Building & Planning Process

We offer more than one class of building in order to satisfy ALL our customers' needs. We look at it like the auto industry: the Pinto, Chevy, Cadillac, or Rolls Royce models.

The plan is always to choose a product that will last for the long term with minimal problems. Even with the Pinto, we don't want future problems to create a dissatisfied customer. We can economize to make that Pinto, but we are only willing to go so far. Exterior products must be of long-lasting quality to withstand the weather and sub-par maintenance. So it is only so far we can go and feel good about it.

Getting a qualified person to advise about exterior siding, trim, prime, and paint is always good. We have learned from past experiences that the limited warranty some suppliers put on their siding is to cover it only well in case you have problems; the manufacturer will not cover the repair charges, knowing that future problems are inevitable. It would be best if you avoided this, for sure.

Steps of the Building Process

  • Pick your desired quality-level building
  • Lay out the design to show complete details
  • Select a material grade to be used
  • Assemble the unit with the correct nails & screws for each task
  • Prime and paint, giving additional protection from the elements
  • Use craftsmanship that meets the quality level of the building selected

The craftsmen that build the Pinto do not build the Cadillac and vice versa. You get what you pay for. We deal with many building suppliers, each of which has its own quality level. You get to pick and choose. For the most part, we use Mennonite and Amish craftsmen, with an above-average workmanship reputation.

But as Rodney says, "I'm always trying to get what I pay for, and I like perfection!" Then, I pass the value on to my customers.

Virginia Custom Buildings & Play Centers, LLC

PLANNING PROCESS

Your planning process begins with determining what your building will be used for.

  • How much space will you require for today's needs – and then envision 10 years from now?
  • Will your yard need any site work, such as tree removal, leveling, foundation, or pad work?
  • Will the pathway to the site enable the delivery truck and trailer maneuverability?
  • Take a picture of your home and any outbuildings. Bring them with you on your first visit.
  • Draw a diagram to show your lot layout; illustrate the street, driveway, home, outbuildings, septic field & tank, well, trees, and fences. Indicate where the shed will be located. This information will help the planning process go smoothly.
  • Think about what customization you want to have made to the building so that it fits like a glove – both physically into your designated space and aesthetically into your yard.
  • After you have decided on a location for your building, visualize it from the driveway, deck, street, etc.
  • Consider how you want it to look; where do you want/need windows or doors? Decide on what shape of roof would look best, and so on.
  • Determine exterior cosmetics; what color paint or stain you want. Select shingle style and color, roof pitch, overhangs, air vents, trim style, window size, shutters, door style, and size. Wall heights are influenced by the roof pitch.
  • Interior options to consider: workbenches, lofts, and shelves. You may want to include insulation, heat, A/C, partitions, or lights.