As I watch this build and hear your commentary, I think about how much I like to do the work. I spent fifteen years as a general contractor, working mostly in residential construction. From remodels to new homes. At that time, I worked by myself with few employees or no employees. I couldn't seem to be satisfied with anyone else's work performance or work ethics. The problem with working by yourself is the background items. No vacation time. You could not take off if you were busy and you could not take off if you had no work. Also no medical coverage and no retirement plan. What a Delima. So, purely by accident, a friend told me there was an opening for a Building Inspector position. I spent the next twenty years still in the construction trade, but more in the quality control area. Only after I retired and had time to do upgrade and repair projects on my own and friends' homes did I remember how much I really liked doing the work. Now at 77, I really like watching the TH-cam channels, like yours, to see someone else who really enjoys doing the work. At my age, I'm not totally done, I still do small projects that interest me, or build something for the grandkids or neighborhood kids. Sometimes even for their parents. Thanks for the great channel!
A carpenter who recites Robert Frost poems! Man I get so much out of watching your TH-cam videos it’s really changed my attitude towards working and being a man and how to treat other people …. it’s such a blessing I really appreciate what you do and Sharing your thoughts and your wisdom with the rest of us buddy….God bless you
I've no idea how I end up watching such videos, as I'm about as incapable of building something as a dog might be, but I still find them oddly satisfying. Perhaps it's my appreciation of the smart, talented, and hardworking people and how they create the many things I tend to take for granted. I'm too soft for such jobs, after trying my hand at roofing and landscaping after the military. I've always had respect and appreciation for carpenters, roofers, masons, electricians, plumbers, mechanics, and other occupations where people create, modify, and repair things.
"Find the satisfaction that is inherent in the work itself..." A prescription for happiness in most any endeavor. Thank you for sharing this marvelous bit of wisdom, Mr. Wadsworth.
My wife was listening to the end of this episode as I watched it and commented on your closing narration. She said, “Oh, wow, that was poetic, I understand why you like this guy......”. I never have to apologize for being late to breakfast on a Saturday morning if I’m finishing an EC episode.
A message to all the younger Wadsworth family members : Spend as much time as you can with this man, for that alone will treble your education for free. At this time you might not enjoy it, it may well seem boring, not nearly as much fun as your friends and video games and a myriad of other reasons. But trust me, you will look back in life very very often and be grateful that you spent time with "The Old Man" (so called with the utmost respect to Scott). Be well. Be safe. Be all you can.
Not only are you a master of your trade, you do a great job of shooting excellent video content. It's always bright, clear, in focus, good sound, and not shaking. As you always say, "Keep up the good work!".
He is very knowledgeable but the 19.2 layout is ridiculous. $148 could have been made up by not making this video. Overbuild floor systems. Other places to save money.
As a carpenter I can say this is probably one of the most well-built Projects I have ever seen and I’ve seen a lot, I’ve always given 110% to anything I built and the satisfaction of walking away and saying it couldn’t of been done any better is basically all you need to look back on your accomplishments and say you did your best at all times, if more people put the effort in to do their best it would be a better world. And not just carpentry in all areas of our lives🎃
I've been doing home renos for 30 yrs now , and I can tell you for certain , that the almost rare ( and certainly getting rarer ) times I got to work in a house/home that was built by somebody like you , was very appreciated. One that was built plumb and true , and meant to last , by someone who obviously takes pride in their work and their profession . This was the first ( but certainly not last ) video of yours's , that I've watched , and it didn't take long to see that you are one of those people. Of the many things I do , tiling is one that will very quickly find walls and floors that are out of square , and its those last tiles that go to wall( or floor ) corners , that are the biggest pain in the butt to measure, mark and cut , because the framer didn't care , or know what a centered bubble looks like . Your daughter will Proudly tell all , that , My Dad built it . Another dying art that you showed , was simple common sense. Your narration at the end , was very true , and on these few blessed days , one gets that inner peace that makes all the " other " days , well .... the other days . Thank you kindly sir . Bob from Calgary
I like to think that's why he named his channel "The Essential Craftsman" because he certainly is one of those (now rare) craftsmen that is sharing his knowledge of all the tips and tricks that he picked up through the years in order to take pride in his work. It takes many baby steps to get up to that point of taking pride in one's work. I bet you have stumbled across many old construction houses (you have) that were just slapped together, even some 80 - 100 year old houses that were built mediocre at best and I'm a sucker for really old, sturdy houses, no dis. It's always been hit or miss from house to house, just not as prevalent back then. Obviously, there were always the framers who didn't care and all they know is "fast". Even 100+ years ago, there were very few outliers that didn't take pride in their work, but, IMO, what made the shotty builders more prevalent over the years was the introduction of power tools (unintentionally) bringing more shotty builders into fruition. That's where EC comes in. To show us and many others going into a skilled trade that, "slow is smooth and smooth is fast" and that one doesn't have to feel the need to cut corners and take shortcuts because I'm sure that's not what the inventor of the Skilsaw intended, for example. The same could even be said with the creator of the Stanley tape; didn't intend to create a doorway for the hacks to enter through. I'm taking it to the extreme with examples now. Lol. You get the gist of where I'm coming from, I hope. 😉
Lucky me, I am my own draftsman and builder and I can design things because I’m also an engineer without using all that crazy useless Simpson hardware (in earthquake zone 3). Simpson is the enemy of sound design and economical construction. Ordinary houses can and should be built with zero Simpson hardware. Foundation can and should be attached with anchor bolts but if you want extra work you can put in those goddamn Simpson straps. In hurricane areas if you do conventional stick built roof framing or trusses, you should use Hurricane ties. So there are exceptions, but you can also build a roof without that stuff using better design and lag bolts. Any real Carpenter that is an old timer, got to hate Simpson…. Over design is not good design.
@@steveperreira5850 Couldn't disagree with you more. Vancouver section of Kolbie Japan survived the best during their drastic earthquake years ago. Two by stick framing and Simpson earth quake engineering. Stucco is great in earth quakes as well because it absorbs and distributes the energy.
I've spent 23 years now in the electrical trades. Owned my business now for 13 years now, man how the years have flown by. I've always been one to notice and point out good craftsmanship when I see it it is deserved. This craftsman takes the cake. I still get a great deal of enjoyment out of the construction industry and even when those days/years are rough on me, I know I'm in the right industry. Watching these videos makes me want to further my skills and become a GC.
Thank you Scott (and team) for not only sharing your experience but your gift of communication and the high production camera work. Even after my 25 years as a carpenter, I still learn new things from you.
Thank you, you are a gentleman and a scholar, along with being an inspiration. I’m the go to guy for a general contractor. We mostly do framing with a little bit of everything else. I’m Almost forty and have only been actively working in the field about 7 years and you are my most used reference for everything and anything I am not knowledgeable in. I am trying my best to support my disabled wife by myself. Thank you for the encouragement and down to earth facts. Thank you sir! God bless you and yours!
Scott’s work processes really are impressive. Throughout the years he’s developed a system that allows him to not only work all by himself but it’s also more efficient and less physically demanding on his body. Very few people that work in the trades are the complete package. Kudos Scott!!!
As someone who is within a few months of being the same age, OLD is not the right word for what we are. Very well experienced is probably better. Work smart, work easy means the job is not as demanding as it appears to be.
Im really enjoying this build, especially listening to your snippets of wisdom whilst you work. Watching someone sit talking can be tedious, listening to them whilst they work is heaven!
I don’t know what it is about this channel but no matter how tired or unmotivated I feel before watching a video I’m charged and ready to get something done after watching one, plus a little wiser too. Thank You!!
