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TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC
Founded 2002 • With Angi since September 2008
Business Details
Phone Number
Address
1388 ALMOND AVE
Saint Paul, MN 55108
Description
Terra Firma Building and Remodeling is a custom remodeling company serving the Twin Cities and beyond.
We are a team of professional carpenters and construction managers known for high quality work and dedication to our clients and projects.
Terra Firma works in partnership with homeowners, designers, and architects, creating and renovating living spaces that enhance and add value to the home.
We look forward to hearing about your vision for your home and to helping you make your dream project a reality. Please contact us and we’ll get started
Verified Reviews
A few reviews for this pro...
Edward L.
04/30/2020
Julie S.
11/11/2017
Outstanding job. We got a very high quality kitchen. They were also about 10% below the other bid that we got. Marty, Mark, Greg, and their staff were professional, communicated very well, and did outstanding work. Only two two minor critiques. The project took longer than we ideally had hoped, 12 weeks versus 8. However, they gave us the 12 week schedule upfront and met it. Also, at one point, we were trying to cut back on costs, and they suggested using an alternative cabinet maker than they had originally recommended, who would charge a little less, which we did. We have a couple minor issues with the cabinets (minor cosmetic things that only the owner would notice). With the higher cost maker, we may have avoided the issues, but that was out choice. Great customer service. They contacted us a few times after completion to see if anything need to be adjusted, and they sent the painter back after 6 months to do some touch ups at no cost. He touched up minor dings that we did.
Description of Work
Complete kitchen and 1/4 bath remodel, including opening up a wall, moving another all, and moving a window - everything down to the studs.
Category
remodeling, replacement windows, home remodeling
Julie S.
11/11/2017
Great! Mark, Greg, and staff were great to work with, extremely professional. The quality of their framing and trim work was excellent. There attention to detail and accuracy does lead to a slightly longer process. They won't measure for the cabinets, which were custom built, until the framing is done, and won't measure for counter tops until the cabinets are in. It is worth it. When you're spending $100,000 on a kitchen, you want it done right.
Description of Work
Complete remodel of kitchen and powder room - down to the studs, moved a window, opened up a wall, and moved part of another wall.
Category
home remodeling
laura D.
08/25/2017
Terra Firma is working on a renovation of our neighbors' house and in contrast to having been told that they are respectful of adjacent properties, this is how my garden fence now looks with damage to the fence itself and destruction of the vines that used to supply privacy. I wouldn't consider this being respectful of my property.
Description of Work
Renovations to adjacent property
Category
home remodeling
Nate K.
04/15/2015
We worked with an architect and Terra Firma was a recommendation. They were helpful from the beginning and we couldn't be happier about the estimate, write-ups, timing estimation, work done, how they dealt with subs, guaranteeing of work afterwards, etc. I could go on and on, but they are craftsman and care deeply about the work being done and giving you the best. We love doing work ourselves, but this was far and above our capacity for time and expertise. It was our first work with a general contractor and we were especially happy. It was nice to have a dedicated lead carpenter / project manager to entrust with our home while we were way. They worked with us and communicated to drive the project completion, but also to our liking. The only knock would be that to make sure you are clear if you are working with an architect of any additional things you might want to include in a proposal with Terra Firma to make sure it isn't glossed over. We managed most of our project, but it is easy to look at the nice drawings and write-up from the architect, even when we made changes post drawings. A few things that happened in conversations didn't get recorded, but they were resolved. We will work with them again.
Description of Work
Small three-floor addition, tear-down of load-bearing wall and beam replacement, kitchen remodel, second floor bedroom addition and dormer, windows, roof, etc.
Category
remodeling, replacement windows, home builders, home remodeling
Edward L.
08/13/2014
Very well. Marty Ruddy, the owner, treats customers and staff with respect and trust. It shows in the quality of the finished product and the steps to achieve it. Each project had a dedicated lead who communicated very well with us about progress. Predictable inconveniences, when the water might be off or when to expect noise, etc., were planned ahead of time. The leads were experienced in one of the trades so they brought expertise and organizational ability. The unforeseen was handled immediately and thoroughly. Several years later, a call is quickly returned. Wear and tear issues are addressed at reasonable cost.
Description of Work
Terra Firma did two substantial renovations, a bath, closet, & related areas, and then finished an attic.
Category
remodeling, home remodeling
James H.
07/14/2014
Clean, neat, quick, and great communicators. When demolition revealed new issues, they let us know and gave us plans to address the issues that we could choose from. Excellent work, standing up well to two dogs and multiple guests.
Description of Work
Added dormers and built-in beds to our third floor, replaced faulty insulation and ventilation.
Category
remodeling
Erika K.
02/27/2014
As close to perfect as is possible. The only delays/problems were with subcontractors that we insisted on using. Not folks that Terra Firma normally works with. They are very good communicators and we feel felt and still feel a high level of trust in them. The project was very expensive but we did not feel taken advantage of. Instead, we felt that we got full value out of the relationship.
Description of Work
Small but complicated addition to 1920's bungalow (mudroom, exercise room, bedroom and bathroom with custom cabinetry).
