A Tale of 'Bad Bones’

Often, we find ourselves discussing the concept of 'good bones' when it comes to evaluating a house or talking about the quality in which a new home is built. It's a term that encapsulates the fundamental structural integrity of a home, which is paramount for its longevity and overall condition. During a recent project where we undertook a complete gutting of a house in the Manito Park area. We encountered significant structural challenges that underscore the importance of a well-built foundation.

Among the issues we confronted was the alarming sight of the entire house sagging inward by several inches, a deformation so pronounced that it was evident to anyone looking at the structure (see second photo below). These problems were a direct result of the original builder's work back in the 1930s, who unfortunately did not adhere to the standards of craftsmanship we expect today.

Just like in the present day, the 1900s had their share of both skilled and unskilled builders. You might often hear people nostalgically remark, "They just don't build them like they used to." However, in this instance, we are grateful that times have changed, and our standards for construction have evolved. The lessons learned from encountering these 'bad bones' serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of quality craftsmanship in ensuring a home's durability and overall well-being.