Building Bunker Villa on a budget using Quonset Hut structure

[@nicklane1897]

13 years in the pacific northwest and it's not leaking or moldy is an accomplishment. no worries building something like this in the high desert

[@markojokanovic349]

@@nicklane1897 good point!

[@El_Choppers]

I was born and raised in the high desert of New Mexico. Excellent point. No worries about condensation at home.✊

[@ramdas363]

Not sure I'll ever understand why people think they need this at all. All the doomsday folks should pool their money and counter Chinese/Russian influence which seeks to destabilize their country. Donate to politicians that keep the country on the right track. Or at least take that cash and invest in a foreign passport. Almost anything is better than these bunkers. So much wasted potential, they're almost never used.

[@VikingShelters]

It was a pleasure having you and your husband come to visit ! Have a great New Year ! Thank you

[@GTLandser]

It seems like you also have experience with Monolithic domes. What prevents you from doing the quonset arches in the same manner (spray foam then rebar and concrete on the inside)? I find it hard to imagine that the steel arches and foam together would not provide at least as much support as a dome form with a few inches of water column in air pressure. Would appreciate your insights into that.

[@__WJK__]

​@@GTLandser - Asside from having less pleasing interior astetics, and some added annoyance fighting with the interrior coating, I don't think it would matter much either way, long as one also sprayed the outside to protect the steel from longterm corrosion. That said, spraying both sides would definitely defeat the low-cost appeal of the original project. I for one would rather spray just the exterior, and put the added savings towards outfiting and stocking the shelter.

[@jameshatton4211]

You've got sub straight away. This is awesome well thought out 👍 As soon as you mentioned the pond liner I knew straight away 'this man has his thinking cap on for sure!' Your experience really shows and you are actually so professional that you are the typical "conspiracy pepper" that media likes to mock all the time. You aren't a hillbilly trying to give surmans at some cultish religious end of days maniac.... but that being said that anything this warped media is downplaying usually means the opposite, right? So my guess is your business in 2024 must be absolutely booming! Lastly, I want to say that I really appreciate that you've shown a bunker that's 13 years old! That right there shows your quality of work and proves your design and concepts stand the test of time! Well done and congratulations

[@handroids1981]

Thanks for inviting them to film. I find the acoustics surprisingly "Normal." Is that because the the walls/ ceiling all act as diffusers? Another plus for the curved design over block, no ear fatigue equals less Cabin Fever. Not zero, just a lot less, haha.

[@paulus.tarsensus]

If you're comfortable with the idea, you should invite Kirsten to visit other bunkers you've done, especially if you have a favourite.

[@armenmarkarian9807]

A periscope would be a nice addition

[@cnigeldgriff6283]

Gunturret

[@DanPianetto]

A network of solar cameras would be more effective.

[@DevinHeida]

@@cnigeldgriff6283 I like that the translation for gun turret is "it thundered"

[@AlexB-km7os]

Couple of hundred walkers swinging around and Daryl with crossbow behind the tree would work the best.

[@williamjones1212]

Or security cameras would be awesome

[@Arkancide]

"Better Living Underground!" I've been looking into the underground life for years now, just never had the capital to make it happen. Now my economic situation has improved, and am seeking capable budget friendly ideas. Thank you for sharing stuff like this, even if it isn't what I'm looking to do it provides options and information I can use going forward. And every builder of these things has insights and ideas that unique and useful. Heck, if nothing else it is fun to watch. :)

[@VikingShelters]

Thanks!

[@4309eee]

@@VikingShelters how much does it cost to build something like that?

[@paulus.tarsensus]

This hut is inexpensive and serviceable, but I wish someone paid better attention to the interior finishing and arrangement: it feels like a bunker. Relying on mains power is strange,considering how he observes early that being without power was one of the things that spurred him to build it.

[@VikingShelters]

Well - there are other options like a generator that isn't shown to power the entire property 😉

[@__WJK__]

Agree, though he mentioned the bunker was built 15+ years ago, so technology has definitely advanced a lot since then. When building one of these today, I'd think he would utilize low-voltage LED lighting and a couple of portable solar generators... which could be recharged using a small generator, portable solar panels, or recharged from a couple of generator-equipped exercise bikes...in a worst case scenario.

[@paulus.tarsensus]

Yeah. The tech's changed super fast. 12V power and low-wattage LEDs are a major advancement for sure. You'd still need AC for motors and induction, but everything else could be 12V.@@__WJK__

[@paulus.tarsensus]

That would be nice. Still nicer would be siting it for wind, solar or water power. I have none of these things, but kerosene generators are a short-term solution in a SHTF scenario and I know it. Have you utilised any solar power and if so, what panels could you recommend for performance and reliability.@@VikingShelters

[@TheCsel]

I think just being underground with all the insulation is an improvement over a normal house if you are in a situation without power. If you have a gas or woodstove that should be enough to cook food until your power is restored. A generator would definitely be another improvement though

[@TexasVeteranPatriot]

If this gentleman will install one in Arkansas, I think he and I will be doing some business soon. I found his channel a few months ago and realized there was a viable alternative to the overly expensive "concrete box". I love his approach to building these and want one built in the same basic layout. I've spent the last 10-15 years of my working life planning and doing the required "homework" of every kind of underground building / structure type that was even marginally affordable, even to repurposed Atlas E, F, Titan II, and other types of military / govt structures. This was one method I had not even considered viable until I saw his videos and all the things he did to make it viable and less expensive. His practical "no waste no BS" attitude and this design is just what I've been looking for. Especially, the look outside. Hard to tell anything is even there, which is exactly the way I want it. Well done! Great video! This adds "extra sauce" for what I've seen of this site already and just confirms that he and I need to talk....

[@VikingShelters]

Thank you ! Looking forward to hearing from you more in the future !! Have a fantastic start to the New Year !

[@crookedandsteep]

Thank you for your service! Also have property in AR and very interested in this.

[@jakeaurod]

I've also always wondered about how to do something like this. I know some people suggest culvert pipe, and a lot of people make bunkers using circular pipes. However, I recall reading a suggestion of cutting them in half and mounting them on pony walls to achieve a similar height with more usable floorspace at half the cost, but I'm not sure if that complicates the engineering and earth-arching geometry for transmitting loads.

[@mikerimkus9143]

How can I get more info

[@travelfeet]

That well access penetration really shows how well planned this building is. Very impressive.

[@lisahodges8299]

It's for protection of there is a war

[@VikingShelters]

Very true ! There was a year or so prior to make sure everything within their budget would be covered and all the super important aspects we're covered.....

[@JohnDoe-np3zk]

​​@@VikingSheltersok here is my so called idea. What about making a pond above to provide protection from water and raise fish? You used epdm to protect might as well really benefit? Granted it would add some weight but could use less dirt.

