Overall – we continue to have dry & sunny weather with near perfect temperatures; just what we need right now as our efforts are dedicated to get both buildings adequately closed in. Plumbers and electricians are eager to continue their contribution to the project, but need me to provide the necessary details for accurate locations of various fixtures, switches and receptacles. I’m not ignoring them (actually, I suppose I am) – I just need to complete a couple more exterior projects, so everyone is more comfortable working inside when outside temperatures are certain to fall (Fall… get it ?) lol
Monday – Purchased lumber and other materials over the weekend so we could begin construction of the front porch roof. A simple 4-12 pitched, shed style structure. Fantastic weather continues: low’s 40’s overnight and 70 degrees by lunch time.
Tuesday – continued porch framing. Using 2×6 boards for rafters (porch is only 10 feet deep), but selected 2×8 boards for the ceiling joists. We want porch swings and by spending a little more for the larger lumber, we will have greater flexibility for swing locations on the porch.
Wednesday – all but completed the front porch today. Framing is complete, sheathing is installed and covered with roofing felt. All that remains, is nailing shingles. Will keep an eye on the weather and get shingles installed when the forecast warns us of impending wet weather.
Thursday – starting the deck this morning. A large, more physically demanding project. Treated 2x8x16′ boards are really heavy, and the back yard slopes downhill. We finished the day with great progress. Like a few other details we have encountered along the way; the plan didn’t mesh well with the reality of the situation. Stated another way – the concrete pads we poured a few weeks ago as foundations for the main deck posts – are not where they should be located for best results. What to do ? Modify the plan. I came up with an elegant solution the next day, and we are incorporating the change. When you come to visit, let me know if you can see our planning error.
Friday – Nearly completed deck framing. All that remains is installing deck boards and the railing, and… 5 more posts to be purchased and installed (see yesterday’s comment about elegant solutions and changed plans) This deck is certainly a monster; measuring 16′ deep and 32′ wide. Yet, I believe the deck is in proportion to the west wall of the great room with the high vaulted ceiling and windows that fill the west wall.
Saturday – Spent the morning at the computer; logging, scanning and uploading receipts. Now that we have spent our cash obligation, we are making draws against the construction loan. I’m making sure to maintain a current status for this admin task so when I need more $$$$$, I can request a draw with a click of the mouse. Also spent time online shopping a variety of materials, appliances and cabinets. Went to the construction site in the afternoon; just to observe, ponder, measure and take notes of the wide variety of decisions we will be making in the near term. If I don’t write it down (in an organized manner) it will likely be forgotten until it’s too late.
Sunday – More home construction internet searching in the AM, followed by a family gathering at Dad’s house for lunch. After that we all drove out to the site so everyone could see what we’ve been doing. Worked briefly on the truck no start troubleshooting. I finally found a Chevy truck forum w/ a few knowledgable technicians. Posted the issue, symptoms, parts replaced, and electrical tests/checks already accomplished and the results. A reply came back this morning with a couple specific wire chasing tests using a VOM. Posted the results, waiting for a reply.
0 Comments