I am sure that I speak for multitudes when I say that you are a blessing and we love your videos. It seems you didn’t miss your calling in building - or teaching… and ditto for your son and all involved in the production of these videos. I’d bet that many folks wish they had a dad like you (seem to be)… and how many more wish they could find a carpenter (or teacher - in any trade) - even a little more - like yourself. Many Kudos on never wasting 1 minute of anyone’s time with your vast library of timeless and priceless videos. God bless you, sir! P.S… I, too, share the dual thorns in the side with you of both Obstructive and Central Sleep Apnea, along with many other maladies, eternally clogged sinuses, restrictive pulmonary disease & C.O.P.D. - just to name a few… but I don’t understand how you are able to be so active and appear so healthy. I am glad and grateful for you, nonetheless. I would rather be dead, though, than tape my mouth shut like you do… sends me into panic mode just thinking about it!! If you do ever decide to give your BPAP another try… do it with a grain of salt - as far as what the doctors tell you… I doubt most of these so-called doctors have ever tried living with the life sentence of wearing the stupid mask every night but I’ve worn it for over 11 years every single night as it’s literal life support when I lay down - but I usually leave the mask a bit loose as it helps me to not feel suffocated - especially at the onset every night. Do I still hate it? You bet! Could I live without it? Not a chance…. I will say this one last thing, though, for what it’s worth… to help ward off the inevitable state of panic that ensues on occasion when I cannot breathe - a cough drop for moistening & a switch & bait plan for relaxation… For the last year I’ve been listening to Lum and Abner as I put on my mask & drift off to sleep… whatever works to retrain your attention & - again - ward off an indescribably uncomfortable panic due to lack of air - or - even a sensation of insufficient air. Sorry if my comment was too long but I really wanted to share this with you. Lord bless, Mike in 78624
Every day is a gift…and the ‘satisfaction’ comes from doing something nice for someone who appreciates what you’re doing for them…and loves you. God bless…
I am a beginner to woodwork, the main test I have with this bundle th-cam.com/users/postUgkxTNB_zFBSnTo_O1PqfVUwgi7ityw0JlKt is that I think that its hard to settle on a choice of the plan and outline to use as there are a large portion of them there. Nonetheless, I like the simple stride to step directions laid out there.
While I may never employ the skills I learn by watching your videos, I am comforted that someone somewhere is watching and learning in order to apply the knowledge to create structures of wood and care.
Brother, I have to say, as a fellow builder I love your channel. But even more so as a young man who didn't really grow up with the most positive or present male role models. I'm deeply thankful that you put in the initial effort to learn the skills that you share. I work for myself and have learned a truly priceless amount of information from your videos. Keep up the good work, and I look forward to being further taught and inspired by you!
Your channel is therapeutic to me. I’m the reviewing engineer for the City of Salem building department, and I’m so glad there are good men out there doing quality work. All the best, Ryan McGraw, PE, SE
You sir are a really fine craftsman, I couldn’t think of anyone else I’d rather have to build something for me. Your daughter and son-in-law are blessed to have you as you are to have them. That’s family ❤
@@737smartin everybody should strive for excellence in life. What type of man Essential Craftsman has become over his lifetime is what all men should strive to become as well. To think that he's setting the bar "unreasonably high" is a terrible mindset, instead he's setting the bar for most men to become a success in their own lives and take pride in what you do.
Work, all by itself, is a virtue. Carpentry is an orderly aggregation of properly applied processes. As a retired (not by choice) carpenter (30+ yrs) and building inspector (9 yrs), I miss the work, because I learned what good it has done for me. Working, as you have demonstrated in this video, can show you who you are as a person. With the right attitude and work ethic, one can develop attributes that can be of great benefit to your fellow man, to society, and not least to your family. I'm ready to start binge-watching your channel, as I think it will remind me, or confirm within me, many of the things I have learned. With gratitude, Scott.
This man is a BEAST (in a good way). Love watching him, Mentor his grandsons to be Builders. Hope the boys always remember the treasure they have in their grandpa 🤓
Preach brother. I find it so ironic. People work harder at getting out of work to do nothing and “enjoy life”. Not realizing that life is lived in the work we do. Love your channel keep it up. 👍🏼🇺🇸
Thank you for the video. I always enjoyed carpentry, framing and all around remodel work with my father. He passed away about three weeks ago. He taught me a lot and we always had a good time working together.
I love all of your little tricks. It really is amazing what one person can do with some clever techniques. Also, it worth noting that you're the reason I started wearing suspenders - best wardrobe upgrade I ever made. No more stopping work to pull my pants back up!
I don’t think I’d be here without the soft commentary and uncommon decency of striving for perfection. My OCD never kicks in while watching you. Everything you do I’m amazed. I’ve been watching couple years now and never commented. I run cranes for a living. Mostly larger cranes doing bridge beams, large rooftop AC units, and so on. However once in a while I take a smaller crane and do residential construction and it’s almost always chaos. Little managerial behavior on site. Measure seems merely a suggestion to some folk. As if, “we wanted 5/8 but 3/4 is okay too. Your videos are opposite. They bring me peace, relief, and joy. Thank you
This man is a National Treasure, a true Master of his craft and just a beautiful human being, if we had a few more of his kind in the world then it would be a far better place. We salute you sir.
Preach it, Rev. Carpentry and philosophy and poetry. I'm a retired English teacher who also had a Pinewood Derby Workshop on a bus for a few years. Your videos just sing. Thanks.
I'm with you 100% about 16 inch spacing. I prefer it in roofing, too. "Liquid Nails" has the problem of skinning over before you can lay the sheet down on it for nailing. You remind me of when I was 9 years old, watching one tiny old slow-moving man build 2 houses by himself, cutting all his boards with a handsaw.
19.2" O.C. spacing doesn't bother me at all, but when floor tile is involved, I think twice. Even with 16" O.C. spacing on floor joists you need to realize that the National Tile Contractors Association specifies less deflection than all the residential building codes, so pay attention to span tables. My last house had broken floor tile laid over undersized 9.5" TJI's when they first came out. I could feel my 12 lb. poodle trot across the floor even when I was in a different room. New energy code requirements to put the entire heat system within the conditioned envelope sure works a lot easier with 19.2" spacing with tall joists. I'm finally building a home for myself this time and I'm using 14" I-joists 19.2" O.C., and 16" O.C. where spans were greater. I saw 8" O.C. in one new construction home, and I pitied the plumber and electrician!!
My first foreman was similar to this guy, learned something every time he would talk or just observing how he did things. Forever grateful for what he taught me.
Beautiful work brother. I believe that in our time of engineered lumber; ballon framing is about to see a massive resurgence. I saw your fire blocking, but don’t forget to point it out for the audience we want to teach. Great work brother.
Robert Frost quote was fantastic! Also great - using those bent nails to hang the 6’2” boards so you could toe nails them up. Just genius pro tip and sign of a seasoned pro!
Scott, you always close each episode with the phrase "Thank you for watching Essential Craftsman". And I would like to respond to each and every episode with "Scott and Nate, Thank You for MAKING Essential Craftsman. And keep up the good work!".
The woods are lovely, dark and deep, But Scott has promises to keep, And miles to go before he sleeps.....MILES to go before he sleeps! As usual love the old your school wisdom, tricks, and mastery of your craft/narration. It is indeed something that is rare to come by these days. I wonder why I just can't help myself but to keep coming back for more!
Yes, Sir. I have the privilege of helping my youngest son build a cabin on 120 acres. The joy of working next to him and sharing skills is immeasurable. Thank you for sharing your expertise.
I've used a Ramset driver quite a bit. I've had success driving the nail with a hammer until it contacts the concrete then finishing with the powder activated tool. Most of the time I just needed one charge to drive the nail completely. It takes energy to even drive the nail through the wood. Love the build Scott!
Hey Scott. I have been watching your videos for years and have enjoyed them. I have a few years on you but am still pounding nails. No, I can't work 8 hours a day 5 days a week It's more like 5 or 6 hours a day and I pick the work. Last summer I spent 16 days in the hospital and 3 months out of work and it was then that I realized how much I missed it. In January I have to have cataracts removed from both eyes and maybe in February having vascular surgery from 3 arteries in my neck. I am not looking forward to being forced out of work for the recuperation. I'm in Maine so I won't mind being stuck in the house for a while in the of winter. For any of you young people watching, don't smoke, if you drink be careful it can do bad things without you realizing it, and don't jump off truck tailgates or anything else mor than a couple feet off the ground.
