I am a beginner to woodwork, the main test I have with this bundle ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxTNB_zFBSnTo_O1PqfVUwgi7ityw0JlKt is that I think that its hard to settle on a choice of the plan and outline to use as there are a large portion of them there. Nonetheless, I like the simple stride to step directions laid out there.
My grandpa was a carpenter. A real badass old school guy, could build and fix anything. I spent a lot of my childhood hanging out with him after school watching him work, and he always took the time to teach me as he was working. Watching these videos kinda reminds me of that feeling. Thank you!
I wish we could team a high schooler/middle schooler with such a carpenter. The kid would see how what they are learning at school applies to the real world and why they should be paying attention.
@@bcase5328 as someone who's taking carpentry and a few months in, school has had very little importance, because it's a very standardized standard set for literally everyone. This means so much of it is but a waste of time. At most the information that is useful for what I'm doing could've been learnt without the need for intermediate and high school. Some things just aren't important, and the system is just... outdated. Made to produce factory workers more than anything.
When I was 14 years, I went to work for my neighbor during summers, weekends. and holidays building houses. I then began working for his brother doing the same thing up to through summer after high school graduation and going into the Air Force. Those two brothers made a carpenter and an all around builder out of me. One hot summer day when I was seventeen, I worked furiously hand mixing mortar and carrying brick to one of those gentlemen, who laid them as fast as I moved them. He stopped for a minute, looked at me, grinned and said, "Some day, you're going to look back and be glad that you did all this hard work and learned these things I've taught you." Jr. Shreve has since passed on to be with the Lord, and here I am at 56 years old with his prophetic words of wisdom still clear as it was yesterday. I am forever grateful for all that hard work and the skills I have today.
At 69 I’ve finally gotten to where I have a full time helper. It’s frustrating at times, young helper with no experience, but I find that, overall, jobs go quicker and easier. Just in job set up and tear down, getting all the tools out of the trailer and then putting them away, clean up, moving lumber, snapping lines etc. having an extra hand is so nice. Yup, I did it all alone most of my life but now I’m liking it. It’s expensive, workman’s comp rates are crazy and the whole system isn’t small business friendly, but I’m not ready for the rocking chair so I’ll do whatever it takes to keep building.
Thank you for posting this series. In about a year, I'm going to be building a 30x50 post and beam shop alone and I appreciate the confidence you show doing this. I'm 63 and two years ago built a 14x8 post and beam shed by myself, except for hiring a guy to do the roof because I hate heights. My neighbors ask me how I do all the projects I do. I tell them I'm not in a hurry, I take breaks as I need to. And old guys work smarter, not harder. We find ways to use leverage and hold downs and cleats and all kinds of tricks to not have to have another person or use a lot of energy. Thanks for showing a few more tricks. I had to laugh about your comment about being able to do this at 63. I plan to keep up the good work into my 70s by learning new tricks and working smarter. And watching your videos, you young whipper snapper. I might need to buy a crane though...
Interesting. I'm 67 now, just before hurricane Sandy I built a shed in the backyard, 14' x 7' x 7'. It had to be put in 1 to 2 hours at a time after work every day. I put up wood scaffolding myself, and screwed to the sides. The weatherman said it was going to go west of me, but it didn't. I had to go like a mad person to close it in before it got to me. Literally 1 1/2 hours before it arrived I put house wrap over the roof sheathing. No time for shingles. Everything was fine through the storm.
@@firesurfer Ophelia gave me the impetus to side out my workshop. And that temporary sheeting remains to this day! Just good enough to keep the weather out...
I found your channel when the bipap video popped up. I was tickled by that one. Now I'm fond of the rest of the content. Great jokes, greater skills and a wonderful vocabulary. Thanks for being you.
As someone that works alone nearly all of the time I can't agree more with you about forward planning and preparation. Taking 5 min to make a jig, place some nails or bracing can turn a nightmare into a dream and in ghe long run saves time. It took me a long time and alog of sweat to learn that lesson. Really enjoying this series. Thank you.
I’ve been on a site, alone, for almost a year. Since I tend to want to live with my body intact, I figured out how to do things with the lowest risk. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Watching this just pisses me off. You do such a perfect job Scott, and finding people to do a job even remotely this correct is so hard to come by. Keep up the amazing work and I hope you are an inspiration to many.
Amen! Fantastic to solve problems - my favourite was how to move 9 very heavy, wet, 5'x4' reclaimed mahogany panels from my car, through my house, to the back yard. Eureka - my eight year Old daughters plastic skateboard🤫
I used the figure for the density of fir as 33 pounds per cubic foot, many times while framing my current house build. Just 20 minutes away from where Scott (Essential Craftsman) lives. :) As far as finding plumb on the walls, I bought a Stabila plate level that checks plumb from top to bottom plate. It eliminates any bow of your studs.I had two framers on my job who LOVED the tool and want to get one for themselves.
i am amazed by your skills , i built a 24 by 40 Dutch barn mainly by myself and it took me six months in my spare time but that was when i was in my early 40's .Now at 69 i am still building things but with the help of my daughter as i cannot lift what i used to.
