Jacob, the problem with all the tarpaulin sheets is that the roof is already soaking wet and holding plenty of water, and now you've covered most of it in tarpaulin but what you haven't realised is it's just making the roof more wet as the moisture content within the roof will rise as it will within the timbers within your walls etc. The only chance you are going to have at tackling the moisture problems is to strip away the roofing that's there now. I know you are trying hard to save as much of the building as possible but you are actually creating way more problems than you are managing to fix. This is showing already as you have mentioned in this video you have still got issues with the moldy walls etc. You have made a good start by removing the ivy on the outside walls and the tree's and shrubs that were up against the building but until you remove the roof your fighting a losing battle 🤔🧐🫣. Eventually you will spend more money than you need to because you're going at it the wrong way!!!
Hey Jacob, I Would love to help you guys with the roof. I worked for a year as a thatch roofer in the Netherlands and would love to also learn it the English traditional way. Also I restore 17th and 18th century antiques so I can show you how to keep wood in good condition. And you have to get the roof done as soon as possible. This is very important to preserve the timber frame. Also I have a dog that is a bit like Muddy. So I am very amused by your videos! Honoustly you need help from practical people with expertise who don't ask a sh*t load of money. Geeting from Daniel from The Netherlands.
Mate, we bought a 120 year old house about 2 years ago. Needed a new roof. Went through exact the same thing with water leaking in, lights shorting out during a rainstorm and waking up at 03.00 in the morning because there’s water dripping on my head. Once that roof is up and you’re warm, you’ll be in a different world all together. Keep it up 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
The old builders around here always say "if you don't have a roof you don't have a building." Barns hundreds of years old will stand forever (unpainted, ignored) if the roof is kept watertight. If it isn't the whole thing can simply collapse within a few years. Getting the roof fixed will change everything.
Darling Mr. Harrell, you've complained about being cold all throughout this vid. Yet your head is bare! A wool cap or hat will make a world of difference in your warmth and mood. Best wishes!
TBH Jacob, I would probably take all the plaster off the way and let the house breathe a little, Plus you dont know how bad the mold got behind the 'visible' plaster. The house will live longer for the efforts im sure !
Jacob if people never dreamed we’d still be in the Stone Age! Enjoy your journey all the ups and downs. You and Amber will save this beautiful 500 year old cottage for another 500 years! And Muddy and his log kept me smiling 😋 Thanks for taking us along on your adventure from here in the States 🥰🥰
My favorite part of your videos is your dog, Muddy. We’ve had 6 English Springer Spaniels and our second had the same obsession with sticks as Muddy. We cleared about an acre of woods to build a vacation home and our Susie was in heaven hauling branches out of the brush piles we stacked. Muddy makes me laugh with each new piece of wood.
It’s called a “labor of love” for a reason. Good luck and God speed. There are those of us who love the fact that you’re restoring this piece of history.
New tarps for the roof are a must . Even if they're cheap , they'll last long enough to keep the water out 'til the roof gets done . Until you keep the water out , you'll keep getting mold . Another suggestion . When removing your clothes at the end of the day , keep the mask on until you've taken EVERYTHING else off . The mold spores will get onto and into your clothes , and pulling the mask off first and then disturbing anything on your clothes means you're breathing it in .
How can you not smile when Maddy is such a ray of sunshine, head cocked to the side, blissfully unaware of... well, everything but a stick. Thank you for sharing your reno journey with the world. Best wishes from Canada.
Hope your not planning on putting Carpet down as Maddy will constantly track mud and debris into the house .. and probably lean up against the walls , making them dirty as well . 😮
@@ianchisholm9260 You're right, but luckily they're already in the process of selling their current home, so Maddy probably learned his inside manners in that house.
Just an idea but could you remove the thatch and install roofing membrane to keep the water out at least? I'm sure that would buy you sometime to get a thatcher organised.
Most of us are thinking If I were younger I would be right where you are!. Letting the old girl know she is in safe hands finally! With reno it always requires you take more out before you start back in.
I have definitely had that thought when watching this channel. I would absolutely love to live in a pretty cottage in the Cotswolds. As an Aussie who spent a month living there in 2019, I just fell in love with this beautiful historic area. Does anybody know what part of the Cotswolds this cottage is in?
Jacob, you have made great headway on the house for sure. All this stress and hassle will seem like a mild nuisance when you're done. Keep it up! Love Muddy!!!!
I’m 64 years old and live in the US . 40 years ago we bought a house that hadn’t been lived in for 20 years. We took it down to frame and replaced everything but the solid wood doors and all baseboards and door frames and the beautiful stair railings. It took us 9 months with help from family and friends.
As someone who has serially bought derelict houses, I love this content. It is all worth it! On a side note, in possible defense of the unsatisfactory work you hired out, my husband is a builder and general contractor. If people want to be their own GC's but can't be on the job site at all times, subcontractors sometimes have to use their judgment because the decision maker (the homeowner and de facto GC) isn't there to talk to when things come up. If the subs screw up, my husband, as the GC, is responsible for making things right; that's why he gets a percentage to manage the job. I'm not at all saying what they did is acceptable, just that it's a risk you take on a large DIY project when you can't be there 100 percent of the time and aren't paying someone to be there on your behalf. (Totally understandable; it's just one more added cost!) On a lighter note, one summer in our new-to-us very old house, we had to put a bowl to catch rain ON OUR BED in our ground-floor bedroom of a 2-story fixer-upper! We ended up, eventually, with a lovely home, and lots of good stories. You'll get there!
