Everybody, I'd love to hear some of the "extras" that you did to give us some ideas. Things like running the gas line to the back porch grill just make sense but I would never have thought of that on my own.
Obed
OBED, here are a few of my suggestions, some are repeats. First though I want to tell you what a great job you are doing and for sharing it with us here at TBN. I personally really enjoy reading this thread and for all the photos and updates that you are providing.
1) Try to take as many photos as possible of your property, especially underground utilities. I took photos at my house and drew a map (with measurements) showing where the electric, t/p lines, etc. are located. When my electric and plumbing was completed in the house (just prior to inspection before it was covered up) I took a video camera and went from room to room and video taped every wire, outlet, switch, and overhead light receptacle. I also showed where every hot and cold water line was, including vents and drain lines. Sounds kind of **** but when I had to add a line for internet service I was able to see the studs and knew exactly where I could cut into the wall without damaging anything.
2) Already mentioned blocking at corners of windows for future curtains. I also cut out in the master bath a recess cabinet opening for a medicine cabinet. We never did use this but it was there if we had wanted it.
3) Because you are back in the woods I don't know what Christmas decorations/lights you might install on the outside. If you decide to install candles on the window sills I would put an outlet under each front window and have the outlet wired so that half of the outlet is turned on with a switch. This way you could put a timer on the front outlet switch and have the candles or lights come on at a predetermined time and go off at a predetermined time.
4) Also regarding the pvc chase from the basement to the second floor make sure it is large enough. I put in 3 separate chases, 1 is for t/p or low voltage and I only made it a 1/2" opening. Should have made it larger. Firecode might indicate they be capped on both ends to prevent a draft in case of fire.
5) If you go with central vac have an outlet in the garage.
6) VERY important. The rim joist around the perimeter of my house had insulation shoved in between the joists. But I noticed ice forming on the inside 2 X 12 when it was very cold out. Not good! I should have had the builder install 2" rigid foamboard on the inside, then insulation. What I eventually did to correct the problem was have an insulation company come out ($$) and spray foam insulation directly onto the rim joist. Problem solved. Also if any hose bibs come through the rim joist make sure this is insulated as this is an entry point for cold air. You may not have this issue where you are located. Another thing I spray foamed (using Great Stuff from Depot or Lowes) at all opening from the block work up. This not only makes the house more air tight it keeps little bugs from entering the home. You'll have plenty of the little bugs as you are located in a wooded area. Any vents from your bathroom, kitchen, etc. are entry points for bugs. I put a screen (window screen material) over the ends of my vents to prevent bugs from coming in.
7) I installed a laundry tub in the garage. It's a room roughly 4' X 4' (approximately) and I use this tub all the time. I can wash the cars in the winter, (hot and cold water), the dog, your hands, etc. The drain was extended into the basement to prevent freezing but the room is insulated and I never had a problem with freezing. If you have the space add a cheap toilet. Since your concrete is poured the toilet idea might be too late.
8) We installed a laundry room on the first floor. We have a cape cod style house with our master bath on the first floor. make the laundry room large enough for the washer dryer, a few cheap Depot or Lowes cabinets and you can put a sink in there. We also have a second frig in there for soda, beer, etc. plus additional storage.
9) We installed a commercial wall heater in our master bath. Heated floors would be better, but when we go in the bathroom we "preheat" the room. This was one of the better ideas for our home. If you can't afford a heater now, prewire the room.
10) last thing I can think of right now is to put in the best available windows and doors in that you can afford. Now only will they work properly and last for many years they will save you on energy costs. Regarding energy costs don't scrimp on insulation. You pay now or pay later.
Wishing everyone here on TBN a Merry Christmas!!!!! I do not use the phrase Happy Holidays!
