Hobbit Hole Tiny House Build: Concrete Foundation, Block Walls, Concrete Roof, CMU Retaining Wall

#construction #lordoftherings #concrete
In this video I excavate for the Hobbit Hole foundation, make the forms for the mono slab foundation, pour the concrete using a concrete pump truck, lay a cinder block wall, cut rebar for a concrete two way slab roof and pour the roof. I hope you enjoy watching this Hobbit Hole tiny house go together! Thanks!

[@lawtonburch7458]

Making sure the rebar is lifted up before the pour? This guys a real pro

[@robertlassiter907]

I’m going to take a WAG here (wild ass guess) and say that this Dude knows his way around laying blocks and working rebar and pouring concrete.

[@TRAVISGOLDIE]

I find it enlightening to watch how different countries handle the same problems or methods in construction. I grew up in a family of carpenters and we were quite rural. But some of the methods used here I saw 35 years ago we don’t use as much anymore. Like a formwork carpenter very few getting around anymore with alloy and plastic formwork systems. And rebar as opposed to reinforcement sheet. Either way this structure will survive thermonuclear and outlast us all

[@mickeyshooter5298]

I’m an electrician, and I find comparing different electrical systems and practices of various countries pretty fascinating myself.

[@steventaylor2756]

I feel like the other videos are more than engaging, but these fast paced recap videos are fun to see as well. They definitely both have their place!

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks:-)

[@DaveShap]

I've wanted to do this kinda thing for ages. Thanks for the detailed walkthrough

[@Odd-Lots]

You're welcome. You should go for it:-)

[@RamakrishnanSRM]

Ironically, this house is much stronger than most of the houses in the USA.

[@Odd-Lots]

True:-)

[@caveranger369]

Indeed

[@MarkKoekenbakker]

European houses usualy are stronger than American houses.

[@ranman5501]

@@MarkKoekenbakkerour house are made of high fructose corn syrup 😢

[@kevinjamiesonbelou]

Yes but how is that ironic?

[@RobertJLessard]

When your dad is a concrete guy and you ask for a fort... Lol

[@pibblesnbits]

This guy ain't no rookie and made it look way too easy!

[@DavidJones-smiley]

He is no stranger to the Rain! Well done Well done.

[@savageredbeard]

I was going to build a storm shelter/storage shed and I think I'm going to use your technique. This is pretty neat awesome. I will likely make it half this size but this seems very close the FEMA guidelines.

[@Odd-Lots]

That's great! You might look into using ICF forms instead of block. They are foam forms that you can just pump concrete into. It's a little more expensive but will save you a lot of time. If I do this again, I will be using them instead of block.

[@PRC533]

@@Odd-Lots Those systems are great, but they still require the same amount of bracing that a wood form does so it ends up being close to the same amount of work.

[@kirankishore9934]

@@Odd-Lots I can closely relate to this video. Loved it.

[@kirankishore9934]

@@PRC533Wouldn’t we save time doing ICF walls?

[@Odd-Lots]

@@kirankishore9934 Thanks!

[@davidmurray9844]

The craftsmanship was outstanding. Thank you for sharing. God Bless.

[@ivyking4149]

This video is a showcase of years and years of experience as a constructionworker. This is how solid houses are built. For the size of this project this house is over-built

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks. Yeah, its overbuilt:-)

[@beachthor1]

Never ceased to be amazed how ppl spend their time and money

[@coinbutton1]

Love the roof. I watched it done in Puerto Rico and they would run water of the concrete for a week to make it cure slower. They said it would help make it water proof.

[@Odd-Lots]

I have limited concrete experience. That's cool, though. I think continually wetting the concrete while it cures also keeps it from cracking and helps it dry harder. Thanks for checking out the video:-)

[@erroneous6947]

I’m a geologist who worked in a geotechnical lab just out of college. Approximately one month of moisture is optimal for non quick cure. We had a mist room just for concrete test cylinders. Which I got to crack on a hydraulic press.

[@Odd-Lots]

@@erroneous6947 This is good to know. Thanks!

[@winowmak3r]

The last shot of the concrete steaming as it sets. That's pretty cool! Not many realize it's an exothermic reaction and can create *a lot* of heat while it cures!

[@Odd-Lots]

Yeah! It's pretty wild to pour concrete when it's cool out and then feel the heat radiating from it.

[@rogerdale5451]

That is the most beautiful man made cube I've ever seen! Fantastic. (Seriously)... Mr. Lots, ... NEXT!!

[@Odd-Lots]

I'm not quite sure what to make of that comment? I'm assuming you're insulting me? I live in a very wet area and have to build a waterproof concrete box as the "bones" of the Hobbit Hole in order to support the 80,000 pounds of wet dirt it will be buried under. If you watch newer videos, I've installed some round Hobbit windows and the round door frame. I do know that Hobbit Holes are curved and not cubed:-)

[@HobbitTerra]

It's so cool to see how carefully you do everything. Respect

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks! Are you able to continue building your Hobbit Hole with the war happening?