[@VikingShelters]

​@JohnDoe-np3zk Excellent idea! Fishing 🎣 available for the Airbnb guests ! Haha 👏

[@rongamache6402]

@travelfeet I would have added Vertical Geothermal piping for heating and cooling

[@kurtisb100]

I built something sort of similar; although I didn’t build a guest house out of it. I just use it as a root cellar, but it could have been built to be a bunker or whatever it is you have in mind with your guesthouse. I got a bunch of retaining wall blocks; the kind that are used to terrace steep slopes. They are 30”x30”x60” and weight 4400lbs each. I stacked them 3 high and made the inside 15’x20’ with a 5’ long entryway, with a door on both ends. The roof is scrap pipe I managed to salvage, ranging in size from 8-16” diameter. I corduroyed the roof and welded the pipe together. I live north of the 56th parallel, so it’s quite cold here during winter. It maintains temperature without any heating nearly all winter, even when it hits -40 for weeks on end. Of course, it’s made of 110 tons of concrete, plus probably 30 tons of steel, so there’s a lot of thermal mass. I’ve only had it one summer so far, and it stayed pretty cool all summer once I shaded the door. It’s been a wonderful addition to my farm; and my whole community. Many of my neighbors store all their root vegetables in my cellar. After a whole winter (this is the second winter we’ve had it) the vegetable are still firm. Even apples keep inside for months. I built it more or less on my own, with probably less than 40 hours of help from my wife. It took about 300 hours of my labour, plus about 75 machine hours on a 200 class excavator. It probably would have been possible to use a machine as small as 150 class, but that’s about the smallest that would work. Once the structure was built I buried it about 7’ at the deepest areas and 2’ at the thinnest point.

[@papanam4267]

High cavernous curved ceilings! I love that. It appeals to the inner Enthrall The Neanderthal in me! If I had the acreage for it, this would be my choice. Living in an underground concrete shoebox would be an option only of you live in the suburbs and really have no choice or space. But even then, it sounds like David can set one up at a better price, in shorter time, and with sounder construction than most. Thank you for sharing this, Kirsten.

[@papanam4267]

I agree with David that the water storage should be at a higher level inside so it’s gravity fed and other than “fill-up” time, you won’t have to always work a pump. The interior could use a lot of refinement so it’s more inviting, “homey” and relaxing to the eyes. After the entrance storage hall but before the main “living room” chamber, it would make sense to have an anteroom to leave jackets, hats, muddy boots & footwear at so you don’t track in dirt, dust and wetness.

[@jwyllor]

I agree with all you said. It may be a good idea to have the waterheater updated to an 'on demand' system to cut down on water usage. I would have a rain catchment cistern system to ensure a renewable water system should something happen with the well.

[@VikingShelters]

​@@jwyllorvery true and a great idea for them to do. Sadly, this structure wasn't lived in hardly at all for 10 years so it is what it is now..

[@OPIXdotWORLD]

@@VikingShelters u r the guy that built this..?? well done sir..very impressive...thank u for sharing with us

[@Trevosaurus84]

@@VikingShelters Do you have any issues with condensation?

[@VikingShelters]

@@Trevosaurus84 nope ! The spray foam on the outside stops any condensation from developing. I have no idea why Atlas and others don't spray foam their structures...

[@paulus.tarsensus]

This thing is well insulated and I like the fact he has so much insulation, shot-crete and water-repelling membrane to ensure that it's impervious and secure.

[@siennavanlife9502]

He could have made it A LOT cheaper AND better insulative R value, using aircrete instead of spray foam and shotcrete. Same philosophy just better method and could have done DIY instead of those labor costs.

[@ryaniam22]

@@siennavanlife9502 Ya but he used shotcrete to add strength to the shell. Is aircrete as strong?

[@btgardener39]

@@ryaniam22 Definitely not, from my research. Shot-crete has a compression strength of around 8000 psi, while aerated concrete like air-crete only has a strength around 1000 psi. You'd end up needing a lot more air-crete to achieve the same resistance, and with literal tons of earth all around your structure, well...

[@paulus.tarsensus]

Air-crete is great for insulation and light building block, but if you want durability, strength, structural integrity and a product that can be engineered for hydraulic purposes, then you need steel reinforcement and Shot-Crete ( in structures like this ). In other designs, there is simply nothing better than reinforced concrete, pre-stressed concrete beams and panels and drainage systems backed up by gabions to totally move water away from your underground structure.@@btgardener39

[@richierich2534]

This is by far the best idea I've seen for a bunker the cost is a fraction of what a builder would charge great idea

[@VikingShelters]

Exactly

[@richierich2534]

​@@VikingSheltersI just subscribed to your channel I live in rural fla looking to build something I gotta be careful with permitting they just started snooping around with some of my neighbor's

[@philstone7475]

This has been my dream for several years!!!! I love that someone has done it already! I’m not crazy for thinking this is great! The energy efficiency must be amazing

[@DingleFlop]

I have done countless hours of research on underground structures, and this method never came up. It is, however, quite clever! Definitely some great info here.

[@johnjingleheimersmith9259]

So instead of a cabin on the side of a beautiful mountain or numerous other visions, your dream is to live deep in the dirt because.....?

[@2006gtobob]

Because it's a bunker, and you're protected from what nature and man might do.

[@johnjingleheimersmith9259]

@@2006gtobob if that's your "dream" it sounds like you live in perpetual terror.

[@2006gtobob]

@@johnjingleheimersmith9259 you don't read very well, do you?

[@d.e.7467]

I was born /raised in tornado alley and saw and picked up more damages from tornadoes than I care to recall. People/towns always rebuilt the same type of home that was destroyed by the tornadoes. Why they don't build under the ground amazes me. They don't need to necessarily build a bunker like the one in this video tries to be. I've seen some (probably on this channel) that offer a "normal" habitat (windows, etc.) and safety from natural disasters.

[@SandySez]

I have a underground home in Fla, similar to some she's toured on this channel. But living in Fla for 30 yrs, I often wonder why over & over we see all the coastal hurricane annihilation, yet there will be a few 'hurricane-proof' homes still standing because they were engineered for it (usually Octagon shaped, etc). Also, when I lived in SC I'd walk down to my basement and it would be 70º when it was 98-100º+ outside with 1000's of A/C's going full-bore 24/7. ... and I'd just scratch my head at why everyone doesn't just live in 'basement' dwellings.

