Cost-effective Building Methods for Housing Projects

The requirement for affordable housing is required more than ever before. Governments, policymakers, and international bodies have long realized the need to address this global challenge. The International housing policy mentions several key principles focusing the provision of adequate housing for all. In this article we will discuss about international housing policy, some of the technologies, promotion of local manufacturing, establishment of organizations, and sticking to minimum standards. Various strategies for cost-effective mass housing schemes that can reduce the overall cost of housing projects will also be discussed.

 

Key Principles of International Housing Policy:

 

1. Selection and Promotion of Proven Technology:

   - Emphasizes the importance of adopting proven construction technologies to ensure efficiency and reliability.

   - Encourages the utilization of techniques that have demonstrated success in delivering quality housing at affordable costs.

 

2. Promotion of Local Manufacturing:

   - Advocates for the manufacture of building materials and components locally, thereby reducing reliance on imports and driving economic growth.

   - Recommends providing financial assistance, technical support, and fiscal concessions to stimulate the local construction industry.

 

3. Establishment of Building Centers:

   - Proposes the establishment of an extensive network of building centers to disseminate knowledge, provide technical assistance, and facilitate the exchange of best practices.

   - Serves as hubs for promoting innovative construction techniques and materials, enhancing accessibility for builders and homeowners alike.

 

4. Creation of Dedicated Organizations:

   - Calls for the establishment of dedicated organizations tasked with advancing research, technology application, and promotion in key areas such as building materials, technology adoption, marketing, and standards development.

   - Aims to centralize efforts and resources to drive continuous improvement and innovation in the housing sector.

 

Minimum Standards for Low-Cost Housing:

 

Ensuring the provision of basic physical comfort in dwellings is paramount, even within the constraints of a limited budget. The adoption of minimum standards, as outlined below, strikes a balance between affordability and livability:

 

- Living Room: 11.1 m²

- Verandah and Kitchen: 6.5 m²

- Bathroom: 1.3 m²

- Lavatory: 1.1 m²

  Total: 20.0 m²

 

Approach to Cost-Effective Mass Housing Schemes:

 

Addressing the acute shortage of affordable housing requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses various strategies:

 

1. Development of Sites:

   - Governments and relevant agencies should identify suitable sites for low-cost housing projects, ensuring access to essential amenities and services.

   - Infrastructure development, including water supply, sanitation, roads, and public transport, is essential to support sustainable communities.

 

2. Financial Assistance:

   - Providing financial assistance in the form of grants and affordable loans enables low-income individuals to build or purchase homes.

   - Accessible financing mechanisms empower marginalized communities and promote social inclusion.

 

3. Construction of Model Houses:

   - Constructing model low-cost houses serves as a demonstration of viable construction technologies and design solutions.

   - Showcasing successful projects instills confidence and encourages widespread adoption within the community.

 

4. Self-Help Schemes:

   - Empowering individuals and communities through self-help housing programs fosters a sense of ownership and pride in homeownership.

   - Providing technical support and training enables residents to actively participate in the construction process, reducing costs and promoting sustainability.

 

5. Skeleton Housing:

   - Introducing flexible housing designs allows for customization based on individual needs and preferences.

   - Empowering residents to make modifications encourages innovation and fosters a sense of community ownership.

 

Cost-Effective Construction Techniques:

 

Innovation in construction techniques plays a pivotal role in driving down the cost of housing projects while maintaining quality standards. Some noteworthy advancements include:

 

1. Foundation Technologies:

   - Utilizing under reamed piles in areas with problematic soil conditions enhances structural stability and reduces construction costs.

 

2. Damp Proof Courses:

   - Incorporating materials such as polythene, bituminous compounds, and waterproofing agents mitigates moisture-related issues, extending the lifespan of buildings.

 

3. Wall Systems:

   - Embracing alternative wall materials like fly ash bricks and precast concrete blocks offers cost-effective solutions without compromising structural integrity.

 

4. Doors and Windows:

   - Prefabricated RCC frames and particle board shutters provide durable alternatives to traditional wooden components, reducing both material and maintenance costs.

 

5. Precast Structural Elements:

   - Prefabricated columns, beams, and slabs streamline construction processes and minimize material wastage, resulting in significant cost savings.

 

6. Roofing Solutions:

   - Utilizing affordable roofing materials such as AC sheets and ferrocement units ensures weatherproofing and longevity at a fraction of traditional costs.

 

7. Flooring Options:

   - Adopting cost-effective flooring solutions like soil-cement bases and thin clay tiles reduces construction expenses without compromising aesthetics or durability.

 

The realization of affordable housing for all requires a hard effort from governments, industry stakeholders, and communities. By accepting innovative technologies, encouraging local manufacturing, and implementing cost-effective construction techniques, we can reduce the gap between housing demand and supply.