Peeling Back the Layers

The house project is moving along - still in the demolition phase.  A lot of oddities are being uncovered, some are adding on to the cost of the project.  The extra layer of clap-board was unexpected.    A lot of sawing and hammering is involved in taking it down.  Old windows and doors have been found, which will require extra plywood/board to cover up.

This costly project might seem like a good reason for purchasing a new vs. older home.  While that might seem true at the outset, one thing that is obvious, is that this house is sturdy and well built.  After hearing horror stories of new homes settling, foundations shifting, leaking roofs and windows, it seems like the enormous expense of doing this job the right way is not as outlandish in the long run.

Aesthetically, we will have what appears to be a new home.  That is a bit bittersweet as it is nearly 200 years old.  However, going the route of preservation was no longer possible and we are thinking more towards maintenance, energy efficiency and durability.  The only other exterior maintenance will be a new roof in another 10 - 15 years.  Maybe a new kitchen window down the road.

We are still at least four weeks away from completion and it is slow going.  Good things take time!

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