Earthbag Root Cellar Build | Off Grid Food Storage (Part 2)

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  • Опубліковано 25 лип 2019
  • We complete the underground earthbag root cellar and review the cost to build an invaluable structure on our Alaskan homestead as well as head down to show you the inside.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 2 тис.

  • @deanhatch4179
    @deanhatch4179 3 роки тому +243

    As someone who has had a root cellar for years, I have one tip.
    When your jars have sealed, remove the rings and dip the tops 2-3 times in wax. It will prevent the lids from rusting in the high humidity and then having the seal fail.

    • @johnjohnson-sm3yf
      @johnjohnson-sm3yf 3 роки тому +6

      I recently thought of the rust on the lids . That’s a good idea thanks

    • @Wolf_Momma14
      @Wolf_Momma14 3 роки тому +3

      How do you get the wax off later?

    • @deanhatch4179
      @deanhatch4179 3 роки тому +2

      Just scrape it off

    • @stevens69411
      @stevens69411 3 роки тому

      can you not use lids that dont rust?

    • @deanhatch4179
      @deanhatch4179 3 роки тому

      If you can find stainless steel lids, they would not rust as quickly. I don’t believe the expense would be worth it, if you could find them.

  • @skeets6060
    @skeets6060 5 років тому +29

    Son I think you got a keeper there treat her nice !

    • @dayrawls3365
      @dayrawls3365 3 місяці тому

      Indeed he does. She is a hardworking woman.

  • @GreekVikingRestoration
    @GreekVikingRestoration 4 роки тому +13

    I built a root cellar in northern Minnesota. To battle the cold I built a greenhouse over it. Use the greehouse to regulate temperature and pump out your incoming water directly into a holding tank to water from. This also helps prevent accidently driving over your roof.

  • @gaspardaltus
    @gaspardaltus 4 роки тому +7

    It does my old heart good to see a young couple working together like this nowadays. Best of luck to both of y'all.

    • @SimpleLivingAlaska
      @SimpleLivingAlaska  4 роки тому

      Altus Gaspard thank you very much we appreciate your support :)

  • @freechagosislandjohnpilger
    @freechagosislandjohnpilger 4 роки тому +281

    also, bend the corners of that tin lid, cause at night or walking past you will bump into it and slice your legs in a instant, i work with the stuff every day and is razor sharp

    • @Paul-gz5dp
      @Paul-gz5dp 4 роки тому +4

      True, and foam is a much better thing to use as it is lightweight and insulates.

    • @nunyabuisness7552
      @nunyabuisness7552 4 роки тому +6

      It should be hinged without an overhang at the hinged end and add a large rubber weatherproof seal to prevent any water running back under the metal.

    • @stibbs11
      @stibbs11 4 роки тому +2

      Or, you can let it rust first, then the cut will get infected etc . .

  • @vdwalt4464
    @vdwalt4464 5 років тому +142

    Suggestion 567,231: An overhead bar above entrance to use pullies, rope and bucket to safely raise and lower goods with.

    • @robertsantiago4329
      @robertsantiago4329 5 років тому +6

      Them bags don't hold up to the elements that well they will Rot out probably within a year or 2 I've been in the construction business for over 30 years

    • @samkom33
      @samkom33 5 років тому +16

      @@robertsantiago4329 without SUNLIGHT, those bags will last a lifetime. hehe
      but as the bags gets weaker, the stampd earth will harden,, ONLY an earthquake ore the roof beams rotting would destroy that structure

    • @vdwalt4464
      @vdwalt4464 5 років тому +22

      @@robertsantiago4329 We have a 25 year old 5' high sand bag retaining wall that was stuccoed to keep the UV off them. We're in Michigan.

    • @cv12steve74
      @cv12steve74 4 роки тому +4

      Great idea - something on the side opposite the ladder top to avoid passing jars up/down one at a time, or trying to carry crates-fulls up and don the ladder.
      Add two more elbows to vent and no worries about rain getting in, just screen for pests and a cap for temp.

    • @avid0g
      @avid0g 4 роки тому +11

      Earthquakes will vibrate the soil into a paste-like liquid which will push inwards on the sandbags. A flood can do the same. This problem can be reduced by sloping every sandbag and the entire sandbag walls at the natural angle of repose \__/! Readers, please also consider building your cellar in a round (and conical) or at least polygonal shape to strengthen the walls into tangential compression.
      I have seen hundreds of retaining walls made of concrete, block, or ties that have *tilted out* after construction because they were _not built _*_tilting into_*_ the earth!_ Of course, frost heave has some to do with that as well...

  • @atkpirate7831
    @atkpirate7831 4 роки тому +31

    You two should be really proud of yourselves. Not everyone can do this stuff

    • @josephspruill1212
      @josephspruill1212 7 місяців тому

      There are a lot that is able! They think they are disable because of a disability! We let our disabilities define us. Where some ppl won’t let their disability define them.

  • @rontsang4308
    @rontsang4308 2 роки тому +5

    For someone that lives in urban environment all my life, the build is obviously very impressive. What strike me more is the true partnership between the two of you, it's much more impressive than any of the projects I've watched you guys took on over the last 2 years. Hats off.

    • @rickconnock7578
      @rickconnock7578 Рік тому

      It's not much different than the urban life. It's a little more physical but you have to work to get anything.. You have to work to get anything.

  • @billnowlin9148
    @billnowlin9148 5 років тому +99

    Great Job!!! You are not NEARLY afraid enough of a chainsaw!!!! Eyes, Ears, feet, and legs are hard to grow back!

    • @PeterLawton
      @PeterLawton Місяць тому

      I noticed the foot pushing down on the log she was cutting, and I was waiting for the chainsaw to bind. Then there was a video jump cut. :-) I learned the same lesson about binding the hard way. Experience is a good teacher.

  • @texaswoc3461
    @texaswoc3461 4 роки тому +72

    I love watching young people work! Great job! And the young lady is a true blessing to you young man. Don’t ever take her for granted. It’s hard to make it through life without a good partner. I’m happy for you both.

