Hey Caleb, I tried to buy but the shipping system doesn’t recognise New Zealand 🇳🇿 addresses. Is there a work around? Would love to help pay for the sewer pipe 😢
Hi Caleb, will you be releasing a zip up hoodie in black and gold? Also will you be releasing a black zip up with that machinery printed lining in the hood?
I may be able to help on two fronts. One, I have a little digger that’s perfect for tight areas if you wanted to dig and repair the damaged sections of pipe. Second, I am a mechanic and fairly good at diagnosing small machinery, no guarantees but I could look at the lift to see if i could get you back to work without an expensive service call. I’m an hour on the IL side of the river if you want a hand.
*Kaleb, whatever day suits YOU to put out the videos is ok by me... Just do not stress about things.. as that won't help your blood pressure. My sincere condolences over the sad passing of your family member.*
I manage a large house from the 30s and they had two of those door frame switches inside the house. For this house they acted as light switches. Kinda like in a fridge, whenever you opened the door it would release the switch and turn on the light. If you closed the door, it would shut the lights off. The switches in this house were in storage/service areas so they were more practical than fumbling around in the dark for the light switch.
I was thinking the same thing! My last house was from the early 20's and also had one. In my case, it was on a door on the second floor going into what was a storage room
Hello Caleb, I live in STL City so I am familiar with the code that has the downspouts draining into the sewer lines. Here's my suggestion: I believe you have new gutters, etc. Go around the house and photograph all the gutter work and downspouts tied into the sewer line at the base. Then remove the bottom piece and have it drain out into the yard (away from the house, of course). Then just keep on working on other things. You will be able to put off the sewer work for quite a while. Even if the inspector notices, you can show them the photos and let them know your intention is to tie the lines back in, just not immediately. I cannot image that the city inspectors would not let this slide for a year or so.
@@davebryant8050 I was just thinking that. Yeah, totally agree - stop draining rain water into sewer and see if you can hold out on the major work. Also, how about some digging and patching the existing pipe? Just temporarily. The hardest part will be the digging - and that won't be that bad.
In Queensland downpipes are run into the street. The local councils periodically do smoke testing of sewers to make sure no downpipes are connected to them.
Someone may have already mentioned this, but could the button on the door have been wired to a bell? You've said that the basement was the second owner's veterinary office, so perhaps he had the door wired to a bell so he would know when someone entered and he was in another part of the office.
Some friends of mine had a house built in the 1920s, and the closet doors had buttons like that. When you opened the door and the button was released the light came on, and when the door closed and button was pressed the light went off.
An idea that has worked for me in the past: the biggest cost in that huge $10,000 price is the digging. It is worth checking on the rental cost of a large mechanical trencher and/or mini excavator. It may be cheaper for you to dig up the pipe and have the plumbers just plumb. Some plumbers object, but most are delighted to fob off the worst of the job to the homeowner and you could save 50% to 60% (at least, that's how it worked out for me in North Carolina). God bless, and keep up the good work!
Agree, there is no way Id be paying a contractor for the sewer if I was in his shoes. Imagine how much momentum the project will gain just by seeing progress on the roof. you cant put a price on that sort of motivation sometimes.
Don’t forget you can also add shrinkable poly around the windows and unused doors to save dollars on your heating bill. If uploading on Fridays work for you then it works for us. You need to have a life and if Monday impedes that then it needs to change! I hope these issues that keep creeping up stop! Cheers to you and Kim❣️
For your sewer line issue, some insurance companies have utility lines coverage. I'm not sure what's on your policy but it might be something to check out.
Sorry for your loss. Make videos when and as you can, we'll watch! If I were wealthy I'd send you a check to cover repairing the lift and fixing the sinkhole. As it is, all I can do is encourage you to keep moving forward. What you've done already is so impressive, and we're all rooting for you!
The switch in the door jamb is quite literally called a "jamb switch." They can be used for security, but more commonly back in the day they were used to automatically turn on a light when a door opens, such as a closet, but could be other rooms as well, or a door open bell or light. You'll almost certainly have to permanently separate the stormwater drainage and sanitary sewer. In the Twin Cities, the downspouts had to be diverted and the drain pipes filled with concrete or otherwise permanently capped.
Infrared stripper is a great tool. Usually the thicker the paint, the better it works. Bummer about the sewer line. That’s part of home moanership! Put out videos at your convenience, we watch em at ours. Condolences on the grandparent. And keep up the good work, you guys have done a lot this year.
When you have the sewer outflow pipe replaced have them install a backwater valve as well if allowed by your local code. This is a one way valve right at the house side of the outflow that will prevent storm drainage from backing up into the house. It's an absolute must if you're already doing the work!
Exactly this is what most houses have. In old houses only problem might be that is gets clogged sometimes....when the sewer line don't have good angle down the main line
Sorry about your grandma and the sewage. Great work on the doors. Attitude and perspective is half the battle. Focus on what you want and it will come to you. You happily married man. Love to both of you. ❤
Whenever you up load is soon enough. We're all here for you, and naturally want what's best for you. You owe us nothing, but are so generous to be sharing with total strangers. Keep being awesome.
When I was a kid there was an old fashioned drug store in the closest town, it had a switch on the door hinge size like that, when the door was open there was a buzzer that sounded, so the owner would be alerted to a customer coming in
You move the releases to whatever works best for you! I live in FL, so sinkholes are nothing new here, but I was surprised at first when I saw the picture…now it makes sense. I hope it gets fixed with no extra issues or $$$ than you already anticipate. So sorry for your loss, as well. Love to you, Kim and the fur kids ❤
When I lived in Florida, I bought a topographic map of the area. I was amazed at just how many sinkholes were in the region. As groundwater is pumped out for municipalities, the limestone can't support the weight of the soil and buildings so it collapses. It can happen anywhere at anytime down there. I saw where my buddy's friends house went into a sinkhole. They got out just in time as they were getting ready for bed at the time it happened!
Hey there! That button IS for a security system. I grew up with one in my house. It lets a security panel know if the door is open or closed. I'd put money on 1980s or later. Keep up the good work, y'all. :)
Since the door is in the basement it may have been a bell button to let the Veterinarian know if someone has come in. Caleb did show a doorbell as well. What do you all think?
