Over the last 2 days, I helped Don out in his barn again. This time, the work was mostly cutting and hanging drywall. I learned how to precisely cut drywall, using a utility knife. I was also able to cut out a piece of drywall for the ceiling, which involved cutting a hole for a can light. I think that was probably the most impressive thing I did all day, if I do say so myself...

I learned something important yesterday - you have to respect high-torque drill motors. I was using a hole saw to cut an opening for a moisture vent from the bathroom, and let me tell you, when the bit suddenly stops spinning (bites), your wrists don't like it at all. If Don hadn't warned me and I didn't know any better, I would have snapped my wrist. 

Over these two days, I learned a lot about drywall. But most importantly, I learned that I enjoy the work. I like to cut the drywall (and, occasionally, attempt to hang it). I'm sure it's easier and harder depending on the job situation, but I liked it. And if you like to do something, you'll eventually be really good at it, right?

Bathrooms are hard work

Yesterday, I worked again with my friend Don, at his house. He is converting the second story of his barn into a small rental home. I helped him get started on the bathroom.

First, we made cuts in the concrete where pipes need to be installed for a toilet, a hot water tank, sink, etc.


Next, framing went up around it. One of Don's good carpenter friends framed the room while he, Don or I cut studs to the right size so he could put them up. Here is a photo of the framed bathroom, looking at it from behind the back wall (You can sorta see the cuts we made there in the floor, where the toilet and stuff are going to be).


Next was the most difficult - breaking up the concrete. Don and I would take turns with his jackhammer, while whoever wasn't using it was shoveling it out. I must admit, this was kind of fun, for about 2 minutes. Here is a picture of most of the concrete we broke up, all ready for the pipes to be laid in.