Need advice on exterior rennovations

[Ecky]

We don't have any heat in Vermont.

But, it is also more expensive.

[redpoint5]

Yeah, I wouldn't use composite in AZ, but then again I don't think I'll use wood on the south side of my rainy deck. Staining every 2 years is for the birds.

I'd do patio instead of deck too if it made sense in my situation.

[Ecky]

I decided to start on the house since it was a long weekend. First step was to have the electric utility wrap the lines, then fetch supplies.

2000lbs later:




Demolition: Chimney, siding, sheathing in some areas, windows, phone line (tossed it in a pile under the pole).




Mold paint for very mild surface mold, excavation for anything deeper.




While I was at it I decided to re-route through the old chimney pipe into the basement the mains power, off peak water heater, cable internet, heat pump disconnect box, so there would be fewer penetrations through the siding. In fact, the only penetration will be a couple of nails for the service entry brackets, and the heat pump high and low pressure lines. I left the old mains power connected for now with the new one coiled up below, until the utility can get out to shut off the power.




Fished the new power lines up from the basement - what a bear! This house was built on railroad ties, with 4" thick subfloors on top of that. I cut down as far as my extension hole saw would go, then came in at a ~60 degree from the basement to intercept it.




Since I had to open up a wall to get the power up, I decided to take the whole mudroom apart and 4-season it. Framed out one of the windows.

[California98Civic]

One hole thru the siding is smart. Save power. Corgi dog is smart, too. Save soul.

Nice little place, too. I miss the Old Country.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

AFAIK railroad ties used to be treated with Creolin in order to prevent mold.

[Ecky]

Originally Posted by cRiPpLe_rOoStEr

AFAIK railroad ties used to be treated with Creolin in order to prevent mold.

They are, but the sheathing is certainly not.

[Ecky]

Figured I would update this:

Finally started tackling the deck, and towed away the last of the chimney.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

So, what are you going to do with that open area to replace the deck?

[Ecky]

Going to be a new deck, just slightly reduced in size so it stays fully under the roof. If I can get away with it, I would like to not put railing up.

[freebeard]

IIRC 18" above grade. Have a step down from the door?

At least 6 ft wide to be useful. Ventilate under it to keep it nice.