We started construction 2 weeks ago on a multi phased home in Central TX. We are starting with a simple 14x16 "cabin" that will be attached to a breezeway/porch that will be connected to either John's 20x30 1 1/2 story or the 20x34 2 story. We STILL can't decide which is truly best for us.
Here are a few pictures of what we have so far. Yes, I am the one that always seems to be relaxing in all of the pictures. My wife (who is a fantastic help with the project) always takes the pictures when I am taking a break.
(http://www.katynet.net/house/1st-wall.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house/2nd-wall.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house/front-entry.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house/front-with-osb.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house/start-of-rafters.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house/center-beam.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house/one-side-rafters.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house/end-of-day.jpg)
If you happen to see something that I did wrong, point it out. This cabin is my proof of concept. I want to build it the way I will build the house and make sure that we can do it right.
Well, even with all the breaks you take, it looks like you are moving right along. :)
(Like I should talk as I sit on my bum trying to stay dry.) :-/
Looks good.
Can't tell - are your piers just cement bricks?
It's hard to tell from the picture because I have so many extra's laying around. The building is sitting on 16x16x4 "mobile home" concrete pads with 16x8x4 concrete blocks to make it level. It's not fantastic but it appears like it will work. That's what they put mobile homes on around here. The house will be poured concrete/post to the beam.
Have any pic's of putting beam's / floor joist's in?
Let us know if you meed another pair of hands - we are not that far from you...
You could have gotten 9' sheet goods and tied the joist system and walls together by running them vertically. On a house , if you need brace wall panels (BWP) you'd need horziontal blocking at the 4' sheathing seam.
Your ridge prop , if your leaving it in place , is way overkill and would be in the way of agble vent , if , you where going to vent that way.
Other than those , which may be nick picking , it looks good. And like Glenn said to many breaks ;D
What's the 2x4 sticking out for ?? Was it temp brace ?? Sky hook ??
Keep up the good work , just more of it!
G/L PEG
Edited to add I don't see any sheet rock backing / built up inside corner on those long walls , where the two short ones meet the long ones .
A " L" type corner at minium is required .
PEG-Are u talking about a nailer stud?
"the 2x4 sticking out of the wall" I was just laughing about that with my wife. I told her it wouldn't be long before someone asked what it was. Ok, I was a scared of the dark... I stuck it up there and hung my lantern from it. We live in Houston and our property is about 45 minutes North East of Austin. We drive up on Friday nights, camp out, and work all weekend. Just like so many on here. That's what I love about this place. We enjoy it. We work during the light and then have a ncie campfire and sit around with our girls and enjoy the peace and quiet.
On the 9' sheets. We wanted to do that but we are working from "home depot and Lowes" for everything. They didn't have it. We are going to put 3/4 foam board on the outside wall before the hardi plank. This I will make 9' by cutting. It's certainly not as strong as "osb" but I figure it may help :) . For the ridge prop, I thought it should be permanent. The last time I built a roof, I didn't even think to make anything like that. I shoot myself for it now. It made the install so much easier. I will leave it in place because I am going to put in a continous ridge vent. That should provide enough air movement.
On the sheetrock backing, we are looking for the "sheetrock clips" that are in the superinsulated framing pictures on the net. If I can't find them, it's going to be fun trying to put something in there....
Oh that explains the flyer stud ;D
I've never used those clips , I can see many issues , the main one being cracked corners from some ones kids grab arse-in, cluch butt- in , skylarking and in general being good kids horse in around . BUT YMMV on that ;D
And remember you asked for comments / suggestions ;) ;D
The foam won't do &hit as far as sheer / holding things together ::)
Oh the comments are very useful. Keep them coming. I am assuming that the osb not being connected to the floor system, it would be about the same as a concrete slab floor. But, then again, I do see a lot of pretty slabs with nothing on them after bad storms. Well, I will definately connect to the floor when I do the main house. At least then I will have 12-20' walls so I can use 8' osb and not have a 1' piece at the top. Also, I just paid the lowest price I can remember for 7/16's osb, $4.97. I was floored, ok pun intended.
When you're good, you're good, PEG. What can I say. :)
If it was steel I'd know more about it. :-/
In the meantime, I'll just sit back and watch you do all the heavy lifting. ::)
QuoteWhen you're good, you're good, PEG. What can I say. :)
If it was steel I'd know more about it. :-/
In the meantime, I'll just sit back and watch you do all the heavy lifting. ::)
We all have our strong points Glenn , even you ;D
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We all have our strong points Glenn , even you ;D
I know, but people keep telling me that smell isn't everything. :o
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Also, I just paid the lowest price I can remember for 7/16's osb, $4.97. I was floored, ok pun intended.
I just noticed this , you didn't use 7/16" OSB on / for your subfloor did ya??
If so on the main house I'd recomend 3/4" T&G EDGEGOLD (a brand of subflooring made out of OSB).
And Glenn I'd been meaning to mention that smell , it's burning my eyes ;D
OSB up here is $7.00 and change, you Texan's are gettin a deal. Someone will now point out GWB has some collusion in the whole mess.
osb for floor, NOOOOO..... I used 3/4" T&G Plywood for the floor. I wanted to do everything to make it not squeek. But, I bought construction adhesive but it was all dried when I tried to apply it. I guess they need a freshness date on them. Oh well. On the house, I will use construction adhesive, period. I am thinking about doubling the 3/4" T&G on the house. Just for the extra stiffness.
They sell a 5/4 " T&G ply you might want to check out. DBLing the 3/4 might result in more squeaks if you had any mis bonding , (((I assume IF you dbled up the ply you would glue it together, )) between the two layers.
The 5/4 (full inch) ply is heavy as heck but it is hell fer stout!!! :) :) We use it , generally, on a 19.2 "I" joist layout.
Might be TMI , eh! (To Much Info) But you could cost out the 5/4 ply and see better but $$ what best for your project.
Feel free to ask more spacfic questions if I've confused you.
G/L PEG
Excuse my ignorance, but what do you use the adhesive for?
supposedly between the floor joists and the plywood. It keeps the wood to wood contact at a minimum which decreases SQUEEEK... as far as I have read.
That is exactly why Phalynx!!
Are there other critical point to use the adhesive, ie sheathing etc?
Also- I noticed you used Styrofoam under the sole plate - I presume that's to seal the gap under it which is created by the flooring not being flush with the joist?
I am trying to be as anal as possible in the insulation of this place. I would love to not have to heat or cool much. I am following directions for superinsulation on everything I can read. Putting many methods together in some cases. I will be putting 3/4" foam board on the outside as well as using R-19 in the walls. Hoping to get about R-23 or better. I am trying to figure out how best to insulate the underneath. My wife, being small, has volunteered to crawl under there and put in the insulation. I have 2x8's in there at 16" o/c. The best insulation I can find so far is just r-19. It would leave a gap as it is designed for 2x6 walls. I also would like a few tips to seal the bottom. I assuming that a black poly should be put on the bottom after the insulation to seal it. I don't know how to apply the poly. just staples would allow critters to enter... I was thinking about spray adhesive in addition to staples.
It appears speedfunk put some styrofoam in between the floor joists and poly underneath his flooring:
http://www.countryplans.com/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1165954820/0#0
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#1: Are there other critical point to use the adhesive, ie sheathing etc?
#2: Also- I noticed you used Styrofoam under the sole plate - I presume that's to seal the gap under it which is created by the flooring not being flush with the joist?
#1: I know of only one builder that glues his sheathing on, it is way over the top over kill IMO, and if and when anyone remodels his homes they will have a added PITA cutting all that glue free . Some unsuspecting builder will loose money on that / those jobs then they take place.
#2: I'd also say that foam under the walls is overkill , it is generally used between the concrete and the PT True "sole plate" . In this instance the plates we see are really just bottom plates , IMO / interpation.
He will MTL also be caulking the joint between the bottom plate and the subfloor connection.
phalynx has said he is following and in some case's combining super insulated building ideas , he may create more problems doing that , but hey it's his money.
I am not big supporter of all super insulated building practices / ideas. They can create a unhealthly house , they can cause issues to vast to predict/ illumate on here.
I'd rather have seen a better post and pier / footing setup on his place , but that's been addressed in a earlier post by some one else.
A good proper footing / base is way more important than saving $5.00 a year on heating cost, IMO. For what that worth :-[
All in all it looks like a good job and he is doing what he thinks is best for him and his place .
Quote I also would like a few tips to seal the bottom. I assuming that a [highlight]black poly should be put on the bottom after the insulation to seal it.[/highlight] I don't know how to apply the poly. just staples would allow critters to enter... I was thinking about spray adhesive in addition to staples.
No don't do it , it will trap the moisture trying to get out , use Typar , Tyvek , or a lesser (ie lumber yard stamped off brand) [highlight]breathable[/highlight] wrap.
QuoteQuote I also would like a few tips to seal the bottom. I assuming that a [highlight]black poly should be put on the bottom after the insulation to seal it.[/highlight] I don't know how to apply the poly. just staples would allow critters to enter... I was thinking about spray adhesive in addition to staples.
No don't do it , it will trap the moisture trying to get out , use Typar , Tyvek , or a lesser (ie lumber yard stamped off brand) [highlight]breathable[/highlight] wrap.
Interesting, I thought that Tyvek ad such deterorate when exposed to the outside? I certainly see your point. I know mobile homes use some form of woven fabric under the homes. It may be for the very thing you are talking about.
As for the pier setup on the cabin, I have left the option to place it on a perm foundation later. It is small enough to be jacked up and put on a more perm foundation. We may also move it. We may hate where we have it right now. The more that people say something stinks, the more apt I am to change it. I certainly know very little in the grand scheme of things and am learning from all of you everyday. I just want to know why so that I can eventually answer my own questions before I act on them.
As for the foam under the sole plate. It's 1/8" foam and I was trying to mitigate the air loss in the small voids of imperfect wood. It may not help much or it may work great. I dunno, but it was only 6.00 worth.. ;)
But again, I am not trying to be defensive on my methods, just trying to explain why I "thought" I should. And, .... it's the small one. I hope to have all of these issues worked out before I start the big one.
The sun is what eat's it up , mostly , the sun / UV breaks it down so the wind and rain can beat it up. Not much sun under a house , and MTL you'll end up with some type of skirting around the place anyway. If just to cut down on wind blown crap gathering under it. It will keep the bigger critters , coon , possum etc out. But again sun is the major building wrap enemy.
As far as other comments I'm just givin it to you as I see it , based on some years of building experience. It is very hard to do that and not point out some questionable things that get posted . Glenn road me hard right outta the gate so I do try to be nice , supportive , etc . But again we are typing at each other and words are just words , the smilies help , IF people see them ;) We do kid around a bit , but mostly facts are facts , so no offence intended :)
Like I said your doing whatyou think is right and the foam is no big deal either way , we seldom use it , unless , we are building on slab on grade , then you want all you can to stop that air infiltration under the plates. Wood to wood the caulking will do the job and in a vented crawl space why bother your purposefully venting the space so I figger why try to seal up a vented space , the spiders , sow bugs , snails , ants etc are going to get in anyway. It's the bigger critters you need to keep out.
So again nice job 8-) Keep it up :)
PEG
the little critters are exactly what I want to keep out. I can do the tyvek. It's costly but it is supposed to be terrific at what it does. I just can't seem to tear it ;)
I really just want to get my house so "reasonably" insulated and sealed that I won't have to spend oodles of dollars on electricity cooling the place. I hate electricity. But, I live in TX so I have to love paying for a/c or end up like everyone before a/c, dead. ;) Seriously, I want to cool the house with the smallest reasonable a/c unit and try to save the most money possible in the process. I would LOVE to be off grid, but until the price of solar comes down, it just won't happen for me. 30 year payout on a 30 year product in TX doesn't work for me.
Here is a picture of the work we did this weekend. We have the cabin dried in. We learned that we get in a hurry and make mistakes. Like the wonderful one on the front with the siding that was measured at 2 different points. I learned I don't know how to do facia boards on a roof or construct eves properly. All in all, we go a lot done, but we learned quite a bit from some mistakes. We decided not to put the foam baord on the outside sheathing for extra insulation. After careful thought, we determined we didn't have a clue how we would trim windows, etc. This bothers me. I am afraid that I wil be doing it wrong. I have a great book, one that John reccommended and it doesn't have my scenerio in it. So I will have to get more information.
The french doors were interesting. I got the frame of the doors level and plumb and it was out of whack. I don't get it. I played with it until it looked like it worked well and then mounted it. It works but I don't know why. I am up for suggestions on what we have done. Also, do I extend the tyvek to the attic side of the gable ends?
(http://www.katynet.net/house/moresiding.jpg)
Everyone THINKS it easy , till they have to do it / prove it. ;D
Generally the siding courses/ bottoms should line up around the corners , maybe that's the 2" you where refering to :(
So anyway like you said your learning right?? On french doors like those I generally set the sill flat on the floor as you have done , then I plumb up the active door side jamb, you can use the door as a place to plumb , but with dbl. doors working alone I'd recommend removing the doors from the jamb first , set the jamb alone in the opening , split the difference / center the jamb in the RO, shim behind the lower hinge , then plumb in the jamb active side first , shim behind the upper hnge , then check the other jamb side , it should be close , shim behind both upper and lower hinges , then rehang the doors .
Now you can tweak the gaps / margins around the doors , hopefully the walls are close to plumb , not a lot you can do IF the framer , you in this case screwed the pooch, yes on a remodel I have / can plumb the jamb both ways , then cut a wedge shaped shim / jamb extention to take up that difference , hopefully your not that far off.
So with your doors rehung you can now set those gaps , shooting for 1/8" clearance all around , do this by putting 3" screws into the inner two or at least in one of the inner screw holes , throw away the short screw you may have had to remove , some doors come with long screws taped / stapled to the jamb for this use , I tend to not use those as they tend to snap off , they are cheap screws , I use grabber brand screws but thats another storey.
You'll be able to move the door around by loosing or tightening the screws , you will need to adjust the shims you put in earlier as you tweak. The level or it's use is at this point useless , you are in a small ball park now and the tweaking is more important than dead nuts plumb.
A single door is less trouble , so hey you've tackled ALMOST the worst type of door to hang . a triple french with a active center door is about the worst as you have so much jamb to move slack in the hinges , etc etc that it is a issue to get those gaps / margins just so.
Yes you do want to paper the lil gable end , lap your paper so any water that gets past your caulking / and siding would in thorey drain down the wall on top of the paper, So ALWAYS overlap the upper paper to drain on to the lower , not behind it. Think like rain , make it go where you want it , out / on top and to the bottom and out away from the building, Same thing on the roof think like rain and "see it flowing out / onto / to daylight " not leading it into / under the roofing and felt .
Hope this helps , good luck and think about all you learned :) not so much about what went wrong , but how you'll adjust and prevent other issues .
G/L PEG ;)
BTW you might consider making your photos a bit smaller , if your using photo bucket select the size for forums , I sort of think PB does that automaticlly so maybe your using another host site.
Not a whole lot of progress from this past weekend. We did some other work around trying to prepare to bring power in. I really wanted to put a solar setup in but it was going to be rather large investment to grow and the a/c is the biggest problem to cope with. So, for about 4k, I can have power brought in. We did the eaves and the siding on the sides. Put in the back window and the only thing we have left outside is the gable ends and paint.
(http://www.katynet.net/house/90percentoutside.jpg)
$4K is cheaper than a lot of places.
How far did you have to bring power from?
I have about 750 feet of trees like the picture to bring it in. I am going to have to clear it myself or the price doubles.
Ok, we're back. Sorry to all who were interested in this project. I received several emails about it. We got detoured. Between work and life, we just couldn't take it anymore. I quit my job and we bought an RV and toured the country for a bit. It was a lot of fun but not entirely what we wanted. But,,, by trimming down everything we owned to fit into an RV, it was very easy to justify a small house. No longer will be have to worry about if it's enough room. The other positive is, we now have our RV ON the property (we have settled down) and are living in it while we build.
