Below ground

Mike Hancock, a former nuclear power plant project manager with an engineering background, established Basement Contractors of Oklahoma in 1994. Upon moving to Oklahoma, he observed a significant absence of proper basements in residential construction, where typical foundation companies offered unreinforced stem walls, leading to frequent water problems. Despite this, commercial properties in the area featured underground parking and walk-out basements, indicating the feasibility of such structures. Hancock identified an opportunity to introduce properly constructed residential basements to the market. He began building houses with basements on sloped lots, which were typically cheaper, allowing for walk-out designs. This initiative attracted the attention of local builders, who then sought his services. Basement Contractors of Oklahoma successfully cultivated a market for residential basements, now constructing approximately 70 residential basements annually. Hancock's approach extends beyond just building; he provides engineering services to homebuilders, guiding them on site treatment after his crew completes the basement. He also conducts educational classes for the local building community, in collaboration with organizations like the Portland Cement Association (PCA) and a local concrete supplier. These classes cover the physics of proper basement construction, backfilling techniques, and appropriate landscaping around foundations. Hancock emphasizes a comprehensive service model, offering everything related to the basement, including drainage, waterproofing, and flatwork, allowing builders to focus on framing. Additionally, the company offers structural engineering services for framing, decks, and HVAC system design, and can extend its concrete work beyond basements to include concrete decks, structural staircases, and above-grade walls. Currently, basements account for about 70% of the company's sales, with home and commercial building making up 15%, and other areas such as engineering and specialty applications comprising the remaining 15%. Approximately a decade ago, Basement Contractors expanded into building insulated above-grade concrete walls, completing about 20 homes and several light commercial properties using this method. Hancock notes a growing momentum in the green building market, though he acknowledges that economic considerations often influence homeowners' decisions. He highlights that an insulated concrete home, leveraging the thermal mass of its walls, offers superior environmental stability and represents a cost-effective green building investment for homeowners, with returns realized through energy savings. In the commercial sector, there's a rising inclination towards thermally efficient construction to minimize exposure to damage in industrial zones while maintaining architectural appeal, where concrete, in various forms like tilt-up, poured-in-place, or Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs), is a suitable material. Basement Contractors' crews are proficient in multiple insulated concrete systems, including Thermomass, ThermaEZE, and E-MAXX, all used with aluminum forms, and are trained on major ICF brands. Hancock selects the optimal system based on project specifics, for instance, favoring Thermomass when both sides of a wall are exposed for finishing, or using E-MAXX or ThermaEZE with external foam when brick siding is planned. For enhanced soundproofing and internal sheetrock, foam can be placed on both interior and exterior. ICFs are utilized for specific construction scenarios like one-sided pours or against existing structures in remodels. For energy efficiency, particularly in southern climates like Oklahoma, basement walls are often left uninsulated to exploit the consistent 65-degree Fahrenheit soil temperature, which helps cool the house. In such climates, the priority is to insulate against exterior heat transfer, allowing warmer indoor air to dissipate into the cooler ground via uninsulated basement walls. The company also incorporates fly ash and blast slag into concrete mixes, substituting cement with industrial waste for a greener product. A recent significant project demonstrating the company's green building expertise is an 8,000-square-foot Greek Orthodox church in Norman, Oklahoma, featuring insulated concrete walls and a walk-out basement. Initially planned as an ICF build, Hancock re-engineered it into an insulated poured-wall project, proving more economical and energy-efficient. The use of Thermomass panels within the concrete walls mitigated concerns about hail damage to external foam. The church also includes stained concrete floors, stucco exterior, plaster interior, and a design that eliminates the need for a joist ledge. Basement Contractors of Oklahoma has successfully demonstrated the versatility and benefits of concrete construction, establishing a basement market where none existed and delivering energy-efficient buildings that result in long-term savings for owners. The company recently commenced construction on its 500th basement, an 8,000-square-foot house aiming for LEED for Homes Platinum and NAHB Emerald green certifications. This project features concrete construction from the basement to the roof soffit, with Thermomass-insulated concrete walls, a high fly ash concrete mix, and factory-pre-cut foam panels to reduce on-site waste. Additional green features include geothermal heating/cooling, a clay tile roof, and reclaimed materials like wood floors, rafters, doors, and antique fixtures. #BasementConstruction #ConcreteFoundations #GreenBuilding #EnergyEfficiency #InsulatedConcreteForms #Thermomass #ResidentialConstruction #CommercialBuilding #OklahomaConstruction