[@mm6705]

yeah I don't understand it either. We got like a decently windy rainy day this fall, and many houses in the area had large branches fall through their roof. Literally people still desire houses with trees overhead in this area...keeps it cool or some bullshit. Like you guys forget what happens when thousands of pounds of wood fall? Wasn't even a tornado, wasn't even a hurricane...like just 60mph gusts and a few inches of rain...like I really don't understand how people dont think about these very basic principals. You dont even need to believe in climate change, like just react to what is currently happening, and preserve your living space....but whatever, not my house. (I hope to actually have a house someday, earthshipesque)

[@harrymills2770]

@@SandySez Passive geo gets better in the mid-latitudes and works darn near up to the perma-frost. Down in Florida, the ground's not as cool as it is "up" in $C, where average temperatures are kinder. Up in the permafrost, I think they insulate the house from the ground, rather than delving down.

[@harrymills2770]

@@mm6705 The people who want everyone driving EVs are the biggest obstacle to earthship ideas. EPA and insurance companies are way behind green tech and they collude to get in the way while lecturing us about not being green enough. I can't imagine buying or building a home without a basement. You can fort up any time during the year when the power goes out and stay cool or avoid freezing, in season.

[@SandySez]

@@harrymills2770 makes sense!!

[@roidroid]

5:56 Totally agree, it absolutely needs the concrete. i'd seen a video of a guy's Quonset Hut he was using as a shed, the bolted steel looked just like that. It collapsed during heavy snow! They can't handle a lot of load just on their own, gotta concrete it. And shotcrete is really neat anyway, there was some huge Domes built around here that eventually ended up being used as a car dealership. To build them they inflated a giant balloon & shotcreted ontop of it as a form, then once dry they deflate the balloon and the shotcrete remained as a huge arched bubble, it was strong as heck just due to the arched structure combined with concrete's great compressive strength.

[@VikingShelters]

Wait till you see the next video !!

[@bee_ron]

And rebar?

[@roidroid]

@@bee_ron search wikipedia *"steel fibre-reinforced shotcrete"*

[@Homohumulus]

They are made with different gauges of steel for different snow loads. People need to work direct with manufacturers for huts engineered for their local snow load.

[@roidroid]

@@bee_ron oh fantastic, Google corp deleted my response telling you what the generic term was (coz i linked it's wikipedia article). Didn't tell me tho, just wasted my time as corporations love to do.

[@chriswhinery]

Neat build. I'm looking at this from the beginning thinking, unless it's done right, it won't work. He answered all of my questions one by one. Structure, insulation, condensation, well water, not air filtration though. If this were my place, I'd also plant some trees and bushes to disguise the entry.

[@binder946]

He is a prepper respect

[@papanam4267]

Be careful to plant the trees so their roots don’t over time punch through the subsurface water liner, or undermine the concrete by the front. Tree roots are powerful and over time can crack concrete.

[@VikingShelters]

I will say, we spent over a year before first the first Quonset Underground was built with men who have over 40 years experience combined. There is much more involved than just doing this and why it is worth talking to us about what you desire to do.

[@binder946]

@papanam4267 yes fully agree

[@molsen8869]

I agree with the person saying don't plant trees where the roots could get in the way and penatrate the pond liner or concrete. What you could though, is work with an artist to put up fake but realistic looking "trees" on top of or around the structure using pipes and stuff to look like trees. You could also use that as your skylights.....

[@brt5273]

I like it. Very thoughtful with lots of great ideas. I'd like it siting on top of a 4' straight wall so that you have more headroom and usable space especially at the edges.

[@Soletestament]

I was so confused about the bunker being grid powered and the water tank comment until I reread the description and realized this wasn't the bunker he built for himself, prior to getting into the bunker building industry.

[@robmcnew9074]

amazing build . great idea of quonset hut , foam then shotcrete,. very nice underground house build

[@codecircle423]

I've always loved these kinds of homes. Between this and a monolithic house. They're certainly something that should be standardized.

[@fredachildress3728]

What a great idea, building underground. I live in Texas and I have family living in Oklahoma, and both states are prone to tornados a lot. Living underground, or living in a monolithic dome home are the best types of homes. I heard about a family in Florida who lives in a monolithic dome home, and it has survived the hurricanes which hit that state a lot, while his neighbors see their homes turned into toothpicks. I also heard about a family in California who lives in a monolithic dome home, which survived the wildfires, in fact, they even took in firefighters whonalmost got caught in one those fires, the only thing that they had to do was wash off the soot, and the ones in Florida only had to replace the outside steps. Another good thing about living underground is that a person would not have to worry about unwelcome visitors bothering you, and that is winning situation.😅😅😅😅

[@VikingShelters]

Absolutely! Lots of other practical applications than being a prepper etc..

[@loganbrantley7216]

An underground house in Florida doesn't seem like a good idea considering the high water table. That's also part of why a lot of houses are built up on piers with no basements.

[@fredachildress3728]

Logan when I was talking about living underground, I didn't mean in Florida, because after all that would be impractical. But here in Texas, Oklahoma and some other states which get hit with tornados a lot, then those would make sense. Like I said that gentleman whose family has a monolithic dome home only has to replace the outside steps after a hurricane while their neighbors homes are devastated.

[@janman55]

This is not a living space. It’s an emergency shelter. It would never meet any building code criteria. All living spaces require a window to the outside.

[@loganbrantley7216]

@@janman55 I dont think that is true. I think it is just two methods of ingress/egress. Doesn't have to be a window. The hatch and the front door should suffice. ​

[@timjchick]

A structure like this is my dream retirement home. No worries about most natural disasters, efficient to heat and cool, etc.

[@SVThailand]

Yes....live your retirement in fear...sounds amazing

[@timjchick]

@@SVThailand fear of what? Underground homes are more energy efficient than normal homes. They aren’t just for doomsday preppers.

[@peejae082004]

Stealth is a mandatory feature of any bunker for me. This is one of the best ones I've seen so far.

[@VikingShelters]

That is very true ! There are a 100+ additional things that could be done to improve this type of structure. It is all about the budget of the customer!

[@melissatopham4018]

Nothing stealthy about a big red door...lol

[@AngelRamirez-lp4nr]

@@melissatopham4018 and Melissa knows what she's talking about guys, she's dressed to die for an oil company.

[@melissatopham4018]

@@AngelRamirez-lp4nr it's an AI generated costume with my face ..but ok...lmao

[@cupbowlspoonforkknif]

You could easily make this almost invisible by facing the entrance away from the driveway and planting shrubs around the vents to hide them. Or you cover the entrance with a tiny rustic unassuming cabin as a disguise.

[@deannacalef3513]

What a wonderful well thought out project. Isn't it something how few crew were needed to assemble it.

[@VikingShelters]

3-4 people along with shotcrete crew...

[@paperplane1098]

Fire proof underground buildings in australia now have very strict certification requirements after several people suffocated inside during the black saturday bushfires in 2009. intense fires suck out all the oxygen from the air.

