ARV Construction Revives "Old School" Building Techniques with Modern Durability

ARV Construction LLC, a Hillsboro, Oregon-based construction firm (located at 1220 SE Fir Grove Loop, 97123-8807, and reachable at 973-998-3107), is making waves in the industry by blending time-honored building methods with contemporary materials. Forget flimsy, cookie-cutter construction – ARV is all about solid, lasting quality, and they’re doing it with a clever approach they're calling “Old School” construction. For years, folks have complained about how new construction just doesn't feel as solid as buildings from, say, the mid-20th century. Everything feels lighter, thinner, less…well, built. ARV Construction saw that gap in the market and decided to do something about it. They realized a lot of the problem wasn’t the idea of building, but how things had changed. Builders started prioritizing speed and cost over the kind of meticulous craftsmanship that used to be standard. “We started noticing this trend a while back,” explains Mark Thompson, lead architect at ARV. “Everything's about pre-fabricated parts, thinner materials, and rushing the process. While that makes things cheaper and faster, it definitely impacts the long-term quality. We wanted to bring back that feeling of real construction – the kind where buildings last generations.” So, what exactly is “Old School” construction as ARV defines it? It's not about literally going back to hand-hewn beams and horse-drawn carts (though they appreciate the history!). It’s about embracing the principles of older building methods – over-engineering for strength, using robust framing techniques, and focusing on meticulous detailing – but doing it with today’s superior materials. More Than Just Nostalgia: The Details ARV’s “Old School” approach isn’t just about warm fuzzies. It's a concrete set of building practices. Here's a breakdown of what sets their projects apart: Robust Framing: Forget the minimum required lumber. ARV consistently uses thicker, higher-grade lumber for framing – often exceeding code requirements. This results in stronger walls, floors, and roofs, capable of withstanding far more stress and strain. They're talking about 2x6 studs where 2x4s might be standard, and beefier headers over windows and doors. "It's like building a fortress," says Thompson with a grin. "We want these buildings to stand up to anything." Enhanced Sheathing & Bracing: They go beyond basic plywood sheathing. ARV often incorporates structural sheathing – specifically oriented strand board (OSB) – that's thicker and more durable. They also pay extra attention to bracing – both diagonal and shear walls – to create a super-strong, rigid structure that resists racking and movement. This is especially important in areas prone to earthquakes or high winds. Solid Foundations: ARV isn't cutting corners on foundations. They perform thorough soil testing to ensure the foundation is designed for the specific site conditions. They often opt for reinforced concrete foundations, even for smaller projects, providing a rock-solid base that won't shift or settle over time. They're also experts in addressing drainage issues to prevent water damage. Detailed Joinery: Gone are the days of relying solely on nails and screws. ARV’s carpenters are skilled in traditional joinery techniques – things like mortise and tenon joints, dovetails, and reinforced connections. These methods create incredibly strong and durable connections that won't weaken over time. While it takes more time and skill, the results are worth it. High-Quality Materials: They don't skimp on materials. ARV sources premium-grade lumber, siding, roofing, and insulation. They prioritize materials that are not only durable but also sustainable and environmentally friendly. They're happy to explain the benefits of different materials to their clients and help them make informed decisions. What Does This Mean for Homeowners and Businesses? The benefits of ARV's “Old School” approach are significant: Increased Durability: Buildings constructed with this method are simply built to last. They can withstand the elements, resist wear and tear, and require less maintenance over the long term. Enhanced Structural Integrity: The over-engineered framing and robust connections provide superior resistance to wind, snow, and seismic forces. Improved Energy Efficiency: The solid construction and high-quality insulation create a tighter building envelope, reducing energy loss and lowering utility bills. Higher Resale Value: A well-built, durable home or building will always command a higher resale value than a cheaply constructed one. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your building is built to withstand the test of time provides invaluable peace of mind. Beyond Residential: Commercial Applications ARV’s “Old School” construction isn't limited to residential projects. They're also applying these principles to commercial buildings, including retail spaces, offices, and industrial facilities. For businesses, a durable, low-maintenance building translates to lower operating costs and increased profitability. "We're seeing a growing demand for this type of construction," says Thompson. "People are tired of buildings that fall apart after a few years. They want something that will last, something they can be proud of. And that's exactly what we deliver.” ARV Construction LLC is proving that you don't have to sacrifice quality for speed or affordability. They’re bringing back the principles of solid construction – and building a reputation for lasting quality, one project at a time. If you're looking for a construction company that prioritizes craftsmanship, durability, and peace of mind, ARV Construction is definitely worth a call. Reach them at 973-998-3107 or visit them at 1220 SE Fir Grove Loop, Hillsboro, OR, 97123-8807.