Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Does personal_space come in any "modern" style?

A. Yes. Any personal_space can be configured with a flat roof utilizing a commercial grade EPDM (rubber) that should last 20 years or more. These models are prpduced with a vented soffit overhang.

Q. Is personal_space stick built or panelized pre-fab construction?

A. We currently pre-fabricate p_s using the "stick built" 2X4 or 2X6 stud construction but we are looking into offering panelized ,odels that can be shipped assembled or flat shipped for assembly on site. Please email us if you have an interest in panelized or kit personal_space.

Q. How will my personal_space delivered?

A. In the case of the smaller units, such as 8 X 8', 8 X 16' or 12 X 12' and 12 X 16', personal_space, they can be shipped via flat bed truck on 4X4" pressure treated skids which can then we winched or dragged into place or lifted and lowered by crane to attached lift points.

Q. What kind of foundation do I need?

A. In some cases, such as the smallest Little House (8 X 8') you may be able to place p_s on concrete blocks that have been leveled on a shallow gravel base. There is also a clever system manufactured in Gig Harbor, Washington called Pin Foundations which allows lighter weight decks and structures to rest upon "foundations on grade." These are diamond shaped concrete supports that are secured to the ground by driving several metal pins (or pipes) through pre-cast holes in the concrete directly into the ground.

Alternately, you may place p_s, as needed, upon a concrete slab (in temperate regions) an actual crawlspace with foundation walls that are either block-built or poured, or by design upon an existing foundation. Your local building department can advise on local codes and permits required and we can also get this information for you to assist in your placement of a personal_space.

Q. What if I want to attach a personal_space to my existing house?

A. This would typically qualify as an addition to your existing structure and would need to conform to local codes for proper compliance. All personal_space structure is designed and built with this in mind and we can provide inspection and certification as needed to your local authorities.

Q. Speaking of compliance...what about heating, plumbing, electricity?

A. You may want a personal_space that is uninsulated or unheated for use as a studio or workshop--which we call Raw Space and pricing is quoted separately. However, p_s comes with basic wiring for light and small appliances (heater, computer, AC, etc.) and can be odered with upgrades to include plumbing, kitchen and bathroom fixtures and additional electrical capacity. You are responsible for hiring a local, authorized sub-contractor to assure that you have adequate electrical and plumbing service that can be tied into. However, these are actually pretty basic issues that can easily be addressed.

Q. What if I want to use a personal_space for my sole dwelling or guest house?

A. Again, this question would have to answered by your local building department, but generally a single dwelling on a given lot or piece of property is required to be a minimum of X-number of square feet, with adequate utilities and septic for the size of the dwelling based on the number of bedrooms.

In other cases, for those who may want personal_space for a hunting cabin, ham radio shack, workshop or studio, the usual restrictions and codes may not apply! It's easy to find out with a phone call or two in advance.

Q. Are personal_spaces energy efficient?

A. Yes! personal_space can be built to be as efficient (or far more energy efficient) than a typical "house." We are very meticulous about insulating and sealing the shell of each p_s, so that it uses very little electricity or other energy source to keep warm or cool. With rising energy costs seeming to be a way of life, we think it's both a conservative and plain smart way to go. A small personal_space could conceivably cost as little as $15-20 a month to heat during cold weather. We can specify and build in R-Value (the rating system for determining he amount of heat loss that can be expected) for any climate! And, save a you lot of money in the process.

Q. What are some of the other uses for personal_space?

A. personal_space can be anything you want it to be! A ham radio shack, a guest house or cottage, the ultimate playhouse (practice or recording studio), a love shack (privacy for harried adults), an office, a hunting retreat, a permanent place to stay on vacation property, a beach house, a house that's on stilts, a church, a meditation space, a space with no phones or fax, a totally wired work station, the ultimate bus stop shelter, at home on a barge,. Have any other ideas for personal_space? Email us your idea!

Q. Can personal_space be tailored to match or complement existing architecture?

A. Why not?

Q. What if I get a personal_space on my property and decide to move?

A. Take your personal_space with you. Or, if you don't need it ot wish to keep it, you can always sell it.

Q. What about sites that don't have septic or city sewers or other utilities?

A. A possible option would be to install a composting or incinerating environmental toilet. Water can be brought in and electricity can be provided by a generator in cases where the personal_space may have only light or temporary use, such as a remote retreat.