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New Prairie Construction Co

Homebuilders, Roofing, General Remodeling,

About us

New Prairie Construction is a full-service, insured general contractor, serving the Champaign–Urbana area since 1988. We have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. All of our crew are certified by the EPA in lead-safe remodeling and OSHA-10 Construction Safety certified. Continuing education for our staff has also included training in mixing and applying historic lime mortars and plasters, wood window restoration, making and applying natural paints and finishes, solar panel installation, energy efficiency and air-sealing, straw bale building, and conferences to keep abreast of the latest techniques and products. We have both a Building Performance Institute (BPI) Certified Building Analyst and a North American Board of Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Certified PV Installation Professional™ on staff. New Prairie’s carpenters have expertise in many areas, but as a general contractor, we also employ a team of insured subcontractors. These include electricians, plumbers, masons, and roofers. Our professional relationships are of long standing, and we stand by our subcontractor work as we do our own. New Prairie is a member of the Midwest Renewable Energy Association, Illinois Solar Energy Association, Window Preservation Alliance, and the Preservation and Conservation Assocation (PACA) of Champaign County. We have won 21 preservation and business awards, and perform regular volunteer work in the community (see more on our website).

Business highlights

36 years of trusted experience

Services we offer

Remodeling * Kitchens & Bathrooms * Additions * Solar Panel Installation * Energy Efficiency & Insulation * Historic Restoration & Renovation * Straw Bale Construction * Green Building Methods * Lead-safe Work Practices

Services we don't offer

We have our own team of carpenters, but we also employ many subcontractors, such as plumbers and masons. If a project is relatively straightforward (i.e., only one tradesperson is involved), then it can be simpler and less expensive to hire that tradesperson directly, and not use a General Contractor. However, we are always available to oversee any job, no matter how small; some of our customers find that gives them peace of mind.

Amenities

Free Estimates
Yes
Warranties
Yes


Accepted payment methods

Check

Photos of past projects

Reviews

4.913 Reviews
Number of StarsImage of DistributionNumber of Ratings
5
85%
4
8%
3
0%
2
8%
1
0%


Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
4.9
value
4.4
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
4.8
punctuality
4.9
Showing 1-13 of 13 reviews

Heather D.
10/2017
5.0
insulation, remodeling, home builders, solar panels, energy audit
  + 3 more
It went extremely well. I attended a Solar 2.0 meeting and was impressed by the Solar program's extensive education about how group purchasing can make sustainable energy affordable. Nicholas assessed our project and we discovered that the Federal credits would help us cut down the cost of some of the electric upgrades we were going to do regardless of adding solar. We created a system with a plan to add even more in the future. Our panels went live in June 2017. Our September bill we created as much electric as we used. The online solar monitoring tool included with our system allows use to see how the system is performing. New Prairie Construction is incredible and therefore very busy. Totally worth the wait. I look forward to hiring them fir future interior remodeling projects.
Description of Work: Solar Panels and Electrical panel upgrade.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks so much for the shout-out, [Member Name Removed]! Please don't hesitate to contact us is you have any concerns or questions in the future.

Jun S.
06/2016
5.0
drywall, insulation, remodeling, siding, home builders
  + 3 more
unknown

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0


Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks for taking the time to give us a review! We appreciate it! --Julie Birdwell & Jill Mulder, New Prairie Construction

Patricia L.
03/2016
2.0
home builders, sunrooms
  + 0 more
The person who came out to talk with us was very pleasant and professional and gave us an estimate but took alot longer to provide the estimate than originally stated and we felt it was too high. She was punctual for our meeting.
Description of Work: Requested estimate for a screened in porch. Did provide an estimate for what we were wanting but we felt the estimate was too high.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
4.0
punctuality
3.0


Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Dear Ms. [Member Name Removed], We're glad to learn that you appreciated our professionalism and demeanor. We're sorry that your experience with our company was not all you had hoped. Just to address a couple of your concerns: Rather than just giving a ballpark estimate, we provide the customers with a very detailed scope of work and a firm bid. It takes a little more time to give such a detailed bid, but the homeowner can then be assured that they're getting a meaningful number and understand exactly what they are paying for. This format also helps with accurate communication between everyone in the field, expediting the time it takes to finish the project and to minimize mistakes. Our prices do tend to be a little higher than some construction companies, but our customers know that their property will be respected and their satisfaction guaranteed. We also do our best to provide our crew with health insurance, retirement, and other benefits to help ensure that we retain highly skilled, creative, and committed employees who consistently do excellent work. This raises our overhead, but we feel it's a win/win for New Prairie and the customers alike. We do apologize for the delay and any inconvenience it caused. Sincerely, Julie Birdwell, Owner New Prairie Construction Company

