How and Why I'm Building a Wood Foundation and Basement for My Off-grid Log Cabin

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[@michelerucker3755]

This is not boring to us, we love it, hoping Cali is doing well

[@ROHITSINGH-qf4dg]

Yes

[@ardentenquirer8573]

I disagree with you it is not boring... I think a video once a month telling us your thinking on the cabin build/greenhouse/roots cellar/ heating/ power and milling is a good idea ... don't worry about repeating some things or changing your ideas as you move forward ... I like the little details and by repeat them I learn I seen the sand point but how is it working in the greenhouse? Your beams and floor joist I am not sure I understand? Your basement make sense to me now... I wonder about the longevity the theory make sense but nature seems to have its own theory. I have also seen burn stumps in the forest ... never thought about it till you mention it those are the details that are priceless

[@bettymason4366]

Love to see all your work , hopefully Cali okay

[@iguardian1]

Trust us, Shawn. It's never boring 😀

[@marilynreichenbach9220]

Exactly! Always a great video.

[@Blazen747]

😃

[@billierenshaw3302]

Nothing about your videos are “boring “ you are truly amazing …don’t you forget it 🥰🥰

[@susanalbone5101]

Glad that Cali is okay, my heart was in my mouth. She’s such a part of your life and I felt your anxiety. Well done on the underground storage build. The cabin is going to look great. Thank you for all your videos on both channels. I live your life with you. Dorset, Uk

[@gailferraiolo1476]

Thank you for posting that Cali is ok! I felt the same way, wouldnt be able to sleep if anything happened! Love you guys so much! God Bless!

[@Brianj69]

I’m glad Callie is okay..

[@peterhennig4678]

I thought she either ate poisonous berries or got stung by hornet in the throat or mouth

[@h.a.schmid3002]

We used a large wet towel to cool our Rottweiler in high temperatures. He didn't like swimming or being splashed with water. Good luck to you & Calli! And "wow"! All your buildings become fantastic! Thxs for showing to us!

[@barbarabowman3328]

Perhaps Cali would be cooler if her fur is clipped shorter and fresh water kept nearby as Shawn works. She is such a beautiful and sweet dog.

[@bobbynash282]

All our prayers be with you and cali.

[@kryptotrader4699]

praying dont help, you pray only to your self.sorry :)

[@cindygoblirsch9438]

Hope Cali is recovering well. So scary to have a pet succumb to the humid heat. Your Channel is SO interesting! Thank you for sharing your experiences of this journey. Looking forward to seeing your wife be able to join you when the time is right for her. God Bless!

[@tameradavis4973]

Shawn, I'm so glad, Cali is feeling better. I wanted to cry when, you said, she had collapsed. I have really enjoyed, watching your videos. I love the great outdoor's but, I can get out to enjoy it, like I used to. So, it is great to watch your adventure's and, the beautiful scenery. Thank's for sharing. Love and, GOD bless you and, your family alway's. From Texas.❤🦋🌅

[@crazywilly85]

Charred wood is incredibly resistent to rot. Archaeologists have found on some viking settlements still had wood poles still in the ground from 1000 years ago. Can`t remember if it was here in Norway or Denmark, think it was Denmark. Hope Cali is doing better. Cheers.

[@whitewitch32]

Biskupin is settlement dated 747-748 BC

[@PavlovsBob]

Yes, it isn't actually a Japanese technique, though the Japanese do use it. Crediting the Japanese is a relatively recent trend. Scandinavians have used it for thousands of years. I would think other cultures figured it out too. Hard not to notice, as Shawn did, that charred wood remained untouched by insects, fungus and rot relative to uncharred wood. Only natural to make use of the phenomenon.

[@rathaventerriniel8162]

@@PavlovsBob I would suspect that tech like this would have been used throughout the known world. If I am not mistaken archaeologists in England have discovered a bridge built by Romans to have the same charred pylons in it's creation whether it was a tradition learned from the Scandinavians is quite intriguing.

[@nickma71]

No doubt. Covering in pitch is said to work too.

