tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79500159347051019852024-03-12T17:59:21.113-07:00The Perpetual RemodelerRemodeling Advice and Information for Homeowners and Contractors by Parks ConstructionThe Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-8763325257793537672011-10-06T14:03:00.001-07:002016-01-03T10:07:59.479-08:00Bathroom Remodel<span style="font-size: large;">This Bathroom didn't look all that bad from the first impression. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">There were a few tell tale signs that I saw on the initial inspection . . . Some of the tile had separation lines. The tub was a whirlpool tub with a shower head. The tub was not designed to have a shower head and the window had tile cracks and black grout lines. I could smell trouble . . . and the smell of trouble was mold.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I told the Realtor and prospective owner that I needed permission to do a little exploratory surgery. Under the window on the exterior would be an ideal location. The following picture was what I found behind the siding, from my test hole . . . Pretty ugly! Looked like a total gut out job, remove the tub, exterior wall and floor under the tub and then rebuild it all.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxkBRZoMXS2xh3sAFVCIDgNmz-Hh2Hx_ezP2MYdztfGhfoSiS_Fi8l_3fS27olsLRHt54-cpmKGeXSUxUUMG8A5ZtuGQapQ4WaCqUYLahlVNH8bU2_jBbQgp6EtiAumH2mXCnq2AwHtC2/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxkBRZoMXS2xh3sAFVCIDgNmz-Hh2Hx_ezP2MYdztfGhfoSiS_Fi8l_3fS27olsLRHt54-cpmKGeXSUxUUMG8A5ZtuGQapQ4WaCqUYLahlVNH8bU2_jBbQgp6EtiAumH2mXCnq2AwHtC2/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I suggested going with a normal tub, moving the plumbing to an end wall and take the shower head out of the ceiling. The extra space could be used for storage and moving the window to the end of the wall and out of the tub space,would take it out of the shower and away from the water that had caused the problem in the first place. </span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdvA5OKklSLWpPi2Yf01QTyah-O7rsEZTWy9uSzBDzkbFPaNchCFRCHVsxxGq6SrmgD1eACiFVfdvmvF-ClavSgNPn8aDKI1xDCLZ8WLVSbmAXy0-Uy_H116xq4mqOixS4_zKaeQ0rcjpa/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdvA5OKklSLWpPi2Yf01QTyah-O7rsEZTWy9uSzBDzkbFPaNchCFRCHVsxxGq6SrmgD1eACiFVfdvmvF-ClavSgNPn8aDKI1xDCLZ8WLVSbmAXy0-Uy_H116xq4mqOixS4_zKaeQ0rcjpa/s400/007.JPG" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">The owner agreed and I removed the tub. What a Mess! Everything was pretty far gone and would require re-framing the floor, walls and floor replacement. The plumbing had to be re-located for the new tub location. After a couple of long days the bathroom looked and smelled like a completely different room.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0l8-w-SMEe61THjzupXcgRxlVuPURPo4y8vT3fVfXRkLCYvLKSi0qe06Q3UYt87tDf3m-vL6DGe4DZmd5hG3J7PqQSIws1Jr3OouNUWkdT_GFaSvS8pbYvjs0b-4s7IrpjSa3j-LFKo-e/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0l8-w-SMEe61THjzupXcgRxlVuPURPo4y8vT3fVfXRkLCYvLKSi0qe06Q3UYt87tDf3m-vL6DGe4DZmd5hG3J7PqQSIws1Jr3OouNUWkdT_GFaSvS8pbYvjs0b-4s7IrpjSa3j-LFKo-e/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0l8-w-SMEe61THjzupXcgRxlVuPURPo4y8vT3fVfXRkLCYvLKSi0qe06Q3UYt87tDf3m-vL6DGe4DZmd5hG3J7PqQSIws1Jr3OouNUWkdT_GFaSvS8pbYvjs0b-4s7IrpjSa3j-LFKo-e/s320/009.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">The owners were using the house for a rental and were anxious to get the project completed and also to have a normal - low maintenance bathroom. The Kohler tub and surround were made from a cast plastic that is quite rigid and also had the advantage of being </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KeVGtWksQeFPvaxdeG5gGCQwzNsjyAlGE7Ll_c73h0dBJub57_Fpd_sTU67S5As4xOz0lRlE-N-mxT3cqWNvvl4glE-HYjai8PskqvLyh_8AJOOR0-HRKhxU-D0cwqoJqpA4JDkzuYrc/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KeVGtWksQeFPvaxdeG5gGCQwzNsjyAlGE7Ll_c73h0dBJub57_Fpd_sTU67S5As4xOz0lRlE-N-mxT3cqWNvvl4glE-HYjai8PskqvLyh_8AJOOR0-HRKhxU-D0cwqoJqpA4JDkzuYrc/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KeVGtWksQeFPvaxdeG5gGCQwzNsjyAlGE7Ll_c73h0dBJub57_Fpd_sTU67S5As4xOz0lRlE-N-mxT3cqWNvvl4glE-HYjai8PskqvLyh_8AJOOR0-HRKhxU-D0cwqoJqpA4JDkzuYrc/s400/012.JPG" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">a deeper than normal soaking tub, without the additional cost of purchasing a custom unit. I was impressed with the interlocking - no caulk 3 piece tub surround. In the past these units required caulk that would discolor and mildew, which is unsightly and a maintenance item. The walls were cast with integral support ribs that made the surround rigid and durable. The interlocking seams directed all water back into the tub.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcJ1kTAJNoGYZhqIyv6WhKyv-hCSp94gDT9qzXTWfLOU3Wv_V7YYn6SUnyjC-nf0MawDb_359JyzpMiuHRlbkZMet0yW-9DTBTZBuy4SSmOziewigs3lWSZMwpZ5bqSC0Wd2XpgOV3l2D/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcJ1kTAJNoGYZhqIyv6WhKyv-hCSp94gDT9qzXTWfLOU3Wv_V7YYn6SUnyjC-nf0MawDb_359JyzpMiuHRlbkZMet0yW-9DTBTZBuy4SSmOziewigs3lWSZMwpZ5bqSC0Wd2XpgOV3l2D/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcJ1kTAJNoGYZhqIyv6WhKyv-hCSp94gDT9qzXTWfLOU3Wv_V7YYn6SUnyjC-nf0MawDb_359JyzpMiuHRlbkZMet0yW-9DTBTZBuy4SSmOziewigs3lWSZMwpZ5bqSC0Wd2XpgOV3l2D/s400/014.JPG" width="300" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">The space beyond the tub/shower wall held a 24" storage cabinet and I had a piece of Granite countertop that was a close match to the existing laminate vanity top to cap off the cabinet. I re-used the vinyl window after cleaning it up. The whole project came in on budget and will work well for years to come with very little maintenance required.</span>The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-76024615328420942112010-06-26T10:21:00.000-07:002010-06-26T11:02:28.032-07:00Molding and Trim - Make a Big Difference<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKQg6mPEToc6hTUOCUKmBvT_9DVPyR7Q-fxnCWVFHX_MGmfYOcwWdBhO1ZwfXaC2CPITiTo2K5ubU8BynCJe5VZy54SymgjKaNYWUFik9BzBfMWAJcg-Jdohn5vZN7jmZd97AaJ1fo0Ar/s1600/Entry+Trim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKQg6mPEToc6hTUOCUKmBvT_9DVPyR7Q-fxnCWVFHX_MGmfYOcwWdBhO1ZwfXaC2CPITiTo2K5ubU8BynCJe5VZy54SymgjKaNYWUFik9BzBfMWAJcg-Jdohn5vZN7jmZd97AaJ1fo0Ar/s640/Entry+Trim.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<strong><em>I pressed in the code and the gate opened, inviting me into a very impressive neighborhood. The homes were all beautiful, custom masterpieces that had spectacular water views.</em></strong> My destination was at the end of the Cul de Sac down a steep driveway. The home was large and had a commanding view of the bay. <em><strong>It was a truly gorgeous site</strong></em>. Upon entering the home, there was immediately the feeling that something wasn't right. The stair case was hideous and tight. The doors and windows were trimmed with 2 1/4" Colonial Casing. The base molding was 2 1/2" Colonial base. <strong><em> Nothing fit with the home or the setting, it was actually disturbing and unsettling.</em></strong><br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbG05x2gJ4b5H4XOsfxQ5MjU99BoHnk5dX5zazLVHsy65EdIf-pFIYcziN-Dg4OtGu6PSGPwolsqktnugbUiYrhGYGwpDb-IMyopNWoBBWQQO7xzsOP6hvI8cugs-1kMJHVSTBYdFyRKV_/s1600/Living+Room+Trim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbG05x2gJ4b5H4XOsfxQ5MjU99BoHnk5dX5zazLVHsy65EdIf-pFIYcziN-Dg4OtGu6PSGPwolsqktnugbUiYrhGYGwpDb-IMyopNWoBBWQQO7xzsOP6hvI8cugs-1kMJHVSTBYdFyRKV_/s400/Living+Room+Trim.jpg" width="400" /></a> <em><strong><span style="color: #990000;"> I sat with the owners and told them frankly what I was feeling. They described feeling exactly the same way, every time they sat in their Living </span><span style="color: #990000;">Room</span></strong></em>.<br />
They gave me the go ahead and I started in the downstairs family room and worked my way through the house, converting it to the Home they desired. I apologize for not taking any before pictures, the pictures I took are of the finished product. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> The window trim is a three piece trim that I designed using two profiles and flat stock. I matched the profile in the arch windows over the Entry, Living Room and Master Bedroom, so that everything had continuity. It makes the room feel warm and inviting. <strong><em>The ceilings are all tall or cathedral, so it was begging for wainscot paneling.</em></strong> I do not use the drywall finish and apply molding when I build wainscot panels, it really feels flat and fake. Using a 1/4" thick paint grade panel (MDF) makes all the difference in the substantial feeling of the panels. I also think a matching profile of panel molding adds a lot of character and depth to the stiles and rails of the paneling.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxkrKUTcvCJywZ8hj0YLkhyaDMbkTth2rOz2C0axdbPwvybO85sGg-NZJnlcDgG6d0nSN5V96VYMQFuJEM_tVUzLsongFRTBmrR_35YNmVfDLfiqf-wPam9GJaH3nrQ8DxML8kEYhAmPB/s1600/Base+Trim+Detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxkrKUTcvCJywZ8hj0YLkhyaDMbkTth2rOz2C0axdbPwvybO85sGg-NZJnlcDgG6d0nSN5V96VYMQFuJEM_tVUzLsongFRTBmrR_35YNmVfDLfiqf-wPam9GJaH3nrQ8DxML8kEYhAmPB/s320/Base+Trim+Detail.jpg" width="320" /></a> Base molding details are critical to achieve the </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">right feeling. The stairwell walls had a drywall radius bull nose. To make the wainscot and base look right I made up corners with 22 1/2 degree bevels to tie the wall, wainscot and base together. It is a lot of cutting and fitting, but well worth the extra work.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> The stairs were carpeted plywood, so I ripped it all out and installed Oak treads. I pre-finished the treads and added paint grade risers. The stair handrail was a very dark purplish/black color so I stripped it down, sanded it and refinished it to match the natural color of the flooring.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmYx92WU4eZFVeuxwSunx4hjCQ7JPxbi9AziZtximj8x5HVJ-sdivLcYTl0u-u8qRfnkiFhtfSYfwcmnnMttL858pSzAjiBthSPgs18qqnqQeGIJwSz9IF9FbTpLs4zcGB1xHPi1d2_ic/s1600/Dining+Room+Trim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmYx92WU4eZFVeuxwSunx4hjCQ7JPxbi9AziZtximj8x5HVJ-sdivLcYTl0u-u8qRfnkiFhtfSYfwcmnnMttL858pSzAjiBthSPgs18qqnqQeGIJwSz9IF9FbTpLs4zcGB1xHPi1d2_ic/s320/Dining+Room+Trim.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> The cap detail on the windows and doors is a piece of crown molding with a 3/4" thick shelf that sticks out 3/4" past the crown. It creates a nice finish detail and gives a rich feeling to the wide trim. The Tuscan columns are part of the existing home and were not added by me.<br />
