CASE STUDY

The Grochowski Project: From Siding to Supper - A Project With Heart

Location: Hoffman Estates, IL
Timeline: July – August 2025
Project Type: Siding Installation, Soffit & Fascia Replacement, Gutter System Upgrade, Rot Repair on a One-Story Ranch Home
Total Investment: $37,700 contract + $1,400 change order = $39,100

Defining the Homeowner’s Problem

After nearly two decades, Gary and Betty Grochowski’s one-story ranch in Hoffman Estates was showing its age. The vinyl siding was worn and outdated, seams stood out across the façade, and the aluminum fascia wraps were dented. Worse, hidden water damage had begun to cause fascia rot near the gutters.

Gary described their decision to finally take action:

“This year my wife and I decided it was time to get the siding, soffit, and fascia replaced on our house. As with any home improvement, we began the dreaded ‘get estimates’ process. After the presentations, we were truly impressed with Holda Construction. The owner Mariusz beat the others hands down.”

The risks of ignoring the problem were serious: spreading rot could compromise the roofline, failing gutters risked collapse during winter, and outdated vinyl wouldn’t provide the protection or curb appeal the homeowners wanted.

Finding a Guide You Can Trust

Gary and Betty interviewed multiple contractors, but they chose Holda Construction Roofing & Siding for one key reason: trust.

“Mariusz took the time to explain the process and the options we had for the material. He also made excellent recommendations on some other items we had not thought about. The best part of this was there was absolutely no pressure.”
– Gary –

The Grochowskis valued the clarity, the open communication, and the absence of sales pressure. They found not just a contractor, but a guide they could rely on.

Proposed and Actual Solutions

Scope of Work

Premium Materials: LP® SmartSide® lap siding (Cavern Steel, 16′ boards) for fewer seams and a natural wood look; LP® Snow Cap White trim with flashing tape; HardieWrap® weather barrier. While the Grochowski’s had vinyl before, Gary spoke of taking great pride in the appearance of his siding, meticulously cleaning it, and longed for the wood-grain look LP SmartSide can provide.
Ventilation & Drainage: White aluminum soffit and fascia, new gutters, two downspouts, and premium gutter guards.
Rot Repair: Midway through, fascia rot was uncovered. With full transparency, we issued a written change order (+$1,400). The homeowners approved immediately, knowing the system would be properly protected.
Craftsmanship & Care: Attention to detail down to wiping down the new gutters before leaving the site.

Team Involved

Mariusz Holda (Owner): Guided planning and homeowner decisions.
Barbara Holda (Operations): Coordinated logistics and communication.
Mariusz D (Foreman): Directed daily work, led walkthroughs, ensured quality.
Senior Installers Mark & Mark: Precision on siding, trim, soffit, fascia.
Kevin Holda: Delivered materials and samples, keeping progress on schedule.

Unique Challenge

The discovery of fascia rot could have derailed the project or created tension. Instead, with a simple change order and immediate homeowner approval, the team addressed it directly—no delays, no surprises, no hidden markups.

The Transformation

The results were dramatic: clean lines, bright white trim, and bold Cavern Steel siding gave the ranch a fresh, modern look. The chimney was capped and wrapped in matching white panels, blending seamlessly with the home’s updated profile. Minor roofing repairs addressed leaks, and outdated brick was replaced, completing the new curb appeal.

Gary reflected on the process:

“From the first day the project went off like clockwork. They kept us informed throughout the project and their communications were excellent. I have done many remodel projects and have to say this is the most professional crew I have ever worked with. Their craftsmanship is superb and they left my property spotless when the project was over.”

For the Grochowskis, the benefits went beyond the exterior. The home now has reliable protection against weather, renewed pride of ownership, and peace of mind heading into the harsh Midwest winters.

Project Timeline

Day 1 – Initial Consultation & Estimate
Gary and Betty contacted Holda Construction after comparing multiple contractors and BBB ratings. We discussed their goals, concerns about siding seams, and the need for durability before winter.
Day 2 – On-Site Inspection & Design Options
A full walk-around inspection was completed with detailed measurements. We evaluated existing siding and trim, then presented LP® SmartSide® Cavern Steel siding with Snow Cap White trim as the best fit for their home.
Day 3 – Pre-Construction Planning
Work hours, site access, and delivery schedules were confirmed. Driveway protection (plywood and tarps) was planned to prevent forklift/tire marks. The transparent scope and budget were locked in at $37,700.
Day 4-6 – Installation & Change Order
The crew removed old materials, installed HardieWrap®, flashing, soffit, fascia, siding, and the gutter system with daily walkthroughs. On Day 3 of installation, hidden fascia rot was uncovered. The $1,400 change order was approved instantly and repaired without delay.
Day 7 – Final Walkthrough & Celebration
The Grochowskis reviewed the completed work and were thrilled with the results. To show their appreciation, they hosted the crew for a traditional Polish feast—transforming a construction project into a memory of mutual admiration and family warmth.

Conclusion

The Grochowski Project was more than siding, gutters, soffit, fascia and trim —it was a relationship. Gary and Betty not only approved every step with confidence, but also shared fresh vegetables from their garden with the crew. When the project wrapped, they hosted a Polish feast for the entire team.

“As the project went on it felt like they had become part of my family. At the end of the project we had a lunch feast for the crew and we were actually sad to see them go.”
– Gary –

By combining premium materials, skilled craftsmanship, and honest communication, Holda Construction delivered a $39,100 renovation that secured the home’s structure and elevated its style.

And just as important: we left behind more than a finished project—we left behind friendship and trust.

Are you a Northwest Suburban homeowner facing similar siding, soffit, or gutter concerns? Schedule an inspection with Holda Construction today by calling 847.847.2883 or contacting us online.

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Thinking Exterior Renovation? Let's talk!

Hear From the Homeowner

From the first day on the project went off like clockwork. They kept us informed through out the project and their communications were excellent, best of all no surprises throughout the project.

The Grochowski Project: From Siding to Supper - A Project With Heart

Defining the Homeowner’s Problem

Finding a Guide You Can Trust

Proposed and Actual Solutions

Scope of Work

Team Involved

Unique Challenge

The Transformation

Project Timeline

Conclusion

Get Free Quote

Thinking Exterior Renovation? Let's talk!

Owner: Mariusz Holda

Hear From the Homeowner

From the first day on the project went off like clockwork. They kept us informed through out the project and their communications were excellent, best of all no surprises throughout the project.

Exterior Wear and Tear

Transformation in Progress

New Look Complete

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