Board and Batten

Today was a big day around Pauline Manor – the second story is finally getting properly “dressed.” As much as I would have loved to find some way to preserve the original exterior that we found under the hardieboard we had to remove a few months ago, that wasn't possible. (Not to mention we have practically been paying someone's salary at FPL having zero insulation during the hottest summer on record )

Mike and I chose a gorgeous deep gray board and batten which looks amazing under the jet-black soffit & fascia and black roof. Once this is completed, the second story will be officially DONE done.

The next major project will be bricking the first story – but unfortunately, that also entails replacing the wrap-around porch. And before we can even do THAT we have to remove all of the makeshift stucco/faux brick stuff they were putting up (but obviously never completed… and let it dry… unfinished )

BUT… once we get all of that off and get the wood all dried in and replace any wood that we need to, we can take up the porch, have the guys come and lay the apron and brick, and then replace the wrap around porch with a nice arm rail. THEN the exterior will be done and the house will be secure and ready to face another 115 years.

Our goal is to do that within the next 12 months so… please light a candle for us that’s the biggest project of this whole ordeal.

One thing we will NOT be touching are the perfect cement steps that go up to the porch at the front of the house that have been rumored to be where the first graduating class of Tate High School was photographed along with numerous weddings, funerals, and other local gatherings. Plus they are one of my most favorite things about the home and where I have spent time almost every single day watching the puppies play in the yard just soaking it all in.

It’s kinda funny how excited we get over things like board and batten these days, but every little piece that gets put into place in this massive puzzle of ours just brings us one step closer to seeing our dreams for this house being a reality.