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Why dont Florida homes have a basement?

Florida has a large aquifer system that spans around 100,000 square miles and provides water for many large cities. The groundwater's very close to the surface in most parts of Florida and Southern Georgia. Because of the high water table and proximity to the ocean, it is impossible to dig out for a basement.

What is a permanent foundation for a shed?
What is a permanent foundation for a shed?

A “permanent foundation” is the kind that can not be removed or dismantled easily. It's usually a concrete slab or concrete piers. However,...

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How big is a 200 square-foot shed?
How big is a 200 square-foot shed?

Built for the backyard enthusiast, a 10×20 200 sq ft shed is the perfect size for storing all of your lawn and garden equipment. It's also big...

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Basements are a great way to add cheap square footage to a home. It is a whole other house, under your house, that can be used for anything. Sure, you might have enjoyed the extra room from a basement up north, but when you come down to Florida, something is missing. There aren't many basements in Florida, and there is a solid reason for it Newcomers to Florida are often surprised when they are told their new home will not have a basement. Modern houses are built small, directly on top of concrete slabs, with no basement. This often presents a storage problem. Whereas our friends up north enjoy the extra room for storage or use the area as a second living room or game room, there is no such space in homes in Florida. Where will they store their stuff? Usually, most people move to Florida to retire, so they downsize. They sell, give away, or put their belongings in storage long before moving into their new home in sunny Florida. The Sunshine State is filled with waterways in every direction. It is known for its many rivers, lakes, and never-ending swamps. Florida has a large aquifer system that spans around 100,000 square miles and provides water for many large cities. The groundwater's very close to the surface in most parts of Florida and Southern Georgia. Because of the high water table and proximity to the ocean, it is impossible to dig out for a basement. The construction crew would immediately encounter flooding should they try to dig more than 10 feet down. It is technically possible to build a basement in some parts of Florida. In Central Florida, such as in Clermont, there is hilly terrain that spans for many miles. Basements can be built into the side of a hill and be partially underground and partially above ground. So does this mean just because you move to Florida, you have to give up your man cave or second living room? It has become a popular trend to build large lofts on the second floor of many homes. Many attics are just as significant as basements with a wet bar and enough open space for a couch and pool table. The plus side is since it is on the second floor, it gets plenty of natural light, unlike basements that are traditionally dark and musty. If you would like to add some extra space to your homes, such as a loft or extra room, RJ Builders can help! Contact us today to get started.

How thick should plywood be for a shed roof?
How thick should plywood be for a shed roof?

Plywood thicknesses for roofs start at 3/8” in areas with light load requirements on rafters at 16” centers. Thicknesses of 1/2 to 5/8 inch are...

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How to build a damp free shed?
How to build a damp free shed?

How to damp-proof your shed Shed maintenance and repairs – take care of your shed roof, windows, walls and doors. Install sufficient insulation in...

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Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

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Who is the happiest man in America?

Alvin Wong He runs his own health care management business and earns more than $120,000 a year. Turns out, Alvin Wong is indeed a happy guy. And he's had a moment of celebrity following the article. This week, the Honolulu paper published a video of Wong, talking about the "dubious honor" of being the happiest man in America.

The Happiest Man In America

...a tall, Asian-American, observant Jew who is at least 65 and married, has children, lives in Hawaii, runs his own business and has a household income of more than $120,000 a year. With the help of a synagogue in Hawaii, the Times reporter managed to find a guy who fit the bill: Meet Alvin Wong. He is a 5-foot-10, 69-year-old, Chinese-American, Kosher-observing Jew, who's married with children and lives in Honolulu. He runs his own health care management business and earns more than $120,000 a year. Turns out, Alvin Wong is indeed a happy guy. And he's had a moment of celebrity following the article. This week, the Honolulu paper published a video of Wong, talking about the "dubious honor" of being the happiest man in America.

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For more on money and happiness: Listen to yesterday's podcast, "Money Buys Happiness"

Hat tip: Planet Money listener David C.

Is insulating a pole barn worth it?
Is insulating a pole barn worth it?

Spray foam is a great option for the pole barn ceiling as well as it provides a complete air seal of the structure. Insulating the pole barn with...

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What should I look for in a potting shed?
What should I look for in a potting shed?

So to learn about everything, you need to create your own and let's start with the first one. A Potting Table. One of the top lists of necessities...

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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How to make a storage shed climate controlled?
How to make a storage shed climate controlled?

Here are some HVAC options for your shed. The cheapest air conditioning solution is a window unit. They are inexpensive and will do the job in such...

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Can you lay concrete on dirt?
Can you lay concrete on dirt?

Long story short, yes you can pour concrete over dirt. Jul 1, 2020

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