I've had great appreciation for Frost's work since high school back in the '60s. It is wonderful to connect with others who understand and revel in the satisfaction of a job well done. p.s. - I'm still waiting for "Keep Up the Good Work" merchandise!
I find a lot of peace wood working. There’s also a sense of pride and accomplishment completing work that will last beyond our lifetime. Instead of oil paints upon a piece of canvas, it’s lumber which people will reside and shelter from weather. Your attention to details is most admirable sir. Thank you kindly for giving your lessons and the best students are the ones that will seek to learn from you.
I was enjoying a cup of tea in the sun today and realised how much of what was around me I'd designed and built. I've been making things around my home for the last ten years and was never really conscious of the whole, just each small task. I've pretty much enjoyed each task (I think!) but to enjoy the whole setup is a real pleasure.
So nice to see another contractor that truly cares and treats every job like it was his own house. I’ve been a gc doing mainly flooring for 10+years and have always taken the time to do things the right way, and alone. I genuinely enjoy the work, although very hard work, and love the fact that people invite me into their home to improve their life. Can’t find anyone else that will do the job like it was their own home and have no situations where “good enough” flies. Thank you for sharing I have learned so much from your videos. Looking forward to building my own house within the next few years. Might take me months longer than hiring out but I can rest assured that nobody could have built my house at a better quality than I would do myself ❤️ God is so good hope you have a good day!
"A man is entitled to his work and nothing else". I am not sure who wrote this but after I got my head around it, it rang true. We all need work. Not for money alone, but for well-being. We appreciate the great tips. I am about to build a hunting cabin with my son and I may be solo for a few days so, I can see some of these tricks coming in handy.
I always feel nervous using screws to carry loads. I might have notched in that rim joist he countersunk those screws into. Engineers say it's fine, and I know it is, but what if it isn't?
0:22 That concrete floor is museum quality workmanship! I was distracted by that floor so much so that I didn't hear a word you said and had to pause to just admire it and then start watching the video again.
I absolutely love your channel, your content, and your ability to demonstrate a professional view of real life trades at its best outcomes through hard work and no "drama". This particular vid along with your commentary ranks among the best you have produced... and that my friend is saying a lot as you have produced great content. Thank you so much!
Thank you so much for the reference to the Robert Frost poem (Two Tramps in Mud Time). I have never been exposed to it and the minute your video finished I backed up to get the title firmly planted in my mind and found the entire poem. I would write more but comments that are too long never get read, just know that it applies so much to my entire work in the trades and especially in one project of helping my son with his 24/7/365 cabin on the side of a mountain in Montana. Thank you, I will read it often and share it with my son.
Thank you for your time. I am an ex carpenter my self and appreciate your skill of the trade and your devotion to do your very best for the client and produce a building for people to enjoy for generations. I transitioned from the trade to farming a few decades ago now but I'm grateful that I have had the opportunity to have a career path that has been a valuable contribution to individual people, the community and the country as a whole. That is much more rewarding than the short term monetary gain. You should be proud of your contribution and your ability to do manual work at your age.
Love the nail on the end of the joist trick, so simple. I can't believe, after all these years, I still haven't bought a burke bar. There's a place, sort of nearby, that sells them. I need to get it on my list. Thanks for the Robert Frost bit at the end.
I was a builder for nigh on 50 years, now 76, and I put many apprentice carpenters through their time and my constant advice to them was don’t just do the job but do the job and do it properly a characteristic sadly missing in young contractors theses days. Building is such a satisfying occupation when you can stand back and look at the finished product and say ‘I built that’ and walk away and ‘close the gate’ secure in the knowledge that there will be no comebacks. Well done son. I am impressed. There’s something about the white hair that says quality.😊
So, the countersunk GRK screws hold up one half the ledger board thickness. Why not use longer GRKs for proper strength and less work? Or did I miss something?
Oh my goodness,loved it. I’ve been a carpenter for a long time I use a lot of tricks to work efficiently alone and still learned a few things watching you. I love your calmness and your zenness as you move along. I operate in the same manner but you take it to another level . I find myself now taking more precautions to fight against dust and noise to protect myself .keep up the good work my friend.
Around here, we mark and nail one side of the hangers before we hang the rimboard on the ground. Then you already have youre shelf righ there. Put in the joist & nail the other side of the hangers. Or just nail both sides of the hangers before hand en just put em in & nail the sides. Goes way faster and you dont need to nail above yoyre head.
That works if you don't care about squeaks and such. Dimensional lumber is too inconsistent in size to do that, especially on your daughter's house. Or if you don't care about callbacks. Some people don't want to build to the "good enough"' standard. YMMV
@@bestbuilder1st i just dont see the difference i you only nail the left side of the hanger (right side not , stays loose) hang up the rim , put in a dot of glue on every hanger if you like. Put in the beams (by yourself, no need for a shelf nailed on the bottem , hanger already in place). And only then put the right side tight to the beam and nail off without any wiggle room. Boom quick and easy on your back. also around here we nail the hangers with a gun. Much quicker.
@@repeat125 Until you understand the difference between a joist/board that has been toenailed tight to the rim and a one-sided hanging hanger (floppy) you won't see the difference. When you have been framing since before nails guns, you might get the difference., of course YMMV
Yes that’s a good way to do it. Are you sick and tired of the overuse of Simpson hardware for just about everything, just wondering? Here is one, a one story 1400 square-foot home with a basement, small basement, in an earthquake zone 4, 100 years old, been through many earthquakes, pretty big ones, out here in California right on the San Andreas fault line. Had to lift and replace the foundation because it had no footing and it had no rebar, that was the only problem structurally. The roof was under designed, so we Purlin reinforced. The house was held together with only nails, except for some anchor bolts into the cracked up foundation. Not a single structural piece was out of place after Sinking up to 5 inches into the ground on the perimeter because of the poor foundation. …. That happened over a period of 100 years. Just lifted the home, put a new foundation, reinforce the roof and then did a total remodel of the floor plan. Did not use a single piece of Simpson hardware except for anchor bolts. Everything is wrong with Simpson hardware. First of all it doesn’t do anything that can’t be done with simpler, less costly fastening
I've been a builder over 40 years. You're presentation and explanation of 'step by step' is fantastically wise. I'm 64 years old, and this old dog learned some new tricks from your presentation. Kurtiss (orange county California based)👍
I was very lucky to have the job I retired from. I was happy to be doing work that I was good at, and paid well enough. My boss always wanted me to advance to the management team, but I was wise enough to stay where I was happy. I know that most people don’t have that opportunity. N.E.OH Bob
I love your guys content I have been watching for the last 5 years or so, your father reminds me so much of my late grandfather, who was from Washington. Keep up the great work!
This was an awesome video! Makes me wish my grandpa was around still so I could’ve learned to frame with him. That said I learned how to do finish work with my dad and now I’m learning ins and outs from you. Much thanks to you and your videos, keep them coming
I was thinking the same thing, that was a little more than just a simple countersink. There was enough wood removed that an Inspector might want something from the Engineer approving it. The Structural Plans would have the ledger size and attachment called out because an Engineer determined that both of those together were acceptable to carry the load. Once the Contractor deviates from this without approval from the Engineer he’s opening up the door to fail an inspection.
And yet our modern constructed houses last far less time than houses from other methods and areas. My hubby was an engineer, GC, commercial PM. We owned a building company. I’m actually going back to adobe, domes, maybe cob etc, as I think we’ve gotten far too complex, and detailed, but not in a good way. It’s too fussy, expensive, too many failure points, I.e. electrical, plumbing, flooding, what have you…I still enjoy watching this guy as it’s what I did for years. I just think we should look at the overall picture and effectiveness of where we’ve gotten to in western society…
Like the temporary joist shelf, I do it all the time. I just use a few clamps, no nailing or nails to pull out. You're a top guy and we all love your work! Thanks for sharing so much of your experiences with us.
