u/Time_Arugula_1544

How difficult is it to GC your own home build if you have a lot of time?

I am planning an ICF build on my existing property. I am retired and have a lot of free time. The build is a simple 2-story ICF build with 900 sqft of living space above a 900 sqft garage/workshop.

I have already discussed the project with an ICF shell builder; however, he does not do any of the finish work. This guy would build the shell and an ICF "shed" roof. He did mention he has contractor contacts.

I have been studying the ICF building process and have learned a lot. I need to learn more about the building timeline and when to schedule contractors. Is there some sort of building guide I can purchase that would help educate me?

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u/Time_Arugula_1544 — 1 day ago

Odd "road rage" today. It's as if the guy was looking for a confrontation.

I did absolutely nothing to provoke this; I suspect one day this guy is going to mess with the wrong person.

I was on a rural four-lane road with a 55mph speed limit with no other traffic on it. I was approaching a car going about 40mph. I switch to the passing lane at least 8 car lengths behind the guy using my signal. After I passed, I left about 7-8 car lengths before returning to the travel lane again, using my signal. Textbook driving rules.

So this guy decides he needs to pass me. No big deal except he slows back down to 40mph and rides his brakes. I pass again, and he repeats. This happened four times before I arrived at the road I needed to turn onto. I wonder what would cause this guy to be such an idiot? People have been shot dead for less.

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u/Time_Arugula_1544 — 7 days ago

Ideas on design to harden an ICF home from tornado damage? (Tennessee)

I am planning an ICF home build and would like to consider ways to harden it against tornado damage. I have become very complacent regarding tornadoes and usually just go to bed despite possible tornadic activity.

My thoughts are to reduce or eliminate openings (windows and doors) on the south and southwest side of the structure. The design I am considering would require one window to the southwest to be in code compliance. Would a heavy metal roll-down shutter hold up to the winds?

I am also thinking that a flat/shed concrete roof would be beneficial, even if it costs 10k more than a wood-framed roof. I would spend that amount on a traditional tornado shelter anyway.

Any other tips or ideas to make the home more tornado survivable?

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u/Time_Arugula_1544 — 10 days ago