SA Affordable Housing November / December 2016 // Issue: 61 | Page 20

FEATURES

Building with bricks: down
with costs, up with quality
Brick is one of the most popular building materials in the affordable
housing sector but a brick isn’t just a brick. We chat to various
industry role players to see how to save costs when using bricks
without compromising on quality.
By Ilana Koegelenberg

RDP house in Lindelani Kimberley. Image: Corobrik

TIPS FOR KEEPING COSTS DOWN
The maintenance factor plays a very important role when
deciding what material to use, says Musa Shangase,
Corobrik commercial director. Clay face brick does not
require any further maintenance once built, hence it saves
you money over the long term.
“Clay pavers are made to the highest quality standards and
similar to clay face brick will not change in colour once
laid,” says Shangase.
“It also important to choose the right contractor with
experience in laying clay face brick and paving to prevent
workmanship challenges over the long term.” It is
important that you get professional assistance when

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NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2016

AFFORDABLE
SA HOUSING

costing your development to make sure that you have
accurate figures in your budget. “Also ensure that the
correct quality product is specified upfront to avoid
cheaper alternatives being built without your knowledge,”
advises Shangase. “In addition it is important to ensure
that the building and paving is done correctly and on time
to avoid more costs.”

QUALITY MATTERS
“Use the best quality product available – the brick should
be of consistent dimensions and size overall,” advises
Quintin Booysen, sales and marketing manager at Pan
Mixers South Africa (PMSA).
See page 20 for more.