Stairs - First Look

We got our first look at the steel frame for the main stairs this week and saw how they will fill the space in the tower.  Meanwhile, the mechanical rough-ins continued.  The electrician started installing light cans and wiring on Friday and helped us figure out how to light the downstairs hallway when most of the ducts and piping run through its ceiling.  The fireplace was installed in the living room on Monday.  The exterior finish crew continued to install more windows and doors, and cedar siding.  However, they ran into a problem on Friday when the battery on their suction attachment was not strong enough to hold our large windows so the crane could lift them over the house and into place.  We are awaiting Plan B. 

 

Beehive of Activity

We had 7 subcontractors working on the house this week.  The exterior finish crew installed more windows and started installing the cedar siding.  Mary is hoping that the siding becomes darker red with the second coat of stain.  Meanwhile, the roof-top HVAC unit was put in place.  Also, the fire sprinkler and plumbing rough-ins continued.  The framing crew returned to complete a few small items such framing in the ducts and plumbing chases.  The roofers installed sleeves around the exhaust vents.  And, the home alarm company walked the site on Friday to update their bid.  Whew.

First Snow

Golden received its first snowfall of the season on Friday.  It rained on several others days, as the temperatures progressively dropped.  Work on the exterior progressed slowly but we never complain about moisture in this part of the world.  The sun returned on Saturday and Dave's mom, dad, sister, and brother-in-law visited the site.  Dave's other sister and brother-in-law visited earlier in the week, too.

Roof Installation

The weather cooperated and the roof was nearly completely installed this week.  Just the membrane on the front deck and some flashing remain for Monday.  The framers also finished most of the final details, including the privacy walls on all three rear decks.  Dave made sure that the framers installed 3/4" plywood on the back wall of the wine closet so he can attach his wine racks (priorities!).  On Friday, the windows were delivered - it took a small semi truck - and next week the framing company will start installing them. 

Details, Inspections, Plans and Decisions

Not a lot new to see on the site this week.  The framing crew was working on small details.  The welder completed the steel portal and beams.  Roof framing and exterior sheathing passed inspection.  Our general contractor and architect met with the plumbing, HVAC and electrical subcontractors and planned their rough in work.  The roofer designed the downspout plan and should start installing the roof on Tuesday.  We selected our gas fireplace - Heat and Glo's new Mezzo linear fireplace.  So, instead, here are a couple of photos showing the beauty and fun we are experiencing while living in Boulder.  Enjoy the Labor Day weekend!

Topped Off

The roof was completely framed last week, with just a few small details left for this week.  Also, a lot of the exterior plywood sheeting has been installed.  The house is really taking shape.  It is thrilling to walk around and see the views from each of the windows.  The views from the 3rd floor windows and deck are dramatic and the two huge windows on the 2nd floor provide a panoramic view of the foothills, downtown Golden, and Clear Creek canyon. 

Roof Framing

This was a busy week.  The weather didn't interfere, except late in the day.  The framing of the stair column was finished - damn it is tall. The framers started installing the roof on the 3rd floor and over the garage.  And, Ian came home for a surprise visit and got to see the house nearly all framed.  It was fun to have both Ian and Katie at the site on Saturday!