Finishing Floating House Boat Build From Scratch!

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Our Journey! How did we get here?
In the winter of 2019 we moved in to our self built van full time to begin living, working and travelling Canada. We quickly fell in love with chasing our dreams of adventuring off the beaten path, living off grid and being self sustaining. We drove our van thousands of miles through various countries-Canada, USA, Mexico & Guatemala. All of which we documented here on our channel, be sure to check that out! After many years on the open road we found ourselves 15 acres of remote woods of Canada where we are building a homestead and renovating our fully off the grid cabin. We are diving into this chapter of our lives in no experience, we're so happy we can bring you all along as we learn to do it all with our own two hands. Thank you for being here with us for cabin life, van life and all the in between!
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3+ Years of Van life with 2 dogs
Off- Grid Living at our Cabin in the woods
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[@greatpix]

Keep a few paddles on hand in case of motor failure. Maybe some long poles too. You could add some pullout pontoons for added stability.

[@berrymand71]

Yes, moving that big square without a motor is going to be difficult . I would experiment to see whether paddles or poles would work better.

[@Soey77]

You Ladies are amazing! Even stitches don’t slow you down. No excuses, back to work. So inspiring

[@Vanwives]

Thank you for sharing your kind words with us Soey. 😊🐶

[@seafishwendy]

Crystal keep in mind don't go swimming in any type of water with your leg being sewn up you can get a bacterial staph infection even though that it's stitched up you can lose your leg over it, so be careful. I've seen this where a person lost their leg because of that they got in water that had bacterial staph in the water I didn't even know it until it was too late.

[@Vanwives]

Thank you Wendy. Yes so important to keep it clean. Thank you for caring so much to share your experience with me. It truly means so much. 💛💛

[@Dgervelis1]

You need stitches and a tetanus shot and antibiotics

[@greatpix]

Crystal --- Spent the past 3 weeks in the hospital fighting a similar bacterial infection that turned into severe sepsis. I'm lucky to be alive. I'm still feeling wiped out.

[@JudithBisson]

@@greatpix 🙏❤️

[@Vanwives]

@@greatpixOh no, we are sorry to hear that. It must have been scary sepsis can be fatal. So happy you are on the road to healing. Sending love and healing thoughts to you. 💛🐶

[@BrianForbes-uw6hx]

Your floating house job is absolutely amazing and you both did an awesome job building it. Enjoy your time in it and on the lake. I’m sure any visiting guests will love it. Have a great week ladies.

[@Vanwives]

We just love it too. We surprised ourselves. The perfect getaway when we need a break from project: 😊🐶

[@bernardszirth9665]

There is absolutely nothing the two of you can’t undertake! Amazing Captains!

[@julieholcombe7422]

OH MY GOSH!!! The floating tiny house is SO CUTE!!!!! I love that you painted the door red and used the life saver ring that you found in the "new" house crawl space!!! Awesome job y'all!!! ❤️🐾🐾❤️

[@vlakslee]

Your ability to work together without a lot of strife is an inspiration. At least in front of the camera. Thanks for the teaching video.

[@frankperry2874]

Tip people: when you cut Tyvek around windows, cut an x pattern and wrap the triangle flaps inside. Do not actually trim a square around the edges. Well done compensating on the flashing though. Also, boat construction is very different, 2x4s aren’t necessary. Weight is a consideration, that thing is way overbuilt! Well done though, it will last forever!

[@bryanvargo5691]

Awesome and fun build! Just a quick tip: If you're going to the lengths of wrapping and sealing the structure walls with Tyvek and Tuck Tape and the subfloor with under floor membrane, you may want to also waterproof the underside of the deck boards under the footprint of the structure. Because it's sitting over water, you're guaranteed to have moisture come up through the slits in the deck boards, which may affect the structure over time. It may be a pain to do at this stage of the build, but will provide some extra protection in the long run. Plus, you could wait to do it at the end of the season when you pull out the raft for the winter.

