All of the photos are linked to larger images for your viewing pleasure.

We're back on the job full time now although since we're doing the work ourselves, we're not moving as fast as a professional job. After the stem walls were poured, we placed anchor bolts in the wet concrete and waited for it to set. We then put pressure treated plates on top of the stem walls. Holes were drilled for the anchor bolts which we used to attach the plates to the stem walls. Orange caps cover the anchor bolts to protect the workers.

Here is a close up of the pressure treated wood plate bolted to the stem wall. Before we bolted the plates down, we used the transit once more to make sure they were level and at the correct height. Then the plates were bolted into place and expanding foam was sprayed in the joint between the stem wall and the plate. This will reduce infiltration at this joint.

The next task was putting down the girders. These are the main support for the floor system. These are Microlams which are engineered wood and are very true and strong. Since all of our plans are stamped by a structural engineer, these girders have been sized for the loads they will carry.

This is a close-up of the girder being supported by a post. Below the post is a spot footing which is reinforced concrete. There are several spot footings within the perimeter of the house where loads are carried down. Metal joist hangers attach the girders to the stem walls and to the posts. Once completed, the foundation will be inspected by county officials to make sure it meets code.

Timberstrand rim joists are attached to the top of the stem walls. These are also engineered wood and are put in place so the TJI floor joists can be attached to them.

Andy (right) has decided to join his brother, Steven, as a full time laborer on this project. That's great news! Steven is still job foreman but he now has a partner and they will be learning the trade together.

Andy is nailing the TJI floor joists to the rim joists at 16" on center. These engineered I-beams are very strong and make a sturdy and quiet floor. The blue pipe is the water and sewer rough-in that was run under the garage floor, which will be a slab.