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Avatar for OCM Services, LLC

OCM Services, LLC

5.00(
7
)
Approved Pro

OCM Services, LLC

5.00(
7
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
2009 years of experience

Hello, We’d like to take a moment to introduce ourselves—OCM Services L.L.C., a family-owned and operated remodeling company proudly serving Gloucester County and the surrounding areas for over 15 years. As a Class A licensed, insured, and bonded contractor, we bring a hands-on, personalized approach to every project we take on. Our team specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, garage conversions, whole-house renovations, and water remediation. We also handle handyman services between major projects, ensuring you always have a trusted professional to call on. At OCM Services, we pride ourselves on being your one-stop solution. From design with 3D renderings to the final coat of paint, we manage every aspect of your project—so you don’t have to hire multiple contractors. Whether you're remodeling a residential home, commercial property, or multifamily unit, we have the experience to get it done right. We understand that every homeowner has a unique vision and budget. That’s why we offer custom design options, work with VA loans and insurance companies, and provide access to third-party financing. We’re here to help you make smart decisions with the right products for your goals and budget. As part of our commitment to our community, we proudly offer discounts to military personnel and first responders, along with referral bonuses for those who recommend our services. Above all, we believe in treating every client like family—with honesty, respect, and a strong work ethic that shows in everything we do. If you're ready to bring your ideas to life, we’d be honored to work with you. Warm regards, Adam Williams Owner/Manager

"It went great"

Carlton B on May 2023

Hello, We’d like to take a moment to introduce ourselves—OCM Services L.L.C., a family-owned and operated remodeling company proudly serving Gloucester County and the surrounding areas for over 15 years. As a Class A licensed, insured, and bonded contractor, we bring a hands-on, personalized approach to every project we take on. Our team specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, garage conversions, whole-house renovations, and water remediation. We also handle handyman services between major projects, ensuring you always have a trusted professional to call on. At OCM Services, we pride ourselves on being your one-stop solution. From design with 3D renderings to the final coat of paint, we manage every aspect of your project—so you don’t have to hire multiple contractors. Whether you're remodeling a residential home, commercial property, or multifamily unit, we have the experience to get it done right. We understand that every homeowner has a unique vision and budget. That’s why we offer custom design options, work with VA loans and insurance companies, and provide access to third-party financing. We’re here to help you make smart decisions with the right products for your goals and budget. As part of our commitment to our community, we proudly offer discounts to military personnel and first responders, along with referral bonuses for those who recommend our services. Above all, we believe in treating every client like family—with honesty, respect, and a strong work ethic that shows in everything we do. If you're ready to bring your ideas to life, we’d be honored to work with you. Warm regards, Adam Williams Owner/Manager

"It went great"

Carlton B on May 2023


Jenkins Construction

4.33(
9
)
Approved Pro

Jenkins Construction

4.33(
9
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
1995 years of experience
Free onsite estimate

With many years of devoted industry experience, Jenkins Construction, is the Northern Neck of Virginia area's premier choice for any of your residential or commercial contracting needs. We offer a wide array of services, and specialize in large, high end remodels and additions. If you've been thinking about consulting a local contracting pro, please wait no longer and give us a call today - thank you!

"Jenkins Construction of Lancaster just finished up remodeling our kitchen and one of our bathrooms. The country home was almost 40 years old and looked every bit of it. They first had to tear out and replace part of the wallboard in the kitchen that had been damaged by water leakage. Then they had to remove wallpaper in the bathroom. Both of those were time consuming. Things moved along quickly after that. Both rooms were painted and new flooring installed. They also put in a new toilet, kitchen faucet, light fixture, and range hood. They were on time everyday and worked about 8 hours. The guys were very detailed as there was a lot of trim to remove and put back. The whole project was finished in about the time and at about the cost I had been given. Clean up was excellent everyday. Super pleased with their work and would hire them again."

