Home Remodeling Services in Chicago, Illinois

Schultz Remodeling is proud to serve the Chicagoland area, bringing professional, four-season remodeling expertise to one of America's most architecturally diverse cities. Whether you own a classic brick brownstone in Lincoln Park, a bungalow in Portage Park, or a modern condo downtown, our team understands the unique structural and climatic challenges of remodeling in the Windy City. Our commitment to using superior materials and adhering strictly to local codes ensures your project is not only beautiful but built to last against harsh winters and humid summers.

Navigating Chicago's Permits and Building Code

Remodeling in Chicago requires careful navigation of the Department of Buildings (DOB) and adherence to the Chicago Building Code. This is a critical distinction from remodeling in surrounding suburbs. Any project involving structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, or HVAC modifications—which includes almost every major kitchen and bathroom remodel—requires a permit.

• Permit Process: Chicago offers various permit processes, including the Easy Permit Process (EPP) for smaller, standardized projects, and the more rigorous Standard Plan Review for custom or complex renovations. We handle the entire application process, including plan submission and coordinating the required DOB inspections at every phase (rough-in, final).
• Two-Flat Conversions: Converting a two-flat back to a single-family home or updating existing multi-unit buildings has specific zoning and safety requirements (like fire separation and soundproofing) that we specialize in managing.

Climate-Specific Remodeling Considerations

Chicago’s extreme weather demands specialized construction techniques and materials to ensure longevity and energy efficiency.

Winterization and Insulation

The city's infamous winters necessitate superior insulation. We recommend high-R-value spray foam insulation for basements and attics to create a continuous thermal barrier, drastically reducing heat loss. For windows, we exclusively install double- or triple-pane units with Low-E coatings and Argon gas to maximize insulation and prevent drafts, a vital component of any full Window & Door Replacement project.

Moisture and Brickwork

Many Chicago homes are constructed with beautiful, yet porous, brick. Proper flashing and sealing around windows and rooflines is essential to prevent water infiltration caused by freezing and thawing cycles. For roofing, choosing an architectural asphalt shingle or metal roofing rated for high winds and heavy snow loads is critical to withstand lake-effect weather.

Typical Chicago Remodeling Costs (2025 Estimates)

Remodeling costs in Chicago are generally 20-30% higher than national averages due to high labor rates, stricter permitting fees, and the complexity of working within older, existing structures (e.g., plaster removal, structural fixes).

• Kitchen Remodel (Mid-Range): $45,000 - $80,000. Costs trend higher if structural work is required to open up the kitchen/living area, a popular trend in Chicago brownstones.
• Bathroom Remodel (Mid-Range): $20,000 - $35,000. Costs increase significantly for a master bath addition or moving plumbing lines in multi-story units.
• Basement Finishing: $70 - $120 per square foot. Focus must be placed on waterproofing and moisture mitigation before any finishing work begins.

Serving the Chicagoland Area

Our service extends beyond the city limits to suburbs across Cook, DuPage, Lake, and Will counties. We tailor our expertise to local requirements, whether it's navigating the Oak Park Historic Preservation Commission or adhering to specific zoning laws in Naperville. Our goal is always to deliver a project that maximizes comfort, efficiency, and resale value, no matter the neighborhood.

Ready to tackle your next renovation? Read our guide on How to Hire a Remodeling Contractor and contact us for a detailed project estimate.