Put a Sweater on It!

Despite the harsh temperatures and the un-melting snow (unusual for Colorado winters), we have continued to build throughout the holidays and into the New Year. We took days off during the holidays, hence my lack of documenting, but have stayed loyal to the project. I’m proud of my team of helpers and especially Brian Sisk (my main building man), as our build progresses slowly but surely. We try and keep warm in our down jackets, hats, gloves, layers upon layers of clothing, and all fueled by a determined vision and thermoses of hot chocolate.

The focus has been siding. Before the siding could be mounted, my friends Kiva and Zach covered the house with mineral wool boards that act as a rain screen, while simultaneously insulating the Volstrukt steel studs from the outside. I sourced these from a local green building company. They are wonderful because we talk wall and window systems, venting, and tiny house green building. The mineral wool on the outside of the wall will greatly reduce the temperature conductivity of the framing. Basically, the tiny house is wearing a thick wool sweater and it has already made a noticeable impact on the interior temperature. Once we put the Roxul boards on top of the house wrap, we began putting up siding. I’ve chosen to mix new and used corrugated metal, with reclaimed wood. My Dad found some beautiful red wood siding at ReSource and I got a load of reclaimed cedar siding for free from the interior of a lady’s house. Both were unstained, and two coats of a clear stain was perfect for bringing out the grain. Staining wood in about 20degree temperatures was not ideal, but we dried them inside and the reclaimed wood turned out super nice.

Getting the siding up feels like a big step forward. It’s beginning to look like a real little house and I can hardly contain my excitement. The next step is to get the metal roof on and finish running electric and plumbing lines. I’m leaving electric and plumbing up to Brian to figure out. Mostly because I know I’m in over my head, and I’m more interested in other parts of the build.

Working two jobs, creating a life with a new puppy, and building a tiny house, have understandably taken over my life. Friends and family are making this all possible and I’m so grateful. Looking forward to some self-care time soon!