All Forum Posts by: Account Closed

@Jonathan Taylor Smith - indeed, converting existing unfinished space may be an excellent way to increase the income potential, if you get past all the bureaucratic approvals.  That said, as @Timothy McKinney wrote, as long as you have, or can create, the necessary egress.  To that I'd add that you may likely have to have a minimum ceiling height and if the property is on well and septic... can the existing well meet the demands for the increased occupancy (and likewise, can the septic)?

In DC, it's commonplace to convert basements to apartment spaces... often going as far as digging out the floor, underpinning the footings to get the needed ceiling height and cutting windows/doors to provide access and egress.

Good luck!

@Ahmed Mahmoud - when you say "start" the building process - are you talking about the design process, the permitting process or actual construction?

Even if not for your current project, you may want to reach out to, and network with this company - a 3 month backlog is a good indicator that they're a solid contractor.

And welcome Matt!

Welcome @Vincent Di salvo! 

@Aleksey Vinogradov, since you indicated that you are building a porch, are you doing a monolithic pour (i.e., slabs, walls and footings as in a single pour)?

And no, it's unlikely that you need a custom spec mixture, but a footing mixture is typically less expensive than a slab mixture (in part due to the amount of cement in the mix as well as additives such as fiber commonly used for slabs).  That said, did they price you the high-end mix or a mix that is sufficient for your needs?

@Randy E.... there are some DIY mold test kits available, but if you want assurance of the situation, have a  mold remediation professional test and provide a certification.

As for the guys who suggested that you cover the crawlspace with plastic, I agree.  Use a heavy mil plastic, overlap and tape the joints, turn the plastic up, and seal it to the walls.  The crawlspace should also be vented (and the floor insulated).

Good luck!

@Account Closed wrote, an approved, stamped plan (that hasn't expired) is a good indicator. But again, around here, we have to have an approved site plan/permit and an approved building plan/permit before we can actually start construction (although occasionally we do get permission to start excavation ahead of the building permit).

Good luck!

@Edward Thornton and @Ethel Weaver - might want to consider contacting your local Builder's Association and/or Chamber of Commerce for some names.  As well, stop in to the local lumber yard and speak to the sales manager... they're usually more than happy to share the names of their customers!

Good luck!

@Aleksey Vinogradov - at least in my area, ready-mix companies usually only supply the product... you'll still need a contractor to place the material, unless you're doing it yourself. Additionally, the price point is likely higher given the small quantity requested, especially if it's not a full load.

Not all concrete is created equal.  What's the project and what are specifications of the concrete needed? Are you pouring footings or a patio? The mixture needed to meet the specifications have a lot to do with the price.  What mix/forumla (and did they include additives) did the suppliers quote you?

If bagged concrete meets your needs - have you considered going that route and just renting a portable mixer?

Good luck!