EP5 - DIY Foundations & Septic Install: Setting Out, Drilling & Pouring Piers

In this video: It is finally time to get out of the ground! In this episode of our Owner Builder journey, we tackle the massive job of setting out our site, drilling 20 pier holes, and pouring our first concrete foundations. We also saved hundreds if dollars by assembling our own steel rebar cages on-site rather than waiting for pre-fab ones. Plus, we get our septic tank installed and deal with some major drilling headaches (rocks and tree roots!). If you are planning an owner build, pay attention to the "3-4-5 Method", as it is an excellent way to square the site. See our 3-4-5 Method Tutorial video here:    • How to Square a Building: The 3-4-5 Method...   — Helpful Links 🔗 1. Australian Floor Plans for Owner Builders https://www.australianfloorplans.com.... Don't forget to use the coupon code: MyOwnerBuild (for a discount on your purchase). 2. Selecting Owner Builders Insurance (and quote form) https://coverforce.snapforms.com.au/f... 3. Purchase an owner builder sign through My Owner Build ⬇️ 💡 https://www.myownerbuild.com.au/owner... 4. Guide to Getting a Build Certified in QLD https://www.myownerbuild.com.au/getti... 5. Do Need a Smoke Alarm Plan for your Build? We can help ⬇️ https://www.myownerbuild.com.au/smoke... 6. Shopping for a Kit Home? Check out our Kit Home Comparison https://www.myownerbuild.com.au/kit-h... 7. Site Set Out Tutorial Article https://www.myownerbuild.com.au/sites... 8. My Owner Build Website & Resources https://www.myownerbuild.com.au __ ⏱️ Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro & Buying our Site Truck ("Sharon") 1:50 - Setting Out the Site & String Lines 3:55 - How to Square a Building (3-4-5 Method) 5:37 - WARNING: Tape Measures Stretch in the Heat! 7:23 - Setting up Profiles & Batter Boards 11:00 - Drilling the Pier Holes (450mm Diameter) 12:34 - DIY Rebar Cages (Saving Money & Time) 16:40 - Septic Tank Installation (LP Plumbing) 21:49 - Hitting Rocks & Tree Roots (Drilling Problems) 27:33 - Engineer Inspection of Rebar Cages 29:40 - Setting Formwork Levels with a Laser 32:00 - The First Concrete Pour! 34:20 - Quick Tip: Stake Your Formwork First If you enjoyed this video, please be sure to subscribe for more Owner-Builder tips and resources! 🏠 Project Stats: Budget Goal: $150,000 Location: Russell Island, QLD Work Completed: Site Set Out, Septic Install, 5/20 Piers Poured Money Saving Win: DIY Rebar Cages 🛠️ Tools & Materials Mentioned: Rotary Laser Level: Essential for getting pier heights consistent. Auger/Drill: 450mm bit Rebar: N12 bars and spirals for cages. 🇦🇺 About the Series: The $150k Owner Build 🤞 Hi, I'm Chris! I'm an electrician by trade, but I have zero experience with general building. Join me and my partner as we attempt to build a kit home in Australia for under $150k. We share the wins, the costs, and the mistakes so hopefully you can learn from us as we go 🤞 Important to note: I am not a professional builder. This video is for entertainment and educational purposes, documenting my personal journey. Always consult with structural engineers and professionals for your specific foundation requirements. #ownerbuilder #concretepiers #septictank #diyfoundation #buildingahouse