<br />
The upstairs family room adjoins the kitchen and a dining nook and are all open to each other. It forms a great room, where the family naturally tend to gravitate and gather together. The ceiling of this large area was flat and unadorned. I really wanted to put in a coffer beam ceiling and match the wood and finish of the kitchen cabinets.<br />
<br />
The owners gave me the go ahead, so I proceede. The Maple lumber and Crown Molding were purchased from Continental Hardwoods in Kent, WA. In my shop I fabricated the beams and pre-finished them. <strong><em>Maple is a hardwood that does not accept stain like other woods</em></strong>, so it requires a lot more work to finish than most other hardwoods.<br />
<br />
I pre-sealed the Maple with a coat of water based polyurethane. Next I mixed colors into the polyurethane until I had a good color match with the cabinets. I brought a cabinet door to my shop to use for a color match. It was a lot of work, but the end results were very satisfying.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKZWt9Tpnq2WcWcDhAWH00aPXyioEWzX06kziv7AIGlMLaKpu5WEpPCUkDJz4_Z4mKHDEh9gCiHoq9g_WvcE9M0dt1aPF0ziV4Dh6WFERBaOIC3mlG-WaAcdP22tCqEV3joSeueKPrYD60/s1600/Maple+coffered+ceiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKZWt9Tpnq2WcWcDhAWH00aPXyioEWzX06kziv7AIGlMLaKpu5WEpPCUkDJz4_Z4mKHDEh9gCiHoq9g_WvcE9M0dt1aPF0ziV4Dh6WFERBaOIC3mlG-WaAcdP22tCqEV3joSeueKPrYD60/s640/Maple+coffered+ceiling.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLrTrmOY064H1NM6ivjNhMCpGbjWLmQKbOq7TSiq3JeKoOEaqQsGpaXAGEXx-qVX8fL1QG_EwTiivLa1HmL5vsiktCoZK4-dPfj-HIk-L9QEipr6K77d4c32RT-Jo_9kF2k2nx0ZvYCe3/s1600/hemlock+Ceiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLrTrmOY064H1NM6ivjNhMCpGbjWLmQKbOq7TSiq3JeKoOEaqQsGpaXAGEXx-qVX8fL1QG_EwTiivLa1HmL5vsiktCoZK4-dPfj-HIk-L9QEipr6K77d4c32RT-Jo_9kF2k2nx0ZvYCe3/s320/hemlock+Ceiling.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> The downstairs family room is very large and has a low ceiling, so the beams were made of hemlock lumber that was pre-finished in the garage and assembled in place. The beams are only 3" and 4" deep, so that they will not intrude into the room. They add a lot of visual interest to an otherwise boring expanse of textured drywall, and they frame the recessed lights nicely. <br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-36219307904236982892010-06-25T11:28:00.000-07:002010-06-25T15:01:21.358-07:00Roofing Repair and Carpenter Ants<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmMBqb9Z7J7v58cJicVndn89V67PLuQfh0lHEsjlSPihwZDiV1OlI4aUy6nD4Cf3P5ZAxv7dizZJ3m2MuLN6o5U4pP31xic4eu3aDspbNtkG9KWewzZB0YXuIPst-JcUIT_7_1-4bw5Cr/s1600/Warrens+Old+Roof.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmMBqb9Z7J7v58cJicVndn89V67PLuQfh0lHEsjlSPihwZDiV1OlI4aUy6nD4Cf3P5ZAxv7dizZJ3m2MuLN6o5U4pP31xic4eu3aDspbNtkG9KWewzZB0YXuIPst-JcUIT_7_1-4bw5Cr/s320/Warrens+Old+Roof.JPG" width="320" /></a> I went out on a service call to repair a leaky roof. The owner noticed some water in his closet and water stains on the wall. Upon inspecting the roof, I found a roof valley running into a wall. The shingles were older three tab roofing that was getting near the end of their life. The step flashing was rusty and pretty well deteriorated on one side of the valley. The other side of the valley had been recently repaired and had new shingles and step flashing.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div> The owner told me he had purchased the house about a year ago and a roofer had done some repairs and given him a roof certification. <strong><em><span style="color: #990000;">I assumed the leak was coming from the older portion of the roof </span></em></strong>and went to work stripping off the damaged roofing, removed the siding and step shingles and worked my way down toward the gutters. The roof had been installed over an older roof that was really in bad shape. It made it very difficult to see clearly where the roof was leaking. I removed a 3 ft. wide path of roofing and found some rot at the gutter and replaced a couple of boards. <br />
<br />
Next I glued down some 30 lb. felt with asphalt emulsion and started weaving in the new shingles and new step flashing working my way up the wall toward the valley. When I got to the valley, as added insurance against leaks,<strong><em> I put asphalt emulsion under every shingle. I felt pretty confident that the roof would be impervious to leaks; at least in this area. </em></strong> It was time to clean up, load up my ladders and tools and call it a day. It was perfect timing, because it was starting to sprinkle. It rained hard for two days and then my phone rang.<br />
<br />
<strong> <span style="font-size: large;">Bummer, the closet still had water coming in</span></strong><span style="font-size: large;">.</span> I dropped what I was working on and jumped in my truck to go over and check it out. <strong><em> I really hate it when things like this happen.</em></strong> Sure enough the plywood under the carpet was wet. <br />
<br />
I went up in the attic to see if I could see exactly where the leak was and it appeared to be coming in from the sidewall, just up from where I had done all of my repairs. I picked up some insulation to see how wet things might be and <em><strong><span style="color: #990000;">the whole area underneath, looked like a pile of sawdust or dirt</span></strong></em>. <strong><em> I poked at it and the pile began wiggling and moving. Ants swarmed out and began repairing the damage to their nest.</em></strong> I broke the bad news to the owner, and let him know I would return the next morning.<br />
<br />
The next day I went up on the roof and made more repairs, this time replacing the roofing and flashing that I had assumed to be good. I found a missing piece of step flashing 6" above where I had stopped two days before. <em><strong>The lesson for me is to never assume that a previous repair was done correctly.</strong></em> <span style="color: #990000;">Attending Hard Knocks University is never fun</span> and a few hours of warranty work, doesn't help pay the bills. <br />
<br />
I next removed the siding below the roof line to figure out where all of these ants were coming from. The siding was old and brittle, so it was tedious and careful work. <br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZGGR6esNg_aPAXt_Aie-4j5Xfh3SBFAqilm04OZ8s03UkCxgB_pi6n-Di4TEqiKB3M-0AyAmAQ1f0GzZHT1VpI4akCCMNRgVoUJWCRtRv2dgU0IMqp0C4PR_7E6f3YZWi4pDodqdgcb_/s1600/Warren's+Carpenter+Ant+Discovery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="383" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZGGR6esNg_aPAXt_Aie-4j5Xfh3SBFAqilm04OZ8s03UkCxgB_pi6n-Di4TEqiKB3M-0AyAmAQ1f0GzZHT1VpI4akCCMNRgVoUJWCRtRv2dgU0IMqp0C4PR_7E6f3YZWi4pDodqdgcb_/s400/Warren's+Carpenter+Ant+Discovery.JPG" width="400" /></a> <strong><em> Underneath was a super highway of ant traffic.</em></strong> They had eaten all of the sheathing, including the asphalt emulsion face. The picture at left is insect damage.<strong><em> I did not remove any of the sheathing, they ate it all and built their nest from the digested material.</em></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> I removed more siding and the insulation and cut the sheathing back to the studs. The whole colony began to rain down on me and I knew the meaning of the children's poem. <strong><em><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"> "I have ants in my pants, and I do the boogie dance!"</span></em></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #990000;"><strong><em> </em></strong></span><span style="color: black;">Fortunately, the ants all shook off, with only a few bites. <em> (Carpenter ant bites are not very painful )</em> I did have that feeling that bugs were crawling on my skin for a while.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikp2XlHhsWozvGE7jdNNHU6IJcrAbUMSLahcBSxj3C1ftrb42gMG2dR4MPxNAMWYvNibgcpfcmiQdCzo7Fp0bWHz4d1nsIhUuYTire3S-vmPNjftL_H6pCn-s3sDLW_1cLmk8Kxt26ZIe_/s1600/Warren's+Ant+Infestation.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikp2XlHhsWozvGE7jdNNHU6IJcrAbUMSLahcBSxj3C1ftrb42gMG2dR4MPxNAMWYvNibgcpfcmiQdCzo7Fp0bWHz4d1nsIhUuYTire3S-vmPNjftL_H6pCn-s3sDLW_1cLmk8Kxt26ZIe_/s320/Warren's+Ant+Infestation.JPG" width="301" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> I removed the siding below this area down to the concrete porch and found where the ants were coming in from the ground. The slab, abutted the poured concrete foundation and the ants were coming in between the small space of the expansion crack. <em><strong> After removing all of the ants and nest materials, I called it a day.</strong></em></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> I started the next day by pouring a gallon of Black Guard Ant and Insect Killer into the crack, it all drained rapidly into the space. Next I replaced the affected lumber and added blocking. I treated all exposed spaces and wood with Copper based 'Termin 8 to block any future infestation, and then sprayed everything down with insecticide. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> Now it was time to put everything back together. New Insulation and sheathing, then carefully putting the brittle siding back. Some of the siding had to be glued back together. It was a combed vertical face tongue and groove fir siding that would have been next to impossible to find, but it all went back together nicely. I left thinking about that scripture, "Behold how great a matter a little fire kindleth." Just change the verse to, "Behold how great a matter a little drop causeth." Fortunately it was found before the damage was severe.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-4569027758758030212010-06-15T21:31:00.000-07:002016-01-03T10:04:51.830-08:00Plumbing for a Kitchen Island Sink<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDczElMTINmOFf0XsJsBqcmwUa7pCjizMYK55LEZzHW6hDzWQixMvJgZkvJonjGGpe0bAvMBPdFopm5OUxu3X97-E2g6JIKFVi175MRWkScW4nU03fZPvhNGfZtF-8skgieHeO_P1VOMto/s1600/top+of+plumbing+vent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDczElMTINmOFf0XsJsBqcmwUa7pCjizMYK55LEZzHW6hDzWQixMvJgZkvJonjGGpe0bAvMBPdFopm5OUxu3X97-E2g6JIKFVi175MRWkScW4nU03fZPvhNGfZtF-8skgieHeO_P1VOMto/s320/top+of+plumbing+vent.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigdekZE-9n65DSdKDS7j6Q_KiMgMBHdOSvsV25ApwUOOBh49pyzy47MJrjkPHnaH_CpMtgVnFTeis1EjLniOAKaCyrWugRM3WAwUkywKEwwwfA5q7XMpVHRLexMNT-uT76UordjiQ_nif6/s1600/Kitchen+island+plumbing+vent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigdekZE-9n65DSdKDS7j6Q_KiMgMBHdOSvsV25ApwUOOBh49pyzy47MJrjkPHnaH_CpMtgVnFTeis1EjLniOAKaCyrWugRM3WAwUkywKEwwwfA5q7XMpVHRLexMNT-uT76UordjiQ_nif6/s320/Kitchen+island+plumbing+vent.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
