We can build it quicker, and for le$$. |
Structures, beams, architectural
framing, floor decking,
truss work.
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Carpentry A. to Z.
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We are "Ready to Work for You". Better alternatives . Know-How at a better Price. Retail Store, Warehouse Space, New Addition. We Know the local building codes. We Know the local building inspectors. We Know the problems with commercial and industrial properties. We Know the structural and architectural solutions. |
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Old fashioned know-How combined with the latest technology. |
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Clear information from experts of the trade.
What separates Big-Beam from stock 24F glulam is that the tension and compression lams (top and bottom edges of the beam) are comprised of LVL. This combination of materials (referred to as a "layup") has been engineered to deliver high structural values.
Most of the bending stress on a horizontal timber takes place on the top and bottom edge of the member. The value of the dry, pine laminate stock used in the core is that it makes the beam lighter, more resistant to the elements and easier to work with than solid LVL, PSL or solid timbers. Since LVL has greater design values than pine laminations, adding the LVL lams increases the overall strength of the beam where the greatest stress occurs.
Also, because Big-Beam is made from kiln-dried lumber and LVL, it does not twist, split or warp. We are Carpentry and Building contractors for any property. Construction - your design or ours. Framing contractors and carpentry for the blue prints you have or the prints we can make for you. New additions framed and expert "square" carpenters and installing the finest finish carpentry for the cost., Exterior and interior trim, trim-work of all types for: cabinets, special moldings, doors and windows. We Build Custom to the Budget! We also do dog-on good Decks and Deck Maintenance. Using Pressure treated choice woods or composite materials for: benches, railings, solid framing, ramps, and curved stairs. We do it all starting with the footings beams & joists to the roofing. Visit some of our pages (more about Us).
Facility Rescue Services - Urgent Response Services for every facility.
Basement Egress Doors.
Commercial Property Maintenance by The Able Group.
Exterior Decks and Benches for your Garden by The Able Group Inc.
Some notes on "Your Deck" - Ledger, Posts, Beams, and Joists, Railings and Pressure Washing.
The connection between the deck and the house is very critical. Check that flashing is in good condition. Use a probe to inspect for water damage on the
ledger. Check for fungi, blue or black stains, and little piles of sawdust indicating termites or carpenter ants. Tighten all fasteners.
Check the posts very carefully at the ground line and at the top. Use a probe to inspect for rot by sticking it into various parts of the post and comparing the ease of
penetration. Inspect and secure the post's connection with the foundation.
Check Decking from Below if Possible
If you can go under your deck, put on old clothes, and bring a flashlight and a screwdriver with you. Poke the undersides of decking boards,
all around the ledger, posts, stringers, and treads, and in any other joints and crevices. Some loose decking might only need retightening of the fasteners. Tighten the
ones you can and mark the ones that need to be replaced. If the decking is damaged, remove it and install new boards.
Check Railings
Railings, and especially stair rails, are very important
since they have to withstand extra strain. Inspect posts for damage and make sure all fasteners are secure and tight. Look at the ends of all rails for water damage.
Replace damaged balusters. Decking boards split at the ends will usually continue to separate along their length. You can try to cut the boards flush with the joists
and seal the cut ends, but it would probably be better to replace split boards with new ones. For internal cracks, sand the surface and apply several coats of
sealer.
Pressure Washing
Any dirt, leaves, or other natural debris that get caught between the decking or in other crevices can hold moisture for weeks.
That can easily cause rot but can easily be prevented by cleaning regularly. One way to clean out crevices is by pressure-washing.
It might be hard to realize when is a good time to clean or refinish your deck, so, to be on top of it you can make a calendar. Little things can have big results. Cleaning gives a drab deck a fresh new look and you'll be surprised how much bigger a clean deck looks. You should sweep the surface once a week and if the weather requires it. Once a month you should scrub the deck with warm water and a mild detergent. If simple washing doesn't get it clean enough, or if you want to make the color of the deck lighter, buy a deck cleaning product. If the wood is dirty and weathered, clean it with a solution of oxalic acid and water. Scrub an area with a stiff natural-bristle brush, rinse, allow it to dry, and repeat if needed. Oxalic acid is extremely caustic so wear protective clothing. If you want to clear away all dirt, debris stuck in joints, or loose paint all at once, the best way is to rent a power washer with 1200 psi pressure. Clean the deck with a fan-tip nozzle so you won't damage the surface. If you use a high-pressure power washer improperly, it can splinter and gouge the surface of lumber. Pressure-treated lumber rated for ground contact should resist insect infestation, but redwood and cedar aren't guaranteed to be free of pests, like termites and wood-borers. They like to eat in the dark, so they tunnel along the grain lines inside the wood where you can't see them. That means that by the time you notice the damage, it's too late. If you see small piles of fine sawdust at the edge of a board or tunnels running inside a board, call a professional exterminator.