[@cameltoast]

That's what I thought too about fire, but I guess you can't plan for everything

[@osco4311]

Yeah, I'd definitely want the option to close it off exterior air, and have submarine style oxygen candles available in a true emergency.

[@ximono]

Oxygen tanks even

[@osco4311]

@@ximono tanks don't hold much breathable air, so you'd want something like a oxygen candle from a plane or submarine for a larger space or longer wait. Especially since an O2 tank is, ironically, a fire hazard

[@LaylaDSmith]

Wonder how much plants you would need to produce enough o2

[@lindas5964]

This is fascinating. In an evolving world I’d be very interested in discussion on high security, not merely relying on cameras but actual physical security features, while still allowing attractive & comfortable homey feel inside and out. Being able to then fully secure the property when you’re not there is a huge factor for me.

[@VikingShelters]

You'd be surprised what wasn't shared in this video and what is available nowadays!

[@willbass2869]

Everything you were shown is just a "dummy" the REAL bunker is probably 40 feet below this structure with multiple tunnels, water storage, generators.😮

[@9amStudio]

amazing shot crest and spray foam! I would have never thought of that. genius!

[@solifugus]

I would use the water tank as energy storage (gravity-fed through an electric turbine). I would actually have two tanks--one for the aquaponics system and another for fresh drinking water. The aquaponics would be continually cycled using a windmill up above. Both could generate electricity. The freshwater would come from distillation from the last tank of the water treatment system (two-tank algae-based). For the lighting, I would use upside-down planters. That is, plants have their roots above in water/soil above in a lip with holes for the stems to grow down and spread leaves toward the natural spectrum LED lights below. This make really use of the space, growing plant food and fish and oxygen. The biggest challenge would be keeping the smells down. So the aquaponics should be sealed up over the fish tanks with algae behind wire meshes to clean up the water and create oxygen where the fish can only eat algae that grows out from behind the protecting wire mesh.

[@MicahMelnyk]

Unfortunately, your energy generated would be almost nil, unless you consumed a boat ton of water and your water tank was on a hill way up. Might power an LED strip or something.

[@toddh377]

Very interesting. If weather gets more extreme could see this as a viable living option

[@__WJK__]

For sure, pretty soon we're all going to want to live in submarines, at the bottom of the ocean :^)

[@willbass2869]

I think moving is easier/better than trying to ride out some planetary climate change scenario......

[@northernpianotuner3319]

Lots of things to admire here! I wish for a house that would blend these features with an earthship house.

[@DingleFlop]

This is the exact route I'm taking. My dream house is a perfect blend of a strong structure like this, with a traditionally framed building on its front/top.

[@dameanvil]

0:08 ⚙ The idea stemmed from a power outage during an ice storm, realizing vulnerability without electricity or water. 1:00 🏗 Building an underground structure like a Quonset Hut takes less labor, time, and money compared to monolithic ports. 1:36 🛠 The Quonset Hut concept allows for quicker and more affordable construction, making it accessible to anyone with construction experience. 3:00 🏗 Erecting a Quonset Hut involves a simple process of lifting, bolting, and tightening, taking about a day with a small team. 4:01 🚧 The structure can be built rapidly compared to traditional concrete walls, making it an inexpensive and efficient alternative. 5:31 💰 The cost comparison shows that a Quonset Hut underground structure is significantly more affordable than conventional concrete constructions. 6:55 🌧 Selecting a location with proper drainage is essential; without proper fall, constructing an underground structure is unadvisable. 8:00 💨 Underground structures like these are impervious to external weather conditions, making them safe during storms, wind, or fires. 10:51 🍳 Despite being underground, these structures can feature functional kitchens, though propane burners are more practical than wood stoves. 12:55 🚰 A functional water system, gravity-fed if possible, along with a well-designed ventilation system, ensures practicality and comfort. 15:55 🌬 The underground structure's natural temperature stability (around 55°F) makes it comfortable, with adjustable ventilation to regulate airflow. 18:04 🛠 Utilizing materials efficiently, such as repurposing 4x4s, minimizes waste and maximizes resource use during construction. 20:00 🏢 Quonset Huts offer flexibility in size, adaptable for various purposes beyond underground shelters, such as workshops or getaways. 21:25 🌐 The motivation behind these structures often involves preparing for unforeseen events or creating secure, hidden retreats.

[@paulus.tarsensus]

I'm old enough to remember when quonset huts were called Nissen Huts. Always liked them. The structures he uses are much better than the original WW1 and WW2 structures, which were thrown together from thin sheets of corrugated steel or iron.

[@VikingShelters]

Excellent job ! Thank you

[@thegreatcornholio2940]

Thanks for sharing

[@Vbluevital]

Well thought out. Impressive Thank You

[@mrfox3k]

copy paste from chatGPT

[@kimhorton6109]

A friend’s father in Shreveport built one of these Quonset kits by himself at 75. He dry poured the floor, and put his own door on the building. Very easy to errct. This would likely be secure in a direct hit from a tornado.

[@VikingShelters]

Thank you for sharing your friends fathers experience! That is one of the reasons this type of structure stood out so much for us, it has been proven to work by USA military.

[@donnagranier6375]

We live in a quonset! Not underground.

[@kimhorton6109]

@@donnagranier6375 I did in the service myself. The side walls are so close to verticals you still have plenty of room. I like this idea of spraying concrete where I live in Arkansas. Tornados come thru here every year.

[@loriturner609]

I just came upon a video from Viking the other day - glad to see they have worked it all out! I have been dreaming of building a Quonset home for a few years now, and wondered if you could put one underground as well since the structure is so strong. This shows you it’s not only possible, it’s also preferable and very efficient. Great tour, thanks!

[@VikingShelters]

Excellent to hear ! Please reach out to us before doing anything because it may seem like turn key but there are dozens of extremely important factors that decide whether you're structure is waterproof......

[@SandySez]

I'm so grateful to live in a 'traditional' if you can call it that .... 1800 sq ft underground concrete home that was built (not by me) 30 yrs ago. But hearing David mention the cost comparison gave me the idea to use the original engineer drawings, data and blueprints to get a current market quote on the poured frame, custom slab 'roof' and membrane just to see what it would cost in today's market. Not to mention, it's in hurricane-prone Florida ... which is even more rare geographically!

[@dontrend5956]

And what would it cost today?

[@SandySez]

@@dontrend5956 I'm anxious to find out but don't know yet. Just saw this yesterday. I have to 'dig out' blueprints, find/contact the engineers and membrane supplier with some specs to get quotes. It's a bit of a project. There are about 3 different entities I have to put calls or emails in to with the right info prepared .... then wait for quotes/responses.

[@cmerton]

Florida is basically a large swamp, at just about sea level. You ain't gonna bury no quonset hut there...

