As the cost of living continues to rise, people look for more ways to save money. Many consider moving into tiny houses because these are less expensive. These are also easier to maintain than regular homes. Some people are willing to sacrifice living space for extra savings in their budget.
Building a tiny house is one of the most gratifying projects anyone can undertake. You have quite a few options as well. You can build fixed tiny homes on vacant lots, or go for tiny homes on trailers which you can tow on a road trip.
Mobile tiny homes are best for those who need to move around quite a lot. The materials for building tiny homes are quite inexpensive. You can even use reclaimed lumber for most of the woodwork.
Steps in building a 1000 sq. ft. tiny house – On wheels
There are available plans for building a tiny house. But most prefer designing one on their own to suit their needs.
Foundation
Many use trailers as the foundation for a mobile tiny house. These are sturdy and can carry heavy loads. It would be better to invest in a new trailer instead of using an older one. This ensures that the trailer is in good shape and could last long. The trailer should also have a leveling jack or jack stands for securing the trailer on the ground.
Fill the trailer bed with insulation such as polystyrene foam. This also cushions and supports the deck boards. Add thick side boards to the trailer’s sides to cover the metal frame. Next, layout the decking boards for the flooring.
Wall Frames
Build the frames for the walls using 2 x 4’s. The exact height depends on how high you want the tiny house to be. Make frames and add shims for the windows and doors as well. Cover the house with exterior grade plywood. The plywood will hold the exterior sidings later.
Roofing
Next, add the ridge beam using 2 x 6 or thicker lumber. This will support the rafters for the roof and should cover the entire length of the trailer. Build the frame for the loft and add in the decking. This makes it easier to add in the rafters for the roof.
Next, add the rafters for the pitched roof section. Continue adding the rest of the rafters. Add the plywood sheathing on top of the rafters and cover the plywood with tar paper or Rain and Ice shield. This helps protect the roof’s interior from the elements. Once the adhesive dries, install the sheet metal roofing.
Interior and Finishing
Continue building the wall frames for the bathroom and kitchen. Use 2×3 or 2 x 4’s for the frames. Next, install the exterior sidings and trim. Cedar, Pine and Cypress are some of the best woods for covering the exterior of the house. Install the windows and the doors afterwards.
Start installing the electrical and lights and fixtures. Next, insulate the walls with spray foam. Cover the walls with plywood or interior siding panels.
Proceed with the plumbing and install the water pump, heater, and water tank as well. Some tiny homes will have composting toilets too. Next, install the hardwood flooring, the deck floors and the tiles for the toilet.
From here, polish off rough surfaces and proceed with the finishing touches. Paint the exterior. Apply wood finish or paint to the interior then start decorating the living room.
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