#738: DIY Spray-Foam Kits, Affordable Siding, and Second-Floor Load Paths

Before becoming a GC, thoroughly understand the business realities, including potential liabilities, market demand, and financial planning, beyond just building skills.

Consider buying an established contracting business from an aging contractor to gain immediate access to a reputation, credit, equipment, and proven systems.

DIY two-part spray foam kits pose health risks (require full PPE), environmental challenges (disposal), and product failure potential due to off-ratio mixing from cooling tanks. Avoid them for critical applications.

LP SmartSide engineered wood siding is generally favored over fiber cement for its ease of installation, lighter weight, and wood-like workability, especially when installed with a rain screen.

For new load paths from upper floors to the basement, prioritize creating a new footing in the basement and consider using parallel strand lumber (PSL) columns for their dimensional stability and ease of integration, as often specified by engineers.

When working with engineers, provide feedback on preferred methods and materials (like PSLs) that are readily available and efficient for residential applications, to avoid over-engineering with commercial-grade solutions.