[@HobbitTerra]

@@Odd-Lots well, technically I could keep building the project - our location is about 100+ km away from war, my family is ok, we did not suffer materially from the war, I still have job and income... But because of all these terrible things in my country, this year was no mood and inspiration to continue my hobbit project, didn't build anything related to the hole. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@HobbitTerra]

But next year I will ! 🤠

[@Odd-Lots]

@@HobbitTerra I'm glad your family is okay:-) Putin is a fool. Most politicians are, including here in the states, he just takes it to a whole different level of evil though.

[@Odd-Lots]

@@HobbitTerra Good!

[@mikecoffin820]

Dude has a few tricks up his sleeve. I love all the little steps to remove errors; excellently executed.

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks:-)

[@FiscalWoofer]

I’m in process of digging foundation… if only my soil was that easy to cut, it’s full of rock and sometimes solid rock. Taking inspiration for this that I’ll get there someday. ❤

[@Odd-Lots]

Keep going! You'll get there!

[@tuckt6180]

GREATEST SOLID HOUSE BUILD EVER !

[@PyroX676]

This is my dream to have my own property one day and build my own hidey holes. I'm a tough manual laborer but do not have these sorts of skills. Hopefully one day they will be invaluable in my homestead but for now they're great entertainment.

[@Odd-Lots]

I hope you get to as well! I was also a laborer for years. At one point, I was working 3 jobs to save money for my family. I did building maintenance during the day, served food at a restaurant in the evening, and did custodial at night. Eventually, I was able to start my own business. Keep working hard, and I hope you will be able to accomplish your dreams:-)

[@GlimpseInParadise]

I was following along until that tie beam up top. Great work.

[@JoaoPaulo-kc5is]

RESPECT FOR THE GOOD WORK!!

[@Odd-Lots]

Than you

[@brucemarmy8500]

Thank you for showing how to deal with corrections in concrete.

[@Odd-Lots]

You're welcome:-)

[@Ophanim1000]

Brilliant work!

[@EddieOakes]

Man, your skill set is so impressive! Subbed!

[@Odd-Lots]

I have made quite a few mistakes, but thanks so much!

[@ValentinZhunda]

Все сделано чётко по технологии строительства каменных домов. У нас в Сибири строют также.

[@puravidadew7031]

I wish I had half your skill. Very nice work.

[@ralphnewcomejr]

Nice work! Nice to see someone who understands reinforcement of concrete.Ive got the same worm-drive circ saw too...👍

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks!

[@ErnestoFernandez-gq3fp]

Wow..!! I will work with you at any time..!!

[@ioannisplatikostas9676]

Master builder!! Incredible work..

[@calvinbarajas5144]

You're an amazing craftsman!

[@Odd-Lots]

Thank you:-)

[@leooladimu6545]

Great video, great hut, totally inspired. 🤘🏽

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks!

[@Ichabod_Jericho]

Cement roof + a lil grass on top = complete and total silence during rain fall

[@loghomebuilder407]

This is a very high-quality video for an extremely well-done job.

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks:-)

[@emeraldfox7175]

Excellent craftsmanship! Got a new subscriber!

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks!

[@mdddaq6]

👍🏴‍☠️. 35 years as a Mason and I will say “Doesn’t get any better than that!

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks, so much!

[@johntillotson4254]

Thx for sharing ❤

[@cho4d]

this is an outrageously strong concrete box! i think you could park a truck on top no worries :D

[@Odd-Lots]

Lol. Yeah! I'm going to park a ton of dirt on top of it instead.

[@MyLevelheaded]

at the outset before footers are poured place some rigid pipes and a manifold that will go out a single chimney in the back then near the front entrance build a fire box the smoke and eat will channel under the build to the chimney so one fire a day will heat the entire structure...

[@user-gn5dy4cm6v]

Beast mode. Well we’ll done

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks!

[@christiansorensen7567]

Very nice Precious; very nice indeed.

[@Trollioli]

Very geometric and square for a hobbit hole.

[@Odd-Lots]

The blocks are just the "bones." If you watch newer videos, it looks like a Hobbit Hole:-)

[@Not_Evil_]

Trying to learn concrete building, your vid helps a lot

[@Odd-Lots]

Great!

[@Nick-of8zo]

Who knew Tobias Funke would be so handy

[@Dean-k2n]

That is a bunker, not a hobbit hole. ......................... EXCELLENT construction!

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks. Check out a newer video. It is starting to look like a Hobbit Hole:-)

[@just_russ4633]

Very detailed and well engineered. I am building a bunker and your video is very helpful. Cheers.

