The more time we hang around with our builders, the more I respect their skills and work habits. It’s possible they’re on their best behaviour when we’re there, but I don’t get that feeling.
Building a house presents creative challenges every hour. Ron, the head builder, has doubtless lost some sleep trying to work out how he’s going to build a roof valley or a set of stairs. He has had several suggestions about re-designing the foundation or a hallway, and they’ve all been thoughtful and practical. He thinks ahead for every little step of construction. Those are not things that even the most detailed plans can anticipate.
It was because of his advice that we now have a crawl space for our mechanical room and storage. The mezzanine was his idea, as were changing the window shape to improve the look of the view and narrowing the laundry closets to add 4” to the kitchen.
Some of his ideas have not seen the light of day, and, judging from the scrap pile, some mistakes have had to be cut away and re-built. I’ve observed a few details that aren’t exactly kosher, but I don’t know how to build. I believe the quality of construction is excellent. Occasionally I check plumb and level.
The interactions between crew appear easy, intelligent and respectful. They value each other’s abilities.
I’m glad they’re on our side.
