We Bring an Excavator INSIDE Our House | Building Our Home In the Mountains

We bring an Excavator INSIDE our house in order to dig through 2ft of solid rock.
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We are Heather, Bradey, Alexa and Chloe. We purchased an abandoned stone barn in the foothills of the Italian Alps and we are working together as a family to renovate and restore this old stone barn into our dream home.

[@francescathomas3502]

If that house ends up falling down around you, then the LAW and the Italian Bureaucracy can be blamed for losing a 600 year old house!! I hope to god that the house does NOT fall down.

[@kenfox22]

That wheelbarrow is a back saver. He was a skilled excavator

[@chuckbus]

That Evel Knievel dude with the excavator….amazing!

[@abigailgerlach5443]

Officials believe that actual air is necessary to dry out moisture from the ground. I have a field stone foundation and it's a royal pain in the butt. That's especially true when the ground is clay and everything shifts a lot when wet! Well, you have enough stone if you ever want to build a Roman Road or a medieval keep! Maybe just build a whole new wing to the house!!!

[@RaisingVoyagers]

Building science is ALWAYS further ahead than building code. If a crawl space is required, than it should be an enclosed/dry crawl space, not a wet one where you are just creating a place for mold to grow 🤷‍♂️

[@erikhughes7150]

Props to the guy on the jack hammer. He knows his sh!t for sure. Such a difficult job and he does it with ease.

[@user-yu7bj5gk6v]

Hi, if I remember correctly, the need for the crawl space is a requirement in Lombardia to avoid Radon poisoning, whithout it NEW buildings cannot get the "Agibility" certificate, meaning they cannot be sold. Old buildings however (built before 1934) do not require that certificate in order to be sold, which is the reason you were able to buy it in the first place. The fact that you cannot get the "Agibility" cert does not means however that you cannot live in that building, as long as you mantain or get better sanitary standards with your remedial works you should be able to get an "abitability" cert. This is the reason why it's very rare for old buildings like yours to undergo such an extreme renovation just to achive "agibility", you just don't need it usually. Hope this help

[@pj41]

Thank you for this information. Radon is not something to ignore - it has major health implications.

[@deangundry6372]

So glad to see that you have that geoporter machine now. It will help save your back. Once your back is damaged, it has lifelong consequences. I know this from personal experience. Watching you and your family's adventure reminds me of our own adventure, when we left the city and moved to another state, to a small rural town to raise our family, and took on the renovation of a 100 year old "fixer-upper". I'm now retired and physically unable to do these projects any more. But I love to see a young family like yours follow a dream. I wish you all the best.

[@DeerheartStudioArts]

You are the King of Optimism!🦌💌❤️🔨

[@lindamesa5122]

This is nuts! I've never seen a house being dug out with an escivator! None of us understand it! One thing for sure u have plenty of rock to build a castle for the girls! 😮😮😮

[@RaisingVoyagers]

Yay for more building stones 😊

[@ludovica8221]

@@RaisingVoyagers I doubt you will get building permission for a stone built play structure

[@kindlydude]

I wouldn't ask for permission if I were them. Just build it to look ancient & say it was a part of the historic property! 😊😆😇 @@ludovica8221

[@juditszabo8751]

İt is what it is, you do what you have to do. Hopefully it doesn't weaken the structure of the house. Good luck with it!🤞👍🍀

[@7995writer]

I so look forward to Sunday and a new Raising Voyagers video. Every week, I am gobsmacked anew by your dogged determination to make this vintage structure a habitable home. Kudos to you, Brady and Heather. You've got more guts than I, my friends.

[@RaisingVoyagers]

Thank you so much! 😊

[@Susan.I]

I have to wonder why Italy is taking up Granite stone to put down cement?

[@kindlydude]

Cement may last centuries ...but (most) stone will last for several millenia. @@Susan.I

[@wrenwest4887]

At the end of this you should get an award, if not from some Italian, from all us viewers astounded at your perseverance. God bless your family as well who also have that commitment - a yeoman's task.

[@bennybooboo6789]

Fantastic progress with your Italian too, great to see you putting in the effort to speak to them in their native tongue where possible.

[@KC-603]

You have such patience! I'd be so frustrated at this point!

[@joycechicoine6270]

Finally! I am so happy that you finally got an excavator inside! I was worried that your girls would be all grown up before you got the floor all excavated.

[@RaisingVoyagers]

😊 it’s been a long journey for sure!

[@cathysnyder4786]

So proud you got the motorized wheelbarrow! Your back will thank you.

