GTF Remodel Project (Gonna Take Forever)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Vic and Aleta, the new stars of HGTV, are remodeling homes in Vista, CA, starting with this one, and singlehandedly elevating property values. Watch them turn a crack den into a lovely studio with a backsplash to die for and a lovely garden that produces fresh produce. Tune in and tune up your home remodeling skills. And don’t forget to look for the zany couple’s spinoff items—a furniture line, a magazine, T-shirts, home goods, Aleta’s unique handmade jewelry, and even a craft beer called, The VBAR BREW.

The GTF House

Built in early 1950’s
Approximately 1500 sq ft
Three small bedrooms, one bathroom
Garage was converted to a family room in the 1970’s
Carport added in the 1980s
Deck off the living room in the back of the house added in the 1980’s

The Beginning: August-September 2019

Demolition Begins - August 17

Here comes the activity I’ve been simultaneously eagerly anticipating and dreading: demolition. It started with a lead paint abatement on the eaves and roof of the space that was my jewelry studio/laundry/cat feeding station/mud room. Then the big boy wrecking crew arrived. After two and a half days of watching my house literally being torn to shreds, suddenly all stop. Asbestos is suspected, and of course, found.

Digging for the Foundation - September 5

Asbestos has been safely removed and now the dirt is being moved around. Vic couldn’t wait and decided to take matters into his own hands.

Prep foundation for concrete – Sept 10-20

More trenching, install pipes to the sewer from laundry, craft room, master bath. After two more inspections, ready to pour!

September 24 – Can you dig it?

Major excavation has begun on the garage site. Extensive concrete removal and prep for a large fill area that will raise the level of the former grotto area by about five feet to accommodate the two car garage. Surprises while digging include a level of stone and concrete rubble where Mr. Al Dirdo filled in the area to create a carport back in the 60’s.

Today’s inspection of the prepped area behind main house resulted in a notice to make some adjustments to the foundation supports. Not sure if this will cause a delay but doesn’t appear so.

Front left corner of future garage

View from fill area

Dig we must

oops

September 25 – Hole Lotta Love

The garage excavation continues, reaching frightening depths. Geologically, there’s a layer of soft clay about four feet down. Archaeologically, an ancient leach field of river rocks from a long dormant septic system. No wonder the old orange trees are so strong.

September 30 – Pour me a double

Concrete pouring today! It feels like progress. This is a whole lotta concrete, too! An electrical box for a floor outlet was installed, preventing the need for cutting a channel in the floor later. This is important because plans are to have a polished concrete final flooring.