Between 265 & 485 SQ/FT 1950s Craftsman Garage retro remodel

[Red Leader]

What finish are you useing? Wild how some of the wood looks bright yellow.

Clear gloss poly.

Part of the 'yellow' is my white-balance setting. It might be a little warm for what I was shooting. The camera was behaving a little strange. Not quite as yellow in person. Also it was under artificial light.

I'm glad I have arrived at this step

 

[GirlnAgarage]

RL, the table really stands out. It looks great!

 

[Red Leader]

Tornado warning this evening!

I'll let you guys know how it shakes out. Believe it or not, I fit both cars (and motorcycle) into the garage with nothing else coming out.

Pictures will follow

 

[SpeedinLemon]

Tornado warning this evening!

I'll let you guys know how it shakes out. Believe it or not, I fit both cars (and motorcycle) into the garage with nothing else coming out.

Pictures will follow

It's been said before..."If there's no picture, it didn't happen!".

Seriously though....hope all is well. Tornadoes are a good reminder of the awsome power of nature! I've been in or near "Tornado Alley" most of my life, but they can be a scary thing.

Be safe and God Bless!

 

[Red Leader]

It's been said before..."If there's no picture, it didn't happen!".

Seriously though....hope all is well. Tornadoes are a good reminder of the awsome power of nature! I've been in or near "Tornado Alley" most of my life, but they can be a scary thing.

Be safe and God Bless!

Thanks SpeedinLemon.

The nice thing is that having an Amateur radio license, I have a radio and have been constantly monitoring the situation real time via the National Weather Service (162.550 MHZ). One of the heavier weather is 24 miles SE of Denver proper and about 10 miles NE of the Pinery, which puts it very close to us. So far we have not seen too much action, some thunder, quite a bit of wind, and rain off an on. Supposedly the heaviest part of the storm has been reported to have 2" diameter hail, hence the moving of the vehicles in the garage

 

[Wingnut65]

That radar looks wicked. Weather Channel has deep, deep red colors just moving past your place now... Hang on and let us know you are OK.

BTW, the bench looks great. The sawdust and glue works every time!

 

[Red Leader]

I survived!


Actually, we did get some nasty wind, rail, and hail, but all came out okay!


You guys wanted proof that I fit both cars in the garage (pics or it didn't happen, right?)...

well...here you go!

Also, since it is was my birthday today my wife let me have some time out in the garage and THIS was the result:

Here is the 1932 Atlas 9" lathe I'll be putting together. I'll be getting the rest of the parts (sans motor) from the previous owner, who is a great guy.

Also, here is the (dusty) workbench with a second coat on it:

I want to do a third coat but the bench started getting used before I could!! I suppose that is somehow proper, though


All in all, a great day and a huge load off my mind since I really want to try to be on track for getting the epoxy done by the end of July.

Here is what the plan looks like:

1. Sell unnecessary tools (done)
2. Move everything to its (near) final spot (done)
3. Get all stationary tools up on rolling bases
4. Grind floor
5. DON'T get any oil spots on the floor until it is time to epoxy!
6. Fill in cracks with industrial concrete crack filler
7. Get a plan for how to tackle the epoxy
8. Epoxy!

As you can see, I have a long way to go, but some major, major steps have been done. I'll be needing to do a lot of prep work, but it will get there.

They say that the epoxy takes only 15 minutes to set, and I've heard you have to do it 4x, dividing the garage floor into 4 parts. There is still a blank spot in my mind about how exactly I am going to tackle. it. I'm wondering if it might be easier to try and get some help and make sure I provide the beer?

Any thoughts from anyone on how best to tackle the epoxy floor, either as 1 man or a team? Your thoughts are appreciated.

Thanks for looking guys! The work never stops! Next up - more workbench stuff and more work on that floor list above!

 

[machine_punk]

If I lived closer, I'd happily come by and help with the epoxy...you are just right up HWY 80, right?

I'm glad you got some time in the garage. I ended up with a coolant leak in the van and had to replace a coolant hose tonight, instead of working in the studio (of course, I figured out it was actually the water pump, which is going to be a bit bigger of a fix). Hoping for some time in the garage tomorrow, since I am off work.

M_P

 

[tinbender 66]

That bench looks great! And the garage looks HUGE now that you've done a little "weeding". I'm looking forward to the floor adventure.

 

[takeiteasy]

They say that the epoxy takes only 15 minutes to set, and I've heard you have to do it 4x, dividing the garage floor into 4 parts. There is still a blank spot in my mind about how exactly I am going to tackle. it. I'm wondering if it might be easier to try and get some help and make sure I provide the beer?

Any thoughts from anyone on how best to tackle the epoxy floor, either as 1 man or a team? Your thoughts are appreciated.

