Reinforcements

With the basement walls erected, the crew began to put the floor joists into position on the north part of the house. This new wing construction is a stark contrast to the construction techniques used at the turn of the 20th century.

New Addition Floor Joists

To begin framing in the old part of the house, it was first necessary to reinforce the structure. The floor was supported by a hodgepodge of tree trunks, stone mounds and brick columns. New steel columns were installed beneath the floor and the old floorboards were buttressed with new lumber.

Concrete Pads to Support New Columns

Strengthening the Floorboards

One large 25' x 25' room will be created from the space that once contained the living room, parlor, dining room, bedroom and bathroom.  With no walls supporting the weight of the roof, a steel beam was placed to carry the load.  The beam runs the length of the house to where the new construction begins.  Like the floorboards, the ceiling joists also needed to be supplemented.

Structural Steel Beam

Ceiling Joists

The chimney is located in the center of the original structure.  The new fireplace will be positioned along the north wall and the old flue is being abandoned.  The original chimney was preserved to protect the integrity of the home's exterior.

The Chimney is Shored Up

The final touches to tie the original structure to the new addition is accomplished by repairing the foundation that was removed under the old porch.  Care was taken to match the appearance of the original flagstone and an aging process will be used to blend the old with the new.

A New Footing Under the Old Porch

Concrete is Poured

New Flagstone Foundation