Introduction
Welcome back to MR Post Frame! We've been living in this house for four years, and we're still completely and utterly exhausted. This brings us to the question: is self-building worth it? In 2019, we began to build our dream, but the journey started long before you were invited to watch. We walked a path that spanned nearly two decades, experiencing times of joy, pain, and everything in between. Our lives have completely changed, and we're ready to tell you how it happened. We won't hold back our mistakes, regrets, what we wish we could change, our best decisions, and whether we'd do it again. So, let’s dive in and answer the question: is self-building worth it?
Series Intro
Before we get into the details, let's talk about our design services. At MR Post Frame, we offer stick frame, steel frame, and post frame barn medium plans on our website. We also provide full custom design services to bring your dream home to life. Additionally, we have a Patreon group for self-builders and general contractors, where you can ask questions and share your builds with a supportive community. It's definitely worth checking out if you're considering self-building your own barn medium or managing the project yourself.
Episode Intro: The Porch
Today, we’re focusing on one of the most popular features of a barn medium: the porch. Almost every single one of our designs includes some sort of porch space, and many clients want as much porch space as possible for that indoor-outdoor living feel. A porch adds a lot of dimension and character to your structure. Let’s discuss the porch on our house and its importance.
Design and Material Choices
Back in December 2019, we published our first porch video. I remember working on the metal roof in my bare feet because it was so cold that my shoes wouldn't get any traction. This was before I had Cougar Paws, which I highly recommend for any build involving a metal roof. They make a huge difference, even for a single build.
Challenges and Solutions
One of the old comments on the video mentioned enjoying a sunrise from the porch. However, our porch is oriented west, so we get the afternoon sun, which we prefer. Designing our house on a hill meant making decisions based on the available flat space, and we like the setup we have. Having a porch on multiple sides of your house can provide flexibility depending on the weather.
Construction Details
The porch on our house is a post and beam porch, meaning it uses rough-cut timber beams. This method is more expensive but adds a beautiful, exposed beam look. For those considering this option, remember that there’s a difference between post and beam construction and post frame construction.
During construction, I had to adjust the house wrap and install headers at the right height for the porch. Using true 6x6 cedar posts, I had to plane them to fit the brackets. Nowadays, I prefer using Douglas fir posts, which can be custom cut and are more durable.
Brackets and Beams
For the brackets, I suggest getting them powder-coated for durability and aesthetic appeal. Simpson Strong-Tie offers a range of brackets, including hidden fasteners if you prefer a cleaner look.
Calculations and Span
Understanding the Pythagorean theorem is crucial for construction, but using a construction calculator simplifies the process. For spans, a 6x6 beam can typically handle an 8-foot span. For larger spans, you’ll need bigger beams or double headers. Aligning posts with window placements is essential to avoid obstructing views.
Additional Features
We added a small A-frame above the front door to add character. This design choice requires careful planning for flashing and metal work. It’s a simple but effective way to enhance the house’s appearance.
Reflections and Improvements
Looking back, there are things we’d do differently. For instance, we’d choose Douglas fir over cedar for the posts due to its durability and better performance. Also, incorporating more efficient building techniques and tools over time has made a significant difference in the quality and speed of our builds.
Conclusion
Self-building is a demanding but rewarding journey. From designing and planning to overcoming construction challenges, it requires dedication and a willingness to learn. For those considering it, the sense of accomplishment and the custom home you create make it worthwhile. If you're thinking about embarking on your self-build journey, we hope our experiences and tips help guide you through the process.
Stay tuned for more detailed step-by-step videos and insights into our building process. Thank you for following along on our journey!
Thank you,
MR Post Frame
Patreon Group:
Interested in tackling your build on your own? If you want to explore the possibility of being your GC or self-building, our Patreon membership is for you! It's a community of like-minded people offering support, discounts, Q/A, and more.