Standard Building Method
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Superior Building Method
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Benefit, Advantage or Result
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Concrete work such as basement
slabs, driveways, sidewalks, etc
receive sand as a base.
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Compacted gravel is used as the
base for all concrete flat work.
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The compacted gravel is stronger
and gives the concrete a solid
base. Resulting is less movement
and less cracks.
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Load bearing basement walls are
placed on the basement slab
with no additional footings
under the slab.
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All basement bearing walls
receive a footing underneath
the area where the wall will sit.
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The footings gives the center of
the floor proper support. This
results in less interior
movement, which means less
drywall stress cracks.
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Conventional floor joist are
installed with no bridging.
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Bridging is used on all
conventional floor joists spans
over 10'.
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The bridging stiffens the floor
resulting in less bounce or floor
joist deflection.
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Floor rim boards for decks and
porches are bolted directly to
the siding.
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Siding is removed, flashing is
installed and a solid wood to
wood connection is made.
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Bolting to the siding allows for
movement. Resulting in an out
of level, buckling & unsightly
floor.
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Waferboard or OSB floor
sheathing & roof sheathing is
used.
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Plywood is used for all floor and
roof sheathing applications.
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Although approved for strength,
waferboard swells, and warps when
rained on during construction.
Resulting in a squeaky, uneven, or
swollen roof and floor. Plywood is
less effected by moisture.
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Square roof vents are used.
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Continuous ridge vent is
installed.
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The more ventilation the longer the
life of the roof shingles. The
continuous ridge vent ensures
adequate ventilation.
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Gable fascia boards are held up
by roof sheathing only.
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Gable end fascia is built in a
ladder type style and nailed to
the gable wall and the roof.
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The ladder style places a solid board
against the house, blocks, then a
solid fascia board. This results in a
straighter fascia board and is
attached to the gable wall as well as
the roof.
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Lower quality windows, siding,
shingles, fixtures, etc.. are used.
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High end products are used.
Products with longer warranties
and a better reputation for
quality & durability.
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This results in less minor repairs
and maintenance.
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