Stoned

The masonry guys returned and went to work. It was a pleasure to watch them. They arrived at 7:00 am and worked until almost 7:00 pm. We congratulated them as the were leaving. The mortar will cure and is expected to lighten to a buff color. Even if it doesn't lighten much, I like it! They did a nice job around the mantel.

Mike was here today and said the floor tile people (Gabe) will be here tomorrow. He said their first step will be to apply a coat to the concrete floor which will help prevent hairline cracks in the concrete from propagating through the porcelain tile. The tile installation itself may not be finished until Thursday. We discussed which direction the tiles will run. These are 12"x 24" tiles. Mike said Gabe's recommendation, based on the components of our sunroom, is to run the long edge of the tile perpendicular to the line between the hot tub and the fireplace. He also said that, due to the excellent quality of the tiles, we could apply them with 1/2 overlap as opposed to the the 1/3 overlap suggested by the tile supply people. T was amendable to both these recommendations.

Mike also showed us his attempts to create a pattern for the south porch portico support (we are currently still using a 2"x 4"). His example was worth merit, but T gave him some further insights on what she wanted. The challenge is to be able to cut her vision out of a 16"x 4" beam. That is the largest beam available. Mike thought IT COULD WORK!

The painters were also here today applying the final satin coat to the exterior brown trim. Looks good.

A up close view of the new Red Maple.