At the moment I am building my own house alone, as I know what i am doing, it is amazing how many things I am learning due to various factors during the build. Sometimes in a construction site you dont do certain operations at all and even if you know how to do them you dont know by expertise of doing it, just in theory. The amount of brainstorming I have to do in solve problems makes me think If I am not learning again this trade:) especially that i make this house in a country with little timber frame industry. Building my own house, alone or with very little help of my family it is important to me, as legacy and as experience. I really do appreciate your videos, I`ve learn some tricks or tehniques and I Thank you for that!
I’ve a friend who is 84 and still builds house. Not because he needs to for money but because he needs to for sanity sake. He says he can’t just sit at home. He’s one tough dude.
As my old man used to say, "Old age and treachery, usually defeats youth and skill." Experience, over time, stops being that thing that you discover just after you need it and becomes one more tool in the box.
Insider Carpentry's Spencer also works solo. And he, too, does some incredible work as a one man band. Love watching the problem solving as much as the building part. TY!
Glad to see double trimmers still being used. Took a look at some houses with much larger spans taking roof load with single trimmers and single kings, got nervous just standing there if there had been a breeze I’d have run
These are great inspiring videos. My wife and I are starting to build a new house around April 1 (April Fools Day?), and while we’ll be two of a four-person framing crew, it’s likely we’ll be on our own on weekends and when the other two, the pros, are sometimes busy elsewhere. So we’re having a good close look at everything you’re showing us. Thanks!
I hang a lot of drywall by myself... Im a small guy 5'7" 155 wet.. do the math Type X weighs more than I do. being able and understanding how to move heavy things efficiently to be productive is a skill that most people don't think about.. it makes me think of when you were building that wheelchair ramp at your mom's house on how to be productive the company I work for showed that are safety meeting the year you posted it on UA-cam and I've been following your videos ever since! think safety, and keep up the good work!
My old pal GiG 77 just built a big two story stick frame roof house by him self. Sheathing and all 🤯. Said he couldn't find a carpenter that could tell him anything about point loads. Or how to build a roof. Not using trusses. You guys are tough. Nice work!
I bet you slept well that night brother. I work alone with a lot of tricks now, almost ready to retire but I will not quit. I started out with 16s and 7s in my bag before air was invented
Hi, I saw you with the garage beam laying flat on the saw stooles/ tressles and it made me remember when I was heavily into bulding house frames ( Australia) when I was a contractor and I tried to make every minute count. When I ever had to prepare a beam, I'd check for bow first ( as you do) ( keeping the beam ,bow upwards , if it has a bow) So instead of pencil writing the word ' top', I would just do a few squiggle marks along the beam top face. I understood that, to indicate' top' and quicker speed to do a few squiggles along the beam , than time to write T O P along the beam. I know it's not a significant time saving , but all the little ' tricks' do add up in saving time
You, as a sole proprietor with a crew of one are not covered under OSHA regulations. There is a minimum workforce as stated in the OSHA regulations that are mandated to follow the regulations. Just the process you usually use to think through the task before you start, coupled with your experience will probably be sufficient to keep you safe and the structure secure. Thanks for the great content.
I'm a 61 year old East Coast carpenter, and one of my sons works with me often.I still like to work and learn, but my body doesn't let me do what I did when I was younger-----Scott's shop is superb!
I'm 70 and just finished helping my son-in-law build a very similar shop. I hate to be critical but you left out one very important thing, nap time. After about five hours I would hit the wall as they say, and need a power nap, 😆
I'm amazed on how well you work and how well you've kept your body. I started construction at 15yrs old, I'm 38 now and let me tell you.... I hurt. Keep up the good work!!!
I did too until I stopped eating bread,corn syrup and processed foods. Meat,veggies and fruit now,a little fatigue at end of day but recovered after a good night's sleep!
I do mainly renovations, offices and houses, sometimes fairly large renos, but not full house builds. Being in downtown Tokyo I don't get the chance to build sheds or garages/workshops. I too mainly work alone, but I have to say on the jobs where we have to hump 40 or 50 sheets of drywall up three flights of stairs, I get a couple of young guys to help me those days LOL. I'm a bit younger than Scott at 58, but my knees are not so great anymore too many injuries playing football and riding dirtbikes in my youth. You learn a lot of workarounds working alone, I'm sure I could learn even more by spending time with Scott. Great content, love these videos.
Love your can do ingenuity. I grew up in Creston, BC and high school in Bonners Ferry, ID. Thanks to my dad building our 3 homes over the years on 35 acres at edge of towns,, instead of city slickers,, I learned the same things you show. He was graduate forester, timber resource mgr for sawmills = built the roads, got logs to mills. Homesteaded to teach us kids work ethic and facts of life via animal husbandry. It worked = best life ever. You and he are twins in all aspects. That's why I love your videos. I'm 76 now, 47 years of heavy construction mngmnt all over US building nukes, refineries, prisons, etc. You are 110% right on. 1 tip = put plumb bob in bucket of water to slow down oscillation. Thanks again this breed is becoming rare in world of button pushers. I'm eagle scout, certified challenge course builder now retired in Salt Lake area and can do all your stuff too except blacksmith, thanks to my dad.
