Big project; the ceiling!
Updated: Sep 19
By ordering "characterful" planks from Brooks sawmill in Cochrane (http://brookssawmill.com/), we began one of the main projects in building The Boar. We used the truck to collect the planks since there was no way to fit 20-foot planks in the Volvo or on a trailer.
Once back at our campsite, we unloaded the planks through the window and arranged a setup that allowed us to work on them, protected from the sun and the occasional evening rain. Then we started to use a grinder with a wire wheel to remove the bark and insects, giving the edges the desired character. The next step was painting the planks, a task handled by Jolanda.
We wanted burlap to show between the planks, as its open, rough texture would provide a warm contrast without being too dark. To prevent tape and spray foam from showing through the burlap, we first placed black fabric on the ceiling. However, we underestimated the amount needed, so Jolanda had to cut it into strips, and Lex stapled them to the ceiling. To minimize burlap fibers from making our living area dusty, I sprayed the burlap with a mixture of wood glue and water to help the fibers adhere more firmly.
We started by placing the center plank and worked outward to ensure even spacing, especially to the edges of the ceiling. We then installed the planks with potlights, making small holes in the fabric to pull the wires through. Using a template, I determined the plank placement and worked toward the sides.
Since the burlap wasn't wide enough to cover everything at once, the next burlap section above the living and kitchen, I stapled it behind a plank to mount it to the side there. We installed the potlights and prepared the wiring for dimmable switches.
The first lights were mounted above the kitchen, allowing Jolanda to cook with full lighting.
To hide the wiring in the box corners, we planned to install a 45-degree angle plank, along with an LED strip light. I created a template to router the strip light's depth.
But first I had to make the ends nice on the closet and walls.
I placed the light in the routered spot, and filled it with silicone caulking: a trick I learned from short YouTube videos. The effect was exactly what we wanted! All that remained was to connect them to the switch and put them in place.
Now, we have a cool ceiling.
See you next blog.
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