At Harmon Builders, every home we create is a reflection of our family’s passion for craftsmanship. Behind the Build is a series of blog posts written by Emerson Harmon, a high school senior, who will bring you a closer look at the Harmon Builders process and share what he learns along the way.
Harmon Builders continues to make steady progress on our Workshop & Art Gallery Project in Sharpsburg, Maryland.
A Busy Start to the New Year at Harmon Builders
Emerson here! The last few weeks since the holidays at Harmon Builders have been busy, and the workshop is really taking shape. I’m still pretty new as a carpenter’s apprentice, but every day I’m getting more comfortable in my role—especially getting to work side-by-side with my dad (Paul) on the workshop project.
Exterior Framing Complete and Under Roof
The first big milestone is behind us: the exterior framing is finished, and the building is officially under roof with new shingles. Getting the structure protected from the elements was a big step, especially with the snow and wind we’ve already seen this winter.
Once we were under roof, the work shifted to things that don’t always look dramatic from the outside—but matter a lot for the long-term integrity of the building.
The Behind-the-Scenes Work That Makes a Difference
Before windows go in and rough-ins begin, we walk through the framed structure to make sure everything is plumb, square, and ready for the next phases. These checks are critical if you want a building that’s solid, safe, and able to handle winter weather.
One day was dedicated to squaring up window and door rough openings. We measured diagonally to confirm everything was true so installations will go smoothly later.
Protecting Details Like Skylights and Openings
In the future gallery area—where the owners will display photography—we took extra care to protect the four skylights. We covered them with cardboard to keep the internal blinds safe from weather and debris while construction continues.
It’s a small step, but protecting finished components early prevents costly issues later.
Anchoring the Building to the Foundation
Another major task was anchoring the sill plates to the foundation wall. It sounds simple, but it took hours of adding washers and tightening everything down with an impact driver to make sure the structure is locked in tight.
There was also the day I hung temporary lights throughout the space. Between climbing ladders over and over, it turned into a full workout—but good lighting makes everything else safer and more efficient.
Coordination with Other Trades on Site
While we’ve been handling framing and prep work, other trades have been moving things forward as well. The plumber has been setting underground pipes on stone, making sure there’s enough fall for proper drainage to the septic system, and roughing in water lines to the new well.
Excavation has continued too, with trenching for PVC conduit that will carry electrical, coax, water, and waste lines throughout the site.
Planning for Radiant Floor Heat and Concrete Work
Right now, we’re planning the radiant floor heat wiring that will run in the subfloor before the concrete is poured. The slab will be poured in thirds, with structural concrete beams at the base.
Once completed, this concrete slab becomes the main ground floor for the workshop and finish rooms. The in-floor heat will supplement the building’s primary heating system and make the space more comfortable year-round.
Interior Work Coming Next
After the floor is poured, the focus will shift inside. That includes running electrical, installing outlets, and setting insulation in the walls, ceiling, and attic trusses. This is where the building really starts to feel like a finished space.
Why a Clean, Safe Jobsite Matters
One thing my dad and I talk about constantly is keeping a clean and safe jobsite. It’s not optional—it’s part of doing the job right.
We regularly remove debris, clear sharp scrap, and bring in stone to keep mud and rainwater under control. It keeps everyone safer on site and makes it easier for homeowners to walk through without risk.
Learning the Trade Beyond the Tools
Being an apprentice has taught me how important it is to think ahead. I’m also seeing how much work happens beyond the physical building—like coordinating trades, vendors, and homeowners to keep each phase moving smoothly.
Watching my dad and my mom (Melani) manage all of that has given me a new appreciation for the planning and teamwork it takes to run a project like this. I’m excited to keep learning as we move into the next steps.
Stay tuned,
Emerson Harmon
January 25, 2026
Watch the process of another of our builds – an Industrial Cabin in the Mountains See the property on Airbnb
About Emerson’s Journal
A behind-the-scenes look at Harmon Builders projects through the next generation’s eyes. Emerson Harmon documents the craftsmanship, process, and creativity that go into every custom build.
