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Hobby Thread - January 10, 2026 [TRex]
Welcome hobbyists! Pull up a chair and sit a spell with the Horde in this little corner of the interweb. This is the mighty, mighty officially sanctioned Ace of Spades Hobby Thread. We gave the Ace of Spades Wheel of Hobbies (TM) a spin it landed on home building.
In retrospect, what great idea did you consider and rejected, but now wish you had included? Do you have any secret doors or hidden passageways (that you can disclose)? Did you use pre-packaged plans or hire an architect to create custom plans?
Other than the usual pit of despair that comes from change orders and a bruised bank account, what lessons do you have from your experience of building or renovating? Did you do anything to take care of the workers during your project (like bring coffee in the morning or a cold case of beer at the end of the day from time to time)? Did you have a big party at the end? If so, did you invite people like architect, contractors and subcontractors?
What was the biggest surprise of the process (good or bad)?
Words of wisdom:
"Because despite all our troubles, when things are grim out in that wide round world of ours, that's when it's really important to have a good hobby." Posted by: tankascribe at June 22, 2024 07:41 PM (HWxAD).
If you have trouble finding something in the content or comments that resonates with you, contribute your own. Send thoughts, suggestions and photos of your hobbying to moronhobbies at protonmail dot com. Do mighty things.
Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
Welcome Hobbiests
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 05:30 PM (Ia/+0)
2
How about homewrecking?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 05:31 PM (uQesX)
3
Pizza is out but will be back
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 05:31 PM (Ia/+0)
4
I'm so sorry. Thought it said Hobo Thread. Forgive me, please.
Posted by: Freddie The Freeloader at January 10, 2026 05:35 PM (oftw2)
5
What if your hobby is quasi-legal, or a grey arear as we used to say in Brooklyn.
Posted by: Sal Pagliucca at January 10, 2026 05:37 PM (oftw2)
6
Ha! I actually have some input on this one.
Based on living in a home all my life I suggest the following:
1) Pay close attention on your electrical. Make sure all breakers are fully mapped to what they control. Get a panel at least twice the size you think you need.
2) Put in a lot of outlets. A *lot*. Everything is powered these days. Make sure that the outlets in an area map to different breakers so you don't overload the one.
3) Allow for future cables. If you can, run conduit with pull cords so you can easily run stuff *inside* the walls.
4) Instead of one hot water heater, run just the cold to each area and put in appropriate sized tankless heaters.
5) If you live somewhere hot, do NOT run your cold water in the attic space. One brother's house is like that and they have to hang ice over the shower head to take a shower - ALL their water is HOT, especially in the Arizona summer.
6) Allow for maintenance. Instead of completely walling things in, make a nice little door that's hard to spot but gives access when needed.
These are just the top things I'd do if we built a new house.
Based on living in a home all my life I suggest the following:
1) Pay close attention on your electrical. Make sure all breakers are fully mapped to what they control. Get a panel at least twice the size you think you need.
2) Put in a lot of outlets. A *lot*. Everything is powered these days. Make sure that the outlets in an area map to different breakers so you don't overload the one.
3) Allow for future cables. If you can, run conduit with pull cords so you can easily run stuff *inside* the walls.
4) Instead of one hot water heater, run just the cold to each area and put in appropriate sized tankless heaters.
5) If you live somewhere hot, do NOT run your cold water in the attic space. One brother's house is like that and they have to hang ice over the shower head to take a shower - ALL their water is HOT, especially in the Arizona summer.
6) Allow for maintenance. Instead of completely walling things in, make a nice little door that's hard to spot but gives access when needed.
These are just the top things I'd do if we built a new house.
Posted by: KCSteve at January 10, 2026 05:39 PM (2+WvJ)
7
Hobby thread brought to you by the Gorn Carpenter.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at January 10, 2026 05:39 PM (snZF9)
8
I’m in a 55+ community that’s just over two years old . There are about 450 completed homes of this 3000 home planned community. I can tell you that we definitely need more trades people . The workmanship leaves a lot to be desired. A lot of wasted time fixing screw ups that go beyond a final punch list. And these are by the #1 and # 2 rated production builders in the country.
Posted by: Opinion fact at January 10, 2026 05:41 PM (KDPiq)
9
What's the problem with laying a concrete pad for a couple of shipping containers? A sawzall, a welding torch, some insulation and you're ready to go.
Posted by: mrp at January 10, 2026 05:44 PM (rj6Yv)
Posted by: Commissar of plenty and festive little hats at January 10, 2026 05:45 PM (Kt19C)
11
TRex, I built an ICF house 11 years ago. Love it. R values around 50. We have a walkout basement with a MIL quarters down, 2000ft main and another 2000 play room up.
Our heating and cooling is less than it was with the 980 ft
trailer we had here while building.
We have Hardiboard siding. Also have a "safe room" in the basement that doubles as a root cellar in the winter.
Our heating and cooling is less than it was with the 980 ft
trailer we had here while building.
We have Hardiboard siding. Also have a "safe room" in the basement that doubles as a root cellar in the winter.
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 05:46 PM (q6tQZ)
12
A sink in the laundry room is great.
We have a huge tub in the master bath which is useless to us. It was in the house when we bought it. We need closet room instead of the tub. Very small closet for the master bedroom.
A sink in the laundry room is great.
We have a huge tub in the master bath which is useless to us. It was in the house when we bought it. We need closet room instead of the tub. Very small closet for the master bedroom.
Posted by: fourseasons at January 10, 2026 05:47 PM (3ek7K)
13
I'm looking to build a shop at the farm next year. The biggest problem seems to be getting a concrete truck to the site. We may have to do some roadwork first.
Posted by: fd at January 10, 2026 05:48 PM (vFG9F)
14
Worked as a carpenter for 35 years. Never wanted to do new work, only renovations. Roof over your head, no stomping through mud. In NYC Carpenters Local for 15 years and got to work in hundreds of cool places, NY Yacht Club, billionaire's apartments, etc. There were about 80 guys usually working for the company I worked for, only about 20 were civilized enough to work in occupied offices with women in it. I was never out of work.
Posted by: Nailed It! at January 10, 2026 05:48 PM (oftw2)
15
So many cool hobbies! Thanks for the thread, TRex. I'm working on a Japanese Type 1 Chi-He tank and have a Type 4 Chi-To on deck, both from Fine Molds. Really well designed kits.
Posted by: PA Dutchman at January 10, 2026 05:48 PM (h/O4U)
16
Haven't put this up in awhile
My outbuilding, where my shop and games are
https://tinyurl.com/bdcss6y5
My outbuilding, where my shop and games are
https://tinyurl.com/bdcss6y5
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 05:49 PM (Ia/+0)
17
Some time ago, I think it was NotSoThoreau, posted a link to a guy who builds log cabins.
My dream is to buy 100 acres. Have a home built with solar, a large propane tank and septic, a greenhouse and access to a fishing waterway.
I don’t have the money or the skill. But. I make a mean sammich, will shoot intruders and enjoy, you know. The thing.
Oh well.
My dream is to buy 100 acres. Have a home built with solar, a large propane tank and septic, a greenhouse and access to a fishing waterway.
I don’t have the money or the skill. But. I make a mean sammich, will shoot intruders and enjoy, you know. The thing.
Oh well.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 10, 2026 05:49 PM (IhIKR)
18
I was "well into my 20's" when I gave up slot cars.
Big mistake.
Same with Hot Wheels. But there's a shoebox somewhere with a bunch of them in it. Likely more valuable than Hummels. *
*My ex-wife and her parents were certain they'd make bank on those.
Thus.... "ex"
Big mistake.
Same with Hot Wheels. But there's a shoebox somewhere with a bunch of them in it. Likely more valuable than Hummels. *
*My ex-wife and her parents were certain they'd make bank on those.
Thus.... "ex"
Posted by: Martini Farmer at January 10, 2026 05:50 PM (NwnyJ)
19
My wife hates the house.. we built it handicap compliant (pocket doors, main floor, wide enough staircases to put lifts in)... but it just too big for her.
We have 5 acres next door, and she wants to build a slab on grade ICF there. We're thinking the most internal room will be a pantry, with concrete walls and ceiling. tornado room.
We have 5 acres next door, and she wants to build a slab on grade ICF there. We're thinking the most internal room will be a pantry, with concrete walls and ceiling. tornado room.
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 05:51 PM (q6tQZ)
20
I don't hate the weird diagonal drawer.
Posted by: Oddbob at January 10, 2026 05:51 PM (Fs0KI)
21
That's what I need, Skip. For now though, we're converting an old bedroom into a modeling room for me. That will be my Fortress of Solitude.
Posted by: PA Dutchman at January 10, 2026 05:52 PM (h/O4U)
22
Wow, Skip, looks like the Enchanted Cottage.
Posted by: Nailed It!! at January 10, 2026 05:52 PM (oftw2)
23
Skip,
What is that box like thing in front of the big access door?
What is that box like thing in front of the big access door?
Posted by: lin-duh at January 10, 2026 05:52 PM (VCgbV)
24
Built a house in Mexico as part of a church mission. Mixed and poured the concrete foundation, framed and raised the walls, installed the roof. Crew consisted of about 20 of us. Fun project...
Posted by: Joe Kidd at January 10, 2026 05:52 PM (nbLIj)
25
Skip...love it!
My woodshop, I skinned with sawn telephone poles. It looked 100 years old the day I finished it.
My woodshop, I skinned with sawn telephone poles. It looked 100 years old the day I finished it.
