Asbestos

Over the past few days Almora has been undertaking some construction work! Nothing in the way of major alterations as our plans have yet to be finalised. However, a handyman earlier in the week has done some touch-up jobs to the fence, doors, locks, etc.

But the biggest job happening right now is asbestos removal! Some samples from the walls tested positive for asbestos. So, the main rooms of the heritage part of the house, and the bathroom in the extension are currently in the removal process.

The house has been taped with "DANGER ASBESTOS" to prevent unauthorised persons apporaching the site in its hazardous state. The professionals must suit up and execute safe practices to remove the affected plaster in a manner that doesn't threaten exposed lungs.

This process has been going on since Thursday this past week. It is supposed to be finished next week, then we are getting a quote for re-stumping the house. I've aluded to this before - most of the house is on a lean. The piles have sunk to the ground, and this is a common attribute of old houses in the area because of the earth they are built on.

Due to the asbestos being removed at this stage as opposed to when the proper renovation begins, new jobs have come forward to possibly complete now. Remember, we plan to rent the house out whilst plans are made and council permission is obtained. The restumping is one potential job becuase the walls will need to be redone (ideally in level condition) after asbestos. Others include rewiring the house so that the electricity conforms to modern standards. The walls will be lined with sound-proofing insulation. And because of the current no-walls-situation, some features like skirting, architraves and ceiling roses may need to be replicated and replaced.

We haven't been inside so we don't know the full extent of everything just yet. But I know there's lots of painting coming my way! Enjoy your week.

xo