Category
remodeling, home builders
Steve E.
01/06/2014
Rich and Martha B.
04/30/2013
ANDREW M.
04/23/2013
We had excellent experiences both times. They were very professional, transparent, and were great at communicating about where they were, issues encountered, and all other areas. I liked how Marty would work with us on the bid with the architect to make adjustments to simplify the project and allow us to make our budget. They have a open book policy so we know exactly how much was spent. We didn't solicit other bids as we trusted them. When we had issues after the project, they were extremely prompt in fixing them for no additional cost. The additions look like they are original on the outside. I would highly recommend them for any project.
Description of Work
We have used Terra Firma twice. The first time was for a major kitchen expansion and complete remodel. The second time was for a major addition of a bedroom, bathroom, porch, and basement remodel. Both of these were on an old house.
Category
remodeling, home remodeling
James P.
03/10/2013
We enjoyed working with Terra Firma (Marty, Adam, Mark), and were *very* happy with their work. Terra Firma helped us get the project going, including advice on hiring an architect; worked creatively to find solutions to design issues; and explained all of our choices to us well. The construction process was actually pleasant. Adam was always available to explain what was happening, and the disruption to our normal lives was never more than the minimum that goes with a project of this sort. And, of course, the final product has been wonderful. The construction is first-rate . . . . Our only regret is that the house almost looks shoddy compared to our garage!
Description of Work
Terra Firma replaced our 90-year-old, small 1-car garage with a 1.5-car, 2-story garage, with the loft space designed as a well-lit and open sewing room.
Category
home builders
DAVID & LORENE L.
06/05/2012
We had absolutely no complaints about Terra Firma. This company and its owner, Marty Ruddy, are a class act.
Description of Work
A subcontractor named Dan Bois did the ceramic tile work around our kitchen counters and a surround for the small sink in the powder room. His work was satisfactory in every way--he's a very skilled craftsman and a personable guy.
Category
ceramic tile, home remodeling
ELIZABETH L.
12/18/2011
Working with Terra Firma has been absolutely delightful. Marty (owner) is extremely responsive, straightforward and trustworthy. No guessing necessary. My project spanned many months and although it was not completed by the time initially planned/hoped, they made sure my house was as functional as possible throughout (part of the delays were associated with my own delay in decision-making). They were patient and flexible as the project "evolved", all while staying within budget. Marty found ways to save me money without compromising quality in any way. The quality of work was impeccable - both that done by Terra Firma and the subcontractors they used. They were committed to ensuring things were done right. In a large project there are always things that don't go quite as planned, and Terra Firma corrected things promptly and completely. I was particularly impressed when the project lead (Dave) picked up on a coloring blunder on my hardwood floor and got it corrected right away (which involved re-sanding and re-finishing the whole floor). There were some little things that took longer than I would have liked, but nothing substantial, and I'd rather that than any compromise in quality. I would hire Terra Firma again in a heartbeat if I had it to do over again.
Description of Work
Kitchen addition and complete remodel. Terra Firma arranged all subcontractors including plumbing, electrical, tile-laying, cabinetry, etc. They worked with my architect seamlessly from beginning to end.
Category
home remodeling
Brian R.
08/29/2011
Went well overall, just too high of a bid.
Description of Work
Solicited bids from several contractors to do an addition and kitchen remodel. Marty was great to work with, very professional, and came across very honest and straightforward. We have also heard good things about Terra Firma from others. We really like their open book policy. They were ultimately too expensive for our budget. Terra Firma's bid was the most expensive of all the bids we received. We got the impression that they were top quality, but the quality came at a premium price.
Category
remodeling, home remodeling
Dan W.
04/26/2011
From the beginning our project manager, Tim, gave us daily or more frequent updates on what was going to be going on, who was going to be in our house and how long he expected each task to take. Clean up and dust control was done diligently (there is still going to be dust). TF was responsive to quality of work issues with subcontractors and either had them return or fixed the issue without question. Attention to detail and matching our existing wood trim, windows, rooms was spot on. We felt like partners, rather than just the homeowners. We had a great experience thanks to Terra Firma!
Description of Work
1. Opened upper wall between kitchen and dining room and replaced original built-ins in dining room with windows and french door. 2. Reframed for new window sizes in our den and insulated with closed cell spray foam insulation.
Category
remodeling, replacement windows
DOUG C.
02/03/2011
An ice dam caused heavy damage to our home's primary bathroom. Since we had to do extensive repairs, we decided to gut the room and do a full redesign as well. We interviewed several contractors before meeting Marty, who finally got us started on the right path by referring us to an excellent interior designer. We interviewed a few more highly recommended remodeling companies before settling on Terra Firma - not only because of their competitive quote but also their extremely happy references. The entire team demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and a sincere pride in their work throughout the project. When we ran into difficulty with the insurance company, Marty stepped in and provided support and as much detail as needed to work through that process. When we ran into significant unforeseen complications, Terra Firma went the extra mile to make everything right - upholding their high standard of quality, performing substantial additional work at no additional expense to us. Terra Firma had their eye on the details (from the fixtures we had chosen to the quality of the tile) to steer us in the right direction throughout the process. The result is a BEAUTIFUL modern-but-vintage-style bathroom that fits the quality of our old craftsman home. From a very hard-to-please customer: we highly recommend Terra Firma.
