Hey, everyone! It's been a minute since the last update, and I'm excited to share the progress on our journey to turn this pole barn into a cozy home. The weather's playing nice, and we're diving back into the metal work, despite the chill in the air.
Before I jump into the nitty-gritty, let's talk about the weather forecast. Tomorrow is looking promising, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-40s, and the good news is, it seems like the mild weather is here to stay for the next week or so. That's a welcome relief for working outdoors.
Now, let's rewind a bit to where we left off. I had to hit pause to get the porch sorted out, and here's where we're picking up the thread.
Back to the Steel: Planning for Windows
I've been waiting on a piece of trim, which should arrive in the next day or two.
However, working with steel on a structure intended for residential living, complete with lots of windows, presents its own set of challenges. It's a whole different ball game compared to simply putting up steel on a barn.
I took a strategic approach in my planning. The wainscoting was designed to intersect with the windows intentionally. This decision, though it might seem counterintuitive, was made to simplify the process. Working with smaller sections around the windows is far more manageable than dealing with massive, uncut pieces.
Strategic Notches and Breaks: Simplifying the Task
To further ease the installation process, I added a linear break using a piece of trim. This not only defines the gable but also divides the task into more manageable sections. It's all about making life a bit easier, especially when you're dealing with multiple windows and intricate details.
Now, let's tackle one of the more challenging parts – the piece around the upper window. Not only does it involve notching around the window, but there's also an angle cut for the roof, a curve around the overhang, and another notch around a lower window. It's a bit of a puzzle, but with careful planning and precise execution, we got it up and secured.
Soffit and Fascia Dance: Navigating Corners
Moving on to the soffit and fascia, I utilized a neat trick for the corners. Instead of opting for a double-sided piece, I took two separate pieces and ran them back to back. This not only looks clean but is a practical solution that I've found works well in my experience.
Sealing the Gaps: Waterproofing Measures
Waterproofing is a critical consideration, especially around notches and intersections. I applied some flexible window seal tape to ensure no water finds its way into unwanted areas. It's all about staying one step ahead of potential issues.
Show Length and Future Plans: Your Input Matters!
Before I wrap up part 1 of the steel episode, I want your input. I'm thinking of keeping the episodes around 10-12 minutes to make them more digestible. Let me know if that works for you or if you have other preferences. Additionally, I'm planning on creating how-to and tool playlists. If there's something specific you'd like a short tutorial on or a tool review, drop a comment!
As always, your support is incredible. If you haven't subscribed yet, hit that subscribe button, ring the bell for notifications, and stay tuned for more updates. We've got more giveaways in the pipeline, and I can't wait to see this community grow.
Thanks for joining me on this adventure, and until next time, happy building!
Join Patreon
Interested in tackling your build on your own? If you want to explore the possibility of being your GC or self-building, our Patreon membership is for you! It's a community of like-minded people offering support, discounts, Q/A, and more.