Design and Permitting / Survey

Unlike some of our competitors, we don't build garage kits. Every project, whether basic or custom is design with your needs and budget in mind.

We obtain the required permits for every project. A site survey is sometimes needed to secure a city permit.

Demolition / Site Preparation

Most of our projects begin with the demolition of an existing garage, tear-out of the concrete slab, and preparation of the new garage site.

Pouring The Slab

A new floating slab with regulation footings to support your new garage. Our basic garage consists of a Keystone style footing with double 5/8" rebar steel reinforcement poured with a 4-5" concrete slab.

After the slab is poured, 8" high x 6" wide masonry block (CMU) is used on most projects to meet the building code. This keeps the siding away from ground and prevents moisture from wicking up causing damage to the siding. Large anchor bolts are placed in the block to secure the framing to the foundation.

Framing

A moisture resistant bottom plate of 2"x 4" green treated wood (to resist moisture between the concrete and construction lumber) is then fastened to the concrete slab with anchor bolts.

Walls are constructed with 2"x 4" stud grade lumber 16" on center. The outside of the framing in covered with 1/2" wood-based sheathing board which are then fastened to the studs for the side walls. We use rust resistant galvanized and ring shank nails in our construction. Ring shanks keeps nails from loosing there grip over time.

Our trusses, which support the roof, are engineered to the specifications of your project. Trusses are set on top of the framing and sheathing is then nailed to complete the roof and gable ends.

Firewall

If your garage is located within 5' of a property line, Minnesota state code requires a fire barrier of 5/8" sheetrock on both sides of a neighboring wall.

Roofing and Siding

We'll match your home's shingle color as close as possible from the products we offer or another system that matches your house if desired. Most customers choose economical vinyl siding however other popular choices such as composite sidings, LP® SmartSide® wood siding, cement siding, stucco are also available.

Garage Doors

A standard two car opening is 7' high by 16' wide however 18' wide x 7' high doors are also commonly used to assist with a tight turning radius with alleyways. We use 2" x 12" headers and/or laminated beams to ensure that your garage door opening does not sag over the years and cause problems with your opening. We can custom fit any size door to your specifications should you have the need.

Our garage doors can be customized to include windows, locks, and an array of colors. We guarantee the door for life and include a one year warranty on parts and labor and five years on the springs. Door openers will be installed at the time of garage door installations if needed.

Electrical Work

Electrical work is the final step and requires a separate permit from the state. It can be done either by the home owner or our licensed electrician.

Build Time

The average garage building schedule is approximately 3-5 weeks from start to completion, however the following items can affect a build schedule:

• City and state building permits, variances, and inspection schedules

• Weather conditions that affect worker safety or the ability to pour concrete

• Availability of special order custom products

• Sub-tradesman availability and schedules

• Home loan financing

• Owner availability such as vacation and travel for work