The bachelor pad needs a new septic system. I previously mentioned this because it was the thing that caused the purchase to be so complicated.
There are several problems with it but one is the fact that two cottonwood trees have been allowed to grow right in the middle of the evaporation field.
Cottonwood Trees are ornery creatures.
They have a root system that can be quite a problem for most everything a human would associate with a dwelling – foundations, fences, plumbing, and…. yes… even septic systems.
If you followed my activity building an airstrip this past summer and now this, one might think that I don’t get along well with tree’s.
That may be true given my recent history with them but I really do love them!!
Regardless, those two Cottonwood trees had to come out before the septic system replacement work could begin.
It seems that I never took a good photo of the backyard before this effort began.
This photo is of the backyard with an old play set that has since went away. The important part of the photo is the two trees in the background – those were the ones that had to go.
So, two friends and I went on the offensive.
In fairly short order those trees were down and pulled out of the way. Not to say it wasn’t some work!!
Yep… that’s the corner of the exposed septic tank that is also going away.
Eventually, I’ll get that wood cut up for use in a fireplace but for now, they are out of the way of the septic system.
In case you were wondering where Missy is – there she is!! Sitting in my backyard.
Those two other large trees will also be coming down before the end of the year. They too are Cottonwoods and, as I mentioned, they are very problematic.
Yes, it is a bit sad as they are quite pretty – especially when they have leaves. The good news is that they are north of my house so are not providing any shade.
You mentioned using the trees for firewood… from your house photos I don’t recall seeing a fireplace or wood-burner… are you planning on either? What’s the latest on the weight-bearing wall? Have you removed the old carpet from the house? I understand there’s a lot to do… just curious.
There sure is!!! The House Deconstruction is the latest post on the topic but that was a week or two ago so even more deconstruction is accomplished now.
The flooring is up nearly everywhere (except carpet in two bedrooms). The floor tile has been a project and a half but it is mostly up. The concrete slab is not smooth/level so I’ve had a guy in to take a look and give me a bid on fixing it. Don’t have that back yet but I expect it won’t be cheap.
A structural engineer agreed to come out and give his opinion (for $500) on the weight-bearing wall. I’ve waited nearly two weeks and am tired of waiting. So, will assume that it is weight bearing and plan to turn it into two columns and a header. That won’t be quite as open as I was hoping for but will be acceptable. That also eliminates the challenge of creating an invisible transition in the ceiling sheetrock.
Hi Jon,
You may want to see if you can buy some Tordon RTU (ready to use) to put around the outside edge of each stump. The product is absorbed into the root system from the cambium layer so the trees don’t sprout back. I am not sure about cottonwoods but other poplar trees like aspen have a weird root system that is like an underground network and cutting the trees may cause others to sprout all over the place.
Super Pete – thanks!! I’ll do it.
I am tired just reading this…wish I had half the drive and energy you do. Love ya, Brother!!!!
Years ago I was told that you either get old or fat if you don’t stay busy. WHY HAVE I GOTTEN BOTH OLD AND FAT!?!?!?!?!? 🙂