I appreciate seeing an "older" craftsmen like myself and speak common sense and logic when it comes to safety. If you need an agency to monitor your safety, your doing it wrong. Also, it is incredible to see that us old guys get it done, solo, all while being ridiculed by young bucks, but respected, regardless. Tip: I shoot my walls with a laser, mark the corners, snap a line for the sheathing. Keeps it honest. I have enjoyed this channel for years. As you were, hard working sir.
I'm 70 and I construct docks in alligator infested waters in Florida, you just keep your hammer ready in case one starts getting nosy which they will, esp the large ones. You are young with many years ahead of you, you seem to be in very good shape.
I live in lake havasu az, been framing forever. I also build tall garages by myself. We both frame identical even carry same tools in the exact same place in our bags. I also am a mag 77 and hattachi guy. The only thing I see we do different is I run my osb vertically where you run yours horizontal. I've picked up a few new tricks from you, thanks.
There’s something about watching your videos that are calming in a way I haven’t experienced on UA-cam. This is, in my opinion, some of the finest content on this platform. Your humbleness and willingness to take on new things is inspiring… Keep up the great work ✊thank you for taking the extra effort to share your experiences.
Suggestion: 8:06 if you made the plumb-bob jig with a 2-1/4” stand off from each wall rather than 3” you could use your long level as a gauge block instead of cutting lumber. A level is lighter and guaranteed straight unlike dimensional lumber. Fabulous video series!!!
Hmmmmm, appreciate the slight undercuts to ease installation I'd probably have made maybe the 3rd or 4th block just right to keep everything tight. That's just my way.
Coming from a bloke in Australia, that learnt his trade (electrical) from my dad for 15yrs, he's now retired but still sticks his head in from time to time. I just love watching your content because it comes from a time where a job worth doing is worth doing well. People don't always appreciate it these days! Thanks for the good work mate 👍
Great video as ever Scott. One little tip that may speed things up when using a plumb bob, is to let the bob hang into a pot of water. It will still hang perfectly plumb, but will be less susceptible to the wind and minor knocks.
Really love the insight and then the captioned math. Such an incredible channel with hugely helpful skill sharing and even just alternate thought processes are awesome to hear. Thanks for all the work you do capturing this and editing videos to take us along
Scott-Bravo!! I''m sure there are times when you feel that you could get more done if you didn't have to facetime with your camera. Just know that when you take the time to explain - even the simplest things - I know you are talking to me and thousands of other you tube viewers. Your style & practical solutions really showcse a lifetime of experience and problem solving. I also spent my youth with a beloved grandfather who was a working carpenter & farmer in Indiana. The lessons he taught me are still with me today - in my 70's. Thank you and keep up your good work.
Hi again, If I ever had to make a house frame onsite , instead of prefab ( frame made in factory/ semi'd to site), I always liked to have on hand ,the truss plan layout . It helped in working out wall stud positions that could place a stud directly under a truss ( actually 35mm; 1 1/2 "offset from a truss postion [ except girder trusses where real direct support is better], due to using a metal cyclone ' over strap ,that would sit right next to truss as opposed to not directly under truss, thus messing with nailing of truss footcut/toe to extra top plate.
I just found you on UA-cam a couple of days ago while searching “anvil”. I went back to the beginning (6yrs ago) and watched the 1st dozen videos or so. It didn’t take me long to realize that you’re the guy who’s forgotten more than I’ll ever know 😊. Not that I’m an idiot or incapable ( my wife calls me McGyver); but you are a treasure trove of information. Thanks for sharing.
All this talk of working alone. I cant help but think about the crazy framer. I'll have to see what hes up to. I dare say he is the king of building alone.
Talking about cutting the blocking on the exact measurement: We build houses that are pre-cut. The problem is that so often some of the blocking needs to be trimmed, because it's theoretical length doesn't add up with reality, because it assumes everything is perfect when in fact boards cup, or are otherwise not always angled exactly at 90.0 degrees from whatever it's fastened to. This confirms my belief that blocking cannot be the exact theoretical length if you have a series of them.
13:43 is EC at his finest! The little ramp to help slide the gluelam in place was so clever. Well done, as always Scott. Skill and experience equals expertise. Keep up the good work!