Well you don’t pull the nails… the hardware will fit right over them if done halfway sufficiently. Can’t fit your hardware around a bar clamp that has to sit flush with a ledger in order to hold the joist flush…couldn’t imagine rolling joists with clamps lol. Your bar clamp collection must be outta this world though! Efficient if you’re hanging 1 or two joists….maybe
Tip: If you hold the power fastener firmly with 2 hands when you shoot, the nails will go in deeper. If you put your weight behind it, even deeper. Might not be great on the body (given you are absorbing the recoil) if doing a lot of them, but if just doing a few quicker/easier.
As Jame Siemers said i started framing houses,roofing,docks, decks remodeling & restoration in 1981.l appreciate your videos and im still restoring.This trade makes you live longer and makes you inventive and creative.Thanks for making me feel better for still doing it for a living (tho semi retired)
For me, the ideas in this Ryan's Shed Plans were a starting point for building different sheds th-cam.com/users/postUgkxn5Hu39f8DPIFYfBbaiOSis3qfw0nqoFp Ryan's gives ideas that allow an individual to draw nicest conclusions into the design and building of his or her own shed.
Love that Robert Frost quote.. My husband and I just finished after 2.5 years our self build ICF house. it's been a labour of love. Keep up the good work.
99% of the time I agree with your way of doing things, and I always love watching you videos, but on that ledger board, why countersink undersized screws? The time it took to counterbore all those holes surely was more than it would have taken to run to HD to get the right screws, no?
I was wondering the same thing. But what does it matter on bid jobs anyways. Seems like that’s the way it is done. Yes someone is working Time and material like I do, which is not popular but in fact is the right way to do things, then I wonder what is the right way to do it.
Although my education has made me money and success. I never gave up my working skills. My grandfather taught me to sharpen crosscut saws as a teenager, and sharpen and hang axes. I also developed skills with chainsaws and equipment. Later a handyman of logging camps. This program and buckin billy ray have taught me so very much. Not just my trade skills but about myself and enjoying people with a reverence for tools and trades. The personal reflections are so heart felt meaningful. Thank you
Correct. Your thigh is a fulcrum for your shovel handle. You rarely see a good shovel man these days. My father was one and he taught me the zen of moving dirt with a shovel. You can do it all day and your arms and back survive. Takes only five seconds to learn, enlightenment is instantaneous.
WOW your videos are great! you always remind me of my mentor!!! OCD and Perfectionist! the way you pre drill the hole for the simp SDS screws..... No one does that because the extra time it takes to get off a ladder to go grab a drill... That what makes you and my mentor different. You guys don't want anything good, you want it flawless or perfect. I am getting my contractors license here in California in the next 2 weeks and have been watching you videos for years. It explains a lot to me. My mentor sometimes gets annoyed because he's been in the trade for 40 years, he says he's a tape recorder... So when he gets tired of teaching I come and watch your videos. Thanks for explaining everything in detail.
You inspire me to be a better person - to have character, to do my best, to make everything I do worth doing well. I've never seen a youtube construction channel that pulls my inner spirit out of me to desire to greatness. Truly heavenly and Godly. Keep it up brother.
I’m a complete amateur who has built a few sheds, a boat house, and such. I probably will never build another building, but I wish I had your advice when I was younger. I never had the “right” tools and often made do - a big mistake. I often cut corners with materials to save money. Looking back I wish I could start again. Even though I’ve moved on and my building days are over, I love watching your videos to appreciate how a real professional does the job the right way. I was a high school teacher and so I also appreciate your talent for teaching. If you ever stop building you should think about teaching!
I would have loved to worked for this bloke for a good year or two for nothing. The amount of knowledge he has is incredible and you would be so lucky to have that type of skill to soak up. Amazing channel. Thank you
Character is what you do when no one it's watching or will see or ever know. Only you know and because you're letting everyone watch we all know you have great character... and you also have a peace within you that rewards you every day
As a career carpenter with 35 years but haven’t framed (at least ground up new construction) in about 10 years, you actually made me kinda miss framing and brought a fresh outlook. I didn’t learn anything new from your vid, I have framed massive custom homes and even did a couple years in “production” timber framing giant apartment complexes (not steel, they were still wood framed even though they were huge). These days I’m a trim/finish carpenter and a “woodworker”.
I've been watching your Channel for quite some time now. I love the work you do but what I really enjoy is your Insight on your trade and all the practical advice you give. It's like sitting down with a master Craftsman and learning from them. thank you for sharing your in-depth knowledge over the years.
I have an appreciation for Simpson Strong Ties not for what they do but how they are made and the people that make them. Many years age I did service work and did my share of work in the Simpson manufacturing plant in the San Francisco East Bay Area, not fun work there was a big press that was loud and shook the floor every time the operator used it, he had to switch off with another worker every 20 to 30 minutes for relief . The welders did eight hour shifts standing in their booth making the the same weld hundreds of times a day. The hangers you were using were punched and put in the break tossed into bins for another person to hang and dip in a hot fumey solution bath. I’m sure it’s been modernized but every time I see a Strong Tie I appreciate it.
your are such a rare individual. I so much appreciated your videos in the past and including this one I see your internal guide to perfection. Few people have this.
Your comment of the enjoyment of using your God given skills, reminds me we are blessed by the work of our hands. I hope all will give thanks for the knowledge expressed by this skilled craftsman. Peace and blessings
As I watch this build and hear your commentary, I think about how much I like to do the work. I spent fifteen years as a general contractor, working mostly in residential construction. From remodels to new homes. At that time, I worked by myself with few employees or no employees. I couldn't seem to be satisfied with anyone else's work performance or work ethics. The problem with working by yourself is the background items. No vacation time. You could not take off if you were busy and you could not take off if you had no work. Also no medical coverage and no retirement plan. What a Delima. So, purely by accident, a friend told me there was an opening for a Building Inspector position. I spent the next twenty years still in the construction trade, but more in the quality control area. Only after I retired and had time to do upgrade and repair projects on my own and friends' homes did I remember how much I really liked doing the work. Now at 77, I really like watching the TH-cam channels, like yours, to see someone else who really enjoys doing the work. At my age, I'm not totally done, I still do small projects that interest me, or build something for the grandkids or neighborhood kids. Sometimes even for their parents. Thanks for the great channel!
Must have been some good well fuffilled years,
James, I feel the exact same way you do, only I am 35 and have many more years in this business as a GC.
I still work as an inspector, and recommend this channel to supervisors and newer contractors.
I completely understand this. I'm 29 and I'm leaving the building industry as a profession now.
@@AG-kw7kw what are you going to do then?
A carpenter who recites Robert Frost poems! Man I get so much out of watching your TH-cam videos it’s really changed my attitude towards working and being a man and how to treat other people …. it’s such a blessing I really appreciate what you do and Sharing your thoughts and your wisdom with the rest of us buddy….God bless you
I've no idea how I end up watching such videos, as I'm about as incapable of building something as a dog might be, but I still find them oddly satisfying. Perhaps it's my appreciation of the smart, talented, and hardworking people and how they create the many things I tend to take for granted. I'm too soft for such jobs, after trying my hand at roofing and landscaping after the military. I've always had respect and appreciation for carpenters, roofers, masons, electricians, plumbers, mechanics, and other occupations where people create, modify, and repair things.
"Find the satisfaction that is inherent in the work itself..." A prescription for happiness in most any endeavor. Thank you for sharing this marvelous bit of wisdom, Mr. Wadsworth.
You've forgotten more carpentry techniques than most carpenters have accumulated over the years. You are a true professional craftsman
My wife was listening to the end of this episode as I watched it and commented on your closing narration. She said, “Oh, wow, that was poetic, I understand why you like this guy......”. I never have to apologize for being late to breakfast on a Saturday morning if I’m finishing an EC episode.