An Island sink is indispensable when remodeling your kitchen. It gives two people a place to work, without bumping into each other. It also gives the kids a sink to wash up, or rinse something off, while you are preparing food at another sink.<br />
<br />
One of the big issues when adding an island sink, is how to vent the waste line. If you have a wall behind the cabinet, the plumbing is no problem, but in an island, most of the time the cabinet is free standing with an applied finished back. Which is the case here. Other issues can be the joist placement in the floor. This cabinet sat over an electrical chase in the adjoining joist space, so the plumbing had to come up right in the middle of the cabinet. (Less than Ideal!)<br />
<br />
The waste and vent line were stubbed up through the toe kick and floor of the cabinet just far enough to accommodate 45 degree fittings that offset the lines over to the edge of the cabinet. The vent loop - [second picture] - should be as tall possible, beside the sink and up to the counter top. The vent loops and goes back down under the floor. The vent line has a T fitting installed that ties into a waste line to drain any condensation or water that gets trapped in the vent line; from the T fitting the vent line runs to the nearest wall and up from there into the attic and through the roof. <br />
<br />
Always install a T fitting after the vent line goes back into the floor, other wise the vent will slowly fill with water and become ineffective over time. There is nothing worse than a slow draining, gurgling, burping sink that vents through the sink drain.<br />
<br />
There are after-market mechanical vents available, and these are code approved for mobile homes and repair work, but for this application in a remodel, they really should not be considered. A mechanical vent works with a very weak spring, which holds a rubber diaphragm closed. When draining water runs down from the sink, it creates a suction that pulls on the diaphragm and depresses the spring. These vents work great as long as they are not blocked or obstructed, but spiders build webs. Condensation is corrosive and over time causes mineral buildup, and people throw all kinds of stuff under a sink, so a vent is important and worth doing right.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOy2t5UB0kGwwtFqDok1w7j9XQRt3DUzO7uS_o0g5WONJ53t-aQJM325uTn47M2hgGuxd5oce5gjjgHZAlnRTNA2lAC4-WA3a3gucK03tp9chOr_woPf8ObT35wg_3-zVAsVEAEkhHfg5O/s1600/studor-mini-vent-for-inchnhalf-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOy2t5UB0kGwwtFqDok1w7j9XQRt3DUzO7uS_o0g5WONJ53t-aQJM325uTn47M2hgGuxd5oce5gjjgHZAlnRTNA2lAC4-WA3a3gucK03tp9chOr_woPf8ObT35wg_3-zVAsVEAEkhHfg5O/s320/studor-mini-vent-for-inchnhalf-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
A little trick to remember when assembling ABS fittings and pipe; make your cuts with a chop saw - wherever they will be visible and wipe off the excess glue with a rag, while assembling the loop. It will be much more attractive and uniform when completed.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-61855894634226612962010-06-10T12:18:00.000-07:002010-06-15T15:24:35.711-07:00Kitchen Design Considerations<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
Before any Kitchen remodel, there is an extensive process of design. Many things will come into play - The shape of the room, your cooking and life style, the type of cabinets - counter tops and appliances you dream of having and then the big item of "Budget". Do you have enough money to build the kitchen of your dreams? That is where something called value engineering comes in. You take what you want, factor in the cost than see how much money you have, and if it isn't enough - weigh your options and try to get as close as you can to the dream.</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQcNQGS5HBi01tyywMvGnImxddeguP2dKLGYy23bFfLPW-axO8SUJVhkZAIsyvhNcTE0xzXM2vc0ivnuIfcgiMQyJv6sOgXpVzUHBCpsV9DRgB3GHBUtzjYKdloEch-Md0WrFJfTf_DRr/s1600/Two+Sinks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQcNQGS5HBi01tyywMvGnImxddeguP2dKLGYy23bFfLPW-axO8SUJVhkZAIsyvhNcTE0xzXM2vc0ivnuIfcgiMQyJv6sOgXpVzUHBCpsV9DRgB3GHBUtzjYKdloEch-Md0WrFJfTf_DRr/s320/Two+Sinks.JPG" /></a>Most kitchens have one sink, but many times there are two people cooking - which makes for a crowded kitchen. If you are incorporating a peninsula or island, this is usually also a great place to add a sink. Try and offset the sinks so the chefs are not bumping into each other. It just takes a little bit of tricky plumbing to vent the drain, involving a loop vent - in islands and penninsulas. I'll write a how to post on this in an upcoming article.</div><br />
Storage in your cabinets is a big consideration. I really think cabinets with doors and roll out shelving are a waste of money. Why not just put in drawers to start with? Drawers are easy to organize and are completely accessible. Opening doors and then pulling out a roll out shelf - not only wastes space, but it is inconvenient. The only place I would use cabinets that are not drawer banks would be in a sink base - where you have plumbing, in blind and inside corners and on pantry cabinets. Drawer banks work great for almost all lower cabinets.<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-mBXQ4pJCHJZ83zv_XjGTkTRw761CoSThcFIsZtkt-TCqFmYxSBNtMXCWNKl93eBdn1VKlxUwxbqukxHmx5geIKZM0sUaeayyusREQTRSrWBwi0wRQbodVhDvvzIho0xiv5Yamp6Ply0c/s1600/Kitchen+Drawers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-mBXQ4pJCHJZ83zv_XjGTkTRw761CoSThcFIsZtkt-TCqFmYxSBNtMXCWNKl93eBdn1VKlxUwxbqukxHmx5geIKZM0sUaeayyusREQTRSrWBwi0wRQbodVhDvvzIho0xiv5Yamp6Ply0c/s400/Kitchen+Drawers.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Under counter lighting is something you must plan for in advance of construction. Prewiring for fixture location and switches are done in the planning stages. Lighting and controls are also essential design elements, in the planning stages. Task lighting, must be planned and it is very handy to split the switches up, so that all of the lights do not have to be on at the same time. The undercounter lights are really nice for those late night snacks and are great for parties. They are not something you want to add as an afterthought.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRa1B4omcJ9ASEOw7xAYFVbr1y-SYqZHmZOT-SGg4TJY8WvMqR_W3iF2l0bDbNa0T5vFphlTRKd5eVk2UsPnX_agQBFVGma66ubusw1taoiCilfElTpg0juRcMreGjdvuTmQRXJaFimxjG/s1600/Under+Counter+Lights.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRa1B4omcJ9ASEOw7xAYFVbr1y-SYqZHmZOT-SGg4TJY8WvMqR_W3iF2l0bDbNa0T5vFphlTRKd5eVk2UsPnX_agQBFVGma66ubusw1taoiCilfElTpg0juRcMreGjdvuTmQRXJaFimxjG/s400/Under+Counter+Lights.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Appliances can wipe out your budget and many times are not very well planned for in advance. This built in refrigerater/freezer is a massive unit. It takes up five feet in width. The unit looked kind of squatty on the show-room floor, because of it's width, so we planned a toe space in advance to elevate the unit four inches. This makes it much more scaleable to its space. The units' trim package had a very tall louvred aluminum panel that goes over the top. This panel was so large that there would not be any storage space above. We cut the panel down on a tablesaw and trimmed the outside metal frame. There are now two cabinets over the refrigerator/freezer and we still provided adequate ventilation for the units. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIfllCBXd61kxeS0Cv1YduN8A8Xx-WAsIugDiqtopFXk47_hydwn8vajiNIFuLPhb_9b7Mq3NBcuN1NDzLRwPuehMQvFKynBIIQuX5xnj6QcbHCJbSQwH2_WaWqE7jsV-DMNh87i6wtjE/s1600/huge+built+in+reefer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIfllCBXd61kxeS0Cv1YduN8A8Xx-WAsIugDiqtopFXk47_hydwn8vajiNIFuLPhb_9b7Mq3NBcuN1NDzLRwPuehMQvFKynBIIQuX5xnj6QcbHCJbSQwH2_WaWqE7jsV-DMNh87i6wtjE/s320/huge+built+in+reefer.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Details: The peninsula has a nice overhang that provides more countertop space and doubles as a bar counter. This is a high traffic area, so the granite tops were fabricated with an eased radius on the corners. It wouldn't be a whole lot of fun to bang your hip on a sharp corner as you walked by. Other details included having a window sill fabricated out of the same granite to match the countertops. The backsplashes were made from the same slate as the floor and laid diagonally like the flooring to help tie the design together. It provides more interest than granite slab backsplashes. The end result saved money and was more attractive.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHfDfNMEKyE2Q1ZVF0aK1AtctcrQTYuCTnh_KTlUSxATIoO8QKSyXAibACMsBjF6kKh5LQCyffxnua4Ev0RdBCqxZhV6uNsYlavBciaCzX_djTWjGzat-SVc-_tXhkNCBqi8s10I-rB7OJ/s1600/Peninsula+curved+Corners.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHfDfNMEKyE2Q1ZVF0aK1AtctcrQTYuCTnh_KTlUSxATIoO8QKSyXAibACMsBjF6kKh5LQCyffxnua4Ev0RdBCqxZhV6uNsYlavBciaCzX_djTWjGzat-SVc-_tXhkNCBqi8s10I-rB7OJ/s320/Peninsula+curved+Corners.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-24196293520250388992010-06-10T11:20:00.000-07:002010-06-10T15:11:36.482-07:00A Goofed Up Mess!!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Have you ever wondered why remodels so often cost more than the original bid or estimate? Well this bathroom remodel had a lot of unanticipated problems, that reared their ugly heads after the old bathroom was demolished. This looks like a pretty normal electrical box, except for the fact that it was buried in the wall, behind the sheetrock. This was the work of a previous re-muddeler. Why is this a problem you ask? Well if there was ever a problem with a switch, outlet or light not receiving power, it would be impossible to find or track down - because it was buried in the wall and inaccessible. It also is a violation of building code and a fire hazard.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"> See the next picture? I call this an air-splice, no box - no protection, they just wire nut the wires together and bury them inside the wall. This splice was only two feet from the buried box.