@@patriciapage9950 there was a bell of sorts attached to ours, although that would bring it back to the 20s. I thought it was plastic, but that makes more sense. I probably saw wrong
Those corbels came out beautiful. She did a fantastic job. I would have thought those buttons you were wondering what they were, I would think it would have been a light switch. You are doing a great job on that old door.
Yeesh. On a Sunday, about 12 years ago, I was doing laundry while prepping for a job interview the next day. All of the sudden I heard something sloshing, and black water started coming up in our bathtub. >:( We'd had the cast iron waste lines under the house replaced, but apparently the long run to the sewer was also cast iron and had rusted away over the years. We'd wondered why the oleander plant at the end of the row looked so much greener than the rest. Roots in the sewer pipe. So we called an Emergency Rooter place because we both had to work. They came Monday, excavated a four foot deep trench out to the front fence, replaced the line, and put in a clean out, $11,000, thank you very much. Then a week later, black water in the tub again!! The company came back, it's now the section on the far side of the fence, under the sidewalk, to the inside edge of the curb, six feed deep, and another $5,000. So frustrating to shell out that much over something you can't even see. It sucks! You definitely have my sympathy. This is why this community is worth so much. Hang in there!
Look into pipe bursting, they just dig a hole at each end and pull the new sewer line through, bursting through the old line, it works great and is much cheaper.
@@The2ndEmpireStrikesBack contact your local wastewater collection system maintenance manager, they might be able give you a few contractors that do it. My city did bursting almost exclusively when they replaced the sewer lines.
I feel like it’s kind of a stroke of luck that the lift was out and you couldn’t get started on your roof. Now you still had the money you need to put into the sewer line. It sucks, still, but things could have been worse. “One bite at a time”. I like that. Hey, new merch idea!
That door bell looking thing in the door frame, looks to me like an vintage door buzzer. Those buzzers were often hooked up at the homes delivery door and wired to the servants quarters to let them know that a delivery was dropped off, like milk, meat eggs, packages, etc. Back in the day, back doors or side doors were often left unlocked during the day so these deliveries could be made quick. The door would buzz and the servant would quickly go fetch the delivery. No deliveries were made at the front door.
Friday is a great day to release new videos! I was very excited to see you tonight. I’m sorry you have to deal with sewers! That is a serious hassle but you REALLY can’t let that go! Ugh! The good news is you have most of the parts for your roof! Have a great weekend and we’ll see you next Friday!🌸
Caleb, I think this could have been a buzzer system on the door. We used to have one something like this on an old house we had. It was to let Daddy know a customer had come into the store so he could attend the customer. Daddy was in very poor health and needed to rest a lot. He could lay down in between customers while our house was attached to the store. The buzzer went off when the doo to the store was opened and Daddy would go to the store. When you buy old houses, everything hits at once sometimes and you have to make the best choices you can at the time you have to make them. It sucks! My hubby and I have been there a few times. The thing is, it always works out. It may not work out the way you planned, the way you wanted or thought it would, but it does work out. Best of luck and best wishes, I know it it's hard but Caleb, if it were easy, it wouldn't be worth doing. You and Kim are smart, young, and energetic. You will be fine. I have every confidence that this place will be a wonderful monument to Brown that you will be busting your buttons over before too long.
I'm an artist ; these homes are wayyyyyy more important than painting masterpieces! Because, there are ....FUNCTIONAL art, and history! I applause this man. When I can I will donate. He is so good at this. Wow.
Aw, man. I am sorry about the pipe Caleb. That is a tough situation. I think these unexpected crisis' are somewhat the norm for home owners of older homes but, regardless I am sorry that you were hit with this curve ball when you are making significant progress and the building is starting to look like it should. Hang in there man and I hope a resolution to your problem presents itself soon. All my best to you and the family man. Pete Hollister,Ca
My condolences for your loss. Prayers for you and family. About that switch. It's connected to a light switch for electrical. It's an old version from the 30s or 40s. Used as a security feature since it's located in the basement door and was dark under the old stairs, it would (as a pressure button) immediately light the room as the door was opened. Modern versions can be bought at hardware stores or online at Amazon.
Caleb, sooooooo sorry for your loss. May she Rest In Eternal Peace!!!! Looks like you've been a VERY BUSY MAN!!!! I know, BIG SURPRISE!!!! You do your Videos any way you choose. You will ALWAYS HAVE AN AUDIENCE!!!!
Caleb if Friday works better for you then it definitely works better for us. Just because we love your content doesn’t mean you can’t have a life 😊. Love to you and Kim.
As a resident at a 1930s st Louis house, we have definitely had issues with water backing up and building in the basement, and issues with the old clay sewer pipes.
If not already Change the pipes in basement and have overflow drain ! and waterproof basement. Your stripper should be able to let it sit for about 1 -1/2 2 hours and Should scarp it Right off easy real clean
Kaleb it’s great to see your content ,please don’t burn yourself out we want to see yourself and Kim for a long time.Take care of each other and enjoy life.👍
As to the switch in the basement door frame, my best guess is that when the vet had a clinic there and a customer entered it would ring a bell to alert them to that. This sort of thing is very common even now in situations where the staff might not be up front to greet customers in a small "mom & pop" type shop, but in another location working. Sorry about the sewer line glitch. Ouch!
Caleb, I feel your impatience with the roof project but the sewer line is definitely the priority - having that stuff backing up into the basement is a health hazard. Take a breath and remind yourself that everything happens for a reason even if we don’t know what that is. The roof project will get done when the time is right and there are lots of other things that need doing in the meantime.❤
Hi Kaleb, I’ll be here to watch you whenever you can make videos. I can just imagine how simply busy you are. Your work is beautiful. And last but not least, sorry for your loss.
I am sorry for your loss. No worries on the videos, do them when you can. I wish I could send you the money for all the things you need to fix but do only what you can. Thank you for sharing and God Bless. The wedding pictures are fantastic. Love them.
