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How to Make the Ideal Outdoor Dream Home

When looking to take full advantage of the outdoors, keep in mind some of these fundamentals for making the best outdoor home.

By: Craig Middleton + Save to a List

Building a home in the woods is one of the hottest trends in the building industry. People are moving away from traditional settlement locations and opting for woodsy spaces. The environment that forest regions offer is one reason for this increasing demand. The serenity and fresh air in these areas make them ideal for family homes. There is also the lack of restrictions for building in the woods, which makes it easy to put up homes. A forested area poses some challenges regarding the design and construction of homes, so it is crucial to work with builders who understand what you need. With special considerations, you can get that perfect outdoors home.

Fire Protection

The biggest concern when constructing a house in a forested area is fire. Current climates have changed weather patterns, and forest fires have become more frequent. With drought seasons spreading further in the mountain regions and lasting longer than before, forest fires have become serious threats in various areas. Living in the middle of trees means that a homeowner is in harm’s way in case a wildfire breaks out. Mitigating against these risks is possible, though.

As much as homes made out of wood are more authentic to the setting; builders recommend using fire-resistant construction materials. Cement or brick for the walls and metal or tile for the roofing are some options to consider when picking the materials. Besides the materials, the design itself can determine how at risk your home is in the case of a fire. Eaves that jut outwards are more likely to catch fire. A builder can come up with a design that is more fire-tolerant and suitable for a forested location.

Energy Efficiency

When building any home, conservation of energy is a priority. Besides reducing construction waste, an ideal home is one that doesn’t cost you thousands of dollars worth of energy bills every year. One way to do that is to build a home that is weather-tight, and that is a house that will not let in the cool drafts when it is cold or heat when it is hot. Proper insulation makes it possible to achieve weather-tight spaces. Customizing your shower is another way builders can make your home more energy efficient. People have different washing needs and constructing yours to meet specific demands means there is no energy wastage.

Suitable Location

A home is only as ideal as the location allows it. You can’t just pick a spot in the woods and decide that is where your dream home is going to sit. A lot of factors will dictate how appropriate your home is. For instance, do you want the house to be on a slope or plain ground? How much tree cover is acceptable for your woodsy abode? You also have to consider the safety of the location. Even when you want your home to be secluded, evaluate the security options first.

The density of the vegetation around your home has a huge role to play. For one, it will contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the whole place. Some vegetation is easier on the eyes than others. The surrounding vegetation will also influence the climate around the home. Tall trees mean you have shades in the compound, but it also means dealing with debris in the gutters, on the roof, and around the outside of the home. The ignitability of the vegetation contributes to the safety of your home.

Climate

The weather patterns in forested areas get unpredictable at times. When constructing a house in such a place, have an idea of what to expect in terms of weather. For instance, if it is a rainy area, then your house needs to be designed for it. If it is too windy, you will need a stronger roof than most.

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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