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAX0x0Q30CtAvLnBkuyVlZzGlq6mQQ4_ELkApk0uMnEfWASyu8AC2hWYeO25oBLD074nGrzm0ZQPIo4picE3viYmiCOcQ5u0zMo0ckCbeCaIcVTkQxyh7VTLFwn1XB-woyeWNHb12kZPpA/s1600/Goof+up+%233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAX0x0Q30CtAvLnBkuyVlZzGlq6mQQ4_ELkApk0uMnEfWASyu8AC2hWYeO25oBLD074nGrzm0ZQPIo4picE3viYmiCOcQ5u0zMo0ckCbeCaIcVTkQxyh7VTLFwn1XB-woyeWNHb12kZPpA/s400/Goof+up+%233.JPG" width="380" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc-xWVdTqwvr1EHkvSc0hxgo8gTju5wTORFWfuTIB0UFsIBn0ab687_nsO-jUfNseAZ1hwCGN-dFU1B2FHOpQKrlMRaIhmTJIkw-JEFJcgU1Nz0Ro-DlwK2U7QC2ZloDO2WW8p0aHoZpLn/s1600/Goof+up+%231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="355" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc-xWVdTqwvr1EHkvSc0hxgo8gTju5wTORFWfuTIB0UFsIBn0ab687_nsO-jUfNseAZ1hwCGN-dFU1B2FHOpQKrlMRaIhmTJIkw-JEFJcgU1Nz0Ro-DlwK2U7QC2ZloDO2WW8p0aHoZpLn/s400/Goof+up+%231.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Same bathroom - in the ceiling is an epoxy patch, where the pipe was leaking - the ceiling was black under this pipe, from the constant drip. The drywall is removed and the wood has been treated to prevent further mold. The pipe will be replaced with new copper.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Ce_yxxoVrNmyMynMm_LVV7VjuXtfjlzf9vJpPF0OE0Rqq8UeKJye6A6buEmbDCr6T6vpkunv08jBalsGaMQnm2VfrAlXMGEJ3GycY6WOcmyVEe0x-tKU0_6KeQuTAN5ht-VGvXKoDfAY/s1600/Goof+up+%234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Ce_yxxoVrNmyMynMm_LVV7VjuXtfjlzf9vJpPF0OE0Rqq8UeKJye6A6buEmbDCr6T6vpkunv08jBalsGaMQnm2VfrAlXMGEJ3GycY6WOcmyVEe0x-tKU0_6KeQuTAN5ht-VGvXKoDfAY/s400/Goof+up+%234.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Here we go again - another negligent goof up. The wire was cut and left hanging in the wall behind the bath tub. You won't believe it - but the wire is hot.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXR1bsNghxIleWQtwHJpFrVSBG09-7ZRm_cA9SQjYHxu-DmNYHzkjSoPBUAgd1xTls6RLBbqwg8IQkd-ppVA7mrI-f3Vw35jUQb1nZi-L98gXpn9wqGIqHuMypz3ixRaLEIdQksQKQfRm/s1600/Goof+up+%232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXR1bsNghxIleWQtwHJpFrVSBG09-7ZRm_cA9SQjYHxu-DmNYHzkjSoPBUAgd1xTls6RLBbqwg8IQkd-ppVA7mrI-f3Vw35jUQb1nZi-L98gXpn9wqGIqHuMypz3ixRaLEIdQksQKQfRm/s400/Goof+up+%232.JPG" width="325" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">This is not the end of the mess - there was another spot where copper pipe and wire were touching and the insulation was worn off of the romex wire down to almost copper to copper contact. This bathroom presented a major hazard and frustration. Many times a wall is opened and there are conditions that could not have been anticipated. These conditions must be repaired and it all takes time and money. Whenever we run into issues like this, if it is not something minor that can just be handled and incorporated into the job. I always bring in the owner or client and show them what we have found and what it will take to fix it. Everybody should know exactly how their money is being spent, especially in this economy.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-27144724767911603642010-02-03T22:48:00.000-08:002010-06-10T13:17:31.370-07:00Removing Popcorn/Acoustical Ceiling Texture<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Those old popcorn ceilings really are horrible - they collect spider webs and dust and they are just plain ugly and old fashioned. If your house has them, it isn't too tough to remove, as long as they do not contain Asbestos. This example was from a house built in 1978, that did not contain Asbestos, so it could safely be removed.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZGlXDRiOgZC06UrlA17shFnISR-yrQV4XxPpZcZa-FLaQWkZFYnxOfW8xeDxFjPC058ao_0ZXCTRiRlp4-xJZ0jvNbY-zQXyg13haC1l4F9XTeZVnu3pgJmJON7HuSBC5-R3EUqjo9rl/s1600/popcorn+ceiling.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZGlXDRiOgZC06UrlA17shFnISR-yrQV4XxPpZcZa-FLaQWkZFYnxOfW8xeDxFjPC058ao_0ZXCTRiRlp4-xJZ0jvNbY-zQXyg13haC1l4F9XTeZVnu3pgJmJON7HuSBC5-R3EUqjo9rl/s400/popcorn+ceiling.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>You start out with a spray bottle filled with warm water and a few drops of dish washing liquid or liquid hand soap. The soap helps the water penetrate the texture. Spray the water generously on the area to be removed and let it soak in for about five minutes. Spray one more time, just before scraping, then grab your putty knife and scrape away. I use a four and six inch knife. The smaller knife is for stubborn areas. This ceiling was a real bummer to scrape, because it had been painted, which made it take longer to soften up and it did a better job of repelling the water, but persistence and sweat paid off and it all came down. Before you start scraping, make sure you have a layer of plastic on the floor to catch all of the texture. When the job is complete, you simply roll up the plastic with the texture and your floor will be relatively clean. If the texture has never been painted, you can sometimes use a floor scraper. The long handle of a floor scraper can really save your neck and back some of the torture of scraping up close to the ceiling.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zGa9X21io4ckNXr6xWqTlyDS5XjDeKZK3JM8ORdIrUgy9s0I49p1bxXD4hYCBQo_eg_YHsv_009_NR2OEQK9_shYzxGTBzRCvYWkISUNX9TI2NWqX9HSsXyvI5iADl0PWt5LM4-CVRa4/s1600/Popcorn+removed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zGa9X21io4ckNXr6xWqTlyDS5XjDeKZK3JM8ORdIrUgy9s0I49p1bxXD4hYCBQo_eg_YHsv_009_NR2OEQK9_shYzxGTBzRCvYWkISUNX9TI2NWqX9HSsXyvI5iADl0PWt5LM4-CVRa4/s400/Popcorn+removed.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This picture shows the ceiling after it is scraped. One of the reason popcorn texture was sprayed on ceilings, was to save time in drywall preparation. The finish quality of taped joints and nail and screw impressions did not have to be very high if you were going to cover it with a quarter inch of gloppy goo. The heavy work is not completed at this point. The joints and defects must now be re-coated just like a fresh drywall job has to be, after it is taped and coated once. The final coat was never done with popcorn texture. In the picture you can see the nails and joints. This final ceiling will be an imperfect smooth finish, which is not a normal texture. It will look like an old fashioned plaster job, when it is completed. The next step is to break out the hawk and trowel. The joints will receive a coat of mud, then the whole ceiling will troweled to completely cover it. It will be ready to paint after a light sanding. Imperfect smooth leaves some of the tool marks and light defects to have the appearance of a hand finished plaster coat. I use a swimming pool trowel with round corners for the final coat.<br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxs7wYp98dKNjiPn_6AyVSin-Rb_hg3ONF8HGjJLMSazni0W7fMc6bXsgWtapvDBMARcYDMG_udi06wPhl3JdfoKn-Jv3YXywzB9GWxkQIxzL09MM9TJlqh6DlrZ3WnPhQviE3L6c0FRF/s1600/coating+the+ceiling.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxs7wYp98dKNjiPn_6AyVSin-Rb_hg3ONF8HGjJLMSazni0W7fMc6bXsgWtapvDBMARcYDMG_udi06wPhl3JdfoKn-Jv3YXywzB9GWxkQIxzL09MM9TJlqh6DlrZ3WnPhQviE3L6c0FRF/s400/coating+the+ceiling.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> The last picture here shows the finish coat in progress. You can see the tool marks and overlaps in the mud. It will be sanded to reduce, but not eliminate those marks. They are part of the character of the final product. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Imperfect smooth finished walls and ceilings have the solid old world craftsman feel of an old lath and plaster home. It is definitely more work than a spray on texture job, but well worth the extra effort.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-54639109083603052692009-09-18T10:19:00.000-07:002010-06-09T16:49:12.785-07:00Plumbing for a Pedestal Sink<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4rnU2d0hb7sZtHIDvr9OcEePO_ZBL_-l5zMEpkVQdqvDs5eRSw-abiOr8pyrZC3jrrVTh40okngUJLe8ooGtKNbwvm23Ue69_Ee6o0rPEZB-sCVfM2ueer3NjVBhEcl_9ZDQzgEkE3VCP/s1600-h/Cutting+the+Stub+out.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382862288754679410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4rnU2d0hb7sZtHIDvr9OcEePO_ZBL_-l5zMEpkVQdqvDs5eRSw-abiOr8pyrZC3jrrVTh40okngUJLe8ooGtKNbwvm23Ue69_Ee6o0rPEZB-sCVfM2ueer3NjVBhEcl_9ZDQzgEkE3VCP/s400/Cutting+the+Stub+out.JPG" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 368px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDnA70L1KXTE23MAohid5WGxZ3DA7bunKYmKQSc6V_NUBTxZho5gZlqu69LNPR-K5sOVlJgynILejOERXSvuZ1ytr-9-IhIWZNeYkDR5L-7YP452VkVvlOSrj4xByrjZl8JtXnl-WGvAn/s1600-h/finished+lav.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382862266377460498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDnA70L1KXTE23MAohid5WGxZ3DA7bunKYmKQSc6V_NUBTxZho5gZlqu69LNPR-K5sOVlJgynILejOERXSvuZ1ytr-9-IhIWZNeYkDR5L-7YP452VkVvlOSrj4xByrjZl8JtXnl-WGvAn/s400/finished+lav.JPG" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
When you install a pedestal Lavatory, the plumbing is exposed, so you should make it look clean and presentable. The copper stub out should be cut off at one inch. This will accommodate a standard escutcheon trim ring and the valve will seat perfectly on the pipe and tight against the escutcheon trim ring. No copper pipe will show between the valve and the escutcheon trim ring.<br />
<br />
My friend Bob, who is a master plumber, taught me to use tri-flow spray lubricant, when installing valves. You spray it on the pipe, ferrule and inside the valve before tightening. Tri-flow keeps the valve from leaking and you don't have to over-tighten the nut, which causes the ferrule to cut deeply into the copper pipe. WD-40 works also, but not nearly as well as Tri-flow, which contains silicone and helps to create a good seal. I also use quarter turn ball valves, they do not restrict the flow of water, like a gate style shut off and they are so much faster to turn on and off. They cost just a little bit more, but are well worth the difference in price.<br />
<br />
