GENERAL FAQs
|
What type of construction does Terrasol do?
We dismantle century old log homes & timber frame barns and convert them into new homes. We also do high-end remodels. On occasion we do a combination of all 3 types of construction.
|
Do you work with architects if I already have my home designed?
We very much like to work with architects and have 20 years of references if you'd like to confirm our success in doing such work.
|
How far do you travel?
We will work in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. If the project is outside the midwest however, we ask that you work with an architect local to you. Those projects outside the midwest we prefer limiting our scope of work to weather-tite shells. The remainder of the scope would need to be completed by a local contractor.
|
Do you charge for a site visit?
In most cases, yes. Unless the timeframe allows a visit at our convenience.
|
Tell me more about your pricing, how does it all compare?
We are a "for profit" company; we're not in the business of getting the lowest bid. We have 20 years of data that assures our customers are getting the best job possible without sacrificing our business. Our pricing assures not just the best job, but also reassures our customers that we will be around in 5 years should they need maintenance and in 10 or 15 years should our customers want us to design and build them another project.
|
Does Terrasol charge for estimates? If so, how much and why?
Yes we do charge for estimates, the amount is based on the amount of work estimated. The estimates are itemized listing every item that will go into the construction of your project. This gives our home-owners optimal freedom in prioritizing items based on price. This type of estimate has proven over the past 20 years to be one of the most useful tools for both home-owner and home-builder.
|
Is there any other form of media where I can view your projects?
We've had our projects on HGTV as well as in publications including "Old Barns-New Homes" & "Retreats to Retirement". We are also members of the Minnesota River Builders Association, Friends of Minnesota Barns just to name a few.
|
Do you allow homeowners the option to complete a portion of the work required to do a job?
Absolutely, our itemized estimates detail both the specifications & pricing of those items required to complete a job. The itemization gives you, the homeowner, both the specifications and the pricing of all the items which allows you the ability to make a fair & accurate decision about the work you might want to do. Before doing a portion of the work or general part of the job, we simply ask that you fully understand what that means and how it will affect everyone involved.
|
TIMBER FRAMES
|
What are the advantages of using a Timber Frame vs. a traditional 2x6 frame?
There are several, but the major advantages include the ability to span great distances and create large open rooms. You also create a nostalgic feeling with exposed timbers than cannot be duplicated.
|
What are the advantages of using a salvaged timber frame?
The biggest is beauty, we're creating something that has history, character and is one-of-a-kind. You are also utilizing a resource that will go unused and making a small contribution into saving the environment. A traditional home can be built for approximately $125 square foot and our turn-key timber frames start at $175 a square foot. On average a newly cut timber frame home starts at $300 square foot.
|
Once I've decided on using a historic timber frame, what is the next step?
I'd suggest contacting us using the contact page to receive a introduction package which will include a very detailed outline of the process.
|
LOG HOMES
|
What type of log cabins do you build?
We have experience in building new log cabins, but our passion is uncovering 150 year old hand hewn cabins, restoring & then re-assembling them.
|
If you use 150 year logs for the walls, what kind of materials do you use for the rest of the Cabin?
We try to use 100% salvaged material to give it an authentic look & limit the resources a person needs to build a traditional home.
|
What is required to get a vintage log cabin ready for assembly?
1)Locate a vintage cabin, generally acquired from someone who wants to remove one from their property 2)Map every log with metal tags, done on-site 3)Dismantle cabin log by log and bring them to our storage facility where any damaged logs are restored and partially replaced when necessary 4)Logs are pressure-washed and then Penetreated to protect them from bugs, moisture and any future deterioration 5)Cabin is reassembled according to the design specified and is now ready for dismantle and delivery.
|
