Chad's build log....
In 2004, I moved to a new home. While we're very happy where we live now, I made a big sacrifice when it came to the Cozy. There simple is no place to build here - there is no garage at all, and only interior door access to the (small) basement. For various reasons, the back yard is also out. I came very close to giving up my build dreams, and selling the project to a prospective builder.
I could never quite shake the dream, though. I started flying lessons, thinking that would help offset the loss, but they only made me long for the skies even more. I started researching other projects, trying to find things that I could build quickly, and with limited environmental control. I even (gasp!) considered buying a spam can!
What gave me the needed kick in the pants was John Slade, to whom I'll be either eternally grateful (assuming I ever finish the project). John has been considering starting a builder support service, and I asked him if he would be willing to help me out. He was.
The first thing John did was convince me to find a local build site. When it comes down to it, my REAL problem is that my build time needs to come during breaks during my work day (I work from home). Once the work day is done, I'm a daddy and a husband, and don't have time left over to build. I had briefly considered renting a space, then discarded the idea because I didn't think I'd get much done if I had to leave work and drive to the build site. I never considered doing BOTH there.
This is exactly what I'm doing now. I'm renting an industrial space, about 800 sq. ft. for $700 per month, and moving both the plane and my business over to it. In this step I've included the cost for two years' rent. It's pricey, but there are some advantages:
1. It's cheaper than building a garage (not that we have the space anyway).
2. I can write off the rent as a business expense.
3. The space is much larger than most garages - 20' x 40'. I could actually work on the Cozy with both wings attached.
4. The unit is literally 5 minutes from home.
There are also some disadvantages. The two key items are:
1. Two years' rent on this unit adds 30% to my build cost estimates. Fortunately, since it's deductible, the impact is somewhat reduced. If nothing else, this will be incentive to keep me moving if/when I start to get distracted.
2. The garage door is only 8' x 8'. You need 10' or more to push the bird through on its wheels. I've done some modeling and I believe this is possible to do ONCE OR TWICE by removing the gear and pushing it through at an oblique angle, but this definitely needs to be an infrequent event.
Ultimately, I believe this is the right decision for my project. Time to get the space set up.