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Question: Dear Joe,
The Victorian Conservatory is a dream of mine. I am
about to order plans, but I was wondering if you could give me a realistic idea of what tools I would need to build the conservatory. I want to make certain it is not easier to buy
a pre-cut package. I don't have any carpentry skills. Do the plans come with a suggestion of material source?
Thanks so much for your time. Beautiful designs. Danielle
Answer: Building a
conservatory isn't too much more difficult than building a deck or a barn or a garage. For a list of materials and the complete how-to manual, see the following page: How to Build a Victorian Conservatory (an updated hard copy comes with the plans),
Some of the posts and sills are pretty heavy . . . You could hire a local carpenter or contractor to construct it for you. I had the local glass company install the glass for
me.
If you do it yourself, you'll need the following tools for framing:
- Hammer.
- Square
- Circular saw with rip fence.
- Level
-
Speed square
- Tape measure
- Snap line
- Cat's Paw crow bar.
- Flat bar
- Carpenter's Pencil
- Utility Knife
- Electric Drill with 1/2" and 3/8" ship augers (bit assortment).
- 5/8 and 3/4 ratchet wrench (low clearance) for lag screws
- Chisel(s)
-
Hand saw or Recipricating saw.
- Ladders
Although not absolutely necessary, I'd also recommend:
- 10" Table Saw
- Cordless drill, cordless saw,
etc.
- Electric reciprocating saw
- Caulk gun
- Electric miter saw
- Pneumatic Nailers (framing and finishing with air compressor)
If you do your own
foundation, brick and plumbing . . . . There are other tools (let me know if you need a list).
If you want to start with rough cut lumber, you'll need a joiner and planer.
If
you want to cut and mill your own trees, you'll need a port-a-mill and a solar wood drying kiln!
A pre-cut kit would save you some time but will
be a lot more expensive.
I don't think I'd tackle this project alone. I had a friend visit me for a week and we did the heavy stuff (main room framing). I
hired a local handyman for a few weekends to help with all the window trim (tedious!). I had friends over for the concrete pour.
I hope that helps.
Thanks for visiting and
may all your dreams come true!
Joe
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TABLE SAW
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Bosch 4000K 10" Worksite Table Saw,... A Table saw is a must. This
one has a soft start which will make the motor last a lot longer and is quieter. The extensions are great. Make sure to buy the accessories. The shop vacuum plugs into the
back.
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