Barbara S on November 2023

With many years of devoted industry experience, Jenkins Construction, is the Northern Neck of Virginia area's premier choice for any of your residential or commercial contracting needs. We offer a wide array of services, and specialize in large, high end remodels and additions. If you've been thinking about consulting a local contracting pro, please wait no longer and give us a call today - thank you!

"Jenkins Construction of Lancaster just finished up remodeling our kitchen and one of our bathrooms. The country home was almost 40 years old and looked every bit of it. They first had to tear out and replace part of the wallboard in the kitchen that had been damaged by water leakage. Then they had to remove wallpaper in the bathroom. Both of those were time consuming. Things moved along quickly after that. Both rooms were painted and new flooring installed. They also put in a new toilet, kitchen faucet, light fixture, and range hood. They were on time everyday and worked about 8 hours. The guys were very detailed as there was a lot of trim to remove and put back. The whole project was finished in about the time and at about the cost I had been given. Clean up was excellent everyday. Super pleased with their work and would hire them again."

Barbara S on November 2023


Avatar for Micho Construction

Micho Construction

5.00(
3
)
Approved Pro

Micho Construction

5.00(
3
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Wilmer is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"Job went as expected from beginning to end. We are very happy!"

Angela B on July 2025

Wilmer is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"Job went as expected from beginning to end. We are very happy!"

Angela B on July 2025


Gutter Glove of North Carolina LLC

4.80(
66
)

Gutter Glove of North Carolina LLC

4.80(
66
)
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 93% of Angi customers
Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers

Award winning. Gutter Glove of NC LLC is the premium supplier of gutter protection system in the State of North Carolina. Additional contact names - Richard Stroup, Louis Sauer. Additional phone - (919) 696-8839. Award wining.

"Owner Ricky Stroup was infinitely patient with us, as after our initial meeting it took us over a year to hire his company to do this work. During that year, we had multiple conversations with him regarding the scope of our project, and he was as willing to contract the scope as to expand it. He wrote several proposals for us, so we could see the financial impacts of our different scope options. Our indecision on scope, and delay in scheduling, never caused any frustration or ill will on his part. Mr. Stroup was helpful, friendly, and patient throughout! His team installed everything in one day, and all who worked on our project were extremely courteous and professional. We have been very impressed with the quality of the work. Working with Gutter Glove of North Carolina was an enjoyable experience, and I recommend this company!"

Elizabeth H on October 2018

Award winning. Gutter Glove of NC LLC is the premium supplier of gutter protection system in the State of North Carolina. Additional contact names - Richard Stroup, Louis Sauer. Additional phone - (919) 696-8839. Award wining.

"Owner Ricky Stroup was infinitely patient with us, as after our initial meeting it took us over a year to hire his company to do this work. During that year, we had multiple conversations with him regarding the scope of our project, and he was as willing to contract the scope as to expand it. He wrote several proposals for us, so we could see the financial impacts of our different scope options. Our indecision on scope, and delay in scheduling, never caused any frustration or ill will on his part. Mr. Stroup was helpful, friendly, and patient throughout! His team installed everything in one day, and all who worked on our project were extremely courteous and professional. We have been very impressed with the quality of the work. Working with Gutter Glove of North Carolina was an enjoyable experience, and I recommend this company!"

Elizabeth H on October 2018


Avatar for Window Universe

Window Universe

4.53(
352
)

Window Universe

4.53(
352
)
Customers say: Quality work
2003 years of experience

Window Universe is a major window and door replacement company with locations serving the entire Washington, DC area, Fredericksburg and Richmond. Alexandria phone is 703-595-4499, Fredericksburg is 540-907-4960 and Richmond phone is 804-441-8060. They are licensed, bonded and insured in Maryland, Washington, DC. and Virginia. Additional Contact Jane Malasko. Services include replacement windows of all types (including bay windows, bow windows, casement windows, sliding windows, double hung windows, etc.), energy efficient doors including French doors, patio doors, entry doors and storm doors. All installers are extensively trained and certified to perform their work. As a result, all windows and doors come with a lifetime warranty.