Donna D.
02/2016
5.0
insulation, roofing, siding, home builders
  + 2 more
Day 1, New Prairie Construction and extended the vents through the roof. Because they finished kind of late, they returned the next morning just to double-check everything Day 2, the sub-contractor completed all insulation including soffit vents, spray foam and cellulose.
Description of Work: Vented 2 bath fans and the range hood fan through the roof (they were originally vented into the attic). They had sub-contractor come in and spray foam knee wall between garage and house, and in attic for all openings and then they blew in insulation to provide R-40 insulation

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
4.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$5,000

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thank you for the review, [Member Name Removed]! We greatly appreciate it. Please let us know if you have any concerns or questions that have arisen; we're always here to help. -- Julie Birdwell & Jill Mulder, NPCC

David W.
01/2016
5.0
drywall, remodeling, home builders, home remodeling
  + 2 more
Things went pretty well. Of course there are always a few little "gotchas" that don't go quite like you expected, but all things considered we were quite pleased. We love our refurbished kitchen, and everything turned out great. The workers did a good job of keeping the mess down and left things usable when they left for the day. (At least to the extent possible during a major do-over.) And they were always courteous and professional. And they kept at the work consistently - no long breaks while they went off and worked on someone else's project. There were a few minor issues that we found after they were done. They were corrected promptly and cheerfully. I will say, they are not the least expensive option around. You won't have much trouble finding someone who will do the work for less. But we've talked to several people who said they went with another contractor based on cost, and regretted the decision later.
Description of Work: Kitchen remodel (floors, counter top, cabinet refinish, paint, popcorn ceiling removal, door replacement) Powder room refurbish (floor, toilet & vanity replacement, popcorn ceiling removal, painting, inset medicine cabinet) Family room spruce-up (popcorn ceiling removal, refinish badly installed drywall from original build, paint) Spruce up two bathrooms. (popcorn ceiling removal, painting, vent fan replacement, one vanity replaced)

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
3.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
4.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$53,000

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks for the review, [Member Name Removed]! We are so glad you're loving the kitchen and we hope it's still performing as you hoped. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any additional concerns. Our prices do tend to be a little higher than some construction companies, but our customers know that their property will be respected and their satisfaction guaranteed. We also do our best to provide our crew with health insurance, retirement, and other benefits to help ensure that we retain highly skilled, creative, and committed employees who consistently do excellent work. This raises our overhead, but we feel it's a win/win for New Prairie and the customers alike. Julie Birdwell & Jill Mulder, New Prairie Construction Company

Don G.
11/2015
5.0
decks, home builders
  + 0 more
We have used New Prairie before and again found them to be thoroughly professional and very knowledgable. They are very pleasant people to work with to a person. They are thorough and meticulous.
Description of Work: Removed old front door deck and installed new supports and ipe decking.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$10,000

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks for the review, [Member Name Removed]! It's always a pleasure to work with you. Please don't hesitate to call if you have any concerns! Sincerely, Jill Mulder & Julie Birdwell, NPCC

Jessica H.
09/2015
4.0
decks, home builders, woodworking
  + 1 more
Needed to have two deck boards replaced. We purchased and cut the boards. The response to the initial inquiry was quick and professional. I was told that the scheduler would get in touch to schedule a time for the repair. I happened to be home early from work when the crew showed up, having finished another job early. There were three or four people working to replace the boards, and it took about 45 minutes. They were prompt and cleaned up after themselves. The invoice was incorrect when, and after a phone call I was sent a new one immediately. Seemed like it could have been a job for one person, but instead we paid the labor for three or four. Despite this, I'd definitely consider this company for any large scale project in the future.
Description of Work: Replaced two rotted deck boards.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
4.0
value
3.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
4.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$220

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks for taking the time to write a review, [Member Name Removed]. We really appreciate the feedback. Sometimes crew members finish up with a project early, and we can send more of them out to do small slip-in jobs such as yours. While one carpenter could have handled the work, it can be finished faster with more. Also, if someone is new on the job, it can be a good time to make sure they are working to New Prairie's high standards. Our prices do tend to be a little higher than some construction companies, but our customers know that their property will be respected and their satisfaction guaranteed. We also do our best to provide our crew with health insurance, retirement, and other benefits to help ensure that we retain highly skilled, creative, and committed employees who consistently do excellent work. This raises our overhead, but we feel it's a win/win for New Prairie and the customers alike. Sincerely, Jill Mulder & Julie Birdwell, NPCC

Alaina P.
07/2015
5.0
home builders
  + -1 more
My bathroom is gorgeous! I would use New Prairie again in a heartbeat. They were courteous and dedicated to getting the job done on time and on budget. Every person who worked on the project, including subcontractors, was incredibly professional and went out of their way to ensure that they communicated with me and that the construction didn't impinge any more than necessary on my daily activities. When unexpected problems popped up, they were clear about what it would cost and how it would impact the timeline. I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome of this remodel.
Description of Work: Bathroom remodel

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$20,000

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks for writing a review, [Member Name Removed]! We hope you are still loving your bathroom. Please let us know if anything has come up that needs addressing. Sincerely, Julie Birdwell & Jill Mulder, NPCC

