How Much Does it Cost to Build an ADU?
Learn what it costs to build a garage apartment ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) in Minneapolis or St. Paul, and what drives those costs.
St. Paul ADU
A remodel is underway. Take a look inside.
Follow along as we build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in St. Paul, MN.
Current Step
Demo & Excavation
Demo & Excavation
It's demo day! The old garage will be torn down, exposing the concrete parking pad which will also be removed.
The old garage has been removed. Now it's time to remove the concrete.
Preparing For Construction
Before starting construction, there are a few items to address. We called gopher state mark utilities before excavation. The phone and cable lines that stretched over the pre-existing garage were moved. Lastly, we sent letters to all the neighbors, letting them know we would be working on a project in the neighborhood.
The concrete is pulled up in pieces and disposed of.
Goodbye, old driveway!
Excavating For The Foundation, Frost Footings, & Plumbing
After demolition, the excavation begins. The earth will be removed to make room for frost footings and a foundation for the new garage and ADU. Frost footings are required for Minnesota’s climate. The footings guard against settling and slippage that can cause structural damage. Frost footings also prevent posts and beams from directly contacting the earth. Going below the frost line helps prevent soil movement due to frost called frost heave. We’ll also dig a trench from the main home to connect plumbing from the house to the new Garage/ADU.v
The finished trench is ready for the frost footings and foundation.
Want to learn more about
this type of project?
We’re here to help! Check out our planning resources below, or reach out to us here.
Creative Ways to Make Space: Accessory Dwelling Units
Interested in an apartment above your garage, a backyard studio, or a workshop detached from your house? ADUs are fully functional living spaces that can have many uses.
Think you can’t afford that remodel? (There are more options than you think.)
So you’d love to upgrade your kitchen or add a shed dormer with a primary suite, but you’re not sure how to pay for it? Learn about three ways to finance your remodel.