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 05:54 PM (q6tQZ)
26
Even if none of those apply to you, most of you have experience living in a house.
Raise your hand if you were raised by wolves instead of in a house.
Raise your hand if you were raised by wolves instead of in a house.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 05:54 PM (uQesX)
27
I'm about 1/2 way through 3D printing the James Bond Movie poster collection.
I'm going to run out of wall space.
I also finished building the Lego Jaws set.
I ordered the light kit form Amazon, now I need to figure out where to put it for maximum displayage.
Most of the stuff goes goes in my office/den, probably put this in the "arcade."
I'm going to run out of wall space.
I also finished building the Lego Jaws set.
I ordered the light kit form Amazon, now I need to figure out where to put it for maximum displayage.
Most of the stuff goes goes in my office/den, probably put this in the "arcade."
Posted by: Thomas Bender at January 10, 2026 05:56 PM (XV/Pl)
28
16 My outbuilding, where my shop and games are
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 05:49 PM
***
Nice place Skip!
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 05:49 PM
***
Nice place Skip!
Posted by: TRex - high r value dino at January 10, 2026 05:57 PM (IQ6Gq)
29
I frequently have friends/family request I hook up their septic sump pumps and my first question is "do I have to get wet?"
I'll do it for free, unless I have to deal with the unpleasantness of getting wet. Now you're going to pay.
The smell is bad enough, as a freebie.
I'll do it for free, unless I have to deal with the unpleasantness of getting wet. Now you're going to pay.
The smell is bad enough, as a freebie.
Posted by: Rev. Wishbone at January 10, 2026 05:57 PM (BSdIE)
30
My old g.f. has built two houses one on OR and one in AZ just about finished. She is very particular I pity her contractors.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at January 10, 2026 05:57 PM (RIvkX)
31
no videos of Mr Chickadee? He does amazing stuff with Japanese joinery
Posted by: notsothoreau at January 10, 2026 05:57 PM (+mUZM)
32
Sneaky bugger, TRex. Getting ideas for the new house.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026 05:58 PM (sDNVV)
33
I built my own house. Bought the plans and had them reversed.
Added a basement, which was a mistake. Too close to ground water. Also added a Solarium, which is great. Didn't hire anyone except the guy to form the basement walls. It took me 5 years.
I also plumbed it and wired it. Had help on the inside. The exterior walls are 2x6 so it could be insulated better. Done it once, wouldn't want to do it again.
Added a basement, which was a mistake. Too close to ground water. Also added a Solarium, which is great. Didn't hire anyone except the guy to form the basement walls. It took me 5 years.
I also plumbed it and wired it. Had help on the inside. The exterior walls are 2x6 so it could be insulated better. Done it once, wouldn't want to do it again.
Posted by: Ronster at January 10, 2026 05:58 PM (gRFnH)
34
I don't hate the weird diagonal drawer.
Posted by: Oddbob at January 10, 2026 05:51 PM (Fs0KI)
Nothing wrong with it. Corner cabinets have a lot of wasted space. That drawer makes it useable. A lazy susan should be down below for easier storage of pots and pans.
Posted by: Oddbob at January 10, 2026 05:51 PM (Fs0KI)
Nothing wrong with it. Corner cabinets have a lot of wasted space. That drawer makes it useable. A lazy susan should be down below for easier storage of pots and pans.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 05:59 PM (uQesX)
35
Both my grandmothers, Mom, MIL, and all my aunts knit mittens in a similar style to the Swedish ones up top. All Norwegian ladies, grandmas born 1890s, Mom and sisters (6 of them) born in the 30s, MIL born 1921.
All went to a home ec type school from age 16-18. All could cook and bake well. Sturdy, cool women with lots of skills.
All went to a home ec type school from age 16-18. All could cook and bake well. Sturdy, cool women with lots of skills.
Posted by: Nordic Interiors at January 10, 2026 05:59 PM (oftw2)
36
Cause '[m in the tree biz, I saved a bunch of ash logs from a boulevard in KC, all over 100 yrs old, and had them sawn into lumber. My 1st floor trim is all gnarly ash, except the bedroom (walnut) and the office (quartersawn sycamore.)
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 05:59 PM (q6tQZ)
37
15 I'm working on a Japanese Type 1 Chi-He tank and have a Type 4 Chi-To on deck
Posted by: PA Dutchman at January 10, 2026 05:48 PM
***
Japanese tanks is quite a niche.
Posted by: PA Dutchman at January 10, 2026 05:48 PM
***
Japanese tanks is quite a niche.
Posted by: TRex - tank you! appreciatve dino at January 10, 2026 06:00 PM (IQ6Gq)
38
And, no. I'm not like the moneybags here. I bought one house, used, and I'll never buy another. Poor people make due.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:00 PM (uQesX)
39
I do like watching This Old House ( the newer episodes) just to see true artisans in the building crafts and not just some non English speaking crews trying to get through their daily tasks as quickly as possible.
Posted by: Opinion fact at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (KDPiq)
40
I’d also be happy living on a sailboat. But not alone. I don’t have the skill.
But I can cook a gourmet meal at sea. During a storm. And then take the helm for a spell.
But I can cook a gourmet meal at sea. During a storm. And then take the helm for a spell.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (IhIKR)
41
That is not plywood, that is OSB.
Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (/lPRQ)
42
Even if none of those apply to you, most of you have experience living in a house.
Raise your hand if you were raised by wolves instead of in a house.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026
***
* Raises paw * Do coyotes count?
I've always lived in apartments. Never had a house, including when I grew up. One of the reasons I'm so determined to buy one myself.
Raise your hand if you were raised by wolves instead of in a house.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026
***
* Raises paw * Do coyotes count?
I've always lived in apartments. Never had a house, including when I grew up. One of the reasons I'm so determined to buy one myself.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (wzUl9)
43
Nurse,
Have you ever been to Olallie Lake in Oregon? It's been awhile, so I don't know how much it has changed. It's in the Three Sisters area. Old Forest Service cabins with wood heat and kerosene lamps, outhouses. No motors allowed on the lake. Last time I was there, no cell service. Really a wonderful place to get away. I love the cabins there. I am not sure about the link of the log cabin. I did have a friend that was building one.
Have you ever been to Olallie Lake in Oregon? It's been awhile, so I don't know how much it has changed. It's in the Three Sisters area. Old Forest Service cabins with wood heat and kerosene lamps, outhouses. No motors allowed on the lake. Last time I was there, no cell service. Really a wonderful place to get away. I love the cabins there. I am not sure about the link of the log cabin. I did have a friend that was building one.
Posted by: notsothoreau at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (+mUZM)
44
31 no videos of Mr Chickadee? He does amazing stuff with Japanese joinery
Posted by: notsothoreau at January 10, 2026 05:57 PM
***
Was not familiar but have added his channel to my list of YT rabbit holes.
Posted by: notsothoreau at January 10, 2026 05:57 PM
***
Was not familiar but have added his channel to my list of YT rabbit holes.
Posted by: TRex - domo arigato dino at January 10, 2026 06:04 PM (IQ6Gq)
45
I don't know where I got the nerve at 26 to saw a hole in the roof of my father's house to install an attic roof fan, wired it up and everything. Without his permission. No, I wasn't still living there. I know for some of you, that's nothing. The only background I had was a couple of college electronics classes
When I think how badly this could have turned out...
When I think how badly this could have turned out...
Posted by: JM in Illinois at January 10, 2026 06:05 PM (1lTYe)
46
https://tinyurl.com/yc58shnw
The inside of outbuilding
I did almost 95% myself, only a hand with concrete and some roof
The inside of outbuilding
I did almost 95% myself, only a hand with concrete and some roof
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 06:05 PM (Ia/+0)
47
I do like watching This Old House ( the newer episodes) just to see true artisans in the building crafts and not just some non English speaking crews trying to get through their daily tasks as quickly as possible.
Posted by: Opinion fact at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (KDPiq)
I watched the Bob Vila episodes last year. It used to be outside contractors coming in to help. Now, it's just the same companies. The program has become a generational wealth generator for the on-air talent. Not saying they're not good, but the current host has been on for over twenty years and the contractor for over thirty. I'd like to see how well others do the job.
Posted by: Opinion fact at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (KDPiq)
I watched the Bob Vila episodes last year. It used to be outside contractors coming in to help. Now, it's just the same companies. The program has become a generational wealth generator for the on-air talent. Not saying they're not good, but the current host has been on for over twenty years and the contractor for over thirty. I'd like to see how well others do the job.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:05 PM (uQesX)
48
The box is a hose reel
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 06:06 PM (Ia/+0)
49
36 Cause '[m in the tree biz, I saved a bunch of ash logs from a boulevard in KC, all over 100 yrs old, and had them sawn into lumber. My 1st floor trim is all gnarly ash, except the bedroom (walnut) and the office (quartersawn sycamore.)
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 05:59 PM
***
Impressive. Nothing like great lumber.
Say more words about the "tree biz." What type of biz?
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 05:59 PM
***
Impressive. Nothing like great lumber.
Say more words about the "tree biz." What type of biz?
Posted by: TRex - forestry dino at January 10, 2026 06:06 PM (IQ6Gq)
50
Ronster is right - 2x6 walls are the way to go. Our little house has them and it keeps our bills low.
Posted by: KCSteve at January 10, 2026 06:07 PM (2+WvJ)
51
Where's the pencil for us-transhanded people? Huh? Racist!
