2012_10_24 Update (2)

The builders who helped replace the exterior trim this summer also re-hung the two front doors, which were sagging to the point that they hung like parallelagrams until light came through the gaps.  Since they were hung inappropriately, while the exterior trim was removed we also removed the interior trim and re-shimmed and secured the doors so they work without rubbing and have a solid seal.  These are Energy Star rated doors with warrantees, which are fiberglass and very heavy.  For them to be hung wrong is like driving a sports car with the emergency brake on, completely defeating their purpose.  I will eventually need to repaint the interior as result.  Good winter project. 

During this work the builders pointed out that the mudroom door was swelling at the base of the window, indicating water was seaping through the seal and ruining the door.  Eventually, mushrooms even started to appear.  I had to contact the manufacturer, who sent a replacement door.  Unfortunately, I now need to replace the door myself (labor is not included in the warrantee), which means refinishing the door with the cherry stain and finish, then rehanging it to exactly match the hinge, lock and latch of the original door.  When will this end?!?

2012_10_24 Home Update

Throughout the summer I have been replacing exterior door and window trim, as the originally installed trim has been rotting.  By starting the process myself I grew to understand how badly the original work was done.  Random nails were used, all of which were rusting through.  In some cases, only 2-3 wire nails were used to secure a 6' section of trim.  I could pull it off with my hands.  Other sections had no house wrap underneath, where moisture had begun to create rot on the wall of the house.  By starting the replacement process myself I devised a process that used PVC trim, caulk, and painting the pieces before installing them  with stainless steel nails, all to minimize deterioration and water damage and maximize durability.  Eventually I hired two men who removed old pieces and cut the new pieces.  I would paint the new pieces over night, and they would install them the next day, while continuing to remove other pieces.  All windows and doors have had their trim replaced, puttied, sanded and painted.  All window sills were also reinforced.  Due to a very rainy Fall it has taken until now for the final pieces to be painted.  The remaining fascia, rake and other exterior trimwork will need to be replaced also, which will include removing the gutters and electrical wires.  That will have to be another summer.  For now I waited for a few days of dry before filling rot holes with caulk, priming and painting the areas to retard deterioration.

2012_05_29 Finally Done!

2012_05_29 Delays, delays...