Will they or won’t they…………..?

Editorial Change

Hello – it’s Freddie here!

Due to a temporary lull in the new build project, there was no intention by SWhoMBO to post a blog entry in March. However, after much shameless demonstration of affection on my part, I eventually persuaded her to ‘take a chance on me’ to inform and entertain our readers this month .

So, here is my cat’s eye view on the ‘state of the union’ at Hazels.

Roof

The main progress has been with the roof and we are delighted to report that that Will, Barry and Golf completed Phase 1 of the tiling in the early weeks of the month.  My senior roving reporter (Moses) was sent out on an important fact-finding mission to check that all was in order.

 

 

 

Planning application

Surely, Mr Rod and SWhoMBO cannot be serious?

After all those months, if not years, of battling to get planning permission for their dream house, it seems that it is not over yet. Another planning application has been submitted for two extensions (under the 40% rule, although only 37% in this case).

Now we realise that this is where the the two ‘ends’ will slot in.  Our staff have taken a bit of a punt in that the foundations were completed at the same time as those for the man house.

Now perhaps you can see why I was laughing so much?

 

Dowels

We felines were certainly amazed to discover that no screw or nail features in the interior oak frame construction. Instead, wooden dowel rods have been used, like this example shown below.

We understand that wooden dowels are the strongest method for creating this type of joint. (Apparently, the dowel joint in solid oak failed at an astonishing average of 650 pounds pressure.)

 

Interior Design

Despite Mr Rod’s protestations that he only wants to consider exterior house requirements at the moment, it appears that the season to argue about interior design is now well and truly upon us.

Many would pity us because our ears have been assailed so cruelly by increasingly exhausting ‘exchanges of view’ concerning wood burning stoves, kitchen units, shower enclosures, lighting and so many other items.

Frankly, we are underwhelmed about the majority of their priorities but we do need to exert some influence in at least a few important areas in the new house:

 

 

Post Boxes

You will probably recall our reporting on our daily ritual of observing the position of the flag on the American-style post box. We think Kevin the Postie derives almost as much pleasure as we do from this.

 

Bonners Party Barn

We can never resist taking the long walk down the drive to find out what is happening to the barn being renovated by our near neighbours.

I do hope you have enjoyed my guest-editorship? The old guard will be returning in April.

Next Month:

1. The Oakwrights fixed glazing team returns.
2. Planning Officer makes site visit.
3. Mr Rod and SWHoMBO turn their minds to the detail for staircase, internal doors and opening windows.
4. John Bercat interviews Jakob Rees Moggie