Posted by: JM in Illinois at January 10, 2026 06:07 PM (1lTYe)
52
* Raises paw * Do coyotes count?
I've always lived in apartments. Never had a house, including when I grew up. One of the reasons I'm so determined to buy one myself.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (wzUl9)
Sure! Why not? Remember to always get an inspection, even if you have to pay for it yourself. Save yourself a lot of grief if you buy an older home that a previous owner has "improved."
I've always lived in apartments. Never had a house, including when I grew up. One of the reasons I'm so determined to buy one myself.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (wzUl9)
Sure! Why not? Remember to always get an inspection, even if you have to pay for it yourself. Save yourself a lot of grief if you buy an older home that a previous owner has "improved."
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:07 PM (uQesX)
53
nosothoreau,
I’ve not been there. But. I do love the Okanagon in WA State. The area around LoupLoup is amazing. Altitude, pine trees, seclusion…..
Again. I couldn’t do it by myself.
I’m an amazing supporter. But I don’t have the skills or the confidence to be an alpha.
I’ve not been there. But. I do love the Okanagon in WA State. The area around LoupLoup is amazing. Altitude, pine trees, seclusion…..
Again. I couldn’t do it by myself.
I’m an amazing supporter. But I don’t have the skills or the confidence to be an alpha.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 10, 2026 06:08 PM (IhIKR)
54
Mr Chickadee, Korean floor without nails. He is self taught and uses hand tools.
https://youtu.be/GgVekcX_NYk
https://youtu.be/GgVekcX_NYk
Posted by: Notsothoreau at January 10, 2026 06:08 PM (+mUZM)
55
Trex We trim and do small removals. About half is insect and disease control. I've become a boutique contractor.
Smaller I get, the more i make
Smaller I get, the more i make
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 06:11 PM (q6tQZ)
56
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:05 PM (uQesX)
They bring in different contractors depending on the location. I also like to watch the Canadian guy Mike Holmes who comes in to fix other contractors screw ups.
They bring in different contractors depending on the location. I also like to watch the Canadian guy Mike Holmes who comes in to fix other contractors screw ups.
Posted by: Opinion fact at January 10, 2026 06:11 PM (KDPiq)
57
I actually kind of like that double-drawer. True, you couldn't use either drawer to the side while it was open, but tell me you have all the kitchen space you need.
Posted by: BeckoningChasm at January 10, 2026 06:12 PM (CHHv1)
58
And there's Bruke, in Japan. The series on building the cabin was fun. He keeps adding on and doing more to it.
https://tinyurl.com/34wrcekc
https://tinyurl.com/34wrcekc
Posted by: Notsothoreau at January 10, 2026 06:12 PM (+mUZM)
59
I'm a kitchen person. Our kitchen is small, very few cabinets and no pantry.
Living in rural Wyoming, a big pantry would be great. You have to stock up for winter here because sometimes you can't get to the small grocery if it's a bad winter.
I hate the small double sinks we have. If I had the space I would have two regular size sinks. Trying to clean 13 by 9 pans is a pita.
I'm a kitchen person. Our kitchen is small, very few cabinets and no pantry.
Living in rural Wyoming, a big pantry would be great. You have to stock up for winter here because sometimes you can't get to the small grocery if it's a bad winter.
I hate the small double sinks we have. If I had the space I would have two regular size sinks. Trying to clean 13 by 9 pans is a pita.
Posted by: fourseasons at January 10, 2026 06:13 PM (3ek7K)
60
I've always lived in apartments. Never had a house, including when I grew up. One of the reasons I'm so determined to buy one myself.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (wzUl9)
Sure! Why not? Remember to always get an inspection, even if you have to pay for it yourself. Save yourself a lot of grief if you buy an older home that a previous owner has "improved."
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026
***
I have inspections done on used cars I'm thinking of buying. Darn straight I'll have a property that costs 10x more than a car checked out before I sign!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:01 PM (wzUl9)
Sure! Why not? Remember to always get an inspection, even if you have to pay for it yourself. Save yourself a lot of grief if you buy an older home that a previous owner has "improved."
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026
***
I have inspections done on used cars I'm thinking of buying. Darn straight I'll have a property that costs 10x more than a car checked out before I sign!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:14 PM (wzUl9)
61
Corner cabinets can be a few ways made, lazy Susan. Deep one side, double doors to both or in commercial it just becomes wasted space
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 06:15 PM (Ia/+0)
62
6 Ha! I actually have some input on this one.
These are just the top things I'd do if we built a new house.
Posted by: KCSteve at January 10, 2026 05:39 PM
***
Good stuff. Thank you!
These are just the top things I'd do if we built a new house.
Posted by: KCSteve at January 10, 2026 05:39 PM
***
Good stuff. Thank you!
Posted by: TRex - custom made dino at January 10, 2026 06:15 PM (IQ6Gq)
63
Never 'built' a house but have done some modifications that weren't structural. Tore up the wall to wall carpet which was disintegrating and the original tile underneath and replaced it with new tile. One wall was covered in cork panels glued to wood paneling. (We had questions about the sanity or at least the judgement of the previous owners.) It all got scraped off. Spent a couple of weeks on my knees which I couldn't do now. Painted the non-panel walls and installed wood trim I made myself along the ceiling and floor. Mrs. JTB made the drapes, hand sewing them on the new floor because we didn't have any other space big enough, which have held up beautifully.
Posted by: JTB at January 10, 2026 06:15 PM (yTvNw)
64
It's really hard to live remotely. And having done without electricity, everything takes twice as long to do. I do sometimes miss being in the mountains. But it's a high elevation here and certainly a lot easier way to live. We could use a Camp MoMe
Posted by: Notsothoreau at January 10, 2026 06:15 PM (+mUZM)
65
Trex.
See if there's an ICF builder in your area. In KC, the guy running Habitat introduced it.
"We were giving them $500 mortgages, and $500 heating bills"
See if there's an ICF builder in your area. In KC, the guy running Habitat introduced it.
"We were giving them $500 mortgages, and $500 heating bills"
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 06:15 PM (q6tQZ)
66
Fourseasons, thanks for the confirmations. The kitchen is my world, so pantry and sink are high on the list. As is the kitchen island. Had a great one in CA that I still miss.
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at January 10, 2026 06:15 PM (IQ6Gq)
67
"But first, a few words about shop safety..."
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 10, 2026 06:16 PM (Wnv9h)
68
They bring in different contractors depending on the location. I also like to watch the Canadian guy Mike Holmes who comes in to fix other contractors screw ups.
Posted by: Opinion fact at January 10, 2026 06:11 PM (KDPiq)
Yeah, whenever they go outside of their area. Probably because Silva Bros. isn't licensed there. Like the Hawaii episode with Steve Thomas. I noticed Richard Tretheway seems to go everywhere, even the UK.
I watched some of Holmes, too. I guess he's sort of in hot water with that subdivision he endorsed that started falling apart.
Posted by: Opinion fact at January 10, 2026 06:11 PM (KDPiq)
Yeah, whenever they go outside of their area. Probably because Silva Bros. isn't licensed there. Like the Hawaii episode with Steve Thomas. I noticed Richard Tretheway seems to go everywhere, even the UK.
I watched some of Holmes, too. I guess he's sort of in hot water with that subdivision he endorsed that started falling apart.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:16 PM (uQesX)
69
Rank volunteers can build the bones of an CF house.
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 06:16 PM (q6tQZ)
70
ICF
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 06:17 PM (q6tQZ)
71
Now we're onto something I can relate to! I started framing houses when I was 19 years old and even charted my own company that paid taxes and all that. That was a few years ago (pre-Mexico) and I no longer make a living doing it but I've used the experience to 'customize' every house we've lived in.
We downsized to a 1972 era 2,200sf one story that from the outside looks original. The bedrooms are mostly original (stole a closet from a room for our master), total upgrades to both baths and where there used to be a den, kitchen, living room and breakfast nook became one big room with a cathedral ceiling.
Entire house has traditional oak floors and double pane, double throw windows. House didn't have gas when we moved in but it does now. Whole house water filtration, in house vacuum system and heated swimming pool were finishing touches.
I did all of the structural carpentry and paid the pros when it came to sheetrock, painting and staining.
Home sweet home!!
We downsized to a 1972 era 2,200sf one story that from the outside looks original. The bedrooms are mostly original (stole a closet from a room for our master), total upgrades to both baths and where there used to be a den, kitchen, living room and breakfast nook became one big room with a cathedral ceiling.
Entire house has traditional oak floors and double pane, double throw windows. House didn't have gas when we moved in but it does now. Whole house water filtration, in house vacuum system and heated swimming pool were finishing touches.
I did all of the structural carpentry and paid the pros when it came to sheetrock, painting and staining.
Home sweet home!!
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 06:17 PM (8uzBS)
72
Building now I would do steel frame, double concrete walls spaced 8 inches apart with ground plastic as a filler between them. The insulation factor would be off the scale.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026 06:17 PM (sDNVV)
73
63 (We had questions about the sanity or at least the judgement of the previous owners.)
Posted by: JTB at January 10, 2026 06:15 PM
***
I'm guessing that many have war stories. Some are horror stories but many are just baffling. Must have made sense at the time, but why?
Posted by: JTB at January 10, 2026 06:15 PM
***
I'm guessing that many have war stories. Some are horror stories but many are just baffling. Must have made sense at the time, but why?
