Home Renovation Update

Blog Owner • Jul 11, 2017

Ooh boy! What a crunch we have been on to get everything done in this house the past couple months! I know its been a while since I have updated, the guys both took the Winter off and our project hit a stand still... at least for a little bit. Things have been moving really quickly as of lately, a lot of the remaining work has been completed by contractors. With my persistence, they have remained (ALMOST completely) on schedule.

Both Paul and Stan worked hard to get the plumbing in the house and they sure did a great job! Once the plumbing was completed, it was time for the electrical to be installed. We decided to hire an electrician and we are so glad we did. Ray Gendron of Power Solutions came out to the house and did an outstanding job bringing our house up to code and installing safe, updated wires throughout. Turns out, wires are not supposed to be connected to the top of the house. So, under the ground they went. With the help of the Heath brothers, we had a trench not only dug to the house for our electric, but also from the house to the barn so it will have electric.

Mr. Gendron, hard at work on our electrical.

While Ray was hard at work installing our electrical, Paul and Stan worked to get our French and sliding doors installed. What a difference the doors made! So much light coming in, it looks so much larger.

Once all the electrical wires were installed, our house was ready for heating and AC. We decided to get an air handler that distributes AC and heat for the upstairs and downstairs, while also maintaining the humidity levels. Roy Refrigeration was wonderful in finding the best solution to run all of their ducting. Having an exposed ceiling down stairs limits the range of where they can run their ducting.

Last, but most certainly not least, we now have spray foam insulation. What a mess that stuff can make, but Buddy and his crew from New England Spray Foam did a wonderful job making sure all of our posts and beams were covered well. They made quick work of our home, spending more time wrapping everything in plastic than they did actually spraying.

Buddy from New England Spray Foam is pictured below.

As our house continues to come together, I will continue to keep you updated. The stair installation should be beginning very soon. Dry wall is in progress(YAY,) kitchen is going to be put together soon and all the other home "puzzle pieces" are coming together. Thank you to everyone who has supported, enjoyed, shared and loved this project as much as I have. We are in the final stages of a project that seemed like it was never going to end and I am beyond excited to be going home soon!

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Trace Elements Photography Blog

Promoting A Greener World With a Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Wedding Commitment

By Dawn Crane • 02 Nov, 2021

It is said that if we don't start making sacrifices to live our lives in a more sustainable manor, that we are dooming the future generations to the effects of global warming. We are already seeing the dangerous foot prints that our convenient lives are leaving in our wake. Larger storms, flooding, droughts, earth quakes, tsunamis and so many other powerful environmental catastrophes... all in an attempt for mother nature to warn us that we are tipping scales and change NEEDS to happen before it's too late. It really is a lot to take in and it's incredibly scary but change starts with compromises and influences that begin in the home and grows into a worldwide strive to do better. If you haven't been able to tell as of now, this is something that weighs heavily on me and I plan on making a difference. Starting with my business, I hope to simply encourage my clients to consider using options for their wedding day that carry a positive impact on this beautiful world we live in. There are so many different aspects to a wedding that even going eco-friendly in one area will make a difference. There are so many different ways you can help lessen your impact and I'm sure I'll add to this list as I learn more and as the years go on, but here are some things you can consider to "green-up" your wedding. Consider finding a second hand dress and/or tux rentals. Alterations are far cheaper and we are avoiding importing/creating new materials. Rent plates, silverware, glasses, etc.. There are several local companies that rent tables and all. Consider more plant based or vegetarian options for your food options. Livestock is one of the number one contributors to global warming not only through the methane released, but also because valuable forests and woodlands are cleared to make room for our domestic animals. Instead of having any florals imported, consider locally grown and sourced floral arrangements. Party favors can be used to encourage spreading eco friendly AND outdoor ideas. I've seen small trees in biodegradable containers, packages of flower seeds, bird seed, locally sourced products, etc.. When considering things like bridal robes, bags, gifts, etc., finding products made in the USA will lessen our importing weight and support our economy and growth. Instead of using graffiti, drying out flower petals or leaves and hole punching or shredding provides a great alternative with no impact or garbage to pick up. Center pieces and arbors can be bought second hand at a great rate, search around before investing in "one-time-use" products. I'm sure there are so many ideas that can be added to this list and if you have any, PLEASE let me know and I'll include it. It's so important that we start making life changes to protect this beautiful world we call home. Anything you are willing to contribute will be so appreciated by not only me, but by the earth itself. Thank you.

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