Mr essential craftsman I'm 63 so I spend most my time watching others build can't say I don't enjoy it my back appreciates it but I get a call every once in awhile to help family or friends that have really messed something up (underbid or just can't do it right) and I'm glad it's that way love watching your videos keep up the good work haha have a Blessed Day
I'm a one man Concrete Contractor, and I've also been crafting and tweaking my systems and procedures for one man operation. Most people don't even believe that I do 90% of all of my work alone. Proper systems and procedures is certainly the key
watching you work is a real joy,,,,,,,i wish my back gets better so i can do some work again, i am retired and 68,,,,,,,,i really miss working,,,,,,,,i was a cabinet maker and installer and did carpentry on the side,,,,,,,,,,,i still have a habit of going to home depot at least twice a week or more.,,,,,,,,,,i have job offers but my back wont let me work a steady job,,,,,,,i need to sit down every 5 minutes but i am working to get better,,,,,,,,,,anyway watching you is soul soothing,,,thanks
On your advice I got a Mag77 about three years ago. I traded it out for the Makita 18vX2 rear handle circ saw. It’s pretty good. The mag 77 was much heavier.
Very impressive how he throws the 4x8 sheets up there an doesn't have to force it at all to butt up against the sheet next to it. Or even fighting it a little bit to make sure he is half way on nailer stud thus way next sheet has room to butt up against and have room all the way up & down the 48inch side.
Scott, you're just an inspiration to us all to keep going. Working alone is a regular habit for us old guys and counting on help not much in the way of our thinking. Age and experience determine whether or not we tackle jobs like this one. More often than not, we "Believe" we can do it. And so, we keep going. It's great to see you think your way through problems working alone. Stay Safe and keep up the good fight.
I always pick up some knowledge when I watch you work. Sometimes it’s not what your saying. There will never be a substitute for experience. I’m in the middle of replacing roof trusses on my entire tri-level home by myself. I appreciate seeing you tackling a job by yourself.
Watched my dad work alone framing houses for years. Last one he did solo was 10k sq ft, 32’ cathedral ceilings. The guy he built it for told me he’d never seen anyone be able to think ahead and see the end product like my dad. If I’m lucky, I got a few of those genes. A good crane operator helped at times, but most of the work just took a little forethought. Thanks for the video. Love your content.
Nothing like receiving a master’s degree in carpentry, construction techniques and old fashioned wisdom from watching these videos. All of that gives me great comfort. Looking forward to the next one.
I often want to give up when working alone. Especially after failures. You've inspired me to day setting high beams for concrete forms on an elevate steel deck. Heading back out now.
Totally enjoy watching you work ,been doing this twenty yrs now ,can't count how many times I've built houses and garages by myself over the yrs ,also agree sometimes it's just easier ,you and Larry haun are so an inspiration to me as a rough carpenter
Have really liked your channel for several years now. I'm in Michigan- and with very little help (SIL when available) I have just gotten a 1200sqft shop watertite this past month. Many years ago I was a carpenter, desk job for 30 years and THIS video really touched my heart while watching, thank you! And keep up the good work!
Seriously thank you so much for all your videos. I’m in my 3rd year as an apprentice and your teaching is all practical and just in general helps me with my productivity thru the day. Keep up the work!
I love watching you work. I’m building my house and it’s going slowly since I do majority of the work alone so, I love watching your videos for motivation 😅
I am a beginner to woodwork, the main test I have with this bundle ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxTNB_zFBSnTo_O1PqfVUwgi7ityw0JlKt is that I think that its hard to settle on a choice of the plan and outline to use as there are a large portion of them there. Nonetheless, I like the simple stride to step directions laid out there.
I see essential craftsman video: I click
👌Miiiinnt
I see essential craftsman working hard: you know Nate’s taking a break somewhere in the shade with a cold beverage in hand
My grandpa was a carpenter. A real badass old school guy, could build and fix anything. I spent a lot of my childhood hanging out with him after school watching him work, and he always took the time to teach me as he was working. Watching these videos kinda reminds me of that feeling. Thank you!
I wish we could team a high schooler/middle schooler with such a carpenter. The kid would see how what they are learning at school applies to the real world and why they should be paying attention.
@@bcase5328 as someone who's taking carpentry and a few months in, school has had very little importance, because it's a very standardized standard set for literally everyone. This means so much of it is but a waste of time. At most the information that is useful for what I'm doing could've been learnt without the need for intermediate and high school. Some things just aren't important, and the system is just... outdated. Made to produce factory workers more than anything.
In this New Age, practical skills will be the most valuable.
Learn to fix and build things.
Did he also wear his suit to dinner?
@@Davey768 for no particular reason?
When I was 14 years, I went to work for my neighbor during summers, weekends. and holidays building houses. I then began working for his brother doing the same thing up to through summer after high school graduation and going into the Air Force. Those two brothers made a carpenter and an all around builder out of me. One hot summer day when I was seventeen, I worked furiously hand mixing mortar and carrying brick to one of those gentlemen, who laid them as fast as I moved them. He stopped for a minute, looked at me, grinned and said, "Some day, you're going to look back and be glad that you did all this hard work and learned these things I've taught you." Jr. Shreve has since passed on to be with the Lord, and here I am at 56 years old with his prophetic words of wisdom still clear as it was yesterday. I am forever grateful for all that hard work and the skills I have today.