I adore your channel, Jacob! Your exuberant personality rings out, just as strongly as Amber’s pragmatic sensibility grounds your quest. Muddy is the perfect mad component, and all taken together you will beat this all back and create a thing of such beauty!
Heating and proper mold treatment is such a massive win for this house, congratulations! One lesson that life never fails to remind me is that progress is possible, but it won't be on your timeline. Everything will take longer than you expect/want it to, but that's OKAY. Progress is progress!
You are doing the best you can with what is available. Getting the heat pump is a great idea. At least warming things from the inside makes an easier place to work. Hope you can get the roof done soon. Things will feel like you aren't have to do the same things over again that you have already done. 👍🏼 P.S. I Love Your Dog.🤗💕💕💕
The house suits the three of you so perfectly. I wish there was more help available for neglected old buildings. I love how much you love and care for the cottage. Agree with the others that the roof has to be properly sorted first and there's no point doing any work inside until it is. Brilliant work outside. Keep the cups of tea flowing ❤
Sadly you cant spray the mold away (ive lived in many moldy homes so i have lots of experience) the only thing you can do to actually get rid of the mold is to replace the moldy plaster. It sucks, but its not worth getting mold poisoning like i have. Its horrible for your nervous system, and can take years to fix your health. Please, replace the plaster, and fix the roof, id actually do the roof first then the plaster.
Jacob don't be discouraged. Even small steps are still going towards your goal. Cheer up. For what it worth, you still know much better than what I know.
Jacob!! I feel your distress. Muddy is spectacular comic relief, though. It is a mammoth undertaking, inch by inch you will have victory. Keep at it, retrench when unexpected issues spring up and keep Amber close.
Having had experience with an old (old not ancient) home, the walls on the surface had black mold because the plaster was wet from a failed roof. Hiring someone who knew the actual way to fix the problem informed me that not only was the problem on the surface, but it was embedded in the walls starting at the top where the roof failed and filtered it’s way throughout the wall, succeeding in the mold growing within the walls staring at as well. Good luck. I hope your situation is different. I’m pulling for you both!
It is very good that you’re jumping right in and accepting the fact that you will be acquiring the skills necessary to properly maintain this beautiful house and property. I know it doesn’t feel good at the moment, but down the line you will get so much satisfaction standing back and taking in all that you’ve accomplished, it’s a feeling that’s hard to describe but totally worth all of your efforts. Did you say little Muddy was deaf? She is a born entertainer and so adorable!
Coming along!!! This building is so so charming I’m glad you can look past the mold and mess. Don’t worry that you have no experience. No one is born with experience it’s all learned. You can do it!!! You built a boat 🚤!!
Watching on from Reykjavik, Iceland, and I must say, please woffle on, the content is informative and delightful, so lovely to see the old cottage come to life.
You have the absolute right to be a novice and learn as you go. Don’t let anyone make your adventure any less amazing because you make a mistake or two or 30.
Jacob you might not know what you’re doing, but by the time you’re done, you will know more and be able to say I’ve been there done that. Everyone is that way in the beginning. Please don’t let somebody else shame you for fixing up a home that you love. Make sure they use lime mortar rather than cement to fill up those holes. Thank you for sharing.❤
Hello! I just wanted to stop by and say that I am absolutely loving your TH-cam channel! The journey you two (and your adorable pup!) are on is truly inspiring. Taking on a 500-year-old house in the Cotswolds is no small feat, but I can already tell that it's in the best possible hands. I find your adventure more exciting than any movie! Watching you tackle the thatched roof replacement and the mold issues is like being on the edge of my seat, waiting to see the incredible transformation you're sure to make. It is better than watching an adventure movie. What suspense there was with the electricity when it wasn't working during the storm! I don't think that you are mad, but courageous to take on something like this. I am sure that you will make this house livable again. And it will be much easier when spring comes. And your dog, how adorable is he, patiently waiting to play fetch. Thank you for sharing your journey, for inspiring us, and for reminding us that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. Looking forward to seeing more of your incredible progress!
Nothing ventured , nothing gained. In my 60s I've come to realize that what I regret the most is what I could have done and did not. The could have should have is terrible. Go for your dreams while you can. That you will never regret.
As one of the people who was worried for you with the mold, I'm very pleased to see you making the house a healthier workplace! Your plans and progress are good to see.
Oh dear.I know exactly how you feel and can clearly see that your problems with the heating installation are real. To have work leave your hands can be perilous.One of those knowledgeable people who supervise building work when you are unable to would be heaven wouldn’t it. That irrepressibly enthusiastically active dog is absolutely the most sweet and lovely dog a person could be fortunate enough to have in their company.That house would be sadly incomplete without him .Muddy cannot put the fun into renovation,but he helps doesn’t he.❤
I am watching from Germany and this is so delightful! It is thrilling to see what you are up to and see what you‘ve already achieved. This video in particular is interesting because apparently for the air pump heating sytem to work there is no need for perfect insulation. That puts things into perspektive as people here in germany tend to shy away from replacing old heating sytems with heat pumps thinking this would entail endless work on the facade etc
You’re doing amazing, hard, stressful work and both of you are hero’s in my book for taking on this beautiful history storybook house. Hang in there there. Live your channel, project, dog and family.
