When looking at building affordable housing, it’ s important to consider the various components that make up the project. In this feature we focus on windows, walls and floors with regards to building for the affordable housing sector.
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Timber floor structure. Image: thetinylife. com
Completing the look: windows, walls and floors
When looking at building affordable housing, it’ s important to consider the various components that make up the project. In this feature we focus on windows, walls and floors with regards to building for the affordable housing sector.
By Ntsako Khosa
A
structure stands incomplete without windows, walls or floors. As secondary as they may seem when it comes to the overall design of the building, and adds to the overall structure of the building.
After sourcing a registered and qualified builder or contractor, and before you get cracking on constructing the affordable house, the foundations must be laid in accordance with the National Homebuilders Association Council( NHBRC) requirements under SANS regulations.
A proper and secure foundation guarantees that the floors, walls and windows will be placed correctly. Regulations are listed under the Home Building Manual that highlights following the SANS 10400 code of practice for the application of the national Building Regulations. Revised guidelines where launched in 2016 at a breakfast session. NHBRC special projects advisor Dr Jeffrey Mahachi says,“ Our mandate is to assure quality homes. The new guidelines address issues such as the standards of building materials, the rules governing new building technologies, training and development, and many others.”
The requirements for housing foundations depend on whether the building will be a single or double storey as well as the types of floors that will be placed( tiled or sheeted). The minimum width of strip foundations should be 500mm for external walls and 400mm for internal walls.
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MARCH- APRIL 2017
AFFORDABLE
SA HOUSING