[@crazywilly85]

@@rathaventerriniel8162 My guess is that is probably discovered multiple times all over the world. At least where they used wood as materials for construction.

[@hexhex7220]

Guess almost 2 million subscribers like " boring" . I kinda look at it as my "ZEN" time. Grateful for all your work in sharing with us

[@dougzirkle5951]

I’m sure you’ve already thought of it, but we had a dog that suffered with the heat & humidity, too, and we clipped her hair short for the summer months. My heart was in my throat watching you two. Glad she’s better for now.

[@margreetanceaux3906]

Long-haired German Shepherd. In late June I had her ‘shaved’, that is they cut the coat as long as possible with shaving, about 1 inch long. That was especially beneficial for a thorough undercoat removal = sorry, I didn’t mean ‘removal’, but ‘cleanup’.

[@jamesb5688]

You should never clip a retrievers coat. It's double layer helps regulate their body temperature, along with excess heat being released through their paws and mouth. Clipping increases the risk of them being sunburnt and overheating.

[@joellenbroetzmann9053]

Good to know. I was even thinking it might be combo shock. When she swims, the blood vessels and heart all constrict pretty quickly, then when she gets back out they start dilating. Maybe the dilation of the outer vessels is trying to pump through the inner ones that are still not quite dilated. I'm not a veterinarian. But they say that constriction in a warm body is sometimes why men shoveling have heart attacks.

[@Roheryn100]

@@jamesb5688 it sounds counter-productive, but that is what we were told ages ago with our long coated Saint Bernard. The vet told us it was actually insulation that helped keep him cool.

[@LeutnantJoker]

@@Roheryn100 Agreed. And it's not like bare skin would help a dog anyway. They cannot sweat. Their skin is not built for heat regulation like ours. In bare sun even WE put clothing on to protect ourselves. We do it with white clothing, and dogs have fur that helps keep the heat out. It's not like it's healthy for us to stand in the middle of the noon sun with no clothes on.

[@martyevans8162]

Shawn you are like a one man equivalent of a work team of five guys! The level of your productivity, strength & creative approaches to getting things done is awesome. Re: Cali / she has played/run harder in hotter weather & is a young dog. Would encourage getting some blood tests done & probably some x-rays of head/chest/abdominal area. Love your channels.

[@glynnoster1131]

i've been told I do the work of three men...Moe, Larry and Curly

[@dridleyroberts]

Can see all that you’ve learned in the last build translated into this build. I’m so glad Cali is doing well. My heart sank when I saw the title, of your other video and I quickly fast forwarded to learn her status. Good job Shawn on the build and caring for our girl!

[@brucestewart2863]

I don't find any of your videos boring, I find what you are doing fascinating. I'm so glad Callie is okay. Keep up the great work

[@maggiesue4825]

I'm not bored at all! I'm enjoying seeing everything coming along at its own pace. You're right - summer is for work, but it's to enjoy as well!

[@rogerrodgersen7702]

Great to hear Cali is OK, Thanks for your great contributions. 👍👍👍👍👍

[@uhaneokalanijames8029]

it is never boring no matter what you have filmed for the day/week. glad cali is doing better. thank you for sharing your homestead adventures with all of us. hope you enjoyed your time on fathers day with your beautiful family.

[@tammaragill9347]

The cabin is shaping up nicely. I can hardly wait to see the next phase. I'm also happy Cali is doing well 😊

[@firstname6826]

Far from being boring. I wouldn't mind seeing every nail driven or every cut made. Every time I see progress made that you weren't able to film I feel like I've missed something, not complaining, I appreciate every video you make.

[@mscharylee]

Shawn, nothing you do is boring. Bless you for all you do to take us away from what is going on in the world today.

[@thizizliz]

Goodness! It is fun to see all the Cali love in the comments. She is a lucky pup. Good idea to fit a little more playtime into your work schedule.

[@Dr.Gunsmith]

Absolutely credit to humanity, you inspire and help so many on so many levels in so many ways.