[@Diwondermum]

Life is certainly interesting in Italy!! I really don’t understand their logic on the destruction of the house just so you can repair it!! And it’s even more baffling when licensed builders are saying it’s not necessary. I wonder what the theory is behind the laws. Doing a fab job. Keep cool. You are nearly there.

[@jeannerogers7085]

It's Italy - there may well be no logical reason.

[@patcampton7163]

After watching you grafting so hard heaving out rocks by hand i dont blame you for brining in the digger. Amazing project.

[@lesliecarpenter869]

Sooooo glad you could get some added help. It's all going to be alright- love and faith to you.

[@moparman1962]

Brady/RV...put full synthetic oil one weight heavier than what is called for in your motorized wheelbarrow transmission. Full synthetic oil clings to metal parts much better than regular oil, it is much more slippery and it also lasts longer than regular oil (but pretend it doesn't and change it in anything you use it in like it's regular oil). Try it, it will likely solve your transmission sticking problem.

[@JulieParisiArt]

I think it's important to realize how lucky you are in times like these. So many people would love to have your problems. It will be over before you know it.

[@portgirl7829]

Ughh!! I just heard what you said about the doorway 😬 🚪 Dude, I'm so sorry. I bet the guy felt so bad. Looking forward to seeing the aftermath in your next video! I'm a brand new Patron, and just so you know you're my only one 🤗 I'm proud of you guys! Take care 🇨🇦

[@a.l.6176]

I commend you on your good nature, patience, skills and appreciation of your kids and wife. Truly an outstanding family man!❤

[@user-ju4lg5lu8k]

I cannot help desiring so much to watch next video and get reassured that the house did not suffer too much from this violent digging out stones and foundations. The structure is solid but also very delicate. I hope everything is fine.

[@megaotstoy]

We had a couple of spades, a few digging bars, a wheel barrow, a brand new jack hammer, and a whole galaxy of multi-colored drilling machines... and also a backhoe, a pare of excavators, a dozer, and a crate of dynamite. Not that we needed all that, but once you get locked into a serious house renovation, the tendency is to push it as far as you can.

[@antoniodejesusviveiros528]

Where there is a mini excavator capable of passing through an entrance without touching it, there is no pick or manual shovel that would make a man so happy.

[@auntiecshangout6800]

WOW - you have the patience of a saint. My compassion goes out to your family and you during the struggles to remodel/rebuild a home. Hang in there - all will be well.

[@paulamiller4366]

OMG! You really got that excavator inside! I would never have thought it possible. So cool!

[@RaisingVoyagers]

It was a bit tense!!! 😬

[@TimG333]

Oh wow❗️love your location, House. So sorry you must deal with the Local government on construction!

[@user-fu2oy6dp4j]

You hired the best, professional excavator!! Blessings

[@truthwillrise3712]

As I watched I was reminded of the original builders and the immense amount of physical labour that went into the building of this historical place. The fact that the law requires you to demolish so much of it is complete and utter nonsense. It makes no sense that the structure would need to be compromised so significantly for a seemingly arbitrary depth law. Kudos to you guys for sticking it out for your beloved stone house. I can't wait to see what comes next for you and your family. P.S. so glad you'll be able to use the stone in other areas around the property.

[@sindysimms4001]

Seeing that thick mountain rock come off in those huge slabs, was cool. Hang in there. I love your mini tractor wheel barrow.

[@RaisingVoyagers]

So nice having the extra help!

[@radar2ana]

Wow! Your house is bigger than I thought… that is impressive.

[@annahall9610]

I would get the floor organised as soon as possible, hang the expense, stabilze the house, walls as soon as possible, and yes crazy regulations, hope this chapter of your build is done soon

[@fgambardella8456]

I've been a builder for over 40 years I never seen what you're doing now I think you should be able to get an engineer to to draw up different application so you don't have to destroy your walls. I think it's called SCIA request and takes into consideration historical building

[@kimberlyllamas5804]

I can only imagine how GREAT that dirt will be in your garden! 600 year old dirt! YES!

[@FernandoMiranda-ml6fu]

Good for you! Doing what you did is going to widen your girls prospective of what the world and life is, you are living a life that many of us only dare to dream ! Adorable family, love watching your show.

[@t.crovato8690]

You´re doing well with Italian language. I understand you with no problems. Keep follow the law, because they can come and see if you done the work as the law says.

[@pietroballotta3638]

It’s funny hearing the Bergamo accent of the workers 😂😂 And you speak Italian pretty well! You have also a remarkable understanding of the dialect, congratulations! They are saying that is not necessary to dig so much and to cover the stones for respecting the new thermal insulation laws ..

