The framing for this project is all panelized. There is enough duplication between the apartment units that there are multiple walls of the same size that can be constructed more economically as panels in a factory setting. The exterior walls arrive with the exterior sheathing installed. Window and door openings are located and framed as part of these panels at the factory. We have subcontracted with a framing crew to install the wall panels, trusses and roof sheathing. The first of the wall panels arrived today and are ready to be placed. The framing crew will be here tomorrow morning to start installation. By this time next week the building will have taken shape!
Residential
Outdoor Living Update
Progress is continuing on the outdoor living project previously discussed here. The perimeter walls are going up now. These walls are solid concrete retaining wall block. They are double sided allowing them to be dry stacked vertically and used as both the inner and outer wall finish. A separate cap stone will be installed where the wall serves a a seat wall. Around the kitchen area, shown in the progress picture to the right, a granite counter top will be installed once the stainless steel kitchen appliances and cabinets are in place. The stone floor progress can be seen in this picture as well.
We are currently waiting for the bar stool structures to be delivered. They will be installed using a cantilever support system by Seating Innovations that will be mounted to the floor behind the wall. It will then extend through the wall. The chairs themselves will be aluminum to simulate the stainless steel finish of the cabinets. The seats will be cherry. The seats do not come with an outdoor finish from the factory, so we will be getting them raw and field finishing them with a marine finish. It will require maintenance, but should be good for several years before retreatment.
We’re installing the ceiling at this time as well. We are using vinyl soffit material as the ceiling finish. The flexibility of the vinyl allows it to conform to the wood framework of the barrel ceiling. The ceiling is being installed using screws to allow for future accessibility. This will allow access to the attic area for additions or changes to the electrical system or sound system. Can lighting is being installed throughout along with some ceiling fans and chandeliers. There are also surround sound speakers planned for enhanced television viewing. There will be hurricane shutters that require periodic maintenance as well. When necessary, the ceiling can be removed to access the shutters and actually lower them for service if necessary.
Outdoor Living Project II
We previously told you about our work on an outdoor living project here. Indiana weather hasn’t helped us with progress this Spring. We had to wait for the weather to warm up enough to complete the masonry on the fireplace before we could make the tie-in with the rest of the structure. Once that happened in March, we were able to complete the framing, but then April came with nearly constant rain delays. Since that time we have completed the roof structure, installed the shingles and the EPDM roof on the flat section. We have completed the barrel ceiling framing. We have also completed the perimeter retaining wall.
Next on the schedule is the electrical rough-in. The Owners finalized the lighting layout and have made most of the fixture selections this week. We will be running the electric in flexible plastic conduit for maximum future options. The Owners use a computerized lighting and security system in their home. This system will be extended to the cabana to allow remote control of the lighting and other electrical systems.
We are also about to begin the installation of masonry walls that define the room. The walls are solid core decorative retaining wall blocks that are designed for mortarless installation with vertical installation. The critical area will be around the kitchen area where the interior dimensions are crucial for the kitchen cabinets and appliances while the exterior dimensions are crucial to the column alignment and hurricane shutter locations.
Check back for futher updates where we’ll have additional pictures of how it all comes together.
Destiny’s Wish
Easterday Construction was happy to help with the preliminary planning and estimating for Destiny’s project. We have offered to contribute some additional overstock materials as well if they will help. We want to wish the other volunteers the best as they embark on this project. We also sincerely hope that Destiny gets her wish and enjoys it immensely!
