The electrical work of a finished basement in Minneapolis must meet strict safety codes to pass inspection. Minneapolis uses the Minnesota state electrical code, which is based on the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC). That means your basement wiring must include things like ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets, arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection for finished rooms, and properly spaced receptacles. The NEC is updated every three years, and Minnesota adopts those updates, so the rules you might find online from an old project may no longer apply. Following the current code is necessary to pass inspection, keep your…

Whether you're a construction manager expanding existing buildings or a homeowner wanting to add to your Minneapolis property, you need to make sure the foundation for the new structure is built on stable, level ground. Excavation of the building site accomplishes this and is the first step in the construction process.  What Is Excavation in Construction and Why Is It Important? Excavation in building construction means moving earth to prepare the land for a new building's foundation. It includes leveling the land and digging trenches for utility lines like water, gas, internet and electricity. The excavation process is essential for…

Curing concrete correctly is one of the most important steps in construction. While concrete can look solid within hours of being poured, it takes much longer to fully cure and reach its designed strength. This guide covers the correct concrete setting time so you can prevent cracks, surface damage and costly repairs from the start. What Affects the Concrete Curing Process?  Concrete hardens because of a chemical reaction between cement and water called hydration. For hydration to work, you must control moisture and temperature — otherwise, your surface won’t reach its intended strength or durability.  Moisture If water evaporates too…

You likely use your garage door every day, and you depend on it to function reliably and safely whenever you go out or come home. A door that isn’t opening or closing properly can be an inconvenience to your daily routine, and it can also be a potential danger to you and your family if something goes wrong. That’s why it’s important to proactively address any functional issues with your garage door as soon as possible. If your garage door isn’t working properly, aligning your garage door sensors may be the solution. Even a slight impact can knock the sensors…

Concrete is one of the most durable building materials available, but like anything exposed to the elements, it doesn’t last forever — especially with the climate in Minneapolis. Understanding how long concrete can last and what you can do to keep it in good shape for as long as possible is highly beneficial. What Is the Typical Lifespan of Concrete in Minneapolis? If the concrete is properly mixed, installed and maintained, it can typically last several decades in Minneapolis.  The weather plays a significant role in concrete longevity. This region experiences a humid continental climate, which means it has four…