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Small Cabin Forum / Member's Projects and Photos / 16x32 Gambrel roofed cabin in northern WI
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Brettny
Member
# Posted: 18 Jan 2022 07:16
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The convenience of a pellet stove strikes again. Are you sure the pellet stove is rated to work at below freezing temps? I know this may sound odd but even on the wall thermostats hit a low temp and wont turn the heat on.

Theres something to be said about the simplicity of a metal box you build a fire in...a wood stove.

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 18 Jan 2022 08:03
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Brettny I wondered the same thing, however i forgot to ask Comfortbilt that when i talked to them yesterday. I did make a point to tell them what the temps were and they didn't say anything like, that's to cold to operate the stove. Aside from the display, i'm not sure what other electrical components would really be impacted by temperature.

Yeah, i know it would be more simple and maybe someday i'll get there if i continue to experience issues with the pellet.

I do plan on installing at least 1 electric heater on the opposite end of the cabin to help get the place heated up.

travellerw
Member
# Posted: 18 Jan 2022 11:07
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Quoting: WILL1E
Aside from the display, i'm not sure what other electrical components would really be impacted by temperature.


I'm guessing there are relays somewhere in the electronics. Relays have to be speced for cold environments. Electrolytic capacitors are also heavily impacted by cold and are de-rated when cold. Its not a problem if the components were choose for those conditions (cars use both of those and operate down to -50C). Of course, those components cost more, so its a trade-off for manufacturers.

If you still experience issues after the motherboard replacement, then all is not lost. A simple 1500W space heater pointed at the electronics (not too close) for 10-15 min usually solves those problems.

gcrank1
Member
# Posted: 18 Jan 2022 11:26
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Lol
Wait! I have to heat my heater.....
We do what we must.....

BRADISH
Member
# Posted: 18 Jan 2022 11:53
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Willie - your posts are giving me premonitions to where I will be this fall!! I both like and dislike that...

Keep up the good work! Lots of pictures!

Redah
Member
# Posted: 22 Jan 2022 12:00
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Nice work Will1e!

Thanks for sharing.

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 7 Feb 2022 08:37
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2/5/2022 Update
Finally made it up this past weekend. After getting stuck several times in the snow trying to back the trailer in the driveway i drove it in straight only to get stuck a couple more times. Then when i finally made it all the way in i had the dilemma of not having a good way of unhitching the 14' trailer and moving it from out behind the truck. So a shovel, brute strength and about 30min later i was able to manually lift and move it out from behind the truck. Needless to say not having a functioning tractor and enough space to move around in the driveway needs to be solved before next winter!

After loosing a couple hours to that ordeal, i was able to get some insulation up and finally got some ceilings lights installed and wired up in one end of the cabin! Also got 2x4's installed between the rafters for additional bracing. Hopefully my next visit i can finish that, install the 2x4's between the rafter plates and get the plastic up and be done with darn scaffold for awhile!!




BRADISH
Member
# Posted: 7 Feb 2022 11:17
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Nice work..

There isn't much more frustrating that being stuck in the driveway in snow at the cabin when you have something to accomplish....

I know it has happened to me a time or two. Often the driveway has the deepest snow in the entire countryside, as it seems to be an anomaly of nature and weather that works together just to piss me off some days!

Glad you were able to push on through it!

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 8 Feb 2022 08:00
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Haha...yeah, that driveway has been a thorn in my side since the day i bought the place. Part to blame is my truck, it's a tank...1 ton diesel with tires that aren't meant for anything but the pavement. If i wasn't sinking every dime into the cabin i'd be throwing a lift on it and putting some better meats on it...but that's a dream for now....at least my shovel skills are getting really honed in

Brettny
Member
# Posted: 8 Feb 2022 09:25
Reply 


A set of real tire chains can make any HT tire feel like a snow/mud tire. Helped my 1ton a whole lot when I couldn't afford tires for it.

Be grateful for your acess..right now ours dosnt exist. We would have to walk in, up hill.

travellerw
Member
# Posted: 8 Feb 2022 10:03
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Its hard to tell from the pics, but is that rockwool, or just dark coloured glass insulation?

BRADISH
Member
# Posted: 8 Feb 2022 11:20
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Quoting: Brettny
A set of real tire chains can make any HT tire feel like a snow/mud tire. Helped my 1ton a whole lot when I couldn't afford tires for it.


This is a great point actually. I used to have access issues with the old logging road to my cabin in the winter time, despite its occasional maintenance by the county.

One set of V-Bar Tire chains, and all those trouble (and anxiety) have melted away. Got them locally for $160 for the set.

Had I known then what I know now, I would have paid double for them! In a way I guess I did, because I bought another set - but I have yet to need more than one pair on the front. Even in 14" of snow they just creep right along (provided I PUT THEM ON when I need too.) Learned the hard way to just put them on when in doubt - don't wait until its proven that you need them.