He is a well-rounded man. He is a great craftsman, knows poetry, makes music, etc.
Would he make his family wait for him to eat while he finished a TH-cam video?
You remind me so much of my grandfather.
He was my role model in life. He was a Master Carpenter also. Thank you!
A message to all the younger Wadsworth family members : Spend as much time as you can with this man, for that alone will treble your education for free. At this time you might not enjoy it, it may well seem boring, not nearly as much fun as your friends and video games and a myriad of other reasons. But trust me, you will look back in life very very often and be grateful that you spent time with "The Old Man" (so called with the utmost respect to Scott). Be well. Be safe. Be all you can.
Amen to that
I miss my grandad everyday. Thankfully you had to drag me out of his shop.
What a blessing for your daughter, and to be physically able to do this for her.
Not only are you a master of your trade, you do a great job of shooting excellent video content. It's always bright, clear, in focus, good sound, and not shaking. As you always say, "Keep up the good work!".
He is very knowledgeable but the 19.2 layout is ridiculous. $148 could have been made up by not making this video. Overbuild floor systems. Other places to save money.
@@krakenwoodfloorservicemcma5975 pretty sure he didn't actually do the 19.2 in the end.
As a carpenter I can say this is probably one of the most well-built Projects I have ever seen and I’ve seen a lot, I’ve always given 110% to anything I built and the satisfaction of walking away and saying it couldn’t of been done any better is basically all you need to look back on your accomplishments and say you did your best at all times, if more people put the effort in to do their best it would be a better world. And not just carpentry in all areas of our lives🎃
I've been doing home renos for 30 yrs now , and I can tell you for certain , that the almost rare ( and certainly getting rarer ) times I got to work in a house/home that was built by somebody like you , was very appreciated.
One that was built plumb and true , and meant to last , by someone who obviously takes pride in their work and their profession .
This was the first ( but certainly not last ) video of yours's , that I've watched , and it didn't take long to see that you are one of those people.
Of the many things I do , tiling is one that will very quickly find walls and floors that are out of square , and its those last tiles that go to wall( or floor ) corners , that are the biggest pain in the butt to measure, mark and cut , because the framer didn't care , or know what a centered bubble looks like .
Your daughter will Proudly tell all , that , My Dad built it .
Another dying art that you showed , was simple common sense.
Your narration at the end , was very true , and on these few blessed days , one gets that inner peace that makes all the " other " days , well .... the other days .
Thank you kindly sir .
Bob from Calgary
I like to think that's why he named his channel "The Essential Craftsman" because he certainly is one of those (now rare) craftsmen that is sharing his knowledge of all the tips and tricks that he picked up through the years in order to take pride in his work. It takes many baby steps to get up to that point of taking pride in one's work. I bet you have stumbled across many old construction houses (you have) that were just slapped together, even some 80 - 100 year old houses that were built mediocre at best and I'm a sucker for really old, sturdy houses, no dis. It's always been hit or miss from house to house, just not as prevalent back then. Obviously, there were always the framers who didn't care and all they know is "fast". Even 100+ years ago, there were very few outliers that didn't take pride in their work, but, IMO, what made the shotty builders more prevalent over the years was the introduction of power tools (unintentionally) bringing more shotty builders into fruition. That's where EC comes in. To show us and many others going into a skilled trade that, "slow is smooth and smooth is fast" and that one doesn't have to feel the need to cut corners and take shortcuts because I'm sure that's not what the inventor of the Skilsaw intended, for example. The same could even be said with the creator of the Stanley tape; didn't intend to create a doorway for the hacks to enter through. I'm taking it to the extreme with examples now. Lol. You get the gist of where I'm coming from, I hope. 😉
Im a structural draftsman and this guy really knows his stuff. Great to see a builder explain the good and bad of what to do, well done!
Lucky me, I am my own draftsman and builder and I can design things because I’m also an engineer without using all that crazy useless Simpson hardware (in earthquake zone 3). Simpson is the enemy of sound design and economical construction.
Ordinary houses can and should be built with zero Simpson hardware. Foundation can and should be attached with anchor bolts but if you want extra work you can put in those goddamn Simpson straps. In hurricane areas if you do conventional stick built roof framing or trusses, you should use Hurricane ties. So there are exceptions, but you can also build a roof without that stuff using better design and lag bolts.
Any real Carpenter that is an old timer, got to hate Simpson…. Over design is not good design.
@@steveperreira5850 Couldn't disagree with you more. Vancouver section of Kolbie Japan survived the best during their drastic earthquake years ago. Two by stick framing and Simpson earth quake engineering. Stucco is great in earth quakes as well because it absorbs and distributes the energy.
I've spent 23 years now in the electrical trades. Owned my business now for 13 years now, man how the years have flown by. I've always been one to notice and point out good craftsmanship when I see it it is deserved. This craftsman takes the cake. I still get a great deal of enjoyment out of the construction industry and even when those days/years are rough on me, I know I'm in the right industry. Watching these videos makes me want to further my skills and become a GC.
This episode is an absolute classic. Excellent education and even better inspiration. Thank you Scott.
Better make sure ur boards all plain out if u use the shelf method.
Thank you Scott (and team) for not only sharing your experience but your gift of communication and the high production camera work. Even after my 25 years as a carpenter, I still learn new things from you.
14:49 and on is why I will never miss one of Essential Craftsman episodes. Great work and even better life advice.
Thank you, you are a gentleman and a scholar, along with being an inspiration. I’m the go to guy for a general contractor. We mostly do framing with a little bit of everything else. I’m
Almost forty and have only been actively working in the field about 7 years and you are my most used reference for everything and anything I am not knowledgeable in. I am trying my best to support my disabled wife by myself. Thank you for the encouragement and down to earth facts. Thank you sir! God bless you and yours!
Building without cutting corners. Your tips and tricks are a gift to all of us. Thanks for sharing.
14:55
This is the #1 reason some of us enjoy our craft so much. We are blessed to have an occupation we love. Keep up the great work
I'm amazed that this old guy can do this much work by himself he's like a diesel engine.
Scott’s work processes really are impressive. Throughout the years he’s developed a system that allows him to not only work all by himself but it’s also more efficient and less physically demanding on his body. Very few people that work in the trades are the complete package. Kudos Scott!!!
As someone who is within a few months of being the same age, OLD is not the right word for what we are.
Very well experienced is probably better.
Work smart, work easy means the job is not as demanding as it appears to be.
@@6robertdavey Yeah. I'm 29 but I would say anyone 80 or more is "old"
@@6robertdavey a person can be well experienced and old at the same time 😉
Good genes , that's what it takes.
Im really enjoying this build, especially listening to your snippets of wisdom whilst you work. Watching someone sit talking can be tedious, listening to them whilst they work is heaven!
I don’t know what it is about this channel but no matter how tired or unmotivated I feel before watching a video I’m charged and ready to get something done after watching one, plus a little wiser too. Thank You!!
same...oddly watch early, in the a m., should be sleeping...but to interesting..
I am sure that I speak for multitudes when I say that you are a blessing and we love your videos. It seems you didn’t miss your calling in building - or teaching… and ditto for your son and all involved in the production of these videos. I’d bet that many folks wish they had a dad like you (seem to be)… and how many more wish they could find a carpenter (or teacher - in any trade) - even a little more - like yourself. Many Kudos on never wasting 1 minute of anyone’s time with your vast library of timeless and priceless videos.
God bless you, sir!
P.S… I, too, share the dual thorns in the side with you of both Obstructive and Central Sleep Apnea, along with many other maladies, eternally clogged sinuses, restrictive pulmonary disease & C.O.P.D. - just to name a few… but I don’t understand how you are able to be so active and appear so healthy. I am glad and grateful for you, nonetheless. I would rather be dead, though, than tape my mouth shut like you do… sends me into panic mode just thinking about it!! If you do ever decide to give your BPAP another try… do it with a grain of salt - as far as what the doctors tell you… I doubt most of these so-called doctors have ever tried living with the life sentence of wearing the stupid mask every night but I’ve worn it for over 11 years every single night as it’s literal life support when I lay down - but I usually leave the mask a bit loose as it helps me to not feel suffocated - especially at the onset every night. Do I still hate it? You bet! Could I live without it? Not a chance….
