That old house #3: You'll finish when?

Although I told the client MANY times that this remodeling job will take a long time, I do not think she believed me. Working by myself, and for only a couple of hours a night, it is rather difficult for real progress to take place. There were many items that put a crimp in me accomplishing a lot, the least of which is a demanding client. I left off in the last installment showing a gutted shell, with only a little plumbing and electrical completed.

Time now to install the windows. The client wanted to be able to see out. The backyard is overgrown with shrubs, vines, and trees. Birds are everywhere, along with the occasional raccoon and squirrel. The 3’ x 6’ window fit where the closet used to be. Other then routing wires, plumbing, and HVAC – it really wasn’t that difficult.

As soon as that was finished, I was able to move on to the sink window. I ordered the window to fit the previous opening, so installing the new one went in without a hitch.

The client said the kitchen was cold in the winter. Well, I guess so. Sure, the siding had some backing to it, and that was placed over the existing wood siding, but that was it. In order to get around the upstairs bathroom stack, I had to build out the wall (they plastered over the drain, leaving part of it sticking through the wall). Although I had another inch to play with, I was still limited as to how much insulation I could put in. The best I could do is use rigid and spray foam, cover with bat insulation and then cover with 6 mil plastic. It is quite warm now.

Finally – I’m drywalling and mudding now. I know it’s my fault, but this job changes by the minute. We knew going into the job that it would evolve as we go. However, when everything is said and done, it will be exactly the kitchen the client wants.

I’m hoping to finish the drywall and mudding this week (working a couple of hours a day does not allow for a quick end to this phase). Next job is to tile the area around the large window. Fortunately, the client has 6 boxes of the handmade tiles left over from the original tile job, so I’m not worried about running out.

Until next time – happy building and remodeling!

-- No matter how many times I measure, I always forget the dimensions before I cut.