Once the DWV has been planned out, installing the plumbing is a relatively simple process that involves drilling holes in studs and joists, cutting the pipe to fit, and cementing the fittings to the pipe.  The key is to always …

Step 13a – Install the Plumbing Read more »

You can see how I’ve been trying to keep the OSB flooring dry with a tarp but with the walls going up it is difficult.  Luckily, I spent some extra money on Weyerhauser EdgeGold OSB subfloor and according to their …

Step 10 – Frame the Second Floor Read more »

Solving small problems is a huge part of building.  I’ve always enjoyed crossword puzzles and the like, so I shouldn’t be at all surprised that I am enjoying building the house so much.  Today’s problem was how to lift 24 …

step 9b – Install the Subfloor Read more »

Before the subfloor can be nailed onto the joists, small sections of 2×12 called “blocking” must be installed.  Together with the rim joists they ensure that the floor joists won’t roll onto their flat sides where they can easily bend.  …

Step 9a – Install Blocking and Plumbing Read more »

Flooring is pretty basic, and if you’ve ever noticed how a deck is built then you have the gist of it.  Long boards called joists are laid out parallel with each other and on their sides so they won’t bend …

Step 9 – Frame the Floor Read more »

With all of the 1st floor walls complete, it was neat to be able to navigate the rooms and get an idea of the feel of the dimensions of the house.   Before moving on to the 2nd floor I needed …

Step 8c – Plumb and Line Read more »

To an experienced framer, the work I have completed over the last couple of days would seem wrong.  It is quite possible they would never have seen a house framed the way that I am framing mine.  A few might …

Step 8a – Utilize Advanced Framing Techniques Read more »

Capillary forces are very powerful.  Have you ever been to a redwood forest and wondered how water gets from the roots to the leaves at the very top of the tree?  The answer is capillary force, and surprisingly, it works …

Step 7b- Add Gravel, Vapor Barrier, and Rebar Read more »