During rainstorms, water had been running into our basement. Our solution was to dig a trench to connect the runoff with the existing storm water management system. So far, it seems to have solved the issue. Occasionally, the trench becomes a babbling brook when it rains particularly heavy.
Bridging the Gap
Every trench needs a little bridge to wheelbarrow across. My husband welded old angle bar (donated by a neighbor) and clamped wooden planks (repurposed from our old exterior steps) to the angle bar. The bridge rests on stones from our yard and the approaches are padded with gravel (leftover from the driveway).
Reused Chimney
This double insulated chimney pipe is leftover from the former propane heat system of our home. We have repurposed it for use with our masonry stove.
Opening the Ceiling
In anticipation of opening the attic for raised ceilings, we double insulated the roof and beefed up the rafters with a second layer of wood. The existing insulation was reused from the ceiling, minimizing cost and waste.
Enclosing the Veranda
The enclosed veranda keeps our house warmer and makes a nice little winter garden. We repurposed discarded French doors from a jobsite.
Our Masonry Stove →
In the basement we made this masonry stove. During the day we keep the fire going. When the fire goes out at night, the thermal mass of the masonry stove continues to radiate warmth until the morning. The masonry stove gently warms the upstairs floor and keeps the basement dry.