    • @Messenger4now
      @Messenger4now 3 роки тому +5

      Amen to that!

    • @jameskirton4469
      @jameskirton4469 2 роки тому +4

      And the young man is a true blessing to you young woman. Don’t ever take him for granted.
      Why him why not both ?

  • @uncleray3354
    @uncleray3354 3 роки тому +1

    Great vid, I was raised in Alaska from 1945 (still a territory). We built our cabin{s} over a root cellar, witch also doubled as a safety room should a bear get in. The part with power tools....... My GOD! Saftey, Safety, safety, even the smallest injury could fester, infect and become life threatening. But, thanks for the memories!

  • @mountain-milk
    @mountain-milk 4 роки тому +131

    When I have seen this style of build in the past the walls were internally braced or built slanting outward (like this: \_/ ) rather than vertical to prevent the wall from collapsing in on you over time. Especially in Alaska where you have a major freeze and thaw every year which causes lots of soil/ground movement. Stay safe.

    • @OrchMC
      @OrchMC 3 роки тому +8

      This is the only thing I could think of watching the video...
      "they're doing the bracing.... next... right...?"

    • @marymdavis3189
      @marymdavis3189 2 роки тому +2

      I'm surprised they don't use the tires as a stabilizer.

  • @newdogatplay
    @newdogatplay 5 років тому +154

    Take the bark off to slow down bugs from eating the logs

    • @verteup
      @verteup 4 роки тому +8

      @@lindanwfirefighter4973 hardwood is different than birch/pine. Any birch/pine should be debarked. Pine especially.

    • @georgemckenzie2525
      @georgemckenzie2525 4 роки тому +2

      Yeah a bit late but you are right

    • @nunyabuisness7552
      @nunyabuisness7552 4 роки тому +2

      They left the bark on fence posts on other videos also. I was a bit shocked.

    • @graniteridgegreens6278
      @graniteridgegreens6278 4 роки тому

      Yes in that high humidity mold will form between bark and logs.

    • @jonathananthonyhumphries2486
      @jonathananthonyhumphries2486 4 роки тому

      Fungus

  • @schaefercofarm2584
    @schaefercofarm2584 5 років тому +45

    Realy like your videos. As I was a carpenter I just wanted to let you know that if you put small blicks under each tred they will be more sturdy. Especialy the the ones you plop down on. If they go from bottum of tred to top of the next one down they will WAY stronger than you will need for some time. as they are, I,ve seen those fail easily so i had to mention. Wish yous the best in filling the celler. Jon

  • @wittgal382
    @wittgal382 4 роки тому +2

    This is FAMILY! Peace to your home! 👍

  • @deanbeach8748
    @deanbeach8748 4 роки тому +3

    Watching the teamwork between the 2 of you makes my heart happy, reminds me of good times with my ex. NEVER let go of that, ALWAYS remain a team.

  • @sandhollowhomestead6972
    @sandhollowhomestead6972 5 років тому +7

    1.5 weeks! Wow! You guys are awesome! Oh to be young again! It really looks good and I'm sure you;'ll learn alot as you use it and you can teach us something. Thanks so much for sharing!

  • @thebeardedone1225
    @thebeardedone1225 4 роки тому +3

    That's what I like to see in a young couple. Teamwork. Great Job you two! It looks awesome.

  • @Nathanfx2006
    @Nathanfx2006 4 роки тому +4

    You're living the life i wish i could of had. At least it makes me happy knowing other people lived well.

  • @josephmarrsmarrs1
    @josephmarrsmarrs1 4 роки тому +4

    I have a small farm in Utah I know what kind of work this is and I have to say you all are just amazing

    • @SimpleLivingAlaska
      @SimpleLivingAlaska  4 роки тому +1

      Joseph Mars thanks! It is hard but we couldn't imagine it any other way :)

  • @FishOnIsMyHandle
    @FishOnIsMyHandle 4 роки тому +18

    I've been building earthbag root cellars for 37 years and one thing you really should have considered is to have a shot of whiskey when you finished

    • @headhunter257
      @headhunter257 7 місяців тому +1

      Hahahah I'm just watching this today. I was gonna get mad, then just started laughing. Good joke!

  • @jeffstrong4311
    @jeffstrong4311 5 років тому +3

    Maybe you and Eric could figure a tripod over the opening where you could lower a box to move the canned goods in and out and it could sit to onside when not in use. As for keeping the snow off the top, a grow mat that is 3 feet wide and whatever the distance is from the steps to the access point. Now about the ladder, I suggest some mineral roofing or shingles on the tread for traction. Snow and bare would equal bruised shins. As for your vent pipe, in the RV world, they have these weather vain caps for the vents they are covered and direct the gases in the direction of the wind just like their woodstove cousins direct the smoke in the direction of the wind. They are made of plastic cost about $10.

    • @SimpleLivingAlaska
      @SimpleLivingAlaska  5 років тому

      Jeff Strong thanks for the tips!

    • @trinaevans5778
      @trinaevans5778 4 роки тому

      Simple Living Alaska I would love to know how the walls hold up in the long run ie leaning. I’m starting my water cistern here shortly and then the root cellar for the house. I was worried about outside pressure on straight walls from the weight of the dirt. Where we live now doesn’t have the freeze that up there does but similar soil composition and our wet is from rain season not thaw. I look forward to your update. We should be totally off grid in a few yrs.

  • @PatrickGodreault
    @PatrickGodreault 4 роки тому

    I respect your opinion. This is wake up call.. all i ever wanted in this life is peace... good luck and be safe...

  • @robertmoats1890
    @robertmoats1890 3 роки тому +1

    You guys seem to be a positive and energetic couple. Its great how you share the responsibilities of the project. Don't ever stop doing that, if you can help it. It will keep your relationship bundled up in positive energy. I'm normally a loner, but now I'm envious of your dynamics.