[@JDK45ACP]

Glad Callie is okay. It’s kinda funny, while waiting for your videos to publish each week, I find myself watching other channels where people build or are building cabins. There’s just no substitute for the real deal. Thanks for sharing.

[@randybourdon2791]

Building this wood foundation isn’t boring Shawn! I’m really enjoying this. The cabin is going to be great!

[@firemanforever3000]

You’re truly a genius with your builds. You have taught us a lot and you have taught us very well. We all hope that Cali is doing well.

[@billpennington3951]

Glad Cali’s is doing ok. Love the video. Thanks for sharing.

[@scottyj8500]

It’s definitely not boring, I’ve been around your channel for awhile and it never gets old!!

[@straubdavid9]

Happy to see that Cali is back to her old self (with a few restrictions I'm sure). She is the glue that makes your life that much better. Because we were able to follow your previous cabin build, the excitement to see what changes you make on this homestead will be just that more interesting. Take care ... have a nice weekend.

[@ianmayer2951]

Being lost and alone in the woods with this guy in a survival situation I wouldn't be the slightest bit worried. I just love watching his videos. So soothing and inspiring. I see a bad future coming and survival is gonna become a reality. I just wish I had a friend like Shawn James.

[@JesseGonzalez8]

Thanks for your comment, will introduce you to something quite different and profitable. W.H.A,-SA-AP +1. = 2. = 0.= 5. =6=. 7.. =7. =8. 0. =5. {2.

[@jasoncook9898]

Not boring, most stressful thing all day watching back to back with the other channel and Cali, glad she is better.

[@kinsleykhoo48]

NOT boring mate!!! everything you've done and are doing has been for our entertainment and enjoyment of watching what you build/live...every bit has been awesome!! Hope Cali is better and doing well.

[@Azzanakos]

I prefer these type of videos with your commentary.

[@smittyhabs]

They don’t build a man like you anymore. Your absolutely what god had in mind. Peace always with you and yours.

[@jd2055]

Your videos are the furthest thing from boring as I enjoy hearing your plans which have also answered a few questions. A big thumbs up for this channel always great to hear your perspective on things. Thanks Again

[@markrtoffeeman]

Delighted to see you put an IBC water storage in the basement, Shawn. Also thermal mass to keep basement temperature constant. All coming together well. Glad Cali is OK. Need to make sure she's got free access to water. Working dogs like her don't know when to stop. Plus get her plenty of swimming breaks. Anyway. Good to see you guys. Plus the ace coming along.

[@Kathy_Is_Blessed]

Thanks for this update Shawn! Praying Cali feels better and better every hour. 🙏🧡

[@patriciabarnes7034]

Shawn, nothing you do is boring. Every bit is eagerly devored and enjoyed. We love both channels. So pleased to hear that Cali is doing good. Stay safe both of you, and out of the sun. UK.

[@JesseGonzalez8]

Thanks for your comment, will introduce you to something quite different and profitable. W.H.A,-SA-AP +1. = 2. = 0.= 5. =6=. 7. =7. =8. 0.. =5. {2.

[@terripennington9881]

You are never boring . I enjoy your videos very much. Ive been a subscriber for about three years now and i try not to miss any of them. You are jack of all trades. You can build and do anything you want with those hands of yours. Dont let anyone put you down. Yo uh have been blessed my friend to be able to do the things you do for yourself and your family. Thanks very much for the video.Stay Safe.

[@Jason_xofilos]

It is great that Cali is ok and recovered. Not boring. Building the foundations takes a while especially burning boards and posts, planning for water and batteries. Take care. 👍😎

[@mikeowens3164]

Never Boring Shawn We love Cali

[@marthaturki2262]

So good to see Calli wagging her tail!💕💕💕

[@101life9]

The design of the cabin is looking better and more convenient and accessible in all weather conditions. Awesome great job. Love the new property.

[@rajinevin7273]

Soooooooooooooooooooooooo happy Cali is okay!!!!!!!! My heart stopped... for a minute.

[@justanotherperson584]

This is not boring. I understand what and why your doing a basement.Definitely. Bless your hands. Your place will be much warmer and bigger (which is always a good thing.) Being up higher is also good, that way you can look over everything.....a bird’s eye view. I hope Cali is well, she is precious. Bless the both of you.

