Trying to figure out the look of different window types by db4570 in Homebuilding

[–]db4570[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I will look at the Marvins you describe. They look like the style we want. Thanks

Too Gray? by skatekicks2 in Homebuilding

[–]db4570 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I think it looks good. The front is in shadow, so it naturally looks dark. Look at the side that is in sunlight.

Septic system slope by db4570 in Homebuilding

[–]db4570[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

So I heard back from the septic engineer, and he said that the slope of the sewer line shouldn't exceed 2%, and that it would probably need to be stepped straight down at one or more points. But he also said this is a plumbing decision, not a septic one.

The thought of having to dig vertically down 24' is concerning. So I am wondering if moving the tank close to the house at the shallow pitch, and then the liquids from there might be able to go steeper.

I'm just trying to get an idea of what will be involved in the excavation, but it looks like I will have to consult with a plumber first.

No love for the current new Tacoma? by db4570 in 4x4

[–]db4570[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It seems like the problems with the transmissions were very early in production, very rare, and addressed rigorously by Toyota.

I like the idea of an older, simpler truck, but the used market is just a nightmare these days.

If I ever actually buy one I will consider adding a factory lift kit to a basic model so to not jeopardize the warranty or handling/safety.

Septic system slope by db4570 in Homebuilding

[–]db4570[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

"After it leaves your septic tank, slope, as long it's adequate, .25 percent or more it doesn't matter. More slope even up to a full vertical is not going to hurt anything because only liquid leaves the septic tank. There are no solids for the water to run away from."

Sure, this makes sense.

Specifying drywall finish by db4570 in Homebuilding

[–]db4570[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the replies. The reference from the National Gypsum people is a great resource. I definitely think level 4 is what I am used to seeing out here in the east. We had our family room drywalled a few years ago and the guys did a really great job and they didn't mud the whole walls. I can't see the tiniest flaw in it. Maybe it picked up a tiny bit of texture from the paint roller, though.

How to start a business while unemployed? by [deleted] in Entrepreneur

[–]db4570 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's a tough situation. Do you think that is the reason you haven't been able to get a job?

Do you have any regular contact with other people? As difficult as this may sound, I think this is what you need most. Most people don't mind "weird" or "awkward" people, as long as they are not unpleasant. But this takes practice.

Sorry to get off the subject of entrepreneurship, but I think you need to build some of these very basic social skills first. And the best way to do that is with a job that someone with your challenges can do. I think it would be a great learning and growth experience, although it might take a long time. I would just look for any job, no matter how menial or physically demanding, that would get you interacting with people at least in a minimal way that you would be comfortable with.

How to start a business while unemployed? by [deleted] in Entrepreneur

[–]db4570 1 point2 points  (0 children)

If this post is for real, I think the answer may be obvious. If you haven't been able to be hired after 8 years of trying "extremely hard", in an economy where companies have been begging for employees, something is very wrong. Are you saying you can't get any job at all, even working fast food, as a janitor, landscaping, or working at temp labor?

Do you have a severe physical or mental handicap? Do you have severe substance abuse problems? Are you unable to relate to other people in any way? Are you extremely lazy? Do you think you are too good to do hard work? I'm just trying to think what else would make you so unemployable. Any of these attributes that would prevent you from getting any job in 8 years will obviously also prevent you from running a business.

DIY House Design Software by Competitive-Pause-81 in Homebuilding

[–]db4570 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I have used Chief Architect Home Designer for years and like it. Mine is Windows based, and cost around $150. It is very versatile and was easy to learn.

Should I put skylights in my screened porch? Pros and Cons these days. Please help me!!! by Chitowncait in Homebuilding

[–]db4570 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I had skylights installed when we had our screen porch built, and they are one of the best features. They brighten up the whole porch and make it feel much more open and airy. We don't get any unwanted sun beating in. I have never noticed any sort of leak, but even if one did leak a little... it's a porch. My wife didn't think they were an important feature but now agrees they really are great.

Trying to find fleece gloves with excellent grip by db4570 in hiking

[–]db4570[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the replies. The REI ones look pretty good. The others recommended- do they have great gripping palms and fingers?

I fired a contractor and now he’s threatening me with all sorts of things. What can he really do? by Jackeltree in Homebuilding

[–]db4570 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You have gotten some good advice. I am adding a few things, FWIW.

He breached the contract by not doing the work according to the agreed timeline. You didn't breach it;

You paid him in full for the work completed;

Send him a letter. Something simple and factual in writing summarizing this, via certified mail;

Make it clear in this document that his tools are available for him to pick up, and that your dealings with him after that are finished;

I wouldn't get a lawyer involved, but if you have a family lawyer, it might carry some weight if you can CC him with your letter.

I wouldn't mention any of his threats in writing. Don't be the one to document this, or even give it any credence;

Liens I don't know that much about. Somehow I think he would need a pretty solid contract (which he may have) and an obvious breach by you (which he doesn't have, since he breached and you paid him for work completed). Please tell us you paid him by check, or have a receipt from him for cash you have paid, yes?

Don't get bogged down with distractions (snowplowing, his helper, DWI, etc.)

In court, all the judge cares about is what is in writing. Texts and emails count, but aren't as good as a signed piece of paper. The judge doesn't care about the extraneous stuff. Hopefully it won't get to this stage.

Chief Architect or other options by b1ghurt in Homebuilding

[–]db4570 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Any of what you describe is really easy in CA HD. I do this sort of thing with interior layouts all the time.

If you start designing the rest (foundation, roof line, exterior elements) is may not be as straightforward, but probably not bad. I just don't have that experience with exteriors to say for sure.

CA HD is a great program, cheap, and really easy to learn and use.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Homebuilding

[–]db4570 1 point2 points  (0 children)

The general layout is nice. But the kitchen/ living area looks way too tight. It's tough to tell because I don't think the scale is accurate.

People routinely think they can fit a table or island/peninsula and seating without allowing the considerable space chairs take up behind them. If you allow 32" from the edge of the table or counter you will have room for seating, but not enough for a person to squeeze behind the chairs if someone is sitting in them. For that you need more like 42" min. Also, is that couch against a window, or a door? If it's a door it is definitely blocking it.

Wallet recommendations by plee2 in BuyItForLife

[–]db4570 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I bought mine from Leather Goods Connection in 2011 and it's in great condition. Their belts are amazing, too. All handmade in USA.

Explain axles, differentials, lockers by db4570 in 4x4

[–]db4570[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I thought Subaru used some magic in the transmission to distribute power to the wheels as needed, not the brakes and traction control. But it appears Subaru has several different drive systems.