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Summary

part 2 of a 2 part podcast

Paul continues talking WOFATIs with Todd.

Coming back to Todd's build: Paul asserts that were he building it, he wouldn't put concrete in under the posts.  However he does acknowledge there isn't yet enough data on WOAFTI builds, the whole design is still being developed.

Speaking more generally, Paul asserts that to build version 3 of a thing, you need to have versions 1 and 2 for comparison.  One reason for the problems at Allerton abbey was that the roof was made too thick initially, for example.  The greenhouse is also proving the annual thermal inertia model, so far it has yet to reach freezing inside, and also is less prone to overheat in summer.

Todd asks for any other "don't do this" advice for building a WOFATI.  Paul says that in hindsight they would've built them with running water, a functional kitchen and shower.  In the case of Allerton abbey the toilet is about 100ft away, and that can be an issue in bad weather.  Cooper cabin has the indoor willow feeder installed which is likely the way any further cabins will be made.

He also touches on solar power systems.  There have been various "home-made" solar systems over the years, but they tend to be unreliable and harder to fix than bought-in systems, so the saving on cost tends not to persist long-term.

Todd mentions wing walls and Paul has some ideas for what might be good in a future build, and some issues arising from incorrect builds - Todd recalls the first berm shed build about which he was doubtful.  Paul says the problem is he wasn't on site enough, combined with people who had more optimism than knowledge.  

The main issues with Allerton abbey have been caused by drainage issues due to build errors.  Being paranoid about drainage is key.

Relevant Threads

Wofati engineering questions for Paul - real world applications and experience

Devious Experiments with a Truly Passive Greenhouse - full movie

the first wofati - allerton abbey- version 0.7
Wofati and Earth Berm forum

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This podcast was made possible thanks to:

Dr. Hugh Gill Kultur
Kyle Aster
Sasquatch
Bill Crim
G Cooper
Mehron Kugler
Bill Erickson
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Sean Benedict
Rita Bliden
Brent Lawson
Song Zheng
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David Lucey
Janelle
thomas adams
Clay McGowan
Shay Riggs
Dr. Jackie
Keith Kuhnsman
Cindi Duehmig
Banter Couch
Eric Tolbert
Paul Tipper
Paul F
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