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I wondering what the general rule of thumb is when building a larger single story or just a two story home. Our Habitat affiliate builds slab foundations, so there is a savings in concrete and trusses if we go up. But then there is additional beams etc when going up. Which option is usually more cost effective?
Peace,
Martin
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As a rule go up is cheaper. But if what you meant by slabs was a poured concrete slab alone as a foundation, then you must check with your inspector. Here in PA you cant put more than 1 story in this manner. Good Luck Ron
*Going up is also more energy efficient. Look at traditional architecture in New England or the Midwest. To a large extent, heating the first floor heats the second floor for free. By approaching a cube in shape, you minimize the exterior area which costs both in heat loss and in capital cost (sheathing, siding, insulation). It also gives you more yard on a small lot. Since you are trying to provide decent housing but probably have lots that are smaller than an acre or two, not having to build right to the setbacks will look better and be more livable. But really hard to make handicap accessible, at least in the current paradigm in which accessible means for the benefit of former drunk drivers and others with spinal cord injuries. Obviously, the deaf, blind, non-native speakers, short people, etc can handle stairs just fine. -David
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I wondering what the general rule of thumb is when building a larger single story or just a two story home. Our Habitat affiliate builds slab foundations, so there is a savings in concrete and trusses if we go up. But then there is additional beams etc when going up. Which option is usually more cost effective?
Peace,
Martin