"Everything went well. They arrived on time, did a good job, cleaned up after themselves, and the communication was great. I would hire them again."

Maritza O on December 2020

Window Universe is a major window and door replacement company with locations serving the entire Washington, DC area, Fredericksburg and Richmond. Alexandria phone is 703-595-4499, Fredericksburg is 540-907-4960 and Richmond phone is 804-441-8060. They are licensed, bonded and insured in Maryland, Washington, DC. and Virginia. Additional Contact Jane Malasko. Services include replacement windows of all types (including bay windows, bow windows, casement windows, sliding windows, double hung windows, etc.), energy efficient doors including French doors, patio doors, entry doors and storm doors. All installers are extensively trained and certified to perform their work. As a result, all windows and doors come with a lifetime warranty.

"Everything went well. They arrived on time, did a good job, cleaned up after themselves, and the communication was great. I would hire them again."

Maritza O on December 2020


Avatar for Largo Marble & Granite

Largo Marble & Granite

5.00(
17
)

Largo Marble & Granite

5.00(
17
)
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Established in 2009, We have traveled as far as New York and North Carolina to meet our customers' needs. No matter the size or scope of the project, we will fully commit to meeting the needs of each of our customers.This is what makes Largo Marble and Granite different from the rest; we treat each and every customer as a relationship - not a just job. Our fabrication shop and showroom is located in Sterling, Virginia. All of our stone fabrication machinery is less than 5 years old and made in Italy. We pride ourselves with the fact that all cutting and polishing is done in our shop with water. This not only ensures a safe and sustainable working environment for our employees by virtually eliminating potentially harmful airborne dust; but it also provides the highest quality finished product.

Established in 2009, We have traveled as far as New York and North Carolina to meet our customers' needs. No matter the size or scope of the project, we will fully commit to meeting the needs of each of our customers.This is what makes Largo Marble and Granite different from the rest; we treat each and every customer as a relationship - not a just job. Our fabrication shop and showroom is located in Sterling, Virginia. All of our stone fabrication machinery is less than 5 years old and made in Italy. We pride ourselves with the fact that all cutting and polishing is done in our shop with water. This not only ensures a safe and sustainable working environment for our employees by virtually eliminating potentially harmful airborne dust; but it also provides the highest quality finished product.


Avatar for H R Stairs & Rails

H R Stairs & Rails

4.94(
34
)

H R Stairs & Rails

4.94(
34
)
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers

Over the past 30 years, H R Stairs & Rails has completed more than two thousand stair and railing projects under the direction of master craftsman Hooshang Rashidi. We take pride in our work and strive to exceed our client's expectations. We are "Staircase and Railing Builders". Our craftsmanship & attention to detail positively impacts the delivery of H R Stairs & Rails finished products, from complex staircase designs to small stair repair and baluster replacement. By concentrating all our efforts on staircases and railings in the Washington DC Metropolitan area we are able to provide our clients with specialized expertise, allowing us to provide superior workmanship and service. We look forward to being your staircase contractor. Cost is determined by the job.

"I can only reiterate the many positive Angi reviews discussing the high standard of work produced by Mr. Rashidi and his assistant. Mr. Rashidi was able to begin work one week after providing an estimate and completed the job in four days after working steadily throughout that time. We are more than satisfied with the result and would highly recommend this company. Real craftsmanship at a reasonable price."

Ellen L on May 2022

Over the past 30 years, H R Stairs & Rails has completed more than two thousand stair and railing projects under the direction of master craftsman Hooshang Rashidi. We take pride in our work and strive to exceed our client's expectations. We are "Staircase and Railing Builders". Our craftsmanship & attention to detail positively impacts the delivery of H R Stairs & Rails finished products, from complex staircase designs to small stair repair and baluster replacement. By concentrating all our efforts on staircases and railings in the Washington DC Metropolitan area we are able to provide our clients with specialized expertise, allowing us to provide superior workmanship and service. We look forward to being your staircase contractor. Cost is determined by the job.

