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Framing the first floor in Vienna

By Doug Francis

Fifth in the 2014 Vienna House Project Series

New Construction Custom Built Homes in Vienna VA

Framers work efficiently

Most people can’t believe how quickly a new house gets built, but often what they are seeing is work performed by the framers. These carpenters measure wood and build walls exactly as it is written on the architect’s drawings.

If you like to work from an exact plan, then you might want to change careers because these guys are measuring twice and cutting once all day long.

Good building weatherSo, now that the basement has been done and the sub-floor installed over those joists, upward goes this house. This can be done in almost any weather, but as you can see the weather cooperated.

Good weather has helped

A crane will be on site during much of the early construction as it allows the framers to get the supplies where they need them. For example, the sub-floor plywood sheets are engineered to carry extreme loads and and be virtually weather proof… yes, they will be in place forever. These, however, weigh a ton and that crane can efficiently move anything into place.

LVL lumber is used in Vienna VA house

These LVL’s can be cut to size

The crane will move the steel i-beams and the LVL’s (laminated veneer lumber) which carry extreme loads like the i-beams. They are those yellow boards in the photos to the right, and they can be cut to size onsite.

One area where the crane moved an i-beam was in the garage ~ and you can see more photos on the Google+ photo page.

Crane lift i-beam on custom home constructionAt this point this home is moving along quickly. Coming up soon will be the roof and then the real work begins inside. That is the part that seems to take forever, but, it is really the fun part where the homeowners will add their personal touch. Things like where light switches should be, adding additional recessed lights, additional outlets, or requesting something be moved to a less conspicuous spot. Many, many decisions to make!

Since this is a custom built homes in Vienna, remember that not every builder will be doing the same level of quality. When I am looking at the value of one builder’s product over another, it is often easy to recognize true quality workmanship or craftsmanship over a production builder’s acceptable level of quality.

Watch for the next update soon, cheers!


See More Photos!

Are you interested in seeing more photos on Google? As this custom house project continues I am updating a Google+ page with a bunch of photos so take a look to see where everything started and where the project is today.

Filed Under: Blog, House Project 2014 Tagged With: Custom Built Homes, Vienna

About Doug Francis

A seasoned Realtor specializing in unique and new homes around Vienna, Virginia, Doug has seen consumer behavior, negotiations and communication styles change. At his original brokerage, he was the first agent to add an email address. Imagine! Outside real estate, he plays tennis, is a Washington Capitals fan, spends time with Skipper (his dog), and enjoys the restaurant scene in the DCA. He's a Boston University graduate who feels morning coffee is non-negotiable.

Vienna real estate agent Doug Francis

When we bought our house in Vienna, we were thinking about raising the kids, building an addition, and knowing the neighbors. Today, home buyers are attracted to Vienna because of the sense of community, walkability, and small town lifestyle.

So, what’s next after your 25 years? It’s a conversation many of my clients are having with me as they plan to move to the beach, travel, or get closer to grandkids. Helping them see their future, sell their current home, and move ahead with their updated plan has been an interesting new chapter.

My background: I am an active licensed agent in Virginia, have negotiated hundreds of sales contracts, work at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty in McLean, and still sell homes in all price ranges. I donate to the Town of Vienna tree replacement fund, participate in a neighborhood citizens association, and try my best to stay in shape.

Let’s discuss your moving plans: Email doug@dougfrancis.com or call me at (703) 304-6827 .  Cheers!

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About Doug Francis

I am a Realtor with TTR Sotheby's International Realty® just outside Washington D.C. in Northern Virginia. I'm licensed in Virginia with a focus on Vienna, VA real estate since 1991.

That deep knowledge is valuable, especially in today's fast-paced market where advice is critical. Although many of my clients are personally referred, I am available to help you too and am accepting new clients right now.

Feel free to contact me at 703-304-6827 or email me at doug@dougfrancis.com anytime!

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TTR Sotheby's International Realty
6723 Whittier Avenue McLean, VA 22101

Office: 703-319-3344
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