[@jeniferpollonais6546]

This to me is appalling. Sad so see you going through this hell just to renovate a old house, but it’s good to see that you are not losing the will to get it done. I wish you all the best with this, and looking forward to seeing the finished masterpiece. ❤

[@bettybryson9637]

Exactly! 99.99% of people would not think this is worth it. The government rules don’t support restoration, they hinder it at every point it seems!

[@kindlydude]

Yes!! How many Italians much less foreigners would have the will-power to power through and get this done to the bureaucrat's inane satisfaction? @@bettybryson9637

[@eugeniahobbs41]

As a potential U.S. expatriate with a family might I recommend taking a more humble approach to Italian Building Specifications. Unless I am incorrect you were an IT specialist and not a Professional Structural or Civil Engineer nor are you an Archeologist. These building ordinances and regulations were developed through lessons learned over many years. We have watched every episode of this journey and wish you the best. Buona Fortuna.

[@gabriellamartins3384]

THIS! I can’t believe it took me this long to find one comment that isn’t just an emotional take or over-exaggeration on this topic…

[@marlenevdpoll]

Italian engineering is legendary. The best. Overall it's worthy of respect.

[@pumpupjam9648]

Keep moving, finish your foundation! It is not just Italy with insanity, but the emtire world! Good you hired the digger machine, save your back for future projects!

[@TheLostTowerDiaries]

Wow, how ridiculous are those rules - it's insane! And now because of it, your doorway got broken - makes us so angry and sad on your behalf. But you are so dedicated and determined and one day you will have the most amazing home xx

[@jacquelinekohn2082]

This is crazy. So sorry you were forced to do this. I’m wishing you the very best outcome. 🙏❤️

[@jenniferheale2485]

We're all going to pop the champagne with you guys when this reno is complete and you can finally move in.

[@lgrillo]

I have so many thoughts. First, I was holding my breath while he was trying to get the excavator through the door. I knew it went in since you have a few frames showing it inside at the beginning of the vid, but still. Whew! Second, Every time the operator swung the claw around to dump stuff into the wagons I was like “DON’T HIT THE WALL!” I’d have been panicked the entire time. Third, this whole process is absolutely absurd. ABSURD! That floor was so solid, I cannot grasp how or why they think this is better, especially since you are now putting the rest of the building at risk. Just unbelievable.

[@RaisingVoyagers]

I definitely was panicking the entire time 😬

[@lilo97423]

I think this requirement is crazy.

[@moodster8552]

I’m going to go out on a limb here and say that any well educated and experienced Structural Engineer would say that this requirement is probably not the best idea for this particular building. If there is a seismic event large enough to cause any damage, the entire structure is likely to fail and the foundation work being performed will not make much difference.

[@cindybanks6844]

Seems to me it could make the side of the mountain unstable as well

[@RaisingVoyagers]

Yes it scares our engineer very much, but there’s no option

[@missglenellen]

Exactly what I thought, this building was earthquake proof for centuries, now it‘s becoming fragile…

[@RaisingVoyagers]

It is temporarily becoming fragile. It will be just as strong, actually stronger when we are finished.

[@marta77inf]

augury caro parli benissimo. Non capisco questa roba. It's insingne. 😢

[@chrisoakey9841]

You could make some growzers to sort dirt and stone. On your step to the next level just put a few beams attached underneath and set at an angle, as you drop the dirt and stone, the sorting will be done according to the gap sizes. I would set it with a few stages so you get dirt then gravels, then stones.

[@lena-roseorlando219]

So much work! Can’t believe you has to remove that foundation and make it lower.

[@madhatter909]

I'm so glad to see a machine being used rather than you back. They broke the doorway

[@rockmanal2098]

You now have enough extra stone, that you could build an entire squad of Rockmen! Get with it my man, we are all waiting to see one!

[@maryolmstead3183]

I'm glad you are saving your back on this part. I hope the door wasn't too badly damaged.

[@stan525]

add some plywood to the bed of your new powered wheel borrow it will last alot longer

[@judithgrote8794]

Oh my God, I was praying for these machines for you 🎉 it is so satisfying to watch the relief 😅

[@claravonessen5673]

How satisfying it's to see the "big machines" helping with the digging process. You've got this, guys! Love to see all the changes :)

[@mariecreighton5222]

Fabulous work guys amazing. Much faster be safe blessings love you guys ‼️‼️🦋💕🦋

[@debplumley9033]

I agree this crazy . Someone needs to appeal that requirement. Its strong as is. Looks like fort knox.