"I can only reiterate the many positive Angi reviews discussing the high standard of work produced by Mr. Rashidi and his assistant. Mr. Rashidi was able to begin work one week after providing an estimate and completed the job in four days after working steadily throughout that time. We are more than satisfied with the result and would highly recommend this company. Real craftsmanship at a reasonable price."

Ellen L on May 2022


Avatar for Wheeler Brothers LLC

Wheeler Brothers LLC

5.00(
11
)

Wheeler Brothers LLC

5.00(
11
)
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Hello All, We are a Small Veteran Owned and Operated Business serving the Gloucester and surrounding areas. We offer Construction, Remodeling and just about anything you can think of, for very reasonable prices. Between the two of us we have 30 plus years experience with all household projects, and we can even go as far as helping with car troubles, just give us a call and let us know what you need. We don't believe in a job that's too big or too small, we are here to help you in anyway we can. We are both retired Army Veterans and just want to help you fix any issues that may come your way. If you would like more information or want us to come give you an estimate, please email, call or text us anytime. We even do emergency calls for an additional fee. We hope to hear from you. Thanks for your time! -Wheeler Brothers LLC 804-824-1383 / 706-455-8516 [email protected]

"I found the Wheeler Brothers on Angie's List and called to discuss the work that I needed done. They were very responsive to my phone calls and e-mails, and we agreed on an estimate and date for the work to be completed. They arrived on time and completed all of the work in one day. While working, they suggested some repairs to the gutters that would help to prevent future damage. I agreed to the additional work and the additional charge for materials and labor. I am very satisfied with the work done by the Wheeler Brothers, particularly in the areas of responsiveness, competence, and price. I expect to hire them again for some additional work later this year."

Dane Y on August 2019

Hello All, We are a Small Veteran Owned and Operated Business serving the Gloucester and surrounding areas. We offer Construction, Remodeling and just about anything you can think of, for very reasonable prices. Between the two of us we have 30 plus years experience with all household projects, and we can even go as far as helping with car troubles, just give us a call and let us know what you need. We don't believe in a job that's too big or too small, we are here to help you in anyway we can. We are both retired Army Veterans and just want to help you fix any issues that may come your way. If you would like more information or want us to come give you an estimate, please email, call or text us anytime. We even do emergency calls for an additional fee. We hope to hear from you. Thanks for your time! -Wheeler Brothers LLC 804-824-1383 / 706-455-8516 [email protected]

"I found the Wheeler Brothers on Angie's List and called to discuss the work that I needed done. They were very responsive to my phone calls and e-mails, and we agreed on an estimate and date for the work to be completed. They arrived on time and completed all of the work in one day. While working, they suggested some repairs to the gutters that would help to prevent future damage. I agreed to the additional work and the additional charge for materials and labor. I am very satisfied with the work done by the Wheeler Brothers, particularly in the areas of responsiveness, competence, and price. I expect to hire them again for some additional work later this year."

Dane Y on August 2019


Avatar for Window Nation Lorton

Window Nation Lorton

4.24(
406
)

Window Nation Lorton

4.24(
406
)
Customers say: Quality work
2006 years of experience

At Window Nation, we know replacement windows. We’re third-generation window replacement experts who have been lucky to provide homeowners replacement windows, siding, and doors for over fifteen years. We opened our first showroom in Maryland in 2006, quickly growing to serve homeowners in cities across the country – and we’re not stopping there. We’re grateful for every homeowner who has trusted us to upgrade their most important asset: their home. We’ve learned a lot about home improvement over the years, but the most important thing we learned isn’t about window replacement. We learned the home improvement industry isn’t about offering the best windows, siding and doors; it’s about the relationships we build with our customers.