Amazing people doing what you can, life is not perfect and trying to be perfect is not healthy. So stay healthy and please always remember you are apparently and you are "awesome"
Take care of your health! This channel is a gem and I'd much rather know you and Kim are okay than have more content at your expense. This kind of disclosure is brilliant, and I appreciate how realistic y'all keep this project by including these setbacks in your story. You keep finding impressive things to add to your gorgeous home and I hope this repair/preservation continues to progress as you wish it to. I can't stop watching this channel. When I'm depressed I look back over these videos for hope and they do so much to lift my spirits. You two are doing something I can only currently dream of doing someday and I admire your impressive efforts. Take care of yourself, I'll send your merch link to my friends! Thanks for the update!
As a short term fix would you be able to just sign up and repair the two collapsed areas? I know the whole line will eventually have to be replaced and perhaps it is just as costly to do two small repairs as opposed to the whole line. In my city they are starting to require gutter and any other untainted water be separated from sewage lines. The clear water is sent straight to the river and sewage goes to treatment plants. A little at a time all of the old combined sewage/clear drains are being separated. My home is on a corner and before the two were separated on a hot day standing on the corner would make someone gag from the smell coming up from the street drain. Happily my part of town now has separate lines for sewage and clear. But I know for a city the size of St. Louis that change over will take many years and a lot of money. And like your other fans, so sorry for the pain of your family's loss.
Sending my condolences on the passing of your Grandmother. A wedding, a funeral and now a sinkhole...you have your hands full, my friend. I'm happy that you're finding a better work/life balance. Whenever you have time to film and post, we'll be here to watch. As always, wishing you and both of your beautiful ladies nothing but the best. BTW, every time I see her I call her Margaret in my head (the house, not Kim!)
Stl city has a sewer lateral program that covers those types of repairs. The city pays in full for repairs. The application and instructions are on the city’s website
Friday videos are GOOD!!! You need to have a life and some down-time from ALL the work you do on the house!! The corbels are AWESOME!!! You did an awesome job on the doors!! Hope you have a GREAT weekend and chillax a bit!!
In fact, you do not need to explain or justify anything, you are doing the hugest job, you are just a hero. We look at you and understand that many of us are not even worth your little finger. Besides, you are human and you are made of meat and bones, and you need breaks and rest, time for your personal life! You are not a construction cyborg or a robot. Therefore, everything will be fine, you will repair and restore everything! Praise the Lord !!🤩🤩🤩🤗😎👍👍
So sorry about the sewer and lift. I know these setbacks are so frustrating and you're trying to keep ahead of the winter. I was watching another video and saw this pop up and headed to you because I was worried about you and your beautiful home. Don't worry about us and when you post. Take care of you and Kim and what's important to you. Sending good thoughts and prayers that solutions will come very soon.
Bummer about the pipes. I watch "1834 Restoration" and Mike is using the heat tool to remove all the paint on the woodwork in one of the rooms. He has a bit of a system in how he and Jeanie get the job done. He uses quite a bit of denatured alcohol in the clean-up. Yep, Fridays are fine to post.
Things that don't go as planned keep life interesting. This is your job and no reason the weekends shouldn't be yours. I would love a live stream. Been missing Kim. See ya on Friday 🤗❤️🤍💙
I am so sorry for the very sad loss of your grandmother from your step-father's side. I hope she didn't suffer too much toward the end. The ups (wedding) and downs (passages) of life are sure a roller-coaster. We must enjoy the good times as much as possible. Please hang tough, and truly, we don't care when the videos come out, only that we get updates when you, Kim & your dad are ready. And then we'll lap them up.
@@The2ndEmpireStrikesBack well, maybe something has changed but my mom had her entire lateral replace on her property using city funding. It’s a forgivable loan. The whole thing cost about 14000. She only paid a small portion of the total. If she moves before I think it’s 20 years it gets paid back.
Hi Caleb. I highly recommend using double keyed deadbolts on those outer doors with windows. It is easy for someone to break the glass, just reach in and turn the latch knob for the deadbolts you have now. If you use the kind you have to have a key for on both sides, it is a lot more secure and prices are not that different. I use them and hang the key out of reach of the door.
I'm so glad you wear a respirator. My dad refinished furniture and he always wore one during the whole process☺ Are you able to get any grants for historical restoration?
Uploading on Fridays is such a great idea! Then you can enjoy your weekend! I totally don't care what day you post...but I do care that you are doing what is best for your life long term. 🥰 Also, we felt your pain over a sewer pipe that failed in our 1975 house. 9 feet down, two separate pipes and a sump pump ended up needing replaced. Our yard looks abandoned now, and the damage to the carpet and laundry room floor are yet to be redone. The 7 grand it took to repair the sewer was well spent...it was so gross cleaning up the backup. Blech. We were actually hoping to do the gutters and siding repair. Lol. Now we will figure out these other things instead when we get the funds. Glad my loo works again!
I think that the mystery switch is a light switch that turns on a light when the door is opened, like a refrigerator. I have seen them on closet doors in houses built in the teens through fortys.
That "button" could have been attached to a bell to let people know when someone came in or out -- especially if that is in the old veterinary office...
My childhood home had those switches in the door frames for all the closets. They’re called refrigerator doors…it’s a light switch that allows the light to turn on when the door is open and turns off when the door is closed
The momentary switch is probably for coal delivery, so when bringing coal in for the furnace they didn't have to deal with a light switch or turn it off when leaving. Just a suggestion to replace some of the glass with laminated insulated glass depending on door thickness. Basement doors you might want to upgrade locks and hinges on basement areas, they are service doors and designed to get beaten up. For the HVAC system you running ductwork or using mini splits and augmenting it with the radiators? Did you scope any other lines under the slab to make sure you didn't have a problem there, I take it their using PVC?
No problem on changing days........as long as you keep uploading :). Claire did indeed do just an awesome job on those B-u-ti-full corbels. That baby, peeking thru the windows was oh-so-cute! Oh, check your PO box, sorry I was so late mailing your wedding gift but was glad to see your wedding pics to get a few more ideas........ it should be there now.
In my state it’s illegal to tie the downspouts into the sewer lines as it overwhelms the system, it’s also a good idea not to introduce foreign objects such as roofing granules or leaves and branches that may flush down a gutter into a vulnerable and very important and major operating system. Dump the downspouts onto the ground and allow the ground to absorb the water as well as the storm sewer.