[@bensmith4563]

@cmerton what you do in that case is built it above ground then dig a big pond and use that dirt to make it underground

[@Me-ei8yd]

This is the quickest and cheapest way to do this. Hes right forms and pour + time? Gah! $500k. A quonset is not structural for downward forces - which is why you need shotcrete. If you did it without it would colapse. Well done brotha!!! Really well planned and thought oht for someone that doesnt have a mil to throw at this project! ♥️🇨🇦♥️

[@VikingShelters]

Thank you! This is one of many and proven to work for over a decade..

[@yoursacredquest]

Well thought out design and construction.

[@VikingShelters]

Thank you !

[@cameltoast]

Interesting to see the explanation from the builder's perspective. Also interesting that the owner didnt care to show their secret underground bunker to the world. Haha

[@robertkerby2581]

I really enjoyed this video, and I think that this "Quonset Hut" design is exceptionally brilliant! Well done!

[@dwayneelizondomountaindewh1465]

I always like the idea, but I have different plans if I was ever to make one. This all led me to discover these things called Earthships, which is like half a bunker. Then I realized that the two concepts must be joined together, internally and architecturally. Instead of a Earth ship with a buried air pipe, it needs a buried bunker lol. 4 ft pipe, that leads to a section of 8 feet pipe/ bunker room, that can be sealed off that tapers down to a 4 foot air pipe /escape hatch section, that tapers to a 12 inch air pipe intake that breaches the surface of dirt and is screened off. Now we can filter the air coming into your house normally, where the 12 inch foot pipe meets your 4 footer. lol. You have a accessible and egressible escape, so they are perfect candidates for bunkers with escape routes. Passiv houses are great, for people with bunkers. I believe that will greatly improve the design, people are doing now, to at very least include a 4 ft escape pipe. Might even bring them up to code, with fire safety The passiv homes are heated and cooled, by a passive stacking of air or convection. They are very cool pieces of engineering, with enough planning we can actually bypass heating and air. If we position our house towards the south, use solar windows, the best insulation and sealing that we can. Then, this buried cooling pipe really ends up being the only source of incoming air whatsoever. The air escapes out one of the front facing windows, which is a popular place to grow plants. One way to improve the cooling, would be filtered air induction. You can control the air coming into your home, that's beautiful for sleeping, filtered air is good stuff. Why not make them fancier, no reason to be so low tech. Make a 10-12 foot high concrete wall, U shape with a 4 foot pipe sticking out the back end, to a 8 foot pipe room along the back, then escape / air. Install a armored door in your 4ft pipe system to the valve in the 8 foot tube shelter, whatever length you like. Bury a water tank, cistern 5k gallons. And now bury the back side of your wall, bury everything up with rocks that can drain and set your escape hatch, start there with a big great room in the center of three walls. Make a utility room with exhaust that will go out the top, you could use more buried pipe section. Make layers of insulation, the more materials used on the front, the roof line, the better effect you will have indoors, use the best windows, angle them up towards the sun. That's a good starting point, actually, 30 -40 feet wide, 20 deep back wall, this is a Passiv Haus, design. The front wall is not much taller than the back wall, maybe 16-18 feet, little wider than the back. The width is what kills our thermal package, the height is okay, or can be managed easier, depth makes it easier for us to manage, when we bury the sides a lot with dirt. You only have windows on the front, so it's actually okay to have huge window space. 40 foot telephone poles can now be used for a roof, angled up to the front then cut. Height make interior space feel better, this lofting effect feels good. The peace of mind of having a escape tunnel and air filter, a bunker and all that would make me sleep like a million bucks. All we are talking about is a corrugated steel pipe, a heavy 4x4 welded door and some valves. So, the longer sections of pipe we use the better regulating temperature, so the final section should go on for a while around the back and sides of the home if possible. This serves as the cooling pipe, so we want to over engineer the pipe make it bigger and better. By adding a bunker here, 30 feet of that x 8 feet, some extra pipe leading to it and from it, this adds perfectly to the design of the Earth ship, passiv hous thing. It's a passive house, with a attached tunnel basically of cheap pipe, and it's buried behind the house, this should be totally self regulating climate. You don't understand how much energy we use, all we have to do is a bury a big air pipe and that would be like climate control. The air filter can be expensive, but I would like one anyways, and a blower for inside the tunnel pipe, a swiss one with a manual crank option, just in case I needed to live in there, to avoid a nuclear explosion or fallout, a airbourne pandemic, I would quarantine inside there for a few months, in the tunnel, then I could come out, either through my home or the escape hatch. I would have it connected to the utility room probably through a 4' pipe, so I could reach my utilities and electrical in emergency. Heck, my utilities barely need much access as long as they work, but climbing in the door would be rough. Food storage already in there, with buried 5k gallons of water hookup and I will have batteries and flashlight, radios, batteries, soap. This is a good option for cheap survival, not that much money when your walls are made of sewage pipe, it's a lot of welding. You need a bunch of welding, for the pipes 4' 90's to 8' junctions and the door and valve pipes, also caps for the ends. I'm sure a few guys can knock it out, in a few days of welding the plates and pipes together, then check for leaks. Just make sure you don't leak, weld everything and coat everything outside, inside, whatever. This should provide a nice and quiet, almost silent home with no vents or running machine noises, they will be too far away underground your living area.

[@williamjones1212]

I like the bison water well hand pump , we have one in the house, After the hurricane hit here in West Central Louisiana, we decided to put one in..

[@muzzlevelocity4397]

With six feet of earth covering the structure, it would only need the addition of a 90 degree corner in the hallway, an NBC air system, and a blast pressure relief valve to be a genuine bunker in case of nuclear attack. The skylights would probably have to go also and the escape hatch would have to house a barrier of six feet of sand to keep that area radiation proof, but that would be about it.

[@VikingShelters]

Very true- the client didn't build it for that type of situation though..

[@SurvivalBetty]

I would really like to see one of these built like that!

[@DanielRichards644]

if a global nuclear war happens do you really want to live in the aftermath of that? And i'm ignoring the radiation when I say aftermath, I'm talking the political landscape and all the other crap that would happen as society collapses.

[@Ok-551]

This is not a blast shelter, more a fallout shelter, and you only need a blast shelter, within 25 miles of a detonation.. Outside of that, you need only 3 feet of earth to dilute gamma radiation, fallout by a Pf of 1/100. You don’t need an air filter for fallout, it attaches to dirt, does not travel through air. The intakes are long and in a downgrade. It’s a great design to live long term, high ceilings etc. the entrance is pretty long, but a 90 degree would be worth it. The skylight is a weak point, and the escape hatch is too. But all in all, outside of a blast zone, I’d take this over everything else I’ve seen. Specially dollar for dollar. There’s a good paper on the castle bravo tests that went wrong, and bigger, detonation crew was 20 miles away and survived. And that was like 15mt vs the average 800 kt Soviet warhead, this place is in the boon docks and probably good to go by my take.