Brenda C.
07/2015
5.0
roofing
  + -1 more
We had an addition built on our house that had a cantilever. Unfortunately, it was not properly supported and the outer walls were beginning to sag. New Prairie came in and brought the floor to level as much as possible (couldn't bring it all the way due to the poor original construction that they didn't do) and put a new outer foundation on the addition to support the outer walls. I don't think this was a simple job. I had several contractors out who wouldn't touch it. New Prairie knew it needed fixed and didn't back away from the project. They were true professionals and I would work with them again in a heartbeat.
Description of Work: Put a new foundation on an addition.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$25,000

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks so much for the review, [Member Name Removed]! Let us know if we can help you in any way. Sincerely, Jill Mulder & Julie Birdwell, NPCC

Daniel C.
12/2014
5.0
home builders
  + -1 more
great
Description of Work: roof leak repair

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$400

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks, [Member Name Removed]! Julie Birdwell & Jill Mulder, NPCC

David S.
03/2014
5.0
home builders, home remodeling, roofing, woodworking
  + 2 more
Excellent. They have first-rate staff who are skilled, thorough, and thoughtful. Work was done on time. We worked hand-in-hand with them, priming new soffit materials so they could be installed, same for baseboards. Renovations became a collaborative effort. And enjoyable.
Description of Work: Renovate kitchen, two new bathrooms, install new soffits and exterior trim. Took place over 12-15 month period.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks for the review, [Member Name Removed]! Sincerely, Jill Mulder & Julie Birdwell, NPCC

Susan P.
10/2013
5.0
home builders, patios, sunrooms
  + 1 more
I have nothing but good things to say about New Prairie Construction Co; they were awesome. We always knew when they were coming, they were prompt in answering any questions, they were all very clean, the workers were great not only doing a really good job but also interesting to talk to, the estimate was right on the money, just a professional organization. It was great.
Description of Work: We did a porch remodel where we basically took down the whole porch and now we have a library instead with New Prairie Construction Co.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$58,000

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks for writing this review, [Member Name Removed]! It'[Member Information Removed] a please to work with you. Please let us know if you ever have any concerns with any of the projects we've completed for you! Sincerely, Jill Mulder & Julie Birdwell, NPCC

ASSATA Z.
12/2012
5.0
home builders
  + -1 more
It went very well overall. Their bid was good, and they did a professional job.
Description of Work: New Prairie Construction completed work on railings and landing at a public site. They did an excellent job,

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$500

Response from New Prairie Construction Co
Thanks for the review, [Member Name Removed]! Sincerely, Jill Mulder & Julie Birdwell, NPCC

    Contact information

    605 E Main St, Urbana, IL 61802

    http://newprairieconstruction.com

    Service hours

    Monday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Tuesday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Wednesday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Thursday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Friday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Licensing

    Bonded

    Insured

    Licensed*

    Trade License Number
    104.004856, 105.000473
    Trade License Expiration
    12/13/2017

    Eco-friendly Accreditations

    LEED Accredited Professional
    No
    Energy Star Partner
    Yes
    EPA Lead-Safe Certified
    Yes
    Use Green Products or Work Practices
    Yes
    State Contractor License Requirements

    All statements concerning insurance, licenses, and bonds are informational only, and are self-reported. Since insurance, licenses and bonds can expire and can be cancelled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. To find more licensing information for your state, visit our State Contractor License Requirements page.

    *Contact business to see additional licenses.


    Service Categories

    Homebuilders,
    Roofing,
    General Remodeling,
    Insulation,
    Sunrooms and Patio Enclosures,
    Kitchen and Bath Remodeling,
    Finished Carpentry and Woodworking,
    Siding,
    Drywall,
    Decks and Porches,
    Patios,
    Energy Efficiency Auditing

    FAQ

    New Prairie Construction Co is currently rated 4.9 overall out of 5.

    Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    New Prairie Construction Co accepts the following forms of payment: Check
    Yes, New Prairie Construction Co offers free project estimates.
    Yes, New Prairie Construction Co offers eco-friendly accreditations.
    No, New Prairie Construction Co does not offer a senior discount.
    No, New Prairie Construction Co does not offer emergency services.
    Yes, New Prairie Construction Co offers warranties.
    New Prairie Construction Co offers the following services: Remodeling * Kitchens & Bathrooms * Additions * Solar Panel Installation * Energy Efficiency & Insulation * Historic Restoration & Renovation * Straw Bale Construction * Green Building Methods * Lead-safe Work Practices
    We have our own team of carpenters, but we also employ many subcontractors, such as plumbers and masons. If a project is relatively straightforward (i.e., only one tradesperson is involved), then it can be simpler and less expensive to hire that tradesperson directly, and not use a General Contractor. However, we are always available to oversee any job, no matter how small; some of our customers find that gives them peace of mind.

    Contact information

    605 E Main St, Urbana, IL 61802

    http://newprairieconstruction.com

    Service hours

    Monday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Tuesday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Wednesday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Thursday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Friday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM