Prestressed panels are unloaded for cottage #7.

The panels create the floor over the basement.

(September 2, 2005)

A panel is lowered into position.

Prestressed concrete was chosen for the decking because of its strength, durability, fire and storm protection and competitive cost with a wooden floor system.

A two-inch top topping on the panels creates a smooth surface for flooring materials.

Cottage #7 is now ready for framing.

(September 9, 2005)

Framing begins on cottage #7.

(September 12, 2005)

The walls of all the cottages are 6 inches thick to form the cavities for a well-insulated building.

Cottage #7 is ready for the second story.

(September 14, 2005)

Merry Lea staff member, Hal Kiester, prepares part of the overall building site for seeding on September 12, 2005.

Preventing soil erosion has been an important commitment throughout the construction process.

Dry weather means that there has not been erosion by water, but it has made it difficult to start a a cover crop.

The 15,000 gallon cistern for collecting rain water has been poured.

The top will be poured in place after some back filling with soil occurs.

(September 12, 2005)

The windows have been installed in cottages #3 and #4.

(September 12, 2005)

The windows are triple glazed in a fiberglass frame. The result is an outstanding, energy efficient window.

Advantages of the Thermotech windows include: Condensation protection is dramatically better than double glazing.

They insulate up to 60% better than a low e argon gas filled double glazed window.

Thermal comfort is improved as there is 80% less radiation heat transfer between glass and room.

The cost starts at 5% more than double glazing.