Greetings from NC. I just watched your video with your qusetion about the door electric contact. My parents house had this type switch on the hinge side of closet doors, When the door was opened, the the plunger turned the light on in the closet and turned it off when the door was closed. That house was built in the late 1950's, and I recall that this was a new feature at that time. Enjoy seeing what you are doing with your home. It is so great to see it being "loved" again. Stan
Any chance you could use a trenchless sewer pipe lining? If you're not aware of that option, you should check it out. It is much less expensive, and there are many contractors you can hire.
I had always rented until my father left his house to me. Now I, too, am enjoying the thrills of home ownership. Having to put in a new floor, having to put in new insulated windows, having to remove trees and level land, having to replace a whole bathroom plumbing system and then finding sewage problems connecting to the City. Can't wait for the central air and heat to go, and the hot water heater to break, which with my luck will all happen at the same time. So, I can relate! I keep thinking how wonderful it will all be when it's DONE! Btu I swear there are days when I want to just sell the place and go back to an apartment.
Whatever day suits you best. It’s not a problem to your subscribers as all we want is to watch your progress week by week. Condolences to you and your family for your loss. On the bright side those corbels are beautiful and the doors are looking great. The sewage pipe is just one of those problems of renovating an old house. Unfortunately this will happen a few times but you will sort it and move on. I always push the like button as it is the only way that I can help you.
I am so very sorry for your family loss. I know things are tough right now with the house. The unexpected is expected when restoring a beauty like this. It is frustrating but it will all come together in good time. I wonder if you could hold some kind of event to rise money? Don't be discouraged. You've come a long way and you're doing an incredible job!
Sorry for your loss. The switch was probably for a bell to let folks know somebody was coming in as it was a Vet office. It probably was connected to that door bell you also showed (The strike parts inside the bell) or the bell/buzzer is connected somewhere else (follow the wire and you might find it). If this predates the vet office then it is probably a security alarm so the bell/buzzer is upstairs somewhere. That switch is a plunger type that you see in cars where the circuit is broken as long as the switch is pushed down but becomes connected when the door is opened.
that is the way life works. you get money and have plans for it and then something comes up and the money goes to that. The way I look at it is that it is a blessing that one had the money in the first place. It is good that these things come up early and be dealt with. Things will work out for you.
You may have insurance worked into your municipal water bill that covers underground lines coming from the house.Most major cities participate in a national waste water insurance policy.
Condolences to you and your family for the loss of your loved one. Yup, one bite at a time, you'll get there. This restoration is not for the faint of heart; your heart is big and solid for this place. Thanks for sharing, I will watch for you in a week. 🙂
My condolences on your grandmother; may her memory be a blessing. I don't suppose a combination of pipe-bursting and trenchless would save you some money, would it? Because both of those are much, much cheaper than full excavation. But you don't want to fuck around with sewers, and you _particularly_ don't want to fuck around with sewers leaking badly enough to make sinkholes. Glad you saw that the basement door was salvagable; I got that first look at it and was all, "oh, that's absolutely fixable if he wants to do the work" and, well, you're you. You wanted to do the work. Nice job. :D
Awe, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.❤🙏 I love watching your progress in preserving history. No worries, I don't expect anything. I'm just happy when your posts pop up. You both do beautiful work. Love from Tennessee.
I have used an infrared stripper before, and it worked incredibly well. I suppose it's ideal for items that will be painted. I have used it on oak without burning anything, but you have to be careful to heat up the surface only minimally. The good part about those pieces is that the paint is usually applied over a thick lacquer of some sort, so it bubbles up and separates from the wood really quickly.
I feel your pain. When I bought my current house, (not fancy like yours), I had to replace the septic tank which collapsed about 2 years after I moved in. $10,000 later, I had all new plumbing, but a whole lot of ugly house to live in until I could afford to continue the remodeling. It works out in the long run but is sure disappointing when you are in it.
Wow, that sucks... sorry hear it... good luck! The pleasures of owning a old home.... Your doing a great job. I look forward to seeing more progress...
I watch your videos whenever I see I'm notified. It doesn't matter when as long as I get to watch the great changes of your coolest Victorian home. Again Congratulation on you new marriage!
Interested in some of our merch? Here's the link: the-2nd-empire-strikes-back.myshopify.com
Hey Caleb, I tried to buy but the shipping system
doesn’t recognise New Zealand 🇳🇿 addresses. Is there a work around? Would love to help pay for the sewer pipe 😢
Hi Caleb, will you be releasing a zip up hoodie in black and gold? Also will you be releasing a black zip up with that machinery printed lining in the hood?
I may be able to help on two fronts. One, I have a little digger that’s perfect for tight areas if you wanted to dig and repair the damaged sections of pipe. Second, I am a mechanic and fairly good at diagnosing small machinery, no guarantees but I could look at the lift to see if i could get you back to work without an expensive service call. I’m an hour on the IL side of the river if you want a hand.
You are a wonderful person for offering your help. God bless.
J Patton: Your kindness to Caleb made ME feel better!
Your kindness is awesome - I wish I could help these folks, it's such an undertaking and I can feel his pain.
What a great person her, Caleb sounds like a good thing , we would all love to help, but don’t always have the knowledge!!
Did Caleb ever contact you?
*Kaleb, whatever day suits YOU to put out the videos is ok by me... Just do not stress about things.. as that won't help your blood pressure. My sincere condolences over the sad passing of your family member.*
I manage a large house from the 30s and they had two of those door frame switches inside the house. For this house they acted as light switches. Kinda like in a fridge, whenever you opened the door it would release the switch and turn on the light. If you closed the door, it would shut the lights off. The switches in this house were in storage/service areas so they were more practical than fumbling around in the dark for the light switch.
That was my guess :) More places should use them today, such a simple but useful mechanism!
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I was thinking the same thing! My last house was from the early 20's and also had one. In my case, it was on a door on the second floor going into what was a storage room
What an excellent idea.
