Interior demo and structural framing (wall removals + new framing)

What happens

This is the most visible internal phase. The GC opens up the existing house — cabinets, fixtures, flooring, drywall, and walls coming out. Structural framers install the beams and posts that replace bearing walls. The addition's interior framing ties in.

Sequence

1. Interior demo. Cabinets, fixtures, flooring, drywall, ceilings.
2. Selective framing demo. Bearing walls demoed only after temporary support is in place.
3. Beam installation. LVLs, steel, or glulams set per structural drawings. Posts at each end.
4. Load-path verification. Each new post has to bear on something — a beam below, a foundation pad, a continuous wall.
5. Existing framing modifications. Sister joists at the addition tie-in, new headers at relocated openings, retrofit nailing per structural drawings.
6. Subfloor patching. New subfloor where walls came out.

What can change scope here

Demo phase commonly surfaces:

• Rotted sills or rim joists under window walls.
• Knob-and-tube more extensive than expected — common on pre-1960 houses.
• Hidden plumbing problems when walls come down.

Most are routine. The hidden-condition allowance line in the contract handles them administratively rather than as confrontational change orders.

Inspections

• Framing inspection after all wall removals, beams, and new framing are complete and visible.

When framing inspection passes, MEP rough can start.