Bill and Marie Mahoney, retired U.S. Army colonels, have launched a new mobile flooring franchise, Floor Coverings International (FCI), in Midlothian. The couple embarked on this venture as a second career, having sought advice from a family friend and a career coach from The Entrepreneur’s Source. Their decision to choose FCI was influenced by the franchise's 30-year history of steady growth, even amidst the challenges posed by COVID-19, and its alignment with their personal values and goals. The Mahoneys also appreciated the strong corporate support offered by FCI and the opportunity to involve their children in the business; their son, Max, joined last year, and their daughter, Maura, contributes to social media content, creating a family legacy. The FCI mobile franchise operates by bringing a wide selection of flooring samples directly to customers' homes. This approach allows clients to visualize how different flooring options will look within their specific environment, considering the unique lighting, shadows, and sunshine conditions of their living space. The Mahoneys emphasize a client-centric approach, focusing on understanding and resolving clients' problems by providing outcomes tailored to their traffic patterns and space usage. They offer approximately 3,000 samples of luxury vinyl, wood, and laminate flooring directly from their mobile unit. This extensive collection enables a truly custom design experience, as they can easily pull alternative samples if an initial choice proves unsuitable for the intended site. A key differentiator for FCI, as highlighted by Bill Mahoney, is the ability to present floor samples within the customer's actual home, unlike traditional big-box stores. This allows for a more informed decision-making process, as the ambient lighting and decor of a home can significantly alter the appearance of flooring. Furthermore, the Mahoneys can arrange for larger sample sizes to be provided, allowing customers to live with and move the samples around their home before making a final commitment. This personalized, in-home consultation service aims to ensure that customers are completely satisfied with their flooring choice, having seen it under real-life conditions. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FloorCoveringsInternational #FlooringOptions #MobileShowroom #HomeRenovation #MidlothianBusiness #FamilyBusiness #CustomFlooring

This article outlines the proper techniques for installing subflooring to create a flat, squeak-free base for finished floors. Subflooring is identified as a critical structural component in home construction, and the installation process is highlighted as a key step in ensuring the overall quality and longevity of a flooring system. The objective is to guide installers in achieving both efficiency and accuracy. The article implicitly suggests the use of adhesives and fasteners for securing subfloor panels. While the main content is concise, the subsequent comments section delves deeper into various aspects and concerns related to subfloor installation, offering practical advice and alternative methods from experienced builders. For instance, the orientation of tongue-and-groove panels is debated, with some professionals recommending facing the groove towards the leading edge to protect the more vulnerable tongue during installation. This detail emphasizes the importance of understanding material properties and optimal handling practices. Another significant point raised in the comments concerns fall protection during subfloor installation, underscoring the necessity of prioritizing safety on construction sites. The discussion also touches upon fastening methods, with some builders advocating for hand-nailing end joints to achieve better precision and control compared to nail guns. The use of screws is also mentioned as an alternative to adhesive and nails, with a focus on specific spacing (6 inches in the field, 4 inches on edges) to prevent squeaks and callbacks, particularly when considering the potential for dust to compromise adhesive strength. The article and its commentary also address potential long-term issues, such as floor bouncing. Solutions mentioned include specialized products like metal I-joists from Structure Lock and vibration/deflection control products from Kenkeknem Smart Build, highlighting advancements in