September 11, 2023 – Shingles, doors, bird houses and crawl space cover design

We enjoyed a relaxing weekend, and took the opportunity to complete some ‘to-do’s’ on Roadie and get some shopping done.  It was sad to see three couples leave our team.  It’s always sad to say goodbye, but we look forward to seeing them again at a future Sullivan build. 

We shall never forget.

It was a beautiful, cool and cloudy day to work today, with the temperature only getting into the mid-70’s.  It was nice to see that the roofers had come over the weekend, so we now have a shingled roof!

With one of our remaining couples not feeling well today, our small but mighty team was down to 4 Care-A-Vanners and 4 local volunteers.   We were assigned tasks that need to be done while we are waiting for the windows to be delivered.   Richard and Gene installed the front and back doors, Ramona and Sandy marked out the locations for the kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, and Howard built the bird boxes that allow for soffit installation around corners.

Joe and I had the job to build a cover for the crawl space opening.

In previous years, we basically built a box with custom built trusses from 2×10 lumber.   As you could guess, the finished cover was super heavy – and needed two strong people to move it.   We were given the challenge to construct the cover using all 2×4’s and OSB.    So, the first step was to draw out some plans, and figure out how to provide strength and keep the weight down.   After we got some sketches done, we set to work on building the box, and cutting the angled sides from OSB.

In order to make the angles work, we had to rip the front piece at an angle and customize the side supports.

We started to build the bracing, but it was time to call it a day.   We will finish our masterpiece tomorrow :-).

After work, we were treated to a gourmet home cooked meal by a local church.   They brought all of the food to us, and we enjoyed it in the Faith Lutheran gathering room.  We had meatloaf, hamloaf, salad, mashed potatoes, corn, and amazing desserts.   What an amazing way to end another great day.  God is good!

 

5 Replies to “September 11, 2023 – Shingles, doors, bird houses and crawl space cover design”

  1. Stay dry! The puff puff clouds on the second picture indicate rain within 24 hours. This was taught to me by a former Girl Scout leader. She used to watch the sky just in case they needed tarp for the next day when they went camping. Let me know if I am right.

    You and Joe are doing a great job working on the house. God Bless you both.

  2. Love that clip about who we’re and what we’re all about .
    The spirit of this country wasn’t about a hand out but a hand up .
    This is a day to remember what evil is and pray for the healing of our country .
    God bless you all and God bless America and keep us safe , Lord .
    The devil is strong but with You on our side we shall overcome .
    Hugs, blessings and be safe .

  3. Thanks Debbie for sharing your stories and pictures! The house is looking great and you and Joe are certainly great builders. I’m impressed with your new plans for the crawl space cover. You’ve come so far in your skills and it’s fun to watch your confidence grow. Miss you both.

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