I'm taking donations...

Ok people. If you are reading this blog, I know you are interested in the renovations (there's no use trying to close the page now, I know who you are). So, while you're here, you might as well pay. Yeah, yeah, you "say" you don't have pay pal... ok, maybe you don't. But there are other ways to contribute- even if it is just pennies. You can click on our google links about home renovation (quit yer complaining, you'll need to know the helpful information at some point). We get paid for each click. I don't know how... my computer networker takes care of that (as long as he doesn't scam me and stops buying things from China).

We just found out that we need a new roof. WAAH! If I sounds "whiny" its because I thought we had at least another 5-10 years with the current one. But, since we have had a few leaks (we're talking a moderately soaking shower that pours in from the attic), we have decided to re-evaluate its effectiveness. So, here we are. I would like to spend money on my bathroom (see previous post) or central air (yes, we just went through the 2nd summer w/o air conditioning in most of the livable areas of our house). But, alas, I must wait some more. And, of course, my perfectionist point of view on each project we tackle requires more money than we really want to spend. We are looking at synthetic slate. It is half the cost (or less) than real slate. But, before you get excited, it is still about $390/Square (Square= 100 S.F.). We need 24 squares. Yeah. Uh huh. And, keep in mind, that doesn't include installation or the removal of (what could be.... ASBESTOS) shingles. OR the installation of sheething, nails (they have to be stainless, so we're told), or other incidentals (I think we're funding some kid's college fund somewhere). However, asphalt shingles are not very exciting, especially after you've seen the synthetic slate (think Kia vs. Audi), and when you want to preserve the character of an old house. We have found some synthetic slate on ebay (don't know if I should be worried about purchasing something this big on ebay). It is about 1/3 the cost of the other synthetic slate. The product samples look nice, but are very pliable (I don't know if this makes it any less/more stable). The product is called NewTech synthetic slate. I would love to get someone else's opinion on this product. Please tell me if we are making a big mistake. Or give me some other valid options!