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[KNat <knat AT sprintmail.com>]

Gene GeRue wrote:
> This raises the issue of personal philosophy. Builders and  
> contractors typically build a structure according to code, which  
> means the building will stand through one or two mortgages. We  
> individuals building for our own use typically strive to make a  
> structure that will last as long as we expect to use it and sell it  
> or maybe long enough for our children to use it. Concrete is  
> expensive; it contains a fair amount embedded energy in the cement  
> and it must be installed in good forms with the right mix ratio and  
> the drainage that Don wrote about. Perfect drainage and strong,  
> reinforced concrete can create the bottom of a building that will  
> last centuries.
>
> It's a choice.
Sustainability would say build to last as long as regenerating the 
materials it is from.

Peace,
Kathyann