  • @danthompson1m
    @danthompson1m 5 років тому +19

    Great videos, both of them. As others have noted, you do want a bend in the air pipe so that the opening is facing down, and you will want to put 1/4 inch mesh over it to deter rodents.
    You may want to fit this for a storm/fallout shelter also (hammocks, water, waste control and hygiene, air pump, fallout meter), just in case. You could have all that ready to be taken into the space in one go. Sheltering from fallout for two weeks after an event halfway around the world could mean the difference between life and death. Small farmers and subsistence should also consider having covered topsoil reserves in case of contamination.
    The sump is a wise idea.
    Good work, you two. This is how we do it.

  • @jimsenior403
    @jimsenior403 4 роки тому +3

    I agree with Ron. The saw can't tell the difference between bone and wood.
    I do appreciate the work you have done.

  • @EngineerMikeF
    @EngineerMikeF 4 роки тому +47

    1. Bend at the knees, not the butt & back if you want your spine to last, I'm old, I know. 2. Aspen isn't the worst wood for rot resistance, but it's close, especially if it's in contact with earth, so you'll likely be replacing the roof regularly. 3. The barbed wire imo is useless. If there is enough sidewall pressure to push the bags you'll see the wall bulge. 4. Your best protection against a lot of moisture is excellent surface drainage control sending runoff well away from where it will infiltrate near the cellar (one reason a root cellar works well under a house w/roof on it). Best of good luck, you two are tough!

    • @ericwilson8848
      @ericwilson8848 3 роки тому +1

      Yes I seen another video using barb wire n I could see how it wood help

  • @BEAdventurePartners
    @BEAdventurePartners 3 роки тому +4

    This makes our hearts so happy! It is awesome to see you two work so well together. It's the most beautiful thing to flow with your partner and create something together.

  • @donnburge9774
    @donnburge9774 5 років тому +12

    the snow load on top will help insulate the cellar, i have the same metal racks need rubber mat on shelves and a edge to keep jars from sliding of during shakers, we had a 5.5 where my jars hit the floor , i built the shelve boarder and it saved all my stuff from that last 7.1, nice job on the build, the $50 solar motion light from lowes would work awesome in cellar, i have 5 of them on my property.. again awesome job..

    • @sherry2836
      @sherry2836 5 років тому +1

      I was thinking the same thing about earthquake safe shelves.

  • @greenrage2484
    @greenrage2484 5 років тому +7

    I was looking forward to part 2 :) that was amazing.. I loved everything that you did.. Wondering about the chute and how much cold that will bring in.. but I guess time will tell. I thought the metal shelving was a good decision. Cinder block takes up a lot of space. Many people have a "refrigerator" hole - sending stuff down by a pulley to keep food cold. I can imagine that your little cellar will be that same temperature. Fantastic job.. you two.. I admire people who aren't afraid of a little work.. You will be so happy for it, and you should be proud.. thanks for taking us along..

  • @alienh1701
    @alienh1701 4 роки тому +125

    Neat build, but just a couple of ideas. First, you should have peeled the bark off the trees for the roof. Insects love bark and it will rot. Second, the seams on several of the bags line up vertically. You would get more strength by staggering the bags so that the seams do not line up. To late to do anything about that now, but for future use, there you go. One more thing. That you guys built that in a week and a half with just the two of you says a lot about how hard you work. Great job and I hope it serves you well for a long time. Thanks for sharing your journey!! Peace.

    • @schumerthd
      @schumerthd 4 роки тому +1

      Also, tape the seams around your house wrap. Tar works wonders for weather proofing as well.

    • @ClayBlasdel44
      @ClayBlasdel44 4 роки тому +3

      Agreed. Peeled logs repel bugs and rot. Sandbagging dirt is hard work. A 90 degree elbow on the vent will serve as a rain cap. stuff the vent with a bit of mesh screen to deter bugs.

    • @lilsammich8252
      @lilsammich8252 4 роки тому +1

      They also make longer bags you can fill on top of the row once established. They did a great job in my opinion though.

    • @hughpatrick7317
      @hughpatrick7317 2 роки тому

      Watch “My Self Reliance” channel to see technics for preserving logs from rot and insects. He burns/torch’s the log for earth contact. Also, secure your shelves and jars from earthquake damage. We enjoy your channel and amaze ourselves at how much you know.

  • @mathiasstielzchen2227
    @mathiasstielzchen2227 4 роки тому +1

    So many comments on what people think should be done different... wow. Seriously guys, I just stumbled across your channel and I think you did a really great job! Never seen a built like that before. I think your general approach is very straight forward and effective. If you ever feel the walls might start to bend inwards you can still reinforce from the inside. Same goes for the roof.
    Keep going and greetings from Austria!

  • @richardgreen5602
    @richardgreen5602 5 років тому +57

    Put "hinges" on the access roof so can just lift one end and prop-up easily.

    • @theducklinghomesteadandgar6639
      @theducklinghomesteadandgar6639 5 років тому +10

      And possible a simple inexpensive i guess they are hydrolic arm like for a hood lift and hold usually $20 or less online! Lol!

    • @banditto1969
      @banditto1969 5 років тому +7

      that's a good idea. the ones for the tailgate of a full sized truck would work. best part is you can just drop it and it can be set up to automatically close slowly and careful.

    • @marshakery3511
      @marshakery3511 4 роки тому

      and a door, so you dont have to climb over that wall all the time

  • @sashkashurik
    @sashkashurik 5 років тому +8

    Thank you for sharing this project. Lots of ideas, lots of work etc.
    Two things though:
    1) House wrap = waste of your time and money. The house wrap is not water tight : it has small holes and water will pass through. It is designed to shed water if sufficient drainage and open space is provided. It will not work against a backfill of earth or in direct contact with wet/humid substrate. Breathability is not at all under discussion because there is nothing to breath into. Thick plastic is a better choice in this case. Combined with a good vent it should help with humidity control.
    2) Humidity control is a real issue in these types of builds. Metal shelving may or may not be a great idea: it can rust really fast. Hunt for plastic shelving and replace when you can.
    3) Raise a vent higher and put a glue-in(not threaded) P-Trap on a vent with a mesh: prevents rodents from entering the vent and avoids the elements, including snow from getting in and blocking the vent.

