Foundation (Skids)

FOUNDATION RESOURCES:

Although there is no concrete foundation utilized in this design (as one would find in a more traditional home), for the sake of this project, the "foundation" portion of the project includes the assembly of all pressure-treated rim joists, floor joists, and 4x4 pressure-treated skids -- the only portion of the structure that will see direct contact with the ground.

How to Install a Joist Hanger (a short video that illustrates the use of the Simpson StrongTie LUS26 and LUS 26-2 joist hangers used in the floor framing.

Leveling Skids

Cut the 4x4 skids to 15' long.
Place the skids to allow enough room for the construction of the walls and siding. Once the skids are levelled, you do not want to move the skids.
Use the laser level and shims (to insure the two skids are level to the world as well as one another.
Place a note near the levelled skids asking people not to move them.

Joists

Note: use a speed square when marking and do NOT trust the laser on the chop saw when cutting boards to length.

Cut 11 pieces of pressure treated wood to 7' 9" long using the chop saw. (floor joists)

Cut 2 pieces of pressure treated wood to 15' long using the chop saw. (rim joists)

On the rim joists mark with a pencil and a speed square the location of the floor joists according to the plans. Make sure to put an "X" on the side of the line that the joist is to land on to ensure the joist is on the correct side of the marking.

Attach the rim joists to the floor joists using framing nails and the nail gun. Get the giant bar clamp from the metals shop if necessary. Make sure the floor joists are level with the rim joists and lined up with the marks. This is the foundation of the house, pay attention to details.

Hangers

Hang all joists using either the LUS26 or LUS26-2 using the palm nailer and the 10D (longer ones) and the Teco (shorter ones) nails. Watch the video at the top of this page about installing hangers. Its short and helpful.

Attach the corner brace on the corners with the palm nailer and Teco nails.

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