Posted by: TRex - logical dino at January 10, 2026 06:17 PM (IQ6Gq)
74
four seasons,
It’s so amazing to hear from y’all who have to prepare for being cut off for extended periods. Here, folks freak out if they are without power for 3-4 days.
Self sufficiency is a truly American value. The government is t going to swoop in and save you. And why would you want them to? Build it! Figure out how to stay dry and warm. Figure out how to provide food for your family. This is freaking America. I love it here.
It’s so amazing to hear from y’all who have to prepare for being cut off for extended periods. Here, folks freak out if they are without power for 3-4 days.
Self sufficiency is a truly American value. The government is t going to swoop in and save you. And why would you want them to? Build it! Figure out how to stay dry and warm. Figure out how to provide food for your family. This is freaking America. I love it here.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 10, 2026 06:18 PM (IhIKR)
75
The Grateful, a warming drawer is a must.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026 06:19 PM (sDNVV)
76
My friend in Oregon has an old house with a real pantry. The woman they got it from wasborn in the house. It had no foundation and an outhouse. They had the foundation done and turned the shed into an attached bathroom. It's a walk in pantry with lots of storage and counter space.
Posted by: Notsothoreau at January 10, 2026 06:19 PM (+mUZM)
77
The kitchen is my world, so pantry and sink are high on the list. As is the kitchen island. Had a great one in CA that I still miss.
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at January 10, 2026
***
I am definitely sick of the tiny galley-like kitchen I've lived with here for two decades. I want an eat-in kitchen if I can get one, or at least one with more room to move around.
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at January 10, 2026
***
I am definitely sick of the tiny galley-like kitchen I've lived with here for two decades. I want an eat-in kitchen if I can get one, or at least one with more room to move around.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:20 PM (wzUl9)
78
The Grateful, a warming drawer is a must.
Posted by: Ben Had
***********
absolutely right! I've only ever had cooktops, no warming drawers. But that will definitely change, thanks.
Posted by: Ben Had
***********
absolutely right! I've only ever had cooktops, no warming drawers. But that will definitely change, thanks.
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at January 10, 2026 06:21 PM (IQ6Gq)
79
71 Now we're onto something I can relate to! I started framing houses when I was 19 years old and even charted my own company that paid taxes and all that.
in house vacuum system
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 06:17 PM
***
Thanks for jumping in. Say more words about the in house vacuum system. Is that one of those things where the plumbing is built in and you just plug your vacuum hose into a portal in each room? Why worth it?
in house vacuum system
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 06:17 PM
***
Thanks for jumping in. Say more words about the in house vacuum system. Is that one of those things where the plumbing is built in and you just plug your vacuum hose into a portal in each room? Why worth it?
Posted by: TRex - dusty dino at January 10, 2026 06:23 PM (IQ6Gq)
80
The other thing I'd like is a walk-in shower with a door. I'm tired of a tub with shower curtains and liners. In a couple of places I've lived I had a tub setup with metal-trimmed frosted sliding doors, and those were great.
Where I grew up, we had not only a tub and sink, but a tiled shower enclosure with a bench and door. I loved that.
Wondering how these Jacuzzi shower upgrades I see ads for on TV would hold up and work in actual practice. Has anybody goen that route?
Where I grew up, we had not only a tub and sink, but a tiled shower enclosure with a bench and door. I loved that.
Wondering how these Jacuzzi shower upgrades I see ads for on TV would hold up and work in actual practice. Has anybody goen that route?
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:23 PM (wzUl9)
81
I would have a kitchen with a few rooms attached. Kitchen with a sitting area opening onto an outdoor covered dining area.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026 06:25 PM (sDNVV)
82
Ideally, I'd like a door from the driveway under a carport that goes right into the kitchen. It'd be so neat to park the car and bring groceries straight in without running through the rain.
But I'll take a garage over that anytime.
But I'll take a garage over that anytime.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:25 PM (wzUl9)
83
Is that one of those things where the plumbing is built in and you just plug your vacuum hose into a portal in each room? Why worth it?
Posted by: TRex - dusty dino at January 10, 2026 06:23 PM (IQ6Gq)
I am interested too. Always seemed like a cool idea to me and would be handy, but I wonder about draw backs.
Posted by: TRex - dusty dino at January 10, 2026 06:23 PM (IQ6Gq)
I am interested too. Always seemed like a cool idea to me and would be handy, but I wonder about draw backs.
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026 06:26 PM (zZu0s)
84
I would have a kitchen with a few rooms attached. Kitchen with a sitting area opening onto an outdoor covered dining area.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026
***
I'd love a door from the kitchen out to the back yard or patio/deck/porch.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026
***
I'd love a door from the kitchen out to the back yard or patio/deck/porch.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:27 PM (wzUl9)
85
Hallways and doors. 5 ft wide and double doors on each room.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026 06:27 PM (sDNVV)
86
I watched some of Holmes, too. I guess he's sort of in hot water with that subdivision he endorsed that started falling apart.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:16 PM (uQesX)
Holmes on Homes definitely a disappointment.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:16 PM (uQesX)
Holmes on Homes definitely a disappointment.
Posted by: Opinion fact at January 10, 2026 06:28 PM (KDPiq)
87
Thanks for the outstanding Hobby Thread, T-Rex!
Nice looking dino up top. Would that be someone you know?
Owned homes, had one built, and only had problems with the one professionally built. Plumbing is easily done on the cheap by contractors and subs if you don't know enough to specify quality on the install.
Nice looking dino up top. Would that be someone you know?
Owned homes, had one built, and only had problems with the one professionally built. Plumbing is easily done on the cheap by contractors and subs if you don't know enough to specify quality on the install.
Posted by: Legally Sufficient at January 10, 2026 06:29 PM (kB9dk)
88
I had a house in FL that had an odd feature. It was CBS but the blocks had a bevel on the outside that made it look like siding. It was pretty unique, there were a couple of others in the neighborhood. Turns out the blocks were extra heavy and the masons hated building with them so it died out.
That place was built so solid and on one of the highest spots in Brevard county.
I redid the kitchen with solid hickory cabinets and it was really striking. Everyone commented on it.
That place was built so solid and on one of the highest spots in Brevard county.
I redid the kitchen with solid hickory cabinets and it was really striking. Everyone commented on it.
Posted by: pawn at January 10, 2026 06:29 PM (Rmqfl)
89
Ideally, I'd like a door from the driveway under a carport that goes right into the kitchen. It'd be so neat to park the car and bring groceries straight in without running through the rain.
But I'll take a garage over that anytime.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:25 PM (wzUl9)
----
Garages are awesome. Two car garage even if you only have one car. Then you have storage/workspace.
But I'll take a garage over that anytime.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:25 PM (wzUl9)
----
Garages are awesome. Two car garage even if you only have one car. Then you have storage/workspace.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at January 10, 2026 06:29 PM (ESVrU)
90
Hi TRex! And Grateful! Another outstanding thread - I'll be spending time going thru the videos, and over the comments again. Shout out to KC Steve's comments at the start - some things I wish I knew earlier. In the menatime, a new train layout is in works, as are varrious 1/72 scale oddities.
Posted by: Patches at January 10, 2026 06:30 PM (BkZ3B)
91
My dad's idea of relaxing was building. We moved a number of times when I was young for my dad's job and every home they bought my dad added something, from bookcases and cabinets to sun rooms and kitchen remodels.
It culminated with them buying a farm that was originally built around 1800 and hadn't been lived in for 50 years when they bought it. My dad and his slave, me, rebuilt and renovated virtually every bit of that place including turning the cow barn into a horse barn. Turned out pretty damn good and I learned a lot but once is enough.
It culminated with them buying a farm that was originally built around 1800 and hadn't been lived in for 50 years when they bought it. My dad and his slave, me, rebuilt and renovated virtually every bit of that place including turning the cow barn into a horse barn. Turned out pretty damn good and I learned a lot but once is enough.
Posted by: JackStraw at January 10, 2026 06:30 PM (viF8m)
92
Also ideally, I'd like a house situated on the north side of an east-west street. Less direct sunlight in summer, more in winter, like Anasazi cave dwellings.
Failing that, and it'll be a miracle if I find one so located that I also love, I'd like a shaded front porch. If not that, then I'd like to put awnings over the windows.
Failing that, and it'll be a miracle if I find one so located that I also love, I'd like a shaded front porch. If not that, then I'd like to put awnings over the windows.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:30 PM (wzUl9)
93
I am interested too. Always seemed like a cool idea to me and would be handy, but I wonder about draw backs.
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026 06:26 PM (zZu0s)
You mean a mass of things getting stuck in the tubing? You'd probably have to get it cleaned regularly.
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026 06:26 PM (zZu0s)
You mean a mass of things getting stuck in the tubing? You'd probably have to get it cleaned regularly.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:31 PM (uQesX)
94
90 In the menatime, a new train layout is in works, as are varrious 1/72 scale oddities.
Posted by: Patches at January 10, 2026 06:30 PM
***
Patches! Good evening. Good to virtually see you.
Posted by: Patches at January 10, 2026 06:30 PM
***
Patches! Good evening. Good to virtually see you.
Posted by: TRex - scale oddity dino at January 10, 2026 06:31 PM (IQ6Gq)
95
I have a garage with this apartment. First one i have ever had (aside from Parents gouse.)
I love it sexually. It is awesome. You do not realize how awesome it is to pull in a car covered in snow in sub zero temps and when you get it out the next day, it is clean (maybe salty, but no ice/snow.)