[@SFE3610]

​@Ok-551 what are you smoking? You would need an air filtration system past 25 miles, yes the particles attach to dirt but those dust particles are then carried on the wind and in the rain for thousands of miles in the event of total nuclear war there could be enough radiation that between the global dust and rain you most certainly would need air filtration

[@juliahelland6488]

Thanks again for sharing this! I really love the idea of a earth berm quonset building. 💯

[@VikingShelters]

It is easier than you think but also a large number of processes that are extremely important to follow to prevent many issues that we spent months or longer considering...

[@idahoduckhunter]

I really enjoyed this and enjoyed David's thoughtfulness in all the planning for the building. I want to build a mini one as a storm shelter that has a little more wiggle room.

[@DJVesperX]

Its not "pretty" looking but it's still a big deal. I have theorized all these concepts he discussed were possible, but have rarely seen more than one in a single structure. This is the first time I've seen all these innovations in once single structure. So cool. 👍

[@VikingShelters]

Thank you !

[@DingleFlop]

This video was absolutely fascinating. Thank you.

[@whoami6702]

"...how vulnerable you are when you are locked away from power for two weeks..." Fear is (often) the (unrecognized) mother of invention. ❤

[@nneichan9353]

I wonder about putting a double thickness green house on top. because if TSHTF you are going to need fresh food. I've seen some people actually make insulated greenhouses that allow year round growing even in Canada and Nebraska. Composting can also add a bit of heat to the greenhouse. Wonder if it would be practical?

[@btgardener39]

Seems like it would be doable, but then you're once again vulnerable to a high-wind or big fire situation. A greenhouse just wouldn't hold up well under those circumstances. It might make more sense to just build a more traditional garden/orchard nearby, knowing that you could store up root vegetables (potatoes, carrots, garlic, etc), can fruits, and have a good store on hand for a cold winter.

[@ximono]

Not very stealthy, but you could put a poly tunnel on top of this thing.

[@jasongeorge125]

Actually alot of bunkers in the same area. Helped build quite a few. Great job.

[@Barzol636]

I found that guy that built that very clever and he spoke well I enjoyed watching that Thank you

[@TheGearTester]

I really like the fact that it looks like your are actually living in this thing. Too often people build things like this as show homes or conversation pieces.

[@bensonboys6609]

It was nice seeing George Clooney’s underground bunker! Keep up the good work!

[@cdamauser1963]

this design looks alot like the one above ground in Joshua Tree you visited a few years ago. Nice setup both times. the Roman Arch design is ages old. Great video Kirsten Dirksen.😊

[@teri2651]

love quonset huts, and earth builds, straw bale and all this. i need to buy land!

[@stephencrowther524]

Love the steel door with the tu’penny padlock ! Padlocks are not secure.

[@colinbluth5461]

this one in particular is really cool

[@jaygobolos9302]

The biggest challenge seems like it'd be keeping the water out I guess.

[@VikingShelters]

exactly...

[@wildgeeseod67]

Love this. Think I’d have decorated with my modern furniture to make it feel like a trendy apartment but it’s a personal preference.

[@mikeloki2064]

Looks like a solid structure. I can't help but wonder why the storage is in the front entrance. Since it's a quonset hut and the sidewalls go to the ground, building knee walls and storing inside would be ideal and you'd have more open living space.

[@VikingShelters]

There are dozens of different things that could be done on this type of structure. A lot of things were done per what the customer desired and their budget at the time..

[@mikeloki2064]

@@VikingShelters As I recall the budget for this was minuscule and it is certainly well crafted. What interests me often is why certain choices are made.

[@TheCsel]

Probably the biggest reason if its used as a cellar for auxiliary food storage, the food can be accessed easily from the outside, and without bothering anyone inside if its in use as a guest house. Additionally having food near the entrance in the winter may keep the food cooler and preserved longer.

[@Praise___YaH]

Guys, Here is our Savior HalleluYAH = “Praise ye YaH” YaH is The Heavenly Father YaH arrives via the TENT OF MEETING YaH was Who they Crucified for our sins YaH was Crucified on an Almond TREE - Ancient Semitic Cuneiform of Moshe (Moses) - Isa Scroll (The Original Isaiah) Isaiah 42:8 "I am YaH; that is my Name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols. Isaiah 43:11 I, I am YAH, and there is no other Savior but Me. Isaiah 45:5 I am YaH, and there is none else.

[@wanderingeye7724]

Instead of having a huge million dollar home built exposed on the surface, it would make sense to have a smaller exterior 300K home (maybe even a dome with amazing views) the garage, and then an attached hallway to the 100K-200K "bunker" to use as an extension of the home. In weather emergencies you go to the bunker section for safety. I wouldn't necessarily build it for an apocalyptic scenario or to be a prepper, but more of to deal with the intense weather conditions that are becoming more common. If your home gets destroyed, you have a back up....

[@mumpygumboo8554]

Great build, technically really well done. I just wouldn't want to live without windows, though....

[@MojitoDravecz]

Okay, I’ve always scratched my head about the obsession around the kislux book totes and their practicality, but this one is adorable!! Congratulations

[@TheMadManPlace]

very interesting... beats the heck out of putting up shuttering and pouring tons and tons of concrete.

[@rickybailey7123]

This is hands down the best way to do a bunker thank you for sharing this was so cool !! I wont to build my house like this and my shop it's free ac year round the power bill would be just about nothing monthly!!

[@mayiakashmurr3000]

I’m am going to do this on my 20 acre property. I have been dreaming about something like this for years.

[@VikingShelters]

Be sure to chat with someone who knows exactly what they're doing.... there are dozens of things we learned over the years and biggest is knowing way everything is waterproof..

[@mayiakashmurr3000]

@@VikingShelters thank you. I will make sure I find out everything I need to know and beyond before I attempt this.

[@joeyanderson6660]

​@@VikingSheltersdo u know how to do this? I wanna go for sucha structure

[@joeyanderson6660]

​@@mayiakashmurr3000keep me posted, maybe we can do this tog

[@warrenbowen6223]

Id love to see an adaptation of this for bush fire prone areas of Australia.. perhaps with a small low cost structure with natural light built on top that can be sacrificed in a fire and cheaply rebuilt.

[@fredsimmons2793]

Thanks so much Kirsten ,this layout is encouraging and the man was down to earth.

[@VikingShelters]

Thank you!

[@papanam4267]

Literally, yes, down👇to earth!

[@papanam4267]

@@VikingShelters The thanks are ours!