I will say this one last thing, though, for what it’s worth… to help ward off the inevitable state of panic that ensues on occasion when I cannot breathe - a cough drop for moistening & a switch & bait plan for relaxation… For the last year I’ve been listening to Lum and Abner as I put on my mask & drift off to sleep… whatever works to retrain your attention & - again - ward off an indescribably uncomfortable panic due to lack of air - or - even a sensation of insufficient air.
Sorry if my comment was too long but I really wanted to share this with you. Lord bless,
Mike in 78624
Yes, may Zeus bless us all...
That "(seem to be)" was an interesting caveat. You know something we don't know?
Get surgery to unblock your sinuses. Now I sleep with my mouth shut every night. Find the right doctor until you find one that says yes.
Every day is a gift…and the ‘satisfaction’ comes from doing something nice for someone who appreciates what you’re doing for them…and loves you. God bless…
I am a beginner to woodwork, the main test I have with this bundle th-cam.com/users/postUgkxTNB_zFBSnTo_O1PqfVUwgi7ityw0JlKt is that I think that its hard to settle on a choice of the plan and outline to use as there are a large portion of them there. Nonetheless, I like the simple stride to step directions laid out there.
I admire a guy like you that is a true professional carpenter that makes sure things are done correctly, true and plum, with precision. Great work!👍🏻
While I may never employ the skills I learn by watching your videos, I am comforted that someone somewhere is watching and learning in order to apply the knowledge to create structures of wood and care.
Brother, I have to say, as a fellow builder I love your channel. But even more so as a young man who didn't really grow up with the most positive or present male role models. I'm deeply thankful that you put in the initial effort to learn the skills that you share. I work for myself and have learned a truly priceless amount of information from your videos. Keep up the good work, and I look forward to being further taught and inspired by you!
Your channel is therapeutic to me. I’m the reviewing engineer for the City of Salem building department, and I’m so glad there are good men out there doing quality work. All the best,
Ryan McGraw, PE, SE
This comment reminds me of an old joke, "How do you know online when someone is an engineer? They'll tell you."
You sir are a really fine craftsman, I couldn’t think of anyone else I’d rather have to build something for me. Your daughter and son-in-law are blessed to have you as you are to have them. That’s family ❤
Yeah... he's setting the bar unreasonably high! 👍
@@737smartin everybody should strive for excellence in life. What type of man Essential Craftsman has become over his lifetime is what all men should strive to become as well. To think that he's setting the bar "unreasonably high" is a terrible mindset, instead he's setting the bar for most men to become a success in their own lives and take pride in what you do.
@@MV-wb2cz Someone’s sense of humor needs a serious tuning. 🤦♂️ 😂
Work, all by itself, is a virtue. Carpentry is an orderly aggregation of properly applied processes. As a retired (not by choice) carpenter (30+ yrs) and building inspector (9 yrs), I miss the work, because I learned what good it has done for me. Working, as you have demonstrated in this video, can show you who you are as a person. With the right attitude and work ethic, one can develop attributes that can be of great benefit to your fellow man, to society, and not least to your family. I'm ready to start binge-watching your channel, as I think it will remind me, or confirm within me, many of the things I have learned. With gratitude, Scott.
It is rare that I watch a TH-camr once and immediately subscribe!
Thank you, and compliments. Love seeing the work, hearing your perspective, and wishing more folks could share in this.
This man is a BEAST (in a good way). Love watching him, Mentor his grandsons to be Builders. Hope the boys always remember the treasure they have in their grandpa 🤓
Preach brother.
I find it so ironic. People work harder at getting out of work to do nothing and “enjoy life”. Not realizing that life is lived in the work we do. Love your channel keep it up. 👍🏼🇺🇸
Thank you for the video. I always enjoyed carpentry, framing and all around remodel work with my father. He passed away about three weeks ago. He taught me a lot and we always had a good time working together.
This videoe is prime example of work smarter, not harder.
To learn from this mans experience is a priceless gift.
Than you
I love all of your little tricks. It really is amazing what one person can do with some clever techniques. Also, it worth noting that you're the reason I started wearing suspenders - best wardrobe upgrade I ever made. No more stopping work to pull my pants back up!
I don’t think I’d be here without the soft commentary and uncommon decency of striving for perfection. My OCD never kicks in while watching you. Everything you do I’m amazed. I’ve been watching couple years now and never commented. I run cranes for a living. Mostly larger cranes doing bridge beams, large rooftop AC units, and so on. However once in a while I take a smaller crane and do residential construction and it’s almost always chaos. Little managerial behavior on site. Measure seems merely a suggestion to some folk. As if, “we wanted 5/8 but 3/4 is okay too. Your videos are opposite. They bring me peace, relief, and joy. Thank you
This man is a National Treasure, a true Master of his craft and just a beautiful human being, if we had a few more of his kind in the world then it would be a far better place.
We salute you sir.
Preach it, Rev. Carpentry and philosophy and poetry. I'm a retired English teacher who also had a Pinewood Derby Workshop on a bus for a few years. Your videos just sing. Thanks.
I'm with you 100% about 16 inch spacing. I prefer it in roofing, too. "Liquid Nails" has the problem of skinning over before you can lay the sheet down on it for nailing. You remind me of when I was 9 years old, watching one tiny old slow-moving man build 2 houses by himself, cutting all his boards with a handsaw.
19.2" O.C. spacing doesn't bother me at all, but when floor tile is involved, I think twice. Even with 16" O.C. spacing on floor joists you need to realize that the National Tile Contractors Association specifies less deflection than all the residential building codes, so pay attention to span tables. My last house had broken floor tile laid over undersized 9.5" TJI's when they first came out. I could feel my 12 lb. poodle trot across the floor even when I was in a different room.
New energy code requirements to put the entire heat system within the conditioned envelope sure works a lot easier with 19.2" spacing with tall joists. I'm finally building a home for myself this time and I'm using 14" I-joists 19.2" O.C., and 16" O.C. where spans were greater. I saw 8" O.C. in one new construction home, and I pitied the plumber and electrician!!
My first foreman was similar to this guy, learned something every time he would talk or just observing how he did things. Forever grateful for what he taught me.
Beautiful work brother. I believe that in our time of engineered lumber; ballon framing is about to see a massive resurgence. I saw your fire blocking, but don’t forget to point it out for the audience we want to teach. Great work brother.
Robert Frost quote was fantastic!
Also great - using those bent nails to hang the 6’2” boards so you could toe nails them up. Just genius pro tip and sign of a seasoned pro!
I am a structural engineer...and I learn so much from this channel. I specialize in residential SE...So much good information here.
Scott, you always close each episode with the phrase "Thank you for watching Essential Craftsman".
And I would like to respond to each and every episode with "Scott and Nate, Thank You for MAKING Essential Craftsman. And keep up the good work!".
The woods are lovely, dark and deep, But Scott has promises to keep, And miles to go before he sleeps.....MILES to go before he sleeps!
As usual love the old your school wisdom, tricks, and mastery of your craft/narration. It is indeed something that is rare to come by these days. I wonder why I just can't help myself but to keep coming back for more!
Great job Scott. I love your bits if philosophy and poetry.
Keep up the great work
Jeff
Yes, Sir. I have the privilege of helping my youngest son build a cabin on 120 acres. The joy of working next to him and sharing skills is immeasurable. Thank you for sharing your expertise.
I've used a Ramset driver quite a bit. I've had success driving the nail with a hammer until it contacts the concrete then finishing with the powder activated tool. Most of the time I just needed one charge to drive the nail completely. It takes energy to even drive the nail through the wood. Love the build Scott!