I love it sexually. It is awesome. You do not realize how awesome it is to pull in a car covered in snow in sub zero temps and when you get it out the next day, it is clean (maybe salty, but no ice/snow.)
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026 06:32 PM (zZu0s)
96
Garages are awesome. Two car garage even if you only have one car. Then you have storage/workspace.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at January 10, 2026
***
Exactly. I'd like to have the space to change the oil in my car again. Jack stands, wheel chocks, a creeper so I can slide under easily, and something sturdy I can pour the used oil into so I can take it to recycling. All of those require some room.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at January 10, 2026
***
Exactly. I'd like to have the space to change the oil in my car again. Jack stands, wheel chocks, a creeper so I can slide under easily, and something sturdy I can pour the used oil into so I can take it to recycling. All of those require some room.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:32 PM (wzUl9)
97
Our parents moved to one of the sister's property and I designed and built a 1,200 2 br, 2 bath house on it. Began it January 1, 2010 and had them in it by my dad's 85th birthday on June 5 of that year.
My BIL wired it and his son helped me frame it.
I would drive 5 hours each way most weekends and we would buy lumber and other items from the local Builders Square in Greenville, Tx. My dad and I were in line one day and he mumbled "I don't know why they give me a military discount, I didn't do anything".
I just about lost my chili when I heard that. He joined WWII at 17 and was discharged as an Ensign in the Navy when it ended, He was never assigned a ship and his father died in a military plane crash into Mt. Deception within a couple of weeks of Japan surrendering. He was told they were looking for a route to China in order to supply fuel for aircraft stationing in expectation of going to war with Japan.
My BIL wired it and his son helped me frame it.
I would drive 5 hours each way most weekends and we would buy lumber and other items from the local Builders Square in Greenville, Tx. My dad and I were in line one day and he mumbled "I don't know why they give me a military discount, I didn't do anything".
I just about lost my chili when I heard that. He joined WWII at 17 and was discharged as an Ensign in the Navy when it ended, He was never assigned a ship and his father died in a military plane crash into Mt. Deception within a couple of weeks of Japan surrendering. He was told they were looking for a route to China in order to supply fuel for aircraft stationing in expectation of going to war with Japan.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 06:33 PM (8uzBS)
98
87 Thanks for the outstanding Hobby Thread, T-Rex!
Posted by: Legally Sufficient at January 10, 2026 06:29 PM
***
Greetings and thank you!
Posted by: Legally Sufficient at January 10, 2026 06:29 PM
***
Greetings and thank you!
Posted by: TRex - subcontracted dino at January 10, 2026 06:33 PM (IQ6Gq)
99
I have a garage with this apartment. First one i have ever had (aside from Parents gouse.)
I love it sexually. It is awesome. You do not realize how awesome it is to pull in a car covered in snow in sub zero temps and when you get it out the next day, it is clean (maybe salty, but no ice/snow.)
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026
***
Just my plan!
I love it sexually. It is awesome. You do not realize how awesome it is to pull in a car covered in snow in sub zero temps and when you get it out the next day, it is clean (maybe salty, but no ice/snow.)
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026
***
Just my plan!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:33 PM (wzUl9)
100
My house had a one car garage that was converted to another bedroom. I really wish it was a garage as I could use the storage space. I gotta purge a bunch of stuff to make that room usable.
Posted by: Notsothoreau at January 10, 2026 06:34 PM (+mUZM)
101
And the garage will keep your car shaded from the hot sun in summer. If I can have a carport over the driveway to the garage, I can leave the car there, too.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at January 10, 2026 06:34 PM (wzUl9)
102
I always wanted to build a secret fortified safe room but now that I moved and had a production house built I don’t think I’m ever going to do it.
I had the plans completed to do it in my old house but decided I needed to escape the big city while I could.
I have though started some preliminary planning to turn the small third bedroom into a safe room. It’s located at the end of a hallway where a ‘built in book cabinet’ can take the place of the bedroom door.
I had the plans completed to do it in my old house but decided I needed to escape the big city while I could.
I have though started some preliminary planning to turn the small third bedroom into a safe room. It’s located at the end of a hallway where a ‘built in book cabinet’ can take the place of the bedroom door.
Posted by: Opinion fact at January 10, 2026 06:34 PM (KDPiq)
103
You mean a mass of things getting stuck in the tubing? You'd probably have to get it cleaned regularly.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:31 PM (uQesX)
Snake the tubing maybe? I also wonder if the vacuum pressure could ever be as good as a good hand vacuum.
I wonder how good a vacuum Mammaws giant chrome ball was? She kept it and used it for 30 years or so.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:31 PM (uQesX)
Snake the tubing maybe? I also wonder if the vacuum pressure could ever be as good as a good hand vacuum.
I wonder how good a vacuum Mammaws giant chrome ball was? She kept it and used it for 30 years or so.
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026 06:34 PM (zZu0s)
104
Promethius and the California Rose.
Posted by: Commissar of plenty and festive little hats at January 10, 2026 06:37 PM (Kt19C)
105
Snake the tubing maybe? I also wonder if the vacuum pressure could ever be as good as a good hand vacuum.
I wonder how good a vacuum Mammaws giant chrome ball was? She kept it and used it for 30 years or so.
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026 06:34 PM (zZu0s)
Considering the distance between the vacuum head and the collection point, I'd think unless it was a big-ass motor, you'd have some issues.
Grandparents had a Kirby. Metal with a thick cloth bag, almost curtain weight. Scary to a little kid.
I wonder how good a vacuum Mammaws giant chrome ball was? She kept it and used it for 30 years or so.
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026 06:34 PM (zZu0s)
Considering the distance between the vacuum head and the collection point, I'd think unless it was a big-ass motor, you'd have some issues.
Grandparents had a Kirby. Metal with a thick cloth bag, almost curtain weight. Scary to a little kid.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:37 PM (uQesX)
106
I'll one up you. I'd like a heated garage with a mud room and a laundry with a shower. I guess we can't all be millionaires.
Posted by: Rev. Wishbone at January 10, 2026 06:38 PM (BSdIE)
107
So it was a Hoover Constellation she had.
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026 06:39 PM (zZu0s)
108
Our house was built in 93 and has a central vac. It handles downstairs and up, plus the garage when the motor and canister is located. You just have to plug the hose into one of the 5 outlets in the house and it turns the motor on.
Mrs fd likes it. I replaced the motor one time about 10 years ago. The canister holds a whole lot of cat hair before I have to dump it.
Mrs fd likes it. I replaced the motor one time about 10 years ago. The canister holds a whole lot of cat hair before I have to dump it.
Posted by: fd at January 10, 2026 06:41 PM (vFG9F)
109
Had a built in vacuum many years ago and hauling around 20’ of hose is a PITA. Don’t know if they’ve improved over the years but I’d never have another one
Posted by: kelly at January 10, 2026 06:41 PM (tnwP5)
110
A cool thing a neighbor had done was had her dishwasher raised. I think she had a couple of shelves over.
It was so easy to load and unload.
A cool thing a neighbor had done was had her dishwasher raised. I think she had a couple of shelves over.
It was so easy to load and unload.
Posted by: fourseasons at January 10, 2026 06:42 PM (3ek7K)
111
Thanks for jumping in. Say more words about the in house vacuum system. Is that one of those things where the plumbing is built in and you just plug your vacuum hose into a portal in each room? Why worth it?
Posted by: TRex - dusty dino
Had one in the house I grew up in. The vac itself was hung on an outside wall. Piping was, I think, 1-1/2 nominal PVC. Folks had dogs who left a lot of big kibbles on the floor. Sucked them right up. Was like a shop vac for power and what it could inhale.
Posted by: TRex - dusty dino
Had one in the house I grew up in. The vac itself was hung on an outside wall. Piping was, I think, 1-1/2 nominal PVC. Folks had dogs who left a lot of big kibbles on the floor. Sucked them right up. Was like a shop vac for power and what it could inhale.
Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at January 10, 2026 06:42 PM (/lPRQ)
112
We are on our third retirement home since 2006. All 3 were custom designs where we found the plans and did all of the design choices on cabinets, flooring, fixtures, appliances and all other details. We didn’t swing a hammer, however we were heavily invested in the design. The home we’re in now we scanned the details from online and I modified them using Paint and than they were handed to an architect to make them work..
Our builder wanted us to use their designer, no, not needed. I actually bought antique items, including gas lamp arms that I refurbished and dressers that I used for bathroom vanities and most of the lighting in the house. Also refurbished a mantle circa 1850 that’s being used in our living room. This is our last home and it’s all me in design.
Our builder wanted us to use their designer, no, not needed. I actually bought antique items, including gas lamp arms that I refurbished and dressers that I used for bathroom vanities and most of the lighting in the house. Also refurbished a mantle circa 1850 that’s being used in our living room. This is our last home and it’s all me in design.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at January 10, 2026 06:43 PM (2NHgQ)
113
Say more words about the in house vacuum system. Is that one of those things where the plumbing is built in and you just plug your vacuum hose into a portal in each room? Why worth it?
It was put in after I was pretty much finished. It has one port in the house and one in the garage where the unit is. It's an ElectroLux system, I paid to have it installed and it cost around $1,100 installed and with all the attachments. The plumbing is thin walled PVC. Hose is long enough to reach everywhere in the house except 2' in the utility room that can be reached from the garage. I like it because it doesn't kick up any dust like a bagger will.
