A second opinion
Today, we received a second opinion. On our renovation plans; nothing more. By chance, a friend of a friend is also an electrician, and he stopped by to see our project. Along the way, he also provided some ideas, which is actually a good thing. We can get swallowed up in the client-contractor model, and having someone else add some salt to the soup can be a good thing.
I had some vague ideas about the ways that a too small electrical panel can be adapted. Our visitor affirmed those ideas, and he also gave us some hints on how to minimize the deconstruction needed to add a bunch of outlets along the foundation wall: surface-mounted with conduit. I like that. A little “industrial” in tone, but this is for my area of the basement, so I accept the outcome.
Our lighting needs were also covered. We probably don’t need a full set of lights in a small closet, right? Also, putting in too many switches just complicates things. Follow the KISS principle. As for ventilation of the new shower area, we’ll go for a unique duct going outside (rather than trying to piggyback on the existing air exchange pipes.)
What else? Well, my choice for our heating was praised, from someone who knows the gear. We should be able to live long and warmly. In fact, our visitor hopes to do some similar things in his next home, whether here on the Island or away. As for the costs… not his concern. We will have to calculate our own budget.
