All walls up

The beam problem was resolved on Friday when an engineer confirmed that our builder could safely use four LVLs (laminated veneer lumber) instead of the steel beam, saving everyone the risk associated with getting a very large and heavy piece up two stories. With the LVLs a-go, the guys were able to finish the last of the exterior walls on the third floor, leaving only the roof, doors and windows to install. The windows and doors are now on-site and ready to go when the crew is ready. We thought the third-floor roof would be in place or at least well underway by the end of this weekend, but it didn't play out that way. We're hoping for a productive week this week.

John and I met with our designer, builder and deck builder on Friday and had a good discussion about the finer details of our decks. They sound like they will be beautiful and durable. In the warmer months, they will extend our living space by about three hundred square feet, maybe a little more. We love the idea of being able to go outside from every floor (the worry wart in me especially loves the idea of a quick escape at any time). Stay tuned...