I epoxied my floor - with the Rustoleum kit (EpoxyShield) and it really wasn't hard. Mine was a new floor, so that was a good start, but I just washed it with the etching stuff provided in the kit, let it dry, and then just went ahead and rolled, making sure I put the 'sprinkles' on as I went along - really no harder than painting. Just make sure the concrete is warm enough per instructions.

 

[flybefree]

RL,

I have done epoxy twice. Read the instructions carefully and if it is hot outside having a helper will make thing much easier as you try and carefully put down the product prior to the pot life expiring. Floor prep is the key...grind that baby, I just used acid etch on my garage and one spot pulled up a year later.

To summarize:

1) Floor prep is the key to a long term finish
2) Follow the instructions, note the effect temp/humidity has on the pot life.
3) Get helper
4) Rehearse briefly with helper the plan.
5) Mix well...use a jiffy mixer and a drill...absolutely double check your weights/ratios to ensure proper performance. Last time I mixed and Dad did most of the painting.
6) If using flakes make your own spike shoes...there is no way I could lay down a decent pattern without spike shoes to go fix my mistakes.

You will note my summary is longer than my narrative....yeah, I kept remembering stuff that stressed me out.

Keep the manufacturer help line in speed dial on you phone.

I'm done now.

Shaun

 

[shopnut]

The lathe looks to be in great shape. Even the paint looks pretty good. So just a little spit shine (and a motor) and you are in business??? Does it have one chuck clamped inside another in this picture? (Looks like a 3-jaw scroll inside a 4-jaw)

Don't psyche yourself out over that floor - epoxy is really not too difficult. Just heed the warnings of others that have gone before you and you will be fine. (If not - you can always move! )

 

[Wingnut65]

I can't give any advice on the epoxy, but if I were a lot closer, I'd be willing to learn it. Listen to Shaun, his experience can cover several of our lifetimes.

The shop is looking great. It all seems to fit just right.

I just love this shot. It reminds me so much of what we go through when a Hurricane approaches as well. We pull everything out of the middle to get the cars in and then load the cars with the stuff left in the driveway. I'm impressed that you didn't have to stack anything on the roof of the cars. Congrats on getting them both in. That is a major accomplishment!

 

[shopnut]

We pull everything out of the middle to get the cars in and then load the cars with the stuff left in the driveway.

And then we have a block party and drink until the hurricane passes because no one can drive anywhere

 

[Wingnut65]

And then we have a block party and drink until the hurricane passes because no one can drive anywhere

Besides, the garage door brace on the inside takes half an hour to to remove...

 

[Red Leader]

Thanks fellas! I'll have to do plenty of research for the floor.

I have some great news though! My wife (for the birthday) bought me some knee pads and a diamond grinding wheel!!! Pictures to soon follow!

I want to try to find a way to hook up the shop vac to the grinder in hopes of reducing the concrete dust. I know it is more work, but I will be grinding the floor, so that will be a good start into doing it right.

Jeff you are right that is a 3 jaw in a 4 jaw on the lathe. It does have a bit of wear on the flat ways (you can feel it if you run your fingernail across it) but it will be perfect for learning on and polishing up some things.


I was really surprised that both cars fit in the garage. I moved in one vehicle...started thinking about it...then thought "Wait, I can do this!"

I'm excited to get going on the floor.

 

[SpeedinLemon]

Glad to hear you weathered the storm! The garage is looking really good....those were some nice pics....a little different perspective. You've made a lot of progress in there. I don't envy you grinding that floor by hand, but hey, you're willing to put an EXL wheel on a bench grinder and pick it up like a hand tool....I think you'll be fine!

Keep up the great work.....and Happy Birthday!

 

[fergus]

Looking reaaaal good!
This shot really makes me want to ditch my workbench that extends 17 feet on one wall with my RAS in the middle:

Because 30 minutes after I clean it usually looks like this:

You know, covered in ****!

 

[fergus]

Let me also say that the workbench top turned out very nice. And the cabinets are also looking great. And please, take this as a complement: Although I didn't quite have your vision regarding the wood you chose to build the bench and cabinets with, it has all come together very nicely, like it really looks like it was meant to be. Then, when you consider that you did it on a budget, it adds a whole 'nuther dimension of awesome!

 

[mlucitt]

fergus,
My Father, RL's Grandfather, had the same DeWalt RAS. That thing was scary when you are barely old enough to see over the edge of the bench.

Old Leader

 

[fergus]

Hahaha! That's pretty good. Heck, its pretty scary when I run it now. We don't need no stinkin' Sawstop!

 

[Red Leader]

Those DeWalts rank right up there with some of the best Radial saws ever made. A couple of things to watch on them are the ways and the bearings. Worn ways don't mean a throwaway saw, but they can be several hundred dollars to get re-machined. Also, depending on the model, the bearings may or may not be available anymore. If they are, they could be expensive.