construction materials and techniques aimed at improving floor stability. Furthermore, the longevity and potential challenges of removing glued subflooring are discussed, particularly in scenarios involving renovations, water damage, or mold. This raises important considerations about the ease of future repairs and replacements, especially with materials like OSB which are known to be susceptible to water damage. In summary, the article and its interactive component provide a comprehensive overview of subfloor installation, covering best practices, common challenges, safety considerations, material choices, and innovative solutions, all aimed at achieving a durable, stable, and high-quality foundation for any home. #SubfloorInstallation #HomeConstruction #Flooring #BuildingTechniques #HomeImprovement #ConstructionSafety #AdhesiveApplication #FlooringMaterials #HomeBuilding

The success of flooring installations is significantly influenced by the technical layers between the subfloor and the final floorcovering. This segment of the industry is marked by continuous innovation, with suppliers developing products that are more environmentally friendly, cleaner, and faster to install. These materials address a variety of critical issues, including moisture mitigation, acoustical abatement, crack isolation, mold prevention, underfoot comfort, and adhesion. Suppliers, who once offered a narrow range of specialized products, have now either created even more specialized solutions or expanded their product lines significantly. Some, like Healthier Choice, have even branched into floorcoverings. The market has seen a notable shift from soft surface to hard surface flooring over several decades, a trend further accelerated by the rise of rigid LVT products. This transition has led to louder interiors, necessitating solutions to mitigate sound, such as wall and ceiling treatments, or the creation of quiet zones with rugs. Hard floors also amplify sound transmission between floors, a significant concern in multi-level commercial spaces like corporate offices and hospitality venues, and in the multifamily residential sector where hard surface flooring is increasingly replacing carpet, leading to noise issues for tenants. Acoustical underlayments are now in high demand, with many flooring material suppliers offering various options, including unattached rolls, pads, and poured or pumped solutions. Another major challenge in the subfloor market is managing moisture in concrete. Construction timelines are often tight, frequently leading to insufficient concrete curing time. The resulting moisture and salts from the concrete can compromise adhesives and damage flooring installations. The industry has responded with solutions ranging from moisture barriers and sealants to accelerated timelines for other installation elements, such as rapid-drying underlayments, adhesives, and faster flooring installation systems. Leading suppliers in this sector were interviewed to understand their solutions for residential and commercial flooring markets, their product offerings, and current developments. These suppliers can be broadly categorized into three groups: products placed directly under the floorcovering (e.g., carpet cushion), radiant heat systems, and products that bond to the subfloor. Leggett & Platt, a major manufacturer of underlayments, rubber padding, and foam cushion, focuses heavily on the residential market. Their rebond carpet pad is a significant product, alongside their rapidly growing styrene butadiene (SB) rubber underlayments for hard surface flooring, such as Whisper Step, which provides high Delta IIC ratings. They also offer ACI-125 for use under ceramic tile, providing crack protection and sound reduction. Foam Products, initially a footwear insole manufacturer, transitioned to producing attached pads for laminates and later unattached underlayments for hardwood, laminate, and vinyl plank products. They primarily use polyurethane due to its superior performance and compatibility with flooring. Their premium products, like Eco Ultimate Silencer and Eco Silencer HD FOF, are Greenguard Gold certified for low VOCs and offer excellent acoustical and moisture control. Future Foam, with over 30 foaming facilities, specializes in higher-end polyurethane foam, rebond products, and hard surface underlayments, serving both residential and commercial sectors. Their acquisition of Foamex plants and FXI-Innocor facilities has expanded their production capabilities, and they've seen significant growth due to the surge in home improvement. Healthier Choice, founded with a focus on healthier rebond products using low-VOC polyurethanes, has expanded its offerings to include solid and engineered hardwood flooring and rigid LVT. Their product lines include memory foam for residential carpets, denser polyurethane for commercial applications, and recycled fiber cushions. They are also launching an area rug cushion with anti-slip properties. MP Global, known for its QuietWalk acoustical underlayments, offers products