It was put in after I was pretty much finished. It has one port in the house and one in the garage where the unit is. It's an ElectroLux system, I paid to have it installed and it cost around $1,100 installed and with all the attachments. The plumbing is thin walled PVC. Hose is long enough to reach everywhere in the house except 2' in the utility room that can be reached from the garage. I like it because it doesn't kick up any dust like a bagger will.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 06:44 PM (8uzBS)
114
There's a guy in town with a small open garage with a lift. Kinda neat
Posted by: Notsothoreau at January 10, 2026 06:45 PM (+mUZM)
115
Hose is long enough to reach everywhere in the house except 2' in the utility room that can be reached from the garage. I like it because it doesn't kick up any dust like a bagger will.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 06:44 PM (8uzBS)
That only happens in the sand traps.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 06:44 PM (8uzBS)
That only happens in the sand traps.
Posted by: Vance at January 10, 2026 06:46 PM (uQesX)
116
Does anyone know how to reach Sarah Hoyt by email? (Reading and writing fiction are hobbies.)
Posted by: Dark Litigator at January 10, 2026 06:48 PM (KAi1n)
117
Not about building but dealing with a house already built. The house I grew up in was built circa 1860s. For some reason my dad decided to put in a doorway from kitchen to dining room through a wall. I was too little to help beyond handing him tools. The walls were plaster mixed with horse hair and layered over chicken wire. Wallpaper covered the plaster. If you haven't dealt with that stuff, it is tough. You can't just break it out like drywall. Use a hammer to crack the plaster enough to get a hacksaw blade in to cut the wire and peel off sections. It is a slow, dusty process. Haven't lived in that house for over 50 years but I bet the walls are still standing solid.
Posted by: JTB at January 10, 2026 06:48 PM (yTvNw)
118
Interior stucco is the way to go.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026 06:48 PM (sDNVV)
119
The next shop I build will have a lift. I'm tired of working around jack stands.
Posted by: fd at January 10, 2026 06:48 PM (vFG9F)
120
101/ If you are considering buying in KY or southern IL or IN, you might seriously prefer a garage over a carport. Each of those areas has four seasons, which means lots of rain, as well as snow and ice. And it's nice to have the shade during the hot summer. Just a thought
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at January 10, 2026 06:49 PM (IQ6Gq)
121
74 four seasons,
It’s so amazing to hear from y’all who have to prepare for being cut off for extended periods. Here, folks freak out if they are without power for 3-4 days.
Self sufficiency is a truly American value. The government is t going to swoop in and save you. And why would you want them to? Build it! Figure out how to stay dry and warm. Figure out how to provide food for your family. This is freaking America. I love it here.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 10, 2026 06:18 PM (IhIK
----
People who came here since 1620 (how bold!), for the longest time, did not have any store to go to. Established a long tradition of building or making do.
It’s so amazing to hear from y’all who have to prepare for being cut off for extended periods. Here, folks freak out if they are without power for 3-4 days.
Self sufficiency is a truly American value. The government is t going to swoop in and save you. And why would you want them to? Build it! Figure out how to stay dry and warm. Figure out how to provide food for your family. This is freaking America. I love it here.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 10, 2026 06:18 PM (IhIK
----
People who came here since 1620 (how bold!), for the longest time, did not have any store to go to. Established a long tradition of building or making do.
Posted by: JM in Illinois at January 10, 2026 06:50 PM (1lTYe)
122
As a kid the house I mostly grew up in, a aunt and uncle lived there before us moving up the street a few blocks had a laundry shoot, basically a large duct that went from a trap door on 2nd floor down to basement. Clothes at least could go gown the shoot asap without a basket collecting.
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 06:51 PM (Ia/+0)
123
117 The walls were plaster mixed with horse hair and layered over chicken wire. Wallpaper covered the plaster. If you haven't dealt with that stuff, it is tough. You can't just break it out like drywall. Use a hammer to crack the plaster enough to get a hacksaw blade in to cut the wire and peel off sections. It is a slow, dusty process. Haven't lived in that house for over 50 years but I bet the walls are still standing solid.
Posted by: JTB at January 10, 2026 06:48 PM
***
Truth.
Posted by: JTB at January 10, 2026 06:48 PM
***
Truth.
Posted by: TRex - this old house dino at January 10, 2026 06:52 PM (IQ6Gq)
124
My brother built his house from clearing the land, pouring the foundation, putting up the walls and ceiling and all the interior work and plumbing. A friend did his electrical as a trade off. He knew how he wanted it and built it that way. It's a very distinctive sort of mid-century modern with a flat roof. There's a breezeway between the main house and the guestrooms, with a four foot walkway all around and up to an additional two room suite with a sauna that my s-i-l uses as her workout space. He did all the floors in terrazo, after teaching himself how to do it and buying a grinder and polisher, with a geometric pattern around the walls made with nickel.
It's a spectacular house that I can't do justice to with my clumsy words.
Pretty spectacular, really.
It's a spectacular house that I can't do justice to with my clumsy words.
Pretty spectacular, really.
Posted by: huerfano at January 10, 2026 06:52 PM (98kQX)
Posted by: fourseasons at January 10, 2026 06:53 PM (3ek7K)
126
84 I would have a kitchen with a few rooms attached. Kitchen with a sitting area opening onto an outdoor covered dining area.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026
-----
From the great things I've heard about her, I think that one of the rooms she would have attached to her kitchen is another kitchen.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026
-----
From the great things I've heard about her, I think that one of the rooms she would have attached to her kitchen is another kitchen.
Posted by: JM in Illinois at January 10, 2026 06:55 PM (1lTYe)
Posted by: fourseasons at January 10, 2026 06:57 PM (3ek7K)
128
Wolfus, My house faces due north and I much prefer it this way. We get much NE wind off sound and ocean and the coldest wind is from North in winter. My backyard is Much warmer than my neighbor's across street in winter. It is a cat haven and my two kitties prefer it this way.
Posted by: ENC at January 10, 2026 06:57 PM (oftw2)
Posted by: the Paolo at January 10, 2026 06:58 PM (Kt19C)
130
Rolling Stone says Bob Weir is mort.
Posted by: Dark Litigator at January 10, 2026 06:59 PM (KAi1n)
131
Does anyone know how to reach Sarah Hoyt by email? (Reading and writing fiction are hobbies.)
Posted by: Dark Litigator at January 10, 2026 06:48 PM (KAi1n)
Yeah. E-mail me at the sidebar address on the main page for ALH, and I'll ask her if it's ok to give it.
Posted by: Dark Litigator at January 10, 2026 06:48 PM (KAi1n)
Yeah. E-mail me at the sidebar address on the main page for ALH, and I'll ask her if it's ok to give it.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 06:59 PM (uQesX)
132
Once I had built our house, I wanted a big storage building. I bought a Morton building from a goofy guy that thought the treated poles were killing him. Moved it to my place with help from my best friend and added 12 feet to it. It is now pretty much filled. Still room to park a vehicle. It has some of my restored tractors in it also.
Posted by: Ronster at January 10, 2026 07:01 PM (gRFnH)
133
love terrazo.
29 years ago referred a couple to about the only guy doing terrazzo in Los Angeles. They were going to jackhammer out the original terrazzo bath of a john Lautner home. Then they stiffed the guy on his bill. Nice.
29 years ago referred a couple to about the only guy doing terrazzo in Los Angeles. They were going to jackhammer out the original terrazzo bath of a john Lautner home. Then they stiffed the guy on his bill. Nice.
Posted by: the Paolo at January 10, 2026 07:02 PM (Kt19C)
134
Ronster. How nice to see you. Hope you are well.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026 07:02 PM (sDNVV)
135
In the film,"Still Mine", a man built his home in Canada, using sound construction practices that he's learned. But he runs into "modern" Canadian regulations. Uh-oh. His determination comes into play.
A fine, sweet film about a retired man making a life for himself and for his wife who's experiencing dementia
A fine, sweet film about a retired man making a life for himself and for his wife who's experiencing dementia
Posted by: JM in Illinois at January 10, 2026 07:03 PM (Q1QZL)
Posted by: Heavy Meta at January 10, 2026 07:04 PM (GTqXr)
137
Off Paolo sock.
Posted by: Commissar of plenty and festive little hats at January 10, 2026 07:04 PM (Kt19C)
138
79 71 Now we're onto something I can relate to! I started framing houses when I was 19 years old and even charted my own company that paid taxes and all that.
in house vacuum system
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 06:17 PM
***
Thanks for jumping in. Say more words about the in house vacuum system. Is that one of those things where the plumbing is built in and you just plug your vacuum hose into a portal in each room? Why worth it?
Posted by: TRex - dusty dino at January 10, 2026 06:23 PM
-------
I grew up in a house with a central vacuum system. Carried a hose and plugged it in at various ports around the house. There was a canister in the garage where the dust collected. Empty it as needed.
It worked great. Never clogged. I wish I had one now.
79 71 Now we're onto something I can relate to! I started framing houses when I was 19 years old and even charted my own company that paid taxes and all that.
in house vacuum system
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 06:17 PM
***
Thanks for jumping in. Say more words about the in house vacuum system. Is that one of those things where the plumbing is built in and you just plug your vacuum hose into a portal in each room? Why worth it?
Posted by: TRex - dusty dino at January 10, 2026 06:23 PM
-------
I grew up in a house with a central vacuum system. Carried a hose and plugged it in at various ports around the house. There was a canister in the garage where the dust collected. Empty it as needed.
It worked great. Never clogged. I wish I had one now.