Thanks for the tip, those charges arent cheap where I am!
Hey Scott. I have been watching your videos for years and have enjoyed them. I have a few years on you but am still pounding nails. No, I can't work 8 hours a day 5 days a week It's more like 5 or 6 hours a day and I pick the work.
Last summer I spent 16 days in the hospital and 3 months out of work and it was then that I realized how much I missed it. In January I have to have cataracts removed from both eyes and maybe in February having vascular surgery from 3 arteries in my neck. I am not looking forward to being forced out of work for the recuperation. I'm in Maine so I won't mind being stuck in the house for a while in the of winter.
For any of you young people watching, don't smoke, if you drink be careful it can do bad things without you realizing it, and don't jump off truck tailgates or anything else mor than a couple feet off the ground.
I've had great appreciation for Frost's work since high school back in the '60s. It is wonderful to connect with others who understand and revel in the satisfaction of a job well done. p.s. - I'm still waiting for "Keep Up the Good Work" merchandise!
I find a lot of peace wood working. There’s also a sense of pride and accomplishment completing work that will last beyond our lifetime. Instead of oil paints upon a piece of canvas, it’s lumber which people will reside and shelter from weather. Your attention to details is most admirable sir. Thank you kindly for giving your lessons and the best students are the ones that will seek to learn from you.
I was enjoying a cup of tea in the sun today and realised how much of what was around me I'd designed and built. I've been making things around my home for the last ten years and was never really conscious of the whole, just each small task. I've pretty much enjoyed each task (I think!) but to enjoy the whole setup is a real pleasure.
So nice to see another contractor that truly cares and treats every job like it was his own house. I’ve been a gc doing mainly flooring for 10+years and have always taken the time to do things the right way, and alone. I genuinely enjoy the work, although very hard work, and love the fact that people invite me into their home to improve their life. Can’t find anyone else that will do the job like it was their own home and have no situations where “good enough” flies. Thank you for sharing I have learned so much from your videos. Looking forward to building my own house within the next few years. Might take me months longer than hiring out but I can rest assured that nobody could have built my house at a better quality than I would do myself ❤️ God is so good hope you have a good day!
That's going to be an amazing garage when it's done. Certainly the most envious garage in the neighborhood. I'm very happy for you all.
"A man is entitled to his work and nothing else". I am not sure who wrote this but after I got my head around it, it rang true. We all need work. Not for money alone, but for well-being.
We appreciate the great tips. I am about to build a hunting cabin with my son and I may be solo for a few days so, I can see some of these tricks coming in handy.
I absolutely love those GRK screws, that company has does a great job of manufacturing a good quality screw.
I’m not a big fan of jerks they oxidize quickly then break like twigs.
I always feel nervous using screws to carry loads. I might have notched in that rim joist he countersunk those screws into. Engineers say it's fine, and I know it is, but what if it isn't?
0:22 That concrete floor is museum quality workmanship! I was distracted by that floor so much so that I didn't hear a word you said and had to pause to just admire it and then start watching the video again.
I absolutely love your channel, your content, and your ability to demonstrate a professional view of real life trades at its best outcomes through hard work and no "drama". This particular vid along with your commentary ranks among the best you have produced... and that my friend is saying a lot as you have produced great content. Thank you so much!
Thank you so much for the reference to the Robert Frost poem (Two Tramps in Mud Time). I have never been exposed to it and the minute your video finished I backed up to get the title firmly planted in my mind and found the entire poem. I would write more but comments that are too long never get read, just know that it applies so much to my entire work in the trades and especially in one project of helping my son with his 24/7/365 cabin on the side of a mountain in Montana. Thank you, I will read it often and share it with my son.
7:28 I'd recommend to your viewers that they just get the correct length GRK.
Yeah I don't like that countersinking at all, I'd also balloon frame the right way and notch the studs for the rim joist.
Thank you for your time.
I am an ex carpenter my self and appreciate your skill of the trade and your devotion to do your very best for the client and produce a building for people to enjoy for generations.
I transitioned from the trade to farming a few decades ago now but I'm grateful that I have had the opportunity to have a career path that has been a valuable contribution to individual people, the community and the country as a whole. That is much more rewarding than the short term monetary gain.
You should be proud of your contribution and your ability to do manual work at your age.
Love the nail on the end of the joist trick, so simple. I can't believe, after all these years, I still haven't bought a burke bar. There's a place, sort of nearby, that sells them. I need to get it on my list. Thanks for the Robert Frost bit at the end.
EC has a video on making your own Burke bar. It was a while back and requires some welding.
I was a builder for nigh on 50 years, now 76, and I put many apprentice carpenters through their time and my constant advice to them was don’t just do the job but do the job and do it properly a characteristic sadly missing in young contractors theses days.
Building is such a satisfying occupation when you can stand back and look at the finished product and say ‘I built that’ and walk away and ‘close the gate’ secure in the knowledge that there will be no comebacks.
Well done son. I am impressed. There’s something about the white hair that says quality.😊
So, the countersunk GRK screws hold up one half the ledger board thickness. Why not use longer GRKs for proper strength and less work? Or did I miss something?
Carpentry work and poetry: excellent combination, and I say that sincerely. Love the videos.
Your work philosophy is amazing and finding enjoyment in your work is a lesson everyone needs to learn. Thank you ❤️🙏♥️
Oh my goodness,loved it. I’ve been a carpenter for a long time I use a lot of tricks to work efficiently alone and still learned a few things watching you. I love your calmness and your zenness as you move along. I operate in the same manner but you take it to another level . I find myself now taking more precautions to fight against dust and noise to protect myself .keep up the good work my friend.
I would love to just have 10% of this great man’s knowledge
This is a man that would do anything for his family that’s true love god bless you I hope they appreciate
Around here, we mark and nail one side of the hangers before we hang the rimboard on the ground. Then you already have youre shelf righ there. Put in the joist & nail the other side of the hangers.
Or just nail both sides of the hangers before hand en just put em in & nail the sides. Goes way faster and you dont need to nail above yoyre head.
That works if you don't care about squeaks and such. Dimensional lumber is too inconsistent in size to do that, especially on your daughter's house. Or if you don't care about callbacks. Some people don't want to build to the "good enough"' standard. YMMV
@@bestbuilder1st i just dont see the difference i you only nail the left side of the hanger (right side not , stays loose) hang up the rim , put in a dot of glue on every hanger if you like. Put in the beams (by yourself, no need for a shelf nailed on the bottem , hanger already in place). And only then put the right side tight to the beam and nail off without any wiggle room. Boom quick and easy on your back. also around here we nail the hangers with a gun. Much quicker.
@@repeat125 Until you understand the difference between a joist/board that has been toenailed tight to the rim and a one-sided hanging hanger (floppy) you won't see the difference.
When you have been framing since before nails guns, you might get the difference., of course YMMV
@@bestbuilder1st agree…
Yes that’s a good way to do it.
Are you sick and tired of the overuse of Simpson hardware for just about everything, just wondering?
Here is one, a one story 1400 square-foot home with a basement, small basement, in an earthquake zone 4, 100 years old, been through many earthquakes, pretty big ones, out here in California right on the San Andreas fault line.
Had to lift and replace the foundation because it had no footing and it had no rebar, that was the only problem structurally. The roof was under designed, so we Purlin reinforced.
The house was held together with only nails, except for some anchor bolts into the cracked up foundation. Not a single structural piece was out of place after Sinking up to 5 inches into the ground on the perimeter because of the poor foundation. …. That happened over a period of 100 years.
Just lifted the home, put a new foundation, reinforce the roof and then did a total remodel of the floor plan. Did not use a single piece of Simpson hardware except for anchor bolts.
Everything is wrong with Simpson hardware. First of all it doesn’t do anything that can’t be done with simpler, less costly fastening
I've been a builder over 40 years. You're presentation and explanation of 'step by step' is fantastically wise. I'm 64 years old, and this old dog learned some new tricks from your presentation.
