Expert: Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC) - 1/30/2011

Question
I have a cabin in western (Luck) Wisconsin. it is 24 by 40 on 6x6 piers. Ther front is about 3 feet up from the ground and the back is about 1 foot off the ground. it is well above the lake level and water is not a problem as the property slopes nicely to the lake.
I would like to convert it to a 4 season cabin.
I have been told that I need to have concrete footing. Is their another way to covert to a 4 season cabin. We would like to stay their year round.....
Thanks for the information.

Answer
John,

For the longevity of your structure you do need to have adequate footings, but these need not be part of a continuous foundation wall - i.e., a basement or crawlspace.  Your existing 6x6 piers, if on frost footings, may be structurally sufficient.  I have even heard the opinion from certain building scientists that raising a structure away from ground contact is a healthy and sustainable approach.  

There are a few downsides to having a 4-season structure on piers.  Depending on you under-floor insulation, you are likely to have higher energy costs and cool (if not cold) floors.  The space beneath the house tends to attract pests, and is difficult to enclose in any attractive and durable way.  Finally, you will need to create a heated chase for your plumbing supply and waste.

You should also check into the zoning in your area.  Some places have zoning restrictions or covenants that require full foundations under permanent structures.  

Ted Barnhill
Design 45, LLC