for both hard and soft surfaces, with a significant portion of their content derived from recycled fibers. Their QuietWarmth heated film system has seen substantial growth, especially for homeowners investing in their homes. Warmly Yours, an electric flooring heating system manufacturer, reported significant sales gains in various home areas, with increased adoption under engineered hardwood, laminate, LVT, and nailed hardwood. They offer a range of underfloor heating systems, including cable products, rolls, mats, and systems for concrete. They also provide underlayments compatible with their heating systems, such as cork and synthetic cork. ThermoSoft, another underfloor heating specialist, utilizes patented FiberThermics heating elements for efficient and safe heat conduction, featuring a Thermal Cut Off for overheating protection. They offer various systems like WarmStep mats and ThermoFloor mats for diverse installations. Schluter Systems, known for its uncoupling membranes like Ditra, also provides radiant heat systems (Ditra-Heat and Ditra-Heat-Duo), with the latter featuring integrated bonding fleece for thermal breaks and sound reduction. They also develop floor profiles for luxury vinyl. In floor prep and adhesives, Taylor Adhesives, now part of Meridian Adhesives Group, offers a broad range of products for hard and soft surface flooring. They've focused on moisture mitigation and acoustical abatement solutions and have launched Taylor Time, an educational platform for the industry. Schönox HPS North America provides cutting-edge products like AP Rapid, a self-leveling compound with sound insulation that dries rapidly without HVAC. Their HS Sturdy, a repair and smoothing compound, uses Hybrid Active-Dry technology. Laticrete, a long-standing innovator in polymer-fortified thinset adhesives, has expanded into membranes, grouts, sealants, and concrete remediation products like Supercap. They're also introducing the Spartacote High Yield System with Lux Additive, which increases reflectivity for indoor grow facilities. Mapei Group, a global supplier, offers underlayments, adhesives, grouts, and its Mapeheat line of radiant heat systems. Lastly, Ardex, with its Ardex Americas subsidiary, introduced self-leveling cement underlayment and Self-Drying technology, and now offers a full range of subfloor prep materials, uncoupling systems, mortars, grouts, and waterproofing systems, including rapid-setting solutions like Ardex K 40 Rapid and Henry 647 PlumPro. Many of these firms also prioritize environmental certifications like Greenguard Gold and FloorScore. #FlooringUnderlayments #FloorPreparation #MoistureMitigation #AcousticalAbatement #RadiantHeat #Adhesives #HardSurfaceFlooring #MultifamilyHousing #ConstructionInnovation

Act_romegialli, a local Italian practice, was tasked with incorporating an indoor pool into an existing early 19th-century home in Northern Italy, which had been previously renovated a decade earlier. The firm developed a subterranean pavilion designed to house both leisure and fitness facilities. This new structure's placement was strategically guided by the natural topography of the site. A key feature of the pavilion is its glazed façade, which offers views of an artificial lake adorned with buoyant water lilies, creating a seamless connection between the interior and the outdoor environment. To ensure a cohesive aesthetic throughout the design, small white ceramic tiles were selected for lining the swimming pool and adjacent surfaces. The pavilion's front features a sliding door that can retract entirely into a structural cavity, maximizing the visual and physical interaction with the surrounding parkland. This thoughtful design choice enhances the sense of openness and integration with nature. The independent pavilion is accessible from the exterior via a dedicated timber pathway, which reinforces a feeling of seclusion and privacy for those approaching it. For direct access from the main house, an underground tunnel was constructed, linking the sequential geometric volumes of the pavilion internally. This dual access system provides both a sense of discovery and convenience for residents and guests. In addition to the sunken pool sanctuary, the project also included the addition of a glazed conservatory. This conservatory serves as an extension of the main house, addressing the client's desire for a space from which to enjoy the garden views. The original residence, elevated one meter above the ground plane, lacked a strong connection to its parkland setting. The conservatory, therefore, was designed to bridge this gap, offering an enclosed area where the garden could be fully appreciated. The project was completed in 2015 and involved collaboration with several specialized studios, including Studio Maffia-Rossetti for the structure, Studio Moncecchi Associati for the steel structure, and Studio Bertolini for the plantation. Emanuele Bortolotti – AG&P handled the landscape design, while APAG – Carvernago BG managed the construction work. Thema provided