[@adbc8213]

I am 69 and I don’t know if I will ever have the opportunity to use what I have learned from your videos but if I do….!!!! I love these videos, Thank You. 🌀♥️🌀

[@donelbaron]

probably you will not

[@adbc8213]

@@donelbaron You just never know ….

[@deborahpellerito6117]

69 is young

[@MarcvanExel]

Not boring at all, I love each and every step!

[@trishacline5531]

Thank you Shawn for sharing the depth and breadth of your knowledge with us. You never fail to teach me something new with each new “story time” Am continuing to pray that Cali is doing well and that she has not experienced any further symptoms from her heat stroke episode. Blessings to you and yours for continued good health and happiness.

[@PavlovsBob]

There's nothing boring about this phase of the build it any other. It's awesome. I like your plan. It's looking great!

[@verahinnant8021]

This is not boring. I enjoy all of it. I think its amazing watching all you do.

[@sandrahoglan7452]

Thank you for update on Cali. Was worried about her. Love your channel.

[@MagdaRantanplan]

I find your process super interesting, even if it is "just" the basement. All good houses start with a solid foundation. I took part in several archeological digs in the middle of germany. One of them was a bronze age settlement. We discovered a well build with logs that where all burned like that. Carbon dating put them to about 2000 BC. They where so well preserved they survived over 4000 years in moist clay soil.

[@haydengroves317]

Fascinating! How’d you end up doing that?

[@ardentenquirer8573]

Thanks your insight I have seen wells build with logs too but not that old ...I wonder how the logs lasted

[@donaldjaggers3255]

Its not boring at all, it's really a learning exercise.

[@jan6293]

Shawn, you’re wise to take it easy with the heat , great job on the timber’s!👍

[@martybartfast1]

A Man with a Plan, and the biceps to execute it. Fantastic work, intelligent approach, best of luck. m

[@dragonslayer7587]

I've learned so much for my own build watching YOU build both places, and my weather isn't nearly as extreme! I'm looking forward to the day I can begin my build! However, since I keep learning more and more, NOTHING you do is boring to me!! Thank you again for bringing us all along!

[@annmac9478]

I'm so amazed how much you know and keep learning about living off the Grid. Thanks for always sharing your knowledge and progress!👍🤗....Give Cali hugs from Murray Kentucky!🥰

[@francesc1331]

I don't find it boring. I find it fascinating - all the considerations. Planning ahead is where it's at.

[@JesseGonzalez8]

Thanks for your comment, will introduce you to something quite different and profitable. W.H.A,-SA-AP +1. = 2. = 0.= 5. =6=. 7. =7. =8.. 0. =5. {2.

[@darthdebby]

Great plans Shawn. Give Cali and hug and kiss.

[@Gardendreamsforme]

Not boring in the least to me. I learn so much watching your channels

[@ricktoole9991]

Ok, two things. I'm real happy your dog is ok , my wife and I are huge animal fans .I guess I forgot second point ??? Really enjoy your channel

[@valeriaclemente7395]

Oi

[@Who.is.Clinton]

Hi Shawn, not to worry mate, your channel is never boring. It is fascinating.

[@michaelturley5156]

It’s never boring watch you work. Thanks for what you do.

[@Ddrhl]

Glad you aren't pushing. Hope you take some time for you and your family. Enjoy your surroundings. They're beautiful!

[@jamesfleming6773]

I love how you think of everything and do it in order, that cellar will be a very welcome addition. Your family must be so proud of you.👍🇬🇧

[@JesseGonzalez8]

Thanks for your comment, will introduce you to something quite different and profitable. W.H.A,-SA-AP +1. = 2. = 0.= 5. =6=. 7. =7. =8. 0. =5. {2.

[@jeanhawken4482]

None of your work is boring. Really enjoyable

[@carolynjoiner1602]

Never boring. Enjoy the summer when you can with your family and Cali when you can, we will be watching when you are ready for us. Thank you for sharing your family's journey.