There was a standard DeWalt model (GWI maybe, it was a smaller model) that used the same bearings as some of the 1960s-1970s Craftsman radial saws, with a chamfered edge on the bearing surface. A company that has made a modern version of the DeWalts (The 'Original' Saw co, maybe?) does/did have bearings for this saw, but I don't know if they are still available. Sears carries these bearings, but at almost $30 a bearing, it is at least a $120 proposition.

 

[Red Leader]

fergus,
My Father, RL's Grandfather, had the same DeWalt RAS. That thing was scary when you are barely old enough to see over the edge of the bench.

Old Leader

Glad to have you on board

 

[Red Leader]

Let me also say that the workbench top turned out very nice. And the cabinets are also looking great. And please, take this as a complement: Although I didn't quite have your vision regarding the wood you chose to build the bench and cabinets with, it has all come together very nicely, like it really looks like it was meant to be. Then, when you consider that you did it on a budget, it adds a whole 'nuther dimension of awesome!

I appreciate your kind words! They really do motivate me! The workbench top could look a lot nicer, but it is begging for action and not more fluff at this point. Once I have the bench all put together I'll probably do a few more coats on it.

The budget thing has been interesting haha, but it has really helped me be creative and look for deals. If you have a local Habitat store, that is a great place to start - and to check often.

If I had to do this a second time around, I would do it a little differently. I would have dimensioned the lumber properly. Also, I've seen some incredibly nice cedar timber at the store that would look amazing with a finish on it - still might have to grab some and use it for something.

There are so many neat ideas out there and especially what some other guys have done that its hard to pick and choose. I hope that this thread is an inspiration to those who don't have a lot of budget or skills to work with (like me) and that helps them realize that they can still do it.

 

[fergus]

Those DeWalts rank right up there with some of the best Radial saws ever made. A couple of things to watch on them are the ways and the bearings. Worn ways don't mean a throwaway saw, but they can be several hundred dollars to get re-machined. Also, depending on the model, the bearings may or may not be available anymore. If they are, they could be expensive.

There was a standard DeWalt model (GWI maybe, it was a smaller model) that used the same bearings as some of the 1960s-1970s Craftsman radial saws, with a chamfered edge on the bearing surface. A company that has made a modern version of the DeWalts (The 'Original' Saw co, maybe?) does/did have bearings for this saw, but I don't know if they are still available. Sears carries these bearings, but at almost $30 a bearing, it is at least a $120 proposition.

The ways are okay I guess...there is one spot on one of the ways that is slightly deformed, but it doesn't interfere with the operation much. The bearings are actually okay too...but they do have the chamfered edge, so that's good to know.

It cut terribly until I followed the factory manual tune-up procedure. Well, I never made it all the way through...it takes a few hours. But I did get as far as making sure everything is square - the table to the blade, the arm, the saw head on the two different planes of adjustment, sanded the table flat, etc. It cuts TEN TIMES BETTER now!

Its kind of cool to fiddle with something, whereby only through the efforts of ones tinkering, does the machine operate properly once again.

The Habitat Store rocks if you hit it just right. Almost bought one of the old Craftsman table saws for $15, but it was missing the motor. I didn't need anymore projects at the time, so I passed. Maybe next time.

What was the name of that RAS you wanted so badly? Red Star or something like that?

 

[Red Leader]

What was the name of that RAS you wanted so badly? Red Star or something like that?

Yep, Red Star

 

[Red Leader]

It's time.

 

[Climb On!]

Be sure to bust out the knee pads.

 

[Jack Olsen]

And a respirator.

 

[Red Leader]

Be sure to bust out the knee pads.

Check.

And a respirator.

Check.

Thanks guys for having my back

 

[tinbender 66]

Hoo boy! You have my sympathy.

 

[Wingnut65]

And Ibuprophen for the back aches... I feel for ya.

Congrats on the next adventures in the project. Nice setup for the vac system.

 

[mdbeck1]

...and eye and ear protection...

I did that once... ...in a SMALL room without ventilation.

You need more fans.

 

[Red Leader]

...and eye and ear protection...

Check and check. I'm using 'best practices' on this one.


Fortunately with the vacuum hooked up, there is minimal dust, or at least a lot less than there would be otherwise.

 

[machine_punk]

Is that a homemade dust collecting shroud? (if so, cool...)

M_P

 

[fergus]

Oh COOL you got the Red Star!

Good luck with that floor. May the Schwartz be with you.

 

[Red Leader]

Is that a homemade dust collecting shroud? (if so, cool...)

M_P

Yep, duct-work and duct-tape!

 

[Red Leader]

Oh COOL you got the Red Star!

Good luck with that floor. May the Schwartz be with you.

 

[shopnut]

Good luck with the floor grinding. If it's anything like working with sheetrock dust, be ready to clean out the vac filter often. It may clog in a matter of minutes.

Looking forward to seeing an epoxied floor soon!

 

[flybefree]

RL,

Please get an action shot or video of this project....should be some epic amounts of dust!

Shaun