[@carl.s1659]

Thinking maybe that mod happens during the iCE FISHING floor remodel ;)

[@davidmiller6010]

When installing windows, dry fit your windows and strike a pencil line around the perimeter. Then remove the window and caulk the BUILDING between the pencil mark and the opening. That way you'll never caulk the wrong side again, AND you can pick up the window any way you need to. You ladies did an amazing job and deserve to be proud! KUDOS!

[@sharondoan1447]

Sounds good to me! I have no idea how to do any of that. 😂

[@davidmiller6010]

@@sharondoan1447 Thanks! I've put in hundreds of windows so far and that's my best method.

[@isaacmathewsmusic]

Awesome build! Side note! You can setup your trolling motor to “pull” by mounting it in the front of the boat and rotating the handle 180 degrees. It’s a single screw that holds the top part of the controls on the motor shaft. 2 minute job and you could stand on the front deck and steer your house boat.

[@angelareynolds6336]

This would be so great for them!

[@allenshepherd5225]

First thing I thought of as they mentioned looking through the window and opened door! Great comment!

[@garyroberts7592]

Great job! A couple of tips for future projects. 1) never nail vinyl siding tight to a surface as it will buckle when hit by the sun and 2) when trying to hold a nail to start hammering hold it with the back of your hand towards the surface ie; shingle, board, siding whatever. You will appreciate the difference of hitting the pads of your fingers with the hammer as opposed to your knuckle, nail or back of your finger. It really makes a difference and if you watch builder vids most all have their palm facing out holding the nail. Keep up the great work you ladies do. Oh to be young and driven!

[@marcia8382]

I was thinking the same thing. My neighbor's siding buckled from being nailed tightly and not allowing for the wood to expand and contract

[@alicecain4851]

Those are great tips! I hope they see them. With the house done, is there anything they can do about tip #1 now?

[@FloatingVillageLife]

Your dedication and craftsmanship in completing the floating house boat from scratch are truly impressive. Your meticulous attention to detail and creative vision have resulted in a masterpiece that embodies resilience and passion. And I am Floating Village Life

[@deedeew4040]

Welp, you never cease to amaze me with your fine-tuned construction abilities. Your houseboat is gorgeous. You have this lake to yourselves, how tranquil.

[@Vanwives]

Thank you for your support. We are so lucky. We love how tranquil it is and to be surrounded by nature. 💛🐶

[@kathifoynm]

What a fun little project for lake frolicking. I enjoyed seeing all of the animals, especially that shot of the snapping turtle. Good job, as always.

[@marcyfalconer1275]

Y'all are having fun. It's so nice to see the simple life!! Thank you for sharing.

[@frogman79106]

I cannot say this often enough!...you two are amazing...I always look forward to Sundays so that I can watch, and listen, to you ladies completing (or in the process of completing) your next project. Big shout out from Georgetown, Texas!!

[@cathylivingston368]

Tyvek is water tight, but also Air tight, and the super duper tape will seal off any drafts or cracks. It's probably more important in a full size building with windows, doors, and sealed indoor air system, but I used it on my van under the Reflectix to keep OUT the road dust, exhaust, wildfire smoke, etc., so that I can more easily control the "indoor" air quality and temperature. I'm with you Jas...pretty amazing to look at and feel the Tyvek, and how consider how such a simple lightweight material can be so strong.

[@markdixon215]

Your floating house looks amazing, great job girls. Crystal, trust your leg is healing well. Be careful out there. Love seeing all the wildlife on your doorstep, awesome. Have a good week. 🥰

[@sandrasandymanning4354]

Sundays are for video binges! Love your work!

[@alicecain4851]

With Vanwives and Tyler and Todd, our DIY day is filled!

[@joeharwellauthor9317]

Spectacular build. Don't forget, have a spare battery for the trolling motor and have oars on board just in case.

[@racheldenman559]

At least there's someone out there bringing our dreams to life!! Awesome job ladies!😊

[@elaineblackmore5344]

Spectacular creation! What an amazing summer you two are going to have!