We have done a lot of work in the past few weeks. Spent a ton of money (which I hate). But, we now have power, water, and a driveway. We also now have a toy, I mean tool. We needed a tractor to maintain the property. This time I bought a little bigger and more powerful. This has been a life saver. We have been doing a lot of clearing with it.
So, our story continues with today, we rent the ditchwitch to dig the trench for the waterline to the back and dig the 18" holes for the foundation piers. We will probably have much of the foundation platform done this week (I hope). Next week, I start back to work so things will slow down a bit after that. Plus, we are building the entire project out of cash, so we are at the mercy of timing......
I'll keep you posted on our progress and upload some new pictures soon.
Sounds good - we'll be looking forward to updates. :)
Well, here are some updated pictures. We finally got water and electricity out here. I ran power to the cabin so we can setup a mini kitchen in there. Dug the holes 24" diameter and 4' deep. Put concrete footing at the bottom of the holes and then built up the post and beams. the beams are 3-2x12's and 2- 1/2" plywood as instructed on John's plans. The house is 20x34. We then built up the floor joists and put on the T&G plywood. I will now go back and put in the 45 degree cross braces on corner posts and a couple in the middle to shore up the posts a bit more. All and all, I am pleased with the progress we have made and now I get the start the fun part. I love framing!!!
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/post-holes.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/post-and-beam.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/floor1.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/floor2.jpg)
Great job -- and it only took a few seconds..to load on my computer --- I bet the work took longer though.
Here are a few updated pictures showing our progress. Those 14' 2x6 walls were a real challenge to raise with just my wife and myself +tractor. Wife even took a small spill when the wall slipped back when raising it. Bruised her arm pretty good and we thought she had a broken leg but it turned out to just be a bruised bone.. Thank goodness.
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/frontwall1.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/inside1.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/outsidewalls1.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/outsidewalls2.jpg)
Looks like you're making good progress. :)
Looking Good. But with a dog that size you could have used it instead of the tractor. rofl. I would be lost without my tractor. I have really given it a work out the past 3-4 years with the house renovation and the cabin construction. My back feels alot better in the evening when I use it.
Ha,, I just looked at that picture. MY dog looks much bigger in that picture than in real life. He's only 65 lbs and he won't do much work unless it's 30 degrees or colder.. :(
Here are some pictures from this weekend. Lots more to do but we are please with our progress. I did manage to figure out how to get the sheets of plywood up to the 2nd floor using the tractor as you can see in the picture.. what a back saver
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/secondfloor1.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/secondfloor2.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/secondfloor3.jpg)
(http://www.katynet.net/house1/firstfloor1.jpg)
introduced spration space between pictures for easier viewing... MD
Moving right along. :D I bet that tractor comes in handy.
The upstairs is such a great space up in the tree tops.
Looks like you had a very productive weekend.
Keep showing those pictures. Fun to watch your progress.
Christina
Made a little more progress this weekend. OSB 18+ feet in the air is a scary affair...... We got osb around most of the house. We built stairs to the 2nd floor (neccessary to safely allow our girls, 6 and 10, to help). Cut out all the windows on the 1st floor.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house/DSC_6735.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house/DSC_6734.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house/DSC_6737.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house/DSC_6718.jpg)
We have started putting our pics on our website.
http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/thumbnails.php?album=20 (http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/thumbnails.php?album=20)
We haven't been rushing to get the roof on our place. I am assuming it's because it's such a challenge. How long is too long without a roof on for the construction process?
That really depends I guess on the amount of rainfall or other percipitation to saturate the OSB. That why I went with Advantex. Mine went all summer and partly into the snow season and it held up well.
It's done nothing but light rain all week. Really stinks.
cute kids! :)
OSB floor was marginal after about 6 months rain w/draining and drilled holes in water puddles in the floor on an apartment complex I worked on. The OSB was swelling like crazy. It does not return to size.
Is your floor plywood? - looks like it in some of the pix.
Floor is Plywood. Sides are OSB. The top edge of the osb is swelling. Fortunately, I get to cut that part off. Tomorrow, I start to tackle the rafters... We'll see how that goes... aweful high up.
Sassy, thanks!, they clearly take after their mother....
We were only able to work 1 day this weekend so we tried to get a lot done. Didn't work out that way. We got about 1/2 of the roof framed and 1 sidewall framed. We were able to install a window and a door. I guess we just got excited and wanted to see it :) .
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house2/DSC_6746.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house2/DSC_6754.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house2/DSC_6749.jpg)
I hope to get some more of the rafters cut this week. It stinks coming home from work when it's dark outside.
Looks good. Seems the plywood should hold up better on the floor too.
It may not always seem like it to you but your progress is quite extraordinary!
You're going to have a nice looking house. And all will dry out... ;)
Once you get a water tight roof the pressure will ease considerably. Looking good.
Got quite a bit done this weekend. My brother and his kids came out to help. Can't ask for anything better than that. We separated into groups and accomplished our tasks. The steel roofing shows up on Tuesday. Here are some pictures
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house%20feb3/DSC_6795.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house%20feb3/DSC_6789.jpg)
Of course, we were sitting down when pictures were taken..
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house%20feb3/DSC_6775.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house%20feb3/DSC_6782.jpg)
Built the front porch.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/house%20feb3/DSC_6797.jpg)
Looking great! :D You're on a roll.
Where in Texas are you? Also, is your home the 1 and 1/2 story, 20 by 34? Or the 2 story? We have been debating which one to go with. Really great work in a beautiful wooded area.
We are 45 miles ENE of Austin, TX. Our home is the 1 1/2 story, modified. We extended the home 4' after seeing the benefits of the Michigan home in this forum. We bought the 1 1/2 story plans and the 2 story plans. Both are very well done. Ultimately, the 1 1/2 story won because of the look it gave and how well it works with porches. We also modified the 1 1/2 story with 9' ceilings on the 1st floor and 4 1/2' 2nd floor walls. We also ended up with a 10/12 roof pitch as the 12/12 scared me too much.. :)
We are in Malakoff, close to Cedar Creek Lake, which is between Corsicana and Athens. Your area looks very much like it does around here, mostly oaks, not many pine trees until you go further east. What is your soil like there? How did you choose which foundation to go with? We have only been in this area less than 2 years, but what seems strange to me is that everything that is being build around here is seemingly right on ground level. Our house NW of Fort Worth had to be 8 inches above. Around here: One foot deep footing with a 4 inch slab, from our observations of four houses being built in our area, 3 of which are very expensive homes right on Cedar Creek Lake. I haven't talked to a foundation professional as of yet however. I really do love the modification you have made. Your pictures are great in that it allows one to really see the size of the rooms, especially upstaires. You floor plan is very nice, too. I know people are always asking this question, so I will, too. What are you cost projections? Thanks for your reply.
What is your soil like there? It's sandy loam. On the top there is "sugar sand" and then some thicker dirt mixed here and there. About 12-24" down, it goes to red clay.
How did you choose which foundation to go with? Lots of discussion on that one. I asked quite a few questions like others. I have poured concrete on a shop project at my former house. Concrete is TOUGH work. It's also getting expensive. Ultimately, price and availability proved to make a post and beam construction the best choice for us. We would have had to put in a "real driveway" to get concrete trucks back here. With the post and beam, we can do all the work ourselves.
One foot deep footing with a 4 inch slab, from our observations of four houses being built in our area, 3 of which are very expensive homes right on Cedar Creek Lake. Very typical in that area. Monolithic slabs are simple for professionals and quite stable. They just cost a bit... It would have been $5500-6500 for a slab for us.
I really do love the modification you have made. Thanks, this plan was our (k) plan. We nixed and modified a-j to create k.
What are you cost projections? We were hoping the whole project will come just under $20.00. Unfortunately, that was only a few 2x6's so we had to be a little more realistic. Right now, my wife is trying to figure out the total costs to date. I am estimating 12-15k to date with all of the materials we have paid for. Really, we have another 2k in siding and then we'll be completely dried in. I suspect 15-17K but I'll update that number with details shortly.
This forum has been invaluable for building our home. I would NOT have been able to successfully get as far as we have without them. There are so many helpful people on here with so much knowledge, it's amazing. John's plans are great, the support he and others provide are great. The do it yourself part is great. We hurt at the end of the day but I can assure you, the pain goes away when we just sit back and look at what we have done. In reality, it's just my wife and I building it. My brother and his family helping were fantastic and made a nice dent in the work. But, it's basically a 2 person job. If we can do it, anyone can.
Thanks so much for your info. Cute kids, BTW. I teach 6th grade, I really like the "tween" age kids. I agree that this site is wonderful, so many helpful people and experiences. I will definately keep up with your site.
Thanks
Ok, I guess I am no good at math. Here are the actual costs:
concrete/rebar 180
post/beams 610
metal strapping 112
1st floor subfloor 1500
outside wall framing 720
rafters, stairs, 2nd floor subfloor, sheathing 2046
windows/ tyvek 1188
purlins/interior walls, siding trim, ceiling joists 1525
front deck 760
doors/locks 700
metal roofing 1669
total 11010
need 4 more windows @ 130ea, more trim, and then siding @ 1700. We'll be dried in then.
Thanks for the pricing info. Always lots of interest in that. Numbers are hard to get ...unless your name is Don. :)
We installed some tyvek and windows last night. Here are some updated pics.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb4/DSC_6802.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb4/DSC_6809.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb4/DSC_6807.jpg)
I have NO idea how I am going to attach the tyvek to the 2nd floor. That is not something I am looking forward to.
That's looking great.
I know how exciting it is to get so close to being dried in. Keep the pictures coming.
Is the whole downstairs going to remain open?
Christina
We have gone back and forth about leaving it open. Since this will be the place that we live in until we're old, I don't want to climb stairs to the 2nd floor to go to bed. So, alas, we will have a small master bedroom downstairs.
In the view with the stairs, you can see the 2x4's laid out on the floor. This is basically the bedroom, closet/hall, and master bathroom. The rest will all be open.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/normal_porch3.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/normal_porch4.jpg)
Here are some small pictures of the floorplan.
BTW, we keeping looking at all your pictures. The details inyour home are amazing and inspiring...... (staring at a blank piece of wood right now.. ;) )
I like the floorplan you have come up with here. Lot's of usable space.
John
Keep up the great work. It surely is an inspiration. [cool]
We had a somewhat productive week. Installed stairs on the front deck. We can now get up and down everywhere without ladders!!!! whoohoo. Also started construction of the fireplace. We also got about 1/2 the roof up. This has proven, by far to be the biggest challenge yet. We are going to have to rent scaffolding to finish this. I hope I can get a deal on a 1 month rental.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb10/DSC_6826.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb10/DSC_6817.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb10/DSC_6828.jpg)
Wow looking good! Your right there are some tall walls for a cabin to deal with. It is more like my home I live in. I see a lot of pulled mussles hanging those sheets of plywood and not done on windy days!! The way you are doing your tin is the way to go. Completeing one sheet at a time from inside the ceiling. I would hate to go up and screw off that roof later as steep/high it sits in the air. Having fell once off a roof I know I would be tied off doing it. Just a thought you might want to install a ladder right on the roof to get to the chimney stack for cleaning it later. I had a problem on my roof doing it so I used a aluimin ladder bolted into the roof but spaced up for snow melt reasons. It sure is nice to go up on the roof now just steping out the second floor window and climing a perminet ladder to the stack! I heat only with wood in my home so if it clogs up in the winter I have to get up there even if the snow is on the metal. At first the ladder bugged me but now it is just part of the building. I also have a 3/8" ring to tie off on bolted into the roof. My stack is in the middle of the side with a porch overhang below so it is hard to get a ladder right off the ground. Mark
Well, what a pain in the neck week. Lots of rain. We installed scaffolding on Tuesday evening on the back wall (had to learn how). Then it pretty much was not cooperative with weather until Sunday morning. Saturday was thunderstorms like crazy. So, of course, I sat in my house on the top floor under the 1 side that has a roof to determine it's loudness. I was very pleased with the noise level. I can only assume it was due to the gauge of metal (24) that made it quieter than I expected. Since the weather was bad on Saturday, the neighbor to was helping with the roof was unable to make it out. We didn't make any progress on the roof. We did get the OSB up to the roofline on the back wall, get some tyvek up and then do some siding. Here are a couple of pics.
(http://ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb17/DSC_6839.jpg)
Had some visitors come running through our land
(http://ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb17/DSC_6837.jpg)
phalynx what type of siding are you using? Is it Hardy board? The weather can really play havoc on your construction but once you have a roof overhead and dried in it doesn't play that much of a factor. Work inside on bad days and outside on the good ones.
it's Hardeplank. It's the 12" wide Cedarmill Select. 1/3" thick. I am not sure if I have a bad batch or if it's the way it works, but I am having an interesting time with the siding splitting it's layers. It looks like it's 3 equal layers thick and I see it splitting/separating a lot. I don't recall this happening with my little cabin. I'm sure it won't be a problem.
Also, I never understood why Asbestos is not allowed, but this stuff is. Right on the label it says, can cause cancer... nice.
Looks like you're making good progress. I usualy don't question other peoples motives but I'm a little concerned. Shouldn't you have some kind of bracing on your foundation posts? I don't think I ever saw one done like yours. Are you relying on the depth of the post in the ground to keep it from shearing? Just wondering.
It's no problem questioning. It's reasonable. The answer is yes. I have them, just haven't installed them yet. They are 6x6's at 45 degree angles. I put one on and it can be seen in a couple of the pictures. I will have 9 more going on. I guess I am in a hurry to get the place dried in.
Phalynx,
Awesome job so far. Aspiring owner-builders like myself appreciate the detail and pictures you've gone into.
Maybe I scanned over it, but roughly what did it cost to make the shed altogether? I'm thinking of building that first so I can put solar panels up on it since I plan on being off-grid completely and will need a power source. ( dont worry I have the solar array all set , 390 watts, 320 amp hrs on a pure sine wave inverter running on a morningstar TS-45 )
Thanks,
Bishop
If I recall, the little cabin was just over 5K finished.
We had a good weekend. Got the entire roof on!!! yea!!,,, celebration time... Put some more siding up. That is slow going for sure. I thought it would be faster, but oh well. Built a deck for the hot tub that arrives tomorrow. Ran electrical for the hot tub.
Here are some pics.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb24/DSC_6845.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb24/DSC_6844.jpg)
Watch that first step out the back door.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/feb24/DSC_6852.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_6856.jpg)
phalynx in the dry I see. As for the high doorway. If that is the Hot tub platform not far from there you would always put in a diving board from the door. ;D
Looking good! I'm going to put in a hot tub too but not till the house is done. I guess you can go soak at the end of a long hard day. Good plan. :D How high is that scafold? 30'?
How are you planning to enclosed the crawl space? Do you think you will have problems with pipes freezing with the occasional freezing weather we have here in TX? Great progress, BTW. Thanks for the cost info you posted earlier.
Also, are you using forced air HVAC? If so, how are you doing the duct work?
Thanks
Diving BOARD!!!! --- wife said no... :(
Hot tub, yeah, we were going to wait until after we were done, but my back has altered that plan. Soak away the problem IS the plan.. :)
Scaffold looks like it's 30', feels like it's 30', but is actually only 20' :(
As for the underneath, we have decided that we will build a small wall and continue the siding below the house. It may look funny, but I think it won't be so bad when we get the porches around.
HVAC will be forced air. It will actually go up next to the stairs. We will run a main vent up through a small "tube" wall to the ceiling and then split up stairs in the attic to the rooms. Downstairs, we will build an 8' ceiling in the hallway from the master bedroom and kitchen and vent to those rooms that way.
Ok, got what we intended to get done, done. We have 1 side exterior side complete. Sided, painted, etc. We really want the "old farm house" feel, and chose a faded yellow color for the house and white for the trim. We are VERY please with the outcome. It doesn't show well in this picture as it's an overcast day. It's a little yellower than shown. We also got the scaffolding over to the other side of the house and have put the rest of the osb, tyvek, and windows on that side. Overall, it was a productive weekend. I can't believe I never purchased a good paint sprayer before. What a DREAM it was. Painted the wall in about 30 minutes.. (after prep work)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/mar2/DSC_6862.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/mar2/DSC_6872.jpg)
phalynx looking good. No more rainy day excuses now. Nice outside then thats where we work. Bad outside we just move to the inside. I wanted to ask if you have any plans for an emergency egress to the 2nd floor other than the stairs within the house. I didn't with mine but my windows in the loft area are only about 9' off the ground.
