Progress

Yesterday we did of Mexican two-step, (why Mexican??). Two steps forward and one step backwards! Regis checked out the plumbing problems with inimitable calmness. Bobby stepped-out the kitchen in detail and I arranged for our appliances to be sent to his workshop. Steve researched the workings of ethanol heaters and, most importantly, organised the parking for the workmen with Council. A "Construction Zone" has been set up out the front. I spent a little time chatting to the neighbours, (Bali Corner and the Surf Shop) giving them a "heads-up" about the possibility of noise and mess in the future. Encouragingly, the woman in Bali Corner was more concerned that we should be putting a Bali-style garden on the roof, with water features and a buddha.

Now for the backsteps: The engineer has decided that we need three beams upstairs because the structure will need more bracing. Looks like we will have to crane them up, along with the machinery needed to lift them into place. There is also a bow in one of the beams which will need fixing. The top floor was not a part of the original structure and, of course,  not designed to hold the weight of solar panels and hot water tank!

David went upstairs to do some measuring for the garden design and discovered that the waterproofing skin on the deck, is, in fact, leaking. We had hoped that it was sound and would not need replacing. However, the reverse is the case.
I wonder if it isn't actually, two steps backwards and one step forward?

Too late now...