[@priscillawrites6685]

The biggest problem in underground structures is moisture/mold. I wouldn’t use Sheetrock underground - it’s hydrophilic.

[@sk8board44]

Induction only uses less power if you use it for a short time. If you use it for longer it uses more power than a regular electric stove.

[@airbrushken5339]

Back in the 1970's after my military service (9 years), I got a job with DOD procurement which was part of 5th Army. I was put in charge of dismantling contracts for some old "Nike" missile bases ... most were built in the mid 1950's. For the troops we had Quonset Huts as quarters. One company won the contract, but after a long period of time they still hadn't finished and the land had to be restored and given back to the counties. My boss asked me to go and check up on them and see what the problem might be. It seems the guy would spray can number each panel, photograph the building, clear out the plumbing and electrical first, then unbolt the panels and ship them to another group of sites as he had them sold. One company, I found out, had bought one for a sand blasting shed. So instead of us doing the job and selling them at auction (property disposal), we paid this company for the labor and while he also the units for a profit ... smart guy. Our mistake as we listed the project for bids as a demolition project, so most companies were looking at just tearing them down and scraping the steel.

[@GrouchoTM]

This one is real cool! And the expense is well worth the look! I would definitely consider this when i have the property to do it!

[@chadrowlett893]

Thank you. I’ve been thinking of exactly the same thing. This took a lot of the thinking out of the process

[@comfortablynumb9342]

I love this idea. Super cool. I want one to live in.

[@VikingShelters]

I will say after living in many underground structures, it is like sleeping in a cave... zero noise aka anything from the outside, it is life changing.

[@boogiedownforever]

love the windows and finishing work

[@mgdubya27]

My uncle just lost his house in the fires last summer. If he had something like this he would be pretty much unaffected.

[@__WJK__]

For sure, only problem is, some municipalities get funny about allowing these types of structures, unless you're in a more rural area where nobody minds as much. Also, land that's really rocky, or packed full of trees, can be extremely challenging. Lastly, in order to survive a fire in one of these structures, the air handeling system would need to be relatively fireproof and also properly filtered to prevent smoke and toxic gasses/fumes, from entering the structure.

[@papanam4267]

@@__WJK__ Yes, David showed us the dropdown “guillotine” panels to shut off airflow in case of an outside fire to keep smoke from coming in. Installing air filters is an option that would require air blowers to push air through because carbon, particulate, and HEPA filters will slow and stop natural air flow. I would, however, at minimum, install more robust anti-rodent screens and behind those, insect screens as well to keep inquisitive rodents and ants from scurrying through the air passages and into the living quarters.

[@VikingShelters]

That is the thing.... even a quonset hut structure with 6" of concrete above ground would allow you to survive a wildfire or hurricane etc.... it doesn't have to be underground! It is all about what one can afford, you can spend 100k + to filter air for 5 months. It's all about your budget.... My condolences to your uncle !

[@willbass2869]

​@@papanam4267for all we *really know* those inlets/outlets shown are just "dummies" to confuse & distract. Lol

[@maribelaguilar7270]

This so great for California fires

[@ashadowawhisper]

You’ve GOTTA see if you can do Cody Lundin’s house! It’s all rammed earth with almost entirely natural light and large south-facing wall like this fellow was just talking about.

[@weekendatbernies2265]

Yikes, can’t really pull this off in Florida. Best to just get the F out o here ASAP😅 Fantastic.. bet this guys is Busy these days.

[@michaelangelo7511]

Great job. Not hardly a small or cheap project but great job. 👍🏻🇺🇸

[@papanam4267]

Tornado proof, forest fire proof, roof leak proof, flood resistant because it’s on high ground, and big-foot proof… what’s there not to like? Once you install solar panels and back up batteries, this will be great for anywhere and even for California country living!

[@VikingShelters]

It wasn't mentioned but there is a massive generator and fuel tank elsewhere....

[@cyclemoto8744]

Windows and landscaping ;)

[@EqualKinks]

IDK about California, its not land slide proof haha

[@hisdaughter7814]

It wouldn’t work in Florida either. Lol

[@Praise___YaH]

Guys, Here is our Savior HalleluYAH = “Praise ye YaH” YaH is The Heavenly Father YaH arrives via the TENT OF MEETING YaH was Who they Crucified for our sins YaH was Crucified on an Almond TREE - Ancient Semitic Cuneiform of Moshe (Moses) - Isa Scroll (The Original Isaiah) Isaiah 42:8 "I am YaH; that is my Name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols. Isaiah 43:11 I, I am YAH, and there is no other Savior but Me. Isaiah 45:5 I am YaH, and there is none else.

[@akirandrake414]

Technically couldn't you build it out with more tunnels branching off to more buildings?

[@winfordnettles3292]

You will see this type of structure on Mars soon. A similar technique, using regolith, is being engineered currently. Robots will be used for most of the primary construction, then, the finishing will be done by the future occupants.

[@mrmongo656]

Networking a few of these on isolated property is what I was thinking, including a tunnel from an above ground structure for those "wanna go incognito" moments.

[@shaynecoventry8894]

Oddly enough I want one. I would just live in it. If given the money and resources this would make a phenomenal home.

[@avidtraveller]

There was no mention of a septic system. How does this system deal with the waste?

[@cherimitchell8977]

Excellent engineering.

[@Jeffindsm]

As long as no trees can fall on it or vehicles can drive on it. The ventilation is kind of sketchy if someone wanted in. They have an easy way to take away fresh air thus debilitating the inhabitants

[@VikingShelters]

The customer was not concerned about that...

[@shannonstiles8751]

I love it. I thought he was just going to bury it and then I thought I would shot Crete it and low and behold he did. I would do some different things with the ventilation, just size wise but I want one.🇺🇸

[@CanadianMapleleaf]

The door is only as good as the lock is.

[@blueman5924]

👍after watching the lock pick guy on uTube, I don’t think much of locks anymore.😂

[@papanam4267]

@@blueman5924 Truth.

[@P_RO_]

@@blueman5924 I'm a Locksporter, and believe me it does take awhile to gain the skills needed to pick good locks. Even the bypass methods require practice and knowledge that most non-pickers do not have. Do learn which locks are good and why; it's not all about picking or bypass resistance but that does matter too. Security is a whole, and if you make one method of entry too tough there's always another way in.

[@davidbolduc828]

Yeah but nobody knows where it is located.

[@CanadianMapleleaf]

@@davidbolduc828 Ha! Great point!!😊

[@87MookTV]

I was already looking at getting a small piece of land for myself and building a cabin. This would be perfect to put beneath it to better use the land and keep the natural beauty.

[@cirelefebure5485]

Prepper's dream... Good job!