REdoverfarm, That's a good point. I hadn't given it much thought yet. I will probably buy one of those roll up emergency ladders and train the girls how to use it only in a fire and not when boys come around... :( I'll probably put some kind of alarm on it :)
Ultimately, we may have another solution depending on the wrap around porch idea. Could be the best slide on the planet. Of course, that last step would be a big one.
Looks really nice, Phalynx! I like the yellow with white trim - that is the outside color of our house in the valley...
Now that it's daytime, I snapped a pic of the 1 side we are working on now.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/scaffold1.jpg)
We weren't able to get much done this weekend. My grandfather passed away and the funeral was today. My grandfather is one of the few people who can pull us away from our project. A lot of the "drive" and the willingness to tackle any project comes from him. We did, however, manage to build the chimney up all the way and get most of the tyvek on it before the rain started.
Here is the only pic of value. Next week, we should be able to side the entire wall ad possibly paint it.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_6925a.jpg)
Sorry to hear of your loss, phalynx. Progress looks good.
Got a good weekend's worth of work. With daylight savings it really helps. We completed the siding on the chimney side and started more work on the front. We are really getting the hang of the siding. Here are a couple of pictures of the progress.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/mar16/DSC_6942.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/mar16/DSC_6947.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/mar16/DSC_6949.jpg)
Looking good in Texas! Even got ya a couple of models to spice up the pics I see. Really starting to look like something. [cool]
Looking better each time I seee it. But you had better put a hammer and saw in the model hands. Start them off right. ;D
The models are on "material transportation duties" for now. They have been watching everything we do. The real winner of the "learn new things" category is my wife. She's becoming quite the pro on the "big boy toys tools". She womans the Dewalt cutoff saw full time now. What a time saver to just yell out the measurements and get a piece delivered!!! :) The cool thing is, I can yell it in english! :)
QuoteThe models are on "material transportation duties" for now.
Back when I was a kid it was called a "gofetchit".
Around here it is"gofor". Go for this and that.
"gofer" that's usually what my job is... ;) & the "cleanup crew" :-\ but just anything that will expedite the building process, if I can do it, I'll do c*
Your place is looking wonderful phalynx!
Looking downright "Homey"
Your place looks great... looking forward to seeing the inside!!
Made reasonable progress this weekend. We intended to get the chimney side painted and get the siding on the back side of the house. Due to the fact that I didn't clean the spray tip on the sprayer as well as I should have, I had a little paint fiasco that resulted in a trip back to Home Depot for another tip and some brushes. And since it's not possible to go to Home Depot without spending several hours and several hundred dollars, we did that this morning as well as a little Easter egg hunt. But we'll be working more this week.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_6971.jpg)
phalynx If you get into a hurry after painting just keep a plastic coffee can or butter dish with a lid around. Just pop the detachable parts in the solivent or water and clean them later. Depending on whether you use oil or water based just use the applicable solivent. Pop the lid on and clean them when you get back to it. Although I usually try to clean when I am done I still drop them in the can afterwards until I use them again if it's short term.
...or just put a plastic bag around them.
We've been working a little every night on some interior walls. The girls got their rooms framed. We have the kitchen wall up and the pantry, etc..
(//www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_6983.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_6981.jpg)
Here is an image of what the kitchen should look like.. I hope.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/kitchen1.jpg)
Hum. I would finish the kitchen first. ;D Good job. Is everything going together as planned?
Going together as planned... hum... :) I am my own worst problem... I don't seem to think 7-8 steps ahead sometimes. I moved that kitchen wall in 6" one day because we decided that the closet wasn't going to be big enough and I wanted to have the 6" in the length of the bedroom since I was losing it in the width. Problem was, the window was to be 36" from the dividing wall in the kitchen. By moving the wall, it's now 32". That destroyed the cabinet plan. I had to redo it. Also, the table that we pulled from storage was much bigger than I remember... as you can see in the picture. So, the large utility room by the stairs had to be shrunk a lot so we could walk by the table to our bedroom. Lot's of little changes on the fly that change the big picture. Ultimately, they haven't been major issues. Working with everyone on here sure makes working through issues less stressful. I have never met a more useful and helpful group of people. Hat's off to all here.
We got the siding on the back of the house this weekend. I have monday and tuesday off so we hope to get the front finished and both sides painted. I can't wait to move to 100% inside work!
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7000.jpg)
Looking like a real house. Great, Scott!
Back complete.... working on front now.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7007.jpg)
WEEEEEEEE!!!! Outside is complete!!!! We have a SHELL!! Of course there are still some things to do like build the porch on the front. Build entire porch and deck on the back. But hey,,, that's just a "home improvement project". :) Here are some pics of the finished exterior.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7016.jpg)
Through the trees
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7015.jpg)
More.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7012.jpg)
Looks good Scott. Looks like you are off the scaffolding now but maybe not. Are you going to cut in the flue? I assume there is a roof over the front deck.
Redover...... you are correct sir. There is 1 more project that requires the scaffolding. That's for this weekend. But,,, that's my 1 problem. I need to cut in the flue. I have NO clue what to do there. Right now, there is a false roof over this chimney. The dimensions are approximately 30" x 30". I need some input on how to properly dress/seal/build the top. I figure I can go to Home Depot and get a chimney top. But what typically is the roof material? It seems like it's usually mortar but I would guess that's brick. I tried looking online and didn't see too much info on how to dress it. Input?
On the front deck, the roofing for that will be here thursday maybe. I can do that over time.
phalynx I am sort of in the dark on part of it as it pertains to box flue's as all I have ever done has been mason flue's. I would assume you have tripple wall pipe. I can tell you that I believe you will have to extend the box constuction at least 18" above you ridge. Then allow your tripple wall and vent cap to protrude at least 12"-18" above your flue cap. Most of the time it is recommened that the top of your flue be 2' above the ridge. I am not sure whether you can go with a poured cap on top of your boxing or whether there is a special cap for box flues. It is no problem to build a poured cap but you will have to configure a catch screen/plate for your concrete as your flue is probably hollow. I would build cleats on the inside and use a piece of PT ply. Then build a frame 2"-3" tall with at least 1-1 1/2" overhang. Just above the plywood base insert rebar through the frame work to support another a grid configuration of rebar that will lay on top of the rebar ( ideally located @ 1/2 thickness of your cap and with each piece 1/2" shy of the cap framing)that you have embeded in your framing. This will allow it to be held even if the plywood would later give way the formed comcrete will stay in place. The concrete poured in your form will surround both layers of rebar and unifiy it all. If a poured cap is permissible then work the concrete to create a high center so water will not stand on top. Remeber to take your trowel and drag the edges and tap on your form board to get a smooth edge.
Then you would flash the flue to the roof sheeting with regular roof flashing. In your case that would mean removing the shingles, sheeting(just to allow your framing to pass through) and re-shingle with the flashing. Always remember to allow the upper pieces of flashing to lap over the lower flashing which will dump the water out onto the last shingle that is not flashed. Without going back to your picture I think it was in the center of the wall and ridge which means you will have to flash both sides of the flue in the same manner.
On the lower corners you will need to flash the bottom of the flue first and try to configure the flashing in a 90 degree turn up pitch first. Then let the first piece of flashing on the down hill side to lap over and around that piece. If you don't the water will come down along the flue and slip into your roof system. Then just work your way up the toward the peak. I know it sounds a little daunting but just think water and how it will come down the roof along the edge of the flue and how to prevent it. Most flashing comes in pre-bent and pre-cut pieces. Half covers the roof nd the other goes up along the side of your flue.
I hope this is helpful. I know what to do it is just hard to put it in words to someone else. Maybe someone else has a better mousetrap. Like I said most of mine has been masoned. The flashing is no different in either case but the flue cap might be.
Sorry for the length. Don will smack my hands.
Quote from: Redoverfarm on April 01, 2008, 10:37:11 PM
Sorry for the length. Don will smack my hands.
Hey, you used paragraphs. :) I couldn't possibly say anything about a post with paras. Paras make all the difference in longer posts.
With wide screen monitors those long lines can get a little hard to follow with older eyes. :(
My plans were to run the double wall flue pipe up beyond the box to 2' over the roof. The biggest thing is we weren't planning on putting in the actual fireplace until the fall. We'd rather use the money for things like,,,, toilets, tubs, etc.. :) I just wanted to get the top all done. That may not be the best method.
Did a little this weekend. Completed the room framing upstairs and did about 1/2 the wiring upstairs too. Then mostly we cleaned up the tree mess we made when we had to pull electricity to the middle of the property. We had about 15 large oak trees sitting in the front of the property that needed to be cut up.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7031a.jpg)
Been slow going here for several weeks. Pollen has hit us and we have been down for almost 2 weeks of Sinus horror.
We managed to get some work done this weekend on the plumbing. Got the water heater installed. My first pipe sweating took place. I didn't think it was too hard at all. Of course, we'll see when I put some water pressure on it.. :)
We also started running some of the PEX for the service upstairs. Built a few more walls, etc...
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7209.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7208.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7206.jpg)
PEX is fun, huh? Probably the favorite part of my addition build.
-f-
It's nice and fast. I got the expander tool. It's almost too quick... Takes the challenge out of it.
You must not get too much cold weather there since all of your supply lines to the heater are exposed to the elements.
We don't get much, but they would freeze. I have to figure out how to best insulate them. I may build a wood box to insulate them.
Did a little work this weekend. Learning plumbing still. Did more PEX and started the waste plumbing.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7213.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7214.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7215.jpg)
Farm Fresh eggs,,,, to be delivered soon!
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7216.jpg)
Moving right along Phalynx, lookin good! Glenn put the foam rubber wraps (don't know the official name) around our hot water lines - they're slit down one side & just go over the lines - fast & easy to do.
That piping looks so much easier than copper! Cheaper too, I expect. My builder buddies are saying they are saving every scrape of copper wire now and selling it back for the metal.
Thieves will likely be stripping out a lot of wire before buildings - houses etc are complete. Heard of one recently already as well as all welders, welding leads and tool boxes stolen off a job in Sacramento. Not mine.
Phalynx,
Your house looks GREAT. Is your siding pale yellow with white trim? I can't tell if it is, or if it just not painted yet.
I'm really looking forward to seeing more interior photos as you progress ;D
AAA, Thanks for the kind words. The house is a pale yellow (Daybreak yellow) with white trim. We think it gives us that country look that we were looking for. As for the interior, pictures will be coming as we progress. We tend to do a lot of things out of order to get to our goal of moving in and getting rid of our camper that we are living in. We hope to have electric hooked up and water hooked up this coming weekend which would do wonders for being able to get in the house. It's amazing, it's been in the 90's during the day and 2 10k btu window units keep the place very comfortable. There isn't any insulation in yet either. We did buy some for the roof today though.. We may put that in over the next couple of evenings.
We did a little work this weekend. Mostly spent Saturday at Home Depot getting some needed supplies. Tubs, toilets, sinks, etc. The rest of the plumbing, $1000.00 worth of 2/0 wire to run from the main panel (GOOD LORD!). Copper wasn't at it's current price when we did our budget. Bought insulation to do the roof and attic and a 2nd window unit so we can have cool air upstairs. Glued up our waste plumbing. Finished installing the breaking box. Tiled the upstairs bathroom and installed the toilet. Dry fitted the tub and cabinet/sink.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7229.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7230.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7233.jpg)
Love the yellow and white color combination. Very fresh and traditional, great choice. Did you purchase the siding prefinished in that color? We used the same siding, only in a prefinished cedar stain. We also have it on our main house "in the city". It was prefinshed in a khaki color, We love the low maintenance and look of it. Thanks for the interior update.
Godspeed on the interior, there is nothing like "move-in" day!
You're making good headway. :D Interesting putting in the plumbing fixtures before drywall. Be sure and put blocking around the tub to help support it. Are you living in the house already?
The plumbing in the upstairs bath is only dry-fit currently except the toilet which is mounted. Everything else will move to put the drywall in. The question of the day for the plumbers out here, on the tub walls, do I not sheetrock at all? Just put the concrete board right over the lip of the tub and go up the wall leaving the actual "under the tub and sides un-rocked"?
Minimum behind the concrete board is a layer of felt per a tile forum I read I think. They said 15lb - I think I put 30. Fixed also so it will drain into the tub or shower.
Yes, no rock under the tub. Do the rest like Glen said. Put 1x4" on the back wall on underside edge of the tub to support it. Try to get the tub as close to level as you can.
Very helpful to see photos of the plumbing and such. These are sometimes hard for first time builders to imagine.
John, you are assuming I did it right.. ;D
Got quite a bit done this weekend. We took advantage of the Texas Sales Tax holiday on energy star appliances this weekend and purchased the rest of what we needed. We also purchased everything else we needed to "basically finish enough to move in." We ran the electric and the water lines to the house and got them both hooked up successfully. We ran a bunch of electric in the house and hooked up some water. Even fired up the instant water heater which is VERY cool. We installed the sink in a temporary cabinet so we can use it while we finish everything. Everything on it works great. Love the hot water. Very cool. So, we hope to get to move in in a week or so. We insulated the upstairs roof and attic and it made a huge difference. 95+ degree days and 2 small window a/c's keep the whole place at 75 degrees. I think we are on our way to moving in.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7238.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7237.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7235.jpg)
Phalynx, Lookin' good! Do you mind if I ask what the sidewall height and roof pitch are above that upstairs bathtub? I'm trying to figure out how much headroom is enough for a tub in a 1/2 story.
akemt, no problem! We framed using 14' lumber for the sidewalls. We didn't but the 14' length either. So, the 14' + bottom and double top plate gave us a 9' downstairs, and a 4'6" upstairs height. We ended up compromising on the roof pitch. Originally, we wanted to do the 12/12 roof pitch. After seeing how high that was and how much more work it was, we decided on a 10/12 roof pitch. We lost about 2' of full 8' ceiling height upstairs but ultimately, we thought it was a good solution. I am a tall man, 6'5" and even I felt that the ceiling heights upstairs with the 4'6" sidewalls and the 10/12 roof pitch was very comfortable. As it is, the full 8' ceiling height upstairs is 10' across. That gave the tub a full 8' ceiling height all the way to the near end of the tub. Then it comes down at a 40 degree angle. Also, as a judge, I can stand up from the toilet on the 2nd floor and the ceiling will just miss my 6'5" height. Hope this helps.
Did more work this weekend. I HATE sheetrock. We are trying to get the upstairs done so we can move up there. Working on getting a usable bathroom. Sink and toilet are mounted and working. Shower is almost tiled and I am working on the plumbing of it now.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7258.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7254.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7251.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7265.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7266.jpg)
Looks like lots of work going on there to me.
"Snugging up"
Did a little more work this weekend. Some sheetrocking, some electrical, some appliance work in the kitchen. I wish there was a faster way the sheetrock. Especially when you find out that some of your craftsmanship isn't 100% 90 degrees.... oops. I thought for sure that I was in the clear when the roof went on so smooth. That's usually where I find errors in my angles. Oh well, it's slow but sure.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7272.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7271.jpg)
That' what knives and joint compound are for. :)
Oh yes... I Agree. I just up'd the budget for mud a little. :)
Any huge gaps, I can just tell people "uh, please don't touch that, it's structural mud!"
Did a little more rocking this weekend. Did I mention before that I hate sheetrocking?
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7471.jpg)
Moving right along. You'll be moved in no time. I think you need a special kind of music to hang sheetrock by. d*
They say a picture is worth 1000 words. I say, this one is worth about 1000 homemade biscuits... mmmmmmmmmmm. Kitchen is fully functional now. No place to put anything, but hey... we can cook now!