  • @Chuffin_ell
    @Chuffin_ell 4 роки тому +2

    You two have to be awesome people to give dirt bagging some respectability. Hope this endeavor gives many good returns. Thank you for sharing your story.

  • @raydirkin9107
    @raydirkin9107 4 роки тому +1

    Awesome food cellar, when some people hear off the grid they haven't a clue the work involved, it's all about the quality of life, great job, and you gotcha yourself a awesome hard working lady there.

  • @plantbasedprepper
    @plantbasedprepper 4 роки тому +4

    I'm loving your channel! You two are the perfect match and team and helping others with ideas! You mentioned it requires 2 people in order to fetch food. That's the one that got my attention because I'm planning to live off the grid with my wife and build our own cabin with a basement for food storage. I'd definitely make that lid something one person can open and close that is bear proof. Using a hinge or something should make it easier. If one of you gets sick or is out of town or something, you must be prepared to take care of each other or yourself.

  • @richardobannon6301
    @richardobannon6301 5 років тому +148

    I have been in industrial construction for 47 years and there is nothing I would have done any different than the job you all have done. Beautiful job.

    • @noobish3723
      @noobish3723 5 років тому +24

      You would have probably offset the sandbags more, like bricks.

    • @Utah_Mike
      @Utah_Mike 5 років тому +26

      Un treated logs with 90% humidity? Buried under 2 feet of dirt?

    • @brucea550
      @brucea550 5 років тому +6

      Agreed, except for probably using spruce logs instead of poplar.

    • @kevinlura6843
      @kevinlura6843 5 років тому +16

      You wouldn't fix that ladder?

    • @brucea550
      @brucea550 5 років тому +10

      Depends what he used for screws. You can get screws that are plenty strong and won’t shear. But, I’d worry about the wood splitting maybe. Better to have blocking under the steps.

  • @IMOO1896
    @IMOO1896 2 роки тому

    Ohmygoodness, every time I see your videos, you’re working so hard!

  • @rachelg9873
    @rachelg9873 4 роки тому +40

    Everyone else :helpful advice
    Me : Did you find any arrowheads or cool stuff? Fossils??

  • @blackpackhomesteadchrisand7337
    @blackpackhomesteadchrisand7337 5 років тому +5

    I think the root cellar was a wise decision. Thumbs up!

  • @lylebobroske5172
    @lylebobroske5172 4 роки тому +4

    What an awesome root caller. I've just stumbled onto your videos, and am so amazed at what the two of you are accomplishing togeather. And talk about interesting! I love watching. You must have such good energy from all the healthy food you eat and the good clean air you breathe. Thanks for letting me in.Karen from Canada.

  • @Amagnificent7
    @Amagnificent7 2 роки тому

    Hey you two. I must immediately say that you have quickly become my favourite go too site. I’m just watching you constructing the root cellar and underground storage area. Good idea at the time though.
    I’m supremely envious of your life style in Alaska. I have a flat on an island.
    Today my sister helped me leave the house for the first time, for a little local shopping.
    This was the first time I’ve gone out and walked a few yards or even left the house, for a year and a half.
    I’m very scared of Covid and that’s the reason I self isolated.
    My daughter was struck down by it a year ago and although the virus has left her, she is still trying to defeat the affects
    She was left with.
    Your in the right place. Alaska is fantastic and thank you both for showing us so much of it.
    The mountain Denali looks staggering, do you think maybe you could take us there someday??
    Good luck both of you.
    More fishing , shooting and logging please . Your dogs are lovely plus the chooks but please don’t get the pig.
    Best wishes my friends
    xrogxiowxuk🤪🇬🇧🤪

  • @traceyosterlind14
    @traceyosterlind14 4 роки тому +232

    Two things I have not seen mentioned in the comments already,
    1) earthquake strap those shelves ASAP. Y'all get some whoppers up there, and losing all your hard work would be a crying shame.
    2) make yourself some charcoal & keep a basket down there as a mold inhibitor.
    3) find if you can wax the jars as a rust inhibitor. I live in 70s% humidity and my lids rust like crazy. I am switching to taddler lids with mixed success.
    Okay, that was three things not two.

    • @uyhgar369
      @uyhgar369 4 роки тому +3

      The sand bags got the straps built in👍

    • @Ulfgarius
      @Ulfgarius 4 роки тому +5

      I hear you. I live in near 100% humidity (tropics) and I have gone over to stainless steel. Nothing else works.

    • @joybickerstaff194
      @joybickerstaff194 4 роки тому +3

      Ulfgarius Hello, who do u get stainless steel rings from? I never knew they existed. Thank u

    • @traceyosterlind14
      @traceyosterlind14 4 роки тому +2

      @@joybickerstaff194 Walmart, Amazon, etc. Google 'ball jar stainless rings'

    • @sstace69
      @sstace69 4 роки тому +2

      @@Ulfgarius yep, Im in florida, plenty humid. Basic cans rust.

  • @elizabethharttley4073
    @elizabethharttley4073 4 роки тому +4

    Wow what a laborious process.
    Lots of worthwhile ideas and suggestions from the comment section. I hope it works well for you and i look forward to the updates.
    Best suggestion- reinforcing those steps, the screws wont last long enough.

  • @MsApril29906
    @MsApril29906 5 років тому +59

    It’s SO refreshing to see both of you working so hard! So many channels I watch, has only the men doing the work. Y’all rock as a team. I’m female, by the way.

    • @deano.7533
      @deano.7533 5 років тому +6

      You'd like the "My Little Homestead" channel then. The 4 women (mom, 2 daughters, and a daughter in-law) definitely do their fare share of the heavy work. (except the very complicated carpentry like roofing, cabinetry, and so-on) So far the family has built something like 4 or 5 earthbag structures on their property... Plus a remodel on the main house was done with earthbags. They also built an earthbag cabin on another property they own in the mountains near their main property. All the children have their own individual earthbag building for a bedroom... I liken the entire desert property to the summer getaway for Santa's elves... You'll see what I mean if you check out the channel. They are pretty creative people (the bedrooms are top quality) they have the earthbag system of home building almost down to a science. Take care. sincerely, Dean O. :-I

    • @MsApril29906
      @MsApril29906 5 років тому +10

      alison webster And methinks you took it out of context. I’m talking about partnerships, don’t pull your feminazi junk on me; I don’t believe in that.