[@marvinmartian7941]

As Michelle said ... not boring ... we enjoy watching your progress

[@donnahill134]

Hope Cali is feeling better. More SWIMMING, less work!! ❤️🐕❤️

[@Free_Moonshadow]

Don't apologise for getting the core of the build, the foundations, absolutely on point ! - thanks for the content, am enjoying both your channels x from the UK

[@edk4590]

Never boring Shawn.Keep Cali safe.

[@flashmore3]

Exceptional, you look really well and sound happy, for good reason. Glad blondie is okay too.

[@murrayandru7527]

Have a Super weekend Mr. James , Keep Hydrated , Hot stuff coming .... Thanks for sharing as Always. Take care.

[@triciasklodowske5653]

Never boring !! You are a work force. Don't know of any one that could keep up with you. Be careful. God bless

[@sergiovalenti7255]

We’re almost finished with a 12x15 shed that I built with my girls in our backyard. You’re an inspiration to us.

[@JesseGonzalez8]

,Thank you for watching.for questions, guidance, and support anytime Just DM +1.( 2 .0.5. ) .6..7.. 7 .8. .0. 5 .2. @ W H A T S A P P

[@cynthia9144]

You are having so many things done to this place...I like all the ideas that you have and are going to do...like the idea about root cellar being in basement of the house... Shawn are you hoping to get all the house closed in by winter? Hope Cali is doing well...give Cali hug for me...thank you for videoing as you go.... It's never boring... Keep safe 🤗

[@corinnetonelli489]

Nothing you show us on your videos is boring, very well explained and appreciate every video you do. My heart was in my mouth too when Cali collapsed, you did the right thing by cooling her down and putting the air conditioning on in the truck.Would she drink if you left a bowl of water around... I know she’s in the lake etc... Also thought of clipping her fur especially as she’s not moulded ... Also rehydration sachets in her water ... All the best , hope you both have a good week..

[@ginnicolee2502]

Not boring at all! It's exciting because it is all progress. Love you Cali

[@chrisblack8390]

Good job on the basement. Can't wait to see the meat closet. Sounds interesting. So sorry Cali got sick. I never heard of a dog getting heat stroke. Thank you

[@mjadams8070]

Cali's collapsing was a scarey moment. So glad she came out of it. Blessing on both of you as work on your projects.

[@JesseGonzalez8]

,Thank you for watching.for questions, guidance, and support anytime Just DM +1.( 2 .0.5. ) .6..7.. 7 .8. .0. 5 .2. @ W H A T S A P P

[@MNsportsman]

I love every video. It's fun seeing the entire build, even the "boring stuff".

[@genefoust5569]

Thanks for putting 2 in videos up we was worried Hope she is OK🙏🐕🇺🇸

[@lynbrown4054]

This is not boring! Find it very interesting and you explaining what your going to do helps us follow what your next project is going to be.

[@kathyl5610]

I hate to contradict you but I’m going to. Your channel is never boring, neither channel is ever boring. I enjoy every minute of both channels and always fine but I’m learning something and always enjoying. Thanks for all you do. Take care, stay safe.

[@marieswann3204]

Wishing Cali well.

[@debbieellis5074]

Thanks, Shawn. I was wondering about the height of the cellar walls, and you answered that. This is interesting. So glad Calli is recovering. God bless.

[@jeanettec6212]

I love everything you share with us. It will be amazing. I was sad about Cali, but you took good care of her. You say its taking you so long??? You get more done then anyone I know. I hope you and Cali both are safe always! Sending hugs to you and your family.

[@JesseGonzalez8]

,Thank you for watching.for questions, guidance, and support anytime Just DM +1.( 2 .0.5. ) .6..7.. 7 .8. .0. 5 .2. @ W H A T S A P P

[@young-soonkim6730]

Good Friday Shawn & Cali! I just saw a video of a old Korean traditional house. The third generation is living there at present. The pillars, they put a stone underneath which was cut so that the pillar will fit on top. Before, they put the wooden pillar they put the "salt and alum powder" to keep the bugs away. I don't think they use the burnt wood finish. I have seen 100 years old furniture. The wooden furniture was charcoal lightly four times and sand it down four times.