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7474a.jpg)
Interesting to find how much you can do without. Get to the basics -- you can eat - you can sleep and the rest will come along as you get to it. Going on 7 years now for me and I still haven't got to all of it...
I see you have a can of that long nosed dessert topping right on the table for those biscuits. :P
Thanks for ALL the pictures, and to all for all the posts. I learn so much from this build in Texas. Thanks....
John,
Yeah that topping really is "great stuff" for biscuits. A real "stick to your ribs" meal then. ;) I have often joked about how my wife's biscuits weigh about 1 lbs each. I wonder what she'd say if I said they were R13 :)
Frank,
It's funny, I am building it and I keep looking at my own pictures to work out my next problems and changes. I use it as a "looking from a different point of view". I watched so many projects on here for the last few years and have made so many great choices from these projects. Some of my favorites were the Cason 20x40 2 story in North Texas and the house in Michigan. I really like Scott's Deer Run house in OK. What I hate is that he is behind me in his building progress. I like so much of his design details and I can't go back and change mine... Hurry up Scott, get in front of me so I can apply some of your ideas.. :)
I do the same thing. I can see things in pics that I don't see when looking at the house. Maybe it's because the camera compresses the view so you can see more at once. I hurry every chance I get but you can't rush these things. Many of my design decisions are made after the fact. I have a basic idea of what I want to do but details evolve/change as more parts are added. I'll spend hours sometimes looking at things from different perspectives before comming up with the right ideas. I just yesterday decided how to do the front stairs I'll build later this week.
Scott,
You sound a lot like me (even the same name). My wife will ask how we will do "this part" and I just tell her, I'll figure it out as I go. So many things I just visualize based upon the problem I am given. I have found, at least with my skills, that if I plan everything out to a "T", I'll mess something up at the very beginning and the entire plan is shot. I simply plan ahead with only the critical parts in mind. Everything else, I plan as I go. For me, I don't have experience of building house after house. I don't know all of the gotchas so for me to plan out every detail is silly.
Our favorite statment is "Hey, it's our house and we built it ourselves. Who's going to know?" :)
On another note completely unrelated. I had a realization this weekend. We had some friends come over and they were just in amazement that we could build such a thing. Build you own house??? Who helped? Well who did the plumbing? Who did the electrical? Who did the siding? How could just you 2 build this whole house? That's unbelievable.
My realization is, I really think that this is where the problem is in society. That people think that building your own house is unbelieveable. How can we have all gotten so lazy and out of touch. I think those of us building our own houses are the "Pioneers at Heart" that built this Country. An maybe, just maybe, the ones who can slowly turn it back around.
Building your own house isn't hard, it's just hard work. It's scary that the 2 different meanings have become 1 in America.
Americans have come to believe that being a specialist is the way to go and they are doomed if that job disappears for the most part.
I have always wanted to do it all -- didn't want an employee etc. to get me by the short hair.
For the most part you are right. I would say the people here doing their own house are in about 5% of the population as far as their abilities go. The rest are specialists and have been convinced by the educators and jealous job protecting trades that they can't do it.
Question authority I say-- if it's not authority, question it anyway. If it's me don't bother -- d*
Whatever it is - if you want to do it -- do it - read a book - the net - whatever. You can do it. Brain surgery anyone?
All true.
As jobs, education, and commerce all get more and more complex, we are led to believe that everything must be done by a specialist.
But the haze of complexity starts to dissipate when you just get in there and start working it out. Once you take the leap and as you're thinking, forum reading and studying, your intuition and "common sense" kick in and you start to see a path that moves you towards the goal. When you're learning, discovering and inventing your way through this - you can sometimes find yourself in a sweet spot called by some brain scientists, "flow".
That is a very alive and engaging place to be and I think it is one the great motivators of this self-building process.
Oooh, a master bedroom..... Well, it's a cozy master bedroom. But, since we will only have built ins,,, no problem. Did I mention that I hate sheetrock? I don't think we are going to last the week. I am almost certain, we'll move in this week. It's no where near done, but done enough to get in there......
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7484.jpg)
phalynx You are the adventuring kind aren't you. Moving in before you are done. You think your DW complained about trying to keep the house clean before.
I guess asking you to come and help me with my drywall is out of the question. ;D
Redoverfarm, I may need to mention that I HATE drywall.. :)
We are living in a large 5th wheel. We really don't mind the cozyness of the camper but I mind the 524.00 monthly payment..... I choose move in.. :)
Yep money talks.
Master bedroom complete! (-paint). Don't know what color yet...
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7490.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7488.jpg)
Looking really nice! What type of flooring is that in the bedroom? You have really done a beautiful job! I'd be moving in, too! Only trouble with that is you get comfortable, get your stuff in & then you don't feel like completing stuff... ::) I hate doing drywall, too! Whew, a whole house - that's a lot of drywall.
Sassy,
The flooring is a very very expensive Mahogany flown in from the base of single mountain in Europe. We purchased it at a very good price of 28.79 a sq ft. It's beautiful isn't it? HA! just kidding. It's Pergo Prestige. We liked the look of it and since we have a large dog with large claws, real wood wasn't going to be durable. (We use Suave shampoo too!!,, we don't spend a fortune on our hair, Suave just makes us look like we do) ;)
For everyone's consumption, we did some more work this weekend. Added a front porch to the deck. Very handy... Now, the table saw can go out on the front porch with the miter saw.. Whheweeeee, we'z goin be tru renecks fo sure.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7495.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7498.jpg)
Look how happy my puppy is now!
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7505.jpg)
Making good progress. But you have to move the frig onto the porch to fit in that catagory ;D Still putting off the chimney I see. I know it is not high on the priorities.
Yea, the chimney is on hold for at least winter. The fireplace we want is $4000 so it can wait.
Hummm, fridge on the front porch....... HONEY,, I think I can get your table to fit in the kitchen now!
Cut a hole through the wall so that only the front of the fridge is in the kitchen. Throw a chain and padlock around the back so the Bodine boys don't make off wit it.
Glenn, that's perfect. I can then call it a "built in". I'll add this suggestion to the "built in's" thread. My wife is sure to approve now. Now if I can figure out how to add a door to the back of the fridge, I'd be able to get a cold one from either side.
We did that in our other place when I remodeled -- the back is in the bedroom surrounded by a sheetrock wall -- the bedroom had more room than we needed for a spare bedroom. Actually the oven and microwaves are in the bedroom - the fridge is in the utility room.
Here is a pix.
(https://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d184/glennkangiser/kitchenbuiltins.jpg)
We did just a little work today. Saturday was shot due to other commitments. Just some more rocking upstairs. We'll probably tackle the closet in the master bedroom tomorrow.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7526.jpg)
Not a whole bunch of major progress to date. I have been tacklling little projects. I built a lot of the built-in's in the master closet. I Was going to take a picture of it all but my wife had already put all my underwear in there. No one needs to see that! :o
We did some tile work in the master bath on the floor. I can tell you, do not buy marble that says "imported from China". Even the natural stone in China sucks. Most of the pieces were broken and they epoxied the pieces back together... uh no thanks... It's super brittle.
What about the flue? Winter is coming. Just ribbing ya as I know you will get to it in your own time.
I was looking at it yesterday as a matter of fact. I am thinking of getting a cheap fireplace insert for now and then upgrading to the expensive fireplace later. Also, I am hoping that with all the insulation that we have in here with the mild winters we have and all the hot air that spews from my mouth, we'll be able to heat the place without a fire.. :) never know..
What's really funny is I fully intend to tap your offer of the drawing. But, I work for a technology company and I don't even think we have a fax machine.. :) I have never found it here.
I had a fax but after reams of junk faxes I went to manual only.
I remember the days of "fax-o-fishes". Anyone else ever get one?
I didn't have that but got a million timeshare vacations in Hawaii.
oh yes and the daily penny stocks before they discovered my inbox.
Wife requested redesign of the kitchen. Redo some plumbing and some electricity. Small progress this week.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/kitchen2.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/kitchen1%7E0.jpg)
One of the advantages of not getting in too big a hurry.
Did you go on vacation or get finished? How about the flue? It Winter here.
I love the way you have done your staircase. Can you please give specifics on the dimensions and how you built the transition on the platform. I like that much better than a set of steps, platform and continuation of steps.
:) Sorry, didn't go on vacation, just getting really busy. I do have some pictures I need to upload and post. Now that it's cold, I have to live up to my promise of finishing the sheetrock. I should have said when it rains,,,,,, that never seems to happen here.
Redover - just picked up a fireplace today off craigslist so I will wanting that info now.. :)
alcowboy - I'll get that information this weekend and post. It was very easy to construct.
phalynx I remember discussing it with you. Was it in an earlier post or a PM. Age is taking care of my memory.
You had mentioned faxing over some drawings I believe. It was in a private message.
phalynx
I found the post that I described the poured cap and flashing. It is contained in the following.
http://countryplans.com/smf/index.php?topic=2525.msg52059#msg52059
They do make a chase cover or cap that you could purchase. I didn't really look hard but found this on first to give you an idea. Of course you would probably have to have one SO for your chase size you made. You could have someone to fabricate one out of gal or alum if you gave them the demensions.
http://www.woodlanddirect.com/Chimney/Chase-Covers;jsessionid=0a0106521f4366fc8d15fdba4a668237cc59924868d6.e3eSc34RbhyRe34Pa38Ta38SbNr0
As far as the roof flashing here is a couple of sites that might help.
http://www.rd.com/17758/article17758.html
http://www.gobrick.com/pdfs/flashing%20chimneys.pdf?CFID=4941577&CFTOKEN=90460297
http://roofingcontractorreview.com/Basic-Chimney-Flashing.html
Although some pertain to brick flues the layout is basickly the same as far as weaving through the shingles as you progress up the roof pitch. Some are for a mason flue so with yours it will not have to be embeded in the stone or brick all you have to do is put the flange under your bottom course of siding and subsequent course where it meets the roof and attach it to your plywood. I think as a extra precaution I would use "ice guard" or "storm guard" on the plywood allowing it to turn out onto the last shingle before you start flashing.
Well work has progressed slowly but making the differences that matter. Today we got the fireplace all installed. It was a real chore. I don't think I want to install one of those again. We had picked up a fireplace on craigslist for 200.00 with some pipe. We purchased a couple more pieces and the fireplace place gave us a chimney cover they had built that was too big. My neighbor and I played around with it enough until it fit pretty well and then installed it. After several "I don't know what to do about that's", we finally figured it all out and whola! we have a fire now. It drafts extremely well. I am very pleased.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/dec7%202008/DSC_7866.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/dec7%202008/DSC_7870.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/dec7%202008/DSC_7885.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/dec7%202008/DSC_7897.jpg)
Nice.
Great job. Looks cozy. :)
I think I saw some of you rpictures in my last safety briefing, on things not to do with ladders.
The house is looking great!
Safety? I checked the little stickers on the ladder and none of them said I couldn't do that. Clearly I was safe. d* Actually, what you can't see if I had strapped the ladder to the tractor where it couldn't move and it was tied off to the house before I would even get on it. I wasn't happy, it still wasn't safe, but I didn't figure it was any less safe than a 250 lbs gorilla (me) on a 30' extension ladder. I was scared out of my mind.
I saw that and I liked it. That was cool. :)
As advice I would suggest either no life insurance policy or take the tractor keys away from the wife. d*
And,,,, a kitchen is born.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/dec12%202008/DSC_7913.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/dec12%202008/DSC_7917.jpg)
Glad I got that fireplace done....
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/dec12%202008/DSC_7904.jpg)
Looks good - I see you got our snow but I'm afraid there is plenty to go around.
That was sleet and I am sure it was an accident. We don't get snow, rain, or any of that water stuff. Who would have thought living in a dense forrest would actually mean living in a desert.
Really starting to look like home. Should be nice having Christmas in the new place.
I want to use a microwave like you've got over our range, Is it vented to the outside?
ScottA,
Christmas is going to be very nice. The microwave can be vented 3 different ways. 1st is direct inside, not practical. The 2nd is a vent to the back (for up the wall venting). Also not easy to do or even find the thin vent pipe. The 3rd is vertical venting. I have a 6" vent going through the top cabinet and then up through the ceiling where it goes directly outside in between the 2x12 ceiling joists. I installed a vent on the outside with flapper. I believe you can see a better picture of the venting on the page before this one. The microwave is excellent. Provides an extreme amount of airflow and the light is very nice. Just make sure there are a couple of studs behind the microwave. It mounts both directly to the wall with a plate (very thin) and then to the cabinet above.
Hooked up the downstairs bathroom. Wife happy now. Just need to finish rocking and cement boarding it and then tile..
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7922.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7924.jpg)
What is it with women and plumbing? ???
I have no idea. Their ideas of "accomplishments" and ours are completely different. I thought we had done enough when I could hook up the tv and sit in my chair.
Cool sink, phalynx, but it looks like it may be expecting a fountain or something. [waiting]
We are new to plumbing. We are not sure the gestation period for sinks yet. We'll let you know when it births. I do think it will be in a few hours though because when I was under it, I am pretty sure the water broke. I was really wet.
That is rather disgusting, phalynx.
Did you time the contractions? hmm
My wife was timing. She said she heard grunting about once ever few minutes and few curse words every 5-10.
How many centimeters was the drain, phalynx?
I'd suggest you ready the adjustable spanner and hot water.
I really wasn't too sure. It looked to be about 3 cm. I really didn't enjoy being underneath and looking up. I had to wear safety goggles to make sure nothing fell into my eyes. It was a disgusting situation. My wife said I left a huge mess all over the floor.
She wouldn't happen to have any mid-wife training? hmm
That could be very useful at a time like this. [waiting]
No, we're both only on our 1st marriage. She only has 1st wife training. d*
Just wanted to say the house is looking good, I have read the entire post multiple times and it has inspired a few ideas that I did not think of. It also makes it so much easier for my wife to visualize the end result which keeps me from getting frustrated trying to explain it. I hope that a little cursing at the plumbing is the worst you have to deal with from here on out :)
I actually didn't have much problems. I needed to be dramatic so that the Glenn/Phalynx Show could start and we could have our back and forth jokes. The plumbing, I found, to be very easy. I was glad. It was the one thing I hadn't ever done before. As far as building goes, its been my wife and I 99% of the time. I think almost anyone can build their home. There are a few more pictures, of the house construction, on our picture website.
http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/thumbnails.php?album=20 (http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/thumbnails.php?album=20)
Quote from: phalynx on December 14, 2008, 10:14:33 PM
No, we're both only on our 1st marriage. She only has 1st wife training. d*
This makes things a bit more difficult, phalynx, but I believe I have found a solution.
Possibly the two of you should read this and perhaps you will be able to handle the situation when it is time.
http://etext.library.adelaide.edu.au/d/dickens/charles/d54ge/
Oooh, that story scared the Dickens out of me!
Required reading when I was a kid. I always had the hots for Estella. ::)
I am really stoked to see that we are not the only crazy ones living in, and raising a family in an unfinished house (drywall not even taped yet, etc.)! I had my wife look at the picture with the tree, and fireplace, and pointed out how hardcore that is that the place isn't finished. She said (very mockingly), "isn't that how everybody lives?" It was at both times a hard poke, and friendly banter. You're doing a very nice job there. Fireplace makes for nice and cozy when snowing outside, doesn't it?
I don't think it's a home unless you have to step over power tools in your living room. We have a huge RV, but living in the home you built, even if it's just wood with a roof, is STILL much cooler than living in an RV.
I lived in the underground complex when it was just 12x16 with plastic on one side and snow outside. It was still better than the motorhome. :)
I bet you had tools on the floor too. I love the smell of electric motors in the morning!
There were at least places to walk --- if you were careful. d*
Quote from: phalynx on December 17, 2008, 11:11:25 AM
I bet you had tools on the floor too. I love the smell of electric motors in the morning!
electric motors in the morning.... that is the smell of victory.
And a bathroom is almost finished. Ah, showering down stairs, a dream come true.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_7954.jpg)
Very nice. All the comforts of home.