Wow, what a lovely structure, it’s going to be beautiful. The annexe is taking shape, I’d be getting it habitable, so you can live in it, but it all takes time and $$. We can see the progress but exhaustion too.
I'm in love with Muddy. He reminds me of our cat, O'Kitty. Which is really Oh, KITTY!! So, of course I'm in love. Progress is fantastic. And then I saw the leak! Ain't life grand!
Just a tip, dehumidifiers have a minimum distance to objects mine is 50cm, it won't be working effectively so close to the wall. They also don't work effectively in cold environments.
I had this issue. I don't have heating and I had to return it as it simply wouldn't activate under 15 degrees. My bedroom is usually 3-9 degrees in winter. No hope!
Lots to deal with during the holidays! I hope you guys had a nice holiday! So much to do on this house but I wouldn't do much until the roof is done then tear out all the wet walls and see if mold is behind the boards. You found it in the ceiling and odds are, after the moisture is under control you'll need to replace most walls. Darn. Love your videos. I know it's tons of work but you guys can do it! Just slow down until the roof is fixed. No need doing things over and over! It's a huge mistake I see in remodels. Water control on the whole property is first. Best wishes for a great 2025!
I can’t imagine the the amount of mold you are going to need to address! I hope you are aware of how unhealthy mold is, especially when you can’t see it! It probably is hidden behind all of your walls!
What a beautiful house in the Cotswolds it will be a credit to you when you have finished and you breathe new life into it so enjoying watching you achieve your dreams x
Someday, you'll look back and realize that all the work was worth it. It's going to be rewarding watching you tackle each job as it comes. You may not be enjoying it, but your viewers are. ❤
Where I live heat pumps are not considered to be a feasible heating technology in old buildings. Also heat pumps are not used in combination wirh radiators als the temperature needed to heat the radiators can’t be achieved by the pump. Underfloor hearing is used instead in combination with heat pumps. But I hope your heat pumps will cope well and make your house warm and cosy.
I would like to suggest that before you put any more paint on the walls, that you have them all inspected for mold on the back side. The mold you found in the ceiling distressed me. Black mold can cause disease, so it must be removed. Sometimes removal of the wallboard is the only solution. In Western North Carolina (USA), where Hurricane Helene destroyed so many houses, those houses left standing were stripped of all wallboards so that the studs and beams could dry out. I fear that the wet in your walls is as bad and needs to air out to dry and prevent additional mold. Keep up the good work and make sure you take a break now and then.
I'm sure you had an inspector as part of the buying process, but if not I'd get in contact with one experienced with mold to give you local resources. Much better than a comments section!
So many people are really rooting for you. You will get there I know you will. You're heart will break and you will cry and come close to giving in but once you pull through all of that it will be better then you dreamed.
Happy to know you have heat. 👏🏼 And if it isn’t one thing it’s another. Just remember to breath, give thanks for another challenge that you can put your name to. If the power goes out, light a candle. I bought a house that was built in 1920. It was heated with coal ( which isn’t used anymore ). We had 10” of snow last week. The main heater doesn’t work below 40°/4 Celsius, so with only space (portable) heaters we’re lucky to get it warmed to 10-15° celsius. I applaud your efforts. And little Muddy with the stick and wagging tail is adorable. ❤
I saw you uploaded and immediately put it on. I love these videos, wanted to say the music at 7:00 was a great choice. Eternally jealous of your house and willingness to put in the effort to fix her up. Good luck!
I would have suggested getting the AGA serviced and maybe a secondary Oil fired boiler fitted. I don't think that house is suited to an air source heat pump. I hate to think what your electricity bills will be trying to keep that place at 18 degrees centigrade.
Every day there is a long-form upload from you guys is a good day. Loving the updates. We're hoping to take on a similar (but less daunting) project soon, so taking notes!
As I said before, Yes, you are mad; and I love ya for it 😁 Even though I will be trusting the process, hope you don't mind if I pray for you as well. For some reason, these old bones are telling me that the storms are passing and they'll soon be sunnier day ahead.
Your dog Muddy is hilarious! We had a Springer Spaniel called ‘Boo’ …..she played fetch with rocks……not sticks…..sigh, broke most of her teeth …..silly old thing…she didn’t care ….she was insanely happy! Good luck with your house!😊👋🇨🇦
I think you're wonderful for putting your all into rescuing this beautiful piece of history. It's the best challenge. Good on ya! As for mold, I once removed a ton of black mildew from the inside of a boyfriend's residential sailboat, and I used Clorox "Clean-Up" disinfecting bleach cleaner spray. It transformed the boat, removed nicotine too, and I love the stuff.
Jacob, your videos are amazing, thank you! You've had heaps of advice, and maybe this has already been said, but if you haven't assessed the wall framing timbers and the roof timbers, it would be wise to do so soon. How much of those needs to be replaced determines the scale of the job.
