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Patti
Registered Users
Posts:1
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| 08/21/2008 1:19 PM |
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Hello,
My husband and I are looking at buying a existing earth home. The home is about 30 years old, we having been doing research all week on earth homes before we go through it again this Saturday. I have spoke with a building inspector and he said that he could tell us the basic but nothing about the construction being 3/4 of it is under ground.
We do plan to ask for information on the construction and if the builders are still around.
What I was wondering if there is anyone on the site that lives or owned a earth home and if they could give us info on what they would look for or questions they would be asking.
Thanks
Patti |
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cmkavala
Registered Users
Posts:818
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| 08/22/2008 3:58 PM |
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Patti
Any home that does not look mainstream ie; bermed, earth, A-frames, round, octagons are extremely limited for re-sale. With that in mind if the home still appeals to you, I would have a qualified home inspector look at the home for you for any potential moisture/mold issues. |
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Chris Kavala
chris@southernsips.com
1-877-321-SIPS |
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gregj
Registered Users
Posts:168
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| 08/22/2008 6:12 PM |
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I agree that moisture/ mold would be the major concerns. Be suspicious of fresh paint and floor coverings. Stick your nose into every corner and closet and check for a musty smell. If you have any doubts I would consider making the offer contingent on removing a small section of drywall in a couple of the most likely problem areas (exterior wall near the floor in the areas with greatest earth covering and worst outside grading and downspout areas) and inspect for mold/moisture. You would obviously have to pay for repairing the drywall but that would be a small cost for piece of mind and an even smaller cost if a problem was found.
I use think an earth bermed home was the way to go. My wife said "I'm not living underground in a cave." I see her point now. Are you sure you are ready for cave living? Even with good windows you will have less natural light and ventilation and you can get similar insulation and air infiltration reduction with other technologies that fit a conventional style of home.. |
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Mark Fleming
Registered Users
Posts:188
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| 08/22/2008 10:37 PM |
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I live in an earth bermed home, just built an earth bermed garage, and am now building an earth bermed summer home. "Earth bermed" is like "brick"or "stucco", it can mean many things. Are there construction drawings? Is it owner built (not necessarily a bad thing, in fact an OB may have more construction pictures)? Is it architect designed? Is it engineered with drawings available? Is it even permitted? Did they get a final certificate of occupancy and how many inspections were done?
Dampness is a dead give away, but find out what type of curtains drains, vapor barriers, etc. It could be the best place you've ever live. Or not.
Mark |
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