Let the real construction begin!

Year two was when the real construction started. We had local contractors get us dug in and do the foundation. The foundation was something we wavered a lot on whether to do ourselves or have a contractor help. We originally planned on block CMU foundation but later decided to use ICF. The ICF (insulated concrete foundation) bids came in 5k higher than the standard block foundations, but don't require additional insulation or furring out of the interior. After weighing the costs and time to fur out block, ICF was a no brainer. I should note that this was 2022 and the height of covid and building materials costs. A 2x4-8' stud was selling for $9 each. We decided the right combination of time and cost was having a contractor do the foundation, but we'd do the waterproofing, drainage, and backfill.

We used a stick-on membrane for the waterproofing and typical drain tile with 3/4" rock wrapped in landscape fabric on the outside of the foundation. Inside we decided to install a sump basket and additional drain tile for further drainage and radon mitigation in case we ever wanted it. This was a major overkill for us in sandy soils but drain tile and fabric is cheap and now's the time to do it.

When site planning, your foundations drain tile, and waterproofing should be the last defense to moisture infiltration. 99% of foundation water problems are due to poor site planning and drainage. When selecting a building area consider the land's natural elevations. You'll be chasing water problems forever if you're trying to build in a low area. When possible, choose your lots highest elevation and away from steep slopes for your footprint.