"Love our new Grand View Windows from Window Nation 17 Windows and 1 Sliding Glass Door We did quite a bit of research, explored a lot of companies and choose Window Nation for our project. And we are happy we did. The whole process from presentation to installation was easy and efficient. Reza arrived at our house on time for the presentation. He inspected and measured our windows and then launched into the presentation. Reza is knowledgeable about the Window Nation offering as well as the products offered by his competitors. As mentioned, I did some research and had an idea of the features that we wanted and what we should pay. Reza presented the Window Nation Grand View line, which meets our feature requirements, and after a bit of back-and-forth negotiation we settled on a price that was within our range and fair to us both. After signing, Reza described the next steps and set expectations. Overall, the presentation took only about an hour and was relatively painless, with no high-pressure tactics. Several days later, Mike came by to inspect our windows and confirm measurements for the build specifications. This took only about a half-hour. Mike answered some questions about the installation process and said that the windows and door could take up to 6 weeks to build. Imagine our surprise when we received a call a week later to schedule our installation. On installation day, the three-man team arrived on time. They introduced themselves and the team lead, Ted, described the process and then they got right to work. They tarped the paths to all the windows to protect the floors. They were very careful and respectful of our house. The entire team was friendly and polite and experienced and highly skilled. You could tell that they’d done this a time or two. The outside trim work is fantastic and the inside finish work is great. All 17 windows and the sliding door were installed in a single day. Ted went over the operation of the windows and door. The windows and door look and function great. We couldn’t be happier. If you are considering a window or door replacement project, we strongly recommend that you engage Window Nation. They will treat you right."

Richard M on April 2025

At Window Nation, we know replacement windows. We’re third-generation window replacement experts who have been lucky to provide homeowners replacement windows, siding, and doors for over fifteen years. We opened our first showroom in Maryland in 2006, quickly growing to serve homeowners in cities across the country – and we’re not stopping there. We’re grateful for every homeowner who has trusted us to upgrade their most important asset: their home. We’ve learned a lot about home improvement over the years, but the most important thing we learned isn’t about window replacement. We learned the home improvement industry isn’t about offering the best windows, siding and doors; it’s about the relationships we build with our customers.

"Love our new Grand View Windows from Window Nation 17 Windows and 1 Sliding Glass Door We did quite a bit of research, explored a lot of companies and choose Window Nation for our project. And we are happy we did. The whole process from presentation to installation was easy and efficient. Reza arrived at our house on time for the presentation. He inspected and measured our windows and then launched into the presentation. Reza is knowledgeable about the Window Nation offering as well as the products offered by his competitors. As mentioned, I did some research and had an idea of the features that we wanted and what we should pay. Reza presented the Window Nation Grand View line, which meets our feature requirements, and after a bit of back-and-forth negotiation we settled on a price that was within our range and fair to us both. After signing, Reza described the next steps and set expectations. Overall, the presentation took only about an hour and was relatively painless, with no high-pressure tactics. Several days later, Mike came by to inspect our windows and confirm measurements for the build specifications. This took only about a half-hour. Mike answered some questions about the installation process and said that the windows and door could take up to 6 weeks to build. Imagine our surprise when we received a call a week later to schedule our installation. On installation day, the three-man team arrived on time. They introduced themselves and the team lead, Ted, described the process and then they got right to work. They tarped the paths to all the windows to protect the floors. They were very careful and respectful of our house. The entire team was friendly and polite and experienced and highly skilled. You could tell that they’d done this a time or two. The outside trim work is fantastic and the inside finish work is great. All 17 windows and the sliding door were installed in a single day. Ted went over the operation of the windows and door. The windows and door look and function great. We couldn’t be happier. If you are considering a window or door replacement project, we strongly recommend that you engage Window Nation. They will treat you right."

