Not Afraid of a Challenge: Pinnacle Contractors Takes on Structural Framing Repairs After a Storm

Table of Contents

The Challenge

In January, a powerful storm caused a large tree to fall onto Kelly Christopherson’s home, resulting in severe structural damage that rendered the property unsafe for occupancy. The extent of the damage affects the integrity of key structural components, including the roof, walls, and foundation. Immediate action is required to assess the full scope of the damage, secure the structure, and develop a comprehensive repair plan to restore the safety and habitability of the residence. The challenge is compounded by potential complications such as local building regulations, access limitations, movement of large beams, insurance claims, and the need to minimize disruption to Kelly’s living arrangements during the repair process.

Why the Client Chose Pinnacle Contractors

Kelly Christopherson turned to Pinnacle Contractors after other contractors declined to take on the challenging project. She reached out to Andrew Eshleman, a trusted member of her professional network through BNI, who had a reputation for tackling complex issues with integrity. Andrew’s immediate response, “Let’s do it,” provided a crucial lifeline and reassurance amidst the isolation and uncertainty. His willingness to embrace the difficult job not only demonstrated confidence and competence but also helped restore Kelly’s hope in resolving her dire situation. This trust through personal connection played a pivotal role in Kelly’s decision to engage Pinnacle Contractors for the repair and restoration of her home.

Creative Solutions and Planning

Andrew Eshleman’s team approached the repair project with strategic thinking and innovative solutions, crucial for addressing the complexity of the structural damage. The team meticulously planned the sequence of repairs to ensure that no area of the house became inaccessible or destabilized during the process. The team had to come up with a number of creative solutions; in one case, this involved cutting a hole in the side of the house and shoving the beam in just to get it in the room that it needed to be. Additionally, the roof was temporarily propped up on metal stilts to maintain stability as the damaged structural elements were replaced. This methodical and creative approach allowed the team to efficiently restore the home’s safety and integrity while navigating the challenges of the intricate support system.

Execution and Safety

The execution of the repair plan was guided by meticulously engineered solutions, ensuring that every aspect of the restoration adhered to the highest standards of safety and quality. The team utilized precise engineered designs to determine the correct materials, fasteners, and techniques necessary for the repairs, guaranteeing both structural integrity and durability. To further ensure the project’s compliance with modern codes and standards, regular inspections were conducted throughout the process. These inspections provided crucial accountability, confirming that each stage of the work met stringent safety requirements and building regulations. This rigorous approach not only upheld the safety of the repair efforts. 

“Being patient enough to walk into a situation where the solution has not been fully developed yet and holding the client’s hand through that process until we reach a viable solution is key to what we do.”

Team Collaboration and Communication

Effective team collaboration and communication were essential to the success of the repair project. Andrew Eshleman’s team coordinated with multiple subcontractors, including Portland Chimney, ensuring that each specialist’s work was seamlessly integrated into the overall plan. This involved carefully timed removal of scaffolding and other temporary structures to accommodate the schedules and needs of different subcontractors. 

Additionally, Andrew’s team prioritized keeping the client informed throughout the process. Frequent updates on progress and any potential challenges were provided, which not only kept her engaged but also significantly reduced her stress by offering transparency and reassurance. This collaborative approach ensured a smooth workflow and fostered a supportive environment for both the client and the contractors.

Outcome and Results: 

A Swift & Safe Return to Home

Pinnacle Contractors successfully completed the complex repairs on Kelly Christopherson’s home.

“We passed all of our inspections and got the job done with no injuries, no change orders, and no significant delays. The job went swimmingly, compared to how it could have gone under the risky circumstances.” 

For Kelly, the outcome brought profound emotional relief. The resolution of her long-standing uncertainty allowed her to return to her home, alleviating the stress and anxiety that had been inherent in the situation. The successful completion not only restored her confidence in her home’s safety and value but also reaffirmed her trust in the reliability and expertise of Pinnacle Contractors.