FLOOR OPTIONS -- DIRT/PLASTIC/CARPET
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Dirt inside can be kept 4 to 6 inches above grade and converted into a floor of some sort. One of my favorites uses redwood 2x4s buried on edge around a room's perimeter. Using these to define "level" the dirt is leveled and compacted in place. A layer of black plastic is put down (stapled to the 2x4s) and then a layer of carpet (preferably used) is stretched over the plastic = instant floor and noone will ever know they're walking on dirt IF you don't tell them. (Thanks to Mike Oehler of "$50 and Up Underground House" for this idea.)
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Another advanatge of the carpet-plastic-dirt floor is it's easy to run new wiring circuits or new plumbing lines -- pull the carpet and plastic back and start digging! When done, backfill and tamp smooth and REinstall the plastic and carpet = no damage, no waste. One can even get "direct-bury" Romex (gray outer sheath) that can be laid all by itself and buried. If rodents are a problem in your area, though, better to fish it inside of plastic pipe to protect it from sharp vermin teeth. Small trees and plants can be planted right IN the floor -- how's THAT for "alternative?"
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sail4free
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