Why we are renovating and not restoring

We took Friday night off to recuperate, but we were at it early on Saturday. Three heating and air vendors were scheduled to come out and give us bids to replace the furnace and a/c and run ductwork to the upstairs bedrooms. The previous owner had a window unit installed up there. Unfortunately only two of the three actually bothered to show up. We would like to install a heat pump as opposed to a traditional furnace. Our electrical company and many others offers a reduced rate on electricity during the winter months if you install a heat pump. Heat pumps will heat your home using electricity to about 30 degrees, after which the backup furnace (gas or electric) will kick on.


While they were poking around I finished ripping the old linoleum up. Lots of staples are left in the sub-floor, not to mention the glue residue, and they don't come up very easily, but if we want the floor to be level and firm, they really should come out.



After that I pulled off the trim and around the windows and doors in the soon to be kitchen and then ripped the paneling down to reveal... Lime green painted plaster. The black stripes were under the joints of the paneling we think to prevent the lime green from showing through any gaps. While I was tearing down the paneling I cracked the sill on the window. Oops...


The Little Pink Hammer® couldn't take the heavy duty demolition work. It was "made in China" so maybe I shouldn't be surprised. If you are wondering, Rachel received a Little Pink Toolbox® for Christmas. This was our only hammer until it broke, then I got to go buy a new one!


While I did all this Rachel prepped for painting which we hope to begin soon. Unfortunately we discovered there is wallpaper in both the Living and Dining room under the paint. Ick...

Rachel's Mom and Dad were out on Saturday as well to check the place out. I think they approve, but probably think we have taken on more than we can handle. So far our spirits and confidence remain high, though we are constantly thinking about the budget. A heat pump is more expensive than a traditional furnace, so we may have to squeeze some place else to make up for it.