    • @MsApril29906
      @MsApril29906 5 років тому +2

      Dean O. I will definitely check them out! Thank you.

    • @deanoofficial4012
      @deanoofficial4012 5 років тому +2

      You'd like the "My Little Homestead" channel then. The 4 women (mom, 2 daughters, and a daughter in-law) definitely do their fare share of the heavy work. (except the very complicated carpentry like roofing, cabinetry, and so-on) So far the family has built something like 4 or 5 earthbag structures on their property... Plus a remodel on the main house was done with earthbags. They also built an earthbag cabin on another property they own in the mountains near their main property. All the children have their own individual earthbag building for a bedroom... I liken the entire desert property to the summer getaway for Santa's elves... You'll see what I mean if you check out the channel. They are pretty creative people (the bedrooms are top quality) they have the earthbag system of home building almost down to a science. Take care. sincerely, Dean O. :-I

    • @MsApril29906
      @MsApril29906 5 років тому +5

      Benaiah Ahmadinejad I hope this is a joke.

  • @Messenger4now
    @Messenger4now 3 роки тому +1

    I just adore you Ariel!! I look up to you and respect what you do! I'd be proud if I were Eric. He's got him a good woman!! Love you both from Florida!! ❤

  • @humantiger72
    @humantiger72 4 роки тому

    Super Job! For others considering this construction, I have a thought. While building the sandbag layers, At waist height or shoulder height, put in a 2x4, on all walls. Then when you want to hang something, you can drill/nail into something.

  • @KaleidoscopeJunkie
    @KaleidoscopeJunkie 5 років тому +4

    Herbs can be dried and sealed in Mason jars with Boveda packs.
    Or recycled glass jars that are dipped in wax after the lid is on. The wax, jars and lids can be used over and over.
    It works for Maker's Mark.

    • @brucea550
      @brucea550 5 років тому +3

      Now why would you waste a perfectly good jar, lid and wax on dry herbs when it could be holding Makers Mark? 😉

  • @ShansBackyardGarden
    @ShansBackyardGarden 5 років тому +5

    I'm so impressed and can't wait to see how it does during the winter and spring thaw.

  • @jamflu
    @jamflu 4 роки тому

    You folks are beyond awesome. I am a bachelor in Minnesota and people tease me on my 823 so ft home. Love the chickens.

  • @Neafatal
    @Neafatal 4 роки тому +7

    A good meant advice for your next shovel session from a guy who dug a big amount of holes preparing foundations (Garages mostly). Put the handle of the shovel on your thigh to use your bodyweight thrusting it in the dirt. I am getting serious elbowpain looking at the way you fill those bags :D. It is as well better for your lower back because you can use your thigh as a lever to pick up the full shovel. Hope the explanation made sense. Greetings and keep up the good work.

  • @davidperry2989
    @davidperry2989 5 років тому +8

    Plant grass seed and build up a thick turf or put thick wood chips. Build a couple of steps on the slope.

  • @DebbiesHomeplace
    @DebbiesHomeplace 5 років тому +11

    Wow you two, wow! Bless your hearts, that was the hardest thing I've seen Y'all do so far. No wonder you said what you did. But! Your hard work and dedication has paid off. This is a great build and looks amazing and yes, a true earthen root cellar, totally off-grid. I so hope it continues to do what you want it to do, it looks to do exactly that even if you have to do a few nip tucks along the way. Can't you put LED battery lights down there? I have a few of those that you press as needed to turn it on or off, you can attach them to the stairs and put one on each shelf. So proud of Y'all!

    • @SimpleLivingAlaska
      @SimpleLivingAlaska  5 років тому +4

      Sojourner we do have a few extra battery powered light switches for down there ☺

  • @redbird1824
    @redbird1824 4 роки тому

    I've got a root cellar under my framed cabin outside of squarebanks.Been there 15 years now.The three foot space between the cabin floor and 5 ft deep hand dug hole about 8ftx8ft was made up by plywood with strongbacks and large contractor bags full of wood shavings piles against the outside of plywood.Never had a problem with mice.Never had a problem.Yours is going to work fine and your hard labor will be well rewarded.Nice job!!!Don,t forget they are good for cooling down moosemeat.Free refrigerator .I,m going to quess yours will stay 40-33degrees year round once it adjust to normal temp.Great job!!!Whew!!My potatoes grew well this year!!!

  • @JosephDiveley
    @JosephDiveley 4 роки тому +4

    It's so great to see a husband and wife working so well together! I loved watching you two work.
    That being said, you really didn't have to dig into the ground like that. Using earth bags, you easily could have build it above ground or just gone in 4 feet and built it closer to the house and away from your greenhouse. So long as, you make the walls a good 2-3 feet thick you will gain that same constant temperature and you could then have a much larger space to store food with. You would also not have to worry about flooding from it either. Lastly with it being above ground you don't need stairs to get in with potential ice slips as you can just go in through a door. Just build your sandbag structure, use the same machine to just bury it and make a mound. Then once it's done plaster or cob against the bags for a better looking finish with less risk of tear on the bags. I mean I would hate to have to go down those stairs when you get older...
    Still I wish you guys great luck and success!

  • @rickrack78
    @rickrack78 4 роки тому +25

    Maybe add a pipe that runs to the floor and out to the same hight as the other vent pipe. Convection in the cellar will keep fresh, cooler air, going down this pipe as the warmer air escapes from the pipe you have already installed. That may also lower the humidity

    • @brianschoenrock601
      @brianschoenrock601 4 роки тому +4

      Please do this. In addition it will pump out the gasses that your potatoes and such will produce. I remember reading of a family that died because they were overcome as they went in to their cellar, one by one, by the gasses. They kept going to check on the previous family member and none of them made it out.

