Thursday, February 19, 2009

Should I Be Worried?

OK, so here I am driving down our country lane after work and I spot this large object on our driveway.
Click on picture for larger image.


So here is the story....Sue noticed some water running down some walls in the living room while I was away on business in California. She cleaned up the water right away some there would not be further damage.
When I called our insurance company they said they would send someone out right away. They did and I am impressed with their caring attitude to get the house fixed and us happy. Now here is my plug for our insurance company. So far, State Farm rocks!

The adjuster and Bruce Bauer from Bauer Restoration in Faribault, MN dug in and assessed the problem.

I can't say enough about Bruce and Kirk. They have bent over backwards to fix the problems. If they keep up the good work you will hear our praise. If they stumble, you will hear that as well. I do appreciate these two fine gentlemen.

Back to the story.

The builder failed to use the proper insulation in the cathedral ceiling and heat was escaping from the ceiling, hitting the cold roof decking causing condensation. That is where the water was coming from.

Now for the shocking pictures...most of the ceiling and walls have been removed. Now they will pull the rest of the wall insulation and dry everything out.
Don't be alarmed...the dark is just water....not the "M" word....





Right now most of the walls are out, the ceiling is out, the fireplace, hearth and rock backdrop are out. The carpet and pad....gone. Light fixtures and ceiling fans....gone!

We will be shopping soon for hearth tiles and new stone for the walls behind the fireplace.

Once everything is dried out, the workers will install a closed cell insulation that is three times more energy efficient than standard fiberglass insulation. That will keep the ceiling warm and the roof cold meaning no more condensation or ice dams. Another HUGE benefit....lower energy costs.

Stay with me on this one folks. I will keep you informed on progress in the very next edition of "Now What Are They Doing?"

It is a big mess now, but we know it will look really good when the craftsmen are finished.

2 comments:

Scott said...

Having spent some time in the building restoration business, I am suprised that you are not living in a hotel while repairs are made. Ensure that they treat for mold anyway. Get everything (tile seleciton, stone selection, drywall finish, paint choice, carpet) in writing, signed by your contractor and agent. I'm glad it has gone well for you so far and I hope it ends on a happy note - so many restorations do not.

Bob said...

Hi Scott: So far no mold found. Just wet sheeting from condensation from the warm inside meeting the cold outside. The high R-value of the closed cell insulation should stop that. The guys have the area well sealed off so we can stay in our finished basement during the process. I will keep you informed and ask questions of you now knowing you have experience with this. Thanks, Bob