February 6 - 19, 2006

  Reinforced Ceiling        New Insulation 

    Pantry Area 

   A bookshelf will fit nicely between the garden windows

Week 3 was all about the ceiling reinforcement and the lighting.  

Our builder Jamie is meticulous about the structure and support of the ceiling.  As he planned out the new reinforcement issues he also considered where the lights, stove exhaust, and porch door* might need to go. 

Above the room is a large dormer and crawl space.  In the past, the beams were unevenly spaced at far distances apart.  Twenty four and thirty-six inch spans are not acceptable by today's building code.  It is reassuring to know that Jamie's improvements will satisfy any future plans for the expansion of the dormer upstairs.

After a discussion with my designer Sue,  Jamie and I sorted through a lighting plan and then I watched while he and his partner Rob carefully plotted it out among the many new ceiling joists.  John the electrician spent several days working out the electrical plan.  I never realized how important switches, dimmers, and switch locations are.  With the help of the crew I was able to make some logical choices.

In week 4, the electrician had gone as far as he could and left.  he will return for finish work later.  Inspections went great and then it was time to put up the wall board.  Now we can see the true shape of the room and appreciate the work that goes into a lighting plan.  I can't stop turning them off and on at night!

* I live in Hollis's Historic District and must apply for approval of any exterior changes to the house.  I was able to get on the agenda for the next meeting and get approval incase we needed to move the porch door.

Remodel Journal