The dust has settled (actually it was controlled with HEPA filter air-scrubbers. Thanks BuildClean!) and a coat of primer has gone on all the new and patched drywall. Everything glows with the new bright white coating and we are ready to install the new furnace and drop the hardwood flooring off.
One of the really fun parts of remodeling old homes is the stuff you find in the walls. Today for instance we opened up one of the original plaster areas on the underside of the staircase. Our home was originally build in 1929 so this has had some time to collect. Here is a collection of the best pieces found (note the date of the postage on the letter...):
Here is a comparison shot from the last post showing newly installed open cell spray foam insulation. We are filling the stud pockets and any cured foam that sits proud of the face of the studs will be shaved down to accommodate drywall. Door and window frames, framing gaps, open pockets and any gaps will be hand filled later by hand with a can foam.
Actually we did pass. We passed the full slate of required rough inspections today for the main addition/renovation permit: framing, electrical, mechanical (HVAC) and plumbing. Considering construction started March 4th I am very excited about progress as well as the quality of the work. Spray foam insulation is scheduled to start after the holiday weekend at the same time we complete the garage power feed. Onward!
We just started a new project for a client in Winnetka that involves a garage, addition, renovation and drainage. The home sits within the 100year flood plain and has been a complicated challenge to get permitted. The site meeting today focused only on tree preservation and protective fencing- a serious aspect of building within the village.
With the roof on, shell framed and windows installed we are able to break through from the existing house to the addition. Security and air temperature are always a concern with additions and renovations so waiting keeps as much of the noise, dust and discomfort out of the home until as late as possible. An unexpected surprise was the original hardwood flooring under the old kitchen linoleum. It will finish beautifully to match the rest of the house and save some budget for other areas.
A Pile of Lumber becomes a Garage while the basement gets a very important final inspection after some incredible rains...
We are now filling in the areas around the outside of the foundations. If the area is to be finished as a walkway, driveway or patio we use pea gravel to avoid settling in the future. Soil that has been excavated can expand by as much as 30% which means you can expect quite a bit of sinkage in areas where that dirt is used as fill. It will be nice to clear out some of the mud and clean up a messy site...
Just back from an intense 4 day Round tables session in Austin, TX coordinated by Remodelers Advantage. Focused discussions on budgeting, estimating, growth, leadership and ethics with companies from all over the country. Made some new friends and strengthened some existing relationships. Thanks to Jim Strite for moderating our lively group.