At 69 I’ve finally gotten to where I have a full time helper. It’s frustrating at times, young helper with no experience, but I find that, overall, jobs go quicker and easier. Just in job set up and tear down, getting all the tools out of the trailer and then putting them away, clean up, moving lumber, snapping lines etc. having an extra hand is so nice. Yup, I did it all alone most of my life but now I’m liking it. It’s expensive, workman’s comp rates are crazy and the whole system isn’t small business friendly, but I’m not ready for the rocking chair so I’ll do whatever it takes to keep building.
Alone you can go fast, but with a team you can go far
Thank you for posting this series. In about a year, I'm going to be building a 30x50 post and beam shop alone and I appreciate the confidence you show doing this. I'm 63 and two years ago built a 14x8 post and beam shed by myself, except for hiring a guy to do the roof because I hate heights.
My neighbors ask me how I do all the projects I do. I tell them I'm not in a hurry, I take breaks as I need to. And old guys work smarter, not harder. We find ways to use leverage and hold downs and cleats and all kinds of tricks to not have to have another person or use a lot of energy.
Thanks for showing a few more tricks. I had to laugh about your comment about being able to do this at 63. I plan to keep up the good work into my 70s by learning new tricks and working smarter.
And watching your videos, you young whipper snapper.
I might need to buy a crane though...
Interesting. I'm 67 now, just before hurricane Sandy I built a shed in the backyard, 14' x 7' x 7'. It had to be put in 1 to 2 hours at a time after work every day. I put up wood scaffolding myself, and screwed to the sides. The weatherman said it was going to go west of me, but it didn't. I had to go like a mad person to close it in before it got to me. Literally 1 1/2 hours before it arrived I put house wrap over the roof sheathing. No time for shingles. Everything was fine through the storm.
@@firesurfer Ophelia gave me the impetus to side out my workshop. And that temporary sheeting remains to this day! Just good enough to keep the weather out...
I found your channel when the bipap video popped up. I was tickled by that one. Now I'm fond of the rest of the content. Great jokes, greater skills and a wonderful vocabulary. Thanks for being you.
Man I love watching and listening to you work
You’re swinging that hammer back in your tool belt like a Magnum 45. Keep up that beautiful craftsmanship sir!
As someone that works alone nearly all of the time I can't agree more with you about forward planning and preparation. Taking 5 min to make a jig, place some nails or bracing can turn a nightmare into a dream and in ghe long run saves time. It took me a long time and alog of sweat to learn that lesson. Really enjoying this series. Thank you.
Every shop class in America should play these videos!
The Essential Craftsman is building to the standard known as "good enough "
I’ve been on a site, alone, for almost a year. Since I tend to want to live with my body intact, I figured out how to do things with the lowest risk. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Watching this just pisses me off. You do such a perfect job Scott, and finding people to do a job even remotely this correct is so hard to come by. Keep up the amazing work and I hope you are an inspiration to many.
I've worked alone for so many years I can't imagine having help. There's always a way to get it done solo.
Working solo does make a person think more too....
Amen! Fantastic to solve problems - my favourite was how to move 9 very heavy, wet, 5'x4' reclaimed mahogany panels from my car, through my house, to the back yard. Eureka - my eight year Old daughters plastic skateboard🤫
Same here, I almost get cold sweats thinking about hiring someone else to help me...haha.
I prefer working solo. I would have been done sooner but I had help.
To each their own, I get what you're saying.
But having 3 guys on a job, the production goes way way up.
I used the figure for the density of fir as 33 pounds per cubic foot, many times while framing my current house build. Just 20 minutes away from where Scott (Essential Craftsman) lives. :)
As far as finding plumb on the walls, I bought a Stabila plate level that checks plumb from top to bottom plate. It eliminates any bow of your studs.I had two framers on my job who LOVED the tool and want to get one for themselves.
It is both a pleasure and inspiration to watch you and know that the older guys can still get it done. Thanks for sharing.
The essential craftsman motto: winter is comming. 🐺
i am amazed by your skills , i built a 24 by 40 Dutch barn mainly by myself and it took me six months in my spare time but that was when i was in my early 40's .Now at 69 i am still building things but with the help of my daughter as i cannot lift what i used to.
Liked, subscribed, and commented. EC is easily one of the best channels on UA-cam. Thanks for sharing!
At the moment I am building my own house alone, as I know what i am doing, it is amazing how many things I am learning due to various factors during the build. Sometimes in a construction site you dont do certain operations at all and even if you know how to do them you dont know by expertise of doing it, just in theory. The amount of brainstorming I have to do in solve problems makes me think If I am not learning again this trade:) especially that i make this house in a country with little timber frame industry. Building my own house, alone or with very little help of my family it is important to me, as legacy and as experience. I really do appreciate your videos, I`ve learn some tricks or tehniques and I Thank you for that!
I’ve a friend who is 84 and still builds house. Not because he needs to for money but because he needs to for sanity sake. He says he can’t just sit at home. He’s one tough dude.
I've never seen a video before, with likes nearly matching view counts. Incredible content by EC as always!