the windows, GF Fioroni contributed to furniture design, and Mario Sulis - Trasparenze was responsible for the lighting. Spandrio supplied the ceramics, all beautifully captured in photographs by Marcello Mariana. This architectural intervention by act_romegialli effectively integrates modern recreational facilities and enhanced living spaces into a historic property while maintaining a sensitive relationship with the natural landscape. The design focuses on creating both a private, secluded retreat and an open, connected living experience, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to renovation and extension. #ActRomegialli #UndergroundPool #ItalianArchitecture #RenovationProject #GlazedPavilion #ArchitecturalDesign #IndoorSwimmingPool #LandscapeIntegration #HistoricProperty

EverDry Waterproofing of Cincinnati has provided basement waterproofing and foundation repair solutions to residents in Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, Dayton, and Southeast Indiana since 1985. The company specializes in addressing common issues such as basement leaks, mold growth, bowing walls, and cracked foundations, which can compromise a home's structural integrity and indoor air quality. Their services aim to create dry, healthy, and structurally sound basements, improving living conditions and preventing long-term damage. Basement waterproofing typically involves a combination of interior and exterior methods. Interior solutions often include drainage systems, sump pumps, and sealants to manage water intrusion. Exterior methods focus on preventing water from reaching the foundation through techniques like exterior excavation, French drains, and proper grading. Foundation repair, on the other hand, addresses structural problems like cracks, settling, and bowing walls, utilizing methods such as piering, helical piles, and carbon fiber straps to stabilize and reinforce the foundation. The choice of method depends on the specific cause and extent of the damage. Issues such as hydrostatic pressure, poor drainage, and expansive soils can contribute to basement and foundation problems. Hydrostatic pressure occurs when saturated soil creates pressure against basement walls, leading to cracks and leaks. Inadequate grading around the home can cause water to pool near the foundation, increasing the risk of water intrusion. Expansive soils, which swell when wet and shrink when dry, can exert significant pressure on foundations, causing movement and damage over time. Effective solutions require a thorough assessment of these underlying causes. General Manager Charles Begley discussed EverDry's offerings with Pete Scalia, highlighting the importance of professional intervention for these issues. DIY solutions often provide only temporary relief and may not address the root causes of the problem. Professional waterproofing and foundation repair services offer comprehensive evaluations, customized solutions, and long-term warranties, ensuring lasting results and peace of mind for homeowners. Investing in these services can prevent more costly repairs in the future and protect the overall value of the property. EverDry Waterproofing emphasizes customer satisfaction and uses proprietary systems developed over decades of experience. Their approach focuses on delivering permanent solutions that not only resolve existing problems but also prevent future occurrences. Homeowners experiencing signs of water intrusion or foundation damage are encouraged to seek expert advice to safeguard their homes and ensure a healthy living environment. #BasementWaterproofing #FoundationRepair #HomeMaintenance #Cincinnati #NorthernKentucky #Dayton #SoutheastIndiana #HomeImprovement

The article explores the evolving landscape of flooring design, highlighting how floors have transitioned from mere functional elements to integral components of a home's aesthetic and overall ambiance. It features insights from Dinesh Vyas, Vice President of H&R Johnson, a prominent tile manufacturing brand, who discusses current trends and innovations in the industry. The discussion emphasizes the significant role flooring plays in defining the character and style of a living space. Vyas underscores that modern flooring options offer a vast array of choices, moving beyond traditional materials to incorporate advanced technologies and diverse aesthetics. The evolution of flooring materials is a central theme, with a focus on how materials like vitrified tiles, once primarily functional, are now leading the charge in design innovation. These tiles are praised for their durability, low maintenance, and ability to mimic natural materials such as wood and marble, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. The article notes a growing preference for large-format tiles, which create a sense of spaciousness and reduce grout lines, contributing to a seamless and expansive look in contemporary interiors. This trend is driven by a desire for minimalist designs and easy cleaning. Sustainability is another key aspect of modern flooring