    • @kevinmoore2929
      @kevinmoore2929 4 роки тому +3

      The other pipe really needs to be in the corner where your shelves are. Putting them in the same area does you no good. The ventilation pipes really should be galvanized as PVC is easily breakable in cold weather.

    • @jackdurham5601
      @jackdurham5601 3 роки тому

      Great job guys.

    • @judd_s5643
      @judd_s5643 2 роки тому +1

      I think their trying to keep the cold air from pouring in!

  • @johnr8439
    @johnr8439 5 років тому +3

    Love the channel and what your doing. GREAT JOB! Ignore all the know it alls that have never built a root cellar.

  • @dayharper9637
    @dayharper9637 4 роки тому

    What I learned from the comments on this video:
    If I ever want to learn about building, I should make a video about something I'm building and all sorts of folks will come out of the woodwork and tell me SO MUCH about what to do and what not to do.
    Y'all are amazing! Cool video. Thanks for sharing and helping the rest of us learn. :)

  • @user-es1uu6lv5j
    @user-es1uu6lv5j 2 роки тому

    Вы просто молодцы! Смотрю Вас из России! Круто, это моя мечта жить как вы, в лесу среди природы! Удачи!

  • @smithfamilyhomestead1515
    @smithfamilyhomestead1515 5 років тому +3

    Thanks for making my dogs and I Friday night. Great video!! We always love seeing big happy dog and the other animals.
    Cheers from Arkansas!!

  • @codyarnold4299
    @codyarnold4299 5 років тому +4

    All the hard work is paying off

  • @squeezyjohn1
    @squeezyjohn1 4 роки тому

    That is bloody awesome ... I really want a root cellar ... but we hit fossilized coral at about 2 feet down here ... you should be so proud of your work ... $1300 for that is peanuts ... your hard work paid off!

  • @jenns6063
    @jenns6063 4 роки тому

    I just learned from Little Mountain Ranch that you DON'T want to double stack your cans because it can cause your seal to break. Chelsea suggested, if you MUST double stack, to put a layer of cardboard between the stacks. But best practice would be to not do it.
    This was so awesome to watch you two build this! Made me realize: you are young! So much effort went into this! You should be very proud! Thanks for showing us how to do it!

  • @judyofthewoods
    @judyofthewoods 5 років тому +4

    Congrats on the completion of your fabulous root cellar. I think the summer temperature of the root cellar will probably go down a bit in future. You've built it with warm dirt in the summer heat which is stored in the mass now until the winter will cool it down. Then the natural flywheel effect will settle in.

  • @sheilaarmstrong2743
    @sheilaarmstrong2743 5 років тому +9

    You should also put screen over the air vent to keep mice out. Nice job.

  • @carlsutherland3730
    @carlsutherland3730 3 роки тому +1

    I wanted to add I love this video.
    So much helpful advice might be taken as criticism, but I really hope you look at the big picture you got our attention and kept it.

  • @bellwetherfields6476
    @bellwetherfields6476 4 роки тому +1

    I love that you really talked about how much time this project took and how tedious it was. It is such a functional and straightforward type of build, but I have often found those to be the most time consuming and somehow exhausting. We just finished a huge plaster project in our cabin and it was also similar, mix the plaster and apply to the wall, not too complex but repetitive and at times seemed never-ending. Really enjoying your videos, thanks for sharing!

  • @neckofthewoods24
    @neckofthewoods24 5 років тому +40

    You guys need to insulate the hatch walls more. That 1.5” of wood only has an R valve of 1.88. Incase the hatch in at least 2” of foam that you can buy anywhere in 4x8 sheets, then incase that with plywood or OSB drilled through the OSB, through the foam and secured to the 2x4’s. That’ll give your hatch along with the way you did your roof an R valve of about 13 which is like any 2x4 home. Last add some siding to the OSB like a house to protect it.

    • @nonono4160
      @nonono4160 4 роки тому

      No insulation will help. Root cellars should be built below the level of freezing in the ground (in Alaska it can be as deep as 2-2.5 meters, i don't think they live in the permafrost area), otherwise it is just a basement. Root cellars need to maintain constant temperature and humidity, which is what helps to keep root veggies from sprouting. I can keep one in mine for almost the next harvest (just to clarify, i live in a pretty cold area, so i have only one harvest per year). In a cellar like this one they will probably start sprouting by the spring.

    • @neckofthewoods24
      @neckofthewoods24 4 роки тому

      Nonono with no insulation it’s no different than digging a basement and not putting a house up. The hole you just dug has assess to the ambient temperature which will make the hole the same temp. The sides of the walls will heat up and will not be ground temp anymore. Throw ice into a cooler and leave the lid open. Same affect. Ice will melt a lot fast. Put an insulated lid on and the ice stays ice for 4-5 days. In the summer that cellars gonna be a hot mess.

    • @nonono4160
      @nonono4160 4 роки тому

      @@neckofthewoods24 i meant as in "no amount of insulation will help since it is built within the freezing zone of the soil". I live in a similar climate, so i had experience with stuff like this.
      You can see in their new video that the walls have frost on them too, so insulation from above will not help noticeably, since the frost will spread from the sides as well. The only thing you can do is build below that level and since they have high water level in ground, tehy need to do some drainage or barriers for that if they want a good root cellar. Or build a mound.
      So yes, like we both said, it's not much different from regular basement without the house. And yes, when the snow thaws, i am not sure this little pump will help much.
      It is also pretty dangerous since ground in climate like this has habit of bulging and that cellar will eventually collapse, i just hope it will happen when they are not in it.

