We Passed! On to Insulation!

The State of Michigan has given its approval. We can insulate the Cabin at Many Moons. Yay.

I say “the state” because individual states issue building codes, and state inspectors enforce them. Three such inspectors visited us recently, and all gave us their go-ahead. Whew.

These so-called rough inspections must occur before insulating because inspectors need to see that we’re following state codes in the stuff that will be hidden behind that insulation. Codes are meant to protect the homeowner and the community. Knowing and following the building codes (which in this state encompass electrical, mechanical and plumbing) is a pain for any home-builder, especially DIY-ers like us. They differ from state to state; Florida and Virginia have some of the strongest building codes, according to International Code Council, although folks here seem to feel that Michigan codes are stronger than they should be. Complaining about codes — and regulations generally — is a kind of pastime around here. My view is that most are well-intentioned, some necessary, and a few excessive. But then, my perspective comes from witnessing arguments about regulation at the highest (even White House) levels and sometimes participating. I remember the tangle of reasons, concerns, worries. Determining “the greater good” for a population of 332 million (U.S.) or 10 million (Michigan) is pretty hard. (To read about building codes, click here.)

And here’s the biggest news: insulation is scheduled for tomorrow! When we told the contractor we’ve passed “the roughs,” he found a slot for us right away! So we hustled to clean up and are excited to see what tomorrow brings. Stay tuned to find out what kind of insulation we’re getting…because that, too, is a big choice among so many when immersed in new-home construction. Recent updates follow in photos and captions…