Green Hammer installed the steel trusses during one of the hottest weeks of the year.  Correctly positioning the first truss was critical because the alignment of subsequent trusses was based on properly positioning the first. This was not an easy task as Joolz Moorcroft was operating the boom truck in tight quarters, since the truck was wedged in between the house and a group of mature cedar trees.  When the truss was perfectly positioned, Andy Lacy owner of Forgewerks began welding it into place.  The temperature outside was near 95 degrees but in heavy long sleeves and welding it must have been over 110!  Andy’s welding was further complicated given that he was perched on top of the first story wall.  While Joolz and Andy were focused on their tasks, Mark Clark was busy alternating between the two.

The framing of our shop, which also began in July, used more traditional construction methods as it is composed of Forest Stewardship Certified (FSC) lumber with just three courses of Durisol at the base.  Although the shop is not insulated and is unheated, we provided for the possibility of finishing it in the future by placing radiant tubes in the floor and stub outs for a future bathroom.  We may never elect to finish the shop but we have provided for future flexibility, which is far less expensive now than later.  In addition, it provides a thermal barrier on the hottest side of the house which should help reduce energy usage.