trends. Consumers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly options, and manufacturers are responding with products made from recycled materials or produced through environmentally responsible processes. The article touches upon the demand for tiles that not only look good but also contribute to a healthier indoor environment. This includes options that are resistant to allergens and easy to clean without harsh chemicals, catering to a wellness-conscious demographic. Technological advancements have significantly impacted flooring design, enabling the creation of tiles with intricate patterns, textures, and realistic finishes. Digital printing technology, for instance, allows for high-definition replication of natural wood grains, stone veining, and other complex designs, offering homeowners unprecedented customization possibilities. Vyas likely elaborates on how these technologies are making premium aesthetics accessible to a wider audience, democratizing luxury in home design. Finally, the article suggests that the future of flooring lies in continued innovation, blending aesthetic versatility with enhanced functionality and environmental responsibility. Homeowners are encouraged to view flooring as an investment in their home's character and comfort, choosing materials that reflect their personal style while meeting practical demands. The collaboration between manufacturers and designers is crucial in pushing the boundaries of what is possible in flooring, ensuring that floors continue to be a foundational element in creating beautiful and sustainable living spaces. The insights provided by Dinesh Vyas serve as a guide for understanding these dynamic shifts in the flooring industry. #FlooringTrends #TileDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #H&RJohnson #DineshVyas #SustainableFlooring #VitrifiedTiles

The 21st century's architectural frontier is shifting from skyscrapers to underground spaces, driven by urban density and environmental considerations. Architect James Ramsey and developer Daniel Barasch are pioneering this movement with their proposal for the 'Lowline' in New York City, an underground park envisioned for a disused trolley terminal beneath Delancey Street. This innovative project aims to transform a 65-year-old, subterranean space into a vibrant public park, complete with pathways, benches, and trees, all accessible regardless of weather conditions. While the absence of natural light presents a challenge, Ramsey has developed 'remote skylights.' These systems utilize pole-mounted receptors above ground, connected via fiber-optic cables to panels in the underground ceiling, to channel genuine sunlight into the space. The Lowline project is currently seeking political support and an estimated $60 million in funding, building on the success of similar urban revitalization projects like the High Line, which repurposed an elevated rail trestle. The concept of underground construction offers several advantages, as highlighted by Dutch geologist Eduardo de Mulder. Despite the initial costs and technical complexities of excavation, particularly in areas with high water tables, underground spaces are more cost-effective to maintain. They are less susceptible to weather damage, eliminating the need for exterior cleaning and repairs. Furthermore, the stable temperatures below ground significantly reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling, offsetting the costs associated with artificial lighting. Cities experiencing extreme climates or rapid urbanization are leading the charge in underground development. Shanghai and Beijing, for instance, have seen their underground real estate expand by approximately 10% annually, with Beijing projected to have 34 square miles of underground space by 2020. Helsinki's master plan includes a substantial expansion of its tunnel networks and over 400 underground facilities, including a seawater-cooled data center. Despite the practical benefits, the psychological aspect of underground living remains a hurdle. Esteban Suarez, an architect from Mexico City, proposed the 'Earthscraper,' a 65-story inverted pyramid designed to extend deep into the earth, incorporating a central shaft to provide natural light and air. While this ambitious project is yet to be realized, the historical precedent of human subterranean habitation is evident in ancient sites like the Derinkuyu Underground City in Turkey. This ancient complex accommodated up to 20,000 people across at least eight levels, featuring living quarters, workshops, food storage, and even livestock pens, with stone slabs indicating its use as a refuge from invaders. These historical examples demonstrate humanity's long-standing capacity for and adaptation to living below the surface, suggesting that modern innovations in lighting and ventilation could overcome contemporary psychological barriers. #UrbanDesign #UndergroundArchitecture #SustainableCities #ArchitecturalInnovation #LowlineProject #FutureCities #UrbanPlanning #GreenSpaces #SubterraneanLiving