13:50 here in Belgium we would be with 6 people, 2 cranes and 7 permits. After work, 4 out of 6 men are 2 years on sick payroll.
Only six people? Who puts out the orange cones?
As my old man used to say, "Old age and treachery, usually defeats youth and skill."
Experience, over time, stops being that thing that you discover just after you need it and becomes one more tool in the box.
Insider Carpentry's Spencer also works solo. And he, too, does some incredible work as a one man band. Love watching the problem solving as much as the building part. TY!
Glad to see double trimmers still being used. Took a look at some houses with much larger spans taking roof load with single trimmers and single kings, got nervous just standing there if there had been a breeze I’d have run
These are great inspiring videos. My wife and I are starting to build a new house around April 1 (April Fools Day?), and while we’ll be two of a four-person framing crew, it’s likely we’ll be on our own on weekends and when the other two, the pros, are sometimes busy elsewhere. So we’re having a good close look at everything you’re showing us. Thanks!
Scott always reminds me of the warden on Shawshank redemption.
I hang a lot of drywall by myself... Im a small guy 5'7" 155 wet.. do the math Type X weighs more than I do. being able and understanding how to move heavy things efficiently to be productive is a skill that most people don't think about.. it makes me think of when you were building that wheelchair ramp at your mom's house on how to be productive the company I work for showed that are safety meeting the year you posted it on UA-cam and I've been following your videos ever since! think safety, and keep up the good work!
As a professional rock hanger for many years, true, it's all in learning how to move the sheets.
My old pal GiG 77 just built a big two story stick frame roof house by him self. Sheathing and all 🤯.
Said he couldn't find a carpenter that could tell him anything about point loads. Or how to build a roof. Not using trusses.
You guys are tough.
Nice work!
I bet you slept well that night brother. I work alone with a lot of tricks now, almost ready to retire but I will not quit. I started out with 16s and 7s in my bag before air was invented
Hi, I saw you with the garage beam laying flat on the saw stooles/ tressles and it made me remember when I was heavily into bulding house frames ( Australia) when I was a contractor and I tried to make every minute count. When I ever had to prepare a beam, I'd check for bow first ( as you do) ( keeping the beam ,bow upwards , if it has a bow) So instead of pencil writing the word ' top', I would just do a few squiggle marks along the beam top face. I understood that, to indicate' top' and quicker speed to do a few squiggles along the beam , than time to write T O P along the beam. I know it's not a significant time saving , but all the little ' tricks' do add up in saving time
Now I can see how the pyramids might have been accomplished with men like Essential Craftsman getting it done !!!
You, as a sole proprietor with a crew of one are not covered under OSHA regulations. There is a minimum workforce as stated in the OSHA regulations that are mandated to follow the regulations.
Just the process you usually use to think through the task before you start, coupled with your experience will probably be sufficient to keep you safe and the structure secure.
Thanks for the great content.
My favorite part of these videos is EC’s resistance and then reluctant acknowledgment of the legitimacy of battery operated circular saws. 😂
Just started my own framing company up in Canada, been building houses alone for years cause not many new people want to learn the trade, frame on!
I'm a 61 year old East Coast carpenter, and one of my sons works with me often.I still like to work and learn, but my body doesn't let me do what I did when I was younger-----Scott's shop is superb!
I am the same my body hurts just watching this . Our health is so important.
Your a legend, up there with larry haun in my bookes easily.
I'm 70 and just finished helping my son-in-law build a very similar shop. I hate to be critical but you left out one very important thing, nap time. After about five hours I would hit the wall as they say, and need a power nap, 😆
Excellent video, I'm almost 61,been working alone for years,hope to continue till at least 70
I'm amazed on how well you work and how well you've kept your body.
I started construction at 15yrs old, I'm 38 now and let me tell you.... I hurt. Keep up the good work!!!
I did too until I stopped eating bread,corn syrup and processed foods. Meat,veggies and fruit now,a little fatigue at end of day but recovered after a good night's sleep!
I do mainly renovations, offices and houses, sometimes fairly large renos, but not full house builds. Being in downtown Tokyo I don't get the chance to build sheds or garages/workshops.
I too mainly work alone, but I have to say on the jobs where we have to hump 40 or 50 sheets of drywall up three flights of stairs, I get a couple of young guys to help me those days LOL. I'm a bit younger than Scott at 58, but my knees are not so great anymore too many injuries playing football and riding dirtbikes in my youth.
You learn a lot of workarounds working alone, I'm sure I could learn even more by spending time with Scott.
Great content, love these videos.
Love your can do ingenuity. I grew up in Creston, BC and high school in Bonners Ferry, ID. Thanks to my dad building our 3 homes over the years on 35 acres at edge of towns,, instead of city slickers,, I learned the same things you show. He was graduate forester, timber resource mgr for sawmills = built the roads, got logs to mills.
Homesteaded to teach us kids work ethic and facts of life via animal husbandry.
It worked = best life ever. You and he are twins in all aspects. That's why I love your videos.