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 8 Feb 2022 12:31
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Quoting: travellerw
Its hard to tell from the pics, but is that rockwool, or just dark coloured glass insulation?

Glass. Couldn't find wool locally in the size i needed.

Nate R
Member
# Posted: 8 Feb 2022 13:12
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Nice progress, awesome to get a couple lights in, too! I've been using floor lamps, and getting tired of that already.

Finally heading back up myself this coming weekend, and after nearly a 2 month break from working on the cabin, back at it!

Brettny
Member
# Posted: 8 Feb 2022 14:40
Reply 


Quoting: BRADISH
This is a great point actually. I used to have access issues with the old logging road to my cabin in the winter time, despite its occasional maintenance by the county.

One set of V-Bar Tire chains, and all those trouble (and anxiety) have melted away. Got them locally for $160 for the set.

Had I known then what I know now, I would have paid double for them! In a way I guess I did, because I bought another set - but I have yet to need more than one pair on the front. Even in 14" of snow they just creep right along (provided I PUT THEM ON when I need too.) Learned the hard way to just put them on when in doubt - don't wait until its proven that you need them.

I had originally bought them for another vehicle but have since been through 3 vehicles and wont sell them if they even remotely fit my current one. I had them on a 1ton DRW plow truck with HT tires and could plow 2ft of wet snow.

travellerw
Member
# Posted: 8 Feb 2022 16:32
Reply 


Quoting: WILL1E
Glass. Couldn't find wool locally in the size i needed.


I thought so, but had never seen glass in that colour (either pink or yellow up here).

I debated about rockwool, but my research showed it just wasn't worth it. Its main advantage is it doesn't loose performance if wet (not an issue if proper vapour barrier). It also claims to suffer less from R value drift due to settling, but I couldn't find hard data, just marketing claims.

I just couldn't justify twice the cost for a product that performs %100 the same in R value, even if it is easier to install.

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 9 Feb 2022 07:48
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Yeah it's substantially cheaper here compared to wool. However, i did enjoy installing the wool (around pellet stove) far more than the glass. I'm still on the fence for what i'll use for the rest of the main floor walls...bank account might dictate that!

Aklogcabin
Member
# Posted: 9 Feb 2022 10:34
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Hey WILL1E , I think you're place looks great. You are the only one that can see your vision for what you want. And I'm sure you will enjoy enjoy.
You also can stand back n say I built that. Maybe had to learn a few things, we all do. And I believe you made good decisions on your purchases. And now have a place for your family to enjoy the cabin life. And even with enough room
You're on the downhill side of things as you finish up. Stay positive n don't let learning become an obstacle.
Just like you've been doing.

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 22 Feb 2022 09:43
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2/18/22 Update

Made it up this weekend to wrap up the ceiling for now. Thank god i'll be done on that darn scaffolding for awhile





Shot from across the pond:


Next on the list will be to frame out what will eventually be the area for the staircase with the closet underneath it. For now it will simply be 2 walls where i'll have the ladder as the staircase will come post inspection. One of those walls will also be the kitchen wall. After that i need to get the wall up between the bedroom and bathroom. Then some electrical work in the bed, bath and for the kitchen wall and then it'll be time for first inspection.

BRADISH
Member
# Posted: 22 Feb 2022 12:04
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Coming along nicely man! I'm sure it's a relief to be done with the high work for awhile! Framing is always more fun. Looking forward to future progress.

Nate R
Member
# Posted: 23 Feb 2022 09:12
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Looking good! Getting closer to that inspection!

TheRealPapaK
Member
# Posted: 23 Feb 2022 15:42
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Hi W1LL1E, what's your snow load for your area? Did you engineer this yourself? The project looks great.

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 24 Feb 2022 08:09
Reply 


Thanks!

Yes, i did "engineer" it myself. For my area the snow load is 40 PSF.

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 7 Mar 2022 08:44
Reply 


3/4/2022 UPDATE

Went up for another weekend of work and made some good progress. I feel so much more productive when i do work that doesn't involve a scaffold!

Got the hallway by the bedroom built on Friday night. This also acts as the landing for the loft above.


Saturday i managed to get the wall built that will be what the kitchen cabinets/appliances will go along. It also creates the area behind it for the stairs/ladder to get up to the loft. Also built up the wall at the top of the stairs. This one will be a solid wall whereas the rest of the railing for the loft will be something more open...not sure what yet. Also built a countertop along the wall where the cabinets will be since i had to take down my "workbench" in the bedroom area so i could work in there. Gives me a good feel what cabinets will feel like in that space and help the wife visualize that area when she decides to come see the cabin.


