Hi everyone! I’m thrilled to share my latest project with you today – building the second floor on our off-grid home. As you may already know, we have been living in our cozy A-frame cabin for some time now, and it was time to expand our living space. Join me as I take you through the journey of adding a second floor to our humble abode. From initial planning to construction, I’ll be sharing all the ups and downs, challenges and triumphs. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive into the exciting world of expanding our off-grid living experience!

Building The Second Floor on Our OFF-GRID Home | A-Frame Cabin Addition

Introduction

I am thrilled to share the latest update on our journey to build our debt-free, off-grid house in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. Currently, we are living in an RV on our expansive 73 acres of land while we construct our dream home. It has been an incredible adventure so far, and we can’t wait to show you the progress we’ve made on the second floor of our A-Frame cabin.

The Importance of the Second Floor

When envisioning our off-grid home, we knew we wanted a space that could accommodate our growing family and provide room for guests. The addition of a second floor to our A-Frame cabin was the perfect solution. Not only does it increase our living space, but it also adds a unique architectural element to the overall design.

The Process of Building the Second Floor

Building the second floor of our off-grid home came with its set of challenges. We wanted to preserve the rustic charm of our A-Frame while ensuring it was sturdy, safe, and energy-efficient. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Designing the Floorplan: We worked closely with our architect to create a floorplan that maximized the space available while meeting our specific needs. This included adding additional bedrooms, a bathroom, and a cozy family room.

2. Structural Considerations: As with any construction project, ensuring structural integrity was a top priority. We added extra support beams and reinforced the existing framework to ensure the safety and stability of our second floor.

3. Energy Efficiency: Living off-grid, we strive to minimize our environmental impact. We installed energy-efficient windows and insulation to regulate the temperature and reduce our reliance on external power sources.

4. Construction Materials: Choosing the right construction materials was crucial in achieving the desired aesthetic and durability. We opted for reclaimed wood for the flooring and walls, adding a rustic touch to the overall design.

5. Interior Design: While the construction process was ongoing, we also focused on interior design elements. We wanted a cozy and inviting atmosphere, so we incorporated warm colors, comfortable furniture, and natural decor.

Showcasing Our Progress

Our main YouTube channel, “Wild Wonderful Off-Grid,” has been a platform for documenting our entire journey. From the early stages of clearing the land to the final stages of construction, we have shared every step of the process, including:

• Renovating our cafe: In addition to our home build, we also renovated a nearby cafe, which has become a gathering place for the local community. We take pride in our ability to repurpose existing structures and breathe new life into forgotten spaces.

• Operating short-term rentals: To generate income and support our off-grid lifestyle, we have ventured into short-term rentals. We transformed a few of our outbuildings into unique and eco-friendly accommodations, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience off-grid living firsthand.

• Running our farm-based business: As advocates of self-reliance and sustainability, we also run a farm-based business. From organic produce to handmade goods, we work tirelessly to ensure our business aligns with our off-grid lifestyle and values.

Conclusion

Building the second floor of our off-grid A-Frame cabin has been an incredible feat, requiring creativity, perseverance, and commitment to a sustainable lifestyle. We couldn’t be happier with the result and are excited to welcome friends, family, and visitors to our new space. It’s not just a house; it’s our home, reflecting our values and the life we have chosen.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Are you still living in the RV while constructing the second floor?
   Yes, we are still living in our RV on our 73 acres of land while we build the second floor of our off-grid home. It adds to the excitement and adventure of the process.

2. What is the purpose of your secondary YouTube channel, “Josh & Erin- The After Show?”
   Our secondary channel focuses on our business ventures and real estate investments. We share tips, advice, and behind-the-scenes footage of our various projects.

3. Can you provide more information about the 1 year supply of Vitamin D + 5 travel packs you offer?
   Absolutely! With your first purchase, we provide a 1-year supply of Vitamin D supplements to support your health and well-being. We also include 5 travel packs for added convenience.

4. Where can I find the apparel shop and products you use?
   You can find our apparel shop and links to the products we use on our website. We offer a range of clothing items and provide recommendations for cameras, tools, and boots that have been essential to our off-grid lifestyle.

5. Do your videos only focus on the house build or cover other aspects of your journey?
   While our main channel showcases the progress of our house build, we also delve into other aspects of our journey. This includes renovating our cafe, operating short-term rentals, and running our farm-based business. We aim to provide a well-rounded view of our off-grid lifestyle.