At Bluewater Building Company, we take pride in building homes that are not only beautiful but structurally sound and built to last. This month, we’re taking you behind the scenes at our Custom Home Build in St. Andrew’s Village, Ford’s Colony, Williamsburg, VA, to explore the framing process and the installation of a Steel I Beam—a critical step in creating an open-concept home with proper structural support.
Whether you’re a future homeowner, a real estate professional, or just curious about how homes are built, this deep dive will give you insight into the key steps of framing and the essential structural elements that make up a solid home.
Step 1: Laying the Groundwork – Foundation & Floor System
Every home starts with a strong foundation. Once the foundation is approved, the first step in the framing process is to install the box, also known as the floor system. This consists of:
- Sill Plate – A treated wood plate that sits on top of the foundation to anchor the home.
- Floor Joists – Horizontal framing members that span across the foundation to support the floor above.
- Subfloor – A sturdy layer of sheathing (often plywood or OSB) that creates the base of the first floor.
With the floor system in place, we now have a solid base to begin framing the walls of the home.
Step 2: Framing the Walls – Posts, Studs, and Girders
Framing is like the skeleton of a home, defining the layout, structure, and stability of the building. Some key framing components include:
- Studs – The vertical framing members that make up the walls. Typically spaced 16 or 24 inches apart, they support drywall, insulation, and everything that will be attached to the walls.
- Posts – Thicker vertical beams designed to bear heavy loads, often found in open spaces or supporting staircases and second floors.
- Girders – Large horizontal beams that support weight over long spans, often found in basements or under major load-bearing walls.
- Headers – Reinforced framing above doorways and windows, ensuring structural integrity while allowing for openings.
As we frame the first-floor walls, we include doorways, window openings, and support structures to prepare for the second floor.
👉 Watch the Framing Process Here
Step 3: Second Floor & Preparing for the Steel I Beam Installation
Once the first-floor walls are secured, it’s time to frame up to the second story. The second-floor system is built similarly to the first floor, with joists, subflooring, and carefully planned wall placements.
At this stage, supporting beams become critical—especially for open-concept layouts. Instead of relying on multiple posts or walls to bear the weight, we use a Steel I Beam to provide strength and stability while keeping the space open.
Step 4: Installing the Steel I Beam – The Key to an Open-Concept Home
In modern home design, homeowners love spacious, open layouts. However, removing interior walls requires strong support elsewhere. This is where a Steel I Beam comes in.
What is a Steel I Beam?
A Steel I Beam is a large, structural steel member shaped like the letter “I.” It is designed to handle massive loads while spanning long distances, making it ideal for open-concept homes.
Why Use a Steel I Beam?
- Supports weight without visible posts or walls – This allows homeowners to enjoy wide, uninterrupted spaces.
- Distributes load evenly – The beam carries the weight of the second floor and roof to the foundation without needing excessive framing underneath.
- Increases durability and longevity – Steel beams are incredibly strong and resistant to warping, sagging, or shifting over time.
Once in place, the Steel I Beam is carefully secured within the framing so that it remains hidden from view once the home is finished. This ensures both structural integrity and a clean, modern aesthetic.
Step 5: Completing the Framing & Moving Forward
After the Steel I Beam is installed, we frame the remaining second-floor walls and complete the roofing system, which consists of:
- Roof Trusses or Rafters – The angled beams that create the roof’s shape.
- Roof Sheathing – A layer of plywood or OSB that forms the base of the roof.
- GAF Roofing System Installation – As GAF Certified Roofing Contractors, we use high-quality roofing materials with strong, transferrable warranties to protect the home for years to come.
Once framing is complete, the home is ready for the next phase: mechanical, electrical, and plumbing installations, followed by insulation and drywall.
Watch the Process in Action! 🎥
Seeing is believing! Watch as we bring this home to life, step by step:
👉 Watch the Framing Process Here
👉 See the Steel I Beam Installation Here
At Bluewater Building Company, we take every step seriously to ensure our homes are built with quality craftsmanship, structural integrity, and innovative design. Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading your existing one, we’re here to help bring your vision to reality.
