It struck me recently that this endeavor would not have been remotely possible pre-Internet, or even pre-YouTube. The ability to track down tutorials, instructional videos, and professional forum discussions on topics as diverse as structural engineering to how to stop a wedding (I kid you not).

And while the technology is the facilitator, content is paramount. A plethora of content created by regular people; sometimes in the service of profit, but seemingly more commonly just out of a desire to share their knowledge (although the cynic has trouble swallowing that and favors the former motivation).

So I’ve spent the last few weeks studying:

• Preparation of architectural diagrams
• Local planning and building regulations
• Surveying
• Demolition
• Operation of excavators
• Design of earth retaining structures
• Cantilevered retaining walls
• Concrete forms
• Steel reinforcement design and construction (aka detailing),
• Footing (foundation) design and concrete work
• Bricklaying and brick wall design
• Crane capabilities and local traffic control regulations
• Pool plumbing design (filtration, pumping systems, water velocities, pressure testing),
• Pool water chemistry
• Stone paving
• Tiling
• Drainage and drain design
• Fencing and electrical regulations
• Equipotential bonding
• Solar heating design and installation
• …

and many other topics.

Now it’s time to put it to use. But first, we will ensure the process is documented.

Next: documenting the process.