The waste line uses a short sanitary tee in the wall and the trap adapter is glued tight to the fitting. The wall is framed with two by fours, so the adapter sticks out a little too far to cover with one escutcheon trim ring, so I had to use two (see in the photo above) . The back one is still missing screws in the picture, I just have to locate a couple of chrome plated bugle head screws to fill in the holes and it will be complete.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-34782601778526105252009-09-06T13:49:00.001-07:002009-09-06T14:18:27.614-07:00Installing a Kitchen Slate Floor<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKc43PzEQwuvVQ6g5YvyJGdImv03hcHni9spDrebRYyEYRYiv0TGTAFwgM_ppTeUkfxuFvU-_h3ijO8tePkRNUaaTdoWaNYLYm1amCx6mLm6eQOIrenlOOIGibPtYxI-oAs_YmyAQEEMv3/s1600-h/slate+backsplash.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKc43PzEQwuvVQ6g5YvyJGdImv03hcHni9spDrebRYyEYRYiv0TGTAFwgM_ppTeUkfxuFvU-_h3ijO8tePkRNUaaTdoWaNYLYm1amCx6mLm6eQOIrenlOOIGibPtYxI-oAs_YmyAQEEMv3/s400/slate+backsplash.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378459621856941746" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEing2E25DIaJFT8FrHzcxjnJ0Tl2iRNhbLt5eJwtHIGLWHtkTT5iTdifUQD5xIIM2N83a2YHmlCigpyHYIAOL_RuyyoAC0IGE3RKfYdox-fcR-obvHmbaAFfiZzRXKDGDKdvWsvDRJouHow/s1600-h/slate+kitchen+floor.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEing2E25DIaJFT8FrHzcxjnJ0Tl2iRNhbLt5eJwtHIGLWHtkTT5iTdifUQD5xIIM2N83a2YHmlCigpyHYIAOL_RuyyoAC0IGE3RKfYdox-fcR-obvHmbaAFfiZzRXKDGDKdvWsvDRJouHow/s400/slate+kitchen+floor.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378459608948980418" /></a><br /><br />Slate makes a very rich and beautiful floor, but there are some things that need to be taken into consideration before you proceed. Slate is a stone and is split, so there is a lot of variation in its' thickness. Some slate is split on both faces, while other slate is called 'gauged'. That means the back side has been ground or surfaced to make it more uniform in thickness. Gauged slate still can vary from 1/4" to 5/8" thick in the same box. To get around this difference, you need to plan on using a lot of thin set mortar over your backing material.<br /><br />Whether you use Hardibacker, Wonderboard or a Mortar bed, you start with a flat surface and are laying an uneven material. It is a lot less work if you start with your thickest slates and work away from there. Most slate tiles will have high and low areas in each tile and you just have to split the difference to insure that one part of the tile does not stick up and stub a barefoot toe in the middle of the night. <br /><br />A floor is a lot more interesting if you lay it diagonally, especially if your kitchen is long like mine is. Tiles laid in a straight pattern make a long kitchen look like a hallway. Diagonally laid slate requires a lot more cutting and a little more material, but is definitely worth the extra work.<br /><br />Daniel, laid out all of the slate, by pattern and color and did an excellent job, to make sure that there were no runs of similar colored tile; that would make the floor boring. I put in a small section of floor, when he was away and he sure let me know how ugly my part of the floor turned out. "Boring!!" too much of the same color, fortunately for me the dining room table covers that part of the floor.<br /><br />I put dark green Granite counter tops in, but do not like the way Granite slabs look when used as a back splash. I thought the slate would be much more interesting, and I think it is. I cut the 12"x12" floor tiles into 6"x6" back splash tiles, and laid them diagonally.I love the way they came out and it was at a fraction of the price that granite slabs would have been.<br /><br />All of the slate in the pictures was purchased at Lowe's. They had a closeout on some multicolored slate and I offered them $1.00 each if I would take all they had including the broken ones, and they accepted. This floor is the result and what a bargain it was.<br /><br />After the slate is laid, it must be cleaned up and pre-sealed before grouting. It really helps to be careful to keep the thinset mortar off of the surface while working. This is where a damp rag and a bucket of water come in handy while laying the slate. I used a masonry sealer that is sold in the paint department at Home Depot. It is the same sealer I used after grouting. It goes on white and turns clear when it dries. This sealer is very inexpensive and durable. The finish is absolutely awesome in my opinion and costs a fraction of most of the sealers sold in the tile department or in tile stores. After grouting the slate, I put on two more coats of sealer, It is so beautiful it takes my breath away - just like my wife.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-35233211883423141652009-09-06T13:42:00.001-07:002009-09-06T13:47:32.757-07:00Isolate Your New Plumbing Project<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwc_W2z0vZxCJPnKbBVUGsHE9nhaGoKcWB54-un6LJnwnv2sMbOr7NQiVhhHdJ59jZ2NlnIJe0bPXUProOx_q9LkhKCUCZgJlaEmYSgYuyPdPrfxv26pxHL1zKgxBInS0Otx4iJyrk5ToT/s1600-h/plumbing+isolation.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwc_W2z0vZxCJPnKbBVUGsHE9nhaGoKcWB54-un6LJnwnv2sMbOr7NQiVhhHdJ59jZ2NlnIJe0bPXUProOx_q9LkhKCUCZgJlaEmYSgYuyPdPrfxv26pxHL1zKgxBInS0Otx4iJyrk5ToT/s400/plumbing+isolation.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378457678918940690" /></a><br /><br />Are you remodeling your kitchen or bathroom or adding on to your house. It is always a good idea to isolate new plumbing, by adding valves. It is much easier to shut off a zone, than shutoff the whole house. Ball Valves are very effective and inexpensive for this task. It is a lot easier to shut down a part of the house, so that life can go on, while you work.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-68697270811320612212009-09-06T13:32:00.001-07:002009-09-06T13:41:39.165-07:00Plumbing Noise Tips<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJkVA8tVMfaCvqsG29h0LCN4S9frzmyRaF2eR5kidpBZYl-eR_Eek4AN-6Bj2ZSd-gP5paomS5Yts2yWs1S7wyP4bISfnbJaR7G93Ul5OAFLB69NWwn1-AgYzX5af9R56clzNnuZyhk6Yj/s1600-h/quiet+shower+head.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJkVA8tVMfaCvqsG29h0LCN4S9frzmyRaF2eR5kidpBZYl-eR_Eek4AN-6Bj2ZSd-gP5paomS5Yts2yWs1S7wyP4bISfnbJaR7G93Ul5OAFLB69NWwn1-AgYzX5af9R56clzNnuZyhk6Yj/s400/quiet+shower+head.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378455321800537074" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCj5jPCLqIlrIgbibu1wvdJg_JkfM-L3zcQKl-ADyEbXVCKHhwm8eFDmi6G8CMOrqzRUyfbENPgzPXOXdN6pmmM7HrQ53yHnCjyzV_hwEnmdcISJfOj3qVnGAKZTnDOMKZSzCNvGW9vOr7/s1600-h/quiet+vent.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCj5jPCLqIlrIgbibu1wvdJg_JkfM-L3zcQKl-ADyEbXVCKHhwm8eFDmi6G8CMOrqzRUyfbENPgzPXOXdN6pmmM7HrQ53yHnCjyzV_hwEnmdcISJfOj3qVnGAKZTnDOMKZSzCNvGW9vOr7/s400/quiet+vent.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378455312143576626" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbj7wVJsQVYGJMGc_0naUVOdk9iKEEXcopehY1tOvAJBmh1a1arFZF5kL6Pvbnuqlqe6Xc8oOE1anB_9i8k76q9qBni5XaJbqnwM-n0-CCZD1nTHe-lMhFA5CbZEA1RwTDIdTXzJvF8m0/s1600-h/quiet+pipe.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbj7wVJsQVYGJMGc_0naUVOdk9iKEEXcopehY1tOvAJBmh1a1arFZF5kL6Pvbnuqlqe6Xc8oOE1anB_9i8k76q9qBni5XaJbqnwM-n0-CCZD1nTHe-lMhFA5CbZEA1RwTDIdTXzJvF8m0/s400/quiet+pipe.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378455305217681778" /></a><br /><br />There is nothing worse than finishing a plumbing project and listening to the pipes, creak and groan or hammer in the walls when you shut off the valve. It just takes a little bit of care to insure this doesn't happen to your project. I always use expanding foam liberally at all penetrations through plates, walls and through studs. It is also simple to strap pipes well, before the drywall goes on. Plumbing noise is a lot harder to fix retroactively.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-23536097802902127032009-09-03T17:32:00.000-07:002009-09-03T18:06:49.525-07:00Flat Roof Solution<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVBYzH5nIbyUVoHCH919xmMWJA_IHfJolnqVjmv34W5zUjmCHeTDgLTXAE-PPeU62rdNPfmjAtp3O9BLFbSaVPJYzIk5yDY2nEbJz6hAcB4c24VQxAdPrEEXAf4WZwl9uIuBDsqYHGbW9T/s1600-h/flat+car+port+roof.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVBYzH5nIbyUVoHCH919xmMWJA_IHfJolnqVjmv34W5zUjmCHeTDgLTXAE-PPeU62rdNPfmjAtp3O9BLFbSaVPJYzIk5yDY2nEbJz6hAcB4c24VQxAdPrEEXAf4WZwl9uIuBDsqYHGbW9T/s400/flat+car+port+roof.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377410651269011538" /></a><br /><br />I finished the underside of my car port with clear 1/2"x4" cedar. I want to keep it looking nice so I chose EPDM rubber as the waterproofing material above. After nailing down T&G Sturdi-floor plywood, I rolled out the sheet of rubber. It is 60 mil. thick and was quite heavy. After positioning the rubber, I rolled 1/2 of it back and troweled down glue on the plywood. After the glue was all down, I rolled the rubber back and then did the same thing on the other half. I jumped around on it to fine tune the position and then used a roller on the rubber to remove air bubbles.<br /><br />The rubber is tough enough to take a good deal of traffic, but we try not to sit on chairs or drop heavy objects on it. If one of us does punch a hole in it, a regular inner tube patch kit is all you need to make a repair. Eventually I will build a floating deck and complete the railing to match the house entry. Thats' a job to tackle in the spring. It's getting close to the end of our summer weather, and I am out of money (hopefully temporarily) to take on a project of this size.<br /><br /> The first EPDM roof I put down was about 20 years ago in Sacramento, CA. on my parents flat porch. I inspected it recently and the extreme heat had shrunk the black rubber so that it was tight as a drum. White rubber was not available 20 years ago, and this was a relatively new roofing material. The rubber is still in great condition, but I would use white rubber in a hot locale, to prevent shrinking and also to reflect heat away from the structure. I am going to have to go back to California and pull the rubber up and reset it, or it will probably pull away from the walls and leak. <br /><br />EPDM rubber has a reported 40-50 year rated lifespan, and after 20 years the rubber still felt as pliable and elastic as when I put it down, so I don't doubt that it could last that long. It would probably last indefinitely as a membrane under a Sedum or Sod roof. Maybe I will do that on my shop - Hmmm? that gets the wheels turning. I guess that is why I am a Perpetual Remodeler, I'm always thinking of something new to start on. The roof is getting old out there.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-77271800279510482642009-09-02T13:10:00.000-07:002009-09-02T13:20:23.106-07:00Hiding the Propane Tanks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TLMDtKEfY5TFfOrpaSI0tAySgRA2oeyA3iDC_XxSmBEkkPCysRfFFOTA-5MEqSekot6_BRmP-V8M9PH8TTnY87Wc_y8jkQ85hC74SV9eeeApTG5fqdxQxJkFzG1jFWtdn_J1JnGde03e/s1600-h/propane+tanks.