There are so many things to do on this property, for sure there is no shortage of projects.
We decided to start working on the small cabin again and try to get it ready for winter trips up, but before we could fully focus on that, there were still a few things at the main cabin that badly needed attention.
The Corner Post
One of the first problems we had to deal with was the corner of the entryway.
This concrete post was what had been holding up the corner of the entrance for who knows how many years, and it was definitely failing.
Since we would be constantly going in and out during the winter, there was no way we could leave it like that.
Once Scott jacked up the corner and started levelling things out, that old piece of concrete literally disintegrated as soon as the weight came off of it. I honestly don’t think it would have lasted much longer.
Looking at it after it broke apart, it almost looked like whoever made the concrete used rock that was way oversized. Some of it looked more like chunks of boulder than normal gravel. Typically when making concrete you would use much smaller gravel aggregate so everything binds together properly.
It’s amazing some of these old repairs lasted as long as they did.
Recycling Whatever We Can
Because we try to recycle and reuse whatever we can around the property, finding exactly what you need can sometimes turn into a bit of a scavenger hunt.
After wandering around the property for awhile, we found a few old concrete blocks that had once supported a large propane tank years ago.
Those blocks ended up being perfect for supporting the corner of the entrance while we repaired everything. It’s funny how often old forgotten materials end up becoming useful again out here.
The blocks came in really handy for blocking up the corner of the entryway and helping fix the porch and stairs.
Levelling things up
I think this part was what drove Scott the craziest because absolutely nothing seems to be level in the old place anymore.
The entrance was leaning badly, the porch had sagged over time, and even the stairs were uneven. Once one thing was lifted up, it became obvious that several other things had shifted too.
So things got tweaked, jacked up, shimmed, adjusted, and levelled as best as we possibly could.
Little by little the corner started coming back into place and a new post was installed to properly support the entrance.
Trying to level an old cabin is definitely not a quick job. Every time one section gets fixed, you notice something else that’s crooked. But slowly it started looking much better and, more importantly, felt solid again.
Building a new porch
Because the old porch and doghouse had to come off while we repaired and levelled the entrance, we decided it was the perfect time to rebuild the porch completely.
Instead of making another large porch, we decided to build a smaller one using as much of the existing lumber as possible.
Anything else we needed came from old lumber we had come across stacked out back. Around here we try very hard to use whatever materials we already have before buying new supplies.
Some of the lumber may not look perfect, but a lot of it is still incredibly solid old wood.
Slowly the new porch started coming together.
It’s always satisfying seeing something old and sagging finally start looking straight and solid again.
The window
Then came the window project.
Well… I had never put a window in before, but Scott had sprained his ankle and someone had to do it.
So here we go.
I’m usually the one taking most of the pictures, so unfortunately I don’t have many actual photos showing the full process of replacing the window.
Meanwhile Scott sat outside in a chair with ice on his foot giving me instructions on what to do step-by-step while I worked.
Honestly, it went much better than I thought it would.
The window went in properly, everything lined up fairly well, and in the end it actually looked pretty good.
I was pretty happy with myself after finishing it.
And then came the door…
Hanging the Front Door
At that point there was no turning back.
Once the window was in and the porch was rebuilt, the front entrance was finally starting to come together properly again. The old cabin was slowly becoming usable and comfortable once more.
Projects like this always seem to take longer than expected, especially when working with old buildings where nothing is level, square, or simple anymore.
But honestly, that’s part of cabin life too.
Little by little things get repaired, rebuilt, and brought back to life again.
updated May 2026
© 2016 – 2026, Teresa. All rights reserved.
You’re brave to take on such a big project, but will be lovely when done! I grew up with a dad who built a house by himself when we were kids. Needless to say, we were the labor. I guess in hindsight it was a blessing as I can tinker around the house and not be afraid.
You putting in the window is fantastic! That’s no easy feat. But, the commentary on the door going in could be interesting! I have heard it’s not always so grand to replace a door.
Thanks Kerri, I don’t think I would be doing this if we had not already built our own home. I learned so much from that. It’s going to be worth it all in the end.
Surprisingly the door went in fine. Surprised me for sure lol
I love the cabin! That’s the place I could live in, to get away from neighborhoods. Just like with any home, the fixing up never stops! It must have been daunting putting a window in when you have never put one in before. I certainly wouldn’t know how to do it! From what I read, you put the window in successfully.
Thanks Karin, yes it is a labour of love. There is lots more to do and learn so keep posted. thanks for visiting my site. It’s always great to hear from people. Have a great day!