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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Welcome to the Barefoot Construction Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page! As a Minnesota-based builder specializing in custom decks, transformative basement finishings, and seamless home additions, we understand that starting a major home project can bring up a lot of questions—especially concerning our unique climate, local building codes, and permitting process.

We’ve compiled answers to the most common queries from homeowners across the Twin Cities metro and beyond to ensure your journey from dream to finished space is as transparent, smooth, and stress-free as possible.

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While traditional wood is a more affordable upfront choice, we often recommend composite decking for Minnesota homeowners. High-quality composites (like TimberTech) are engineered to withstand our extreme temperature fluctuations and moisture, resisting warping, cracking, and splintering. This means virtually no maintenance and a longer lifespan, making it a better long-term investment against the elements.

Minnesota building code typically requires that footings for decks, additions, and garages be placed below a 42-inch frost depth (this can vary slightly by location). Barefoot Construction ensures all foundations are secured with piers—often helical piers—that extend below this depth. This prevents frost heave, ensuring your new structure remains level and stable for decades.

A building permit is required for any new deck construction or substantial deck replacement in every Minnesota municipality. Barefoot Construction manages the entire permitting process on your behalf, from preparing the site plan and design drawings to submitting the application and coordinating all necessary local inspections.

Yes, safety is paramount. According to the Minnesota Residential Building Code, if your finished basement includes a sleeping area (bedroom), that room must have an egress window and a compliant window well to serve as an emergency exit. We ensure all basement projects meet this critical safety and code requirement.

The cost and timeline depend entirely on the scope (e.g., adding a bathroom, a wet bar, or just living space). Generally, a standard basement finish can take anywhere from 6 to 10 weeks of construction time. We provide a detailed, itemized estimate and a clear project schedule during the design phase.

We first inspect for proper exterior grading and foundation integrity. For persistent moisture, we may recommend waterproofing or drainage solutions. As for radon, which is common in Minnesota, we strongly recommend testing. If levels are high, we install a proper radon mitigation system before finishing the space to ensure a safe, healthy living environment.

Yes, we specialize in the design-build approach. This means we handle both the architectural design and the construction of your project. This approach streamlines communication, keeps the budget transparent, and significantly reduces the timeline compared to hiring a separate architect and then a builder.

The “better” choice depends on your needs. A home addition is ideal for seamlessly increasing living space (e.g., a new master suite or family room). A detached garage provides excellent space for vehicles, storage, or a workshop, and is often simpler and less expensive to permit and build than adding square footage directly to your home.

Absolutely. Barefoot Construction is a fully licensed residential contractor in the state of Minnesota. Our Minnesota Residential Building Contractor License is #BC639592. We also carry all required liability and workers’ compensation insurance to protect both our crew and your property throughout the project.

For superior protection, we often recommend installing high-quality, architectural asphalt shingles or impact-resistant shingles. These options have a heavier composition and better resistance ratings against common Minnesota weather, including hail strikes and strong winds, offering longer product warranties and better performance than standard 3-tab shingles.

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Cities We Service

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Andover		Basement Finishing &
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Bethel		Basement Finishing &
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Blaine		Basement Finishing &
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Cambridge
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Circle Pines		Basement Finishing &
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Corcoran		Basement Finishing &
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Dayton		Basement Finishing &
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East Bethel
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Elk River		Basement Finishing &
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Forest Lake		Basement Finishing &
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Ham Lake		Basement Finishing &
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Isanti
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Maple Grove		Basement Finishing &
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Monticello		Basement Finishing &
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Nowthen		Basement Finishing &
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Otsego
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Princeton		Basement Finishing &
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Ramsey		Basement Finishing &
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Rogers		Basement Finishing &
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St. Francis
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