Frequently Asked Questions

Who are you?

We are Nadeaus Ice House, the Oldest and Largest Ice Carving Company in the US ! Founded by Jim Nadeau, we manage dry ice, cocktail ice, and custom Ice Sculptures and Installations for thousands of clients throughout the Chicagoland area and beyond. Everything we create is made to order with Ice grown in our specialized facility.  The last thing you want to worry about on your wedding day is whether or not your ice sculpture is delivered to your reception on time or shows up at all. At Nadeau's we have been carving, transporting, and setting up carvings in the Chicagoland Area since 1980. We know how to do it right! Most banquet halls, hotels, country clubs and restaurants have used us or know of our work. Our talented ice carvers can and have carved almost anything imaginable and we encourage you to be creative. 

What’s the Biggest Sculpture you’ve made ? 

A train for a Nabisco Holiday party in East Hanover, New Jersey. I t was 100 ft long, 13 ft tall, weighed 84 tons and was filled with Oreo cookies 

How long does a sculpture take to carve ?

Most basic carvings take about an hour per block, while more elaborate designs could take many hours and a variety of techniques to execute.

HOW MUCH Does an ICE CARVING WEIGH?

A full block of ice weighs approximately 360 lbs. When it is carved, a typical full block carving weighs about 250 lbs. and a half block about 125 lbs. Larger sculptures with multiple blocks may require additional support, or floor placement. Our sales associate will be able to go over setup options with you based on your requirment

Why Ice ? isn't going to melt!? 

Ice is one of the most versatile and customizable décor options for any event, with a wide range of prices to suit your event budget. We offer everything from punch bowls and party luges, to life-sized replicas and elaborate multi-block displays. At an indoor event, the sculpture will last from 8 to 15 hrs at room temperature, however it can take up to 2 days to melt down completely. 

Will my sculpture leak?

Nadeau’s will deliver quality drainage products and instruction for maintenance as agreed within the sales order for the easiest drainage possible.   Client accepts liability associated to drain gear water levels and must ensure it is checked and emptied if/when necessary. The client is responsible for breakdown and disposal of all sculptures unless discussed. Nadeau’s reserves the right to request a “Rush Breakdown Fee” of 300$ for any breakdown requests within 24 hours of event. 

How much space will my sculpture take up?

Please see our Tray Size Reference Sheet for details on your setup supplies

What if I need to cancel my order?

We understand that circumstances may arise where cancellation may be necessary; including but not limited to inclement weather, sickness, and logistical issues. If you do have to move the date Nadeau’s will do its best to accommodate the delivery of your sculpture. Nadeau’s may retain a $100 cancellation fee per confirmed order rather than the invoiced total amount.  This will be at at Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures Discretion. ALL SALES ARE FINAL, NO REFUNDS

 What if there’s a Fire? A Flood? A Tornado?!

We do everything that we can to ensure a safe, sturdy, and leak-proof Sculpture experience. Unfortunately, once we depart and your event begins we no longer have control over what happens to the sculpture. Random acts of God , rowdy guests, and unexpected issues may happen, so it is always our recommendation to have Special Event Insurance for just such situations.

What if I have more questions?

Then please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Info@nadeauice.com