remodeling... or not

[low_delta]

This thing is getting depressing. I had no idea I was this bad at it. I was working pretty much all day on it, and there are about six new boards in place. That's it. I did a lot of planning. I didn't get very far on execution, though. I have only a week left, out of 2-1/2, and I'm probably an eight of the way done. I worked from 2:00 to 9:00, with a little time off when a friends stopped by to gawk, and some more time off to eat and talk with another friend (he gave suggestions).

Why, in six hours, did I get what looks like one hour's work done? What the fuck is my problem?

Some of it has to do with the fact that this is not simply tearing stuff down and putting new stuff up. It is tearing crap down, and trying to figure out how to build totally new stuff. But I'm not even to the hard parts yet. So far, I'm just framing to cover the holes, so I can put up the wall board. After that, I have to do the tiling - which I have never done before. I'm not too worried about it, though. I did a lot of research before I started, so I kind of know what I'm up against.

I also have to do the plumbing. I need to get it done quickly, so I'm not without a toilet for very long. I was worried when I saw what the faucet valve entailed, but Bill says it's not too rough. I just have to make sure I have the right pipes to attach. I think I could get the pipes in in a day, but it would be a long day, and that doesn't include taking out the old pipes, or demolishing some more of the wall. So maybe it will take me a day and a half. That's tomorrow and Tuesday, and I'd be done in time to meet Cyn for dinner. If things go well.

Where would that leave me? If I get the plumbing done then I can finish the framing. Then I have to put the shower floor in. That's gonna be a royal pain. That's a whole day right there - If I work quickly for a change. Then I can put the wallboard up and start tiling. Two more days. That takes me through friday, at best. Then grouting. I have no idea how long that will take.

After that, I can start on the rest of the room. Joy.

Christmas sucked this year too.

Comments

[serendipity.livejournal.com]

Is there anyone you can ask for help? It sounds like a truly daunting task for just one person.

[low-delta.livejournal.com]

I've got a couple of people that I couild ask, but I can't think what they could help with.

[oberon.livejournal.com]

It's not as bad as it seems. I know nothing about your projects, but they're all like that. Fix the essential shit first, then deal with the rest later. Doesn't matter if it's finished, as long as it works and you're not breaking it by using it. Sounds like a bathroom reno. Grouting wall tiles (the essential bit, floor grout can wait till you have time if you're tiling it) will take you a box of grout, some water, a bucket you're gonna throw away after 'cause that stuff doesn't rinse out worth a damn, a stick to stir with, a float, and a sponge. Or rag. Preferably sponge. One tub-to-ceiling grout job, standard size tub... 15 minutes grout mixing, 10 minutes slaking, call it 40 minutes grouting, 25 minutes cleanup, 15 minutes wipedown of excess after it dries some. Give or take a bit, that should do you.

Then caulk the tub to tile seam, let 'er cure for a while and your tub works.

I don't do this shit professionally but kind of on the side. Electrical, plumbing, framing, drywall, cabinetry, masonry, welding, automotive.. y'got a question, feel free to ask.

the answer guy

[low-delta.livejournal.com]

I imagine the grouting will take me all day. >:-D

Thanks. I'll let you know how it turns out.

Re: the answer guy

[oberon.livejournal.com]

Well, if you think it will, best to mix several small batches of grout rather than one big batch. You get better consistency with one big batch, but it dries into un-workability in about an hour. Cover with a plastic bag to slow this down, but it'll still cure on you, just slower.

You'll find the grouting easy, I think, and the cleanup will take the most time. Best to have a good supply of fresh water handy, when the sponge gets full of grout from wiping it does nada for you and then you have to rinse it out well.

5 gallon pail would do it about best, then dump that sucker in the alley or it'll clog your pipes :p

Re: the answer guy

[low-delta.livejournal.com]

Good tips. Thanks.

[cynnerth.livejournal.com]

Christmas sucked this year too.
*trying really hard not to take that personally*

"Christmas" sucked?

[cynnerth.livejournal.com]

yeah, I know what you meant, I think. You aren't talking about the gifts you got, or the gatherings with friends and family, or the food. You're talking about your health and the tough time you had with gift-giving.

Re: "Christmas" sucked?

[low-delta.livejournal.com]

Yeah, the gifts I got were great, and I always enjoy getting to gether with people. But gift giving is the important part, and I sucked. But there were other (less important) things.

(((((((Kevin)))))))

[msfledermaus.livejournal.com]

Prep work always takes more time than the next steps, trust me on this one.
I bet it'll be okay. and bathrooms are a real annoyance to remodel, all the possible water damage or grouting or experimenting with the wonderful world of tiles...

(Hugs you)

Deep breaths now. It'll go faster, I'm sure of it.

[stormy-brow.livejournal.com]

*squisy hugs*

Projects like those always take waaaay more time than you think they will. I certainly learned that in my sculpture class.

The way my instructor put it: Estimate how much time you think your project will take, double that, and add a few more hours for good measure.

Go easy on yourself, bud. :)

[specificocean.livejournal.com]

Remodeling sucks....