Also got the wall up in the bedroom to separate it from the bathroom. This allowed me to run all the outlets and lights for the bedroom. Also installed the 240V wall heater which will help get the place up to temp on those cold weekend visits.



Had an ugly rain and ice storm overnight, but made for a beautiful sunrise photo!


I spent Sunday cleaning up the place and organizing. Also decided to knock out the code spec'd ladder for the loft. Turned out pretty nice and the angle, tread depth and riser height feels good....at least until i build stairs post final inspection.




If anyone wants to see a walking tour of inside, the video is here.

And of course i couldn't leave without the driveway rearing it's ugly head once again and reminding me who's the boss. Ended up getting stuck 3 times in 100yds and finally had to call the neighbor to bring his tractor down and yank me out. The tires on this truck are useless in snow and ice. I cannot wait until i can part ways with this truck...spring can't come soon enough so i can get the camper out and then sell the truck!


Steve_S
Member
# Posted: 7 Mar 2022 09:37
Reply 


Lookin Good ! Every Step forward adds on to the feeling of progress.

I discovered a new hobby this spring, how to plant a 4x4 to the frame rails and how to get it out... This is a hobby I have no interest in continuing ! Even with knobby Winter Tires (not A/S or M/S, real Winter Tires) you can still get in too deep.

On the Kitchen Layup... Get the one who will spend the time in there to design the layout & setup. I suggest making a temp Counter Height work bench @ 34" Height which you can move in the kitchen space for gauging scale. It is really easy to make a Good workable kitchen but also just as easy to make a clumsy & awkward one. It is all about the working Triangle and making use of it the best way possible. Know your appliance sizes (even make cardboard templates to layout on the floor for stove, fridge etc).

Kitchen's are tricky and a LOT of people under-plan them or just don't get it (you have to "the cook" to get it).

FYI: I built all of my Cabinetry and my own millwork. For basic Kitchen Cabinet Plans (Carcass design etc) came from the link below. While I used 3/4" Purebond Plywood for the carcass shells, I used 7/8" Rough Cut White Pine (Planned one side (inside) smooth) for the doors with everything triple coated using Polyurathane.
https://www.ana-white.com/search?search_api_fulltext=kitchen+momplex

This is also a Good Kitchen Cabinet Build article and recently updated too. Bit different than above.
https://extremehowto.com/cabinet-building-basics-for-diyers/

A Suggestion for the upper cupboards.
- Take them to the ceiling and don't waste the space
- Make sure you planned for the Range Vent setup.
* Like the bathroom fan vent, make sure the 3" or 4" pipe is INSULATED otherwise condensation will occur on the outside of the pipes as well as inside them. These also act as Heat Sinks during winter which must be avoided. Not something that can be retrofit easily after you've face-palmed. (for having everything closed up in a wall or bulkhead and realizing the "oops").

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 7 Mar 2022 10:08
Reply 


Thanks Steve!

The unfortunate part is the driveway wasn't deep, maybe 2-3". But backing out backwards + that ice storm caused my truck to slide towards the side and into the deep stuff. Getting unstuck used to be fun in my jeep days, but when your just looking to get home after a weekend of work not so much!

Thanks for the kitchen tips. I actually just wrapped up our kitchen remodel at home about a year and a half or so ago. Same as you, did my own design, built all the cabinets and doors myself, etc.




Fortunately the cabin kitchen will be far simpler, everything will be on that one ~10' wall i just built. Depending how things feel once all the furniture is in there, we might add a moveable island of some sorts if needed.

Steve_S
Member
# Posted: 7 Mar 2022 11:29
Reply 


NICE Kitchen above ! Nice Work Triangle too, that's a 3 stepper meaning takes 3 steps to reach the important work points.

Premade particle/mdf/Melamine cabinets are such crap now IMO it devalues the home.

A Floating island on wheels does make a heap of sense in a smaller kitchen and if you can incorporate a pull out butcher block and a few things like that it can be a huge saver. Soft Non-Marring wheels that can be locked... call it Lessons Learned & Shared... damn things moving when working on em = NOT Fun !

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 21 Mar 2022 08:34
Reply 


3/18/2022 Update

Wife made her first visit to the cabin this weekend and was very happy with everything thus far! Didn't do a whole lot of project work, but was able to get the last two windows installed in the gable ends. It's crazy the difference those 2 windows make to the inside of the cabin!





Also ran wire and installed a security light...not sure i'm sold on it but it'll do for now. Only a few small wiring projects to wrap up before i schedule the BI first visit.

BRADISH
Member
# Posted: 21 Mar 2022 11:40
Reply 


Looks nice Willie - great progress for there still being snow on the ground! Watching your build is keeping me sane while I wait for our snow to melt here..

WILL1E
Moderator
# Posted: 21 Mar 2022 12:56
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Where you at?

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