After finishing the post and beam framing of our waterfront cabin, the next major step was completing the exterior cabin framing, installing the roof trusses and completing the exterior sheathing. This marks Part 5 of our waterfront cabin build series, and it’s the stage where the cabin really started to feel like a solid, permanent structure.

Not only did these steps add a lot of strength to the building, but they were also some of the most enjoyable parts of the entire build. We used our vacation time to work on the cabin during the day and camp on the property at night, turning construction into a family adventure.

 

Exterior CABIN Framing

Once the post and beam structure was complete, we framed in the exterior walls. Because this cabin had been moved from a previous location, many of the walls were already pre-built. We simply pulled them out of the sea container and reinstalled them in place.

 

 

We did make a few changes to the original design. At the front of the cabin, we added a new window positioned perfectly to take in the waterfront view—especially from the bed. It’s one of those small changes that makes a big difference.

At the back of the cabin, we made a more significant structural change. The original cabin had a ladder instead of proper stairs. Since this build was permitted and needed to meet code, we extended the cabin by four feet to allow room for a proper staircase. This meant completely reframing the back section of the cabin, but it was well worth it.

Exterior Sheathing

Next came the exterior sheathing. We used Aspenite, which adds strength to the structure and starts the process of closing the cabin in. Installing the sheathing around the entire exterior really helped the cabin feel protected and enclosed for the first time.

 

Roof Trusses

Around the same time as the framing and sheathing, Tony installed the roof trusses. We chose simple pine trusses and insulated between them to maximize headroom in the loft.

Once the trusses were in place, we installed the strapping, which is what the tin roofing would eventually be screwed into. Seeing the roof structure go up was a big milestone—it completely changed the look and feel of the cabin.

Interior framing

The final framing stage was the interior walls. Since this is a small, open-concept cabin, there wasn’t a lot of interior framing required. Even so, this step really helped define the space and made it easier to visualize how everything would come together.            

 

Well line and backfill

Another major step during this phase was installing the well line. Tony rented a mini excavator and dug a trench from the well to the cabin to install the water lines. Once that was done, he backfilled around the foundation and pushed the dirt up against it.

 

This week also doubled as our family vacation. We parked our trailer on the lot, set up a tent, and spent a full week living on the property. Days were spent working on the cabin, and evenings were filled with swimming, fishing, and campfires.

We were hot, tired, and dirty—but we made some incredible memories together. One evening, we were treated to the most beautiful, colorful sunset I’ve ever seen, a moment that made all the hard work feel completely worth it.