Richard M on April 2025


Avatar for Ballard & Mensua Architecture

Ballard & Mensua Architecture

4.75(
20
)

Ballard & Mensua Architecture

4.75(
20
)
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers

Ballard Mensua Architecture, led by Seth Ballard, NCARB, AIA, is a boutique architecture firm with a focus on creating truly custom designs and solutions for our clients. We have very strong vendor and contractor relationships, a result of our detailed understanding of construction. Unlike many architects, who like to design and then hand over control to the builder, Ballard Mensua maintains control of management of the project throughout construction. We have a unique cost-study process that helps to put our clients in control of spending... and results in completion of projects on budget.. almost unheard of in this business. Our designs speak for themselves... see our website at www.ballardmensua.com. Our business philosophy is that all clients should be a reference and we work hard to make sure to see projects through. We also have a unique ability to do very large projects without tearing a house down... we save much of the house and build around it... saving sometimes 10 dumpsters of landfill (truly green). Finally, where many architects bring their large ego and force their designs on clients... Ballard Mensua prides ourselves on tailoring designs to each client, listening to specific needs and working hard to make sure that our designs fit what a client is looking for. Additional email - [email protected].

"We just finished a spectacular custom home project in McLean, VA and we are so very grateful to Seth Ballard and his team! If you are considering hiring his firm, look no further. There can be no better architect in the DC/VA/MD area – and his pricing is more than fair. We first picked Seth because we loved his architectural style and heard that he had a reputation for ensuring that his plans are executed with impeccable precision and attention to quality. Also, his references were stellar….without exception, his former clients offered glowing praise for his talent, diligence, and follow-through. And now that we are former clients, we understand why. We always knew we were going to have a gem of a home with Seth at the helm. What we did not fully appreciate at the beginning was his proven ability to help us STAY ON BUDGET and his deep bench of connections with first-rate contractors and subcontractors who were prepared to bend over backward to meet Seth’s exacting standards. Here are just a few highlights from our experience: CONCEPT PHASE: During the initial meetings at our home, Seth went the extra mile to learn all about our lifestyle, future needs, architectural likes/dislikes, and budget. During this stage of the process, he would effortlessly make freehand drawings to help us visualize potential styles and layouts. We ultimately elected to go with a craftsman design, with lots of wood features inside and out. PICKING THE RIGHT PROPERTY: Seth joined us for car rides through the local neighborhoods, helping us to scout out the property that was best suited for our construction plans – free of any potential HOA or permitting snafus. DESIGN: With Seth’s guidance, we iterated on different design options. The design phase was high-tech and highly visual. Lots of 2D and 3D elevations, plus 360-degree videos. At each step, Seth clearly identified the estimated construction cost, and we would make decisions about what to dial-up and what to dial-down. For example, we elected to go with a cheaper asphalt roof (rather than slate), but with a more premium window. There were literally dozens of choices like that, and Seth did a superb job of helping us to make the right trade-offs and to “value engineer” the house. PICKING THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR AND SUBS: One of the things that distinguishes Seth from the competition is that he works closely with a handful of contractors and subcontractors who have already been “pre-screened” for excellence. Seth connected us with a general contractor who was not only honest and diligent, but whose carpentry was truly “artisan grade.” Seth also drew upon a stable of outstanding subcontractors – in areas such as HVAC/plumbing, electrical/lighting, structural engineering, cabinetry, tile, drywall/paint, countertops, hardwood flooring, landscaping, etc. It was perfectly clear that these subs were striving to deliver the highest quality and exemplary service. Why? Because Seth was an important source of repeat business for them. This made them extremely responsive. BUDGETING: Seth developed detailed spreadsheets estimating costs for every aspect of the project, as well as options for “enhancements.” Once we made our choices, he was instrumental in securing a FLAT FEE CONTRACT with the builder (inclusive of subs) for everything we wanted. To provide even more control over the cost, the agreement specified that certain items would be “owner provided, contractor installed.” This meant that, regardless of whether we bought pricey appliances or tile or flooring, it would have no impact of the builder’s fees. To his credit, Seth’s estimates were quite accurate, and the project stayed on budget. ARCHITECT FEES: We negotiated a flat fee for Seth’s architectural services, and got way more than we bargained for. We had no idea Seth would stay so engaged throughout the project -- micromanaging every detail, and even offering interior design suggestions (e.g., stains and paints, cabinet and window designs, furniture layouts, etc.). It became clear that, regardless of how much we had agreed to pay in fees, Seth was “all in,” and was committed to ensuring that the end result was perfection. To be sure, in any large construction project, there will be some hiccups. But this was yet another area where Seth shined. Rather than being indifferent, or pointing the finger at those who were actually at fault, he would step up to “own the problem” and take charge until the issue was resolved. In one such case, he developed a design tweak that saved us money and produced a more beautiful result in the process. We never had to stress too much, because we knew Seth was 100% engaged and we could trust that the final work product would be a treasure of a home. One final thought. While Seth’s tremendous talent is obviously perfect for large custom projects, we have no doubt that he can deliver outstanding value for smaller home renovations too. When we did kitchen/bath renovations in our prior home, we naively thought that a “design-and-build” firm would deliver the best solution. With the benefit of hindsight, we could have done so much better hiring Seth as the independent architect and separately hiring a builder who would be accountable to the architect. The result would have been better quality construction, a better value, and far less stress. So whether you are about to embark on a modest remodel or getting ready to “dream big” with a new custom home, look no further than Ballard Mensua Architecture."

