More and more homeowners are converting their houses into multi-generational homes for themselves, their children, and their aging parents. In this fourth project of season two of Bob Vila, a Norwell couple decides to add on to make room for their mother who wants to move closer to family and to help should she need it. The walls and floor of the addition will be built of energy-efficient Reddi-Form insulated concrete forms (ICF's). ICF's work like building blocks to make light work of foundations and walls. These forms are designed to use less concrete and still carry the load of a soaring 20-foot-gable end wall. Once the shell has been poured, a specialized framing system for the deck or interior floors of the home is set in place for the concrete pour. This high-efficiency, thermally smart home also has a solar roof to help reduce the family's utility bills and usage. Air quality is a top priority, so all steps are taken to dry the house completely and stop mold from starting once the walls are put up. A deck, beautiful windows, flooring, a fireplace faced in stone, doors, and worry-free trim complete this new home for grandmom. |