New Construction (stick built)

          Home ] [ New Construction (stick built) ] Restorations & Renovations ] Additions ] Package Erections ] Assorted Interior Shots ] FAQ's ] Other Services & Specialties ] Find Us, Links & Testimonials ]

     For those who aren't familiar with the term, "stick built" refers to a structure built on site with framing lumber (2x6, 2x12, etc) and sheathing (i.e. plywood).  Typically today, the structure is "platform framed", meaning the subfloor is built on the foundation, the walls on the subfloor, the next floor or roof above that and so on (as compared to "balloon framed")

     There are pros and cons to the method as with any.  Since it is built on site one piece at a time there is unparalleled strength from continuity.  The sill plate, rim joist and wall is all knitted together with staggered sheathing.  Since the material in assembled on the job site, less access and staging area is required when compared to other types of construction, such as panelized or (god forbid) modular, resulting in a more environmentally friendly operation.

     The only downside is that construction takes place in any kind of weather, as compared to panelized structure that is partially prefabricated in a controlled environment.  Due to our harsh winters we urge people to "shell" a structure during the nice season, and leave the interior finish as "winter work".  There are incentives for patience.                    

Click for Saranac Lake, New York Forecast

 
view wind chill chart
view heat index chart
 
         
                               To the left is a small "camp". Although it is a stick built structure, exposed timber  
  framing members like 3x6 rafters and 6x8 joists make it appear cozy and rugged.
  Despite the fact they desired a large camp, they were only able to replace the
  existing footprint of the old camp under APA easement rules.
 
 
 
 
       At right is a small, budget conscious stick-built structure. With a shed dormer on one side and a gable dormer on the other it gives a warm spacious feeling inside. It also features a cathedral ceiling with a timber-framed loft.                     

 

 

   Even a "saltbox" style two stall garage can blend in with the surroundings. Note the authentic "brainstorm" siding which features a natural exposed edge still covered with bark. Although originally used because it was easier to mill, now it is seen as stylish. It also goes by the name "Adirondack" or "waney-edge" siding. The garage also features "Garaga" garage doors with triple weather-stripping and an R-value over 16.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Here is a garage with a full service camp above. It features a two story, screened in cedar porch framed with 26' Douglas Fir 8x8 columns. Noteworthy features include and eyebrow dormer which is reminiscent of days gone by. Also note how it is shrouded by trees which makes it nearly invisible from the shoreline (where the photo was snapped).
 
 
 
 
 
The sole purpose of this 3-1/2 stall garage is to store a road rake and a camp vehicle for a large private estate. Unlike the garage above, it is not heated or insulated. Wood and earth tones are abundant, and thankfully vinyl siding is rarely seen.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Everyone needs a small storage shed for some purpose. The unfinished shed at the left houses the camp generator and firewood. The one next to it is nestled into a popular shoreline, and it's primary purpose is to store canoes. Considered accessory buildings, allowable sizes vary by township.
 
 
 
 
 
 
From start to finish:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yet another project from winter to final completion: