I used ICF but took the forms and sill about 60 inches above grade so that my basement windows could provide direct light - also I didn't have to excavate too low and got my main floor walk-out to a deck etc. I also used only 6x2 studs on all walls (exterior and interior) to allow for more insulation which I think provides the cheapest energy return you can buy.
Presumably you will place pex coils over styrofoam insulation before you pour the basement slab. So far I am impressed with "InLine" Fiberglass windows I purchased. Did lots of research and found that ALL brands (Pella, Andersen etc) had some failure rate ... but InLine seemed clean (so far) I have Pella in one property and they are only "average" at best. Won't buy them again ... also note that it seems that each brand has various quality levels. Personally I avoid casement and have stuck to sliders .. simple... they work and they lock up fine. With casement -it isn't IF but WHEN the winders will fail! (PITA). Incidentally I ran a footing down the centre line of the basement to give me lots of support for the floor above and also .. with the 3d software I could see where the second floor balcony could use some support and ensure that I could carry the load right through to the footing we preplaced. I am sure to anybody with experience this is obvious but was a useful "eureka" moment for me.
Some of the toughest issues for me were placing stairs cause they always seem to ruin the nice open space you thought you had.....
I am finding this thread and Haystax (and others) comments very informative!! I am still trying to put finishing touches on mine for this summer!!
Presumably you will place pex coils over styrofoam insulation before you pour the basement slab. So far I am impressed with "InLine" Fiberglass windows I purchased. Did lots of research and found that ALL brands (Pella, Andersen etc) had some failure rate ... but InLine seemed clean (so far) I have Pella in one property and they are only "average" at best. Won't buy them again ... also note that it seems that each brand has various quality levels. Personally I avoid casement and have stuck to sliders .. simple... they work and they lock up fine. With casement -it isn't IF but WHEN the winders will fail! (PITA). Incidentally I ran a footing down the centre line of the basement to give me lots of support for the floor above and also .. with the 3d software I could see where the second floor balcony could use some support and ensure that I could carry the load right through to the footing we preplaced. I am sure to anybody with experience this is obvious but was a useful "eureka" moment for me.
Some of the toughest issues for me were placing stairs cause they always seem to ruin the nice open space you thought you had.....
I am finding this thread and Haystax (and others) comments very informative!! I am still trying to put finishing touches on mine for this summer!!
