In this blog post I would like to introduce our new workshop which is now operational. We started construction in the spring and moved in on October 17th. I self-contracted local trades for the build.
The shop measures 40' x 26' for a total of 1,040 sq. feet.
- Single pitch roof with 4' overhang on front wall
- Dual 16' doors with openers, R19 insulation with windows
- Fully insulated and drywalled
- Propane heated
The shop layout is split into two work areas with one on the left and the other on the right. I then located the WIP racks in between with the CNC machines near the bay doors.
Below are some photos on the build progress. The most costly part of the project was the footings, footing wall. Canada's building code requires that concrete footings be installed at 4' below grade as a minimum.
Below is a section view of the foundation wall and footing.
I was able to hire my brother's son-in-law and his father for the framing portion of the project. There was some head scratching at the the beginning but they quickly got to work.
In-floor heating is popular in Canada but I decided against it and instead invested in large 8' wide windows to allow thermal heating naturally from the sunlight. This was my strategy when building my home seven years ago and it works extremely well. The property sits on top a hill unshaded by trees allowing for plenty solstice sun especially in the winter.
The only real issue was the hydro (electrical) which required that I move my large CNC into the shop much earlier than anticipated in order to keep production on schedule. The new shop circuit needed fed off the house's electrical panel and so it stole the only remaining breaker slot which was being used by the CNC. Below you can see the CNC partially assembled in its new home.
It became very stressful when I had to move and tarp the CNC for a week while the drywallers did their thing. But everything is looking really good! We were even able to get some floor paint down.
The electrical trades came back and installed the lighting fixtures. We finally were able to get some paint on the walls and start moving in.
My son Joseph helping with setup.
My son Laurence putting together the second 3D printer.
Leo likes to watch the boys.
The outside facade is looking sharp! Bella stays outside.
This new mobile computer stand allows me to move the PC closer to my workpiece for tool changes, and then move away for to avoid the spray of wood chips.
It feels so good to packing product and shipping on ground level. We were five years working out of the basement.
Parts coming off the printers are looking very nice.
Stay tuned for my Youtube video where I show more.