[@stacybroussard3097]

This floating tiny house is absolutely INCREDIBLE 🤩 I am so proud of you ladies, you nailed this project... Well Done ✌🏼✌🏼✌🏼

[@Stoney_Snark]

Ahoy Vansailors!! Happy Sunday, enjoy that badass party boat!

[@Vanwives]

We think we will be making many good memories on our floating tiny home.😊❤️

[@Cherie5353]

I went to sleep watching KZbin but when your video came on my eyes flew open. I love the floating house. You are the best. Cabins, decks, lakes, greenhouse, OMG …. It’s all right up my alley. ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@Vanwives]

Wow Cherie, that is quite the compliment. Happy to have you with us on our journey. 💛🐶

[@caraduchnowski794]

I looks so amazing! There is nothing you two can't do. I find myself telling others how great you booth are and how well you work together to accomplish these goals. Just love it!

[@acdallas6356]

Even if you end up with a scar, it will always bring a great memory of the house boat building. Thanks for giving me a reason to sit and smile on Sunday mornings! 😺

[@user-up1pk8fk1f]

You two are absolutely amazing! You are the perfect example of “you can accomplish anything that you put your mind to,” Incredibly inspirational. Hugs!

[@thomasfruge]

GOOD Sunday Morning Ladies!! 😊😀 Excited to see what's y'all been up to lately on to the beautiful video of yours!! 👏👏🎉🎉

[@Vanwives]

Happy to have you with us Thomas. 😊🐶

[@juliabanes204]

YESSSSS, your videos always make up for the fact that it's Sunday and Monday is coming shortly!! I'm constantly impressed with your meticulous work and how everything fits together!

[@Vanwives]

Believe me sometime we surprise ourselves. Thank you for your kind comment. 😊🐶

[@derekwalters4980]

OMGosh!! That looks AMAZING!! Hoping to see a "Night on a Canadian Lake" video, with lots of Canadian lake wildlife footage. Yes, this would be very cool for some of your city slicker fans.

[@levt7651]

Fantastic! The houseboat came out great😊! Looking forward to seeing your first camping trip! We'll done!

[@moavdi756]

YAAAAY! SUNDAY PACK DAY 🐾 🐕 🐕 ❤🎉 Phil & I have been waiting since 5:30am. 😊Have a great day everyone!

[@AlikiRocks]

Have a great day to you and Phil, from me and Apollo 🌞💙🐶 #packmates

[@Vanwives]

We sure do love your support. I am thinking Phil was your alarm clock today. 🐶 🐱

[@khillikialea]

I only came across you beautiful ladies 2 weeks ago. I watched one and was hooked. Went right back to the start of your journey and watched frome start to now. Love how fun loving, advantages, willingness to give everything ago and never give up. Your both so very inspirational, inspiring Ladies. Thank you for your amazing content look forward to everything yet to come. Much love to you both and hugs.

[@debihuntsman9314]

Is there anything you girls can't do??! You never cease to amaze me. Your houseboat is beautiful! Have fun and stay safe. ❤❤

[@kellilandry2825]

That thing is the coolest! Can’t wait to see you and maybe some friends enjoying it this summer! Also, really loved seeing all the wildlife with you! What a treat! ❤❤❤

[@marilynyurchick2514]

Another great project! Enjoy your time on the lake. Please be careful out there. Your well-being is extremely important to us. Have fun and live your life to the fullest. Life is too short, so enjoy each other as much as you can.💛💛

[@Vanwives]

Thanks Marilyn for all your kind words. We appreciate your support. 💛🐶

[@loril.mangold8160]

That's Soo Great !! You 2 are the Best Living the Dream Life, Row, Row, Row your Boat, life is but a dream, you create it as you go

[@tristanarnoux1946]

LOVE the red front door! I was so disappointed when I saw you repainting it white but luckily it was just the first layer!! Looks very good! I could have seen blue with blue shutters like greek homes too. Your cabin looks so enchanting

[@nanabananainavana7534]

OMG even the thumbnail had me so excited for this video!! This cabin is beyond amazing. I absolutely love that you did this for the summer fun!!

[@outlawdodgetrucking]

Great job wife’s ❤🎉😂. You might want to put a piece of mental corner angle where the anchor chain rubs on the wood decking. Good work🫶🏼✌🏼🙏🏻🇺🇸.

[@Vanwives]

Thank you for your idea, great tip. 😊🐶

[@lpgirl]

This looks like the most fun project EVER!!

[@terrigoodheart7605]

Wow! Total success! You guys are amazing. Such good construction! Beautiful little floating cabin. Have fun, you deserve it!💜💚💜

[@rolandtb3]

Put some tempered glass on the front door. Driver can see through with door closed on bad weather days. Also add a bow electric foot pedal trolling motor to steer on lazy days. Also acts as backup if main engine goes down. Major outside work done, now to insulate and decorate the inside. Houseboat cabin starting to look more like a floating home. Attach a safety line/chain around the rear motor to prevent it accidentally dropping into the water.

[@pameladavies337]

You two have WAY too much fun!!! Love your videos and all your projects. The raft is amazing!!

[@barbarahoover3941]

What a better life, that is. So cool, another great finished project

[@brendacartee3879]

I love the new floating home! You girls have some amazing talent. You are getting prepared for the Mexico build for sure!🐶🐾🐾❤️

[@raktoda707]

It's a truly darling home on the water ! Ladies,take a bow! Doggies did you ever have a doubt ?

[@gen2-x364]

Remembering when I used Tyvek and Typar wraps….don’t miss those days. Was common to wrap right over window and door openings as long as they were not overly large. Then when done wrapping would use a utility knife starting at the center of the openings and cutting to each corner. Then folding the wrap inside and stapling off…….there would only be little areas on each corner to cover…..less areas to tape after also. Oh…thanks for showing your beavers. Think I’d put the motor up front and with a chair you could steer with your foot….lol…..now that would be laid back plus your favorite beverage.

[@SimpleLivingwithBiata]

You actually don't pass code in certain areas now when you wrap house wrap around the frame of your windows! You can't pass where I live. It's because when you wrap it in, it can rot out your header and studs!

[@rhondadodson3396]

I'm no boat person but this is absolutely gorgeous. I get sea sick on the Merry-go-round 😂 The amount of pride you both take in all the work you do. The research into everything is why you are killing it. I'm glad you went to the Doctor & got it checked. The mother hen in me is having to remind you to keep it clean. I'm so proud of you both at ALL the accomplishments you both have. I've watched for a long time & I have loved every moment. Keep on being fabulous Sending so much love to you both ❤ And of course extra belly rubs for Bella & Izzy ❤

[@Vanwives]

Thank you Rhonda we sure do appreciate that you feel like a mother hen to us. Sending love back to you from the pack. 💛🐶

[@GaryJones2012]

You guys can build anything! So talented! Sorry about the injury, Crystal. I'm such a wuss I had to look away in that whole part because I was cringing so much. 🤣

[@danaowen9014]

Im impressed on how the little cabin and floating dock came out. You will have so much fun on it and what views at night. I love all the happyness that you all radiate to us all

[@NORMANMORRISON1940]

You call that tuck tape we call it vapor barrier your tape and ours is red yours is blue I like red because you can use it for broken tail lights

[@noonieone7026]

Finally Canadian critter pics! I knew you had them.

[@Vanwives]

Happy you wanted to see them. 😊🐶

[@salparisi4201]

Great job ladies! You created something unique and useful. I am certain you will have many hours of enjoyment for the work time and effort invested. I continue to be amazed at your ability to work with new materials and do top notch construction. Cheers to your new floating mini home!

[@bozzhalliday5896]

Brilliant build lasses. Fantastic seeing the beavers & other amazing wildlife there. You are so lucky. I'm so glad you've build the Housefloat. If there is ever a forest fire you can escape to the middle of the lake. You should have it stocked up with emergency supplies just incase during fire season. Bella & Izzy amaze me getting on the paddleboard.❤❤❤❤

[@pierrewichser2298]

It reminds me to Tom Saywer and Huckleberry Finn when they floats down the Missisippi-River. Lots of good time, dear girls. 🤩

[@Vanwives]

Thank you Pierre, yes we have heard that before. Happy Sunday. 💛🐶

[@pierrewichser2298]

@@Vanwives The Atlantic is between us. 🥲 otherwise I wouldt knock at your door with vegetarien food. 44y. ago I had worked as Chef in Washington DC. ☺

[@Siris35]

I can imagine sleeping on the lake while it's raining.

[@yellownightjar]

Luv your enthusiasm. Very interesting & relaxing to watch

[@genestatler2514]

That has to be the cutest floating houseboat I've ever seen. I love it.🤩😇 Lots of love from Gene in Tennessee.

[@Vanwives]

We appreciate that Gene. We love it too. Sending love back to you from the pack. 💛🐶

[@manipura_sun]

What about making a glass bottom boat next! That would be so cool and you could see everything under the lake!

[@Vanwives]

That would be so cool for sure. 😎🐶

[@oliveoyl1802]

One with a skylight !

[@sharondoan1447]

How about adding a viewing window to the floating house boat?

[@meturns4666]

If your looking for a shortcut on cutting the vinyl siding , put your blade backwards on your dropsaw , it will cut plastic, vinyl, metal roofing etc . 😊. ❤..

[@Vanwives]

Thank for the great tip. We will definitely try it on upcoming projects. 💛🐶

[@kidlitwriter64]

How amazing is that!! I love all the animals you're seeing! Fabulous job, ladies!

[@nathanbrand4607]

The floating cabin looks awesome! Crystal, feel better soon. Sorry to see that you got hurt, jazz and Crystal. Wishing you both a wonderful week. Okay. Take care 🐾🐾🐶🐶💛💛

[@sofiemiclotte]

It must be so peaceful to float on a lake with a cabin ☺

[@Vanwives]

It is so peaceful, just us and nature such a beautiful landscape. 😊🐶

[@sherrywisler3718]

So sorry about you leg injury Crystal. I hope it heals up without to much of a scar. Your floating house boat is awesome. Enjoy your summer on the lake.

[@tomnorwid]

Fantastic videos! Now my Sunday is complete. Thank you ladies!

[@jimmyjenkins9240]

You ladies have come a long way! Your knowledge and ability continue to grow! Impressive‼️ I don’t like rushing time, but I am looking forward to watching the development in Mexico!

[@rexxawesome6529]

I just looked at my husband and said. "let's be vanwives" happily tearfully. Lol. You two just spread positivity. You're following your happy. We love it. That's how we strive to live too. ❤

[@michelebushnik2874]

Omg I love it! It's adorable! All nautical style❤❤ Wonderful creation ladies!! 🎉🎉

[@Daytonafox1]

That's awesome. i have no need for a floating cabin but HELL want one now!! Awesome girls lots of love xx

[@Vanwives]

That is funny! Thank you for you kind words. 😊🐶

[@christiewalsh5244]

You girls did a great job on the floating house! It looks like so much fun!! 🏖️

[@smellslikedirt525]

Tyvek is great stuff to put under your tent. Also good to save a few small pieces to sit on if you hike and want to sit down on wet grass. Enjoy your new house boat!!!!!!!!!!!

[@its_marc]

That was such a wholesome video, you make these jobs all look so easy you’re so professional nowadays. And your beavers are just to die for 😍

[@jillrector7176]

So glad you painted the door red and love the life ring on it! Beautiful lake boat! It’s obvious you two are Cruising in Canada 🇨🇦

[@SteffanieOfOz]

That houseboat looks amazing! Great Job! You two are so inspirational.

