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Home Building on an Island

Building on an Island

In this Original Build Series, a mainland custom home builder embarks on a mission to build a new custom home on an island 12 miles offshore. How will he navigate the logistics and build a home in a reasonable amount of time? How does concrete and lumber get out to the island?

These are just a few of the many challenges Wade, principal of WKP Construction will face as he sets aim to build a high-performance home out at sea. With frequent cancellations of ferries and grounding of small planes due to weather, how will this impact the build? Where does the workforce come from since the island is extremely limited with tradesmen and tradeswomen? There are so many questions and challenges. As Wade says "nothing is going to be easy, and we're prepared for that." Block Island is a harsh environment. Homes get battered with salty air, wind, and storms. It's just another challenge for Wade's team to build a home that is going to withstand the elements and last for generations to come.

Episodes

Episode 1: Demolition and Site Prep Logistics

Episode 1    

On the next episode, Wade will tackle the challenges of logistics, demolition, and concrete manufacturing on the island as he begins to build a new custom home.

Episode 2: Concrete and Foundation Wall Footings

Episode 2    

Building on an island presents unique challenges for concrete production, logistics, and timing due to ferry restrictions and other factors. Stay tuned for an inside look at the process.

Episode 3: Foundation Waterproofing and Drainage Boards

Episode 3    

Wade highlights foundation waterproofing, drainage boards, and closed-cell spray foam for a dry basement in a rainy, waterfront location on the island build.

Episode 4: Framing, Roof Trim Details, and a Spray Foam Basement

Episode 4    

Despite facing storms, the team makes progress on the house with walls and roof sheathing. Wade and Matt discuss using crushed stone and spray foam insulation for the basement.

Episode 5: Coastal Windows (Installation and Key Differentiators)

Episode 5    

Wade and Don discuss high-performance coastal windows for an island build, including benefits of durability and low maintenance, with a live installation demonstration.

Episode 6: Framing Wrap-up

Episode 6    

Wade and his team are focusing on mechanical, plumbing, and electrical aspects of the build, including deck construction and a tiered retaining wall due to elevation change. Coordination between subcontractors is key.

Episode 7: HVAC - Compact Ducts and other Unico Benefits

Episode 7    

Tune in to see the progress on the job site, learn about Unico heating and cooling systems, and discover the flexibility of modular solutions for your home.

Episode 8: Plumbing with Legend's SmartClick System and weatherproofing the Deck

Episode 8    

Learn about Legend's HyperPure piping and SmartClick fitting system to streamline deck construction and reduce installation time and tools needed. Visit legendvalve.com/smartclick for more information.

Episode 9: Final Framing and Two Additional Projects

Episode 9    

Wade and his team work on slate, Queen Anne renovation, and their own project, facing supply chain issues and ensuring warranty compliance for the Huber ZIP system.

Episode 10: Sidewall Cedar Shingles & the Island Power Grid

Episode 10    

Learn about shingling, water drainage, and powering an island in the latest episode of Building on an Island with Wade and Dan from WKP Construction. Sign up for the newsletter!

Episode 11: Logistics and Island History

Episode 11    

Before larger ferries, Block Island managed freight through smaller boats. If crew is short on supplies, they can order more or get assistance from nearby suppliers.

Episode 12: Stone Veneer, Electrical Rough-in, and Gas Piping

Episode 12    

The stone veneer from Delgado Stone is being installed on the exterior, while electrical and gas piping are almost complete. Insulation and wallboard are up next.

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