Wait a minute on that tuck pointing. Before I get out my tools and get materials to start, I notice that the concrete porch deck was very poorly done as you may see in these pictures. The side porch deck is shot through with cracks and has sunk. It looks like the deck is exerting outward pressure on the wall causing it to lean. What started as a simple project of tuck pointing really means replacing the deck, steps and the top segment of sidewalk. The concrete caps on the walls must be replaced and the brickwork will have some extensive rebuilding. When we bought the house the inspector's report noted that the porch roof did not have sufficient rise and is not finished up to par. Problems with this are starting to show. So the porch roof also needs to be rebuilt. What at first seemed like a little cosmetic repair actually turns out to be the beginning of an epic journey. We will require the services of a competent Architect qualified in historic preservation. Some of this work I can do myself, but first we need sound plans.
Our house is a prime candidate for complete restoration. It is a solid house in the middle of an historic district. An historic district is a district of dreams and we bought into this dream. Historic Districts are plants of the Department of Interior administered by the National Parks Service. That is the same service that takes care of Yosemite and the Lincoln Memorial. The NPS has developed a standard for restoration. (See the link to the preservation briefs)
Our house has been made livable. It has new plumbing, wiring and a new heat and air system. The plaster has been replaced with sheetrock. There is a new kitchen. I would not say, however, this house has been restored. I have worked in construction since I was 17. I well know the work involved to restore a structure like our house. I am challenged to visualize the achievement in my imagination. Doubt pops up and blocks out my thoughts directed to the operation of faith. I doubt my ability to raise the necessary funds. I am bullied by the dead past. The first step of restoration is the restoration of faith. I must say I am successful and that I will rehabilitate this house to the highest standard of the National Parks Service and I must imagine this and believe it in my heart. Through my faith and imagination the Infinite Intelligence will infuse into my mind ideas which will enable me to manifest this thought. Important to keep constantly in mind is the finished project. The house will be more attractive and livable. The house will be a more valuable asset. Our state of mind will be more secure. Life will be better.
No comments:
Post a Comment