October

Jobsite is a mess!

It is well into October already, and looking back since our last post, so much has been accomplished on the cabin build. We were on a roll with continuing to get dried in before the colder weather sets in for good.

With this being our first fall and winter in Alaska, we are not sure when the first snowfall will happen on the property or what exactly to expect for temperatures as we settle into winter. The days are getting shorter which means we have been working by light in the mornings and evenings. We have been observing the snow creeping down the mountains week by week. It's so beautiful, but in the back of our minds we know winter is coming quickly and there is much to do!

Since mid-September, we have been dried-in, meaning the structure is sealed up, waterproof, insulated and actually livable--just very rustic. All windows have been installed successfully (7 total) along with our front door. Together we also hung the Tyvec waterproofing sheeting on the cabin. We worked through pouring rain that day to get it tacked onto the OSB. By the end of the day we were soaked and cold, but I am glad we pushed through despite the weather circumstances. We have been very blessed with good weather this entire build so we really shouldn't complain because of a little rain! The Tyvec waterproofing will likely be our 'siding' for the winter. Finishing the siding has been put on the back burner for now, besides we can't see it from inside :)

Pete purchased a used wood stove from our good friend Frank. He quickly refurbished it and installed the whole system. Being dried in and having the stove, Pete is able to work more comfortably all day long. The dogs sure enjoy laying on the rug in front of the stove too!

The warmth of the cabin has kept Pete a busy little bee. He completed the electrical work, including installing the electrical panel, all plumbing, skirting around the cabin for a better sealed crawlspace, installed a water pressure system, sanded and stained the timber frame cross beam and loft floor joists, toilet, shower (not fully functioning), recessed lighting in the living room and kitchen vaulted ceilings, met with the local electric company to begin plans to get 'on the grid' and electricity run on the property, insulated the walls, hung the vapor barrier and has begun work on installing dryall. Whew! That's why we haven't the time to write this all down, let alone take pictures to document the latest progress. We are so close to moving in and are so excited!
These coming weeks we plan to finish the drywall in the lower half of the cabin, paint the walls, install the flooring, install the kitchen appliances and simple cabinets, washer/dryer and water softener, install the bathroom vanity and cabinet, hook up the shower, finish installation of a few more lights and move IN! We got this, though our next update might be delayed!

Installing window #1. Looks easy, right?! There are lots of steps to ensure a long-lasting, water-proof window.

Rez' new favorite spot by the new wood stove.

Wrapping paper on the outside of the cabin, windows installed and Pete is finishing up the insulation & furring strips on the roof. Once that is completed, the metal roof will be ready to be screwed on.

Pete is in the loft tacking up the last floor joist.

Drywall work has begun! This is the bedroom.

October 15th, 2019 and there is no snow in the valley yet. We have been very lucky this season with the weather cooperating for the most part while we finish up inside the cabin.