    • @prestonjacobs2519
      @prestonjacobs2519 2 роки тому

      P

  • @ronaldpetersen255
    @ronaldpetersen255 4 роки тому +65

    Informative video, great job!!
    One thing I urge you to do is invest in some protective gear when using a chainsaw!!
    I spent over a decade in SE Alaska with the USFS doing trail work and tree thinning and a chainsaw will mess you up in a blink of the eye!!
    Chaps, hard hat with protective screen n muffs, leather boots and leather gloves are a must operating a chainsaw!!
    We are all on a budget, but I guarantee you one visit to the ER will cost you 10 times the cost of protective gear!!!
    The pros use it for a reason👍

    • @gearjammer4779
      @gearjammer4779 4 роки тому +1

      Ronald Petetsen Oh chill out!
      You’re just a wimp! 🤓

    • @tealkerberus748
      @tealkerberus748 4 роки тому +11

      Gearjammer sooner a wimp with all parts present and correct than a he-man missing a leg, deaf, or blinded.

    • @rachelg9873
      @rachelg9873 4 роки тому +4

      My friend had to save her dad's life when he had an accident with a chainsaw. She was 12, now she's a nurse, which is pretty cool.
      Better safe and hot than bleeding to death in a matter of seconds. Because ACCIDENTS HAPPEN.

    • @rachelg9873
      @rachelg9873 4 роки тому +1

      Her dad lost part of one of his arms. It was a serious accident...and they lived 15 min from a hospital.
      Yay for girlscouts! Saved his life.

    • @bobbiefaler782
      @bobbiefaler782 4 роки тому +4

      I watched a guy using a Chainsaw to trim tree branches. He was standing on a ladder reaching up with the chainsaw! The branch broke and came down on him, he dropped the chainsaw. The chainsaw hit his arm on the way down! Chewed his arm up good! I was 18. I learned many lessons that day about chainsaws.
      1. Don’t do dumb stuff with a chainsaw.
      2. Protective gear!
      Very cool build!

  • @scotts595
    @scotts595 4 роки тому +2

    Construction mesh on your air vent- keep critters out 😉 Great Job!

  • @douglash.1268
    @douglash.1268 4 роки тому +2

    You guys are awesome. If you start getting mold down there, you can install a cheap bathroom fan on a timer, on that vent, to circulate fresh air in a few minutes a day.

  • @aaronjoseph7573
    @aaronjoseph7573 5 років тому +3

    Very well done. Might be worth putting a pulley/dolley/dumbwaiter in right above the stairs. Or even a simple bucket/rope to help carry things up and down.

  • @uhighsmith
    @uhighsmith 5 років тому +54

    Should put some angle iron in the corners of the steps (underneath) and bolt them. The shear strength of those screws are next to nothing. They are not meant for that type of work. Just a thought

    • @alane6555
      @alane6555 4 роки тому +2

      Even 2X4's nailed flat to the stringer below the steps would help provide strength.

    • @DasAlbatross
      @DasAlbatross 3 роки тому +1

      Or cut a notch with the circular saw and hog out the waste with a chisel. Anything but what they did

    • @carlsutherland3730
      @carlsutherland3730 3 роки тому

      My dad was in construction and braces everthing.

  • @legendsneverdie2901
    @legendsneverdie2901 2 роки тому

    You guys are living the dream. I want this so bad.

  • @verngib9041
    @verngib9041 4 роки тому +2

    Great idea!!!! If you decide to double stack those jars please include a barrier between the jar lid and the jar bottoms. Main reason is to prevent a false seal!!! If the jar goes bad, you dont want the jar to reseal. Same reason we remove our canning rings. Looks great and wish you well!!!

  • @RicSeabergsUseful-Information
    @RicSeabergsUseful-Information 5 років тому +14

    I mean just a killer effort guys rootin’ fer ya!;)

  • @wayneborowitz1564
    @wayneborowitz1564 5 років тому +36

    Ladder steps only held by screws, need blocking under each step or in time will loosen...Ouch!

  • @stibbs11
    @stibbs11 4 роки тому

    A few comments on this nice build:
    1. 2 X 3 opening is great for kids, many I know are "larger" so entering and exiting will be dificult in the coming years
    2. make a way to raise and lower a basket so you don't need to carry the food in or out
    3. You insulated the door but not the shaft of the opening, why not add a 2nd layer with poly between to stop air flow
    Love the idea and you did a nice job, the sump pump idea is a standard, glad you discovered it. cheers.

  • @fred101215
    @fred101215 4 роки тому +1

    I love all your meals! I would love more of these recipes that you guys whipped up, available online!! The potato and soups look so good and all the veggie/herb/spice mixtures!

  • @robertzachow
    @robertzachow 5 років тому +12

    Just a few tips from a old guy that I learned from my grandmother when I started out.
    Don't wash root vegetables before you store them.
    Store root vegetables in sand to prevent rot.
    Store last years ice and you will never need a refrigerator again.
    Hope these tips help you with your storage.

  • @m.d.e.845
    @m.d.e.845 4 роки тому +3

    Welcome to the combat engineers! You guys just built a bunker! A "root cellar" is a much better name and use of such a structure! I like the house wrap on the outside. Nice touch!

  • @HTHCLLC
    @HTHCLLC 4 роки тому

    Wow, such a great find. Not only a great video on a cellar build, But the "honest well intention" comments to help get over what you may not thunk of kinda stuff. God I love America. Best of luck and you have a new Sub. Please, keep recording. I so much want to see how this winter goes.

  • @jeffcardinal5434
    @jeffcardinal5434 4 роки тому

    Hello. We are your anchorage neighbors. Love camp around hatchers,Nancy lake,and south rolly a lot. We started your videos from your move up here. We are very impressed with your lives and videos showing your plans. Your friends and family must be so damn proud of you two.

  • @ricknelson3607
    @ricknelson3607 4 роки тому +4

    Awesome earth bag project. Just found your channel and I am loving what I see.

  • @vdwalt4464
    @vdwalt4464 5 років тому +21

    Used some 1/2" hardware cloth as shelf liners so the jars set even.

    • @theducklinghomesteadandgar6639
      @theducklinghomesteadandgar6639 5 років тому

      Oooo! I love this Idea!!! I also have some shelves that need a stronger and smaller grid shelving! Can attach with magnets if worried about it needing to come off regularly, otherwise wire it down or use the little clips one gets to build rabbit cages or traps out of the hardware cloth to attach!!