[@cynn3367]

I've heard you mention the requirement for certain room for crawl space. What is that about? I've lived in several houses in Italy new construction and none of them had any kind of crawl space. As far as insulation, what are they talking about? A vapor barrier? If all this devastation is to facilitate putting in water, sewer and power lines seems a simpler solution would have been go just excavate out the locations for the lines and leave the rest of the flooring alone. Will there be an inspection by someone when all this is done and before the final floor is laid?

[@nikimp3]

The drawbacks of having a Yt channel! Complimenti per il tuo italiano, capisci e riesci a farti capire bene! Don't let the situation deflate you, you're at a good stage now!

[@marthaalvarez8445]

I am amazed with the construction that you bought, every time you advance I see how the builders of your stone house are wonderful, without counting on the technology that we currently have, it is a house that has standing and in good general condition. How many decades, how many years I love it that you do not change the essence of the house?

[@lena-roseorlando219]

Lots of hard work. Glad you got the excavator to help get the job done.

[@RaisingVoyagers]

Definitely exciting to see so much progress so quickly!

[@charlietall6321]

The Morandi bridge is an example of the Italian bureaucracy's mastery of concrete construction. Hopefully, their assistance with your renovation won't result in a similar outcome.

[@terrecisco2467]

My goodness I am stunned at these requirements

[@lindabrooks8242]

As I always say, "onward and forward, through the storm". Your house will be gorgeous!❤

[@matthewwagner8989]

I am so sorry that things are so crazy…jackhammering out the solid bedrock? Prayers for you and your family on your Visas, too! I admire your patience!❤🎉😊

[@danielaferrari1380]

It's really nerve wrecking and ... such a cliffhanger !! 'Till next week. Cheers from Elba Isle. Dan.

[@missglenellen]

How stressful to watch such a beautiful old structure being interfered with substantially. Some laws are really insane. The builders of those stone walls must have turned n in their graves to sense this brutality.

[@julied840]

I see your point but I think if those builders saw the machinery to help them they would of loved it, also I think they might have loved the improvements!

[@Jeff-vt8kn]

You could make a awesome stone patio ❤❤

[@jeannerogers7085]

Yes, but this was a barn, so the builders might not be too exercised about it.

[@devdroid9606]

I don't think it's a good idea to make a modern home out of such an old building that was built to be something else. The risk of damage and cost overruns seems high. Better to build a new structure and incorporate some part of the old. Especially if you're not an experienced builder.

[@johanv4668]

welcome to bureaucracy, in this "one europe" there is a lot of things not what you expect. in other countries in europe it is way more easy, to change some thing on your house. because they say it is your house, you can do it. but i dont want to spoil this nice channel with polics that makes daily live bad for every one. i hope they get it over with, and move on to living on a nice place with a fantastic view.

[@michelleridgway7452]

I'm exhausted just watching this! We are with you guys for the long haul.

[@gittanrudvall7697]

Keep up your good work , stay strong with your fantasic wife and daughters😊😊😊

[@delisaseale5881]

So sorry you all are made to do this to the detriment of your houses historical value and stability. Almost seems as if they want you to give up🫤You all seem to be handling it with such patience & grace. I admire your tenacity, persistence, hard work and attitude. God bless🕊️

[@paulinelogan1400]

Thank goodness Brady you have a machine there to do this ridiculous project sometimes laws are over the top never the less you are moving forward slowly but surely can't wait until next week to see if you can finish it xxx

[@alemassa6632]

Bravo, il tuo italiano non è così male. The 'Vespaio' it's good for humidity, it's not just by law. Good job guys, keep it up.

[@RaisingVoyagers]

Grazie

[@MsSparkless1]

Makes me frustrated and I’m not even there! Almost makes me wonder if it would have been easier to build a stone house from the ground up. Instead of dealing with all these nonsense “codes”. However, I do understand they want to keep the stone house. Sending good vibes your way!!

[@dianadealencar260]

I see many different comments about what to do and not about the excavation. I have no understanding of engineering so I really pray that you guys are doing what is really correct and best for you and your family safety and for this incredible beautiful ancient house and place! Truly wishing you safety and blessing from JESUS CHRIST!🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼✝️♥️

[@kresimirbazijanec3730]

Hey Gang, being a retired Architectural Engineer, the Italian building department are "STUPIDO" the building stood there for 600 years, REALLY, need a new foundation BS, God's Good Blessings to you and your beautiful family keep up the great work love U guys XOXOXO stay safe and healthy 👋🇨🇦❤🍷

[@lindamorgan2023]

Oh No- may the Lord protect your house and you and the workers.

