The Famous Dowels

Our Florida engineers decided we MUST have one inch diameter carriage bolts instead of the standard First Day half-inch diameters. These custom bolts were going to run 10 bucks EACH (we have over 150 in the house).


However, they did mention that one inch wooden doweling would be an acceptable substitute (as long as we pegged them). Lets see $1500 versus $70.






Actually, a lesson to be learned: set-backs often create new opportunities. We installed the wooden dowels and they look totally spectacular! It is the second thing people mention after they get over all the WOOD. Ironically, people now think we are some type of insane, artisan/old school-type builders.