You've done a great job on the tile! It all looks very nice 8)
I didn't use the zoom lens on purpose! :D Some things look better from afar... :(
Ok, Before....
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/photo%7E0.jpg)
After
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_8015.jpg)
I like the after shot better ;D
Yea, it was a step in the right direction!
Looks nice. :)
What kind of wood are your steps made of?
Yep, those do appear much nicer than the originals. When you have time it would be great to hear more about them... What's under the treads and riers, what type/size of wood. What sort of finish treatment will you be using?
Thanks for showing us them. :)
The wood used is pine. I built the stairs with 3- 2x12 stingers and 3/4" sanded plywood for the base treads. On top of the base treads, I have 1x sanded pine planks. I used a router table to round over the edges on the planks. The riser fillers are 1x pine as well. Where the pieces of wood were not the correct height or depth, I put several pieces together using a biscuit jointer, biscuits and glue. The side pieces on the wall is 1x12 pine with a routed cove on top for finish.
Everything was put together with construction adhesive and finishing nails. Absolutely squeak free! Well, we'll see after a year or so my girls running up and down the stairs.
As for the finish, we'll be using a stain with several coats of satin poly on it. I will cover it, sand it, and keep going until I think it will survive. I just want to make sure it isn't slippery. That may be a challenge.
Over all, I am pleased with the look. I certainly have some details to finish and work out but I was impressed with my finish carpentry work. I hadn't done much to date. I'm no PEG, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.... Maybe someday, I'll be 1/2 as good as PEG. Then again,,, PEG will just get better and then I would only be about 1/4 a good... hummm
Just a hint. Use gloss on your first coat. Then follow with satin on subsequent coats. Brings out a lot clearer wood definition. Also as much as you may be tempted to use a water base poly because ease of application and recoat times. Don't as it will not hold up to traffic as oil's do. Good job.
House is getting too full of stuff/tools and my makeshift work area on the front porch is causing problems. So, we are starting to build a 16x24 shop off to the side of the house to allow some storage of some stuff and a workshop area for all the woodwork tools. Here is a progress this weekend.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_8079.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_8093.jpg)
phalynx you are just a gluttin for punishment. ;D
Well, it's going to all match! Me laying on the boards is exactly how I feel right now. I am thinking of going with just a shed roof so that I can put a lean-to on it and maybe collect the rain water if it were to ever rain... sigh.
The homeplace is looking really nice. :)
I think you are addicted, phalynx. Soon you will be putting buildings everywhere and no end in sight... kind of a Sarah Winchester type guy.... [waiting]
I could be the above ground Glenn.......
Yeah - I'm still digging... d* [crz]
The biggest problem is I am looking at the footprint of that shop thinking off all the other things it could be.. Bad Scott, BAD!
Looks high enough to build lean-to's and while you are at it, extend the studs so you can go with a pitched roof and an attic. I fear you'll need it. d*
Well, for an update, we got tired of looking at insulation. And since I HATE sheetrock (did I mention that), we got a couple of quotes for some (professionals) to finish all the rocking. I couldn't believe how cheap it is. If I had only known, I would have had a crew come and do the entire place before we moved in. Well, they have been here 1 day and have finished the upstairs (rocking only). Tomorrow they will finish the downstairs. Then a couple of days to tape and float and texture. All I can think of is that is 60 sheets of drywall I won't have to touch. I love it.. There is pleasure in building your own home. That pleasure gets lost when you are having to do something you hate. I like it now. :) even though now technically I didn't build the entire house myself... I can live with it.
Pictures to follow.
Smart move. I'm sure you'll be much happier now. :)
Some pics
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9599.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9596.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9602.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9594.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9603.jpg)
I'll wager you are glad to see that part of the job done with, even if you had to pay the crew. :)
You would be absolutely correct! That is something well worth paying for. Plus, I learned a lot about how to install sheetrock. I still hate it.
Oh my,,,, this is what happens when you let your girls choose the color of their rooms...... Well. maybe I am just looking at life through rose color glasses...
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9605.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9608.jpg)
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Last day for the drywallers... Everything should better in the morning... all better.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9609.jpg)
phalynx I have a pair of those same glasses I guess. My daughters room is two shades of pink. Darker shade on the gable ends and lighter shade on the side walls. Don't worry about it. They will have it covered up with Hanna Montana & High School Musical stuff shortly. ;D
Pink on pink??? man,, that would be tough.. We already laid down the law (for now), they may have 2 thumbtacks to hang stuff and must be pre-approved before hanging. We'll hang pictures on nails. No real problem with Hannah Montana right now. Girls think she is a horrible actor :D ... I have to deal with horse pictures everywhere....
We have two boys and one of the boys painted his room twice. First in hot pink (much darker and more vivid than your color). Then he had second thoughts on pink and repainted the room black. :P
I think it took three coats of primer to get back to something you wake up to in the morning.
In my younger days, I would have been the boy who painted his room black. I would have loved it. Of course I would have had 1000 watts of light in there just so I could read. Its funny how we tend to be wiser as we get older...
Well, it's been a fast 2 weeks. All drywall is up, textured, and we just finished painting everything. I love professional paint sprayers. The carpeting for upstairs is getting installed on Friday and the lenoleum will be installed in the kitchen next week. After that.... its just a few more things. Sand and stain the stairs, install stair rails, fix some closets and the house will be pretty much 100%.... I do need to build the back deck and porch though... But all in time.
All in all (as if I was really done), this has been an extremely rewarding experience and I certainly couldn't have done any of it without all of the help from everyone on this board.
Just want to say thanks!.
Pics shortly...
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9613.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9618.jpg)
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(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9616.jpg)
Cleaned the tools and construction stuff off the front porch. Put on a nice railing and actually sat in the chairs.. . neat.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9624.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9622.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9625.jpg)
Baseboards done upstairs. Kinda looks useful now.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9620.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9621.jpg)
Downstairs, clean and nice.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9629.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9630.jpg)
Home Sweet Home.
Really looks nice. :)
Looks like home, sweet home. :)
I hope mine looks that good when it gets finished.
phalynx, you were an inspiration for me to join this site as were geographically close and seemed like we had some of the same goals. your place looks just great, I cant believe how fast it has come together for you guys.
nice pepto bismal paint job in that room too. :)
HA!!! I almost spit coke all over the nice new carpet. Looking at all of the colors in this house, I'd say I have built the largest Easter egg. Now I have to hide it.. :)
So how long from start to finish? My husband says we can't move in - at all - until it's finished. And he means totally finished. >:(
We started Dec 07. We moved in July 08. If we hadn't moved in, we probably would have been done in Oct. Keep in mind we only worked on weekends mostly and I like to take a lot of breaks ;D I went through about a 3 month period where I only wanted to sit and stare at the place and admire all the work we did and then think about all the work left. It would get a little overwhelming. I would say make sure you "can't get comfortable" in the house. Only have uncomfortable chairs for breaks. The moment you get comfy, you start to move in and slow down. In our case, we were in an RV full time with 2 girls and a dog. It was time to move in for us. Selling the RV made a nice reward in the checkbook every month.
Wow, excellent. Everything looks amazing. You did a superb job on the drywall taping. My hats off to you. I'm dreading taping all the drywall in my house. I love the deck and chimney also. Very very nice! ;D
Thanks all for the kind words...
BishopKnight- As far as the tape and float,,, I surrendered to professionals on it. It was WELL worth it for us. 1/2 way through we decided that we did NOT have what it took to drywall and tape and float.
Just info for anyone. We did a summary calc of the costs for the entire place. With everything, appliances, construction, even hiring drywallers, plumbing, fixtures, cabinets, etc.. We spent just under 30K for the entire project.
Cool - you can't even buy a new car or truck for that any more. Here you have something to shelter your entire family and occasional friends... :)
Looks great! Love the porch :) I remember painting my bedroom a "peach" color in highschool... more like a subtle orange... :o
Just an update on the shop we are building. I decided to see how much, if any, the rain will affect my underground storage bunker project, so we decided to finish up our shop that we are building. Here are some updates. I hope to have it finished by tuesday, unless it doesn't stop raining.
(//www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9740.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9745.jpg)
Today's work.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9762.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9759.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9754.jpg)
You like that chair, don't you, buddy... :)
...but --good show anyway.. :)
Well, it keeps me sit-uated. d*
Finished framing the roof, painted the outside, and installed the windows in the shop. Roofing will come slowly this week.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9769.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9770.jpg)
Roof mostly on.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9776.jpg)
Looking good. You probably like that pitch roof alot better than the house don't you. And the fall distance is better too.
Oh my yes... It's amazing what a 10/12 roof pitch can do to build up your courage. I was crawling around up on the shop like I had done it for 20 years. Still cautious, but not so fearful.
Something told me that you would say that.
Oh,,, so now I am predictable? Geez, I need to go sit in a chair so my wife can take a picture of me. d*
Very safe, Phalynx. Very safe indeed. [scared]
Not much to walk on though... This sheet metal is so thin I could sneeze and blow the roof off... :( I am not buying this stuff again.
Finished the roof today. Neighbor came by to help finish. He weighs less than me and was the perfect person to be up top :). I'll do the electric tomorrow and the insulation over the next couple days. Then I'll call out the sheetrock crew to do the rocking. I did learn one thing.. :)
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(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9783.jpg)
Looks good - so you conned the neighbor into getting up there... probably with the promise of a picture on the net.... :)
It's more of the "I bought a whole bunch of tools that he won't have to buy" trade. When he builds his home, hopefully soon, I'll assist him.
There you go. :)
Looking pretty good... I have a sheetrock crew in there today.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9790.jpg)
Still don't care for sheetrock, eh? hmm
No, and I don't really care for this particular sheetrock crew either... They were cheaper but they really suck!
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(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9797.jpg)
Quote from: phalynx on May 14, 2009, 12:56:27 AM
Just info for anyone. We did a summary calc of the costs for the entire place. With everything, appliances, construction, even hiring drywallers, plumbing, fixtures, cabinets, etc.. We spent just under 30K for the entire project.
Thanks for the awesome and inspiring thread.
30k include the well and bringing in electric?
I want a full basement, but maybe not worth the price tag to me.....
thanks again.
Mel
I can't understand why you didn't do the drywall. I know it is one of your favorites. I think I would convert some of the space to what do they call it, Oh Yeah "Man Cave". Too nice to put tools and stuff in there.
thats a nice shop, looks more like a mini hotel room :) did you think about running air compressor lines before the drywall? what about a sawdust vacuum system? When I get around to doing the shop in my mind I have always dreamed of having both of those incorporated into it. maybe some electrical at workbench height? did you tie in a 220 outlet for a welder?
I had to fire the sheetrock crew today. They were doing such a bad job and coming late and leaving for hours and then leaving early. We'll end up finishing the mud and doing the texture.
Redover... Oh believe me, Man cave has been running though my head. But why can't a man cave be a shop too? :)
muldoon... I thought about running the air compressor lines but ultimately decided I would just use a recoiling hose. Maybe later run some lines around to give it more of that "lived in shop" look.
Vacuum system is on my mind but I will most likely have a lot of my tools on mobile bases so I would probably just stick a vacuum system in the corner and run a temp hose to each tool as I use it. I dunno yet.
I put all of the electrical at floor height because my last shop I did it at counter height and the proceeded to put up shelves everywhere and it blocked the outlets. I figure I'll just use multi outlet strips on the workbench.
220v, I didn't put in a welder 220v in because I am going to use a MIG welder that will run off a 20 amp 110V. It's a wood floor and I didn't think it would be too wise to weld inside.. I dunno, I am not much of a welder yet. I do have 60Amps of 220V run to the shop so I can handle a few 220V circuits should my tools require them.
In my last shop I had 2 30amp circuits on that metal flexible conduit run to metal outlet boxes with outlets on them. I could them put there wherever in the shop I needed and could coil them up when I needed.
Here it is after my wife finished taping and floating the seams (love her) and just about to put the texture on.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9815.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9813.jpg)
Gotta say she did a lot better job than the pix you posted of what they were doing. Nice work. :)
You and she must be pleased!! :)
Yes we are commenting to each other how much better we are at taping and floating. We still have sheetrock though.
Hurray,,, we are done with the construction (almost, trim outside left) of the shop! All textured, painted and flooring went down.
Here's our progress the last 2 days. Several with my "crew", a.k.a my family. It's a shop fit for a King... I do believe I am going to get my crown.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9821.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9823.jpg)
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(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9832.jpg)
fantastic looking shop!
I have a few questions.
What texture did you use for the sheetrock? one of the aerosol cans? a hand held sprayer machine? other technique? I have been trying to figure out how to do this best and am curious what you did.
What did you put on top of that plywood floor to finish it off? Looks good.
finally, and most importantly - how did you get your wife to do the sheetrock work? specifically, tell me the magic words you used ... I am taking notes here ... d*
Regarding the texture.
I bought a Hobart texture gun years ago. The hopper is loaded with a joint compound mix diluted with some water to suit. With a little practise you can do quite well.
Muldoon,
Texture was "orange peel". I used the gun MountainDon mentioned. It was approximately $50 at the big orange store. It's just a hopper for the mud and it hooks to your air compressor. The manual says to use 30-35 psi and slightly thin the mud. I read a lot online about it and watched a couple of videos and determined the best pressure was 60 psi. The mixture of "just plain sheetrock mud" was thinned with water to the consistency of pancake batter. This worked really well. I was pleased.
I put commercial vinyl tile on the floor. It's 1/8" thick and goes on with a very thin adhesive. Now my shop floor looks like a Wal-Mart d*
Quote from: muldoon on June 12, 2009, 07:09:44 PM
finally, and most importantly - how did you get your wife to do the sheetrock work? specifically, tell me the magic words you used ... I am taking notes here ... d*
The exact words were "Honey, the faster we get the shop built, the faster I can get all the tools and stuff out of your candle house." (candle house is the cabin behind our house where she makes her wonderful soy candles ***self supporting marketing advert here***)
Your mileage will vary but you might find your own little "candle house" move to make. You can also just start storing your tools and such in the way of whatever your wife wants to do. Tah DAH!
Great job. I like to splatter it on- let it dry a little bit then knock it down with a wide knife so the tops are flat. It gives it a nice effect.
Wow, just look how happy I look!!! ;D
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9842.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9838.jpg)
Had to look at those pix twice --- first you were there then you were gone. I thought it was a trick. [waiting]
Do you always finish everything you start? You are making me look bad.... d*
Quote from: glenn kangiser on June 15, 2009, 12:52:41 AM
Had to look at those pix twice --- first you were there then you were gone. I thought it was a trick. [waiting]
Matter can neither be created nor destroyed. You see that giant pile of shavings? That was me afterwards. My wife has put me back together with some wood glue.
Quote from: glenn kangiser on June 15, 2009, 12:52:41 AM
Do you always finish everything you start? You are making me look bad.... d*
BWHAHAHAHAHAHHA,,,,,, I guarantee my wife is laughing and spitting coke at her laptop right now. I only ever finish 85-95% of anything I ever start.
Even 85% makes me look bad. [waiting] rofl
At least your not obsessive about it. I was afraid you might be. [scared]
Quote from: phalynx on June 15, 2009, 12:57:39 AM
BWHAHAHAHAHAHHA,,,,,, I guarantee my wife is laughing and spitting coke at her laptop right now. I only ever finish 85-95% of anything I ever start.
Is that figure that you complete 85-95% of the projects started or that projects get finished to within 85-95% of being completed before 'something' happens and it languishes. I sometimes have problems with the later... of course sometimes that is because the finish line keeps getting moved. d*
Glenn, Mountain Don....you are just interested in so many things that it hard to do them all justice....speaking from experience in this matter. c*
Quote from: MountainDon on June 15, 2009, 01:11:44 AM
Is that figure that you complete 85-95% of the projects started or that projects get finished to within 85-95% of being completed before 'something' happens and it languishes. I sometimes have problems with the later... of course sometimes that is because the finish line keeps getting moved. d*
It's very much so the latter. I am known around here as "the 90 percenter". I either get bored, burned out, or just plain distracted from my projects.
