Hello, it's TJ from Sanctified Homes. Today, I want to dive deep into the intricacies of building in rural areas. The allure of the countryside, with its vast open spaces and serene environment, is undeniable. But before you embark on your rural home-building journey, there are essential factors you need to consider. Let's explore them.

The Driveway: Your First Impression

One of the first things you'll need to think about when building in a rural setting is the driveway. It's not just about having a path leading to your home; it's about accessibility, especially during different seasons.

• Length and Material: Depending on the property's layout, you might need a short driveway or one that winds deep into the property. This driveway was dug out, layered with breaker rock, and then topped with crushed gravel. The length and type of materials used can significantly impact the cost.

• Culverts and Permits: If your driveway requires a culvert, remember to factor in its cost and the necessary permit. For instance, we had to put in a 40ft culvert for a property, which came with its own set of regulations and costs.

Septic Systems: Understanding the Ground

When you're far from city utilities, you'll need to set up your own waste management system. This is where septic systems come into play.

• Perk Test: Before deciding on the type of septic system, a perk test is essential. This test determines the soil's suitability for a septic system. Depending on the soil analysis, you might opt for a mount system, gravity-fed system, or other types.

• Cost Variations: The cost of installing a septic system can vary. While some systems might cost around $15,000, others, like the mounting system we recently installed, went up to almost $23,000.

Water Source: Drilling a Well

Another crucial aspect of rural building is ensuring a reliable water source. In many rural settings, this means drilling a well.

• Depth and Cost: The cost of drilling a well can vary based on how deep you need to go and if there are any obstructions like rock formations. On average, you might spend around $15,000, but this can fluctuate.

Site Preparation: More Than Just Clearing Trees

Choosing the perfect spot on your property for your home requires more than just clearing trees. It's about ensuring the land is suitable for construction.

• Grading and Compacting: If your chosen site is on a slope, you might need extensive grading to create a flat surface. Additionally, if you're building on freshly moved soil, compacting is crucial to ensure stability.

• Understanding the Slope: A significant slope can pose challenges. Remember, you can't go over a 10% grade slope. This means for every 100 ft, you can't rise more than 10 ft.

Final Remarks

In conclusion, building in the countryside is a dream for many. The tranquility, the connection with nature, and the vast open spaces are incredibly appealing. However, it's essential to be prepared and understand the unique challenges that come with rural construction. With the right knowledge and a bit of preparation, you can make your rural home-building dream a reality.

If you're inspired to embark on your rural home-building journey, don't hesitate to dive deeper into the process with us. Explore the wealth of information we offer at Wisconsin Home Build and get more insights from our Blessed to Build blog. For visual enthusiasts, our Sanctified Homes YouTube channel offers a plethora of videos that can guide you further. We're here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring you make informed decisions for your dream home.