A 14' x 20' owner-built Cabin

Read this interesting email I got the other day:

John, I enjoy reading the posts in your discussion board and thought you might enjoy seeing a picture of a cabin I've been working on for several years now. 

For those wondering if they could really build their own little house I say sure you can but you need to want it bad!

A couple of factors have added to the normal amount of hard work required on my building project. The building site is 2 1/2 hrs. from my home and the cabin site is up on a ridge about 1/4 mile from the road with only a cow path up a steep slope for access. Just getting the material to the site takes some hard work and planning. Also I should mention that I've been fighting Multiple Sclerosis for nearly 23 yrs. and get around with the help of two canes and a 4X4. I cut all of the lumber myself at home and took it to the site by truck/trailor. Studs, plates, headers, rafters and collar ties.

With the help of friends, I was able to complete the shell this year. I should also mention that one friend who helped a lot (Tim Casson) is totally blind. It is amazing what one can accomplish if you want it bad enough!

Best Regards, Jeff Creswell

Now, if I read this right, a guy who needs two canes to get around - with the help of a blind man - milled all his own timber, hauled it up to this site and put this fine little cabin together.

Now, just what was your excuse again?

PS - Jeff didn't build from my plans so even I can't take any credit for helping him!

PPS - Jeff also gave me the info on how he did build the house:

• Foundation: Nine Piers, 40" deep on 2X2X8" footings. 16X16 piers made by stacking block up dry (staggering joints) and poured full with concrete.

• Floor system: 2X8 16" on center joists with triple center beam and double rim joists.

• Walls: 2X4 16" on center with 2X8 headers.

• Roof system: 2X8 rafters 16" on center, 10 in 12 pitch.

• 14X8 sleeping loft.

• 5 windows and 2 doors.