Approaching Passive Home DIY Renovation

So much progress over the last few days. The graco xr7 airless sprayer helps a lot.

There are definitely some issues with some popped drywall screws and thick seams but at this point they’re reminders that I still have room to improve.

Skip the Carousel

1 2 3 4 5

4 weeks ago | [YT] | 1

Approaching Passive Home DIY Renovation

‪@HomeRenoVisionDIY‬ - my wife knows you as my Canadian dad. 😂 Incredibly helpful for ALL HOME OWNERS.

‪@FixThisHouse‬ - three way switch video was epic. Helped me prep for the various three ways in this project.

QUICK UPDATE

We took a weekend off for a quick NYC trip — just me and my wife, no kids. Needed the reset. The moment we got back, the schedule picked up fast and there wasn’t room to set up a proper timelapse for this phase of the build.

So here’s a simple before-and-in-progress look.

NOW FOR THE MONOLOGUE

People ask how I manage ALL of this.

The renovation, the planning, the work, the parenting and honestly the answer shows up in moments like this.

I’ve been up since five after maybe four hours of sleep. Prepped the space for the drywall installers. Checked the wiring. Calibrated the lighting. Watched the room start to transform piece by piece. It’s a lot to hold, but it’s the kind of work that builds momentum.

And even with all of that, at 6:30 p.m., I still made the bed.

Not because it mattered to the project.
Not because anyone asked.
But because it’s one of the few small actions that keeps me grounded when everything else is in motion.

My wife always says, “embrace the chaos.”

She’s right.

Especially with kids. But my way of staying steady is different. I create order inside the chaos: a made bed, a clean sink, an early morning. Simple anchors that remind me I’m still steering the day.

This renovation is pushing every system in my life; time, patience, planning, energy.

But that’s exactly why I hold on to the small daily rituals.

They keep everything else sharp.

More details and a full walkthrough are on the way.

For now, here’s the latest snapshot of the progress.

Skip the Carousel

1 2 3 4 5

1 month ago | [YT] | 2

Approaching Passive Home DIY Renovation

David does a good job. 8964

6 months ago | [YT] | 0

Approaching Passive Home DIY Renovation

Progress Update – Yay!

The roof is officially DONE — huge milestone.

Now we’re focused on detailing out the window accents as we continue dialing in this Southern California Modern Zen aesthetic: white smooth stucco walls (a nod to classic Spanish style), contrasted with black trim and accents to bring in that clean, modern edge.

The minimalism reflects our values: simplicity, clarity, and peace.

The black accents lean modern but also honor the Zen aesthetic and my wife’s cultural roots. It’s our way of making the space feel calm, centered, and grounded — inside and out.

We’ve got a few more work days before we pause for some family travel at the start of summer, but I wanted to share how good it feels to hit this point. Over 1,000 subscribers now on the channel, steady momentum, and it really reinforces a powerful truth:

When your purpose, goals, and actions are aligned — progress accelerates.

Thanks for following along. More updates coming soon.

Rendered using Ai. 😅

Skip the Carousel

1 2 3 4

6 months ago | [YT] | 0

Approaching Passive Home DIY Renovation

Hi.
You can also find me on BlueSky @clgfather.bsky.social.

More updates coming - you are all truly appreciated.

8 months ago | [YT] | 0

Approaching Passive Home DIY Renovation

Why Is There Frost on My Roof?

Ever wonder why your roof has frost on those chilly mornings?

Is it a sign of trouble, or is it perfectly normal?

Let’s break it down.

What Causes Frost on a Roof?

Frost forms when your roof’s surface gets colder than the surrounding air, causing moisture to freeze. It’s most common on clear, calm nights when your roof loses heat to the sky through a process called radiative cooling.

Even Frost Across Your Roof?
That’s a Good Thing!

If you see an even layer of frost, it means:
1. Your Insulation is Working: Heat isn’t escaping unevenly.

2. No Major Air Leaks: Warm air isn’t sneaking through gaps and melting frost in patches.

3. No Thermal Bridging: Your roof doesn’t have weak spots where heat bypasses insulation.

Even frost distribution means your roof is doing its job!

When Frost Becomes a Concern

While frost itself isn’t harmful, it can highlight issues like:

- Patchy Frost: May signal heat leaks or poor insulation.

- No Frost at All: Could mean your roof is losing too much heat.

- Ice Dams: If frost leads to melting and refreezing at the eaves, it’s time to check your ventilation and insulation.

What You Can Do

Here’s how to keep your roof performing at its best:
1. Seal Air Leaks: Check for gaps around vents, chimneys, or skylights.

2. Boost Insulation: Make sure your roof or attic is properly insulated.

3. Improve Ventilation: Balance intake and exhaust to prevent moisture buildup and keep temperatures consistent.

4. Use Thermal Imaging: A professional energy audit can pinpoint any hidden problems.

The Bottom Line

If frost covers your roof evenly, you’re in good shape. It’s a natural result of weather and shows your roof is performing consistently.

Uneven frost or secondary issues like ice dams?

Time to investigate further.

Hit that subscribe button and stay tuned for tips that save money and improve your home! Let me know in the comments if you’ve noticed frost on your roof!

11 months ago | [YT] | 0

Approaching Passive Home DIY Renovation

This is a thermal bridge. 😳

Condensation-soaked windows can lead to mold and damage—but upgrading isn’t always possible. A simple fix?

Ensure there’s proper insulation between the window and framing.

Use materials like:
- Insulation or backer rod
- Spray foam to seal gaps

If you’re replacing windows, avoid metal frames where possible, as they transfer heat and cold more easily.

Small steps like these improve comfort, prevent mold, and protect your home.

#HomeImprovement #EnergyEfficiency #HealthyLiving #PassiveHouse

1 year ago | [YT] | 0

Approaching Passive Home DIY Renovation

Tented for Fumigation
As part of our ongoing renovation, the house is being tented to ensure it’s ready for the next phase. While that’s happening, we’re taking some time to recharge during the holiday break.

I’ll share periodic updates while we’re away—looking forward to diving into more progress in the new year.

#HomeRenovation #ApproachingPassive

1 year ago | [YT] | 0

Approaching Passive Home DIY Renovation

A major underlying reason for renovating my parents house was to help prepare for a fully electric house tied to a generous set of batteries.

The more efficient the home with respects to insulation, air flow, and mechanical systems the LESS energy it requires to maintain at comfortable levels.

1 year ago | [YT] | 0