After one winter with the building open to the elements, we decided that getting the place waterproof had to be the priority of 2005. I had never built a roof before, so it was off to the book shop to find out how. The architect had drawing plans, and the engineer had specified all the wood sizes.

We wanted an exposed rafter ceiling, and I wanted it to be made from local wood. I did not want wood from a rainforest, but I wanted to be able to actually go and visit the managed woodland where the wood came from. This created an issue, in that the BCO wants to see all the TRADA stamps on the wood to show its been inspected to C16/C24. Also all timbers under 3 inches have to be kiln dried to get a stamp. I had neither a kiln nor a stamp. I did find that one of my neighbours had a portable log saw. He collects fallen tress, and cuts them into timber for sale. He also buys in Silka Spruce & Douglas Fir from the local managed forest to cut down to size - This suited me fine, I would simply buy all wood 50% thicker than specified. I found a local guy with a TRADA stamp, to come and inspect my wood.