Hello Caleb, I live in STL City so I am familiar with the code that has the downspouts draining into the sewer lines. Here's my suggestion: I believe you have new gutters, etc. Go around the house and photograph all the gutter work and downspouts tied into the sewer line at the base. Then remove the bottom piece and have it drain out into the yard (away from the house, of course). Then just keep on working on other things. You will be able to put off the sewer work for quite a while. Even if the inspector notices, you can show them the photos and let them know your intention is to tie the lines back in, just not immediately. I cannot image that the city inspectors would not let this slide for a year or so.
@@davebryant8050 I was just thinking that. Yeah, totally agree - stop draining rain water into sewer and see if you can hold out on the major work. Also, how about some digging and patching the existing pipe? Just temporarily. The hardest part will be the digging - and that won't be that bad.
If my downspouts emptied into my sewer lines we would be backed up all the time. Can you re-direct those?
What a good idea
@@davebryant8050 it’s illegal here in New Zealand too, was common 100 years ago though
In Queensland downpipes are run into the street. The local councils periodically do smoke testing of sewers to make sure no downpipes are connected to them.
Someone may have already mentioned this, but could the button on the door have been wired to a bell? You've said that the basement was the second owner's veterinary office, so perhaps he had the door wired to a bell so he would know when someone entered and he was in another part of the office.
Some friends of mine had a house built in the 1920s, and the closet doors had buttons like that. When you opened the door and the button was released the light came on, and when the door closed and button was pressed the light went off.
An idea that has worked for me in the past: the biggest cost in that huge $10,000 price is the digging. It is worth checking on the rental cost of a large mechanical trencher and/or mini excavator. It may be cheaper for you to dig up the pipe and have the plumbers just plumb. Some plumbers object, but most are delighted to fob off the worst of the job to the homeowner and you could save 50% to 60% (at least, that's how it worked out for me in North Carolina). God bless, and keep up the good work!
Agree, there is no way Id be paying a contractor for the sewer if I was in his shoes. Imagine how much momentum the project will gain just by seeing progress on the roof. you cant put a price on that sort of motivation sometimes.
I was thinking the same thing.
Don’t forget you can also add shrinkable poly around the windows and unused doors to save dollars on your heating bill. If uploading on Fridays work for you then it works for us. You need to have a life and if Monday impedes that then it needs to change! I hope these issues that keep creeping up stop! Cheers to you and Kim❣️
For your sewer line issue, some insurance companies have utility lines coverage. I'm not sure what's on your policy but it might be something to check out.
Sorry for your loss. Make videos when and as you can, we'll watch!
If I were wealthy I'd send you a check to cover repairing the lift and fixing the sinkhole. As it is, all I can do is encourage you to keep moving forward. What you've done already is so impressive, and we're all rooting for you!
I had to stop & tell you that I like your user name.
@@twistoffate4791 Thank you, yours is awesome too!
@@skokian1able Thank you!!
I'm rather have your videos come out on Friday rather than Monday. Make things easy on yourself.
The switch in the door jamb is quite literally called a "jamb switch." They can be used for security, but more commonly back in the day they were used to automatically turn on a light when a door opens, such as a closet, but could be other rooms as well, or a door open bell or light. You'll almost certainly have to permanently separate the stormwater drainage and sanitary sewer. In the Twin Cities, the downspouts had to be diverted and the drain pipes filled with concrete or otherwise permanently capped.
🕯️I am sorry for the loss of your grandmother.
Infrared stripper is a great tool. Usually the thicker the paint, the better it works. Bummer about the sewer line. That’s part of home moanership! Put out videos at your convenience, we watch em at ours. Condolences on the grandparent. And keep up the good work, you guys have done a lot this year.
When you have the sewer outflow pipe replaced have them install a backwater valve as well if allowed by your local code. This is a one way valve right at the house side of the outflow that will prevent storm drainage from backing up into the house. It's an absolute must if you're already doing the work!
Smart.
thats the plan
Exactly this is what most houses have.
In old houses only problem might be that is gets clogged sometimes....when the sewer line don't have good angle down the main line
@@krewetkaaaa I would put in a rodding point just before the non-return valve - on a swept Tee.
Back flow install on the 2” pipe or whatever and the connection to water meter oh yes
I really like that you are giving yourself your weekend back. I like the idea of visits on Friday, too.
Sorry about your grandma and the sewage. Great work on the doors. Attitude and perspective is half the battle. Focus on what you want and it will come to you. You happily married man. Love to both of you. ❤
I'm sorry for your loss. Love to you and your familylove to you and kim
Whenever you up load is soon enough. We're all here for you, and naturally want what's best for you. You owe us nothing, but are so generous to be sharing with total strangers. Keep being awesome.
When I was a kid there was an old fashioned drug store in the closest town, it had a switch on the door hinge size like that, when the door was open there was a buzzer that sounded, so the owner would be alerted to a customer coming in
Hello 👋 how are you doing?
You move the releases to whatever works best for you! I live in FL, so sinkholes are nothing new here, but I was surprised at first when I saw the picture…now it makes sense. I hope it gets fixed with no extra issues or $$$ than you already anticipate. So sorry for your loss, as well. Love to you, Kim and the fur kids ❤
When I lived in Florida, I bought a topographic map of the area. I was amazed at just how many sinkholes were in the region.
As groundwater is pumped out for municipalities, the limestone can't support the weight of the soil and buildings so it collapses.
It can happen anywhere at anytime down there.
I saw where my buddy's friends house went into a sinkhole. They got out just in time as they were getting ready for bed at the time it happened!
Hey there! That button IS for a security system. I grew up with one in my house. It lets a security panel know if the door is open or closed. I'd put money on 1980s or later. Keep up the good work, y'all. :)
I would suggest that it's older than 1980's by the style of the button and the wire that it's connected to.
@@freetolook3727 Could be. I said so because I've never seen it on a house older than 1970s. And that one seemed like a later edition.
That is way older. I’d bet it was added in the 1920s.
Since the door is in the basement it may have been a bell button to let the Veterinarian know if someone has come in. Caleb did show a doorbell as well. What do you all think?
@@patriciapage9950 there was a bell of sorts attached to ours, although that would bring it back to the 20s. I thought it was plastic, but that makes more sense. I probably saw wrong
Those corbels came out beautiful. She did a fantastic job. I would have thought those buttons you were wondering what they were, I would think it would have been a light switch. You are doing a great job on that old door.
