Common Mistakes In Low-Cost Housing Construction And How To Avoid Them The majority of individuals who belong to the middle-class society opt for housing options that suit their budget. But the reality is that several challenges appear when the budget to construct a house is very tight. The construction of homes in India at a low cost adversely impacts the durability, structural integrity and residents’ quality of life. So, it is of utmost importance to understand the typical pitfalls in low cost housing construction and avoid them. Remember, you can build a durable, sustainable and affordable home if the builders use premium quality and cost-effective materials, including plastic formworks. Improper Evaluation of Construction Site Before laying the very first brick, conducting an adequate assessment of the house construction site is imperative for builders. Structural integrity issues will crop up sooner rather than later if the builders you hire do not prioritise site evaluation. It is essential to examine the conditions of the soil, water table and patterns of drainage of the site. The risk of cracking and subsequent structural failure is higher if the construction is on unstable soil. Hence, creating an appropriate design for the foundation is paramount. The team of architects, engineers and builders must conduct a geotechnical survey beforehand. Moreover, grading the construction site ensures proper drainage for surface water. The objective is to restrain foundation dampness and erosion. The Use of Substandard Structural Materials In the majority of cases, the use of cheap structural materials is common for affordable housing construction. ● The structure of the house will suffer significantly if you refrain from using high-quality
building materials and equipment like Nova Plastic Formwork systems. ● Another thing that you must not do just to cut the budget is to minimise the rebar’s
spacing or diameter. ● Ensure the concrete mix ratios are not incorrect during construction. ●
Remember that it is not prudent to compromise on structural design, besides materials, for the sake of saving some money. Poor quality cement, aggregates, reinforcement bars and formworks do not let the building endure immense loads during extreme weather conditions. Inadequate Management of Water In almost all low cost housing construction projects, the problem of water infiltration is common. Most builders of such projects do not pay much heed to this serious issue. Ignoring critical waterproofing and damp-proofing components is indeed a big mistake. This includes employing porous wall materials without sufficient external plastering or treatment, neglecting to adequately seal roofs and moist areas. Chronic moisture, the development of mold, and the quick deterioration of structural components and interior coatings are the outcomes.