Friday, July 13, 2012

Onward and Upward

I prefer to see this, not as a roofless third floor, but as a well-ventilated room with a vista:

Amazingly, the part that still covered by a roof (on the left side) is not our space. It's our neighbours' (unfinished) attic.
On the plus side, we're in the middle of a mini-drought here... Every forecast for rain has evaporated into 32 degree sauna-days. Scott has been soaker-hosing the gardens nightly.

A propos of gardens, the workers have been very respectful of my garden, not partially because, before this reno got started,  I totally acted like a crazy woman (bunny-boiling, not hysterical) and advised them that I will actually lose my mind if harm befalls my plants.
Here's a shot of the recently-removed chimney foundation at the floor:


The carpenter was shocked and horrified to discover that the chimney bricks directly abut the wood frame of the house. He can't believe this place didn't burn down during the half a century when the chimney would have been the primary source of heating for the house.

Just in case you thought modern construction cornered the market on scary.

In truth, this project is totally fascinating. I would happily watch this reno on television with a bowl of popcorn, yelling at the screen about how insane those homeowners were to have ever undertaken something so huge.

12 comments:

  1. I'm biting my nails! What will you do about the chimney bricks?

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    1. We're not replacing the chimney so it's not an issue. We'll just go over that spot with floor boards (and insulation? - I'm not sure what gets insulation...)

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  2. Wow this looks like quite the job!!! Well as someone watching from the outside I definitely don't think you're crazy. I know once this job is finished it will be phenomenal. And I applaud you for protecting your plants. The crazy act is definitely an effective method! LOL!

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    1. Thank you V! And I highly recommend the occasional crazy act. Especially if it saves your plants :-)

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  3. It's going to be great in the end. Hang in there.

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  4. I like your positive attitude! Am ready for your reality show...

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    1. I'd half consider it if they'd pay for the materials or labour - or anything! :-)

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  5. Wow, that is just crazy. Old homes have such secrets to hide. And you are so not kidding about the drought/evaporation issue. It was crazy humid yesterday. Good luck keeping your sanity!

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    1. They do have so many secrets! I'm feeling good about the sanity today. Who knows about tomorrow.

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  6. Oh my goodness. I'd have turned to drink by now. It's going to be spectacular when its done but will you have any fingernails left?

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    1. I have turned to drink - and compulsive knitting :-)

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