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      07-28-2021, 02:38 PM   #129
hybrid_eg
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 2000cs View Post
Late to the thread but a few thoughts:

1. Whatever a contractor promises in terms of time, change to the next unit up. If he says 4 days, it will be 4 weeks.

2. Contractors that pay their subs fast and well get the best subs and get the work done promptly.

3. Geothermal is great and can be zoned (we had two systems, two wells). It is quiet and efficient. But it must be done properly because a leak in the well is very expensive (especially if the well is below the house). The Geo units are expensive and while they are pretty reliable, they can be expensive to repair (parts). You will likely not get a dime of resale value out of the system, so the economics have to work for your expected ownership.

4. In the country, seal ALL openings into the house properly, including sills/framing. Use steel wool and caulk - this is the only way I’ve found to prevent mice, snakes and other visitors. This is easiest and cheapest when framed but before interior and exterior coverings.

5. Backup generator if all electric, but it is better (IMO) to get a wood stove with a flat top (Vermont Castings, for example) that you can cook soup on if needed. I’d rather have two fuel sources (electric and wood, or electric and nat gas).

6. Wire for electric vehicle chargers in the garage for each space. 220v with 40amps or more. At least run the conduit and be sure you have panel capacity (maybe a sub panel already in the garage).

7. Consider prep for solar roof-top. Conduit from the attic to the panel area, for example. Build the roof to handle a little extra weight.

8. If you can get wi-if to the site, set up some cameras so you can keep an eye on things when you can’t get there. If not, get some inexpensive trail cams and hang them where they can watch the site.

9. Building is fun, but full of challenges and spouse debates. Have a light heart and huge wallet.

Home owner needs to understand final finishes in the planning stage very clearly and determine up front exactly what they want to ensure that bid is as accurate as possible.. ask contractor who handles the bids to call out all items in detail. i.e. typically LED is required lighting these days to meet code so you dont want to just have it itemized as 4" or 6" LED ceiling lights etc, ask for actual brand.. there are cheap, medium and high end brands out there.. know exactly what you're getting and paying for... same goes with everything else all the way from rough to finish trim. Good Luck!


If one is working with Architect/Contractor and they are telling $X/sqft for building cost.. you want a complete breakdown of that cost..because in order for them to come up with that number they know exactly what materials they have in mind.. make sure these materials are what you envisioned..i.e. if you're happy with Vinyl or Fiberglass windows, great! Just make sure your expectation is not designer aluminum clad when time comes to make a final selection as your original estimate will likely spiral out of control especially if you end up feeling like that about multiple finishes.. my recommendation before even getting into design go and educate yourself on finishes, go to different stores and see finishes in person.. you don't need the contractor or architect to do that for you.. remember; anything additional they do is only going to cost you money when in fact you could do quite a bit yourself thus saving money.. everyone in construction likes to make it sounds as if its rocket science, its not.. cut the middleman wherever you can.
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Last edited by hybrid_eg; 07-28-2021 at 02:56 PM..
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