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Chicago Coach House > Episode 4: Ceiling and Stairs

Building Winding Stairs

Project: Chicago Coach House, Episode 4, Part 3

General contractor Ron Gan explains how a ledger board is attached to the masonry wall to support ceiling joists. Plus, Ron and carpenter John Pringle demonstrate a simple way to build a set of winding stairs. Bob visits Dave Parker in Vancouver, BC to see how Parallam beams are manufactured.

Part 1: Garage Construction
Part 2: Touring the Parallam Beam Factory
Part 3: Building Winding Stairs: Carpenter John Pringle demonstrates a simple way to build a set of winding stairs.

A coach house in Chicago is reborn! This project includes gutting and rebuilding the interior structure, finishing the basement, and adding a roof dormer. Local artists even show Bob how to give the newly renovated home some panache with a creative, Chicago-style decorating approach and faux-finish painting techniques.

Also from Chicago Coach House

Episode 1 - Coach House Tour
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Description:
Bob and general contractor Ron Gan assess the next project: a deserted old coach house. They discover several clues as to how the renovation should be done, and Bob pokes around in the attic for treasures. Plus, architectural historian Susan Benjamin takes Bob on a tour of some of downtown Chicago's 19th-century landmark buildings.
Episode 2 - Plans Discussed and Demolition Begins
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Description:
Bob discusses plans for the coach house with architect Mike Morgan and general contractor Ron Gan. Brick worker Dan Webb explains how the brick facade is power-washed to remove several layers of ugly paint.
Episode 3 - Excavation Begins
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Description:
Bob tours Frank Lloyd Wright's studio with director Gloria Garfolo and visits some of the houses Wright designed in the Oak Park neighborhood of Chicago. Back at the coach house, the basement is excavated and steel beams are put into the back wall to make room for a garage door.
Episode 5 - Roof Demolition
Episode 6 - Windows Installed
Episode 7 - Fireplace and Staircase
Episode 11 - Cabinets and Whirlpool Tub Installed
Episode 12 - Finishing Touches and Landscaping
Episode 13 - House Tour

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