Hello,
I would appreciate feedback about this small wooden cottage.
It is 72 years old, appears well built and rests on cinder blocks with large stones surrounding the blocks. ( see attached photo of underneath the cottage. The front of cottage is on the right of photo )
There is no working septic system.
Plumbing will be needed. It was previously used as a summer cottage, located in central New England.
I will get a home inspection, but I’d appreciate input here.
What should I be especially concerned about? Does present foundation appear adequate? Owner says she has no concerns about foundation, and that roof does not leak. Chimney was repointed, there is propane heat. Any and all constructive feedback is welcomed. Thank you 🌷
Replies
What do you plan to do with this?
Initially use it seasonally.
Over time make it year round residence.
I recognize expense involved in septic, etc
Thank you for replying.
When you get into a real heating season, moisture control gets more important, since moisture in warm air will drop out as soon as the temperature gets below the dew point of the inside air.
It will be a little challenging to get the heat loss down
As you contemplate plumbing, you need to insulate and heat the space so it does not freeze (or plan to winterize when it does freeze)
When you add plumbing to the cottage and look to be 3+ seasons, you will need to keep the sanitary lines warm. Heat trace could work if you have reliable power. Alternatively, I think you're looking at digging or jacking up the cottage to gain some working space. I'd look to insulate on the ground and create a heated crawl space. Closed cell spray foam will be your friend on this project. The existing foundation system will allow frost to move the building vertically. Some flexible connections should be incorporated into the plumbing sanitary lines. Doors may not work properly throughout the winter months due to differential movement of the structure.