| HeraldNet - Snohomish County's online news source |
 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2010 2:21 pm |
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Stanwood family takes time with craftsmanship Jerry Hakala learned his trade at the knee of an old-school carpenter.His mentor instilled in him a need to do the job right, even if it means taking more steps or time. That's why today, Hakala can point to the seamless, tightly built mantels in his workshop with pride. "He is a perfectionist," said his wife, Suzie Hakala. "He likes things accurate and right." The Hakalas and their sons, Jonnie and Peter, form the business Masterpiece Mantle and Staircase Co. The family lives in a country Victorian home all four of the Hakala children helped build on 5 1/2 acres in Stanwood. The sons live above a separate shop, where sawdust settles on mantels destined for the hearths of others. The company used to be focused almost entirely on building mantels and staircases for new construction, but with the downturn in the housing market, the family works on many remodels. Apparently, there is no shortage of 1990s-era homes with poorly crafted staircases that are now falling apart. Three-quarters of their work is staircases, which can range from $4,000 to $20,000 or more depending on the complexity of the job, the materials and the size of the staircase. The expense of a staircase and the wear and use it takes make good craftsmanship essential, Hakala said. "It should stay firm and take a beating," he said. "It also should have some charm." When it comes to mantels, many customers are opting for a Craftsman style, Hakala said. The company produces mantels designed to be painted both as a shelf and as a surround. A paint-grade mantel is typically made with composite wood and costs range from $600 to $1,200. Mantels destined to be stained are made of solid wood. Stainable mantels made of alder and cherry are popular, he said. These usually cost between $650 and $2,000 depending on the amount of details and the type of wood. "We can take the time to do a quality piece of work," he said. "For me, there's much more enjoyment in doing a job well done." Debra Smith 425-339-3197 dsmith@heraldnet.com Masterpiece Mantle And Staircase Co. 360-629-0885; www.masterpiecemantle.com |
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