About Brian McElroy Expertise I am a home builder in the Tampa Florida area specializing in energy-efficient homes built with precast concrete wall systems that are hurricane resistant to 235 mph. I have researched and used many methods of new home construction and find this the most cost-effective, environmentally-friendly method of home building for this area. I am also investigating other alternative methods to improve my products. I am a member of the Florida Green Build Coalition, EPA Energy Star Program, and have other affiliations involving energy savings, safe building practices and quality construction practices
Experience
Past/Present clients Many happy homeowners and repeat customers.
Question QUESTION: Is it feasible to build a barn style two story house cheaply? I want to find a builder/architect to build a shell and then finish the interior my self. I am not proficient on the IBC requirements for residential buildings as it relates to required degrees of finish and internal dividing walls. I would like to have the greatest degree of open space through the use of glue-lam beams and girders. Basically, post and beam but using lower cost modern joinery and engineered lumber sources. Feasibility and reasonable cost?
ANSWER: Where do you plan to build?
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QUESTION: We plan to build in northern Indiana.
Answer I can only speak for homes in Florida. Generally, 2 stories are about 30% more expensive than single story homes due to the need for a floor system and a 2nd a/c or heating unit. If you look at Icynene insulation, the HVAC loads will be greatly reduced, but you really need to find local contractors to give you pricing and estimates.
