SE Ohio
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# Posted: 15 Feb 2011 04:03pm
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There was a slight warming trend here in the Ohio tundra, so I took one of my kids down to the off-grid non-plumbed cabin for a weekend project.
The cabin is in the Ohio dampforest (as opposed to rainforest), as it never quite dries up really well due to the heavy shade. As a result, our cabin entry "bridge" is mossy and slippery, and subject to rot. Also, as a result of adding a storm door that opens out, one must "back up" in order to stay on the raised bridge when entering the cabin, or else fall several feet (we're on a hillside). Time for an improvement.
The improvement- Widening the bridge, and using composite lumber that won't soak up water or rot so easily.
The original cabin builder used some really nice "twisty" nails in this construction. Not a one had backed out the slightest bit! As a result, I had to dig into the pressure treated wood using a prybar and a hammer to get at the nail heads. It was a bit of work. The wood was saturated with water and "squished" as I pried out the nails, reaffirming the choice of composite lumber.
The tools: Cheap hand saw from Harbor Freight, three charged cordless drills, stainless steell square drive screws, a good sharp pencil, and ... where did that beer come from?
The weather held up, and I managed to get it all done despite stoking the stove, etc. My son and I managed to get in a hike while we were there, and overall it was a good weekend. Next time we'll install the safety rail and maybe a permanent installation of the solar panel.
Cabin_entry_bridge.J.jpg
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Entry_bridge_tools.J.jpg
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