Version 4.0.1 - 05.29.2025
- Added five additional layers to the Layers tab of the Global Settings for stair assemblies.
- Added a "Stair Layers" option into the Layers tab of the Global Settings in order to toggle the stair layers "On" or "Off".

Tutorial 71 - Layers/Tags for Stairs (4:02 min.)

Version 4.0.0b - 05.28.2025
- Enabled "green" pressure treated lumber within the stair module.

Hmmm.  The first thing that came to my mind after reading the subject (keyword: cheapest) and the posted message (Tornadoes) was that those two words may be at odds with each other. I've not looked into tornado-resistant construction much, however, reinforced concrete has been mentioned the few times I have looked briefly. That won't be on the list of cheapest methods or materials.

I don't know much about cordwood other than it seems to be labor intensive and if or when the wood shrinks there may be drafts. There is a member here who many years ago built a cordwood structure. One link, a search on the forum will likely bring up more.

As for myself, I am interested in saving money. I have learned over the decades that the cheapest right now is quite often the cheapest in the long run.

A concrete wall structure can be made to be very energy efficient. Lots of decisions to be made, such as is it better to insulate on the exterior to place the concrete thermal mass inside or better to insulate inside?

Version 1.0.4 - 05.26.2025
- Enabled joist hangers for openings.



Tutorial 24 - Joist Hangers and Openings (7:58 min.)

Version 1.0.3 - 05.25.2025
- Enabled I-Joist floor headers for openings.

Version 1.0.2b - 05.23.2025
-Updated the joist removal function for more granular usage when working with staggered joists.

I apologize for all of these micro updates, I would have preferred to roll this out after adding a few more features etc... However, the user who requested this specific ability obviously needs it to complete their project so it is simply a matter of expediency.



Now one can not only specify a single line of joists to remove but also remove specific joists from a given line, see screenshot above and note the syntax in the Remove Joists field.

I don't know much about cordwood or earthbag homes, but it seems like you shouldn't have a problem getting it done with the $ you are getting....Are you planning on building it yourself or hiring it out?  How many SF?  

Version 1.0.2 - 05.22.2025
- Enabled multi-ply floor headers for openings.
- Enabled variable lengths for staggered joists.





You can now enter in a single value for the joist length or you can enter in a list of lengths deliminated by commas. This update per user request.

The Floor Opening toolbar will now contain a sixth tool called "Stretch Header" which will allow the user to stretch the opening headers in a more intuitive fashion:



I'm not really wanting to add more icons to my already bloated toolbars but I feel like this will be a very worthwhile tool and it will almost certainly makes everyone's life a little easier when it comes to these openings.

I have 16 acres paid off, w/ well, septic, and electric will be about $2k to hook up.
I initially was considering a cordwood, or possibly earthbag style home. I still like cordwood the most but I've recently started considering barndominiums or ICF. I will be coming into a good chunk of money soon hopefully mid 6 figures and plan to start building as soon as I get it and have the house, land, water taken care of and hopefully enough for a decent solar backup w/battery bank. What would be all around cheap and energy efficient? I'm in the Midwest where we occasionally get a tornado, none too bad in my area in 100yrs, and some snow but I wouldn't consider it a major concern like some parts of the N/NE.