Yeesh. On a Sunday, about 12 years ago, I was doing laundry while prepping for a job interview the next day. All of the sudden I heard something sloshing, and black water started coming up in our bathtub. >:( We'd had the cast iron waste lines under the house replaced, but apparently the long run to the sewer was also cast iron and had rusted away over the years. We'd wondered why the oleander plant at the end of the row looked so much greener than the rest. Roots in the sewer pipe. So we called an Emergency Rooter place because we both had to work. They came Monday, excavated a four foot deep trench out to the front fence, replaced the line, and put in a clean out, $11,000, thank you very much. Then a week later, black water in the tub again!! The company came back, it's now the section on the far side of the fence, under the sidewalk, to the inside edge of the curb, six feed deep, and another $5,000. So frustrating to shell out that much over something you can't even see. It sucks! You definitely have my sympathy. This is why this community is worth so much. Hang in there!
Look into pipe bursting, they just dig a hole at each end and pull the new sewer line through, bursting through the old line, it works great and is much cheaper.
Good idea. I'll check into that.
I’ve never heard of that, but it sounds perfect!
@@The2ndEmpireStrikesBack contact your local wastewater collection system maintenance manager, they might be able give you a few contractors that do it. My city did bursting almost exclusively when they replaced the sewer lines.
I never cease to be amazed by how well you handle the stress of this massive, elephantine project. Prayers for your creative solutions to come!!
I feel like it’s kind of a stroke of luck that the lift was out and you couldn’t get started on your roof. Now you still had the money you need to put into the sewer line. It sucks, still, but things could have been worse.
“One bite at a time”. I like that. Hey, new merch idea!
That door bell looking thing in the door frame, looks to me like an vintage door buzzer.
Those buzzers were often hooked up at the homes delivery door and wired to the servants quarters to let them know that a delivery was dropped off, like milk, meat eggs, packages, etc. Back in the day, back doors or side doors were often left unlocked during the day so these deliveries could be made quick. The door would buzz and the servant would quickly go fetch the delivery. No deliveries were made at the front door.
Hello how are you doing?
Friday is a great day to release new videos! I was very excited to see you tonight. I’m sorry you have to deal with sewers! That is a serious hassle but you REALLY can’t let that go! Ugh! The good news is you have most of the parts for your roof! Have a great weekend and we’ll see you next Friday!🌸
Hi 👋how are you doing?
OH NO! So sad for you, Caleb. Hope you and Kim have a great weekend working on the house and have time to relax together.
Caleb, I think this could have been a buzzer system on the door. We used to have one something like this on an old house we had. It was to let Daddy know a customer had come into the store so he could attend the customer. Daddy was in very poor health and needed to rest a lot. He could lay down in between customers while our house was attached to the store. The buzzer went off when the doo to the store was opened and Daddy would go to the store. When you buy old houses, everything hits at once sometimes and you have to make the best choices you can at the time you have to make them. It sucks! My hubby and I have been there a few times. The thing is, it always works out. It may not work out the way you planned, the way you wanted or thought it would, but it does work out. Best of luck and best wishes, I know it it's hard but Caleb, if it were easy, it wouldn't be worth doing. You and Kim are smart, young, and energetic. You will be fine. I have every confidence that this place will be a wonderful monument to Brown that you will be busting your buttons over before too long.
I'm an artist ; these homes are wayyyyyy more important than painting masterpieces! Because, there are ....FUNCTIONAL art, and history! I applause this man. When I can I will donate. He is so good at this. Wow.
Thinking of you and your family. May the memory of your grandmother be a blessing
Love the replacement corbel. The maker is fabulous!! What a great resource!
I’m so sorry for the setback. However you always have such a positive attitude and you’ll get through this
Aw, man. I am sorry about the pipe Caleb. That is a tough situation. I think these unexpected crisis' are somewhat the norm for home owners of older homes but, regardless I am sorry that you were hit with this curve ball when you are making significant progress and the building is starting to look like it should. Hang in there man and I hope a resolution to your problem presents itself soon.
All my best to you and the family man.
Pete
Hollister,Ca
My condolences for your loss. Prayers for you and family. About that switch. It's connected to a light switch for electrical. It's an old version from the 30s or 40s. Used as a security feature since it's located in the basement door and was dark under the old stairs, it would (as a pressure button) immediately light the room as the door was opened. Modern versions can be bought at hardware stores or online at Amazon.
So sorry for your loss. Sending big love to you and family.
Put a piece of insulation between the plywood panel and the door that you working on . Remove the insulation come spring.
Caleb, sooooooo sorry for your loss. May she Rest In Eternal Peace!!!! Looks like you've been a VERY BUSY MAN!!!! I know, BIG SURPRISE!!!! You do your Videos any way you choose. You will ALWAYS HAVE AN AUDIENCE!!!!
Caleb if Friday works better for you then it definitely works better for us. Just because we love your content doesn’t mean you can’t have a life 😊. Love to you and Kim.
As a resident at a 1930s st Louis house, we have definitely had issues with water backing up and building in the basement, and issues with the old clay sewer pipes.
If not already Change the pipes in basement and have overflow drain ! and waterproof basement. Your stripper should be able to let it sit for about 1 -1/2 2 hours and Should scarp it Right off easy real clean
Kaleb it’s great to see your content ,please don’t burn yourself out we want to see yourself and Kim for a long time.Take care of each other and enjoy life.👍
As to the switch in the basement door frame, my best guess is that when the vet had a clinic there and a customer entered it would ring a bell to alert them to that. This sort of thing is very common even now in situations where the staff might not be up front to greet customers in a small "mom & pop" type shop, but in another location working.
Sorry about the sewer line glitch. Ouch!
Caleb, I feel your impatience with the roof project but the sewer line is definitely the priority - having that stuff backing up into the basement is a health hazard. Take a breath and remind yourself that everything happens for a reason even if we don’t know what that is. The roof project will get done when the time is right and there are lots of other things that need doing in the meantime.❤
It's so zen to watch you fix your door!