Kurtiss (orange county California based)👍
I was very lucky to have the job I retired from. I was happy to be doing work that I was good at, and paid well enough. My boss always wanted me to advance to the management team, but I was wise enough to stay where I was happy. I know that most people don’t have that opportunity. N.E.OH Bob
I love your guys content I have been watching for the last 5 years or so, your father reminds me so much of my late grandfather, who was from Washington. Keep up the great work!
This was an awesome video! Makes me wish my grandpa was around still so I could’ve learned to frame with him. That said I learned how to do finish work with my dad and now I’m learning ins and outs from you.
Much thanks to you and your videos, keep them coming
It's a true pleasure to listen to a tradesman. Doing things well is the best way of gaining time.
As an engineer, watching your countersinking that ledger was painful. I would have sent you a bag of 4" GRKs to avoid that.
I was thinking the same thing, that was a little more than just a simple countersink. There was enough wood removed that an Inspector might want something from the Engineer approving it.
The Structural Plans would have the ledger size and attachment called out because an Engineer determined that both of those together were acceptable to carry the load. Once the Contractor deviates from this without approval from the Engineer he’s opening up the door to fail an inspection.
And yet our modern constructed houses last far less time than houses from other methods and areas. My hubby was an engineer, GC, commercial PM. We owned a building company. I’m actually going back to adobe, domes, maybe cob etc, as I think we’ve gotten far too complex, and detailed, but not in a good way. It’s too fussy, expensive, too many failure points, I.e. electrical, plumbing, flooding, what have you…I still enjoy watching this guy as it’s what I did for years. I just think we should look at the overall picture and effectiveness of where we’ve gotten to in western society…
Came to the comments to see if it was just me that had that reaction. Glad to see others just as concerned.
I think he knows what he's doing bud 🙄😂
Like the temporary joist shelf, I do it all the time. I just use a few clamps, no nailing or nails to pull out. You're a top guy and we all love your work! Thanks for sharing so much of your experiences with us.
Excellent refinement of the concept, thank you. A few bar clamps on each ledger board would hold it temporarily, and simplify the removal.
Well you don’t pull the nails… the hardware will fit right over them if done halfway sufficiently. Can’t fit your hardware around a bar clamp that has to sit flush with a ledger in order to hold the joist flush…couldn’t imagine rolling joists with clamps lol. Your bar clamp collection must be outta this world though! Efficient if you’re hanging 1 or two joists….maybe
Tip: If you hold the power fastener firmly with 2 hands when you shoot, the nails will go in deeper. If you put your weight behind it, even deeper. Might not be great on the body (given you are absorbing the recoil) if doing a lot of them, but if just doing a few quicker/easier.
As Jame Siemers said i started framing houses,roofing,docks, decks remodeling & restoration in 1981.l appreciate your videos and im still restoring.This trade makes you live longer and makes you inventive and creative.Thanks for making me feel better for still doing it for a living (tho semi retired)
For me, the ideas in this Ryan's Shed Plans were a starting point for building different sheds th-cam.com/users/postUgkxn5Hu39f8DPIFYfBbaiOSis3qfw0nqoFp Ryan's gives ideas that allow an individual to draw nicest conclusions into the design and building of his or her own shed.
Love that Robert Frost quote.. My husband and I just finished after 2.5 years our self build ICF house. it's been a labour of love.
Keep up the good work.
99% of the time I agree with your way of doing things, and I always love watching you videos, but on that ledger board, why countersink undersized screws? The time it took to counterbore all those holes surely was more than it would have taken to run to HD to get the right screws, no?
I agree. You can always re-use screws on another job. But I have a rule to never use the wrong fastener and potentially compromise the result.
My nearest big box store is an hour plus round trip. Bet it took him 5 minutes to do it his way.
@@johnirwin1837 Right, but whatever engineering data goes with those structural screws is out the window when you drill halfway through the ledger.
That detail probably would have gotten you in trouble with the engineer
I was wondering the same thing.
But what does it matter on bid jobs anyways. Seems like that’s the way it is done.
Yes someone is working Time and material like I do, which is not popular but in fact is the right way to do things, then I wonder what is the right way to do it.
Although my education has made me money and success. I never gave up my working skills. My grandfather taught me to sharpen crosscut saws as a teenager, and sharpen and hang axes. I also developed skills with chainsaws and equipment. Later a handyman of logging camps. This program and buckin billy ray have taught me so very much. Not just my trade skills but about myself and enjoying people with a reverence for tools and trades. The personal reflections are so heart felt meaningful. Thank you
Please someone show that kid how to use a shovel properly
Correct. Your thigh is a fulcrum for your shovel handle. You rarely see a good shovel man these days. My father was one and he taught me the zen of moving dirt with a shovel. You can do it all day and your arms and back survive. Takes only five seconds to learn, enlightenment is instantaneous.
@@hobnob4224 exactly !
WOW your videos are great! you always remind me of my mentor!!! OCD and Perfectionist! the way you pre drill the hole for the simp SDS screws..... No one does that because the extra time it takes to get off a ladder to go grab a drill... That what makes you and my mentor different. You guys don't want anything good, you want it flawless or perfect. I am getting my contractors license here in California in the next 2 weeks and have been watching you videos for years. It explains a lot to me. My mentor sometimes gets annoyed because he's been in the trade for 40 years, he says he's a tape recorder... So when he gets tired of teaching I come and watch your videos. Thanks for explaining everything in detail.
his neighbors must love that huge eyesore
You inspire me to be a better person - to have character, to do my best, to make everything I do worth doing well. I've never seen a youtube construction channel that pulls my inner spirit out of me to desire to greatness. Truly heavenly and Godly. Keep it up brother.
I’m a complete amateur who has built a few sheds, a boat house, and such. I probably will never build another building, but I wish I had your advice when I was younger. I never had the “right” tools and often made do - a big mistake. I often cut corners with materials to save money. Looking back I wish I could start again. Even though I’ve moved on and my building days are over, I love watching your videos to appreciate how a real professional does the job the right way. I was a high school teacher and so I also appreciate your talent for teaching. If you ever stop building you should think about teaching!
I would have loved to worked for this bloke for a good year or two for nothing. The amount of knowledge he has is incredible and you would be so lucky to have that type of skill to soak up. Amazing channel. Thank you
Man! Half philosopher, half carpenter. Great content as always. Thank you.
Character is what you do when no one it's watching or will see or ever know. Only you know and because you're letting everyone watch we all know you have great character... and you also have a peace within you that rewards you every day
As a career carpenter with 35 years but haven’t framed (at least ground up new construction) in about 10 years, you actually made me kinda miss framing and brought a fresh outlook. I didn’t learn anything new from your vid, I have framed massive custom homes and even did a couple years in “production” timber framing giant apartment complexes (not steel, they were still wood framed even though they were huge).
These days I’m a trim/finish carpenter and a “woodworker”.
I've been watching your Channel for quite some time now. I love the work you do but what I really enjoy is your Insight on your trade and all the practical advice you give. It's like sitting down with a master Craftsman and learning from them. thank you for sharing your in-depth knowledge over the years.
I have an appreciation for Simpson Strong Ties not for what they do but how they are made and the people that make them. Many years age I did service work and did my share of work in the Simpson manufacturing plant in the San Francisco East Bay Area, not fun work there was a big press that was loud and shook the floor every time the operator used it, he had to switch off with another worker every 20 to 30 minutes for relief . The welders did eight hour shifts standing in their booth making the the same weld hundreds of times a day. The hangers you were using were punched and put in the break tossed into bins for another person to hang and dip in a hot fumey solution bath. I’m sure it’s been modernized but every time I see a Strong Tie I appreciate it.
your are such a rare individual. I so much appreciated your videos in the past and including this one I see your internal guide to perfection. Few people have this.
Your comment of the enjoyment of using your God given skills, reminds me we are blessed by the work of our hands.
I hope all will give thanks for the knowledge expressed by this skilled craftsman.
Peace and blessings