Muds is so insane. I saw a vet on YT talking about how mad Springer Spaniels are 😂. Great progress. Clearing the greenery away from the house was a smart move - the extra air circulation outside will help the damp and prevent the DPC being bridged. When that rotten timber has dried out maybe you could find a resin or chemical to treat it or harden the fibres up to preserve them. I bet if you research or ask local preservation officer they’ll point you in the right direction. I fear all the plaster will need replacing inside. I was told that once the spores have got inside plaster it is very hard to kill and better to replace. But that’s for later. So looking forward to the roof going on! Bravo both of you. I would 100% have taken this on. But my goodness it takes guts. Forza!
I don't have a dog - I think they can be cute, but I don't think too much of them (I have a cat 😉). But Muddy is probably the cutest dog I've ever seen. Absolutely adorable. I would take Muddy in a second.
This may be a huge project and you may be asking yourself everyday, “why”…but, I think it is wonderful that you love this old house and you have big dreams to make it livable again. I would not listen to keyboard warriors who want to bitch about everything! You do you and go with your gut! Cheers from America! Rooting you on all the way!
Hang in there. You 3 can tackle this mountain and reach the top. Your dog i believe to be possessed in the best possible way, he is not normal, like a child with add. I love him!
There are ALWAYS naysayers. Ignore them! What you guys are doing is amazing and I look forward to seeing how you progress. Mistakes are how we learn…frustrating as they are. Keep it up!
Muddy is silly, crazy and the most patient dog ever when it comes to playing 'fetch the stick'. You know this house is one of those ' breath and move forward' kind of jobs. It wont be done next week or next month or maybe even next year. But with your drive and determination it will get done and in the end you will have a wonderful old home that you have saved.
Mould is a problem even in modern homes which don't have the thatched roof problem. I've found mould spray and dehumidifiers help to keep it under control, but it still comes back - I hope you're able to find a solution to it.
You have a great personality for this! I do feel for you but do you appear incredibly resilient. I really look forward to your updates. Summer days are coming. The roof will eventually be sorted. You're doing all you can at this moment in time. People will always give their opinion but its not their home or their bank balance is it. I'm willing that thatcher and springtime on with all my might for you! Muddy is an absolute ball of adorable madness. Him standing and waiting for hours without fault, is very similar to you guys patiently waiting on another scale. Time is all you need. We believe in you!
Thomas Tallis is my calming music. Beware when I play it. It’ll all be worth it. If you’d Not done what you’ve done so far and the house was still abandoned there would be even more water and progressive damage so you’re healing the old girl bit by bit. And Muddy doesn’t care so that’s all that matters ❤
OMG! I want your dog! …he is hilarious!! I was laughing so much with the way he looks….Congratulations you have the funniest dog ever!!❤❤❤And of course congratulations to you too for your amazing humor despite the situation!
Hello Jacob, what a whirlwind this past week with everything happening, I can imagine how that must be feeling. Muddy is so funny lol, and you know what they say about dogs and their owners lol. It's really great being able to follow your epic renovation from the beginning. Greetings from Cape Town.😂👍❤️🇿🇦
Jacob, the problem with all the tarpaulin sheets is that the roof is already soaking wet and holding plenty of water, and now you've covered most of it in tarpaulin but what you haven't realised is it's just making the roof more wet as the moisture content within the roof will rise as it will within the timbers within your walls etc. The only chance you are going to have at tackling the moisture problems is to strip away the roofing that's there now. I know you are trying hard to save as much of the building as possible but you are actually creating way more problems than you are managing to fix. This is showing already as you have mentioned in this video you have still got issues with the moldy walls etc. You have made a good start by removing the ivy on the outside walls and the tree's and shrubs that were up against the building but until you remove the roof your fighting a losing battle 🤔🧐🫣. Eventually you will spend more money than you need to because you're going at it the wrong way!!!
Could not agree more. Cosmetic fixes are waste of time and energy until the roof is dealt with. That must be the first priority.
But they said in the previous video they can’t get anyone in to do the work yet as everyone is booked up.
@@CattyT1 exactly
I agree. And I have expertise so I can help if they like that. I have worked as a thatch roofer and this is the worst case of neglect i've seen.
Agreed!!!
Hey Jacob, I Would love to help you guys with the roof. I worked for a year as a thatch roofer in the Netherlands and would love to also learn it the English traditional way. Also I restore 17th and 18th century antiques so I can show you how to keep wood in good condition. And you have to get the roof done as soon as possible. This is very important to preserve the timber frame. Also I have a dog that is a bit like Muddy. So I am very amused by your videos! Honoustly you need help from practical people with expertise who don't ask a sh*t load of money. Geeting from Daniel from The Netherlands.
Commenting on this to increase the chances that he will see it.
@fjashfcsahds You can email Jacob if you like. Go to his home page, click on more under his name and then on reveal email address.
That is so generous. ❤❤❤
You're a kind soul. Here's another comment to help get your offer noticed.
Commenting for increased visibility
Mate, we bought a 120 year old house about 2 years ago. Needed a new roof.
Went through exact the same thing with water leaking in, lights shorting out during a rainstorm and waking up at 03.00 in the morning because there’s water dripping on my head.
Once that roof is up and you’re warm, you’ll be in a different world all together.
Keep it up 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Wonderful to hear inspiration for them. Especially from someone that experienced what they're experiencing. Bravo. Cheers from canada.
The old builders around here always say "if you don't have a roof you don't have a building." Barns hundreds of years old will stand forever (unpainted, ignored) if the roof is kept watertight. If it isn't the whole thing can simply collapse within a few years. Getting the roof fixed will change everything.
