Hmm, you’d probably need to get some free estimates from roof guys (or contractors) just to see how your particular house can be altered. Perhaps they can just redo the roof in certain areas to keep costs down. Good luck!

xo,
s

Thanks for stopping in with that extra info Krystol!

xo,
s

Hey Krystol,

Thanks so much for stopping by with all that info! And thanks again for sending such an inspirational makeover our way!

xo,
s

I agree that changing the door was one of our best decisions. It really opened up the house inside and out. The best part was that it was reused and only cost about $30.
As for safety, it does have the safety glass, which is nearly impossible to smash. In addition, seeing 2 big dogs greeting you at the front door is somewhat of a deterrant. We are on a non busy street, and have a deep lot so having the windows and doors open is not a big deal.
We thought about putting up a shade, but decided th dogs would probably just destroy it.
The lime was super easy. We bought 50 lb bags from an agricultural store, mix with water to the consistancy of thick cream and slather onto the brick, working it in with the brush. Some recipes suggested adding various bonding agents to make it last longer, but I wanted it to wear off, so didn’t add anything.
I have found that horizontal surfaces wear pretty fast. If there is a worn spot, or dirts splashes up it is super easy to just touch up. Our house hase been painted for about 1 yr and nothing has really worn off except a little on the chimney. I’m actually sort of bummed about this because I wanted it to wear through and look “old”.
As far as mold, I haven’t seen anything so far and it has been done for over a year. I think because the lime allows the brick to breathe, it is less likely than with paint. I suppose you could just scrub it off and re lime if needed. I live in NC, so we’re pretty hot and humid too. It has been used extensively in the UK which is pretty wet.
We did quite of bit of work on the inside too. Of course the whole process is continuous when you have an obsession such as mine. I’ve been thinking about starting a blog, but haven’t yet…

thanks again for all of the kudos!

On another note, I saw the Do It Yourself magazine in the checkout at the grocery store the other day. As soon as I grabbed it I told my husband, “I know some people who have a column in here,” and then immediately realized that I don’t actually know you! But still, it’s cool that I actually know of you in a capacity beyond (interesting) magazine articles.