I'm 76 now, 47 years of heavy construction mngmnt all over US building nukes, refineries, prisons, etc.
You are 110% right on.
1 tip = put plumb bob in bucket of water to slow down oscillation. Thanks again this breed is becoming rare in world of button pushers. I'm eagle scout, certified challenge course builder now retired in Salt Lake area and can do all your stuff too except blacksmith, thanks to my dad.
I appreciate seeing an "older" craftsmen like myself and speak common sense and logic when it comes to safety. If you need an agency to monitor your safety, your doing it wrong. Also, it is incredible to see that us old guys get it done, solo, all while being ridiculed by young bucks, but respected, regardless. Tip: I shoot my walls with a laser, mark the corners, snap a line for the sheathing. Keeps it honest. I have enjoyed this channel for years. As you were, hard working sir.
I'm 70 and I construct docks in alligator infested waters in Florida, you just keep your hammer ready in case one starts getting nosy which they will, esp the large ones. You are young with many years ahead of you, you seem to be in very good shape.
it always seems to be windy when I get the plumb bob out...
I live in lake havasu az, been framing forever. I also build tall garages by myself. We both frame identical even carry same tools in the exact same place in our bags. I also am a mag 77 and hattachi guy. The only thing I see we do different is I run my osb vertically where you run yours horizontal. I've picked up a few new tricks from you, thanks.
There’s something about watching your videos that are calming in a way I haven’t experienced on UA-cam. This is, in my opinion, some of the finest content on this platform. Your humbleness and willingness to take on new things is inspiring…
Keep up the great work ✊thank you for taking the extra effort to share your experiences.
Really good job, appreciate the info. I also work alone, and trying to figure out how to get the job done without getting hurt. Thanks for the video.
You personify the notion that with age comes wisdom. Really like your presentation style!!
Thank you for sharing your trade with us
Suggestion: 8:06 if you made the plumb-bob jig with a 2-1/4” stand off from each wall rather than 3” you could use your long level as a gauge block instead of cutting lumber. A level is lighter and guaranteed straight unlike dimensional lumber. Fabulous video series!!!
E.C., you are one heck of a guy!
So glad to see you building, love to see a one man show, I spend most of my projects as a one man show. I appreciate your resourcefulness
I loved having my scissor lift when I built my 32 x 40 x 14 detached garage. Screw ladders and scaffold.
Hmmmmm, appreciate the slight undercuts to ease installation I'd probably have made maybe the 3rd or 4th block just right to keep everything tight. That's just my way.
I like using a chop saw for blocks. You'd be amazed how fast you can cut them.
Coming from a bloke in Australia, that learnt his trade (electrical) from my dad for 15yrs, he's now retired but still sticks his head in from time to time. I just love watching your content because it comes from a time where a job worth doing is worth doing well. People don't always appreciate it these days!
Thanks for the good work mate 👍
Great video as ever Scott. One little tip that may speed things up when using a plumb bob, is to let the bob hang into a pot of water. It will still hang perfectly plumb, but will be less susceptible to the wind and minor knocks.
damn, thats a fantastic idea
Really love the insight and then the captioned math. Such an incredible channel with hugely helpful skill sharing and even just alternate thought processes are awesome to hear. Thanks for all the work you do capturing this and editing videos to take us along
You rock, thank you
Scott-Bravo!! I''m sure there are times when you feel that you could get more done if you didn't have to facetime with your camera. Just know that when you take the time to explain - even the simplest things - I know you are talking to me and thousands of other you tube viewers. Your style & practical solutions really showcse a lifetime of experience and problem solving. I also spent my youth with a beloved grandfather who was a working carpenter & farmer in Indiana. The lessons he taught me are still with me today - in my 70's. Thank you and keep up your good work.
Hi again, If I ever had to make a house frame onsite , instead of prefab ( frame made in factory/ semi'd to site), I always liked to have on hand ,the truss plan layout . It helped in working out wall stud positions that could place a stud directly under a truss ( actually 35mm; 1 1/2 "offset from a truss postion [ except girder trusses where real direct support is better], due to using a metal cyclone ' over strap ,that would sit right next to truss as opposed to not directly under truss, thus messing with nailing of truss footcut/toe to extra top plate.
I'm so graceful for fact checking, sincere presenting and ownership over beam weight mistake.
I just found you on UA-cam a couple of days ago while searching “anvil”. I went back to the beginning (6yrs ago) and watched the 1st dozen videos or so. It didn’t take me long to realize that you’re the guy who’s forgotten more than I’ll ever know 😊. Not that I’m an idiot or incapable ( my wife calls me McGyver); but you are a treasure trove of information. Thanks for sharing.
All this talk of working alone. I cant help but think about the crazy framer. I'll have to see what hes up to. I dare say he is the king of building alone.
13:52: Using a ramp to move the header into place was genius.
Talking about cutting the blocking on the exact measurement: We build houses that are pre-cut. The problem is that so often some of the blocking needs to be trimmed, because it's theoretical length doesn't add up with reality, because it assumes everything is perfect when in fact boards cup, or are otherwise not always angled exactly at 90.0 degrees from whatever it's fastened to. This confirms my belief that blocking cannot be the exact theoretical length if you have a series of them.