Hi Kaleb,
I’ll be here to watch you whenever you can make videos. I can just imagine how simply busy you are. Your work is beautiful. And last but not least, sorry for your loss.
Hello 👋how are you doing?
Hello 👋how are you doing?
sorry for your loss. I wish you both lots of love!
I am sorry for your loss. No worries on the videos, do them when you can. I wish I could send you the money for all the things you need to fix but do only what you can. Thank you for sharing and God Bless. The wedding pictures are fantastic. Love them.
Amazing people doing what you can, life is not perfect and trying to be perfect is not healthy. So stay healthy and please always remember you are apparently and you are "awesome"
Take care of your health! This channel is a gem and I'd much rather know you and Kim are okay than have more content at your expense.
This kind of disclosure is brilliant, and I appreciate how realistic y'all keep this project by including these setbacks in your story.
You keep finding impressive things to add to your gorgeous home and I hope this repair/preservation continues to progress as you wish it to. I can't stop watching this channel.
When I'm depressed I look back over these videos for hope and they do so much to lift my spirits. You two are doing something I can only currently dream of doing someday and I admire your impressive efforts. Take care of yourself, I'll send your merch link to my friends! Thanks for the update!
As a short term fix would you be able to just sign up and repair the two collapsed areas? I know the whole line will eventually have to be replaced and perhaps it is just as costly to do two small repairs as opposed to the whole line. In my city they are starting to require gutter and any other untainted water be separated from sewage lines. The clear water is sent straight to the river and sewage goes to treatment plants. A little at a time all of the old combined sewage/clear drains are being separated. My home is on a corner and before the two were separated on a hot day standing on the corner would make someone gag from the smell coming up from the street drain. Happily my part of town now has separate lines for sewage and clear. But I know for a city the size of St. Louis that change over will take many years and a lot of money.
And like your other fans, so sorry for the pain of your family's loss.
Sending my condolences on the passing of your Grandmother. A wedding, a funeral and now a sinkhole...you have your hands full, my friend. I'm happy that you're finding a better work/life balance. Whenever you have time to film and post, we'll be here to watch. As always, wishing you and both of your beautiful ladies nothing but the best. BTW, every time I see her I call her Margaret in my head (the house, not Kim!)
Stl city has a sewer lateral program that covers those types of repairs. The city pays in full for repairs. The application and instructions are on the city’s website
OMG... those finished windows look beeeautiful.
Friday videos are GOOD!!! You need to have a life and some down-time from ALL the work you do on the house!! The corbels are AWESOME!!! You did an awesome job on the doors!! Hope you have a GREAT weekend and chillax a bit!!
In fact, you do not need to explain or justify anything, you are doing the hugest job, you are just a hero. We look at you and understand that many of us are not even worth your little finger.
Besides, you are human and you are made of meat and bones, and you need breaks and rest, time for your personal life! You are not a construction cyborg or a robot. Therefore, everything will be fine, you will repair and restore everything! Praise the Lord !!🤩🤩🤩🤗😎👍👍
"You are not a construction cyborg or a robot" = I love the way you put it, lol.
So sorry about the sewer and lift. I know these setbacks are so frustrating and you're trying to keep ahead of the winter. I was watching another video and saw this pop up and headed to you because I was worried about you and your beautiful home. Don't worry about us and when you post. Take care of you and Kim and what's important to you. Sending good thoughts and prayers that solutions will come very soon.
Hello how are you doing?
Make sure to spend time with your new Bride it’s those Memories that will get you both though the hard times .💕
Bummer about the pipes. I watch "1834 Restoration" and Mike is using the heat tool to remove all the paint on the woodwork in one of the rooms. He has a bit of a system in how he and Jeanie get the job done. He uses quite a bit of denatured alcohol in the clean-up. Yep, Fridays are fine to post.
Things that don't go as planned keep life interesting. This is your job and no reason the weekends shouldn't be yours. I would love a live stream. Been missing Kim. See ya on Friday 🤗❤️🤍💙
I am so sorry for the very sad loss of your grandmother from your step-father's side. I hope she didn't suffer too much toward the end. The ups (wedding) and downs (passages) of life are sure a roller-coaster. We must enjoy the good times as much as possible. Please hang tough, and truly, we don't care when the videos come out, only that we get updates when you, Kim & your dad are ready. And then we'll lap them up.
STL city has a sewer lateral replacement program you may want to look into if you haven’t already
the 2 cave ins are on our private property which are not covered
@@The2ndEmpireStrikesBack well, maybe something has changed but my mom had her entire lateral replace on her property using city funding. It’s a forgivable loan. The whole thing cost about 14000. She only paid a small portion of the total. If she moves before I think it’s 20 years it gets paid back.
Hi Caleb. I highly recommend using double keyed deadbolts on those outer doors with windows. It is easy for someone to break the glass, just reach in and turn the latch knob for the deadbolts you have now. If you use the kind you have to have a key for on both sides, it is a lot more secure and prices are not that different. I use them and hang the key out of reach of the door.
“Rob from Paul to pay to Peter,” the fun never ends, in life. God bless you both.
I'm so glad you wear a respirator. My dad refinished furniture and he always wore one during the whole process☺
Are you able to get any grants for historical restoration?
The corbel is beautiful! Sorry about the death in the family.
Uploading on Fridays is such a great idea! Then you can enjoy your weekend! I totally don't care what day you post...but I do care that you are doing what is best for your life long term. 🥰 Also, we felt your pain over a sewer pipe that failed in our 1975 house. 9 feet down, two separate pipes and a sump pump ended up needing replaced. Our yard looks abandoned now, and the damage to the carpet and laundry room floor are yet to be redone. The 7 grand it took to repair the sewer was well spent...it was so gross cleaning up the backup. Blech. We were actually hoping to do the gutters and siding repair. Lol. Now we will figure out these other things instead when we get the funds. Glad my loo works again!
So sorry for your loss
I think that the mystery switch is a light switch that turns on a light when the door is opened, like a refrigerator. I have seen them on closet doors in houses built in the teens through fortys.
That "button" could have been attached to a bell to let people know when someone came in or out -- especially if that is in the old veterinary office...