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TLMDtKEfY5TFfOrpaSI0tAySgRA2oeyA3iDC_XxSmBEkkPCysRfFFOTA-5MEqSekot6_BRmP-V8M9PH8TTnY87Wc_y8jkQ85hC74SV9eeeApTG5fqdxQxJkFzG1jFWtdn_J1JnGde03e/s400/propane+tanks.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376965324565729058" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhURgiJaTPSKgSIozr3HkKPOvXT9fWuBALFk6za4lVWJlhJimcQSgY-kiYxb_2kdlV5o9c7wVL6EhhI-DP66FtkpQ6x7t8_JBeBQqrRQ4wROSOoLzw_gYQoMw2pykUZ5fAnn08GDHYQqj6M/s1600-h/propane+structure+(1).JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhURgiJaTPSKgSIozr3HkKPOvXT9fWuBALFk6za4lVWJlhJimcQSgY-kiYxb_2kdlV5o9c7wVL6EhhI-DP66FtkpQ6x7t8_JBeBQqrRQ4wROSOoLzw_gYQoMw2pykUZ5fAnn08GDHYQqj6M/s400/propane+structure+(1).JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376965317002965490" /></a><br /><br />We don't have natural gas piped into our property, so we have Propane tanks. <br />These tanks are not the most beautiful things to see, so I built an enclosure that is attractive and unobtrusive and will blend in with the new shingle siding and the landscaping. I used a couple of pre-made fence panels that I bought from Lowe's. The were cost effective and saved loads of time. One of the panels was used full size and the other one was cut in half and reworked a little so one half served as a gate and the other one is an end panel.<br />The nice thing about the pre-made panels, is they fit in great with the Mission style architecture.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-63528743200267569822009-09-02T12:49:00.000-07:002010-06-26T11:32:02.408-07:00Details of the Gable End Pop-Out<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj98o4fDjgdejkkyyZdimcTRpzd7dyDsxsymz8yf8NxT0h2sn1XGEf9vq6t_mF8UfRvRrdgcZ3zMu_3exJvd1GFy_fT_KbjdjDNLgLhfx7NYhCdNgFh0NuyeDM2EG03CNZsZ0EUtWqYKf_/s1600-h/jig+for+cutting+popout+wedge.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376964001908395618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj98o4fDjgdejkkyyZdimcTRpzd7dyDsxsymz8yf8NxT0h2sn1XGEf9vq6t_mF8UfRvRrdgcZ3zMu_3exJvd1GFy_fT_KbjdjDNLgLhfx7NYhCdNgFh0NuyeDM2EG03CNZsZ0EUtWqYKf_/s320/jig+for+cutting+popout+wedge.JPG" style="display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I cut the wedges for the popout using this make-shift<br />
jig on the table saw. I would place a 24" long piece of <br />
2" x 6" against the jig and push it through the tablesaw.<br />
It would make two wedges from each piece.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Adding a shadow and an angled pop-out on the Gable end was pretty simple, but a lot of extra work. I started with 2ft. long 2"x6"s and cut them out diagonally on the table saw. I built a simple jig for this to make them all uniform and expedite cutting out so many wedge shaped pieces. I ran a string across the bottom chord of the truss to help align the wedges, then just nailed them on and sheathed the whole thing with 1/2" OSB. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5EeOGMltGr4hIRW9ZZgr7gOmIMyC5CwzVXgvMSwZ8ck0pfxBEZgIUuCuZDE_V9FSz5b6g1ZO-hKZjN7d6w81uC3sqFUgWfmS7VwcJeyUYc8piSmyvUkwSLCz6Rtrav2f6b66BKPk-vQEJ/s1600-h/Gable+popout+detail.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376964008702627298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5EeOGMltGr4hIRW9ZZgr7gOmIMyC5CwzVXgvMSwZ8ck0pfxBEZgIUuCuZDE_V9FSz5b6g1ZO-hKZjN7d6w81uC3sqFUgWfmS7VwcJeyUYc8piSmyvUkwSLCz6Rtrav2f6b66BKPk-vQEJ/s320/Gable+popout+detail.JPG" style="display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a view of the truss from the attic.<br />
You can see the wedges attached to the <br />
vertical chords of the truss to form a <br />
6" popout shadow under the Gable.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This made a 6" shadow and really sets the Gable end off from the rest of the house. The hardest part about adding the angle was getting the shingles to push back into the transition area where the wall goes from vertical to angled. It does create an attractive curve in the shingles, but the shingles kept trying to wander as I would push them back and try to keep the butt ends aligned and on course, while stapling at the same time. People really should have three or four arms and hands, it would be very helpful for these types of tasks.</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Under the pop out I filled the 6" shadow area with rough cut cedar 1X and a 4"x4" that was rabbited out to accommodate the wall shingles.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4Dmi4ukkglyJFsy-dm5BxPPsNTRHepWspUxK9I0XJp7T0-fJDHs-kZweSaQ_G79LJI3U7BtM57JVHXhxh7oB3I6PqIswg_z1uUE5CDE4hZLsSWfLk_BqJjztH7BWJPX-CfROKMvrwVpb/s1600-h/gable+popout+angle+view.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376964021208283634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4Dmi4ukkglyJFsy-dm5BxPPsNTRHepWspUxK9I0XJp7T0-fJDHs-kZweSaQ_G79LJI3U7BtM57JVHXhxh7oB3I6PqIswg_z1uUE5CDE4hZLsSWfLk_BqJjztH7BWJPX-CfROKMvrwVpb/s640/gable+popout+angle+view.jpg" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 214px;" width="428" /></a></div>The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-31181745545871932772009-08-27T13:13:00.000-07:002009-08-27T13:50:31.405-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAt17FiAQABxUXiRRtlds-zOhJNDhgmtakj9IO8_uW3PhpRa9Ni3B8VjdwDKPHyzGBzsS1Orec5I8FiFi9ZIzdpYG7nFybzCv5hMPBOWMwWjdFBAca7jzcx3V5VGYRDz7tUH62J1qAFaIV/s1600-h/Newest+pic+of+shingle+siding.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAt17FiAQABxUXiRRtlds-zOhJNDhgmtakj9IO8_uW3PhpRa9Ni3B8VjdwDKPHyzGBzsS1Orec5I8FiFi9ZIzdpYG7nFybzCv5hMPBOWMwWjdFBAca7jzcx3V5VGYRDz7tUH62J1qAFaIV/s400/Newest+pic+of+shingle+siding.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374748806141985586" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwp0yvB0rxlZ-1uIglzyqKfHLTQZWwTWJFzhey0I-Uc-41u0CgAx53pPIM__XfCVtwSGenJTJpLU63CjER3XLDgh-lqQFYPxY6gESheHKrxWC-0bqT31sCuIzXREtmp-Wu7uMh4YwTrS0N/s1600-h/angle+view+of+completed+front.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwp0yvB0rxlZ-1uIglzyqKfHLTQZWwTWJFzhey0I-Uc-41u0CgAx53pPIM__XfCVtwSGenJTJpLU63CjER3XLDgh-lqQFYPxY6gESheHKrxWC-0bqT31sCuIzXREtmp-Wu7uMh4YwTrS0N/s400/angle+view+of+completed+front.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374743271463881250" /></a><br /><br /><br />Hi, Sorry about the long delay in new postings.<br />I have been down in California, working on my parents home. It was supposed to be a simple job of getting the house ready to paint. You know scrape loose paint, caulk windows & doors, etc. Well the built in gutters were leaking - the solder joints were breaking apart from expansion and contraction, so that was a couple of days work to repair and waterproof. <br />Then I found termites - that took some demolition, rebuilding and stucco patching to match. I called the painter to let him know there was a hitch in the schedule and the fumigators came next to make sure we got all of the termites. There was evidence (termite poop) of further infestation. I found more work that needs to be done and will require another two week trip, before the painter can get on with his job. Such is the life of a <span style="font-weight:bold;">Perpetual Remodeler</span>.<br /><br />I returned to Washington and finished shingling the front of the house. The gable end was going to look like one giant expanse of shingles, so I decided to add some interest. <br />I took a bunch of 2 ft. long pieces of 2"x6" and cut them diagonally to make long right triangles. I nailed these to the truss chords and then sheathed the gable end to provide a pop-out and create a nice visual break. I am very happy with the results. It was a bunch of work to try and bend the shingles, without breaking them. I wasn't prepared to build a steamer and try to soften the shingles, so I just pushed really hard and used a lot of extra staples. That's really loads of fun standing on top of an extension ladder. Lots of trips up and down the ladder, it is finally finished.<br /> The whole family loves the finished result. We sat out in front of the house the last two nights and just stared at it as the sun set and cast a warm glow across our freshly shingled home.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-15733393766225628642009-07-25T20:53:00.000-07:002009-07-25T21:09:40.904-07:00Shingle Siding Finally Started<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZfGtqABZXmpTBu3zvpnbL5BPov37_0AiUvUk_9qX8SIH4i5tH50cZ9Bp5EcWmUrfefskcnGREe-oFc_Gb_oXTi-hd4g7SniCK57ofYfpDPH3Pt7_X8COkNBMiCsKSXseU7Mg8fxtYTrh/s1600-h/shingle+siding+getting+started.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZfGtqABZXmpTBu3zvpnbL5BPov37_0AiUvUk_9qX8SIH4i5tH50cZ9Bp5EcWmUrfefskcnGREe-oFc_Gb_oXTi-hd4g7SniCK57ofYfpDPH3Pt7_X8COkNBMiCsKSXseU7Mg8fxtYTrh/s400/shingle+siding+getting+started.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362612772927373698" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsDfLAD-TXRkgYmWyYXxzwYysSzlgH64y2p5KUw_Wkf1pezrlOLCwUBcQaM_QwsiLS8XAmYYImuchE76dfZSFRCVp4zZY4RlCrt8OQH022Ng_QL3lGXS5TiYMotfNheRjmdKvxw9KsEAn/s1600-h/shingle+siding+window+trim+detail.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsDfLAD-TXRkgYmWyYXxzwYysSzlgH64y2p5KUw_Wkf1pezrlOLCwUBcQaM_QwsiLS8XAmYYImuchE76dfZSFRCVp4zZY4RlCrt8OQH022Ng_QL3lGXS5TiYMotfNheRjmdKvxw9KsEAn/s400/shingle+siding+window+trim+detail.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362612764552620514" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dxWhj6VVRmMO-_uun5qTttgmuAPUaAuzABd4YC6p3Mb6i-K8zp1VvYjryT8N_ViWZao_zXikmgdNytAegXmx3VDzylJ5ETA93yKL6oxn7U8DRQ4mF9SHqiugipVR3XosOzhgSp_j3ONH/s1600-h/shingle+siding+in+progress.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dxWhj6VVRmMO-_uun5qTttgmuAPUaAuzABd4YC6p3Mb6i-K8zp1VvYjryT8N_ViWZao_zXikmgdNytAegXmx3VDzylJ5ETA93yKL6oxn7U8DRQ4mF9SHqiugipVR3XosOzhgSp_j3ONH/s400/shingle+siding+in+progress.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362612757755648114" /></a><br /> The house is starting to look more like a craftsman/mission style home and less like a mobile home now that the shingle siding is started. I started with a non-incised pressure treated 2"x8" at the base as a water table ledger and added a 2"x4" sill to the water table. I ripped a 12 degree bevel on the front and back, so that it will shed rain water. The shingles are laid in three five inch exposure courses, then one three inch course to add interest and break the pattern. The windows are trimmed with non-incised pressure treated 2"x4"s. The sill is also beveled 12 degrees and has an apron underneath. I rabbited out a 3/4 inch x 1 1/4 inch space for the shingles to fit into, leaving a clean finish. The short shingles that go into this space are nailed in with galvanized brads, so that the nail heads won't show. For a neat detail on the window frames I cut in square pegs to carry out the mission theme. The pegs were ripped to 1/2" x 1/2" out of some old South American Cherry flooring that I had in the shop. It is not a true Cherry wood, but more similar to Mahogany, so it should hold up to the weather well. There is already felt on the house, so I am only adding felt where it is missing and around windows for additional weather protection. The window trim receives a small copper flashing over the top as an additional precaution. The copper comes from scraps that I have salvaged over the years and held onto.