MIDTERM ASSIGNMENT NO.

Name: MARQUEZ, GERALDINE C.

Section: ARSCH51S6

Professor: ARCH. PABLO, RAUL

Course: AR551 - HOUSING

METHODS AND MATERIALS

LOW-COST HOUSING

SELECTION OF LOAD BEARING AND FRAMED STRUCTURES FOR LOW COST HOUSING
CONSTRUCTION.

When we lay out our construction plans, we should always focus on the structure that we will be using. So, the
structure is the first point of concern. Instead of using a frame structure, it should preferably be a load bearing
structure. There are several advantages to the Load Bearing structure:

1. Cheaper in case of normal low rise building. As the cost of construction is low because lesser amount of
concrete and steel rods are required.
2. Easier to construct and also it requires much lesser time. Thus this will serve both the purposes of low
cost as well as in speedy processing.
3. It is flexible as well.

HOLLOW CONCRETE BLOCK LOAD BEARING WALLS FOR LOW COST HOUSING
CONSTRUCTION

Use of hollow concrete blocks for load bearing walls has many advantages such as:
1. They are way cheaper than stone bricks we conventionally use.
2. Because they are light in weight, they are very easy to handle and to work on.
3. There is a special advantage of insulation to space air void.
4. A very less amount of mortar is consumed.
5. The most important fact is that, these are environment friendly.
Reference:

https://theconstructor.org/construction/low-cost-housing-construction-technique/14858/
https://www.slideshare.net/SumanNandi9/low-cost-housing-75225579
https://gosmartbricks.com/10-low-cost-house-construction-techniques-that-never-fail/
 MIDTERM ASSIGNMENT NO. 5

PREFABRICATION OF STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS

Prefabricated construction is a concept where all the essential elements of construction are readymade and
bought. So, it is quite understood that it will save a huge amount of time and helps on concentrating on the
durability of the work. Examples of certain prefabricated materials that you can use are:

 Materials for walls

 Roof and floor slabs
 Doors and windows

DOORS AND WINDOWS IN LOW COST HOUSING CONSTRUCTION

We have already mentioned above that we should promote prefabrication to be quick and innovative. But also,
we can make sure that we do not spend so much on the doors and windows and just look for the maximum
durability of a design which is provided to you at very less and effective cost. Instead of following the
conventional carpeting procedures we should always go by the frames for the doors. There are so many sizes
and options that are available. This save cost up to 30% and saves time.

LOW COST HOUSE CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES THAT NEVER FAIL

1. CHOOSE THE BEST PLOT

Isn't it true that you choose the plot before you start building? So, when choosing a plot for your home, choose
one that is neither too high nor too low in relation to the height or depth of the road. This is because if the height
or depth of the construction plot is not up to the road level in front, a greater amount of filling will be required,
increasing your construction costs.

2. MAINTAIN A SIMPLE PLAN

A hazy plan full of curves and complexities is one of the factors that contribute to the additional cost of your
project. Such plans account for a significant portion of your construction costs, so keep an eye on them. If you've
hired an architect, go over every detail and complexity of the plan, as well as the cost.
Reference:

https://theconstructor.org/construction/low-cost-housing-construction-technique/14858/
https://www.slideshare.net/SumanNandi9/low-cost-housing-75225579
https://gosmartbricks.com/10-low-cost-house-construction-techniques-that-never-fail/
 MIDTERM ASSIGNMENT NO. 5

3. YOUR MATERIAL SELECTIONS CAN MAKE A SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE

Building materials are one of the most expensive items in any construction project and can make or break your
budget. We recommend getting quotes from several sellers before deciding on your final materials. When you
get multiple quotes for different construction materials, it is easier to choose the most reasonable one, which
helps to lower the overall cost.

4. LOAD-BEARING STRUCTURE PREFERABLE TO FRAME ONE

When it comes to defining the structure of your home, a load-bearing arrangement is preferable. This is primarily
due to the benefits listed below:

 More affordable - low-rise buildings are significantly less expensive. This is due to the use of fewer
steel rods and concrete.
 Load-bearing structures are easier to build because they require less time, which reduces costs and
energy consumption.
 Flexible - It is also quite adaptable.

5. THE BUILDING'S FOUNDATION

The foundation of a building is one of the most important aspects of any construction. It accounts for
approximately 11% to 16% of total construction costs. A building foundation should typically be 3-4 feet deep in
the soil. However, for typical soils, this can be reduced to around 2 feet. This can save a lot of time and money;
however, in other delicate or soft soils, the cost-cutting goal may not be fully attained or executed correctly.

6. CHOOSE WELL-KNOWN CONTRACTORS.

It is always a good idea to ask relatives and neighbors for recommendations on the best and most affordable
contractors in your area. Without a doubt, a well-resourced team can assist you save a lot of time while also
ensuring quality at a low cost.

7. MATERIALS THAT ARE PREFABRICATED

A state in which all of the essential and necessary building or construction basics are ready-made and purchased
is referred to as prefabricated construction. As a result, it is clear that it will save a significant amount of time
while focusing on the work's durability. Floor slabs and materials for doors and windows are two examples of
prefabricated materials.

8. SYSTEM OF PRECAST STAIRS

The precast staircase system, as opposed to the traditional "cast-in-situ" staircase system, is a new, efficient,
and effective method of building a stairway in a building. Here are a few advantages of using a precast staircase
system:
 Construction is simple and inexpensive.
 Less effort is required.
 It is supported by a cantilever.

9. PAY ATTENTION TO ELECTRICALS

Select branded wires for House wiring to reduce recurring repair costs. You can save money by using natively
built switches and sockets. Also, choose fittings that are cost effective and require little maintenance.

10. SANITARYWARE, DOORS, AND WINDOWS

We've already discussed the advantages of using prefabricated materials to be more efficient and creative. You
should avoid spending too much money on windows and doors and instead choose a design that provides
maximum durability for a much lower cost. And, when it comes to sanitary ware, be as picky as possible; this
could save you a lot of money in future repairs.

Reference:

https://theconstructor.org/construction/low-cost-housing-construction-technique/14858/
https://www.slideshare.net/SumanNandi9/low-cost-housing-75225579
https://gosmartbricks.com/10-low-cost-house-construction-techniques-that-never-fail/
 MIDTERM ASSIGNMENT NO. 5

CONCLUSION:

My research conclusion is that It is now possible to construct Quick and Low-Cost Rural Housing without
sacrificing the strength or materials used. All of the techniques and methods mentioned above aid in energy
conservation. Low cost construction is concept which is generalized and based on three factors which are
structural design, method of budgeting & cost cutting and materials used. As a result, all three of these factors
must be optimized for low-cost construction.

With the low-cost house construction techniques described above, you can complete a low-cost housing or
construction project without sacrificing the quality of materials used. The low-cost house construction techniques
mentioned above also aid in energy conservation.

Reference:

https://theconstructor.org/construction/low-cost-housing-construction-technique/14858/
https://www.slideshare.net/SumanNandi9/low-cost-housing-75225579
https://gosmartbricks.com/10-low-cost-house-construction-techniques-that-never-fail/