Right, I understand that the roof is VERY old, but it needs to be REPLACED.
You are exactly right.
Muddy is the most hilariously fun loving dog!!! Good luck with the restoration, challenges & hard work.
Darling Mr. Harrell, you've complained about being cold all throughout this vid. Yet your head is bare! A wool cap or hat will make a world of difference in your warmth and mood. Best wishes!
I just love Muddy. I could watch his stick enthusiasm all day! You house is wonderful too.
Muddy is adorable but I see an obsession with the game ‘fetch’ happening. At least that’s what I see on the videos so can’t be 100% about it.
TBH Jacob, I would probably take all the plaster off the way and let the house breathe a little, Plus you dont know how bad the mold got behind the 'visible' plaster.
The house will live longer for the efforts im sure !
Mmmm and the paint off the bricks!!!!
Jacob if people never dreamed we’d still be in the Stone Age! Enjoy your journey all the ups and downs. You and Amber will save this beautiful 500 year old cottage for another 500 years! And Muddy and his log kept me smiling 😋 Thanks for taking us along on your adventure from here in the States 🥰🥰
My favorite part of your videos is your dog, Muddy. We’ve had 6 English Springer Spaniels and our second had the same obsession with sticks as Muddy. We cleared about an acre of woods to build a vacation home and our Susie was in heaven hauling branches out of the brush piles we stacked. Muddy makes me laugh with each new piece of wood.
It’s called a “labor of love” for a reason. Good luck and God speed. There are those of us who love the fact that you’re restoring this piece of history.
New tarps for the roof are a must . Even if they're cheap , they'll last long enough to keep the water out 'til the roof gets done . Until you keep the water out , you'll keep getting mold .
Another suggestion . When removing your clothes at the end of the day , keep the mask on until you've taken EVERYTHING else off . The mold spores will get onto and into your clothes , and pulling the mask off first and then disturbing anything on your clothes means you're breathing it in .
I thought the same about the mask!
How can you not smile when Maddy is such a ray of sunshine, head cocked to the side, blissfully unaware of... well, everything
but a stick. Thank you for sharing your reno journey with the world. Best wishes from Canada.
Maddy is the cutest Dog EVER !
@@annlyon144 I could watch Maddy for hours 😂so cute & funny
Hope your not planning on putting Carpet down as Maddy will constantly track mud and debris into the house .. and probably lean up against the walls , making them dirty as well . 😮
@@ianchisholm9260 You're right, but luckily they're already in the process of selling their current home, so Maddy probably learned his inside manners in that house.
@ Maddy can do whatever he wants ! 😂
Just an idea but could you remove the thatch and install roofing membrane to keep the water out at least? I'm sure that would buy you sometime to get a thatcher organised.
Most of us are thinking If I were younger I would be right where you are!. Letting the old girl know she is in safe hands finally! With reno it always requires you take more out before you start back in.
You're right..I would be there too.
I have definitely had that thought when watching this channel. I would absolutely love to live in a pretty cottage in the Cotswolds. As an Aussie who spent a month living there in 2019, I just fell in love with this beautiful historic area. Does anybody know what part of the Cotswolds this cottage is in?
I would haul my sorry ass across the pond to help also!~ Debbi
That is perfectly said 👊👍💯✌️
100% agree.
Jacob, you have made great headway on the house for sure. All this stress and hassle will seem like a mild nuisance when you're done. Keep it up! Love Muddy!!!!
I’m 64 years old and live in the US . 40 years ago we bought a house that hadn’t been lived in for 20 years. We took it down to frame and replaced everything but the solid wood doors and all baseboards and door frames and the beautiful stair railings. It took us 9 months with help from family and friends.
As someone who has serially bought derelict houses, I love this content. It is all worth it! On a side note, in possible defense of the unsatisfactory work you hired out, my husband is a builder and general contractor. If people want to be their own GC's but can't be on the job site at all times, subcontractors sometimes have to use their judgment because the decision maker (the homeowner and de facto GC) isn't there to talk to when things come up. If the subs screw up, my husband, as the GC, is responsible for making things right; that's why he gets a percentage to manage the job. I'm not at all saying what they did is acceptable, just that it's a risk you take on a large DIY project when you can't be there 100 percent of the time and aren't paying someone to be there on your behalf. (Totally understandable; it's just one more added cost!) On a lighter note, one summer in our new-to-us very old house, we had to put a bowl to catch rain ON OUR BED in our ground-floor bedroom of a 2-story fixer-upper! We ended up, eventually, with a lovely home, and lots of good stories. You'll get there!
Very insightful comment!
So happy to see you bring the old girl back to life....she is a gem
Muddy is adorable. He's crazy but he is so cute doing his thing. I think you're going to have a beautiful home some day. I have faith.
I adore your channel, Jacob! Your exuberant personality rings out, just as strongly as Amber’s pragmatic sensibility grounds your quest. Muddy is the perfect mad component, and all taken together you will beat this all back and create a thing of such beauty!
Heating and proper mold treatment is such a massive win for this house, congratulations! One lesson that life never fails to remind me is that progress is possible, but it won't be on your timeline. Everything will take longer than you expect/want it to, but that's OKAY. Progress is progress!
You're not crazy, you're not mad. It's a noble thing you're doing in reserving this property.