I love it. Great job and really came along quickly!! [cool]
I put in a 24 X20 to be wood shop here in the 'valley' where we live full time. Was going to be my full time wood working - maybe a little mechanical work; but mostly wood working man cave. Man cave however due to several family 'emergencies' was turned in to 24X20 storage unit. Once due to cousin loosing her home and then there was the daughter's divorce. Finely enough is enough. Caveman not happy, caveman had to put foot down and tell everyone to get your #$$@@#$$!@! stuff moved out I needed my shop. >:(
This year I am planing to make or get a start on the cabinets and built-ins for the house up at the ranch. Caveman happy again :)
Once again really happy for you and a great job!
rlr
CAPTAIN, CAAAAAAAAAVVVVEEEE MAAAAYYYYYYAAAAAAANNNNN. I hope someone else besides me remembers that show...
(https://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd127/MaineRhino/misc/captain-caveman-gal-431.jpg)
Kinda looks like Glenn...
Just the eyes. ;D
I guess the eyes have it!
Quote from: considerations on June 15, 2009, 08:56:13 AM
Glenn, Mountain Don....you are just interested in so many things that it hard to do them all justice....speaking from experience in this matter. c*
You are much too kind, Considerations. rofl
Quote from: phalynx on June 15, 2009, 03:08:32 PM
Kinda looks like Glenn...
I thought it was him.... [waiting]
First project in the shop, complete. Pegg I ain't..... But maybe I'll be there one day.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_9846.jpg)
Cool Phalynx. Dirty that shop up a bit. You are making me look bad again. [waiting]
I invested in a duct collection system.. I have 2 GIGANTIC bags full of wood chips, which the chickens will now enjoy.
I have a dust collection... [waiting]
Perhaps Sassy can motivate you...... You have to at least complete every project to within 80% before moving to the next. I think international law permits moving to the next project after 80%.
I will be banished from the planet.... [waiting]
Perhaps Mars is better suited for you... There is plenty of dust there. You would feel right at home.
Now you've gone and done it. No more rebuilding the carburetor on the kitchen table for you. d*
Quote from: glenn kangiser on June 21, 2009, 10:34:50 AM
I have a dust collection... [waiting]
Geez dude, I didn't even see what I typed until my wife busted out laughing at me. I have collected no ducts, only dust... Geez, my after jokes seem silly now.
They are fine... make sense to me.....
Collecting ducts may be kind of gross.... [waiting]
This guy has a duct tape collection....
(https://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt92/harknasty/duct.jpg)
That guy needs spackle...
Duct, Duct, Duct, Duct.........TRUCE!!!
Now my wife is threatening to sign up so she can humiliate me when I type wrong..
This is not my wife, but this girl does seem to have a lot of hang-ups.
(http://www.oz-q.com/humour/duct%20tape.jpg)
Please have your wife sign up... we need to talk... [waiting]
I'll give her a free account.... all she has to do is register.... :)
I'm sure John will be OK with that.... [waiting]
Thats extreme waxing! OUCH!
Reminds me -- summer is here.
Sun, swimming and time for my annual bikini wax... [waiting]
How did Alasdair answer your jokes before you posted it? ESP?
And seriously Glenn, the amount of wax for your annual............
(https://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd127/MaineRhino/misc/captain-caveman-gal-431.jpg)
hmm Maybe I'm omnipotent...
I could keep a whole hive of bees busy... I have so much hair growing out of my ears, my earplugs won't go in tight... part of the reason for my hearing loss. [waiting]
Shave it all off, knit a sweater. Then you can wear it in the winter and take it off in the summer.
Isn't that what ear wax is for?
Quote from: phalynx on June 21, 2009, 07:36:13 PM
Shave it all off, knit a sweater. Then you can wear it in the winter and take it off in the summer.
Wouldn't that be an ear wig rather than a sweater?
Ear wax.... that would make for a sticky wicket.... I wonder if that is a Scottish expression... we never see wickets out here much... hmm
Ear wig... like this? (https://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/WoodyAutumn/earwig.jpg)
or this
(https://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr273/ColinTG/Work%20Website%20Pics/Earwig.jpg)
I don't know about this, Al --- you're getting a bit too sharp for us... Is Anita coaching you? :)
Wow! where did you find that picture of my uncle Harry Lugs? :D
He was in Photobucket. I didn't realize anyone knew him. d*
It looks like the gene pool needs chlorine.... d*
Quote from: glenn kangiser on June 21, 2009, 06:54:42 PM
Please have your wife sign up... we need to talk... [waiting]
Ok Glenn, you got your wish here I am.
lil-bit my hats off to you with phalynx. He needs another project. The idle time is killing us.
Quote from: lil-bit on June 21, 2009, 09:36:06 PM
Quote from: glenn kangiser on June 21, 2009, 06:54:42 PM
Please have your wife sign up... we need to talk... [waiting]
Ok Glenn, you got your wish here I am.
That is so cool..... it's like my computer is a genie. hmm
I make my wish, tap my keyboard and out pops lil-bit. :)
Now I think we may be able to get the big dude under control.... [waiting]
Great to have you on the forum, lil-bit... w*
Quote from: glenn kangiser on June 21, 2009, 11:37:58 PM
Quote from: lil-bit on June 21, 2009, 09:36:06 PM
Quote from: glenn kangiser on June 21, 2009, 06:54:42 PM
Please have your wife sign up... we need to talk... [waiting]
Ok Glenn, you got your wish here I am.
That is so cool..... it's like my computer is a genie. ???
???
I wonder if your head was magical. You are rubbing your head. It may not be a magical keyboard...
She's online now. You asked for it.
That is great, phalynx. Our ratio of women to men on this forum is really lacking - we need more, and an occasional inside scoop is just a bonus.... :)
Rubbing my head... no, I'm thumping my head... [waiting]
Anything we can do to help, lil-bit, just let us know. ::)
Quote from: glenn kangiser on June 22, 2009, 11:42:38 PM
That is great, phalynx. Our ratio of women to men on this forum is really lacking - we need more, and an occasional inside scoop is just a bonus.... :)
Rubbing my head... no, I'm thumping my head... [waiting]
Anything we can do to help, lil-bit, just let us know. ::)
Thanks Glenn, I may not post alot but now if I catch something I don't have to tell him I can just write it myself :)
Ooooh, yeeeeeeeea... [toilet]
Great, lil-bit.
I can hardly wait.... and I'm sure phalynx is enthused also... :)
w* Lil,
Nice work on the drywalling - will you be available to do some tape and filling in Cape Breton later this summer .....
;)
:D
Al
What are the dimensions of your house? What size did your downstairs rooms ultimately work out to be? We are in the planning (dreaming) stage and I really like the idea of a downstairs master bedroom.
Thanks,
Melanie
Quote from: MelanieM on June 24, 2009, 04:11:13 PM
What are the dimensions of your house? What size did your downstairs rooms ultimately work out to be? We are in the planning (dreaming) stage and I really like the idea of a downstairs master bedroom.
Thanks,
Melanie
20x34 is the outside dimensions. The master ended up 9' 6" x 10' 6". The family room is about 14x19 and the kitchen is about 13x10.
Latest edition to my home.. c* Taking home brew to the next level.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/photo-2.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/photo-8.jpg)
Alright! What's the address? ;D ;D
Hehe,,, Come on down Don. Don't forget your beer stein!
We too are dreaming about a 2 story universal and like a master downstairs. Do you have a queen size bed in the master? How is the size of the room working for you; would you prefer something a little larger? We don't want a big bedroom just room enought for a bed, bedside tables, room to walk around it and space for a built in wardrobe. After looking through your home building we've been wondering if we should do this ( add the bedroom off the main room and extend the length of the house) or add a bedroom off to the side like in the VC plan. Beautiful home btw.
Thanks, Liesl
Our master is 9.5' x 10.5' and we do have a Queen bed. We went into this home with the understanding we weren't going to be using furniture in the bedrooms. We were going to use built-ins. This made a huge difference. There is plenty of room to walk around the queen size bed but there is no furniture on the sides except night stands. Our TV is mounted on the wall and everything else is kept in the closet in shelves. I'd love a little bigger room but we built this house not for what we love but what we need.
Thanks for the information. I think that has been the hardest part for us in the planning stage is we too want just what we need and it's so easy to get carried away with little "extra's" and then all of a sudden you back up and realize how much extra space and costs those extra's take up ??? Living in Michigan with 4 kids we would love just a little more space in the laundry hall for the boots as right now one would kill themselves trying to get in our front door (kids just take the shoes off and leave them where they are) I would love to see a picture of your built in closet if you ever get the chance. Thank again for your quick reply and my husband like your newest addition to the home brew!
-Liesl
I thought I had pictures of the closet. Let me check. If I take a pic now, I may end up showing my "laundry" :)
I can't find the picture. I'll get the wife to approve a picture of it and post one. The one thing I wanted in our design was to make sure we didn't have a mortgage. So cash as we go. Building small is perfect for that. You don't have to stay small. You can expand as you want. We are. Wait until I start my new gameroom. d* It's been approved by management.... I can see it now "Scott's Bar" in big neon lights! Not bad for living in the country!
Next phase is beginning. It ha grown a little bit since my original plan. I have added a few more features since this will probably be the last building we build on here....... well, maybe not.. Man cave, wine cellar, walk in humidor, wet bar with the new kegerator, 1/2 bathroom, and it will be built as a home recording studio. We will be connecting it to the "candle house", the first cabin we built on this place.
Part 1, trees were cut.
hmm No dog house?
Where will you sleep when you get into trouble?
It will have 2 sofas and 2 la-z-boys. I think she'll be comfortable out there... :)
Quote from: glenn kangiser on September 30, 2009, 01:22:50 AM
hmm No dog house?
Where will you sleep when you get into trouble?
Speaking about dog houses . . . Where are you at
2:20 AM ??? ;)
Glenn,,,, I need something else to build.... :( I decided not to build the full man cave... But I need something to build..
Root cellar with a summer kitchen above?
I don't think the sand will work for that. Maybe a nice large tree house? I would love to build a fire tower or similar. If I could build above the trees, the views would be awesome.
Quote from: PA-Builder on September 30, 2009, 01:20:49 PM
Quote from: glenn kangiser on September 30, 2009, 01:22:50 AM
hmm No dog house?
Where will you sleep when you get into trouble?
Speaking about dog houses . . . Where are you at 2:20 AM ??? ;)
Not in PA... :)
Quote from: phalynx on December 07, 2009, 11:11:53 PM
I don't think the sand will work for that. Maybe a nice large tree house? I would love to build a fire tower or similar. If I could build above the trees, the views would be awesome.
OK, but it must have a fire pole... I have always wanted one of those.
Quote from: glenn kangiser on December 07, 2009, 11:33:32 PM
Quote from: PA-Builder on September 30, 2009, 01:20:49 PM
Quote from: glenn kangiser on September 30, 2009, 01:22:50 AM
hmm No dog house?
Where will you sleep when you get into trouble?
Speaking about dog houses . . . Where are you at 2:20 AM ??? ;)
Not in PA... :)
This must be a new forum record on the slowest response to a joke..... 2+ months.
Quote from: glenn kangiser on December 07, 2009, 11:36:16 PM
Quote from: phalynx on December 07, 2009, 11:11:53 PM
I don't think the sand will work for that. Maybe a nice large tree house? I would love to build a fire tower or similar. If I could build above the trees, the views would be awesome.
OK, but it must have a fire pole... I have always wanted one of those.
The screeching noise from sliding down a 50' pole would be horrible. I don't think anyone has heard that noise since the last time Cher put on her stage costume.
Quote from: glenn kangiser on December 07, 2009, 11:33:32 PM
Quote from: PA-Builder on September 30, 2009, 01:20:49 PM
Quote from: glenn kangiser on September 30, 2009, 01:22:50 AM
hmm No dog house?
Where will you sleep when you get into trouble?
Speaking about dog houses . . . Where are you at 2:20 AM ??? ;)
Not in PA... :)
I know you are busy Glenn...but two months and eight days for a reply...geesh ! ! ! :o
phalynx, give me a break, it's cold here... ???
Sorry, PA, Sometimes a witty reply doesn't come to me right away... [waiting]
QuoteThe screeching noise from sliding down a 50' pole would be horrible. I don't think anyone has heard that noise since the last time Cher put on her stage costume.
You are not supposed to slide down it naked.... [scared]
Are you sure? Why do women line up to buy those firemen calendars?? I can't imagine they like the trendy coats..... d* Ladies, meet Jose and Jos-b.
.....must restrain myself.......do not type that.....erase that.... what will I type..... hmm ... uh....
Lining up to buy the fireman calendars.... I'm sure they are hoping that I have joined the strike team.... [waiting]
What do you do when you have a large shop but not enough tools to fill it up and you have a need to start writing music again? Well, you put up a new wall and build the next project. Project 137 almost complete...... All custom built.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/console.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/console1.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1034a.jpg)
Crimoney... phalynx the rocket scientist.
I wonder if I li'l bit gets to push your buttons? hmm
I had to stop working on that project to work on my Christmas display project. I decided to put a computerized light show in the middle of no where...... Why not?
Here are my girls contemplating 1/2 mile of wire and 192 connections for the display.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/13643_1169164431772_1307794452_30381261_5411953_n.jpg)
Here is 16,000 lights spread all over the place with a 28' giant tree of lights in the middle.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/13643_1171390767429_1307794452_30386882_5509583_n.jpg)
I think I figured out that I am A D D and A D H D.. At least I know I am not nuts. d*
You will of course show us the final project. I hate it when I watch half of a movie and never get to see the ending. ;D
I wouldn't be so sure about the "being nuts". I see a five string hanging on the wall. ;)
Hmmmm, those aren't upside down tomato cages turned into Christmas trees are they?
Why yes, yes they are. Cheap Chinese tomato cages with 600 lights on each that are very top heavy and fall over in the wind...
Wow!! Nice setup. I get conused wgen there's more than a half dozen sliders. :-[ :-[
I'm looking forward to seeing the lights. :D
Well here is a video of the lights. Its a 33MB video. Sorry it is so large.
http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/christmas09.mov (http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/christmas09.mov)
Quote from: phalynx on December 23, 2009, 09:26:09 PM
Well here is a video of the lights. Its a 33MB video. Sorry it is so large.
http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/christmas09.mov (http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/christmas09.mov)
I never did get it to show. Waited until it said it was done and nothing showed up.
Hmm, do you have Quicktime 7?
Quote from: phalynx on December 23, 2009, 09:57:18 PM
Hmm, do you have Quicktime 7?
Yep but I have no idea what verson it is. I usually don't have a problem when it opens.
Worked here on my Mac. Never checked my Windows machine.
it played fine for me, very nice!
Played on my computer just fine :)
WOW, that was a lot of work! Did you do the music yourselves, too?
That should get some good play if you put it on YouTube - thanks for posting!
Merry Christmas! Pretty impressive 8)
We don't do the music for this (at least this year we didn't). Youtube will ban it instantly due to the last song. That is a very popular song this time of year.
Will Youtube ban it even if the name is not in the credits? I doubt they listen to them all ...do they?
They don't have to listen to them. They have software that instantly determines if the music matches certain songs. Its pretty wild.
Welcome to 1984... [waiting]
Indeed. Google is soon to be the pure technology partner with the government. I believe that is the day that Skynet becomes self-aware... :(
Nothing is sacred - anything you say in range of nearly any digital electronic device is now subject to review by government and others, not that they may necessarily want to do it or do it. With the change to digital TV they are now in nearly every home.
I am hoping the reflection from the top of my head will confuse and blind the satellite spies. All I have to do is take off my hat, throw my fully charged cell phone into someone else's truck and cut my phone line off with an ax..... [waiting]
Digital tv doesn't give them anything from your house. What it does give them is an absolute way to prevent you from getting information from a certain format if they want. Since digital tv is an encrypted format, they can just instruct the tv stations to stop transmitting and you get nothing. Very few people are going to have the equipment to transmit a digital tv signal that you can receive. They can transmit an analog tv signal of which no one has an analog tv anymore...
