IL License Number: 104.017181

CASE STUDY

Megan & Martin – Full Exterior Transformation with Cottage-Inspired Elegance

Location: Wauconda Road, Wauconda, IL
Timeline: March – June 2025
Project Type: Full exterior renovation — siding, trim, windows, doors, and lighting on a two-story, 2,700 sq. ft. home
Project Value: $46,250

Home Exterior Renovation Wauconda IL

The Challenge

When Megan first reached out to us in March 2025, she and her husband Martin were in a tough spot. Their cedar siding was worn and outdated, and the trim and garage details made the house look tired. But more than that, they had been burned by a previous contractor who left them with unfinished work and frustration.

They wanted their home to look fresh, warm, and timeless, but they also needed something more: a contractor they could actually trust.

Worn and Outdated Cedar Siding on a Home in Wauconda IL
Worn and Outdated Cedar Siding.

Why They Chose Holda Construction

Megan filled out our website form, and within an hour I gave her a call. That quick response immediately set a different tone. When we explained our $350 paid consultation model — a thorough inspection, professional design guidance, and full credit if the project moved forward — it didn’t scare them off. In fact, Megan told us, “It actually made us trust you more.”

From there, we scheduled Zoom calls so we could talk through ideas. Megan leaned into the design direction — showing us colors and styles she loved — while Martin focused on durability and long-term maintenance. That balance between creativity and practicality became the foundation of the project.

Drone Used During Initial Roof and Siding Inspection in Wauconda IL
Drone was used during initial Roof and Siding Inspection.

Our Approach

We started with a detailed on-site inspection. Megan greeted me at the door with the consultation fee in hand and said, “I appreciate you being upfront. It made us take this more seriously.”

The inspection uncovered a few issues, including wood rot around the windows. Instead of surprising them later, we documented everything, shared photos, and explained the costs clearly. For example, when we found the rot, we texted: “4 hrs @ $75 + $200 materials.” Within an hour, Megan replied, “Please proceed.” That transparency built confidence throughout the process.

The Design Plan

  • Main siding: Mastic Quest Double 4″ straight lap vinyl in Tuscan Olive
  • Trim: LP SmartSide in Almond
  • Gable accents: Shake-style siding in Tuscan Olive
  • Windows & doors: Marvin aluminum-clad units
  • Lighting: Copper fixtures (Megan’s personal choice)
  • Garage door: Refinished in Almond by Daniel, our painting subcontractor

These choices created the cottage-inspired look Megan envisioned — warm, charming, and low-maintenance.

Results of Full Exterior Renovation in Wauconda IL
Cottage-inspired look.

The Team

This project really highlighted the people-side of our business.

  • Mariusz Holda (owner) handled design consultation, communication, and oversight.
  • Barbara Holda (office manager) kept contracts, scheduling, and SMS updates organized.
  • Mariusz Dziekonski (foreman) led the installation and daily site management.
  • Mark (Tall) focused on precise details and layout.
  • Mark (Short) brought efficient installation techniques and problem-solving.
  • Daniel (subcontractor) handled painting, including the garage door refinishing.

This project really highlighted the people-side of our business.

Yes — two Mariusz’s and two Marks on one project. What could have been confusing turned into an ongoing joke between us and the homeowners. Martin even told coworkers about it: “They think I’m making it up!

The Results

By late April, the transformation was complete. The Tuscan Olive siding brought depth and character, while the Almond trim gave crisp contrast. Shake accents added texture to the gables, and copper lights brought warmth. The garage door, once mismatched, now looked brand new.
The practical results were just as strong:
  • No leaks after spring rains
  • Durable, low-maintenance exterior
  • Structural issues repaired properly
  • Daily cleanups and nail sweeps

And emotionally, the difference was clear. At the final walkthrough, Megan said: “It’s perfect. It’s exactly what I envisioned but even better.”

Since then, they’ve referred five neighbors (three of whom are now clients) and are already planning future projects with us, including more Marvin windows and entry doors.

Takeaways

This project is a great example of why we do things the way we do:
  • Paid consultations build trust. Homeowners take us seriously, and we can deliver real value before a contract is signed.
  • Transparency matters. Proposals and invoices are different, and we always handle extras with written change orders.
  • Communication keeps things smooth. Real-time SMS updates meant no delays, no guessing, and no surprises.
  • People make the difference. From Barbara in the office to the Marks on-site, every person mattered to Megan and Martin’s experience.

Are We the Right Fit for You?

If you’re a Northwest Suburban homeowner with similar issues: dealing with aging siding, fading trim, or the stress of finding a contractor who will follow through, our family business might be the right fit for you. Contact us online or by calling 847.847.2883, and we’ll be happy to help!

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Thinking Exterior Renovation? Let's talk!

Mariusz Holda

Owner: Mariusz Holda

📞 FREE Consultations (Call or Text):
847.847.2883

Hear From the Homeowner

Your home is likely your biggest financial asset—and ours now looks brand new. We couldn’t be happier with the final result, and we’re so grateful to Holda Construction for making this a smooth, partnering, and stress-free experience. We simply cannot recommend Holda Construction enough!

Outdated and Worn Exterior

Transformation in Progress

New Cottage Inspired Look