[@joyannmace3141]

I just love Sundays my favorite wives are on I hope you have a great week ❤

[@GreenheartGal]

So cute! ❤ it! Get a couple of long paddles and life vests, to be prepared boaters, please. Do we get to see an overnight sometime?😂 We need more video of the finished beauty! Great job! 👏🏼

[@SirCarlosMusicBMI]

🎉🎉🎉 Simply AMAZING 🤩❗️ You kids keep me motivated in life. Thank you so much for sharing your work and love on this wonderful channel. Blessings,Carlos ✝️🙏❤️😊🇺🇸

[@beverlypoirier705]

What a great build...❤ enjoy the rest of your summer on the lake. Stay safe 🙏

[@jackrose7977]

So cute! Looks like fun. Loved all the little animals.

[@cskvision]

Excellent job you two! Glad your leg is healing well Crystal. I just imagine the floating house being an awesome ice fishing hut in the winter. 🎣

[@anneyday3493]

Ouch, hope your project battle wound heals quickly. I love, love, love the floating cabin.

[@shirleycarter2451]

Crystal your such a tough cookie. Keep it dry, no lake swimming as still can get infection into wound. Loved your build, looks real cut.🎉❤

[@marybethfrederiksen1875]

After seeing the beavers frolicking, your leg with stitches, then you jumping in the Lake! I fear for beaver fever (giardia). My niece is suffering with it now and it's no joke.

[@maujeski1864]

Have fun girls and dogies -nice job - Happy summertime 🐶🐶🌅

[@monicasgh68]

Wow, your floating cabin looks amazing! What are you naming her? The wildlife you're surrounded by is incredible. I hope you enjoy many years of relaxing, lake getaways.

[@MisterTee2010]

I hope you're not left with a scar on your leg Crystal. Excellent job on the floating cabin, love it. Love you girls 🤗😘💖🙏

[@judybesse4058]

You two just keep out doing yourselves....great job!!!!!❤

[@stewartwilkinsonsnr]

Amazing finished floating cabin, love it’s design xxxxx ❤❤

[@thomasmacek5745]

You two ladies are amazing. What a great idea making the floating house boat. PEACE ❤❤❤❤❤

[@ribbleslipscomb5171]

You two are too much for words, always visualizing and manifesting. ❤😂❤❤

[@jeanninepoirier4241]

You ladies are amazing and a true inspiration. I love your life style and am very envious. I really look forward to your videos every Sunday. Thank you for sharing your journey. 🥰

[@judithsimoni357]

Absolutely awesome!!!! Love love love it!! Kudos ladies!! ENJOY!❤❤😊

[@beckyshebesta3567]

Give yourselves a pat on your backs a job well done. Very awesome, you both are just amazing. Hugs to you both and, of course, the girls❤

[@brittanywilliams3057]

Absolutely amazing! I love that yall are out here living yalls best lives.❤❤🐾🐾

[@user-zr1ij2tm6u]

Ohhh Be you that was sore.....The houseboat is awesome.....Well done to you both....It always amazes me with what you two come up with...Stay safe and see you on the next one

[@dragonflymaternity9352]

Floating tiny home….Mind-blowing 😍This is so rad!!! Well done you two 😄🙌🏽

[@tomdarling8358]

Another beautiful job, girls! You might look at hooking up a fish finder just to find your depths.... Some of the newer versions show you everything under and around your Boat or floating Tiny home. You might also pick up some floating buoys to mark those shallow spots. You don't need anyone diving off the floating tiny home into a pile of boulders. Love , the old life buoy hung on the door.🛟 Perfect! I know crystal shouldn't be in the water with her stitches just yet but have you girls thought about picking up some snorkeling equipment? Or maybe taking some scuba diving classes🤿🧜‍♀️🧜🤿 Love the pack. Love the pups. Love the new tiny floating home. ✌️🤟🖖🐾🐾

[@MrYisc]

You keep amazing me/us every week. What a great build you have there. Wishing you many happy and safe travels.

[@dolessproject]

Amazing work! And love the story about the "do less" fish in the winter!! Keep being your awesome pack!