And, so, we were greeted one day by our builder, Dean Chamberlain, who was holding out a small section of Zip Panel for us to see. The Zip Panels are an alternative to Tyvek or other wall materials which provide an all important air barrier. They offer several advantages, however, the most important, for us, being improved breathability. They are also energy efficient and renewable. They would also qualify for LEED points were we seeking such certification.
Following the framing of the lower level rooms, the visible work of framing the exterior began. The garage was the first part of the house to be obvious. The Zip Panels made for a distinctive exterior.
The first section of the main house to be framed was the entrance. Here John illustrates how he will welcome future guests.
As the framing proceeded, the view from Lot 2, directly east showed the garage, the craft room, the kitchen and the music room peeking around the two giant Blue Spruce that the architect worked hard to design around and the builder and his able crews have tried hard to build around. So far--so good.
The view from Lot 5, directly west, reveals the master suite and entrance to the lower level.
Framing will continue for several weeks. The first floor will be completed. Then the crew will roof the garage so that the windows can be stored there when they arrive. Then the second floor will be framed and the temporary roof will go on. All of this, hopefully, in time for winter.