Amen!
Got to love Muddy, he sure brings a bit of levity to the process!
You are doing the best you can with what is available. Getting the heat pump is a great idea. At least warming things from the inside makes an easier place to work. Hope
you can get the roof done soon. Things will
feel like you aren't have to do the same things over again that you have already done. 👍🏼
P.S. I Love Your Dog.🤗💕💕💕
It will be beautiful when renovated and you will be even more in love with the house when you make it a home. Onward and upward!
If we humans did not tackle the unknown, no progress would ever be made!! Bravo on your following your love and acting on your dream!
The house suits the three of you so perfectly. I wish there was more help available for neglected old buildings. I love how much you love and care for the cottage. Agree with the others that the roof has to be properly sorted first and there's no point doing any work inside until it is. Brilliant work outside. Keep the cups of tea flowing ❤
Your dog is glorious .so sweet .don’t let people knock what you’re doing it’s a fabulous look back at history and you are saving it . Well done
Doesn’t matter what anyone thinks. You’re following your dreams. Well done, you will get there and reap the rewards x
Sadly you cant spray the mold away (ive lived in many moldy homes so i have lots of experience) the only thing you can do to actually get rid of the mold is to replace the moldy plaster. It sucks, but its not worth getting mold poisoning like i have. Its horrible for your nervous system, and can take years to fix your health. Please, replace the plaster, and fix the roof, id actually do the roof first then the plaster.
Jacob don't be discouraged. Even small steps are still going towards your goal. Cheer up.
For what it worth, you still know much better than what I know.
Jacob!!
I feel your distress.
Muddy is spectacular comic relief, though.
It is a mammoth undertaking, inch by inch you will have victory. Keep at it, retrench when unexpected issues spring up and keep Amber close.
Having had experience with an old (old not ancient) home, the walls on the surface had black mold because the plaster was wet from a failed roof. Hiring someone who knew the actual way to fix the problem informed me that not only was the problem on the surface, but it was embedded in the walls starting at the top where the roof failed and filtered it’s way throughout the wall, succeeding in the mold growing within the walls staring at as well. Good luck. I hope your situation is different. I’m pulling for you both!
I found this channel yesterday and binged all the 3 episodes. These are so well made videos!
It is very good that you’re jumping right in and accepting the fact that you will be acquiring the skills necessary to properly maintain this beautiful house and property. I know it doesn’t feel good at the moment, but down the line you will get so much satisfaction standing back and taking in all that you’ve accomplished, it’s a feeling that’s hard to describe but totally worth all of your efforts.
Did you say little Muddy was deaf? She is a born entertainer and so adorable!
This is my new favorite video series! You are saving history, you are history heroes!! Don’t give up hope. Love to the delightful Muddy!!❤
Coming along!!! This building is so so charming I’m glad you can look past the mold and mess. Don’t worry that you have no experience. No one is born with experience it’s all learned. You can do it!!! You built a boat 🚤!!
Watching on from Reykjavik, Iceland, and I must say, please woffle on, the content is informative and delightful, so lovely to see the old cottage come to life.
You have the absolute right to be a novice and learn as you go. Don’t let anyone make your adventure any less amazing because you make a mistake or two or 30.
Jacob you might not know what you’re doing, but by the time you’re done, you will know more and be able to say I’ve been there done that. Everyone is that way in the beginning.
Please don’t let somebody else shame you for fixing up a home that you love.
Make sure they use lime mortar rather than cement to fill up those holes.
Thank you for sharing.❤
Hello! I just wanted to stop by and say that I am absolutely loving your TH-cam channel! The journey you two (and your adorable pup!) are on is truly inspiring. Taking on a 500-year-old house in the Cotswolds is no small feat, but I can already tell that it's in the best possible hands.
I find your adventure more exciting than any movie! Watching you tackle the thatched roof replacement and the mold issues is like being on the edge of my seat, waiting to see the incredible transformation you're sure to make.
It is better than watching an adventure movie. What suspense there was with the electricity when it wasn't working during the storm! I don't think that you are mad, but courageous to take on something like this. I am sure that you will make this house livable again. And it will be much easier when spring comes. And your dog, how adorable is he, patiently waiting to play fetch.
Thank you for sharing your journey, for inspiring us, and for reminding us that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. Looking forward to seeing more of your incredible progress!
You learn by making mistakes. Don't ever let that get you down. You're doing a great job
Nothing ventured , nothing gained. In my 60s I've come to realize that what I regret the most is what I could have done and did not. The could have should have is terrible. Go for your dreams while you can. That you will never regret.
As one of the people who was worried for you with the mold, I'm very pleased to see you making the house a healthier workplace! Your plans and progress are good to see.
Oh dear.I know exactly how you feel and can clearly see that your problems with the heating installation are real. To have work leave your hands can be perilous.One of those knowledgeable people who supervise building work when you are unable to would be heaven wouldn’t it.
That irrepressibly enthusiastically active dog is absolutely the most sweet and lovely dog a person could be fortunate enough to have in their company.That house would be sadly incomplete without him .Muddy cannot put the fun into renovation,but he helps doesn’t he.❤
I am watching from Germany and this is so delightful! It is thrilling to see what you are up to and see what you‘ve already achieved. This video in particular is interesting because apparently for the air pump heating sytem to work there is no need for perfect insulation. That puts things into perspektive as people here in germany tend to shy away from replacing old heating sytems with heat pumps thinking this would entail endless work on the facade etc
You’re doing amazing, hard, stressful work and both of you are hero’s in my book for taking on this beautiful history storybook house. Hang in there there. Live your channel, project, dog and family.
