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Foundations





 One of the things I really want is a big, open garage. We planned it all out in the drawings but recently we heard back from the structural engineer that they will have to put a post/column in the middle of the garage. We talked with our builder about what could be done. She asked about a bigger truss but the truss guy says that they can't build a bigger truss. 

We decided to pay the engineer to do the math and see if a large steel beam could be used because according to our builder she doesn't expect the beam to add that much cost, if its possible. 

The engineer is currently working on seeing if its possible. If it is possible they will likely have to make the footings bigger and that would add concrete cost but overall the cost can't be predicted until the engineer updates his plans. Once the plans are updated our builder can let us know about costs and at that point we can decide if the increase cost is worth it or not. 

I feel that paying an engineer a little more upfront to make sure we get the information we need to make the decisions is worth it rather than just saying "it would be expensive" and not getting what we really want. If the engineer says its not possible or if it is possible but super expensive then at least we know and can make the decision from there. 

There are so many details along the way and we haven't even dug a hole in the ground yet. If you're doing this keep your eyes open and ask questions.

I have to say, my best friend from high school and college has his degree in construction management and already he has been a great resource to bounce ideas and questions off of so I don't sound like an idiot when I talk to our builder. Thanks Brad!

For now, more waiting...

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