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 .
FEATURES
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 .
30
MARCH - APRIL 2017
AFFORDABLE
SA HOUSING