Wow, what a lovely structure, it’s going to be beautiful.
The annexe is taking shape, I’d be getting it habitable, so you can live in it, but it all takes time and $$. We can see the progress but exhaustion too.
I love Muddy! What a good baby he is. So joyful! 🥰
I'm in love with Muddy. He reminds me of our cat, O'Kitty. Which is really Oh, KITTY!! So, of course I'm in love.
Progress is fantastic. And then I saw the leak! Ain't life grand!
I’m in love with Maddy also ! Just watching him gives me happiness !
Keep the dream alive of restoring this beautiful cottage it’s so lovely that you are passionate about it and in love with it yay! 🤩✨👌
I admire your perseverance in the face of so many challenges!
Just a tip, dehumidifiers have a minimum distance to objects mine is 50cm, it won't be working effectively so close to the wall. They also don't work effectively in cold environments.
I had this issue. I don't have heating and I had to return it as it simply wouldn't activate under 15 degrees. My bedroom is usually 3-9 degrees in winter. No hope!
23:02 looking at that bright, gorgeous entrance with those windows from a dark, cold, damp evening outside is the coziest thing.
Lots to deal with during the holidays! I hope you guys had a nice holiday! So much to do on this house but I wouldn't do much until the roof is done then tear out all the wet walls and see if mold is behind the boards. You found it in the ceiling and odds are, after the moisture is under control you'll need to replace most walls. Darn. Love your videos. I know it's tons of work but you guys can do it! Just slow down until the roof is fixed. No need doing things over and over! It's a huge mistake I see in remodels. Water control on the whole property is first. Best wishes for a great 2025!
I can’t imagine the the amount of mold you are going to need to address! I hope you are aware of how unhealthy mold is, especially when you can’t see it! It probably is hidden behind all of your walls!
What a beautiful house in the Cotswolds it will be a credit to you when you have finished and you breathe new life into it so enjoying watching you achieve your dreams x
Someday, you'll look back and realize that all the work was worth it. It's going to be rewarding watching you tackle each job as it comes. You may not be enjoying it, but your viewers are. ❤
Where I live heat pumps are not considered to be a feasible heating technology in old buildings. Also heat pumps are not used in combination wirh radiators als the temperature needed to heat the radiators can’t be achieved by the pump. Underfloor hearing is used instead in combination with heat pumps. But I hope your heat pumps will cope well and make your house warm and cosy.
They may have a separate power source for a boiler.
Love your enthusiasm and upbeat personality, shine on….
I would like to suggest that before you put any more paint on the walls, that you have them all inspected for mold on the back side. The mold you found in the ceiling distressed me. Black mold can cause disease, so it must be removed. Sometimes removal of the wallboard is the only solution.
In Western North Carolina (USA), where Hurricane Helene destroyed so many houses, those houses left standing were stripped of all wallboards so that the studs and beams could dry out. I fear that the wet in your walls is as bad and needs to air out to dry and prevent additional mold.
Keep up the good work and make sure you take a break now and then.
Thoroughly enjoying these videos and thank you bringing us along. Aw whenever you start to feel stressed we see scenes with Muddy. So sweet
Don't listen to anyone telling you that you shouldn't or can't take this on. What you are doing is inspirational.
I'm sure you had an inspector as part of the buying process, but if not I'd get in contact with one experienced with mold to give you local resources. Much better than a comments section!
So many people are really rooting for you. You will get there I know you will. You're heart will break and you will cry and come close to giving in but once you pull through all of that it will be better then you dreamed.
Happy to know you have heat. 👏🏼 And if it isn’t one thing it’s another. Just remember to breath, give thanks for another challenge that you can
put your name to. If the power goes out, light a candle. I bought a
house that was built in 1920. It was heated with coal ( which isn’t used anymore ). We had 10” of snow last week. The main heater doesn’t work below 40°/4 Celsius, so with only space (portable) heaters we’re lucky to get it warmed to 10-15° celsius. I applaud your efforts. And little Muddy with the stick and wagging tail is adorable. ❤
Keep on going, once a new roof is on you will be into the smooth sailing. You are doing great!
Muddy is the best. Pure optimism and completely crazy.
I saw you uploaded and immediately put it on. I love these videos, wanted to say the music at 7:00 was a great choice. Eternally jealous of your house and willingness to put in the effort to fix her up. Good luck!
I would have suggested getting the AGA serviced and maybe a secondary Oil fired boiler fitted. I don't think that house is suited to an air source heat pump. I hate to think what your electricity bills will be trying to keep that place at 18 degrees centigrade.
Every day there is a long-form upload from you guys is a good day. Loving the updates. We're hoping to take on a similar (but less daunting) project soon, so taking notes!
As I said before, Yes, you are mad; and I love ya for it 😁
Even though I will be trusting the process, hope you don't mind if I pray for you as well.
For some reason, these old bones are telling me that the storms are passing and they'll soon be sunnier day ahead.
