Welcome to our latest series, The Solo Barndo Build. We're excited to share the journey of building a 40x64 barndominium that we've named "The Cedar." This project is for a friend and features two bedrooms with a loft. Throughout this series, we'll cover the time it takes to complete various tasks and provide insights on how long it takes for someone with occasional help to build a structure of this size.
Episode 1: Frost Protection
In this episode, we're focusing on frost protection—a crucial step for anyone using a pier foundation system. Our piers will extend below the frost line, and we need to protect our interior slab from frost. To achieve this, we'll dig down and place 2-inch insulation in the ground. The insulation we're using is Hits Halter insulation, known for its excellent qualities. We'll include a link in the description to a video that details the benefits of Hits Halter insulation. Let's dive into the process.
Marking Location
One helpful tip: use orange paint to mark a line along the area you're digging. This ensures you stay on a straight path while excavating.
Digging
For those in regions requiring frost protection, we dig 2 feet down along the inside of the grade board into the ground. This prevents frost from reaching under the slab and helps maintain ground temperature. Even if you don't use radiant in-floor heating, this step is essential in frost-prone areas. The required depth depends on your location; here, we go two feet down.
Even in milder climates, I recommend insulating between the slab and exterior. Concrete, while great for hydronic heating, can also transfer cold and heat if unprotected.
I've tried various methods: hand digging after framing, using an excavator after framing, and, as in this project, using a mini excavator before framing. Pre-digging with a mini excavator (a U7) is the easiest method. It prevents obstructions and makes the process smoother. I use a 1-foot wide bucket and need to dig 13-14 inches down to reach 2 feet below grade. Always check local codes for specific depth requirements.
I completed the digging for the 64x40 area by myself in about three hours, starting around 10:30 AM and finishing by 1:30 PM, including some other small tasks. The mini excavator rental cost $195, and I hardly had to use a shovel. For those tackling frost protection, this video should be a helpful guide. The best time to do this is before you start building.
Closing Thoughts
That's a wrap on this step of installing frost protection. I hope you found this post useful and enjoyable. If you're interested in designing your own building or this particular one, visit [Back Forty Buildings](http://backfortybuildings.com). We offer custom plans and stock plans. For self-builders, check out our Patreon group, a supportive community where you can get advice and participate in live Q&A sessions.
Thank you for watching. If you haven't already, subscribe to our YouTube, share this with your friends, and we'll see you in the next post.
Thank you,
MR Post Frame
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