Is Heating a Problem?
Except during those rare cold snaps were the temperature drops into the teens, the barn isn’t difficult to keep warm and cozy. And even during the coldest days of the year, a little extra wood and electricity – like most houses – keep the barn warm.
The original remodel and conversion of the barn was done very thoughtfully. Don Frothingham, the architect, added a new layer of roof above the barn’s original roof and filled the space with thick rigid insulation. So, the house has the best of both worlds, good insulation and the original look of the barn ceiling inside.
Also, the barn gets a lot of solar gain from all sides on a sunny day. Even on the coldest days of the year, the sun will increase the temperature both upstairs and down significantly.
The large french doors leading to the deck are modern insulated glass, but some remaining single-pane, divided-light, leaded glass windows maintain the old feel of the place. In the coldest months of winter, the current owners use temporary storm windows to add a layer of insulation.
Upstairs, the main heat source is a brand new Vermont Castings Defiant wood stove. It keeps the place toasty with usually just an hour or two of fire each morning (usually about 4 to 6 pieces of wood). Add a little more wood and easily get the huge indoor space upstairs to a wonderful 70 degrees or more.
Downstairs, electric radiators add heat as needed.