At some point, you'll have to make a video of just Muddy being Muddy! That log he wants to play with is hilarious !
Your dog Muddy is hilarious! We had a Springer Spaniel called ‘Boo’ …..she played fetch with rocks……not sticks…..sigh, broke most of her teeth …..silly old thing…she didn’t care ….she was insanely happy! Good luck with your house!😊👋🇨🇦
I think you're wonderful for putting your all into rescuing this beautiful piece of history. It's the best challenge. Good on ya! As for mold, I once removed a ton of black mildew from the inside of a boyfriend's residential sailboat, and I used Clorox "Clean-Up" disinfecting bleach cleaner spray. It transformed the boat, removed nicotine too, and I love the stuff.
So many of these historical buildings are gone, so thank you for doing what you can to save a beautiful piece of the past .
You both are doing a great job - nice that you have recorded it for posterity as you can look back in 20 years and be amazed at what you accomplished
take my hat off to you for taking this progect on be a smashing place once you get the roof and pointing done
I love that you both took on this project! It's going to be amazing when you are done.
Jacob, your videos are amazing, thank you! You've had heaps of advice, and maybe this has already been said, but if you haven't assessed the wall framing timbers and the roof timbers, it would be wise to do so soon. How much of those needs to be replaced determines the scale of the job.
omg! Your dog is so cute! Thanks for sharing your journey with us! Cheering you on from chilly Canada. 😁👋👋👋
Muds is so insane. I saw a vet on YT talking about how mad Springer Spaniels are 😂. Great progress. Clearing the greenery away from the house was a smart move - the extra air circulation outside will help the damp and prevent the DPC being bridged. When that rotten timber has dried out maybe you could find a resin or chemical to treat it or harden the fibres up to preserve them. I bet if you research or ask local preservation officer they’ll point you in the right direction. I fear all the plaster will need replacing inside. I was told that once the spores have got inside plaster it is very hard to kill and better to replace. But that’s for later. So looking forward to the roof going on! Bravo both of you. I would 100% have taken this on. But my goodness it takes guts. Forza!
I don't have a dog - I think they can be cute, but I don't think too much of them (I have a cat 😉). But Muddy is probably the cutest dog I've ever seen. Absolutely adorable. I would take Muddy in a second.
This may be a huge project and you may be asking yourself everyday, “why”…but, I think it is wonderful that you love this old house and you have big dreams to make it livable again. I would not listen to keyboard warriors who want to bitch about everything! You do you and go with your gut! Cheers from America! Rooting you on all the way!
Hang in there. You 3 can tackle this mountain and reach the top. Your dog i believe to be possessed in the best possible way, he is not normal, like a child with add. I love him!
There are ALWAYS naysayers. Ignore them! What you guys are doing is amazing and I look forward to seeing how you progress. Mistakes are how we learn…frustrating as they are. Keep it up!
Muddy is silly, crazy and the most patient dog ever when it comes to playing 'fetch the stick'.
You know this house is one of those ' breath and move forward' kind of jobs. It wont be done next week or next month or maybe even next year. But with your drive and determination it will get done and in the end you will have a wonderful old home that you have saved.
You’re a Dreamer, in the best sense 😁 you can afford this passion project.. most just dream or get in over their heads. I find this heartwarming.
Keep it up. You're doing so well! I know it seems endless, but you'll get there and have a beautiful home. ❤❤❤
Mould is a problem even in modern homes which don't have the thatched roof problem. I've found mould spray and dehumidifiers help to keep it under control, but it still comes back - I hope you're able to find a solution to it.
Don't give up... you are doing great.
You have a great personality for this! I do feel for you but do you appear incredibly resilient. I really look forward to your updates. Summer days are coming. The roof will eventually be sorted. You're doing all you can at this moment in time. People will always give their opinion but its not their home or their bank balance is it. I'm willing that thatcher and springtime on with all my might for you! Muddy is an absolute ball of adorable madness. Him standing and waiting for hours without fault, is very similar to you guys patiently waiting on another scale. Time is all you need. We believe in you!
Thomas Tallis is my calming music. Beware when I play it.
It’ll all be worth it. If you’d Not done what you’ve done so far and the house was still abandoned there would be even more water and progressive damage so you’re healing the old girl bit by bit. And Muddy doesn’t care so that’s all that matters ❤
So excited to see an update!! Cheering you on from Canada!!
muddy: chill out and throw the log Jacob, everything will be fine if you throw the log.
"This comment is brought to you by Springer Spaniels"
OMG! I want your dog! …he is hilarious!! I was laughing so much with the way he looks….Congratulations you have the funniest dog ever!!❤❤❤And of course congratulations to you too for your amazing humor despite the situation!
A Salute to all my fellow #Tradesmen in the world, our Trade-skills are not to be taken lightly! 🤠
If they do extra doing it your way, it will cost you.
Solidarity✊️
Hello Jacob, what a whirlwind this past week with everything happening, I can imagine how that must be feeling. Muddy is so funny lol, and you know what they say about dogs and their owners lol. It's really great being able to follow your epic renovation from the beginning. Greetings from Cape Town.😂👍❤️🇿🇦
Yay! I’m so glad you are using vinegar this time I was worried about the mold coming back and making you sick
Love your crazy dog!! Don’t be downhearted. This won’t be easy, but will be worthwhile. Look after each other. It will be tough