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks, and good luck with your project!

[@РоманАнатолійович]

Very accurate man, I like your work!

[@Odd-Lots]

Thank you!

[@NeaonBHB]

Ahh the time honored hobbit building technique of cinder blocks, concrete and rebar.

[@Odd-Lots]

I live in a very wet area. If I did not make the "bones" of the structure out of concrete and rebar, the whole thing would collapse under the 80,000 pounds of wet dirt it's going be buried under. And before it collapsed, it would be a wet, moldy mess. If you watch newer videos, it is starting to look like a Hobbit Hole. None of the cinder blocks will be visible when I'm done:-)

[@paraelwares]

The way you show how you make the roof. Great. Subscribed and Commented. Thanks. 😀

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks! I just posted the video of the fireplace build, if you are interested. Thanks again:-)

[@spoke1183]

Also could fill those Block walls with rocks and sand for more insulation.

[@medavis]

caps on the end of the vertical rebar... OSHA approved!

[@Odd-Lots]

Yeah, I was worried about impaling one of my kids.

[@mikeevansgutierrezcasanas6234]

Man, are you trying to survive a nuclear blast... 😆😆😆 I'm absolutely impressed on this project. 👏

[@GraalElk]

aaaaaaah ive been waiting so long to see the roof cure xd and the relieve that the support below kept bearing the load

[@chriszablocki2460]

Some guys just have it figured out.

[@Scapestoat]

09:24 You should make some sawhorses! Keeps your fingers safer, and they're so much nicer on the back and joints. :)

[@nobleenchantpbkc8082]

i like how you built this.i learned a few tricks

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks:-)

[@Wasteabuse]

This video makes the job look a lot less like a PITA than it probably was

[@Odd-Lots]

Correct

[@cinemaipswich4636]

It's built like an ammo magazine, that used to be located near big gun emplacement during WW2.

[@BrucePotter]

nice block work

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks!

[@a.p.369]

It's solid like a german bunker from ww2.

[@tyalikanky]

I am not sure that Hobbits were advanced enough to use concrete.

[@videogames7032]

im sitting here holding my breath while he pours the concreate xD

[@ruicastro8230]

Thank you for inviting all to see your great work . Question is it not necessary to put up columns at least on the corners? It’s very rare I see any columns with walls made with cinder blocks

[@Odd-Lots]

Hi Rui, Thanks for watching! Supporting columns are necessary on longer and taller walls to keep them from tipping. These walls are shorter and supported from tipping by being tied into each other at perpendicular angles. I also filled all the cells of the block with concrete and rebar that is tied into the foundation.

[@crazydolphin33]

This guy's good. I wonder how large you could scale up a building like this before structural integrity is compromised.

[@Anton_Sinitsyn]

Всё по феншую, даже колпачки на концах арматуры, виден профессионализм строителя.

[@manuelr1405]

Solid like a bomb shelter🙂

[@Emilthehun]

Almost perfect! The roof concrete shouldn't be even with walls. It should stick out about 6 inches

[@Odd-Lots]

Yes. This build is a little different. I'm covering the roof with dirt and growing grass over it. I've added in an overhang in a newer video. Thanks for watching!

[@Emilthehun]

@@Odd-Lots that's awesome I can5 wait to see it. This little bunker will be here for hundreds of years to come

[@oakld]

I'm impressed. One of the few videos, where the job is done right! 👍 The Devil is often in the detail. And I learned few tricks :-). Nice to see, that I'm not the only one trying to stick to good building practices (I'm only DYI at home and tiny ranch). I just wonder, if that thin film underneath the foundation works as a radon protection...?

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks! It's is a vapor barrier to keep moisture out of the slab. It will help with radon a bit but is not sufficient for that purpose.

[@oakld]

@@Odd-Lots Thank you for clarifying, that's what I thought. Again, great job 👍

[@gustyattaway6419]

well done

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks:-)

[@mobious6340]

mad skills

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks.

[@ThePerpetualStudent]

interesting how you poured your footing and your floor in one. I have never seen in done that way. Is there a reason as to why?

[@InsideLookingOut1]

Only whats necessary ❤ ?

[@kirankishore9934]

We are in a zone 3 state, and I see most of the slab foundations like that in our area. Try searching for slab on grade foundation if you want more information.

[@bobh9492]

Fantastic work.

[@Odd-Lots]

Thank you.

[@jonathanmolina3529]

I've noticed that in the US they don't do columns to make the structure stronger. Here in Puerto Rico we make a solid column in every corner

[@Odd-Lots]

We do, but because this building is so small and also because I filled all the blocks with concrete, they weren't needed. If the walls had been longer before they tied into a perpendicular wall, I would have needed supporting columns. Thanks for checking out the video:-)

[@jonathanmolina3529]

@@Odd-Lots Ok, cool. How much did it cost to make that build approximately?