[@deepbludude4697]

Very cool! Back in the 80s I worked on an Island in the middle of the S. Atlantic there was WWII Qhuts buried directly under the lava rocks. Total of seven Qhuts there I only found 5. One was full of jeep parts, one was full of explosives had to be BIP (Blown in Place), 2 where used as party huts0On the beach). Very cool idea Ive been thinking about this for years.

[@JohnDoe-np3zk]

Thorough tour well done

[@jamesellsworth9673]

Fine coverage of the major issues involved in building underground.

[@frbrable]

If you were part of a party of hungry people moving across the landscape in some post-apocalyptic scenario, I don't think it would be too hard to get into this bunker. I bet that front door could be breached just using a human-powered battering ram. Or the occupants could be smoked out or suffocated. Or baked alive using a giant bonfire on top (might be a challenge with that much soil though). The best bet would be to hide the entire thing more effectively, including changing the immediate local geography to funnel people away from the area so they don't see it at all.

[@VOIDSTRANGER2099]

bro u probly a menace irl lol

[@TKOin2life]

I see you have spent time playing out these apocolypse scenarios. Valid point.

[@Andrea-LovesYouStill]

This is an awesome space. I like the storage and separate quarters available. One suggestion I would make : stucco and paint the inside walls. Even just paint would make it more livable, but either way it definitely beats my condos in Vegas as far as survival goes 🤯

[@badapple65]

People like this gentleman are prepared for what many of us feel is coming. Because we see the signs of it in an orchestrated fashion.

[@Sarah-xw2ff]

Ah yes, doom is around the corner. Eyeroll.

[@papanam4267]

@badapples65 True, but we should have more Faith and avoid such fear which only allows others to manipulate us, and to take money and consent away from us. Fearful or fear free, I would still build such a dwelling though because it’s so cool! The temperature is naturally moderate and constant, so you save on energy bills. It’s safe from wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, ice storms, power failures, and Big Foot (LOL). It’s really quiet, and overall a totally cool way of living out in the country. You could also Air B&B it to recoup your construction expenses. I think it has a lot of potential from many angles, but the child in me likes the novelty and fun angle of it. This would be really cool also in hot desert places in Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas.

[@tonyaharrison4086]

So wonderful they are going to preserve it and they come together and celebrate their family in this house with their family history began!!

[@jameshatton4211]

This would make for a great Australian style of "ground house" as we don't call them bunkers here incase people start getting hysterical lol. They would sell like crazy in Coober Pedy gem fields as they are ALL underground structures as we get close to 50 degrees Celsius 😲 out there and nothing can survive above ground to live. People might work above ground (and lots below) but they ALL live underground out there!

[@lobstermash]

I thought the Coober Pedy houses all had to be dug out of the soft rock - ? This guy just excavated soil, built the Quonset hut and reburied it - all easy when you're dealing with soil. Is there deep soil in CP?

[@jameshatton4211]

@@lobstermash don't know man I'm not from there. Way too hot for my liking out that way? I have seen the houses for sale onine and they seem to be hand dug and then bricked up inside? There are tunnels everywhere so I'm assuming that the miners who were working comfortable underground didn't like the idea of going up in the heat whilst not on shift, so they just used an already dug and depleted mine and then just did with a normal house just no need for trusses or anything? However, my point was that there are people out there still building houses and if they are spending all that money on bricks and mortar, then something like this could possibly be a solution? I recall that the 3 bedroom place I saw about 3 years ago went for fairly cheap considering the price for building materials in current money; however it was built in the 1970s so it looked a little dated just with the styling and colours so if you were going to work or live out there it would have been a steal.....but it's not a very developed town by any means? You are lucky to have the basics in a place like that I reckon?

[@lobstermash]

@@jameshatton4211 Yeah, I get your point if they're building above ground, a Quonset hut well insulated might be a good deal. But for building below ground, if it's rock not soil, the size of a Quonset hut would make for a huge and difficult excavation. Even so it would be pretty cool - Halls of the Mountain King.

[@jameshatton4211]

@@lobstermash couldn't they just do the same thing and effectively "cut the roof off" am existing expired mine and do as they have done here? Same thing except you aren't wheel barrowing loads of cement in and then waiting a long time for it to cure (and/adjusting the mix to make it cure quicker for the slab being in a cave so to speak - risking integrity vs waiting a very long time for it to cure) reducing quality or waiting a long time adding to the build duration? I would imagine that cutting the roof of and clearing out the space would be much much easier than digging directly into the ground?! I'm sure it's not ALL rock because most of the tunnels at CP were hand dug a long time ago? It would be morning to penetrate the roof and then just keep breaking away at the hole and then just an escalator to clear it out. You could easily pay for that in savings from materials? When it's. Finished you just don't push all of it back in on top? If there are already houses build there and they are at mine level 1, then I'm sure there would be facilities piping for evacuation of water and or lift pumps and or you adopt what ever existing standard that they use at CP mines for stormwater and run off? As I said I don't live there but if there are people out there (which there is) and they are converting stuff anyway, then something like this could be a good solution? Perhaps adopting some of the methods but doing them reverse ofter might be better? As in leaving the roof, ditching the tin shed structure then spray concrete, then spray foam (maybe a jig or frame that stays in place till it cures? Then give it a light render and then paint? 🤔

[@markmitchell590]

@@lobstermash the downside of cutting into rock is you don't get the quick wins of more square footage by adjusting the foundation plan. The upside is that getting more space is a 1:1 with effort, not an engineering or materials (trusses, etc) issue. So you start small and grow 'in'.

[@suburbanbiology]

I'd love to see someone bury a bolt-together water tank for rainwater collection. Find one of them please!! :) Great work as always!

[@npsit1]

"Affordable" is totally subjective. For a billionaire, a fallout shelter that costs $100M is affordable. For a person flipping burgers at McD's, a cardboard box is affordable. All that said, this is a pretty cool idea compared to the cost of other survival shelters.

[@markmitchell590]

He chose to swap money for time; when he talked about poured 'crete vs shotcrete, if you're self building you set forms in the evenings for what you can pour yourself on a Saturday, then move them the next week. Or you can do chicken wire reinforced cement over bent irrigation pipe and literally trowel your monolith.

[@DanielRichards644]

The underground pipes for ventilation remind me of the Earthship houses out in Arizona. As for temperature, once you get several feet underground (basically below the frost line + a few feet) the temperature stays pretty consistent all year round. Never thought of shotcreting a Quonset Hut so you could bury it, personally I would go with at least an exposed south facing wall I could put windows in to gain solar heating in the winter like the Earthships do, but i'm not looking for a Bunker to hide away from the world in, I'm looking for a super efficient house that could function off grid if the need arose.

[@richvail7551]

Very impressive and affordable.

[@winfordnettles3292]

Thanks so much for posting the video. Gives us some great ideas for a shelter.