My childhood home had those switches in the door frames for all the closets. They’re called refrigerator doors…it’s a light switch that allows the light to turn on when the door is open and turns off when the door is closed
The momentary switch is probably for coal delivery, so when bringing coal in for the furnace they didn't have to deal with a light switch or turn it off when leaving. Just a suggestion to replace some of the glass with laminated insulated glass depending on door thickness. Basement doors you might want to upgrade locks and hinges on basement areas, they are service doors and designed to get beaten up. For the HVAC system you running ductwork or using mini splits and augmenting it with the radiators? Did you scope any other lines under the slab to make sure you didn't have a problem there, I take it their using PVC?
No problem on changing days........as long as you keep uploading :). Claire did indeed do just an awesome job on those B-u-ti-full corbels. That baby, peeking thru the windows was oh-so-cute! Oh, check your PO box, sorry I was so late mailing your wedding gift but was glad to see your wedding pics to get a few more ideas........ it should be there now.
In my state it’s illegal to tie the downspouts into the sewer lines as it overwhelms the system, it’s also a good idea not to introduce foreign objects such as roofing granules or leaves and branches that may flush down a gutter into a vulnerable and very important and major operating system. Dump the downspouts onto the ground and allow the ground to absorb the water as well as the storm sewer.
Greetings from NC. I just watched your video with your qusetion about the door electric contact. My parents house had this type switch on the hinge side of closet doors, When the door was opened, the the plunger turned the light on in the closet and turned it off when the door was closed. That house was built in the late 1950's, and I recall that this was a new feature at that time. Enjoy seeing what you are doing with your home. It is so great to see it being "loved" again. Stan
Any chance you could use a trenchless sewer pipe lining? If you're not aware of that option, you should check it out. It is much less expensive, and there are many contractors you can hire.
I had always rented until my father left his house to me. Now I, too, am enjoying the thrills of home ownership. Having to put in a new floor, having to put in new insulated windows, having to remove trees and level land, having to replace a whole bathroom plumbing system and then finding sewage problems connecting to the City. Can't wait for the central air and heat to go, and the hot water heater to break, which with my luck will all happen at the same time. So, I can relate! I keep thinking how wonderful it will all be when it's DONE! Btu I swear there are days when I want to just sell the place and go back to an apartment.
The door cleaned up beautifully.
Whatever day suits you best. It’s not a problem to your subscribers as all we want is to watch your progress week by week. Condolences to you and your family for your loss. On the bright side those corbels are beautiful and the doors are looking great. The sewage pipe is just one of those problems of renovating an old house. Unfortunately this will happen a few times but you will sort it and move on. I always push the like button as it is the only way that I can help you.
I am so very sorry for your family loss. I know things are tough right now with the house. The unexpected is expected when restoring a beauty like this. It is frustrating but it will all come together in good time. I wonder if you could hold some kind of event to rise money? Don't be discouraged. You've come a long way and you're doing an incredible job!
Sorry for your loss. The switch was probably for a bell to let folks know somebody was coming in as it was a Vet office. It probably was connected to that door bell you also showed (The strike parts inside the bell) or the bell/buzzer is connected somewhere else (follow the wire and you might find it). If this predates the vet office then it is probably a security alarm so the bell/buzzer is upstairs somewhere. That switch is a plunger type that you see in cars where the circuit is broken as long as the switch is pushed down but becomes connected when the door is opened.
that is the way life works. you get money and have plans for it and then something comes up and the money goes to that. The way I look at it is that it is a blessing that one had the money in the first place. It is good that these things come up early and be dealt with. Things will work out for you.
You may have insurance worked into your municipal water bill that covers underground lines coming from the house.Most major cities participate in a national waste water insurance policy.
not this one. we are responsible for replacement until it hits the alley and connects with the main
Condolences to you and your family for the loss of your loved one. Yup, one bite at a time, you'll get there. This restoration is not for the faint of heart; your heart is big and solid for this place. Thanks for sharing, I will watch for you in a week. 🙂
Sorry for your loss, Caleb. Don't worry about making changes to suit your life, I'm sure we'll all cope. 🙂Thanks for sharing.
My condolences on your grandmother; may her memory be a blessing.
I don't suppose a combination of pipe-bursting and trenchless would save you some money, would it? Because both of those are much, much cheaper than full excavation.
But you don't want to fuck around with sewers, and you _particularly_ don't want to fuck around with sewers leaking badly enough to make sinkholes.
Glad you saw that the basement door was salvagable; I got that first look at it and was all, "oh, that's absolutely fixable if he wants to do the work" and, well, you're you. You wanted to do the work. Nice job. :D
I love the change to Friday. I am looking forward to future episodes.
I look forward to you video no matter what you do what is healthy for you and Kim without feeling guilty. Mental health and family are important.
Claire! You're a rock star! Amazing work!
Awe, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.❤🙏 I love watching your progress in preserving history. No worries, I don't expect anything. I'm just happy when your posts pop up. You both do beautiful work. Love from Tennessee.
You’re a true artist, thank you for the fantastic work you put in to everything that you do. Cheers from Wales, UK
I have used an infrared stripper before, and it worked incredibly well. I suppose it's ideal for items that will be painted. I have used it on oak without burning anything, but you have to be careful to heat up the surface only minimally. The good part about those pieces is that the paint is usually applied over a thick lacquer of some sort, so it bubbles up and separates from the wood really quickly.
I’m sorry for your loss. You’re in our prayers The Manick Family
I feel your pain. When I bought my current house, (not fancy like yours), I had to replace the septic tank which collapsed about 2 years after I moved in. $10,000 later, I had all new plumbing, but a whole lot of ugly house to live in until I could afford to continue the remodeling. It works out in the long run but is sure disappointing when you are in it.
Is that door near the vet clinic? Maybe it was hooked to a bell or buzzer of some sort upstairs to alert him when a client entered.
Wow, that sucks... sorry hear it... good luck! The pleasures of owning a old home.... Your doing a great job. I look forward to seeing more progress...
Sorta fun to watch someone removing the layer on top of layer of paint. I am glad no one recorded my language when I was doing it.
I watch your videos whenever I see I'm notified. It doesn't matter when as long as I get to watch the great changes of your coolest Victorian home. Again Congratulation on you new marriage!