News + Events

Increasing property value is the goal for this renovation project in Leawood, Kansas. The process begins by creating 700 square feet of additional living space in the home's lower level with a rough-in that provides designated storage space as well. The space above ground is getting a makeover too! The Master Bedroom and Bathroom's new design is just in time for the homeowners' own addition to their family!

Let there be light.....and power! Our team meeting with the homeowners and electrician sheds new light in a dreary space! Things to consider include a solution for lighting the stairway, which LEDs will provide the right amount of light and exactly where to place the cans!

Consistency throughout your home is an added bonus when working with custom craftsmen, as we can match design elements that already exist in your home. Custom plans are reviewed and revised until they are exactly what our clients want!

Quality craftsmanship is what gets delivered when you remodel with us! Stay tuned for more details on the progress of this project!

This article was originally posted on LBM Journal.

Terry E. Skilling, CR founded Rhino Builders in 1996 following an extensive career and education in residential construction and general remodeling. A licensed and insured general contractor with more than 20 years of experience, Skilling is a Certified Remodeler by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Active in service to the industry, Skilling has held the offices of Chairman of the Board, President, Vice President, National Board Representative, Education Chairman and Board Member of NARI. He is also a member of the Better Business Bureau and local Home Builders Associations.

Q: What are the top three things you look for from a LBM supplier? A: We like the suppliers to be involved in the remodeling industry. We like to build relationships with vendors that are active in the development of new partnerships through our local NARI chapter. Vendors that are savvy to industry trends and willing to research products as part of our team are important. We also search for vendors who are specialist in their fields.

Q: Describe your best lumber and building materials vendor. A: We have two that we consider the best. Albert Tamm Lumber Company because of their incredible customer service and longevity of their team members. Tied for best is McCray Lumber and Millwork because of their availability of special materials and commitment to our industry.

Q: When was the last time you changed vendors and why? A: The last time we changed a vendor was because the owner retired and closed his company.

Q: When and why would you accept a meeting from a new supplier/vendor? A: We would meet with a new vendor if we met them in advance at one of our NARI chapter meetings or other industry related event. We also would meet with vendors that were referred to us by NARI or peers.

Q: What do you wish LBM suppliers understood about your business? A: I wish LBM dealers understood the issues that we face with product availability and delivery scheduling, and keeping our projects on schedule.

Q: What products (if any) do you buy installed? A: We purchase custom cabinets, countertops, glass shower doors, custom mirrors, roofing and gutters all installed, just to name a few.

Q: What is the number one problem that keeps you up at night? A: Specialty items that are promised delivery by a certain date and then get back-ordered or detained in shipping.

Q: What do you see as your biggest opportunity? A: Educating the modern consumer on the challenges of purchasing products online versus in-person at a vendor showroom.

Structural engineering plans crafted by Norton & Schmidt Consulting Engineers are designed to support this homeowner's wish for an open living space and to hold up the 2nd floor! Our well-trained professionals, Brian and Michael are facilitating the installation of the support beam!

Going up, up, up and right into that space left by the wall that was removed! Proper fit and support ensures cracked walls are not a part of this home's future! This renovation will "live long and prosper"!

We Won!!

On Friday, April 7th the National CotY Winners were announced. Our special moment is captured on this video at the 12:30 mark. Yes, we were jumping up and down!

Terry was selected to judge the NARI CotY 2017 Awards this year! He is honored to participate and knows a thing or two about award winning remodels. For over 20 years Terry has upheld the highest standards that insure the integrity of the remodeling industry. A CotY Award winner is a project entry that demonstrates remodeling excellence. He will follow the CotY Judging Process on projects in up to 35 categories! He is excited about getting the inside scoop on so many outstanding projects! Judging will be completed mid January. Stay tuned for the results!