This week has been full of progress and special moments as we continue to bring the “8th Sister” to life.
On Monday, we had the honor of welcoming UMass Amherst Chancellor Javier Reyes, Vice Provost Shane Conklin, and CNS Dean Michael Fox to our build site. Their visit was an exciting break from our morning routine. It was just the three of them and us! The schedule was for them to arrive first thing in the AM and stay for less than a half hour; however, we were all so engaged that almost an hour went by showing them the project and answering questions related to not just the Build itself but to the importance of the sustainable building materials we are researching/using (Straw Bale & Wood Fiber Insulation) and the impact of our program on the affordable housing crisis in Holyoke, MA.
After our visitors departed, we completed the Pella Window installation and then moved onto the Pella Door installation.
On the exterior, once all windows and doors were in place, students began working on fabricating window and door casings, installing strapping as attachment for the siding, installing window and door flashing, installing and flashing the rear deck and front porch ledger boards, framing overhangs on the eave ends, and installing fascia on all sides in preparation for the drip edge and rolled roofing.
On the interior, electrical continued, final truss insulation infills were completed, and “stays” to hold the TimberHP Batts in place were installed along the trusses insuring the support for the 9″ of Wood Fiber insulation that will be installed later next week.
On Thursday, we had a surprise gourmet lunch sent over by the Chancellor! While lunch is always enjoyed as a chance to take a break from the morning’s work and spend time with the team all together —- this was definitely the best DesignBuild lunch ever!
To cap off this week we had our annual 50% Completion Celebration (delayed a week because of last weeks heat wave) at Professor’s Fiocchi’s house. We wrapped up work at 3:00 PM, got cleaned up, and joined our team, faculty, friends, and parents for a festive gathering with plenty of good food —- and ice cream 8 flavors and toppings!
It was a wonderful way to reflect on our achievements and recharge for the work ahead!