[@kristyjones7657]

I love that you have this channel to explain everything that you do! I love your My Self Reliance channel too, but there has been many times when I wondered what you were doing. I wanted to tell you that the lady on Simple Living Alaska stored her potatoes in a been with wood shavings in her cellar the first year the were in Alaska, and they stayed firm & lasted really good! God bless!🙏🏼🕊💙

[@trudyschaffer8016]

I doubt too many of us see anything you do BORING… I learn something every video I see. 🌲🐾

[@JesseGonzalez8]

,Thank you for watching.for questions, guidance, and support anytime Just DM +1.( 2 .0.5. ) .6..7.. 7 .8. .0. 5 .2. @ W H A T S A P P

[@j.k4825]

I actually like the technical parts and explanations of the techniques you use to build your cabins the most. Well not the most, but it comes right after the Cali footage.

[@JesseGonzalez8]

,Thank you for watching.for questions, guidance, and support anytime Just DM +1.( 2 .0.5. ) .6..7.. 7 .8. .0. 5 .2. @ W H A T S A P P

[@ianmacrae4963]

This was actually interesting to better understand the thinking behind the new cabin build. Thanks Shawn and wishing Cali well.

[@UncleBud83]

I feel ya Shawn. I’ve been doing similar work since April. Preserving every stick like that takes time for sure. When I finally install my timbers I often think “last time I’ll handle this piece” after 6-8 other times it got moved around. You’re doing great work! Best of luck in 2021

[@JesseGonzalez8]

Thanks for your comment, will introduce you to something quite different and profitable. W.H.A,-SA-AP +1. = 2. = 0.= 5. =6=. 7. =7. =8 . 0. =5. {2.

[@UncleBud83]

@@JesseGonzalez8 sorry Shawn ya lost me there. All I see is a sequence of numbers and letters. Am I missing something? Thanks again!

[@papajoe6254]

Hope Cali's doing well

[@corretgerannie1779]

Que devient Cali il ou elle nous manque dans le paysage son maître est-il reparti chez lui

[@corretgerannie1779]

Ou continu t’il de nous éblouir

[@sonicclang]

Not boring at all, Shawn. I find this portion of the build fascinating. Not only because I love building stuff myself, but I'm also interested to see how the cabin comes together on top of this portion. The last cabin was right on the ground, with very little storage under the floor boards. I think this is going to be really nice.

[@paulbendikkjama3975]

This is NOT boring, its very interesting to watch!

[@JesseGonzalez8]

Thanks for your comment, will introduce you to something quite different and profitable. W.H.A,-SA-AP +1. = 2. = 0.= 5. =6=. 7.. =7. =8. 0. =5. {2.

[@suzypawlicki3767]

Always love listening to Shawn. Inspired me to do more to purifying my life of less government.

[@yvonnemcmahan9037]

You are never boring. Thank you for explaining about charing the boards.

[@JesseGonzalez8]

Thanks for your comment, will introduce you to something quite different and profitable. W.H.A,-SA-AP +1. = 2. = 0.= 5. =6=. 7. =7. =8.. 0. =5. {2.

[@yvonnemcmahan9037]

@@JesseGonzalez8 Thank you for taking the time to educate me. I so enjoy everything you teach.

[@NetTopsey]

And as a follow up to my comment on your other channel, I think it's a great idea to take it easier and get out on and around the water with Cali on the really hot days. I know I'd feel pretty crappy if it were 30 degrees and the only way I could get rid of heat was through my tongue and the soles of my palms! I'm glad Cali is ok. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheVikingmaiden]

You're a genius. I'm so amazed you're building this yourself and such design/plans you have. Incredible.

[@angelitaabrematea3013]

Always excited to watch waiting for the accomplishment of project. I like Cali for being attentive to her master. Keep sharing, keep safe🙏

[@donnad634]

Everything you are doing on your homestead is interesting!