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-84107907223271863952009-07-25T20:40:00.001-07:002017-06-22T16:52:28.218-07:00Dipping the Shingles<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJW0hKo2rOl81pdO2r5tfT2gAFWXqCr8ZW2TTTP4zSl-pimzxIQFtULW57xOPzDnwDiLoKdpVO-kG67uIJhjl321j_t-TT0osN6LMJfkLBCyq4oi7eDewlBZ4TkHU_CqpVuLwcD9oY82i/s1600-h/shingle+siding+catching+the+runnoff.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362609260302878626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJW0hKo2rOl81pdO2r5tfT2gAFWXqCr8ZW2TTTP4zSl-pimzxIQFtULW57xOPzDnwDiLoKdpVO-kG67uIJhjl321j_t-TT0osN6LMJfkLBCyq4oi7eDewlBZ4TkHU_CqpVuLwcD9oY82i/s640/shingle+siding+catching+the+runnoff.jpg" style="display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" width="480" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsbd8qOo0C_HWbaVcCNoBwE8ojX2jdVyu3vetjUJSamne5Z_Tq79ccNWhGbxCcuzXHsCSBLhCXq9fBYwjLoO_noc6FnCTxOnrJFhTGRfix1skfDHpO_EryasgTF9B7TgJnI4w41mezT_I/s1600-h/Shingle+siding+checking+out+the+shingles.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362609252758696578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsbd8qOo0C_HWbaVcCNoBwE8ojX2jdVyu3vetjUJSamne5Z_Tq79ccNWhGbxCcuzXHsCSBLhCXq9fBYwjLoO_noc6FnCTxOnrJFhTGRfix1skfDHpO_EryasgTF9B7TgJnI4w41mezT_I/s400/Shingle+siding+checking+out+the+shingles.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAdTRGW2sr3wm1JZyYPELVPEazsnJv_pzNkxrLHw9vPj0IZgwpoy0EiWC0mzykM0IS9wm2hWiqqjc76Ip9QsfZMgCL9o7FO2Z9rjzef4W_gMh2JlNzeiUWD4DInH5fawhDcNEp1eae9E6q/s1600-h/Shingle+Siding+dipping+in+oil.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362609246483070210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAdTRGW2sr3wm1JZyYPELVPEazsnJv_pzNkxrLHw9vPj0IZgwpoy0EiWC0mzykM0IS9wm2hWiqqjc76Ip9QsfZMgCL9o7FO2Z9rjzef4W_gMh2JlNzeiUWD4DInH5fawhDcNEp1eae9E6q/s400/Shingle+Siding+dipping+in+oil.jpg" style="display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6hd5q-sRQBgvvpgfJs0B-VYdpO1ddg8HhhQaxPtMACInaW78i5UiCYqXVtJXDIS2Mj77KNQrP4AN9jzap-I5ZZd6LhfAhCYlVUIhNYoG9NjKdYjPK0TDz9wMsbyWT7ZoqfMSlCuH2E4R/s1600-h/shingle+siding+chevron+oil.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362609237201968802" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6hd5q-sRQBgvvpgfJs0B-VYdpO1ddg8HhhQaxPtMACInaW78i5UiCYqXVtJXDIS2Mj77KNQrP4AN9jzap-I5ZZd6LhfAhCYlVUIhNYoG9NjKdYjPK0TDz9wMsbyWT7ZoqfMSlCuH2E4R/s400/shingle+siding+chevron+oil.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
We started dipping the shingles and have completed enough to cover a couple of hundred square feet. It goes pretty fast. Daniel and I work as a team. He dips anywhere from five to fifteen shingles at a time, and lets them drain for a little while. He then hands them to me and I stand them up in the rack to let them finish draining. The rack is inclined toward a bucket that catches the excess. We let the dipped shingles sit overnight, then we stack the shingles and they are ready to go. We are using Chevron shingle oil, because it penetrates and offers lasting protection from insects and preserves the color. Dipping the shingles is time consuming and labor intensive, but offers superior protection to spraying them after installation. I am very happy with the finished result.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-17357797269672982322009-07-16T15:24:00.000-07:002009-07-16T15:35:26.770-07:00Go Sunday - Volunteers Needed for Foster FamilyOn Sunday, September 6, 2009 we will be building a barn for a foster family home in Tacoma. They need a place to store hay for a horse that was donated to help in the therapy of a little girl. I need volunteers with carpentry, labor, painting, and roofing skills. The barn will be 12' x 18'. That is the maximum we can build without a permit. I am the site leader on this volunteer project so email me at parksconstruction@gmail.com if you want to help with labor or materials. This barn will be a great blessing for a family that takes in children with huge needs. It will be a fun project that we will complete in one day.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-71238389728039941772009-07-15T10:03:00.000-07:002009-07-15T23:13:15.626-07:00Inexpensive Outdoor Structure<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-m1FU6aYkW2xfyqNH36fsKAHfaY6UVQGLtyf_roH3U39gOxu2L5QCCFwszylAk4nbCvK9QEKG-X4u28z66uzIRSd9iQNtHjz1hxuI8vAx0qgRUKXq8plOE-9BrrFifsnPhqRlyv2uNde6/s1600-h/protective+structure+detail+1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-m1FU6aYkW2xfyqNH36fsKAHfaY6UVQGLtyf_roH3U39gOxu2L5QCCFwszylAk4nbCvK9QEKG-X4u28z66uzIRSd9iQNtHjz1hxuI8vAx0qgRUKXq8plOE-9BrrFifsnPhqRlyv2uNde6/s400/protective+structure+detail+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358734044241722706" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Q3pT66H1qQ68ywir9_IxzjIPrRjG8IzUSsezl9FrA9T8EH0Yx_nIfa62OFydwbWyZXAB3eWMIJmPiJoybWJYGNLZPhm8_i1lFGQ89rTYtGl-6O0LY1G3Vqz5RH7tKnv7S29l_dYCarG3/s1600-h/Outside+Structure+Main+View.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 311px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Q3pT66H1qQ68ywir9_IxzjIPrRjG8IzUSsezl9FrA9T8EH0Yx_nIfa62OFydwbWyZXAB3eWMIJmPiJoybWJYGNLZPhm8_i1lFGQ89rTYtGl-6O0LY1G3Vqz5RH7tKnv7S29l_dYCarG3/s400/Outside+Structure+Main+View.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358734036899875810" /></a><br />We always need an outside area that is protected from the weather, just to sit and enjoy the outdoors or to entertain. Until recently we did not have a dining room table and ate outside - Rain or Shine, Hot or Cold. The outdoor structure we bought at Target, had definitely outlived its original purpose and it was time for a more permanent structure. My friend Sean gave me some clear polycarbonate panels, that were left over from a job of his. The length pre-determined the size of the structure I would build. I went to Home Depot and bought some 4" x 4"s and 4" x 6"s and cut them all on my sliding compound miter saw. I built the trusses on the ground and gave them a light sanding. By the end of the day the structure was standing, completed except for the the polycarbonate. The roofing was completed with lights and I went to bed tired and satisfied. The following morning Sheila and I ate our breakfast under the protection of our new structure. I need to give it a light sanding and apply a couple coats of finish. I may remove the roofing for this job and re-install it afterwards. It will be difficult to finish around it and the purlins would weather better if the finish was on all four sides.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-4481681170449987962009-07-12T15:07:00.000-07:002009-07-12T15:14:10.455-07:00Buying Tools on Craigslist<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWfpfhItYNmEZ_3mVO7yBxbKPP9cYim6-jb0z_GCwVRgVa71_nAKb4DnedC8TbWZeSCVjMtr4hyfZyyTbvmsZfcSgJz9LZZ32NJpPtMhptSOIkUSH3I09FCd9P5jOvKXy7Taod7ScGr0Y/s1600-h/playhouse+with+waterwheel.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWfpfhItYNmEZ_3mVO7yBxbKPP9cYim6-jb0z_GCwVRgVa71_nAKb4DnedC8TbWZeSCVjMtr4hyfZyyTbvmsZfcSgJz9LZZ32NJpPtMhptSOIkUSH3I09FCd9P5jOvKXy7Taod7ScGr0Y/s320/playhouse+with+waterwheel.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357699209139111234" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHBDjD_9eOIrPpDR45bsnSDhM19zQ9keT1ahmdSCu_hdDOciGJrEuMG3o6t1G8vPk5H9HUOgd35uhv_k3XBlfw3JQ7kxUQxAbLM97JJjhyuIdnLJvfChuofJiETf_cm2ffSGaYmj0HgWjl/s1600-h/Olalla+Cottage.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHBDjD_9eOIrPpDR45bsnSDhM19zQ9keT1ahmdSCu_hdDOciGJrEuMG3o6t1G8vPk5H9HUOgd35uhv_k3XBlfw3JQ7kxUQxAbLM97JJjhyuIdnLJvfChuofJiETf_cm2ffSGaYmj0HgWjl/s320/Olalla+Cottage.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357699201779603586" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoePKUZ4BNiAJRUHAKBrPlGd0AzeEzy9RHqf0fuxXlw11Ngb3QBc7zqbWK3qN2Z3JZnBalECmRd4J4JiyJq0kvdDvtEu0rTCRV_VRTmVHxfgxdxILPGr0_3CXg6V_udyXsr9hTH25lWKT3/s1600-h/concrete+mixer.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoePKUZ4BNiAJRUHAKBrPlGd0AzeEzy9RHqf0fuxXlw11Ngb3QBc7zqbWK3qN2Z3JZnBalECmRd4J4JiyJq0kvdDvtEu0rTCRV_VRTmVHxfgxdxILPGr0_3CXg6V_udyXsr9hTH25lWKT3/s320/concrete+mixer.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357699196843299506" /></a><br />Daniel and I went to Olalla, just north of us to purchase a concrete mixer we saw advertised on Craigslist. I often find great deals on tools and materials there. When we arrived at our destination, Wow! What a surprise! It looked like we were driving into a Disney theme park. The owner, Yvonne had used the mixer to make a patio in back and was finished with her projects. I said it looked like a great place to have a wedding or bed and breakfast. She told me that is exactly what she plans on doing in the near future. You never know what you will see or who you will meet - Life is really a fun adventure.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-88400646784322338332009-07-11T12:09:00.000-07:002009-07-12T08:53:20.252-07:00The New Siding is Getting Closer to Reality<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGX3yTUrsjICYiviPxoX6kMcGRWi4IHo0dWPbIiXfC1qsiMea0fIHtlZE6EcV6vbnRG53WZlJ4RWPyHglJLu3fl9NAwWIUO09jENdh4gviINT95ZnLrG3focEjAuiMYMNP0nZzAa9GA3w/s1600-h/aluminum+siding.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGX3yTUrsjICYiviPxoX6kMcGRWi4IHo0dWPbIiXfC1qsiMea0fIHtlZE6EcV6vbnRG53WZlJ4RWPyHglJLu3fl9NAwWIUO09jENdh4gviINT95ZnLrG3focEjAuiMYMNP0nZzAa9GA3w/s320/aluminum+siding.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357282469085690002" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3MM7P4wKOO2srXDAfXIofFlt9KRuTnCwptYfqNhfuFfThUoqxb-NjVVUGul-PA2pCQoAK7aji97FrcDyJu25hvNnxycIFMYEXsD-LHOAq55wNgxYfmyBmuEq9K0aVXS4DfkCXzKwRdDuk/s1600-h/new+siding.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3MM7P4wKOO2srXDAfXIofFlt9KRuTnCwptYfqNhfuFfThUoqxb-NjVVUGul-PA2pCQoAK7aji97FrcDyJu25hvNnxycIFMYEXsD-LHOAq55wNgxYfmyBmuEq9K0aVXS4DfkCXzKwRdDuk/s320/new+siding.