We do the little things that make a

 BIG difference

Additions.

We take that extra step. Starting with the concrete. We do not over hydrate (put in extra water) (some finishers do this to add time and ease to the finishing (it immediately reduces the strength of the concrete). Concrete is an interesting substance you do not want to much water when it is being poured but the slower the water leaves the less likely cracks will occur. (this is the short version but the extra water and calcium leave pocket when the water evaporates) we auto water your slab for 2 weeks (concrete stops hardening once it stops evaporating) the same thing goes for stucco, it should be wet once or twice a day at each of the three coats. Stucco should be taken to end of plane i.e. the interior or exterior corner to make sure you have a consistent color.

 

An addition should not look like one when you are done.

 

On the subject of the code. There are several codes and some conflict them self's. The code actually states that Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is the final say. But really what should be used as a guide (and the code refers back to this) is the ICBO and ASTM standards set by the manufacture, they know their product. They also usually will not warranty their product unless it is installed according to their specifications. So if your contractor makes a big deal about built to code he is just doing the minimum and they have to build it to this minimum. San Diego has several codes that are  more strict than the building code.

 

 

To contact us:

Phone:  (858) 722-9108               (619) 581-5950

Fax:                           (858) 345-3847

E-mail:   info@genemccormickconstruction.com

12455 Via Cabezon

San Diego, CA 92129

Ca lic # 878838

 

 

 

 

 

More information coming soon, check back soon or call and we can show you in person

So ask your builder if he knows the ICBO for his product(s). Most installers learn their trade from some one and do it that way, never questioning whether it is correct. The chances are they do not. Most homes constructed in the USA have defects in them after they are built. This is after they have been inspected and passed that inspection.

 

 I am just  venting here. I just did a site visit and there was another contractor who suggested placing a retaining wall on the outside of the existing wall to stabilize the existing wall. The reason this will not work is that you are not placing  a footing behind the wall which is the whole idea of the footing. The forces exerted on the vertical plane behind the wall off set the forces exerted on the horizontal part of the wall (please see the fence/wall section for a diagram) But this guy specializes in walls and does not understand the physics involved which you really should, sure he does not need to be an engineer but he should know why he is putting the material in place.

 

Sorry I have not really got to this page yet