Staying the course
As often happens in a big remodel, it turns out the Ranger Cabin needed much more than we anticipated. Nate started digging in, quite literally, this Spring and we both realized we needed a reality check with our goal of having the renovation complete by Fall. It was and is simply not possible. Nate’s focus shifted entirely to targeting the exterior and utilities in hopes he could get it fully sealed up before another winter. The list includes:
Address the exterior foundation and water issues
Repair and reconnect the septic system
Run the solar power connection from the Big Cabin
Connect the back up generator and build a winter housing
Replace or seal rotten wood exterior
Insulate the porch and back exterior
Replace original windows
Replace front and side doors
Sand and paint exterior
Start phase 1 build out on front and side entrances
Order and deliver all essential materials for interior projects before snow sets in.
At first glance it’s easy to think, well I don’t see what should take so long, but each of these has a rather expansive subcategory list within. Nate is not really the type that sits still, so he’s really made some great progress.
Addressing the foundation also means replacing a lot of rotten wood siding and supports.
Added metal flashing to keep out chipmunks, mice, and voles.
Repaired and re-connected the septic system. Yay to inside toilets!
Trenched from the Big Cabin.
Running a surplus of wiring for power and beyond.
Phew. And yet this does not even scratch the surface! These are definitely not the sexy and exciting aspects of a renovation project. In fact, most of them are already hidden from sight, but they are completely essential.
In other news, the wild flowers this Spring were incredible. There were so many varieties I had never seen before and it made for a welcomed distraction from the, it has to get way uglier before it gets better, views of the Ranger Cabin.
