New sugar House build

[johnallin]

You've probably already done it but, make sure the cavities on the cinder blocks are closed off at the top- one looks open in first group of pictures.

If not, you risk having them fill with water and freeze.... in which case they'll most certainly crack and/or blow apart....

Doesn't need to fancy, just keep the water out. Looks like it's going to be a really nice sugar house when you're finished, congrats.

[raptorfan85]

I honestly never would have thought of that. Makes perfect sense though. Good spot.

[johnallin]

I honestly never would have thought of that. Makes perfect sense though. Good spot.

You’re very welcome.

My first “arch” was made up of cinder blocks. Ran across it in the woods a few years later, the blocks had almost disintegrated!

[BigJon]

If you don't use a sheet goods or a 1x solid cover deck with a good water proof membrane under the steel roofing it will rain inside as the steam that hits the cold under side of the roofing condenses. Trust me, every drip finds the back of your neck. Either that or use a hood over the pans.

Maple flats, what are you using as a barrier under the metal? Just 1” thick pine sheathing with nothing between that and the metal, or using bituthane underlayment? Or is there another alternative? Putting my roof on next week and only want to do it once

[n8hutch]

I used the Grace Tri Flex synthetic roofing underlayment on mine. Works great and you get pretty good traction on it walking around on the roof. Think I paid about 100 dollars for a big roll of it at HD

[maple flats]

Unfortunately I was a total greenhorn when I built my sugarhouse, I just put up 1x8 purlins, spaced 6" apart, and attached the steel directly on the purlins. Before I added a hood the first year it rained inside, after that first season the "rain" because I added a hood. Been using a hood ever since on both pans, one sitting on the flue pan and one suspended about 14-16" above the syrup pan.