Posted by: Semi-Literate Thug at January 10, 2026 07:04 PM (azNOR)
139
Didn’t build the house, had a 20’x40’ essentially 2 story barn built and did the storage loft by myself, along with the stairs and gallery to the loft and some very heavy built in workbenches.
Fellow who did it said he could make it 50’ for a few more bucks. Didn’t figure I’d need it
Leviathan the Delta 88 Royale convertible takes up half of it…
Fellow who did it said he could make it 50’ for a few more bucks. Didn’t figure I’d need it
Leviathan the Delta 88 Royale convertible takes up half of it…
Posted by: Coelacanth at January 10, 2026 07:04 PM (x0NqF)
140
Here, folks freak out if they are without power for 3-4 days.
I paid for a Generac 22Kw unit in August of 2020. Vendor I went through had me order directly through Generac and told me to call him when it got there.
I started getting antsy when it didn't show up by November or so and I was having a hard time getting in touch with the installer so I called Generac about it. I was told Covid had them on intermittent lockdown and they assured my vendor was solid. Finally showed up on my driveway in early February 2021. I had the pad and buried conduits ready. Took them about 2-3 hours to install it.
Ice storm Uri hit four days later and took out power like a mofo.
We have 40 decibels of energy raging in the backyard and DanMa'am wants me to keep the curtains closed so the neighbors don't know we have power.
I paid for a Generac 22Kw unit in August of 2020. Vendor I went through had me order directly through Generac and told me to call him when it got there.
I started getting antsy when it didn't show up by November or so and I was having a hard time getting in touch with the installer so I called Generac about it. I was told Covid had them on intermittent lockdown and they assured my vendor was solid. Finally showed up on my driveway in early February 2021. I had the pad and buried conduits ready. Took them about 2-3 hours to install it.
Ice storm Uri hit four days later and took out power like a mofo.
We have 40 decibels of energy raging in the backyard and DanMa'am wants me to keep the curtains closed so the neighbors don't know we have power.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 07:05 PM (8uzBS)
141
Mrs. Meta and I bought the worst house in a great neighborhood. We completely remodeled/restored/reconstructed it over the next few years. A lot of trial and error. I'm a drywall savant. I still suck at all things plumbing.
Posted by: Heavy Meta at January 10, 2026 07:07 PM (GTqXr)
142
140 I paid for a Generac 22Kw unit in August of 2020.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 07:05 PM
***
Sounds like a beast. Natural gas?
We've debated what kind of back-up generator solution we need/want. Many options and approaches. Interested in other thoughts.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 07:05 PM
***
Sounds like a beast. Natural gas?
We've debated what kind of back-up generator solution we need/want. Many options and approaches. Interested in other thoughts.
Posted by: TRex - electric avenue dino at January 10, 2026 07:09 PM (IQ6Gq)
143
DanMan. Love our generator which was installed in October. It’s cranked up twice since then, once for 3 days after 80+ mile/hr winds.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at January 10, 2026 07:10 PM (2NHgQ)
144
And any time I have any work done, coffee and donuts await the guys in the morning and pizza or subs show up for lunch
Posted by: Coelacanth at January 10, 2026 07:10 PM (EABvN)
145
>142 140 I paid for a Generac 22Kw unit in August of 2020.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 07:05 PM
***
Sounds like a beast. Natural gas?
We've debated what kind of back-up generator solution we need/want. Many options and approaches. Interested in other thoughts.
Posted by: TRex - electric avenue dino at January 10, 2026 07:09 PM (IQ6Gq)
We installed a 22W Generac last year. Natural gas. After a half a dozen or so outages, Mrs Meta has declared its worth every penny.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 07:05 PM
***
Sounds like a beast. Natural gas?
We've debated what kind of back-up generator solution we need/want. Many options and approaches. Interested in other thoughts.
Posted by: TRex - electric avenue dino at January 10, 2026 07:09 PM (IQ6Gq)
We installed a 22W Generac last year. Natural gas. After a half a dozen or so outages, Mrs Meta has declared its worth every penny.
Posted by: Heavy Meta at January 10, 2026 07:11 PM (GTqXr)
146
DL, I'll pass it on and see what she says. I know she hasn't been feeling well lately, so it could be a while.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at January 10, 2026 07:12 PM (uQesX)
147
Yes natural gas. 22Kw is probably too much. I was running two pool pumps AND central electric heat with no issues. As soon as my HVAC needs replacing I'll go with gas heat and could probably get by with 18Kw or less.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 07:12 PM (8uzBS)
148
Excellent subject! I look forward to reading thru the comments.
When my parents retired for good they had a house built about 100 miles north of where I grew up along the Florida coast. My mom's niece, who was very close in age to my mother and was like a younger sister to her, liked the area so much she and her husband decided to move there too. Then the niece wanted her mother, my mom's oldest sister, to move there too. My aunt resisted saying she liked her house very much and didn't want to move. Since the niece's husband had built every house they had lived in, including the new Florida one, he and my newly retired dad went over to my aunt's house, measured it all out, and the two of them built a replica with a few mods for my aunt, on an adjoining lot to the niece where she lived until she was too old to live on her own.
When my parents retired for good they had a house built about 100 miles north of where I grew up along the Florida coast. My mom's niece, who was very close in age to my mother and was like a younger sister to her, liked the area so much she and her husband decided to move there too. Then the niece wanted her mother, my mom's oldest sister, to move there too. My aunt resisted saying she liked her house very much and didn't want to move. Since the niece's husband had built every house they had lived in, including the new Florida one, he and my newly retired dad went over to my aunt's house, measured it all out, and the two of them built a replica with a few mods for my aunt, on an adjoining lot to the niece where she lived until she was too old to live on her own.
Posted by: Anonymous Rogue in Kalifornistan (ARiK) at January 10, 2026 07:13 PM (QGaXH)
Posted by: Aetius451AD work phone at January 10, 2026 07:15 PM (zZu0s)
150
148 he and my newly retired dad went over to my aunt's house, measured it all out, and the two of them built a replica with a few mods for my aunt, on an adjoining lot
Posted by: Anonymous Rogue in Kalifornistan (ARiK) at January 10, 2026 07:13 PM
***
Wow. Labor of love.
Posted by: Anonymous Rogue in Kalifornistan (ARiK) at January 10, 2026 07:13 PM
***
Wow. Labor of love.
Posted by: TRex - replica dino at January 10, 2026 07:15 PM (IQ6Gq)
151
Floors I would do flagstone.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026 07:16 PM (sDNVV)
152
In 2005 I built a 2 story, 20 x 36 post frame garage with a gambrel roof. That was before youtube so I learned how to do it the old-fashioned way by reading several books on 'pole barn' construction.
Do a search for NDSU building plans for free 'pole barn' plans.
It wasn't all that difficult and it's still serving us today. But my most valuable lesson was this: Just because someone has a business card that says they do 'Concrete Work' doesn't mean they can actually do concrete work!
Do a search for NDSU building plans for free 'pole barn' plans.
It wasn't all that difficult and it's still serving us today. But my most valuable lesson was this: Just because someone has a business card that says they do 'Concrete Work' doesn't mean they can actually do concrete work!
Posted by: 44_Spl at January 10, 2026 07:17 PM (x5wO2)
153
I bought a house with a garage apartment and I'm not interested in remodeling. At all.
I think I'm doing paying for things like water heaters. I hope. I've discovered that a lot of the things in this house were done very well, and a lot were done by somebody's idiot cousin.
Like the water line for the refrigerator's icemaker. Who the hell runs water line through the air conditioner warm air return? It's open to the outside under the house (where the water comes in) and to the inside of the house (where the water goes out.) I only know about it because we had to replace the shutoff valve because it was spraying water all over the inside of the air return.
I think I'm doing paying for things like water heaters. I hope. I've discovered that a lot of the things in this house were done very well, and a lot were done by somebody's idiot cousin.
Like the water line for the refrigerator's icemaker. Who the hell runs water line through the air conditioner warm air return? It's open to the outside under the house (where the water comes in) and to the inside of the house (where the water goes out.) I only know about it because we had to replace the shutoff valve because it was spraying water all over the inside of the air return.
Posted by: Cybersmythe at January 10, 2026 07:18 PM (VmDLh)
154
I've done plumbing, heating and air, roofing, framing, concrete, flooring, brick, made trusses in a factory, mechaniced and ran most common construction equipment and a lot of uncommon stuff. I have not done wiring which is probably the only aspect of home building I haven't done.
Doing my own house is probably 3 to 5 years out.
The wife will probably make me use a contractor.
Doing my own house is probably 3 to 5 years out.
The wife will probably make me use a contractor.
Posted by: Reforger at January 10, 2026 07:18 PM (v8m2L)
155
DanMan!
Good on y’all! I have a wood burning fireplace and camping gear to heat water and cook. I have battery operated lanterns and lots of candles.
I’d love to have access to a remote place where I could be out of range for weeks at a time. As long as I’m warm and dry and can make a hot meal, I’m good.
Good on y’all! I have a wood burning fireplace and camping gear to heat water and cook. I have battery operated lanterns and lots of candles.
I’d love to have access to a remote place where I could be out of range for weeks at a time. As long as I’m warm and dry and can make a hot meal, I’m good.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 10, 2026 07:21 PM (3fE+V)
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 10, 2026 07:23 PM (3fE+V)
157
Time to say thank you and good night before the next act takes the Ace of Spades thread. The thread will stay open for the evening for latecomers, so jump in if you have input.
