Shop update

[Robert Goodale]

An update on our new shop...

The architect has at last finished and we have the complete blue prints. 
 At this point it is in the hands of the structural engineer who needs 
to detail all of the framing and load calculations.  Simultaneously a 
truss company will finish the roof engineering which is coordinated with 
the structural.  The slab and level details are finished and the 
plot/grading engineer will complete his work ASAP.

Now we need to get electrical straightened out.  In order to tie the 
shop into our home system we need to replace the existing panel which is 
currently rated at 200 amps.  A minimum of 400 amps is required.  Next a 
buried line will need to run about 200 feet to the shop where it will go 
into the shop panel.  This is the most complicated portion of the 
electrical because the power company will need to shut off the power 
from the street on a 24 hour permit while the panel is replaced.  To 
save money I will rent a trenching machine and dig the ditch for the 
conduit myself.

The electricians want a ridiculous amount of money to wire the shop so I 
will do the job myself.  In order to do this I will require an 
electrical engineer to draw out the details and calculations for 
submittal for the permit.  I lucked out on that one.  I located an 
electrical engineering student through the university who will be able 
to do the job for me.  This will save a tremendous amount of money. 
 There will be a generous helping of 115 and 230 volt outlets throughout.

Next we need a soil test.  This is where an engineer comes out and takes 
core samples to test for compacting requirements for the pad.  When this 
is done all of the above plans, engineering, and reports will be ready 
for submittal for permits.  It is mind numbing how many engineers and 
designers are required to build a piano shop!!!!!!  (Yes, this is all 
very expensive!)

There will be 10' ceilings with open trusses so it should be very roomy. 
 You could probably easily put a full sized basketball court in the 
place with room for spectators.  There will be a 12' X 9' roll up door. 
 We will want a fully insulated door since we plan on having central 
AC/Heating.  To my amazement the so called "insulated doors" are lousy. 
 They have an average R value of 9.  Instead we will buy a non insulated 
door and then install our own insulation later and cover the inside with 
masonite.  This will be significantly better.  All other walls and the 
roof will be generously stuffed with R-19 which should make it plenty 
comfy cozy year round.  The shop's nine windows will be double glazed as 
will the ten 2' x 4' skylights.  The exterior will be stucco further 
enhancing the insulation.

I have been planning this shop for nearly 15 years and it is truly 
amazing to see it actually materializing!  I will continue the updates 
as we go.

Rob Goodale, RPT
Las Vegas, NV