Exterior coating is going on

 The men who are placing the outer EIF (stucco-like material) have started their work.  They have already put down a grey base coat over much of the building and will follow this with a brick red (red clay) textured surface.  They also have carved out foam details for the window fenestrations.

 Michelle took this while standing on the roof.  She climbed up the scaffolding to get this shot.  She's very proud of this.

On an interesting note, a local construction blogger / sustainability expert published a post about our house.  His block is called "Art of Construction" and his post is from January 23rd.  It can be found here: http://riles-files.blogspot.com/2013/01/passive-house.html

January 18 progress

 Ralph checking out the roof

 Ella's bedroom

Jan 24

 Our future kitchen

electrical wiring all done by Feb 3

Over the last week the builders rented a crane and hoisted the roof panels onto the southern half of the roof.

In order to lift them safely, they drilled a hold through the middle of each panel and then fastened a chain through the middle of each panel.  Each one weighs over 500 pounds!

 Above is a picture of a panel being hoisted onto the roof.

Below is a picture of the roof in the main living area.  The electrical runs and wiring are already incorporated into the structural insulated panels by the manufacturer.

It was a learning experience for the crew since it was the first time they had installed SIP roofing.  The SIP manufacture, Enercept - based in South Dakota, sent their local consultant to assist with the process.