensive Remodel

Foundation to roof - Everything replaced or repaired

  • All Stud-Out Trades PLUS:
  • ? Foundation Repairs/Reinforcement
  • ? Structural Framing Repairs
  • ? Floor Joist Sistering
  • ? New Windows & Doors
  • ? Roof Replacement
  • ? Siding Repair/Replacement
  • ? Exterior Painting
  • ? Hazard Abatement (Lead/Asbestos)

  • For homes with significant structural issues

Not sure which scope you need? We'll inspect your home and recommend only the trades necessary for your situation.
Schedule a free consultation: (708) 270-7794

Historic Home Renovation Specialists

Silva''s Remodeling has 30+ years of experience renovating historic homes (1890s-1950s) across Kankakee County and Illinois. We understand the unique challenges of older homes:

Common Issues We Fix

  • Knob-and-tube electrical (fire hazard)
  • Galvanized plumbing (rust, leaks)
  • Balloon framing (fire spread risk)
  • No insulation (energy loss)
  • Plaster/lath walls (cracking)
  • Foundation settling
  • Outdated HVAC/no AC

How We Modernize

  • Complete rewire (200-amp service)
  • PEX repipe (whole house)
  • Fire blocking between floors
  • Spray foam insulation (R20+ walls)
  • Drywall over lath/plaster
  • Foundation stabilization
  • Central air installation

Preserving Character

  • Matching historic trim profiles
  • Restoring original hardwood floors
  • Preserving pocket doors
  • Maintaining room layouts (when possible)
  • Period-appropriate fixtures
  • Historic window restoration options
  • Keeping architectural details

Benefits of a Complete Full House Remodel

Increase Home Value

Gut renovations can increase home value by 50-100%. ROI on full remodels typically 70-90%.

Energy Efficiency

Modern insulation, HVAC, windows can cut energy bills by 40-60%. Green tax credits available.

Custom Design

Build your dream home from the studs up. Open floor plans, custom kitchens, luxury bathrooms.

Safety & Code Compliance

Address electrical hazards, structural issues, plumbing problems. Bring home to current codes.

Warranty Peace of Mind

New systems = warranties. 10yr HVAC, 25yr roof, lifetime windows. Fewer repairs for decades.

Like-New Home

Essentially a new home at existing-home prices. Better than buying new construction.

Full House Remodel FAQs

How long does a complete house remodel take?

Typical timeline: 3-6 months depending on home size, scope, and finishes. Small homes (1,000-1,500 sq ft) with straightforward layouts can be completed in 3 months. Larger homes (2,000-3,000+ sq ft) or complex renovations (moving walls, extensive structural work) take 4-6 months. Weather, material delays, and permit processing can extend timelines.

Can I live in my home during a full house remodel?

Not recommended for complete gut renovations. During demolition and rough-in phases (weeks 1-8), the home has no working plumbing, electricity, or HVAC. Dust, noise, and safety hazards make it unlivable. Most clients relocate to rental property, stay with family, or plan extended vacation. Phased renovations (one floor at a time) allow occupancy but extend timeline 30-50%.

Do I need permits for a full house remodel?

Yes, absolutely. Full house remodels require building permits (structural, general construction), electrical permits (rewire), plumbing permits (repipe), and HVAC permits (new system). We handle all permit applications, inspections, and final approvals. Permits typically cost $1,500-$4,000 depending on jurisdiction and scope. Unpermitted work risks fines, resale issues, and insurance claims denial.

What''s included in a stud-out renovation?

A stud-out (or gut renovation) means stripping the home to structural framing only. We remove: all drywall/plaster, old electrical/plumbing, insulation, flooring, fixtures, cabinets, trim. What remains: exterior walls (studs), floor joists, ceiling joists, roof framing. Then we rebuild everything from scratch - it''s essentially a new home inside the old shell.

Is a full house remodel worth it vs. buying new?

Usually yes, especially in established neighborhoods. Full remodel costs $150-$300/sq ft. New construction costs $200-$400+/sq ft plus land. Remodeling lets you stay in your desired location, preserve lot size/mature landscaping, and avoid competitive buying markets. Best for homes with good bones (solid foundation, good location). Not worth it if foundation is severely compromised or lot is undersized.

What financing options are available?

We work with homeowners using: Home equity loans/HELOCs (lowest rates, 6-8%), Cash-out refinancing (roll into mortgage), 203(k) FHA renovation loans (for purchases + remodel), Construction loans (draw-based funding), Personal loans (no home equity required). Many clients combine methods. We provide detailed quotes for lender approval and work with project financing partners.

Full House Remodeling Service Areas

Serving 40+ cities across Illinois with complete home renovation services

Kankakee County

Kankakee, Bourbonnais, Bradley, Manteno, Momence, Herscher, St. Anne, Grant Park, Aroma Park

Chicago South Suburbs

Orland Park, Frankfort, Tinley Park, New Lenox, Mokena, Homer Glen, Lockport, Joliet, Oak Forest

Will County

Crete, Monee, Peotone, Beecher, Manhattan, Wilmington, Channahon

Ready to Transform Your Illinois Home?

Schedule your free consultation and project estimate today

30+ years experience | Licensed & insured | Full-service general contractor

708-270-7794 Request Consultation
Free In-Home Estimates Detailed Project Plans Transparent Pricing All Permits Handled