Description of Work
Full bathroom renovation for familie's primary bathroom on the main floor. Included removing finishes down to studs and ceiling structure, recessing sub floor for flush transition, in-floor heat, new custom-built linen cabinet, vanity and mirror. Included extensive tile work.
Category
custom cabinets, ceramic tile, replacement windows, home remodeling
Steven B.
09/29/2010
Marty was helpfull in the initial planning stages. He and his crew were punctual and professional at all times. The work site was cleaned at the end of the day. A schedule was provided and followed. Change requests were discussed with alternatives presented. Highly professional at all times. At the end we have a beautiful kitchen and bathroom that receive rave reviews.
Description of Work
Remodel Kitchen and Bathroom
Category
remodeling, home remodeling
DAVID & LORENE L.
08/26/2010
In a word, excellent! This small contracting company is a class act. Owner Marty Ruddy really knows his business. Marty, job foreman Nate Mitchell and other TF employees were courteous, conscientious, friendly, highly skilled and anxious to do the job right. All subcontractors were first-rate. If we had concerns, they were addressed immediately, and any changes were made with a minimum of hassle for labor+materials. All work came in at or below estimates, and each statement was presented in minute detail, with all receipts and job tickets attached. We have absolutely no complaints.
Description of Work
Remodel/expansion of kitchen including installation of new flooring, cabinets, countertops, lighting, new period wood trim to match existing, insulation, in-floor and wall-mount heating, plus painting and venting of microwave. Also refurbished adjoining 1/2 bath to match kitchen.
Category
home remodeling
Tom H.
08/12/2010
Terra Firma was very patient, thoughtful and helpful in planning our big project. We were highly impressed with the professionalism of all Terra Firma employees and the courtesy of the subcontractors, and of course the quality of work completed. The carpenters were respectful as well as intelligent and easy to talk to and learn from. Even though we did not yet live in the home when the work was being done, our new house was treated with the utmost respect. The work took a a couple of weeks longer than expected to complete, but in the end we were able to move in to our new house on time. The delays had to do with the complexity of scheduling the floor refinishing. We were very impressed with the quality of work and love our new home. 6 months later, the house settled and the refrigerator cabinet moved forward. Terra Firma responded within 2 days and had it adjusted. We feel like we have a commitment for life for the work that was done. We have strongly recommended Terra Firma to many of our friends. One downside (or upside?) to mention is that they focus on quality and not on saving money with the selection of subcontractors and materials. They were flexible with our many attempts to save money on this large project, however.
Description of Work
Gut and renovation of kitchen and bathroom. Opening wall between kitchen and dining room. Moving walls between bathroom and bedroom. Floor refinishing (subcontractor). New window in bathroom. Kitchen cabinets, plumbing and electric through subcontractors. Staining of new/replaced woodwork via subcontractors. In floor heating system and new boiler (subcontractors).
Category
remodeling, replacement windows, home remodeling
Joan P.
08/05/2010
Thomas C.
07/13/2010
We were extremely pleased with the quality of work, and they were good communicators. They were also pleasant to have around, and they cleaned up their mess. They did not play loud music. They were very task oriented, and we had recommended them to our daughter, who had used them.
Description of Work
We added on two bathrooms, one on the main floor and one upstairs, and they framed them in.
Category
home remodeling
Kurt R.
05/06/2009
Meg I.
09/09/2008
They did a great job. He is super responsible and punctual. He came in pretty close to the bid. He was very realistic with his bids and with the cost. The quality of work met our expectations, and he was very detail oriented.
Description of Work
They remodeled our kitchen, put in two new bathrooms, remodeled a third bathroom, replaced all of the windows in our house, and winterized a three season porch. They completely gutted and remodeled our house.
Category
remodeling, replacement windows, home remodeling
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Service Categories
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General Information
Free Estimates
Yes
Eco-Friendly Accreditations
Yes
Payment Options
Check
Senior Discount
NO
Warranties
Yes
Services Offered
Terra Firma is a trusted name in custom remodeling due to excellent craftsmanship, a network of trusted and skilled subcontractors, clear communication, and high ethical standards.
Services Not Offered
Ask for details
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers about TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC
How is TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC overall rated?
TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC is currently rated 4.9 overall out of 5.
What payment options does TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC provide
TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC accepts the following forms of payment: Check
Does TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC offer free estimates?
Yes, TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC offers free project estimates.
Does TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC offer eco-friendly accreditations?
Yes, TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC offers eco-friendly accreditations.
Does TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC offer a senior discount?
No, TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC does not offer a senior discount.
Are warranties offered by TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC?
Yes, TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC offers warranties.
What services does TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC offer?
TERRA FIRMA BUILDING & REMODELING LLC offers the following services: Terra Firma is a trusted name in custom remodeling due to excellent craftsmanship, a network of trusted and skilled subcontractors, clear communication, and high ethical standards.