If there is one thing that you will learn from making hypertufa is most of what you learn is from trial and error. Most likely no one knows how much you need ( as a result no quick reply) because all the forms are different sizes. Your post did not indicate how big the box is for your mold. Take a coffee can and measure each ingredient. Log in in a notebook for later reference. Experience will teach you to have a smaller second mold ready for any excess. Or make small tufa balls, then flatten then and they will become feet for your containers. Good luck, take pictures and post you results Mike Here is a link that might be useful: My Blog

Maybe related or can point you in the right direction. I recently visited an area resort on Cape Cod where a golf course was being renovated. On a tour of the facility I asked why there was so much sand being put down and where the loam or topsil was. They put down atleast 8" of a 80% sand and 20% seed mix...and no loam or soil! Pretty sure it was rolled out. They were planting bent grass (tee boxes, fairways, greens) and bluegrass on the first cut. True they have drainage and irrigation, but I was surprised they were using a mix with primarily sand.

As someone in the business for 20 years and growing up in a HVAC family I would say your idea to consult a professional is the right thing to do and an estimate on new equipment should be free. A few things I have noticed. First your heater is probably too small to move enough air for the size of your house. This can affect the AC as well. Undersized systems usually affect the place farthest from the indoor equipment. Second the noise is not because of high efficiency. To the contrary it may indicate a problem with the blower system. Third never block air ducts or return air ducts as this reduces the efficiency of your unit and can cause damage. If you are adding onto your house you will need another or a larger system so perhaps adding a second system would be the best bet. My advice get a professional. The money you save in energy costs will be worth it in the long run. Good luck with it. Here is a link that might be useful: Ra-Jac Air Conditioners and Heaters Texas City TX

thanks UD, and sorry didn't mean to sound like this is some half a$$ job. the system was designed for the basement to be ducted, I was mostly asking so when I do my wall layout, I would know where to place vents. I do planning on calling back the guys who did the origianl job and have them do it. I do know my system draws some fresh air from outside, but I know the CO issue is still there