robsgreen - so you are telling me you could buy workers' compensation for any and all aspects of your construction project, with no background or construction experience, for $100. As someone who pays workers' compensation, I want to know who your carrier is as I am going to switch. Realistically it costs more than $100 to insure a desk jockey with the highest risk exposure being a paper cut. Probably the highest risk on a residential build job is roofing. Note that most residential roofing subcontractors DO NOT carry workers' compensation, the roofers are subcontractors and not direct employees. Do you think they are doing this to ssave a mere $100?

I won't be doing ours for another year or more myself so I feel you. Have to close on the log home and get moved up there this spring. Almost there... BUT if we ever do get this project off the ground I'm planning to put electric heating cables (with a thermostat control) into the floor for those winter nights when I'm not at home. That way we won't be tied down when we want to go on vacation. Otherwise I plan to use a rocket heating system we'll also build. It costs nothing to run so it'll keep me from having to use electric heat most of the time when it's freezing outside. Ideally. Good luck to those of you who are doing this and please keep us posted on how it does for you!

I've had a Liebherr French door unit for about ten years. It was one of the first ones built. Initially, there was a door closing problem; but, it was fixed at no charge. There is no problem with fit and finish and the materials on the inside are fine. It is quieter in operation than the Sub-Zero it replaced. It is well laid out and efficient in operation. Also, the "squarish" ice cubes are a neat feature over the crescent shaped ones that cling to the rim of the glass. I guess anyone can have a problem unit; but, in my experience, Liebherr seems to be a responsible, innovative and quality manufacturer.

I am not the expert on the cub cadet. Cub cadet is made by MTD - the same company that makes troybilt, craftsman and other brands. Some of the cubs are heavier duty, but all the cub tractor styles are designed for home owners. Since you want to tow carts and push snow, your best bet is to look at the largest models. The lighter models just are not intended for snow and towing. Naturally, the largest model is the most expensive. In other brands, I would avoid Troybilt and craftsman. If you look for used, the older Sears craftsman were made by another company and some were quite heavy and could easily handle the work you described. The Husvarna makes some heavier models along with John Deere, but the same information applies. Choose the heavier models with the larger wheels and tires. Look at the rear axle and avoid anything with the plastic rear axle - even for light duty. In my opinion, you should avoid the models witht the Chinese EFI engine. Dealers probably do not have the technical equipment to figure out problems. The home improvement stores probably have a better return policy, but are not likely to carry the heavier models. In your search, look for a Lawn mower shop that carries the brands you are interested in. Most of these are staffed with more knowledgeable sales people. Ask about their service policies and pick up abilities.