Timber iQ August - September 2020 // Issue: 50 August - September 2020 | Page 15

ͦ
ͦ
ͦ
ͦ
ͦ
ͦ
FEATURES
Vehicle licensing authority factors
• Trailers can only be made by registered trailer
manufacturers.
• Dimensions:
ͦ max height 4.3m
ͦ max width 2.6m
max trailer length 12m
• Building onto skids is another solution as no roadworthy
issues are then applicable.
• No yearly licence fees are required.
• Not classified as a vehicle by insurance companies.
TINY HOMES TO ADDRESS OUR
HOUSING CRISES
• Tiny homes provide a quick and effective solution for the housing
backlog.
• Units can be moved to wherever they need to be.
• They can be used for temporary or emergency housing solutions.
• Quality can be controlled by builders.
• Electrical and waste services can be installed prior to site delivery by
registered professionals. ‐
Building units in compliance with regulations
and structural integrity
• Units must be built to the same specs as conventional
timber frame homes.
• Bracing should be regarded as critical.
• Insulation should be included.
• If movable, the chassis must be rigid enough to prevent
bending while being moved.
• Units can be constructed by timber frame or cross
laminated timber (CLT) methods.
Handling sewerage disposal
• Sewerage could be managed in a number of ways:
Conventionally (tied into the municipal sewage
system).
Waterborne sewerage (pit latrines or septic tanks).
Composting toilets (a type of dry toilet that treats
waste by the biological process of composting).
Chemical or ‘porta potty’ type toilets.
Small bio reactor treatment plant.
COULD THERE BE A MARKET IN SA?
Research has shown a huge interest in this product for the local
market as it can contribute towards the densification of parts of
our cities, which is a big need currently. The trends locally and
internationally are towards living naturally and off grid further
strengthening its case. Individuals also want freedom and, the
ability to explore and travel. Retirement can also become
exciting with the ability to relocate as and when needed. All of
these factors indicate a strong demand for this type of home
in South Africa.
THE SPRUCE
An example of a tiny home bathroom with composting toilet.
INVERSE
An illustration of a group of tiny homes that can densify even a small area.
www.timberiq.co.za // AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2020 13