House Projects

Goal: Clean the washer and dryer set from previous owners and wash all new linens.

Update: The washer + dryer set left behind turns on and appears to operate but upon closer inspection, the washer does not spin properly and the dryer was setup to vent inside of the basement into a bucket causing humidity issues.

Outcome: After a few repair tutorials failed to solve the washer spin issue and not wanting to drill any holes into our 145 year old bricks for venting, we re-evaluated buying new appliances. Due to specific constraints on the dyer utilizing new vent-less technology, the options were limited and expensive. One open box return was available saving us 50% off new ticket price! Soon after we found the same deal for a matching LG washer! Added a computer desk mat to keep clothes off the basement floor and now we are operational! 

The last step is to paint this laundry area.  

Actual Cost:

• Staples Clear Vinyl Desk Chair Mat $40 (with $5 Paypal coupon)
• LG Electric, Ventless Dryer (list prices $1,170), open box price $668
• LG High-Efficiency Washer (list price $945), open box price $462
• Total: $1,170

Goal: Remove drop ceiling, get wifi installed and bring over desktop setups.

Update: After evaluating source of old water leak under the drop ceiling, it was determined both the drop ceiling and prior damaged plaster with blown-in insulation would be (safely) removed. Woolrock insulation and drywall were delivered to reach the full ceiling height and maintain warmth in our intended work space. 

Outcome: (Not yet complete) 

Actual Cost:

• 7′ Executive Cherry Desk: $4 at auction
• Drywall Pieces (4x at $ /ea.)
• Rockwool Insulation 
• Renting Device to Lift Ceiling Drywall 
• Electrical Outlets and Covers (not needed)
• Expand wifi coverage (>>> a later project)
• Total: 

Goal: Period appropriate dining room table with leaves, 6-12 chairs and china cabinet. (See wish list photo inspiration of the King Henry era French table!)

Update: Local free furniture available with rose carved wood design for time being. 

Outcome: We will eventually upgrade the table which sits a little lower than usual and find the right sized china cabinet for the room. 

Actual Cost:

• UHaul rental 2 hrs: $45
• Rose carved wooden table, chairs, buffet > Freecycle
• China sets & silverware & glasses (Grammy!) 
• 3 framed portraits (free!)
• Still to find: Tablecloth, new chair cover/cushion, 

Goal: Design a fun place to play, sleep, eat and lounge that isn’t the bedroom at 3am…which includes the lilac bedroom and the future catio on the upstairs back porch. 

Update: Setup 2 dry auto timed wifi feeders, an ikea cubby and the poopy palace along with a cat tree for 2 cats, and a super cute tiny-sized couch + rug set for kitties! 

Outcome: (winter indoor project)

Estimated Cost:

• Dry feeder #2 either $55 or $80 
• Cat Tree DIY = 2 baskets, 1 shelf, plywood+small carpet scrap and the wood
• Tiny couch (Ikea?) + tiny rug (source local)
• Ikea cubby setup (already own, just upgrade as a scratchpost, hammock & bed on top) 

Goal: Clean up improper painting to preserve bricks, replace damaged gutters, soffits and damaged woodwork. Gutter and soffit repair comes first because moisture. 

Update: Next schedule rental date of scissor lifter to get up to the 3rd floor. (Not started)

Outcome: 

Actual Cost:

• Scissor lift rental:
• Replacing cornice

Goal: Inspect all windows and prioritize repair needs. #1 window is in the den with water damage and not closing properly, full replacement surround. Then cracked glass or broken window weights.  

Update: Sourcing local glass and supplies.

Outcome: 

Actual Cost:

Goal: Replace corner planks & repaint/reseal. Reattach the left railing. Trim back ornamental tree and fix water damaged front beam. 

Update: (not started)

Outcome: 

Actual Cost: