project. My initial layout did not consider the location of the wall switch, although the options may have been limited for dealing with it. For instance, the top of chairrail was bounded by the medicine cabinet and vanity light. However, I could have explored changing the width of rails/stiles if the switchplate issue were noticed during the layout process. Folks should also remember that beadboard installs may require bigger casings and bringing out switches and outlets.

carpentering...). They make quick work of rough planing. I was looking at a No. 8 Stanley Sweetheart at a tool sale and this old timer tells me, "you'll only use that thing once." I figure that if I'm ever going to need to smooth out large slabs like that you really need the larger reference face.

bundle up and throw on a few space heaters to get anything done down there. Colorado's getting a rare arctic blast it seems.

built a 3x9 rectangle as a base out of pt 2x4 (with one joist running the long way in the middle. I affixed 2x4 posts to the outside of the base using screws. Then I laid composite decking, which overhangs the base 1.5" and extends to the outside edge of all posts. I added steel connectors to give the posts a better tie to the base on top of the decking. The posts are tied together with 2x4 stock laid on top. One of my earlier comments contains some additional measurement info, but unfortunately I don't have any written plans -- kinda built it as I went.