[@brianvannorman1465]

Nifty.

[@ahndajong]

Nice work!

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks!

[@NewsChannel-y4g]

in what way does this resemble a hobbit hole? Is it getting covered on outside?

[@Odd-Lots]

Yes. If you watch newer videos, it is starting to look like a Hobbit Hole. The concrete is just the "bones".

[@nicolasbureau108]

Très beau travail. Bravo

[@patricksanti3185]

outstanding

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks.

[@zedricgerardo289]

A tough house honestly

[@paulgeorge150]

Funny how they wheeled burrowed the soil down the path, yet they could a concrete pump to do the slab. Lol

[@Odd-Lots]

That was actually crushed rock that we brought down the hill:-) Concrete can be pumped up to 300 ft. But other than using a wheelbarrow or heavy machinery, I don't know how I would have gotten the rock down to the sight. I'm open to suggestions:-)

[@lovesdoggies1481]

This is exactly what I want and them put stone outside and wood like stone log cabin .

[@catecalvertarriola3986]

Okay, what's so great about a sturdy square concrete box?

[@Odd-Lots]

Nothing, I suppose. Unless you like sturdy, square concrete boxes;-)

[@glennirwin4710]

Now, that is a nice build!!

[@Odd-Lots]

Thank you.

[@jorgeguanche5327]

Im a construction worker from spain.....and im still thinking why in the name of jesus did you made a SOLID concrete roof.

[@Odd-Lots]

Because it is going to be buried under 80,000 pounds of dirt, and that's what the structural engineer spect out to support the load.

[@jorgeguanche5327]

@@Odd-Lots now makes sensei!. Thanks for the asnwer 😁

[@Odd-Lots]

@@jorgeguanche5327 Thanks for checking out the video:-)

[@MrResale]

do you know where i can buy these home plans? I'm trying to build the same but a little less fancy

[@Odd-Lots]

Unfortunately, there aren't any plans. I'm building it like a sculpture and just making things up as I go.

[@paseoenmotouy]

Congratulation 🎉

[@kojotv3461]

I'm planning to build something similar in my garden, any advice about how to deal with humidity ? I was thinking of placing a french drain

[@Odd-Lots]

Moisture mitigation measures really vary by region. You should chat with a local building professional. Good luck with your project!

[@bradzdanivsky]

bomb shelter grade bro, nice work!

[@Odd-Lots]

Thanks, man!

[@ConcreteLand]

When you are laying the mortar at 6:26. Is there a reason you don’t put any along the short span of the blocks? Is it unnecessary?

[@Odd-Lots]

Yes, exactly:-)

[@Bradley-b1h]

Not hobbits...elite architecture

[@Bradley-b1h]

Try elite architecture theme

[@thomaspryor8202]

I have seen prisons with less reinforcement. I'm surprised you didn't do a monolithic pour.

[@Odd-Lots]

I suppose. It's going to be buried under roughly 80,000 pounds of dirt. The reinforcement was spect out by an engineer.

[@MarceloAlmeida1]

Your tiny bunker would remain even facing a nuclear blast! Lol

[@Odd-Lots]

😂. Well, let's hope it doesn't ever need to.

[@paoemantega8793]

How much time did you spend doing this project please ?

[@FrankJordans]

Strong, but no hobbit would built with so much concrete.

[@Odd-Lots]

Yes, you are right. You won't see any of the concrete when it's done, though. I have a newer video where I build a fireplace. That's more of what the aesthetic will be when it's finished:-)

[@williamfields8452]

how did you know how far to space the vertical rebar before pouring your floor, as to not get in your own way with the cinder blocks? Or is it just multiples of 8; like your corner?

[@Odd-Lots]

Yep, multiples of 8 that I marked out on the forms. I think a few ended up in the wrong spot. I had to cut them off, then drill and epoxy them in the correct position.

[@yayitsjake]

Honest question, would it have been easier and stronger to pour the lintel one piece across the door and wondow?

[@Odd-Lots]

Hey Jake, It would have been stronger but probably not easier because it would have taken more work to build the larger form. Plus, lifting 5 gallon buckets of concrete to fill the space in the larger form is less appealing to me than laying block:-)

[@yayitsjake]

@@Odd-Lots gotta build up those shoulder muscles to lift the 5 gallon buckets of concrete 🤣🤣🤣 Thanks for the answer!

[@cheebug]

Cool!

[@dappa211]

could ytou have bent the rebars above the door and window and as one piece and sent them down into the block hole instead of tying them unto the pieces that came up from the block

[@Odd-Lots]

Yes.

[@-RyN-23]

Love it