jack l on January 2019

Ballard Mensua Architecture, led by Seth Ballard, NCARB, AIA, is a boutique architecture firm with a focus on creating truly custom designs and solutions for our clients. We have very strong vendor and contractor relationships, a result of our detailed understanding of construction. Unlike many architects, who like to design and then hand over control to the builder, Ballard Mensua maintains control of management of the project throughout construction. We have a unique cost-study process that helps to put our clients in control of spending... and results in completion of projects on budget.. almost unheard of in this business. Our designs speak for themselves... see our website at www.ballardmensua.com. Our business philosophy is that all clients should be a reference and we work hard to make sure to see projects through. We also have a unique ability to do very large projects without tearing a house down... we save much of the house and build around it... saving sometimes 10 dumpsters of landfill (truly green). Finally, where many architects bring their large ego and force their designs on clients... Ballard Mensua prides ourselves on tailoring designs to each client, listening to specific needs and working hard to make sure that our designs fit what a client is looking for. Additional email - [email protected].

"We just finished a spectacular custom home project in McLean, VA and we are so very grateful to Seth Ballard and his team! If you are considering hiring his firm, look no further. There can be no better architect in the DC/VA/MD area – and his pricing is more than fair. We first picked Seth because we loved his architectural style and heard that he had a reputation for ensuring that his plans are executed with impeccable precision and attention to quality. Also, his references were stellar….without exception, his former clients offered glowing praise for his talent, diligence, and follow-through. And now that we are former clients, we understand why. We always knew we were going to have a gem of a home with Seth at the helm. What we did not fully appreciate at the beginning was his proven ability to help us STAY ON BUDGET and his deep bench of connections with first-rate contractors and subcontractors who were prepared to bend over backward to meet Seth’s exacting standards. Here are just a few highlights from our experience: CONCEPT PHASE: During the initial meetings at our home, Seth went the extra mile to learn all about our lifestyle, future needs, architectural likes/dislikes, and budget. During this stage of the process, he would effortlessly make freehand drawings to help us visualize potential styles and layouts. We ultimately elected to go with a craftsman design, with lots of wood features inside and out. PICKING THE RIGHT PROPERTY: Seth joined us for car rides through the local neighborhoods, helping us to scout out the property that was best suited for our construction plans – free of any potential HOA or permitting snafus. DESIGN: With Seth’s guidance, we iterated on different design options. The design phase was high-tech and highly visual. Lots of 2D and 3D elevations, plus 360-degree videos. At each step, Seth clearly identified the estimated construction cost, and we would make decisions about what to dial-up and what to dial-down. For example, we elected to go with a cheaper asphalt roof (rather than slate), but with a more premium window. There were literally dozens of choices like that, and Seth did a superb job of helping us to make the right trade-offs and to “value engineer” the house. PICKING THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR AND SUBS: One of the things that distinguishes Seth from the competition is that he works closely with a handful of contractors and subcontractors who have already been “pre-screened” for excellence. Seth connected us with a general contractor who was not only honest and diligent, but whose carpentry was truly “artisan grade.” Seth also drew upon a stable of outstanding subcontractors – in areas such as HVAC/plumbing, electrical/lighting, structural engineering, cabinetry, tile, drywall/paint, countertops, hardwood flooring, landscaping, etc. It was perfectly clear that these subs were striving to deliver the highest quality and exemplary service. Why? Because Seth was an important source of repeat business for them. This made them extremely responsive. BUDGETING: Seth developed detailed spreadsheets estimating costs for every aspect of the project, as well as options for “enhancements.” Once we made our choices, he was instrumental in securing a FLAT FEE CONTRACT with the builder (inclusive of subs) for everything we wanted. To provide even more control over the cost, the agreement specified that certain items would be “owner provided, contractor installed.” This meant that, regardless of whether we bought pricey appliances or tile or flooring, it would have no impact of the builder’s fees. To his credit, Seth’s estimates were quite accurate, and the project stayed on budget. ARCHITECT FEES: We negotiated a flat fee for Seth’s architectural services, and got way more than we bargained for. We had no idea Seth would stay so engaged throughout the project -- micromanaging every detail, and even offering interior design suggestions (e.g., stains and paints, cabinet and window designs, furniture layouts, etc.). It became clear that, regardless of how much we had agreed to pay in fees, Seth was “all in,” and was committed to ensuring that the end result was perfection. To be sure, in any large construction project, there will be some hiccups. But this was yet another area where Seth shined. Rather than being indifferent, or pointing the finger at those who were actually at fault, he would step up to “own the problem” and take charge until the issue was resolved. In one such case, he developed a design tweak that saved us money and produced a more beautiful result in the process. We never had to stress too much, because we knew Seth was 100% engaged and we could trust that the final work product would be a treasure of a home. One final thought. While Seth’s tremendous talent is obviously perfect for large custom projects, we have no doubt that he can deliver outstanding value for smaller home renovations too. When we did kitchen/bath renovations in our prior home, we naively thought that a “design-and-build” firm would deliver the best solution. With the benefit of hindsight, we could have done so much better hiring Seth as the independent architect and separately hiring a builder who would be accountable to the architect. The result would have been better quality construction, a better value, and far less stress. So whether you are about to embark on a modest remodel or getting ready to “dream big” with a new custom home, look no further than Ballard Mensua Architecture."

jack l on January 2019

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Carpentry questions, answered by experts

Begin by analyzing the blueprints and gathering the proper materials before framing a house. With the prep stages behind you, begin by framing the floor of a house on the newly set foundation. Exterior and interior walls come next, along with rough openings for doors and windows. Contractors will then add ceiling and roof rafters to finish things off. 

Not all porch columns are load-bearing, though they can be. Some porch columns are simply decorative. There are ways to identify a load-bearing column, like looking for visible seams and a foundation. Also, check to see if the column directly enters the ground. In some porch installations, a contractor will excavate a hole to install a column into the earth along with a buried cement base for stability.

Stick frames, metal frames, or prefabricated concrete frames are included in framing a house, along with creating the framework and space for windows, doors, and entryways. Other aspects of developing a home—like drywall, insulation, windows, doors, and more—are not included in the cost to frame a house.

Framing a basement takes three to five days, on average, when completed by a professional, though it may take longer for a larger space. Keep in mind this doesn’t include the time to complete the design, obtain permits, and install the drywall on the framing. On average, fully finishing a basement takes an average of 45 days.

In framing, studs are placed at 16-inch intervals to coincide with the typical spacing of wall materials such as drywall or plywood. This spacing is called "on-center" and is necessary for maintaining structural stability and efficient use of materials. The 16-inch spacing also helps to distribute the weight evenly across the building's structure. For those looking to cut material costs and improve energy efficiency, 24-inch stud spacing can be employed through a method called "advanced framing". This requires careful planning and adherence to local building codes to ensure structural integrity.

The Irvington, VA homeowners’ guide to carpentry services

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