How about hard wired to cable? I have read that the converter boxes have been found with cameras -mics etc - I have seen that debunked and I have seen the debunking debunked. Is not cable a two way street especially if it supplies internet access also - or satellite dish TV/internet? I think it is possible , no problem.
Hard wired is 2 way yes. Cameras have been hilariously debunked. We aren't there yet but the highway is open... They just need to put the cars on it...
The cameras are up there in the sky.
Seems to be plenty of them too...
Scarier days approach.....
No kidding [scared]
While not smart enough to be really scared I do like to try to keep up with what they are up to.... [waiting]
Yea what's worse is what you have heard is usually years old. I am afraid of what the gubment has currently.
I take solace in the fact that its probably what the gubment wants us to think it has, rather than the reality of it. Remember when they first sent up the Hubbell, and it didn't work, because they decided it would cost too much to test it first. I also take certain joy from all the politicians who keep getting caught with their pants down(so to speak) in this new digital InfoAge.
Phalynx:
Looking through your construction photos I noticed you used purlins with what looks like roofing felt run parallel with the metal. Just wondering how it worked out as this was along the lines of what I am planning for my roof. Any condensation problems?
Thanks!
Quote from: dug on December 28, 2009, 09:08:57 AM
Phalynx:
Looking through your construction photos I noticed you used purlins with what looks like roofing felt run parallel with the metal. Just wondering how it worked out as this was along the lines of what I am planning for my roof. Any condensation problems?
Thanks!
I guess I'm kinda fouled up with the whole idea too. I haven't read back to see what kind of insulation he's going to be packing up against the felt either. Just when I think I've got it, I realize I'm still confused about the whole roof sheathing, felt, metal, and insulation issue. He's gonna spray foam up against the felt? I dunno.
Not to hijack the thread, but if one were to use, say, 1" foam sheathing on the rafters, then purlins for the metal, where would the felt go? On top of the foam board or above the purlins against the metal?
Ugh. Sorry.
There are no condensation problems due to the fact that we put tar paper up. If we hadn't, we would have experienced it like Jimmy Cason did. Although the tar paper is not put on the correct way, it has worked very well and it made it extremely easy to put the metal roofing on. To me, if using perlins, there is no easy or perfect way to put tar paper on. It will bow and sag causing water to possibly catch. Water could technically find its way out of the vertical run tar paper but we haven't seen any issues with that. It is possible though. For us, it was a safety/ease factor that made us do it this way.
We used regular fiberglass insulation. As I have read, the only insulation that doesn't require tar paper is spray on insulation because it directly bonds to the roofing itself leaving no place for moisture/condensation to collect. If you put foam sheets and then purlins, you would still have condensation possibly form on the metal roofing.
My way was not the correct way and really shouldn't be used. But for us, it was the only way we could accomplish it.
Thanks Phalnyx:
I am thinking of using purlins also, one of the big reasons being that putting on the metal would be a whole lot easier and safer. A trusted friend recommended doing it this way, pointing out that you also get a lot better bite with the roofing screws. Maybe it only works well in dry climates (I'm in SW NM). Still contemplating.
I have been looking over your house,you did a great job.
I am building a cabin and using perlins and metal on top ,my ? is on the end walls what did you use to keep out birds from geting in between the end walls and roof where the perlins are .
Do you intend to put on a show rafter and soffit?
Thanks
NIGHTOWL ;)
Thanks! We used 1x4's to fill in the gaps between the purlins on the end. We originally intended to put on a show edge but decided that we liked the simple country look that it gave without and we were lazy. d* But, mostly the look.
Quote from: phalynx on December 30, 2009, 09:49:26 PM
Thanks! We used 1x4's to fill in the gaps between the purlins on the end. We originally intended to put on a show edge but decided that we liked the simple country look that it gave without and we were lazy. d* But, mostly the look.
Thanks for the reply,is your perlins 1x4,s?
NIGHTOWL
They are 1x4's.
One more ? , you put the felt paper 0n top of the perlins from the top of the roof to the bottom one sheet at a time then one sheet of roofing and did you lap it a little each one?
Thanks
NIGHTOWL ;)
We lapped the tar paper about 6" and we would place a sheet of metal wherever we could fit one without more tar paper.
The lunacy continues. We have started construction on a 20x32 building for ME! A man cave/movie theater/future home of the studio/and all around general purpose game room.
Here are the pics from today's build.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1614.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1615.jpg)
Does your wife know about this? ::)
Remember who takes the pictures? d*
do you have a money printing machine?
Sweet. I'll be watching. What kinda sound system are you putting in? Are you going with 5/8" sheetrock or maybe double rock for better acoustics?
Quote from: Jens on January 03, 2010, 08:15:12 PM
do you have a money printing machine?
I don't have a printing machine. I don't have a house payment either and we use that to build everything. Not to mention, building is actually cheap. This one will be under 5K dried in, now that I have all the toys, I mean tools to build. ;D
Quote from: ScottA on January 03, 2010, 08:15:20 PM
Sweet. I'll be watching. What kinda sound system are you putting in? Are you going with 5/8" sheetrock or maybe double rock for better acoustics?
I have a Klipsch system in the house that doesn't get to be used to its fullest. Going to expand it to 7.1 channels. Will be using one of the new cheap 1080P projectors that just came out. Will be using 5/8's sheetrock but only single wall. Living in the country, I don't need the isolation. I am going to build this with 10' walls and T&G wood on the cathedral ceiling. Going to put in exposed beams similar to yours but a little less fancy, unless I talk myself into your design. I think it looks great.
Off the subject for just a moment, please. What size is the fiberglass shower pan in your downstairs bathroom? Thanks.
36"x60" and its WONDERFUL!
when i grow up I want to be like phalynx.
Quote from: muldoon on January 07, 2010, 11:34:46 PM
when i grow up I want to be like phalynx.
Man, don't you want to be something a little better?
Well, a little more progress out here at Wise Acre Farms. Its been cold the past week. This morning it was 9 degrees. We still needed to finish the subfloor. It was completed this afternoon. I will probably pause at this point until I can finalize how I want to configure the walls and roof. I keep trying to go a little bigger. I am thinking of a 1 1/2 story man cave so I can put everything I would ever want in there...and so I won't have to build another one d*
Here is the floor
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1618.jpg)
We attempted to do the subfloor happy dance that everyone else does but we discovered a gravity vortex right in the middle of floor. My wife luckily caught it with the camera.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1633.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1636.jpg)
You better hurry up with getting a roof on so you don't float away. That levitation floor works real good! ;D ;D
After I snapped a couple of the pictures, I quickly set the camera down, grab some rope and tied them to a tree to keep them from floating off :)
lil-bit, why is the big guy floating more than the two little ones? ???
Too much hot air? [noidea'
It could have been the levitating floor and his green outfit that made him float higher than the girls. ;D
Here is (what I believe to be) the final design of the "Phalynx Cave".
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/mancave1.jpg)
You are my hero man! ;) I have been watching a few different builds for the last couple of years and yours always amazes me. I am doing mine on a tight budget and it seems you have been able to keep your spending under control. Like you said building as long as your doing it yourself is cheap especially once you have all the cool tools which many can be bought at Harbor Freight. I see a lot of these small cabins costing 70-100K. Also you seem very good about keeping busy. Probably like you I beleive in someone else can do it then I can also. Pick up a book, use common sense and trial and error. Not to say I can do it as good or fast as a pro, but I can afford to try several times in lou of paying someone else. Keep up the great work and check out my progress over the next couple months. c*
I'm wondering what's going to happen when he runs out of building space? ???
Maybe he'll try going underground again but on a smaller scale. :)
Quote from: Johnbrakingground on January 10, 2010, 11:04:27 PM
You are my hero man!
Thanks! I finally have achieved hero status. I can't wait to get my new certification card in the mail.. Building is actually fun and cheap. Two things that go great together.
Quote from: MountainDon on January 10, 2010, 11:12:43 PM
I'm wondering what's going to happen when he runs out of building space? ???
I have about 11 more acres I haven't touched yet... 2 acres are going to be a vineyard soon so that leaves 9. The acreage next door can be bought for another 10... I'll be good for another 3-4 years!
Quote from: glenn kangiser on January 10, 2010, 11:17:16 PM
Maybe he'll try going underground again but on a smaller scale. :)
Don't worry Glenn, I will. I've got plans/dreams baby! Not to mention I have always dreamed of having a cool home with secret passages and such. Since my projects are too small to conceal any space in it, that leaves underground. soon... soon. d*
Here is an updated picture with all of its man glory. I may hang Dewalt posters all over the walls too!
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/mancave2.jpg)
Quote from: phalynx on January 10, 2010, 11:27:50 PM
Quote from: Johnbrakingground on January 10, 2010, 11:04:27 PM
You are my hero man!
Thanks! I finally have achieved hero status. I can't wait to get my new certification card in the mail.. Building is actually fun and cheap. Two things that go great together.
Quote from: MountainDon on January 10, 2010, 11:12:43 PM
I'm wondering what's going to happen when he runs out of building space? ???
I have about 11 more acres I haven't touched yet... 2 acres are going to be a vineyard soon so that leaves 9. The acreage next door can be bought for another 10... I'll be good for another 3-4 years!
Quote from: glenn kangiser on January 10, 2010, 11:17:16 PM
Maybe he'll try going underground again but on a smaller scale. :)
Don't worry Glenn, I will. I've got plans/dreams baby! Not to mention I have always dreamed of having a cool home with secret passages and such. Since my projects are too small to conceal any space in it, that leaves underground. soon... soon. d*
We're like twins, man..... I have secret passages too... shhhhh
I want one of those pictures on the wall I can look through the eyeholes in and look to the left and right... you know what I mean... [waiting]
I played with my first backhoe 3 weeks ago. I just have to talk Lil' bit into one. I enjoyed it. It was confusing for sure. Took me a while to get the hang of it. Deeper/better holes to come soon.
Make sure it has a loader bucket on it and I would suggest 4 wheel drive for your sand.
She knows you need it and secretly wants you to have it.... [waiting]
Oh Lil' bit! I need this!!!!
(http://www.activefarming.org/files/1800164%20Bernard%20Deyarmond%20(2).JPG)
Nice plan. What are you mixing in that corner? ???
Quote from: poppy on January 11, 2010, 12:11:53 PM
Nice plan. What are you mixing in that corner? ???
Ha,,, you'll have to look back to see what. But, here is a hint.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/console1.jpg)
OK, I should have remembered. Like the lava lamps.
Nice studio.
I went to audio school for college. Decided it wasn't for me but still enjoy recording.
My big claim to fame so far is a ran sound (by my lonesome) for Rodger McQuinn of the Byrds this past year. He was a nice guy to deal with.
looks like you have enough tracks for a big band ;)
too bad you have those Macintoshes taking up so much space c*
just kidding.
I have fixed enough macs for a long time . grrr
Quote from: speedfunk on January 11, 2010, 08:49:40 PM
too bad you have those Macintoshes taking up so much space c*
just kidding.
I have fixed enough macs for a long time . grrr
Would you believe that by day I am a Microsoft AD Architect?
"Building is actually fun and cheap."
well, I guess everything is relative
Quote from: Jens on January 11, 2010, 10:26:02 PM
"Building is actually fun and cheap."
well, I guess everything is relative
Ok, building is relatively fun and relatively cheap. It is actually both.
Quote from: phalynx on January 11, 2010, 08:55:46 PM
Quote from: speedfunk on January 11, 2010, 08:49:40 PM
too bad you have those Macintoshes taking up so much space c*
just kidding.
I have fixed enough macs for a long time . grrr
Would you believe that by day I am a Microsoft AD Architect?
That is funny. I know macs are supposed to be good for audio and video. I've always used a PC for everything , the same apps are often available for PC.
Audio and computer/network tech must go together. I have my MCSE as well :) I am diversifying though. Last year I was consulting and put in a SLES domain PDC :) It was a challenge but it's been running solid :) WOrks with the Windows world quite well.
Quote from: speedfunk on January 12, 2010, 10:53:24 PM
Quote from: phalynx on January 11, 2010, 08:55:46 PM
Quote from: speedfunk on January 11, 2010, 08:49:40 PM
too bad you have those Macintoshes taking up so much space c*
just kidding.
I have fixed enough macs for a long time . grrr
Would you believe that by day I am a Microsoft AD Architect?
That is funny. I know macs are supposed to be good for audio and video. I've always used a PC for everything , the same apps are often available for PC.
Audio and computer/network tech must go together. I have my MCSE as well :) I am diversifying though. Last year I was consulting and put in a SLES domain PDC :) It was a challenge but it's been running solid :) WOrks with the Windows world quite well.
HA,,, I actually went back to AD from my previous gig. I was an Enterprise Storage Architect before for a huge company. I hated the hours. If you follow my thread you can actually tell the moment I switched back from storage architect to AD architect. (It's when we went from slowly building a small cabin over 6 months to building an entire house shell in 4.. c* I do like my current gig. Great pay (not as much) but only need to work 40-50 hours per week instead of 90.
Playing around a little more with the design. In this version, the music equipment stays in the existing studio. This allows a pool table and the ability to smoke a cigar in the "Cave" without damaging expensive studio gear and computers. Any thoughts compared to the previous? As usual Lil 'bit sits outside. ???
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/20x32rev2a.gif)
Just some quick thoughts.
I would want a good view of the big screen from the bar.
What happened to the poker table?
Like the idea of pool table and cigar smoking.
Can you live without natural light or ventilation from the wall of little rooms?
Quote from: poppy on January 13, 2010, 12:01:11 PM
Just some quick thoughts.
I would want a good view of the big screen from the bar.
What happened to the poker table?
Like the idea of pool table and cigar smoking.
Can you live without natural light or ventilation from the wall of little rooms?
There will actually be no windows in the building. I want to absolutely control the dark for the movies. The poker table will be there, just don't know where yet. I had the screen and couches reversed for the very reason you stated (view from bar) but I need the little partition wall next to the speaker to even out the sound and having it on the other side would affect the pool playing ability. I did decide, in this design, I would add a TV on the wall opposite of the bar.
Shouldn't the Kegerator be in a more central location?
I'm a big fan of two doors as well, especially if there are no windows.
Quote from: Pine Cone on January 13, 2010, 02:26:26 PM
Shouldn't the Kegerator be in a more central location?
I'm a big fan of two doors as well, especially if there are no windows.
Kegerator is stored in a closet and will be hosed to the bar itself.
why are you hiding your kegerator? another thing to consider about those long hoses; they have to balance and be tuned. long beer lines require more pressure to serve the beer.
Beer Line Resistance Guide
3/16" I.D. plastic beer line 2.7 PSI per foot
1/4" I.D. plastic beer line 0.7 PSI per foot
5/16" I.D. plastic beer line 0.17 PSI per foot
3/8" I.D. plastic beer line 0.11 PSI per foot
1/2" I.D. plastic beer line 0.025 PSI per foot
so, if you have 15 feet of beer line in 3/8 inside diameter, you need to push an extra 2 psi over your target ~ I like 6-7psi at the tap. You also need to keep the temperature steady over the course of the beer line as it is outside the kegerator, so insulated lines - which are a pain to keep clean. (you know you need to clean them every week right? ) As the beer warms, it releases co2 - which will lead to a cup full of foam on long beer line runs.
Have you considered a chest freezer dressed up as a kegerator? you dont have to have the tower, and can make it fit into your mancave pretty simply.
Muldoon, I had figured on doing insulated runs from the kegerator. It currently has 5/16" lines so I should be good on pressure. We run about 8 psi right now and its just right with just the perfect amount of lacing. I wanted to put the kegerator as close to the bar as possible to minimize the warm up of the beer. I do have a freezerator though. I built it several months ago and its beautiful. I wanted to put it in a closet so it wouldn't be loud and made sure it would have enough room to get the kegs in and out.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/photo-8.jpg)
I think I found you a new sound mixer for your addition. But looking at it you might have to add on a little more to make it fit.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6MHpFIyjcY
I just got off the phone with a spray foam insulation guy here in Austin. He is going to spray the entire mancave with opencell (roof, walls, floor) and go ahead and spray 3" under the house as well. (I am tired of cold floors). All of that for just over $3000. I figure thats a pretty good deal based on what I have read about.
