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Great Lakes Carpentry Great Lakes Carpentry
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Business Details
27 Years
experience
Custom Energy-Efficient Home Building in Minocqua, WI
Great Lakes Carpentry has been pioneering energy-efficient home construction and remodeling in Northern Wisconsin since 1999. Founded by Randy Nilsson, a seasoned contractor with decades of experience, the company combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge building science to create durable, sustainable homes. Specializing in timber frame, log, and SIP (Structural Insulated Panel) construction, we adhere to rigorous third-party certifications like ENERGY STAR and GreenBuilt standards.

Our partnerships with industry leaders like Timberpeg and Pukall Log Homes ensure access to premium materials and techniques. With a focus on holistic design and performance testing, we deliver homes that achieve up to 60% energy savings while maintaining exceptional comfort and quality. Our team's expertise extends to aging-in-place modifications and Passive House principles, reflecting our commitment to innovation and client satisfaction.
Services
New Home Building Timberpeg Timber Frame Pukall Log Homes Green Construction Kitchen Remodeling Bathroom Remodeling Home Energy Audits Passive House Consulting Structural Insulated Panels Solar Panel Systems
Details
  • Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
  • We have over 20 years of experience in energy-efficient home construction.
  • Our team includes Certified Green Building Professionals and CAPS specialists.
  • We provide third-party home performance testing for guaranteed results.
  • We partner with industry leaders like Timberpeg and Pukall Log Homes.
  • Our homes achieve up to 60% energy savings through advanced building science.
Associations and certifications
  • ENERGY STAR
  • GreenBuilt Certified
  • National Association of Home Builders
  • Focus On Energy New Homes Program
  • Timberpeg Independent Representative
What people say
Quality of workmanship On time and budget Daily communication Energy savings exceeded expectations Professional and trustworthy
Update Listing
Services
New Home Building
We design and construct energy-efficient custom homes using timber frame, log, and SIP technologies. Our homes achieve up to 60% energy savings through airtight construction, super-insulation, and heat-recovery ventilation. Third-party performance testing ensures durability and comfort.
Timberpeg Timber Frame
Crafting traditional mortise-and-tenon timber frame homes with modern energy efficiency. These structures combine aesthetic appeal with advanced building science, offering durability and reduced operating costs through precision joinery and high-performance envelopes.
Pukall Log Homes
Building energy-efficient log homes using kiln-dried, locally sourced logs. Our process minimizes settling issues while maximizing thermal performance, with optional FSC-certified materials for sustainable construction and long-term durability.
Green Construction
Implementing holistic green building practices including Passive House principles, third-party certified energy audits, and high-performance materials. Our methods reduce environmental impact while enhancing indoor air quality and occupant comfort.
Home Energy Audits
Conducting comprehensive building science evaluations using blower door tests and infrared imaging. We identify energy leaks and prescribe retrofit solutions to improve efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality in existing homes.
People
Randy Nilsson
General Contractor & Founder
With over 45 years in construction, Randy founded Great Lakes Carpentry in 1999 after falling in love with Northern Wisconsin. A Certified Green Building Professional and CAPS specialist, he pioneered Wisconsin's first ENERGY STAR log home and pursues Passive House certification.
Questions
What types of homes do you specialize in?
We build timber frame, log, and SIP energy-efficient homes using sustainable materials and advanced building science techniques.
Are your homes certified for energy efficiency?
Yes, we offer ENERGY STAR, GreenBuilt Certified, and third-party performance-tested homes meeting rigorous efficiency standards.
Do you handle remodeling projects?
Yes, we specialize in kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodels with a focus on improving energy performance and functionality.
How do you ensure quality control?
We use third-party home performance testing, daily client communication, and independent evaluations before and after project completion.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Northern Wisconsin communities including Minocqua, Mercer, Bayfield, and Lac du Flambeau.
Can you help with aging-in-place modifications?
Yes, our CAPS-certified team specializes in home modifications for accessibility and safety to support independent living.