THOMAS GORTON HOMES

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I expected this project to be constructed in summer and fall of 2010. The architect obtained bids from two contractors, both of whose work she was familiar with. We met with each one and I selected Thomas Gorton Homes on the basis of both the bid and Tom Evans' general approach to the work. Delays having nothing to do with the design or construction of the garage caused the project to be put off until spring and summer of 2011. The work began on 6 June, and was substantially complete on 22 August. After the completion of the new driveway system under a different contract, Tom Evans obtained the final inspection and approval on 11 October. I have been impressed with the quality of the work of each subcontract crew. The demolition, earthwork, and concrete construction crew were precise with every part of the work, used appropriate instruments and measured carefully, respected the surveyor's marks, and finished each aspect of the work carefully. A heavy rainstorm occurred when the excavation was open, and unexpected underground structures were encountered, but all difficulties were handled as though they were not difficult. The carpentry crew were equally exemplary in their construction. Their work is more precise and sound than is typically seen in local residential construction. The electrical work was thoughtfully coordinated by Evans and the electrical contractor. The crew working in the house where the electrical panel is located were both respectful of the residence and precise in their installation, and the installation in the garage is complete and rational. The roofing, siding, and trim work were also executed with precision, dispatch, and completeness. Evans has been ready, on time, responsive, and helpful at each juncture. He was attentive to the details, frequently on the site, and he made sure that all the parts came together and created the intended whole. He and the earthwork crew responded to save the day when we almost had a coordination problem with the separate contractor's crew who arrived to remove a tree. He has been friendly and helpful in the general daily coordination of events around the occupied residence, the small lot, and the neighbors. He has dealt with the Village staff cooperatively and efficiently. He has worked smoothly with the architect, surveyor, and landscape contractor. The completed work is handsome, sound, and functional. The construction experience has been more fun than not this summer. I'm glad to have had Tom Evans in charge.

Tom was a delight to work with. He was always on time, always called when he said he would (sometimes even when he hadn't said he would), always had a smile, even when I asked him take the microwave back out and lower it. A real pain in the neck job. It was just a little too high for me. He was always very professional, and his work showed the love he has for creating in wood. At the end of each day, he swept and cleaned up any mess that had been made that day, and hauled away anything that didn't need to be there. I would HIGHLY recommend Tom Evans for ANY remodel, or new building project, no matter how small or large. In July, our beautifully completed kitchen was chosen to be one of the models being shown in the 2008 Glen Ellyn Kitchen Walk, which benefits Bridge Communities. Without exception, the kitchen was a huge success. Everyone absolutely loved it! Thank you, Tom, for all your suggestions, patience, and time. You made our remodel a wonderful experience. We love it more and more everyday.