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357282460283877378" /></a><br />I'm very excited. Some of the Mobile home look is coming off and going into the recycle pile, in preparation for the new shingle siding. I think I will put the shingles up in three courses of five inch exposure and one course of three inch exposure. That will make a nice look with the shorter course adding an accent and breaking up the large expanse of wall. I am so happy I found <span style="font-weight:bold;">A&A Shingles</span> in Forks, WA. - Mike Allen's prices are a third of the cost of buying shingles at the Building Centers.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-10995168643198423632009-07-11T11:52:00.000-07:002009-07-12T08:58:36.068-07:00Awesome Lumber Deal<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkCsJfnNiIabIGTmEjIMfzgqGr5Wf5Jpj7FCPEs0n55VtUSLEh_h-IPJbdWPHYrlsHjWeer8FapnBa0YYHfTS6HKPbB2_H1fCEimhgwmvLQ6MN0EIwwm_YfnujAtRlwC_RVNIwhXZWkkP/s1600-h/Carport+Ceiling.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkCsJfnNiIabIGTmEjIMfzgqGr5Wf5Jpj7FCPEs0n55VtUSLEh_h-IPJbdWPHYrlsHjWeer8FapnBa0YYHfTS6HKPbB2_H1fCEimhgwmvLQ6MN0EIwwm_YfnujAtRlwC_RVNIwhXZWkkP/s320/Carport+Ceiling.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357277767768938850" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiocYS2snsQX5puu_wizU8a2zSTmVyqz62fwWopZScbRtMpVvPoGrg39o9Cz35IsaudLgYBViic0iNj4zNw1wIoA52D358ZOiMPXUI0PQJxyU-tj6nuSF4pZoT-PURRiLHo5IFF7y28lqX8/s1600-h/cedar+T%26G.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiocYS2snsQX5puu_wizU8a2zSTmVyqz62fwWopZScbRtMpVvPoGrg39o9Cz35IsaudLgYBViic0iNj4zNw1wIoA52D358ZOiMPXUI0PQJxyU-tj6nuSF4pZoT-PURRiLHo5IFF7y28lqX8/s320/cedar+T%26G.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357277759745964002" /></a><br />The new fossil bed/parking pad is part of an overall remodeling project - "The Car Port" The ceiling above is an in-progress job. I framed it using 2" x 8" joists and decked it with 3/4" OSB T&G Sturdi-floor. On top of that I glued down a EPDM 40 mil. rubber sheet, that is impervious to the elements. The ceiling is clear cedar T&G that I purchased from Lyle Schindler in Tacoma. He is the owner of <span style="font-weight:bold;">Schindler Woods<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>, and his prices are nothing less than spectacular, compared to the lumber yards. I purchased all of this T&G in a package deal, fifteen cents a foot if I would take the whole bundle, and accept the waste along with the good. There was between 15-20% of the material that was waste, but the price was only 20% of retail. That works out to a cost savings of 60-70% over lumber yard prices. Lyle is great to work with, and has an extensive background in finish carpentry. He carries many wood products that are difficult to find elsewhere. I also purchased some vertical grain, shiplap paneling that will be featured in a future blog on Craftsman style Interior Trim.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-86903521097949598902009-07-11T11:38:00.000-07:002009-07-12T12:50:30.665-07:00Shortcut and Handy Tip<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92vCr4y29X360_-n2IdVuquwdD0M9Ndn2XW0EKfS8cdQtQD-v-EPiosmZFwU28lD3F-C1UklqWOv8OvxHX3xofbfCjyqt8163gkx5aV0FqOtMYdPXpEgMiPzNYyDazf07vR29R0lS7JNr/s1600-h/Router+Window.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92vCr4y29X360_-n2IdVuquwdD0M9Ndn2XW0EKfS8cdQtQD-v-EPiosmZFwU28lD3F-C1UklqWOv8OvxHX3xofbfCjyqt8163gkx5aV0FqOtMYdPXpEgMiPzNYyDazf07vR29R0lS7JNr/s320/Router+Window.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357274394295136130" /></a><br />Cutting out Windows and Doors in sheathing is always a chore. If you precut them before nailing on the sheathing, they often need to be trimmed or don't fit properly. I always carry a router with a straight bit for this job. If you look at the bit it has a spiral cutter, to help the cutter stay on course and follow the lumber. It also has a double bearing, which I often spray with Tri-flow or WD40, since they tend to heat up and stop spinning over time. The bit pictured is made by Ocemco. Amana and Velepec also make a straight bit with double bearings. The cut is always perfect and easy to make, except for the sawdust that sprays all over me. Do not try this with a 1/4" shank router bit, use only a 1/2" shank bit. The smaller bits will bend under this type of pressure. I use my old Porter Cable 1 1/2 h.p. router for this job. I own a couple of 3 h.p. routers, but they are just too cumbersome, and the 1 1/2 h.p. works just fine, as long as it is not pushed too hard. Next time you have a window or door cut out, try this technique. You will be pleased with the clean result. Make sure there are no nails or nail heads sticking out for the router to hit. It will shoot shrapnel all over and ruin an expensive router bit.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-1651617842719018592009-07-10T14:45:00.001-07:002017-06-22T16:59:54.173-07:00Logging Two Tall Trees<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivurc0Duf9XykxqsOTyVPRSOn7Q_4Bz7_hKUqzY81_MRbsBfS3BCnYclBDuhRKin5FwdgHqaxZ9fyhvoOEbrJQlJEKZqHoQytEtqOgD32IhzWBEJEfj_BMZokc8-0s01j6sU8pUFwXfqUx/s1600-h/Vince+Topping+Tree.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356951325085874066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivurc0Duf9XykxqsOTyVPRSOn7Q_4Bz7_hKUqzY81_MRbsBfS3BCnYclBDuhRKin5FwdgHqaxZ9fyhvoOEbrJQlJEKZqHoQytEtqOgD32IhzWBEJEfj_BMZokc8-0s01j6sU8pUFwXfqUx/s320/Vince+Topping+Tree.JPG" style="display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwXAWCx42Pm7pfVAGFWzjjTa7kKVeAWtIcc5tSeYfrEg2-j4H-KF_ezfFGIIkLowUC2WP_81yxVoxBUTVC_kIAjlnp5_20TrHnhU7V7Eg147My7lz_h4Q6XvB4wW08GPgvuOaY-YUu_0jK/s1600-h/Vince+climbing+tree.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356951323671256418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwXAWCx42Pm7pfVAGFWzjjTa7kKVeAWtIcc5tSeYfrEg2-j4H-KF_ezfFGIIkLowUC2WP_81yxVoxBUTVC_kIAjlnp5_20TrHnhU7V7Eg147My7lz_h4Q6XvB4wW08GPgvuOaY-YUu_0jK/s320/Vince+climbing+tree.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
Earlier this year Vincent Frey, owner of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Diamond Tree Service</span> came over from Spokane and cut down a couple of large,tall dangerous Fir trees. These trees were big enough to crush our house in a bad storm and were in the wrong place for any of us to have peace of mind during the big winter storms we have in Puget Sound. <br />
It was a thrilling day watching Vincent climb, limb and top these giants. The coolest part was his skill in cutting logs right off of the stump, and expertly landing them without damaging the logs or the driveway below. These logs are destined to be peeled and built into a gazebo this summer. It is really fun to think about using the logs for something more productive than firewood. Daniel stayed home from school the day Vincent came to take the trees down. It was an awesome educational opportunity to watch a master arborist at work. I was busy on the ground with rigging and pulling limbs out of the way, while Daniel took pictures and had the time of his life.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7950015934705101985.post-23953661154484801962009-07-10T07:51:00.001-07:002009-07-12T09:16:25.245-07:00Mission/Craftsman Style Entry<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91H2RhZ2lSbKGPgIPQbrfnjxgjfDKwILTtOEPaDsfe_hkPVvsNqQBw3XsrGGq121XJnZLmx4Ve_LjhU3qUzw4seZikWL68s6mog_xs6c8m3fRAD6tCvNIcMez2QoDqgPJULVoC0a0gkQ9/s1600-h/entry+frame+detail.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91H2RhZ2lSbKGPgIPQbrfnjxgjfDKwILTtOEPaDsfe_hkPVvsNqQBw3XsrGGq121XJnZLmx4Ve_LjhU3qUzw4seZikWL68s6mog_xs6c8m3fRAD6tCvNIcMez2QoDqgPJULVoC0a0gkQ9/s320/entry+frame+detail.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357608255265972178" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja1o8kELx-8YAb-2NRVDGJ3vRvdYz47o27PPC4YjCJMKHS_I_N5nNhT3SwS86i1w9bna2nR59P0ZEDl-tFKhZ9GVB16QiLFBfJvx5kFTOOgfcCPtXL6PcBi8HQm-zflrEDuHhHmYRVYycF/s1600-h/Ceiling+Colors.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja1o8kELx-8YAb-2NRVDGJ3vRvdYz47o27PPC4YjCJMKHS_I_N5nNhT3SwS86i1w9bna2nR59P0ZEDl-tFKhZ9GVB16QiLFBfJvx5kFTOOgfcCPtXL6PcBi8HQm-zflrEDuHhHmYRVYycF/s320/Ceiling+Colors.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356845448710512690" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqyLg4YB1DRDD_zlseGsaueaf2GJRwF0rLkiSISefGruGut8pZ6zQg14fFFCm3I4SEB8aVcVtNV9NGU7L9OAZktygK5bxK5ojZNZnIYrauqLvxVUoAEWM9a2GtY7fEOBIYax3gYK7SYxkM/s1600-h/Fence+Board+Balustrade.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqyLg4YB1DRDD_zlseGsaueaf2GJRwF0rLkiSISefGruGut8pZ6zQg14fFFCm3I4SEB8aVcVtNV9NGU7L9OAZktygK5bxK5ojZNZnIYrauqLvxVUoAEWM9a2GtY7fEOBIYax3gYK7SYxkM/s320/Fence+Board+Balustrade.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356845444922296818" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDlNCEOKPgedTVQHGKo04_uPW6-_sq5AMiZrrSEFb-aZ1RnRYPjHyaWkcZIHP2Qu2n65GRYI818Py_HPzEE1lFDt6uUDOBOsZZognBlHu8inw_ETubSK854udsQel0h6aNAZah-PbAlsU0/s1600-h/Craftsman+Entry.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDlNCEOKPgedTVQHGKo04_uPW6-_sq5AMiZrrSEFb-aZ1RnRYPjHyaWkcZIHP2Qu2n65GRYI818Py_HPzEE1lFDt6uUDOBOsZZognBlHu8inw_ETubSK854udsQel0h6aNAZah-PbAlsU0/s320/Craftsman+Entry.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356845433692626946" /></a><br />The old entry looked like an old fishing pier, complete with pier poles and rot. It was time to revamp the entry in anticipation of our new shingle siding. Budget is always an issue, so I decided not to hide the pressure treated lumber, but instead feature it. The 6"x6" posts and timber framing have the incise marks right out there where everyone can see them. I don't own a nice band saw yet, so I used a jigsaw with extra long blades to cut out the cathedral arch from pressure treated 4"x12"s. The balustrade uses 1"x6" cedar fence boards that I cut out also with the jigsaw, then eased the edges with a 3/16" radius bit. The ceiling and wainscot are just a mix of standard 2"x4"s, 2"x6"s and 2"x8"s. Daniel being the one with the discriminating eye for color and balance, stained the boards different colors and then we nailed them on to create a random pattern and mix of widths and colors. We were very pleased with the look and low cost of the project. It still needs a couple of coats of finish and more handrail/balustrade, but we will get to that..........some day.The Cranky Codgerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05839643173978863909noreply@blogger.com0