Don't forget to stop by Club ONT later for overnight hi-jinx.
Don't forget to stop by Club ONT later for overnight hi-jinx.
Posted by: TRex, the tool time dino at January 10, 2026 07:23 PM (IQ6Gq)
158
Santa brought me a new driver.
Then a new putter.
I just scored a new sand wedge and new shoes.
Only 65 more days until Geezer Golf!
Then a new putter.
I just scored a new sand wedge and new shoes.
Only 65 more days until Geezer Golf!
Posted by: Diogenes at January 10, 2026 07:24 PM (2WIwB)
159
Another interesting Hobby Thread
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 07:25 PM (Ia/+0)
160
I paid for a Generac 22Kw unit in August of 2020. Vendor I went through had me order directly through Generac and told me to call him when it got there.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 07:05 PM
I just had one of those put in early December. I don't know if I'll get much use out of it because I'm literally a quarter mile from the Centerpoint's power management center for the county, but we'll see.
Everyone I run into tells me that they'd never spend that much on a home generator, so I'm now doubting the wisdom of my purchase.
Posted by: DanMan at January 10, 2026 07:05 PM
I just had one of those put in early December. I don't know if I'll get much use out of it because I'm literally a quarter mile from the Centerpoint's power management center for the county, but we'll see.
Everyone I run into tells me that they'd never spend that much on a home generator, so I'm now doubting the wisdom of my purchase.
Posted by: Cybersmythe at January 10, 2026 07:26 PM (VmDLh)
161
Diogenes, that doesn't sound like you are pressing towards Texas.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 10, 2026 07:27 PM (sDNVV)
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 10, 2026 07:27 PM (3fE+V)
163
I analyzed my logs and have determined that in the six years since I returned to the ham radio hobby, I have spent 2113 hours sitting operating HF. I need a comfier chair now.
Posted by: gp at January 10, 2026 07:29 PM (GHIyr)
164
Does anyone know how to reach Sarah Hoyt by email? (Reading and writing fiction are hobbies.)
Posted by: Dark Litigator at January 10, 2026 06:48 PM (KAi1n)
Maybe go to her site:
https://accordingtohoyt.com
and post a note asking her for a means to communicate. I know she has listed a snail mail P.O. Box address before but can’t see it currently at her site.
Posted by: Dark Litigator at January 10, 2026 06:48 PM (KAi1n)
Maybe go to her site:
https://accordingtohoyt.com
and post a note asking her for a means to communicate. I know she has listed a snail mail P.O. Box address before but can’t see it currently at her site.
Posted by: NemoMeImpuneLacessit at January 10, 2026 07:29 PM (gqKkr)
165
Hi Ben Had. Good to see you also. Hope everything is going great for you.
Posted by: Ronster at January 10, 2026 07:31 PM (gRFnH)
166
nood
Posted by: gp at January 10, 2026 07:31 PM (GHIyr)
167
WE HAZ A MOVIE MARQUE
Posted by: Skip at January 10, 2026 07:31 PM (Ia/+0)
168
"I'm now doubting the wisdom of my purchase.
Posted by: Cybersmythe"
You won't the day you need it.
I don't have a whole house generator but have 5 or so gensets around here for a total capacity of about 18kw as long as we have gasoline. I'd be down to about 3kw max on solar on a good day.
Posted by: Cybersmythe"
You won't the day you need it.
I don't have a whole house generator but have 5 or so gensets around here for a total capacity of about 18kw as long as we have gasoline. I'd be down to about 3kw max on solar on a good day.
Posted by: fd at January 10, 2026 07:33 PM (vFG9F)
169
My dream home--which has to wait until I'm 59 1/2 (401ks)--is (if I can afford to build it) going to be something *extremely* low-maintenance/high-efficiency. I don't want to have to spend my retirement constantly fixing and/or paying for things. Big enough and ADA-compliant enough to give my parents a "wing".
I'm thinking Monolithic Dome(s), ICF, or *maybe* 3D-printed conglomerate if the tech has matured by then. In-floor radiant heating from a duel-fuel (wood/propane) boiler in an oversized utility room. A/C, dunno, HVAC or just a half-dozen heat pumps scattered throughout? Does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions? Environment is central Texas, so it freezes and fries, sometimes on the same day.
I'm thinking Monolithic Dome(s), ICF, or *maybe* 3D-printed conglomerate if the tech has matured by then. In-floor radiant heating from a duel-fuel (wood/propane) boiler in an oversized utility room. A/C, dunno, HVAC or just a half-dozen heat pumps scattered throughout? Does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions? Environment is central Texas, so it freezes and fries, sometimes on the same day.
Posted by: Big D at January 10, 2026 07:39 PM (6xxny)
170
Big D. ICF with an ERV. Constant air movement. We have the smallest air conditioner you can buy.
Posted by: MkY at January 10, 2026 08:07 PM (q6tQZ)
171
I... actually hadn't heard of ERVs. I knew I had to have some kind of air exchanger with a dome (the mfr. insists, because it's so airtight you'll suffocate yourself without one), but I didn't know you could get one with a heat exchanger attached. That makes tons of sense for *any* design.
Did you build your ICF yourself, or have contractors do it? You can probably guess that I'd lean towards the latter... And, what do you do for heat? Is it just built into the A/C?
Did you build your ICF yourself, or have contractors do it? You can probably guess that I'd lean towards the latter... And, what do you do for heat? Is it just built into the A/C?
Posted by: Big D at January 10, 2026 08:15 PM (IUAH1)
172
Things I've learned building my parents' house (so far):
If you have to cut out the plastic bracing inside Insulated concrete forms for any reason, make sure they're braced from the outside.
If you've designed things for a layer of gravel under your foundation to let water flow through, gravel the entire excavated pit, not just where the footings will go. This will allow you to use the extra concrete from pouring your foundation wall as a rat slab, which will also save you from having to put down some other kind of vapor barrier in your crawl space.
There's an additive that you can purchase that hypothetically makes concrete both water proof and self healing. This should save you from having to put water barriers on the outside of your foundation wall.
If you have to cut out the plastic bracing inside Insulated concrete forms for any reason, make sure they're braced from the outside.
If you've designed things for a layer of gravel under your foundation to let water flow through, gravel the entire excavated pit, not just where the footings will go. This will allow you to use the extra concrete from pouring your foundation wall as a rat slab, which will also save you from having to put down some other kind of vapor barrier in your crawl space.
There's an additive that you can purchase that hypothetically makes concrete both water proof and self healing. This should save you from having to put water barriers on the outside of your foundation wall.
Posted by: FeatherBlade at January 10, 2026 08:28 PM (C0Nlv)
173
I am sorry that I missed this thread. TRex and Grateful, I would advise you to plan your master bathroom as if you are disabled already, put in a nice big shower with plenty of grab bars and a pull down seat, it will come in handy when you need it.
Posted by: Debby Doberman Schultz at January 10, 2026 08:28 PM (0nHVk)
174
So very late but I'm busy. Had to stop working on radios. Ran out of parts.
More on order, but still.
More on order, but still.
Posted by: Blanco Basura - Z28.310 at January 10, 2026 09:51 PM (lUFok)
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Media-Approved Facts About the Democrat Spy
Changes to Make Christianity More "Inclusive"
Secret John Kerry Senatorial Accomplishments
John Edwards Campaign Excuses
John Kerry Pick-Up Lines
Changes Liberal Senator George Michell Will Make at Disney
Torments in Dog-Hell
Greatest Hitjobs
The Ace of Spades HQ Sex-for-Money Skankathon
A D&D Guide to the Democratic Candidates
Margaret Cho: Just Not Funny
More Margaret Cho Abuse
Margaret Cho: Still Not Funny
Iraqi Prisoner Claims He Was Raped... By Woman
Wonkette Announces "Morning Zoo" Format
John Kerry's "Plan" Causes Surrender of Moqtada al-Sadr's Militia
World Muslim Leaders Apologize for Nick Berg's Beheading
Michael Moore Goes on Lunchtime Manhattan Death-Spree
Milestone: Oliver Willis Posts 400th "Fake News Article" Referencing Britney Spears
Liberal Economists Rue a "New Decade of Greed"
Artificial Insouciance: Maureen Dowd's Word Processor Revolts Against Her Numbing Imbecility
Intelligence Officials Eye Blogs for Tips
They Done Found Us Out, Cletus: Intrepid Internet Detective Figures Out Our Master Plan
Shock: Josh Marshall Almost Mentions Sarin Discovery in Iraq
Leather-Clad Biker Freaks Terrorize Australian Town
When Clinton Was President, Torture Was Cool
What Wonkette Means When She Explains What Tina Brown Means
Wonkette's Stand-Up Act
Wankette HQ Gay-Rumors Du Jour
Here's What's Bugging Me: Goose and Slider
My Own Micah Wright Style Confession of Dishonesty
Outraged "Conservatives" React to the FMA
An On-Line Impression of Dennis Miller Having Sex with a Kodiak Bear
The Story the Rightwing Media Refuses to Report!
Our Lunch with David "Glengarry Glen Ross" Mamet
The House of Love: Paul Krugman
A Michael Moore Mystery (TM)
The Dowd-O-Matic!
Liberal Consistency and Other Myths
Kepler's Laws of Liberal Media Bias
John Kerry-- The Splunge! Candidate
"Divisive" Politics & "Attacks on Patriotism" (very long)
The Donkey ("The Raven" parody)
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