13:43 is EC at his finest! The little ramp to help slide the gluelam in place was so clever. Well done, as always Scott. Skill and experience equals expertise. Keep up the good work!
Mr essential craftsman I'm 63 so I spend most my time watching others build can't say I don't enjoy it my back appreciates it but I get a call every once in awhile to help family or friends that have really messed something up (underbid or just can't do it right) and I'm glad it's that way love watching your videos keep up the good work haha have a Blessed Day
The most inventive carpentry techniques come from the guys that spend thier time working alone👍Enjoyed watching the video😎Cheers
I'm a one man Concrete Contractor, and I've also been crafting and tweaking my systems and procedures for one man operation. Most people don't even believe that I do 90% of all of my work alone. Proper systems and procedures is certainly the key
watching you work is a real joy,,,,,,,i wish my back gets better so i can do some work again, i am retired and 68,,,,,,,,i really miss working,,,,,,,,i was a cabinet maker and installer and did carpentry on the side,,,,,,,,,,,i still have a habit of going to home depot at least twice a week or more.,,,,,,,,,,i have job offers but my back wont let me work a steady job,,,,,,,i need to sit down every 5 minutes but i am working to get better,,,,,,,,,,anyway watching you is soul soothing,,,thanks
On your advice I got a Mag77 about three years ago. I traded it out for the Makita 18vX2 rear handle circ saw. It’s pretty good. The mag 77 was much heavier.
My thought would be to whack some bracing onto those gable end walls before you threw that beam up. Just to give the frame some lateral stability.
Beautiful craftsmanship
Very impressive how he throws the 4x8 sheets up there an doesn't have to force it at all to butt up against the sheet next to it. Or even fighting it a little bit to make sure he is half way on nailer stud thus way next sheet has room to butt up against and have room all the way up & down the 48inch side.
Scott, you're just an inspiration to us all to keep going. Working alone is a regular habit for us old guys and counting on help not much in the way of our thinking. Age and experience determine whether or not we tackle jobs like this one. More often than not, we "Believe" we can do it. And so, we keep going. It's great to see you think your way through problems working alone. Stay Safe and keep up the good fight.
Thx👍greetings from Sweden!
Man I tell you I really appreciate finding your channel way back when. I love watching learning but mostly listening to you speak. Thanks for sharing.
I always pick up some knowledge when I watch you work. Sometimes it’s not what your saying. There will never be a substitute for experience. I’m in the middle of replacing roof trusses on my entire tri-level home by myself. I appreciate seeing you tackling a job by yourself.
Watched my dad work alone framing houses for years. Last one he did solo was 10k sq ft, 32’ cathedral ceilings. The guy he built it for told me he’d never seen anyone be able to think ahead and see the end product like my dad. If I’m lucky, I got a few of those genes. A good crane operator helped at times, but most of the work just took a little forethought. Thanks for the video. Love your content.
for me, this is your best series that has the show case of your skills/thought processes with pimples included...tanks for sharing
amazing work and a real accomplishment!!
Nothing like receiving a master’s degree in carpentry, construction techniques and old fashioned wisdom from watching these videos. All of that gives me great comfort. Looking forward to the next one.
I often want to give up when working alone. Especially after failures. You've inspired me to day setting high beams for concrete forms on an elevate steel deck. Heading back out now.
LOL,,,, It's amazing that I live in the Appalachian Mountains of N.C. And We Both use the same methods !
So hard to beat the right tools,. common sense and thinking ahead. Thanks for another great installment.
Totally enjoy watching you work ,been doing this twenty yrs now ,can't count how many times I've built houses and garages by myself over the yrs ,also agree sometimes it's just easier ,you and Larry haun are so an inspiration to me as a rough carpenter
scott you're such an inspiration. Watching you work and seeing you use the same creativity as I do working alone. I just love your channel.
8:15 Holy Smokes, you got my grandpa's eyebrows!!!
Thank you for sharing
I've installed all sorts of siding and sheathing products alone with the help of "Mr. Nailson". 😉
My dad taught me that with a pair of sawhorses and some good c-clamps, one man can build almost anything.
Have really liked your channel for several years now. I'm in Michigan- and with very little help (SIL when available) I have just gotten a 1200sqft shop watertite this past month. Many years ago I was a carpenter, desk job for 30 years and THIS video really touched my heart while watching, thank you! And keep up the good work!
Seriously thank you so much for all your videos. I’m in my 3rd year as an apprentice and your teaching is all practical and just in general helps me with my productivity thru the day. Keep up the work!
I love watching you work. I’m building my house and it’s going slowly since I do majority of the work alone so, I love watching your videos for motivation 😅
I'm jealous of the young guys starting out who have access to this great channel 😊
What a blessing. 🥰
Winter is coming on fast. Great way to end the video. Words to live by. Thank-you for such a great channel.