[@elizabethbrown7026]

Yaaaayyyyyy 🎉🎉🎉🎉 an excavator. I have watched you tirelessly remove stone after stone. Delightful video.

[@debrajosephs]

omg, it barely makes it in. This equipment is so great. Watching you do it by hand was making me tired. Seriously, what a great build they did 600 years ago.

[@zelib3214]

Im so impressed on how much of a strong will and perseverance you all have. You have a strong family unit! I thought i was a strong will person until i watch your video's. Its gonna be all worth it! Your home will be so beautiful! Dont ever give up!

[@barbaraweiss3119]

Loved this video! So glad you have your new machine to make the job easier on your back & also the excavators to dig so deep!

[@bettybryson9637]

Hopefully, the stones will also make a large beautiful flagstone patio floor all across the front of your house! Outdoor living space!

[@kindlydude]

I think they have stone right in front ...but in one vlog they explained how they wanted an outdoor patio with a view of the mountains on one side of the house.

[@LR-uk4dh]

You guys are such great communicators. You process your thoughts well. You don’t stammer. You are clear and articulate. On top of all that, you are starting to get a grasp of Italian, it seems.

[@JacquelineHudson-xh6do]

Praying for simplicity and stability your way....

[@lauradavies5346]

They are both excellent parents. And there children are beautiful ❤️

[@janhodgson1740]

Wow what a waste of a solid foundation… unfortunately you have to comply … it’s madness .. you are a man with immense patience .. so in awe of what you are doing .. amazing ❤

[@krisgalusha9820]

Sometimes laws are made for special interests groups and the lobbyists. In this case I would point my finger in the direction of the concrete companies with their mafia connections.

[@kindlydude]

[@lisametheny2243]

I am so happy to see you have help!

[@Ex-patKiwi]

As I’m watching this episode your comment of jealousy for the equipment was running through my mind just seconds beforehand, had to giggle when you voiced it. Is hiring an option for you? I’m so in awe of your tenacity and determination. To quote John and Tara, “Be brave,,,,”. You’ve got this.❤

[@reneedover1863]

Looking good, your next immigration appointment, advise dress up as they think of how you dress as respect. Love your family, God bless ❤️ 🙏

[@joannetutor4051]

bureaucrats! Don you just love them?! Stay positive. I’m glad your back is getting a respite.

[@valeriefrench9405]

Some family members of ours just bought a 600 yr old home in southern Italy. Culabria

[@richardmarino5658]

I agree with all the other comments. This is solid bedrock. Inspections should be done as the job progresses to determine the thickness of the bedrock and its condition. Then a realistic depth for humidity in the ground can be determined. Best of luck from Rich in NJ / USA

[@lolitapop38]

I really want to know what happened to the doorway. 😢. I can't wait till next week. 😢. I wish you guys the best with the digging process. 🙏

[@loisshelton5182]

So glad you got some mechanical help with digging and moving stone.

[@sovereigns1grace]

MAYBE ... whoever made this law figures that if the house withstands this abuse, it's suitable to live in. That's crazy.

[@goinggoinggone17]

So happy your getting to let your back have a break but so sorry about the damage to the door. I like many others have thought it ridiculous to have to dig out the floors so deep and chance of damaging the whole structure, but it's like in US rules have to be followed even though they do seem destructive. Praying the doorway can be repaired without changing it a lot, but I know it was very important not to damage it. The home is going to be so beautiful and have an amazing view. You and your family have worked so hard to do this, I admire you all so much. You have the kindest, calmest nature. Wishing and praying for everything to get done safely and without injuries to anyone. God bless your family.

[@adriannacabrera9013]

Aww thank you so much for sharing this with us

[@kinbailey310]

omg I would be totally freaked out about those beautiful walls falling down. My nerves would be just frazzled lol.

[@nancyhjort5348]

Give a common person absolute authority and you will have absolute law. They can keep their job. Yeah, follow the science! 600 years of sustainability and integrity of the building is irrelevant? You guys are fantastic!

[@markthompson180]

It's amazing to see that huge piece of excavating equipment working in such a small space. Good job! Glad you aren't ruining your back trying to take that stone out manually.

[@balletworkout1]

Wow! This seems ludicrous! But I wish you the best! Who comes out to inspect to see that it has been dug deeply enough?