The ceiling work actually went pretty well today. The planks on the curves at the front went in a lot better than yesterday. When the first one slid right in we looked at each other in amazement. I don’t know if we got better or if the curve lessened, but I don’t care, it was much less frustrating. Most importantly, we are almost done! The back 38″ IS done! The middle needs another plank, and the front needs two or three planks to the edge. The edge will be covered by cabinets and/or trim pieces so we only have to get close. It really looks fantastic and although there are some places we will always look at be reminded of the mistakes we made, I’m sure we will be happy with how it turns out.
We did get somewhat sidetracked today by preparing and installing the lights. We are using eight LED lights recessed in the ceiling. The lights are super low profile and snap nicely into holes in the 1/4″ cedar. I was a little worried about how the 2 3/8″ hole saw would cut the planks, but it cut very clean.
The front four lights in the galley will be on one 12V LED dimmer switch and the back four over the bed will be on a second dimmer switch. We used regular butt-connectors to attach the LED wires to red/yellow 18ga automotive wire on one light and then ran it over to the light next to it. There we used splice connectors to add in the second light. The wire between the two is wrapped in fabric friction tape. After the splice the wire connects to Ancor 18ga SO cord, which acts as a conduit through the wall to the switch (or where the switch will be some day).
Sara learning to crimp butt connectors. Let’s just say we went through quite a few and not all of the mistakes were Sara’s!
Wrapping the crossover wire in friction tape.
Installing the lights.
Connecting the SO cord.
Looking at the back with wall-to-wall ceiling!
Of course, there are still some braces making sure it is tight as the adhesive sets.
Looking at the front. Still a little work to do, but we are so close!
Fingers crossed we will have a finished ceiling tomorrow!