Opening up walls, supporting structures, reconfiguring layouts — with the engineering backup to do it safely.
We know the difference between a wall that's just blocking the view (non-load-bearing) and a wall that's holding up the house (load-bearing). Before anything comes down, we get it engineered. Then we install the beam, posts, and footings exactly to spec. This work gets inspected by the city, every time.
A wall that's just partitioning space (no load on top) can come out without engineering — but we still need to know for sure. We assess, remove carefully, patch the floor and ceiling, and finish drywall. This work usually doesn't need a permit.
A wall that's carrying floor or roof load? That needs an engineered beam. We work with a structural engineer, get the beam design, install it correctly, support it with properly-sized posts and footings, and get city inspection. This is where structural engineering matters.
From the engineer's design, we fabricate (if needed) and install the beam — usually steel or LVL wood. Posts sit on proper footings (usually concrete). Everything is braced, checked, and signed off by inspectors.
Posts sit on footings that go deep enough to avoid frost heave (important in Minnesota). We dig, install rebar, pour concrete, and check everything before we hand off.
You're thinking of removing a wall and don't know if it's load-bearing. You want to widen a doorway. You're opening up a kitchen but aren't sure about the structure.
We can look at it, tell you what we see, and if it's load-bearing, we'll bring in the engineer.
If it's load-bearing, we work with a structural engineer who knows Minneapolis building code, snow load, frost depth, and all the details.
The engineer designs it; we build it. You get professional design AND professional installation.
Minnesota winters mean beams need to handle the weight of snow on the roof. Our engineers size beams accordingly.
Footings go below frost line (42+ inches in Minneapolis) so freeze/thaw doesn't move Critical Components.
Structural work always needs a permit and inspection in Minneapolis. We handle all of that.
We know Minneapolis building code. Our engineers know it too. No shortcuts, no surprises.
Client Reviews
"The crew was great — communicated well, very accommodating, got our project done in a single day. The results look great and they explained their process and answered every question I had along the way."
"They did a fantastic job. Communication was excellent from bidding to completion. The folks on site were professional, hard working, and had great attitudes. Picked up after themselves and worked efficiently around other trades. Highly recommended!"
"The estimating process was quick, clear communication on the plan and options, and very reasonable for the work performed. The crew performing the work was fantastic and friendly. All paperwork submitted to the city — everything handled start to finish."
Where We Work
We're local. We know the city requirements, the good suppliers, and the trades worth trusting.
Get In Touch
Drop us a note — tell us as much or as little as you'd like. We'll follow up within one business day.
Or call/text us directly: (612) 462-3360 · david.l@smalltimeGC.com