To the Window, To the Wall Pt. 1, Day 10

December 11, 2020

LOOK WHAT CAME IN TODAY!

Cabin Windows

These were the missing pieces that we have been waiting on in order to start work on the walls. Now that we have these in our possession, we have a better idea of how to build out the rear portion of the cabin. First, we tackled the problem of how to put up studs that our wall will be fastened onto. Both the driver’s and passenger side rear cabins have large “pockets” in the frame that make putting up walls challenging. We figured we could bridge the gaps of these pockets with perfectly sized 2"x3" wood studs. This would provide a flat grid that we can install our wall material upon.

Bridging the gap

Once cut to size, the studs were screwed into the frame via 2" stainless steel sheet metal screws. They were secured so well that grabbing onto them and trying to rip them off resulted in the whole van rocking back and forth.

Driver’s side wall studs

Passenger side wall studs

We refrained from putting up the third wall stud on each side as we have to wait until we install the windows. These will be placed in the portion where we have not installed insulation. We are hoping that we can tackle that task this weekend so that the can move forward with putting walls up throughout the whole cabin.

While waiting for the windows to arrive, I had not been sitting idle. I took a few hours out of my day to complete the rear paneling of the benches-bed that face the rear.

Rear bench-bed paneling

Here’s a little update to the front of the benches-bed project:

Woodworking completion of paneling that was done a few days ago

The plan is to cut a removable wood insert that will bridge the gap between the benches — this will serve as a dining table as well. Once the frame, paneling, and lids are painted, this portion of the project will almost be complete! Currently, Ma is working on the last ingredient — covers for a queen size bed topper that will live on top of the structure we built. The bench ends will be left unfinished as they will be covered by countertop ends.

Working on projects from the rear to the front of the van is pretty satisfying. Perhaps by this time next week, the sleeping/lounging/dining portion of our van conversion will be fully built out.

Here’s a little bonus — something I learned recently:

Sawdust is an organic fertilizer and can be disposed of in the garden

DAY 10: Wall materials, cost, and install hours:

• (3) 2"x3"x8' Multi-purpose stud: $3.33/ea., Home Depot
• (2) Pan head #10 sheet metal screws package: $5.25/ea., Home Depot
• 3 hours of work

Day 10: Benches-Bed materials, cost, and install hours:

• (2) 1"x3"-6ft. Pine board: $7.10/ea., Home Depot
• Remainder of 3/16" 4'x8' Plywood from other paneling (no added cost)
• 2 hours of work