What would you modify on this plan?

9 years ago

last modified: 9 years ago

Out of all the home plans I have looked at, this is the first one that I have not considered making any modifications to, with the exception of changing the foundation to slab. The staircase would need to be deleted since it orginally led to a basement. I'm not sure what to do with that space. Perhaps make it a walk-in storage closet? We are a family of four with children ages 9 and 7. We will not be building until 2019/2020. Also, the mechanical and plumbing details are not included with the home plan. How difficult is it to have mechanical and plumbing drawn up? What are your thoughts or recommendations for this floor plan? Thanks!

Featured Answer

mike_home

9 years ago

I am curious why you don't want a basement.

The space for the basement stairway would be a good spot for the HVAC equipment. It would be a much better place than an unconditioned attic. A house of this size should have at two or three zones. Perhaps two separate HVAC systems. If space allows you could reserve part of the space as an entry closet for coats.

I suggest working with the builder so all duct work is inside conditioned space. Vaulted ceilings are nice but they can be difficult to heat and cool. They require careful planning of vents and returns.

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Comments (7)

tigerdunes
9 years ago
Where are you building?...
paluwasha
Original Author
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
We will build in Georgia. Land will be at minimum 2 acres gently rolling.
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User
9 years ago
Wow, that plan has 32 directional changes. That will be very costly !
User
9 years ago
HIGHLY agree, put your HVAC in conditioned space. If not, the COOLEST air in the house will be in the HOTTEST part of the house.
PRO
Austin Air Companie
9 years ago
It's more important that the HVAC equipment be placed somewhere that it is easily serviced and that you have ample room for any changes as your family grows.

If zoning is something you may want, cramming the HVAC system in a closet will make this impractical unless you relocate the HVAC system.

Cost wise given your location a basement wouldn't be a bad place to have the HVAC system and duct work in. Basements can pose trouble... radon gas and flooding concerns are two that come to mind.

If it were me, I would never, ever cram a HVAC system in a closet on the main floor. If you can't give it 3 foot clearance minimum all the way around it locate it some place where you can.
sktn77a
9 years ago
I would seriously consider finishing some of the second floor. That could serve as a rec area when the kids get older and provide conditioned space for the HVAC equipment and ductwork.