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jpneal
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# Posted: 29 Dec 2011 16:49
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Hello all. I've been looking on the forum for just a little while. I know I'll learn plenty here. I have a question but not sure where to put it so if this is the wrong sub forum then please let me know.
I've doing a lot of research into the best building method for my cabin. I hope to do most of the work myself but can't decide how to go as far as methods. Could someone point me to another thread, good book, or maybe video that would cover all the +'s and -'s of each method? I'm looking to build something in the 600-1000 sf range and well insulated. I have basic skills and am willing to do the "workshop" thing when the time comes.
Thanks for any help you could give me.
James
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AYP1909
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# Posted: 29 Dec 2011 18:03
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Welcome, James. Here is a link to some basic home construction methods:
http://www.basiccarpentrytechniques.com/
This does not address alternative methods such as timber frame, log, cord wood, straw bales...
A lot may also depend on what you can afford, the availability of materials, and what you would feel comfortable living in.
Good luck and enjoy the journey.
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jpneal
Member
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# Posted: 29 Dec 2011 18:21
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Hi and thanks for the welcome AYP1909. I was thinking about the so called alternative methods - log, post&beam, straw bale, SIPs panels, pole.... But if stick built is my best fit then I'll consider that. I want it to be simple and DIY friendly. I'll check out the link. Thanks
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MtnDon
Member
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# Posted: 29 Dec 2011 19:04
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A big advantage to stick building is that it is quicker than every other thing I can think of. Tto do a proper job with timber frame or logs you should likely take a course, not just read a book or a website. Straw bale, pumicecrete, earthships, underground, cob, cord wall all work but all require a lot more labor. How important is the time to get the basic structure built and dried in?
Whether or not you will have to obtain building permits could be another deciding factor. Sometimes it's not too big a deal to get a permit for a straw bale or cord wall structure. Others it may be difficult to impossible.
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adakseabee
Member
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# Posted: 29 Dec 2011 21:49
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I tell you what, JP, but Stoney (a member on this forum) has quite the idea on building cabin walls using dimensional lumber that in many respects appear to be as strong or stonger than logs and can eliminate the need to insulate them or cover either the outside or inside surfaces with anything but a preservative. I did a cost analysis of a nominal 8' x 12' wall with no windows or doors using conventional stick built 2x4s @ 16" o.c. covered with T-1-11 siding on the outside with batt insulation and gypsum wallboard on the inside compared to the method Stoney used on his garage. Not factoring in the cost of fasteners or preservative treatments in either case, the stick built using 2x4s is about half the cost of Stoney's method. Of course, using a more expensive exterior and/or interior wall system will lessen its advantage over Stoney's. Still, I like his method as it can simulate the look of logs and can be accomplished by a good DIYer and results in an ultra strong wall. I will probably use it on my next build. Go to this thread to check out his method: http://www.small-cabin.com/forum/2_599_0.html.
There is a lot of good discussion in that thread that will help you. However, stick built is probably the easiest method for a handy DIYer to achieve. Each method has its pros and cons and your decision will have to factor your location (environmental factors and the local building codes and bureaucracy), ease of obtaining the materials needed for construction and getting them to the site, ability to master the techniques needed for a successful build, time available to accomplish the build, availablity of getting help on site (if needed), the complexity of the build, and of course the cost. Pay particular attention to your foundation; ensure that it is appropriate for your site. Let us know what you decide to do.
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fthurber
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# Posted: 29 Dec 2011 22:05
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I have always used the Stiles books starting with his classic shed book. He uses older traditional (and sometimes quirky) construction techniques using a lot of natural material (i.e. real wood instead of OSB).
http://tinyhouseblog.com/small-house-book/
As far as the cost of a Stoney cabin...I suspect that it would be a lot less if you get the lumber at you local sawmill...especially if you supply the logs to the mill.
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Borrego
Member
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# Posted: 29 Dec 2011 22:14
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And don't forget pole houses...see how great this forum is????
http://www.easybuildings.com/
http://books.google.com/books/about/Low_cost_pole_building_construction.html?id=MIlRQ HvjQzoC
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jpneal
Member
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# Posted: 30 Dec 2011 10:43
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A few more details about my plans. I'll be (hopefully) retiring in 5 1/2 years (yeah!) and am hoping to build a retirement cabin that could be year-round or maybe seasonal. Our land is in a very rural county in southern Colorado with plenty of fairly level building sites to choose from. I wouldn't be starting the project until I retire and, once started, I will have 1 year to complete per covenants. I'll be retired so speed of construction isn't a major factor but still a plus. I have worked in general construction before but many years ago and just for a short time. So pretty basic skills and I'll want to do the job right and will seek help or learn the process - whatever it might be - myself. I really like to simplify so the more simple the method the better. Pole construction is pretty attractive and I have " Low-Cost Pole Building Construction" by Ralph Wolfe. I do have quite a bit of experience at setting poles so that would be right up my alley. Anyone have pole building (cabins or homes) experiences they would like to share? Maybe there's another thread that I haven't seen?
Thanks, James
ps- Yes Borrego, this is a great forum! : )
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