    • @vdwalt4464
      @vdwalt4464 5 років тому

      @@theducklinghomesteadandgar6639 Just the weight of your goods will keep it down. Without fastening the hardware cloth down it can easily be repurposed when needed.

  • @normanmcgill2369
    @normanmcgill2369 4 роки тому

    I so admire you young people doing projects like this by you're selves. It's a lot of work but it's way worth it. From the looks of your green houses it won't take any time at all before you fill the cellar up. You may wish you had made it bigger. Sometime when you have time I'd love to see more of your dogs and cats. They look like fun animals to watch. Good luck to you both.

  • @lilsammich8252
    @lilsammich8252 4 роки тому

    Got to give you guys props on all of the hard work you are willing to do for your homestead.

  • @alanm3438
    @alanm3438 5 років тому +6

    My back hurts just watching you. I guess when you are young and healthy, you can do things like that. It looks great and I hope that it works out the way that you plan.

  • @Servant_of_Christ
    @Servant_of_Christ 5 років тому +13

    Good job, two 90 degree bends on the vent, don't forget to protect it against critters.

    • @anniegaddis5240
      @anniegaddis5240 5 років тому

      Right! A bent over piece of hardware cloth held with a large arrow seal ought to do it!

    • @anniegaddis5240
      @anniegaddis5240 5 років тому

      Right. A piece of hardware cloth bend over the hole, held down with an arrowseal ought to do it.

  • @nomad5059
    @nomad5059 4 роки тому +1

    I bet her arms are seriously toned up after all that tamping. :) Very good job on this build, both of you !

  • @rodm5830
    @rodm5830 3 роки тому

    I could give you a thousand opinions about how I would have done this and that to make it better (in my opinion of course) but I won’t, because this is your project and you did it the way you felt best after doing all your research, and that is what makes it perfect. People used to dig a hole In the ground under the house with a dirt floor and walls and it worked just fine. I suspect yours will be great.

  • @davegc16
    @davegc16 5 років тому +65

    I would attach fronts to the shelves, Incase of earthquakes and think of making the shelving more secure just in case

    • @michaelkaylor6770
      @michaelkaylor6770 5 років тому +8

      We use Bungee cords for Earthquake mitigation. Just string them over-half the way up the jars on that shelf!

    • @cynthiahurry-asoulsearcher729
      @cynthiahurry-asoulsearcher729 5 років тому +6

      i think they can just flip their shelves over for a lip.

    • @michaelkaylor6770
      @michaelkaylor6770 5 років тому +4

      @@cynthiahurry-asoulsearcher729 I have the shelves and turning the shelves over may not work due to how the shelf, plastic bushing thing, and the vertical leg connect, but hey since I never tried it it may just work!

    • @TheSighphiguy
      @TheSighphiguy 5 років тому +4

      @@MaximusCommodus the biggest was 9.2 on March 27, 1964.

    • @TheSighphiguy
      @TheSighphiguy 5 років тому +6

      @@MaximusCommodus so you are operating under the premise that it can never happen again?

  • @ansomriding9542
    @ansomriding9542 5 років тому +268

    Put a screen over the vent as well to keep out rodents

    • @ivyshy98
      @ivyshy98 5 років тому +17

      that's an extra potential food source!

    • @ansomriding9542
      @ansomriding9542 5 років тому +6

      Yep just skin it gut it and salt it then hang it...🤔🤣😂🤣

    • @bodhi7945
      @bodhi7945 4 роки тому +4

      @@ambertracks kook alert

    • @gramursowanfaborden5820
      @gramursowanfaborden5820 4 роки тому +5

      honestly, most rodents are quite capable of digging tunnels through earth and indeed (in my experience) seem quite happy to chew through 1/16th inch plastic bins to get to food, so a couple of plastic bags aren't going to stop them getting into this thing anyway.

    • @pamwilliams9142
      @pamwilliams9142 4 роки тому +1

      Here's the plans to build that root cellar www.trackdok.com

  • @proudtobewhite9500
    @proudtobewhite9500 4 роки тому +1

    I talked to an old buddy of mine he's 97 years old they built root seller's very similar to yours in the 40s and 50s he said to get u a 5 gallon bucket of water and add 3 cups of Borax power and paint brush the hole inside of your seller once a year and u will never have any harmful mold even on the timbers. hope this is helpful.

  • @mamamongoose9657
    @mamamongoose9657 4 роки тому

    Just discovered your videos and I admire y'all's fortitude! Very inspiring!
    May I reiterate the need for safety gear when using a chainsaw? I ran a chainsaw while working for the state (DNR - forester and firefighter) for 12 years and around our house for ever; it is SO easy for something catastrophic to happen in a heartbeat. My thigh was saved by a good set of chaps a few times over the years. Ear protection, a helmet when necessary, chaps, good leather boots (preferably steel toe), quality eye protection, and even a shirt with kevlar shoulders (I knew a guy who's saw kicked back and sliced his shoulder wide open among other injuries) would be a good investment. 😊

  • @jeanmuehlfelt7942
    @jeanmuehlfelt7942 4 роки тому +5

    Have you thought about a railing around each shelf to help save the jars from earthquake tremors? Maybe even bungee cords in the short-term. ❤️

    • @JohnDoe-ff2fc
      @JohnDoe-ff2fc 2 роки тому

      I've been on bouts that use bungee cords.

  • @BreakingFreeOffGrid
    @BreakingFreeOffGrid 5 років тому +3

    You guys rock! Awesome job! I’m sure you’ll be enjoying the storage for years.

  • @TRINITY-ks6nw
    @TRINITY-ks6nw Місяць тому

    Proud of the two of you

  • @garyparkin2190
    @garyparkin2190 4 роки тому +1

    If you just put a 90 piece on top of the vent,and then a short connector piece and then an another 90,aimed down, that would a solution to having anything going your vent. You will have to keep the snow from blocking the air flow. It was enjoyable to watch your 2 videos on this topic. We have a winter place in N.Fla and have the opposite problem.