Different Types of Residential Construction and Remodeling
Residential construction and remodeling projects differ from one another in many ways. They require different types of professionals, such as architects and plumbers, to manage specific technical aspects.
Single-family homes are the most common type of residential construction. However, this category also includes condos and multi-family houses. These residences are usually attached to other buildings and have lounge areas, gyms, and pools.
Wood-frame
Wood framing is the primary construction method used in new homes. It allows contractors like Quarry View Building Group to build a house quickly with a few hand tools. It also enables builders to make changes to a home during the construction process. Wood-frame buildings are not as strong as masonry walls, but they are a great choice for homeowners looking for a comfortable home with easy design options.
Wood frame construction uses a framework of wooden beams to support walls, floors and roofs. The frame consists of studs, vertical components within the walls; joists, wooden beams that hold the floor; and rafters, which are slanted wooden beams that form the roof. The frame is sheathed with sheets, which can be plywood or oriented strand board.
The wood used in wood-frame buildings is usually dimensional lumber that is graded to meet minimum strength requirements. This lumber must be free of knots, notches and other natural residential construction and remodeling growth characteristics that reduce the strength of the member. It should be visually graded and tested to determine its structural performance.
One downside of wood-frame construction is its vulnerability to termites and moisture exposure. Both can damage a structure’s durability and cause costly repairs. The good news is that new protective treatments for lumber can prevent these issues. However, wood-framed structures still require periodic inspection for termites and moisture.
Masonry
Masonry uses brick, stone, and concrete blocks to construct walls and facades. It is an ancient technique that offers a number of benefits for homeowners and businesses.
Masonry is very durable, improving the safety of a building in case of fire or natural disasters. It also has high thermal mass, keeping buildings insulated and regulating temperatures. It also provides sound insulation, reducing noise from outside or between rooms in a building.
The type of masonry used can significantly impact cost. Brick masonry, for example, is more affordable than stone masonry. The size and design of a masonry project is another factor that influences the price. For example, a large and complex design will require more labor to construct than a smaller and simpler one.
When constructing new structures, it is important to explore different design and material alternatives. These options can improve the efficiency of a building, lowering costs while achieving the desired results. Some innovations in installation techniques can also lower costs by reducing the time required to complete construction. These savings may offset the cost of specialized materials and cutting-edge technologies that might be necessary to achieve a specific project goal. By staying abreast of these innovations, a contractor can make smart choices that will benefit the client and the overall project budget.
Steel
Steel is an excellent option for residential construction because it’s eco-friendly and sustainable. It can also withstand extreme weather conditions, seismic activity, and other natural disasters much better than organic materials like wood. Besides, it’s highly resistant to mold and rot and requires less maintenance. Moreover, it is fire-resistant and can save lives in case of emergency situations.
Typically, buildings used for residential purposes are smaller than commercial ones and are generally no more than four floors in height. For these projects, steel is the best framing material because it can be adapted to accommodate various layouts and designs. It’s also easy to install electrical wiring and plumbing pipes. Additionally, it’s more cost-effective and durable compared to other materials, such as wood and concrete.
In addition to being cost-effective and durable, steel is non-combustible, which helps it resist the effects of fire more effectively than other building materials. Additionally, it can be easily fabricated on-site, which speeds up the construction process and reduces costs.
Steel residential construction is a good option for projects in urban areas because it allows for higher-rise buildings with limited land availability. It also enables designers to incorporate more floor space by using light steel infill and separating walls. This system also allows for a flexible layout and maximises the use of ground floor parking spaces.
Design-build
The design-build method provides homeowners with a single point of contact for the entire project, from pre-construction estimates, assessments and pre-design services to architecture, schematics, engineering, contracting and construction. This allows for a more cohesive and efficient process. When a homeowner has a vision for their home remodel, they can explain it to one person, and that same individual will be responsible for making sure the vision is implemented. In addition, the same person will be accountable for delivering on the timeline and budget throughout the entire project.
During the design phase, your hotel renovation contractors designer and builder will work together to establish the overall project vision. This helps ensure the final plans meet your functional requirements and style preferences. It also helps identify potential cost-saving measures and helps you stay within your renovation budget.
Another benefit of the design-build approach is that it allows for a more accurate reading of the project costs. During the design phase, your team will review and confirm the architect’s proposed details with your builder in real-time. This prevents miscommunication and costly mistakes.
If you’re considering a design-build firm for your remodeling project, it’s important to interview several candidates. Consider their communication skills, experience and history of success. Make sure they have a proven track record and a good reputation for customer satisfaction.