Did a little work today. In my mind I sure work a lot faster. I thought for sure I would have all 4 walls up by tomorrow night. Instead, I have 1 up tonight. I guess I'll get 1 or 2 up tomorrow. I did have to spend some time figuring out these new wall jacks. I was terrified the wall would kick out from the bottom plate and fall on us. No such incident occurred. In fact, it seemed as safe as could be. Absolutely the way to go. Money well spent. Here are the progress pictures from today.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1641.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1647.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1649.jpg)
phalynx as a little safety hint I always toenail the bottom plate into the subfloor on the inside with 8-10d and they act as hinges and keep the bottom plate from moving while lifting. Just lay out where the inside of the plate will sit with a chaulk line and alaign the top of the bottom plate with that and toenail.
Fantastic! You are really moving along . . .
Where did you purchase those wall jacks?
I have always built my walls in sections and then sheathed later. You have made raising this wall look way to easy . . . Also, I noticed that you have already doubled the top plate before the raise.
Anyone have an idea how to fasten the wall jacks to a concrete pad so it won't slip while raising the walls?
/
Tapcons?
I bought them from Amazon. I didn't think about toenailing. That would work. I'll do that tomorrow. Once we got over the fear, raising was a piece of cake.
Quote from: phalynx on January 16, 2010, 11:07:44 PM
I bought them from Amazon. I didn't think about toenailing. That would work. I'll do that tomorrow. Once we got over the fear, raising was a piece of cake.
The wall jacks aren't cheap! You may consider renting them . . . (Hint, Hint) ;D
Quote from: Redoverfarm on January 16, 2010, 11:05:49 PM
Tapcons?
I would be concerned that the screws would let loose while lifting. Would setting the jacks floor base on a piece of lumber and then Tapcon the wood to the concrete work better? It might help spread out the load.
/
if you take pieces of banding steel from you lumber delivery, and cut them into pieces about 8" long, they make great hinges for this. Nail a piece to the subfloor so that it sits under the wall, and bend it around the bottom plate. Nail to the bottom plate with 2 8d nails, when the plate is in the right place on the chalkline. If you place them on or near a stud, you won't have to worry about hitting them when you drill for electrical or plumbing, but you must nail them to the floor before inserting the stud between the plates. One 16d toenail in each end of the bottom plate (with it lined up on the chalkline), and a hinge every 4 feet or so, will keep the bottom of the wall in place while you square up you wall and apply sheathing. If you don't have a sheathing inspection, wrap the wall with tyvek before you raise it. Extend the tyvek a couple of feet on each end, and the bottom, then fold it back and temp secure it with staples. Makes it a lot easier.
Redover, you are a GENIUS!!! Toenailing was perfect. I had to work it out in my head and then do a quick test to see it in action. It did exactly what it was supposed to.
Wall #2 up. Went up very quickly.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1652.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1653.jpg)
Wall #3 went up even faster minus some siding. Can't raise it with the end siding on. Really getting the hang of these wall jacks. They are worth every single penny.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1654.jpg)
I wouldn't go that far but I do have my days. ;D
How about slightly evil genius? :)
Quote from: phalynx on January 17, 2010, 09:04:57 PM
How about slightly evil genius? :)
A West Virginia's own Dr. Evil. ONE Milllllion dollars!
Maybe this will help some that are looking for the wall jacks:
http://www.qualcraft.com/pdf/peevee.pdf
http://www.amazon.com/Qual-Craft-2601-Wall-Jack/dp/B0000224MY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1263848774&sr=8-1
http://www.amazon.com/Qual-Craft-2602-Wind-Hook-Accessory/dp/B0009H5RXY/ref=pd_bxgy_hi_img_b
Those are the exact wall jacks I purchased. Make sure you get the wind hook accessory. The combination of the wind hook and the toe nailing created a safety envelope I was happy with. Well worth the money. Renting is great if you can do it all in one weekend. If you are slow like me then buying is the cheapest way.
We have 4 walls and ceiling joists now..
Here I am trying out my cave.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1657.jpg)
Lookin' good.
Hey! Slow down! You think this is some kind of GAME or something?
The least you could do is to look tired or something.
Looks like we're movin' back down to Westlake. With the bad real estate market and local economic situation, NE OK has become impossible to sustain.
Been forever since I've had some decent food. Trudy's still around? Cisco's?
Salivating just thinking about Huevos rancheros at Cisco's. My luck it's probably a fern bar now.
Lookin' good!
Quote from: RainDog on January 22, 2010, 06:55:31 AM
Hey! Slow down! You think this is some kind of GAME or something?
The least you could do is to look tired or something.
Looks like we're movin' back down to Westlake. With the bad real estate market and local economic situation, NE OK has become impossible to sustain.
Been forever since I've had some decent food. Trudy's still around? Cisco's?
Salivating just thinking about Huevos rancheros at Cisco's. My luck it's probably a fern bar now.
Lookin' good!
I thought the race was "First one to get 10 buildings complete wins"?
Trudy's and Cisco's are still there. Austin is actually doing fairly well in this economy. Don't forget about a steak burrito at Chuy's...... mmmmmmmm
Rafters are up, attic is floored. 1/2 of the roof has purlins installed. Tomorrow, the purlins will be finished and the roof panels installed.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1661.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1663.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1662.jpg)
Nice progress, but if this is a race, then call me Toilet Paper because I'm bringing up the rear. :P
Poppy? That's uh... just plain weird.
;D
I don't like to sit on my rear unless its in my man cave.. :) So I am chuggin right along. The weather has been extra nice so I want to take advantage of it as well. We got 1/2 of the roof up and tomorrow night we should have the other half. Ran out of staples of all things...
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1665.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1668.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1669.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1670.jpg)
Well I'm roofin on up!!!!,,,,(roofin on up), to the Southside... To a sheet metal man cave, in the sky..... Now everybody sing!
Got the other side of the roof on. Scaffolding shows up today to finish the sides.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1671.jpg)
I need some of whatever you're taking.
Boundless energy! Lookin' good.
That's impressive. phalynx.
Quote from: glenn kangiser on January 29, 2010, 10:56:37 AM
That's impressive. phalynx.
My singing or my McManCave? I have been trying to come up with a name for it. Manitopia, Manitarium, Man-Mahal, NoMam, NeManderHall, and my favorite so far, The Ball Room.
Anyone else have some ideas?
Um... those are all great names.
I mean, if you're opening a gay bar...
Hey, how about Man-Hole?
;D
Hahahah,,, that IS a problem of naming a mancave... Maybe it should be named something like, "Women are allowed but you can't touch the remote, or sit there, or ....."
Testosteroom?
With all of the bad weather, we have been slow going. We did get 1 days worth of work yesterday. Here are the progress pictures.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1689.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1690.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1691.jpg)
I think I would paint it all camoflauge for the assessor. ;D
Just an update. Been doing a lot of cleanup around this place lately. Using my new tool a lot removing stumps. Look Glenn, I am just like you!! Well, not so much, but I can dig a little deeper now..... for the underground fun later on.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1822.jpg)
We have decided to finally go ahead with our vineyard. Its something we have been wanting to do for a while and finally decided to get started. It will take 5 years to be in full production and hopefully, at that point, I'll be able to quit my job and work at the vineyard/winery full time here. We'll see.
Hey Big Guy....
That is a beauty of a machine. Congrats. You're gonna love it.
You don't drink wine do you... [noidea'
I'm worried about your being able to manage the business for profit... [waiting]
Don't think I can wait that long. Better just buy a bottle and ship it to me. ;) Got to have a name. Better get suggestions.
Unless I am a little mistaken don't you think that is a little too deep for graps vines. d*
I do drink wine here and there. We'll be making wine over the next 5 years. We just won't be able to use our grapes exclusively. We'll have to purchase grapes from other vineyards to supplement.
As for the tractor, we've had it for a few years. We just added the backhoe to it and relegated it to backhoe duty primarily. I upgraded to a little bigger machine to handle the rest of the jobs around here which seem to get bigger and bigger.. d*
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1728.jpg)
Did I mention it gets hot in Texas?
this project still looking to come in around 5k?
Which project? I have about 5 running right now.
the current manshed you estimated a while back d* i suppose I should have specified
Its tracking to be about $5300 at this point.
Reconstructed the driveway today. Made it straight down the middle of the property in preparation for the vineyard.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1834.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1838.jpg)
"I'll be able to quit my job and work at the vineyard/winery full time here. We'll see."
What is your job BTW? Did you ever finish the house proper?
Quote from: Jens on March 01, 2010, 07:12:33 PM
What is your job BTW? Did you ever finish the house proper?
Would you believe a Microsoft Active Directory Architect in addition to a Enterprise Storage Architect. IT guys have other talents.... would you believe it if I hadn't told you?
well, I used to install voice and data networks. A friend of mine is a web developer, and has successfully renovated two houses of his own, and helped out on others, so, yes I would believe you. Did the main house ever end up getting finished? Last photo I remember seeing had the sheetrock hung but no mud.
Oh yea, go back about 10 pages. All painted, carpeted, etc. All good except a kitchen floor...
Here are some pictures of our latest work on the "man cave". Electrical stubbed, insulation going up, starting building the wine cellar, humidor, and bathroom.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1882.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1884.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1883.jpg)
Some updates today.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1887.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1888.jpg)
What do you do when you want to move one of your buildings? wrap a strap around it, attach it to a large tractor and PULL!! We moved the "candle house" from behind the main house to just on the side. This will give us the necessary room to build the rear porch/deck and put in a nice little garden area.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1893.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1897.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1902.jpg)
Then we ran the electrical from the candle house feed and splice it to run to the man cave. From there I will run a feed to the candle house.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1904.jpg)
It was a long weekend. The move did not go as initially planned. After some rethinking, we managed to get it moved. All in all, it was worth it.
And for the one thing that I learned is best to sub out, drywall. I have the same crew that finished up my drywall mess in the main house come back and drywall the mancave. They do a great job and I haven't even broke a sweat.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1913.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1910.jpg)
Quote from: phalynx on March 30, 2010, 01:32:50 PM
And for the one thing that I learned is best to sub out, drywall. I have the same crew that finished up my drywall mess in the main house come back and drywall the mancave. They do a great job and I haven't even broke a sweat.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1910.jpg)
I was thinking professionals until I saw this picture. I was always taught to start on one wall and "Hold 'em tight". But I guess they knew what they were doing. You are right, it is a lot easier to farm out that portion. I did it a few summers in high school, enough to know it was not to be my chosen profession. I have done it a few times since then, enough to reinforce my initial decision.
I wouldn't have thought it would have worked either. I can tell you these guys are good. I always thought you had to sand your mud to get it smooth. They just smiled and said, no, you thin the mud a little. They did the house and you couldn't find a joint if you wanted to. I wouldn't have done it the way they did on the ceiling, but I would have left joint marks so I can't question them . d*
Progress, progress, progress. Man, stuff happens fast when you don't have to do it yourself.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1935.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1934.jpg)
Nice...
I used to hate the stilts. Lucky thing is that I'm 6'1. I could reach most from the ground. My dad used to hate me when he was walking around on the stilts.
The taping goes surprisingly fast, especially when you're not doing it. We impressed many homeowners...even when we were taking it easy.
Nice job!
Walls painted, ceiling painted (needs to be touched up), floor down. Next is hooking up all of the electrical. That shouldn't be too difficult. I seem to have done it about 15 times before now..
Yes, the pictures are dark. The walls are a dark brown/green and there are no real lights in there yet. So its a camera lighting problem currently.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1988.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1992.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1993.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1994.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_1995.jpg)
Now you need a laser tag set.
d* Not big enough. :( But with fog!!! coooooooool.
Some updated images. Starting trim work which I really do poorly :(
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_2137.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_2138.jpg)
Wife liked the floor in the man cave so much, we decided to install it in the kitchen in the house.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_2139.jpg)
Looks great, Big Guy. :)
We did a little work on the bar tonight. One of my better construction efforts. I think its turning out pretty nice.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_2219.jpg)
Looking really good. I like it!
Yep, bar looks great. :)
Yessir, the bar is looking really good.......so far....BUT...IMHO, where is the brass foot rail, the big ol' basket of salted in the shell peanuts(and of course ya throw the shells on the floor), and most of all.....Where is the big ol' nekkid lady picture????
In time, in time... All in the plans...... Except the nekkid lady pic..... Dunno about that one. I have kids and although it is a man cave, someone has to clean it!!!! d*
Well, in that case, the dogs playing poker would also look good, expecially if you can find the painted on velvet version. :D
Today's project.... The back deck for Mother's Day....
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_2257.jpg)
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/DSC_2258.jpg)
I was wondering if a couple of items you used were custom, or "Texas special" items, the leaded glass front door and the craftsmen styled "Texas Star design". By the way, have you ever visited the Jesse Winchester house, I'm just asking ;)
Winchester House,,,, no never got to tour it. I drove by it. I think it should be model of what I could do if I keep going....
Hows things in Texas. Have you ran out of room yet? ;D
Texas is "ok". We are currently fixing/finishing the place up so we can sell it. I need to build something new. d* That, and I will be moving. We have figured out we want to move to Northern Idaho. So, everything we are doing now is to get up there and maximize our sale of this place. Hopefully, the labor will give us plenty of cash to buy land and build a new place.
Quote from: phalynx on November 04, 2010, 09:33:02 PM
Texas is "ok".
I'm sorry sir, but you are incorrect. Oklahoma is ok. Texas is great! ;D
All that work and now you're selling it?? :o
Wow, I could never do that. Least O don't think I could. :(
Things change, opportunities arise and all learning accumulates...
Nice job on the current project an here's to a spectacular next one!
So, things do change. We attempted to find another place to move to but it just doesn't make financial sense. So, we are staying here.. :) I know, I know. I reserve the right to change my mind again..... d*
Now, I have a problem forming on my home. My posts are starting to lean on one end of my house. 1 corner has shifted/angled 3/4" and it's pair has shifted about 3/8". The next post in line of the 3/4" one hasn't moved much, only about 1/4" and the middle one is plumb. On the 3/8" one, the next one is about 1/4" and the next one plumb.
I need a plan of attack. I have several hydraulic jacks (one air powered which I am in love with). All of them are 12 ton jacks. What does everyone think is the best way to a) shore it up b) correct it and c) keep it from happening again. Let's use the Countryplans member's wealth of knowledge and get me happy again.
The problem seems to have happened over the last year. I have stared at it several times over the last year and thought I may be imagining things. Now, I know otherwise. I don't believe it is in serious danger at all but it will over the next year or so. Better to fix now.
Here are some pictures.
This is the back one that is 3/4" out. The post is also warping a little so it looks worse. There is about 1/4" of warp on it.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/CIMG0216.jpg)
This is the front one which is about 1/2" out.
(http://www.ouramericanadventure.com/coppermine/albums/userpics/10001/CIMG0217.jpg)
Great projects and great thread. I just read through the whole thing, what an inspiration seeing all the projects done.
Thanks Phalynx!
Just to confirm ...all those extra buildings look like you just built them on the 16x16 pads. Was any other piers/support placed under it or anything to "tie" it down? Just wondering cause i did mine that way...just sitting on blocks.
All of the other buildings are just sitting on the 16x16x4 blocks. The sand below is almost rock hard if undisturbed. So, far, nothing has moved much. I have had 2 blocks sink a little but it was jacked up and shimmed. No different than a mobile home except the "hurricane straps".
Even the post shown in the picture above never actually moved. It just warped. Everything is solid. It could be better I suppose. If I used hurricane straps, it would be better but I figure not much will survive if the winds get that high anyway. All the trees around here will fall over and do a ton of damage.
Thank You. That is what I was thinking ....if a tornado come along with winds that strong it will make a mess no matter what. Everything looks really good man!!!