Expert: Dave Johnson - 5/6/2009

Question
I want to buy suitable land and build an underground house in West Virginia. I would prefer to do most of it myself (with family and friends help of course). My questions are :
Would a shipping/cargo container be an option (with the proper moisture insulation obviously)?
and
How/where do I find info about codes for building underground in the state of West Virginia?

Answer
Hi Jahnna,
First I'm not sure if you mean a cargo contauner for storage or to use as living space. But I'm assuming you meant to live in...
I think you'd be less than happy when it was finished, because of the narrow dimension, and you'd find it hard to add to because of the steel construction.
Ideally, when building an in-ground ( or berm) home, the best way these days is to use icf's (insulated concrete forms) they have the foam insulation inside and out, with a 6" core to fill with concrete for structural support. Most of them have built-in "studs" to attach siding or interior walls and finish.
The best to work with I've found is a product called NUDURA and if you go to their site there is a wealth of info.
For codes, you'll need to go to your local town/city office and seek out a code enforcement officer (or other) and tell them your plans.
I know our codes here in Maine, but they vary from town to town and state to state.
Best of luck, and if you need more please mail me again,

Dave