Construction of House Tips & Estimates

Things to Keep In Mind 

While Building Your Home

New Home Construction        

Your house is often the hard earned fruit of your hard work over decades of your life. It only makes sense to be absolutely sure about where, when and particularly how to build your house. Following are some things you should keep in mind while constructing your house.

Construction Management

Index: Construction Steps of a Home

1.    Pre-Construction:  Planning & Design Permits and Approvals Site Preparation

2.    Foundation Work Excavation Formwork & Footings Foundation Construction Waterproofing & Drainage

3.    Framing Structural Framing Sheathing Roof Trusses

4.    Roofing Roofing Installation Flashing & Gutters

5.    Windows and Doors Installation of Windows & Exterior Doors

6.    Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Rough-In Plumbing Rough-In Electrical HVAC Installation

7.    Insulation Insulation Installation

8.    Drywall Hanging Drywall Taping & Mudding

9.    Interior Finishes Painting Trim & Molding Flooring Installation

10.                   Cabinetry and Fixtures Kitchen & Bathroom Cabinets Countertops Plumbing Fixtures

11.                   Exterior Finishes Siding Painting & Finishing

12.                   Final Systems Installation Lighting & Electrical Fixtures Appliance Installation HVAC Finalization

13.                   Final Inspections & Walkthrough Final Inspections Homeowner Walkthrough

14.                   Landscaping Final Grading & Driveway Landscaping

 

1. Pre-Construction

• Planning & Design: Involves working with an architect or designer to create the home’s layout, ensuring it meets the homeowner’s requirements and complies with local building codes.

Design of House

Designing a house can be a thrilling and daunting task! To navigate it effectively, consider these key points throughout the process:

Understanding Your Needs and Preferences:

Who will be living in the house? Consider ages, lifestyles, accessibility needs, and hobbies of all residents.

What are your priorities? Is it spaciousness, natural light, energy efficiency, or specific features like a home office or outdoor living space?

What is your budget? Be realistic about the total cost, including construction, materials, furnishings, and potential future modifications.

Planning and Functionality:

Layout and Flow: Create a comfortable and efficient flow between rooms, considering traffic patterns and relationships between spaces (e.g., kitchen proximity to dining area).

Room Sizes and Functions: Allocate space effectively based on intended use and furniture needs. Don't forget storage!

Natural Light and Ventilation: Maximise natural light for well-being and energy savings. Plan for proper ventilation in all rooms.

Aesthetics and Sustainability:

 Architectural Style: Choose a style that resonates with you and complements the surroundings. Consider local zoning regulations.

Materials and Finishes: Select materials that are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and budget-friendly. Explore sustainable options.

Energy Efficiency: Prioritise energy-efficient features like insulation, lighting, and appliances to reduce your environmental impact and long-term costs.

• Permits and Approvals: Before construction begins, you must obtain necessary permits and approvals from local authorities.

Legal and Practical Considerations:

Building Permits and Zoning: Comply with all local regulations and obtain necessary permits before construction.

Accessibility: Ensure accessibility features like wider doorways and ramps if needed.

Future-proofing: Consider potential future needs like expanding the family or aging in place.

Additional Tips:

1. Seek professional help: Consider consulting an architect, designer, or contractor for expertise and guidance.
2. Research and inspiration: Look at house plans, magazines, and online resources for ideas.
3. Communicate effectively: Clearly communicate your needs and preferences to professionals involved in the design and construction process.
4.  Be flexible and adaptable: Be prepared for unexpected challenges and consider alternative solutions.
5. Remember, designing your dream house is a journey. Enjoy the process, prioritise your needs, and don't hesitate to ask for help when needed!

• Site Preparation: The land is cleared, levelled, and prepared for construction. Any existing structures or vegetation are removed, and the site is graded to ensure proper drainage.

Standards Size for Room etc

There isn't one single "standard size" for any room, as the optimal size depends on several factors:

1. Function of the room: Different rooms have different purposes, dictating how much space is needed. A bedroom needs enough space for a bed, dresser, and maybe a desk, while a bathroom needs space for a toilet, sink, and shower/bathtub.
2.  Number of occupants: If a room will be used by multiple people, you'll need more space compared to a room for just one person.
3.  Personal preferences: Some people prefer spacious rooms with ample room for movement, while others may prefer crozier, more intimate spaces.
4.  Architectural style of the house: Different architectural styles, like open floor plans versus traditional layouts, can influence room sizes and shapes.
5.  Regional variations: Size preferences can differ across countries or regions, based on factors like building costs and cultural norms.
6.  Building codes and regulations: Local building codes may specify minimum sizes for habitable rooms, ensuring safety and basic functionality.

 Here are some general size ranges for common rooms, keeping in mind that these are just starting points:

  Bedroom:

1.       Small: 10' x 10' (3.05 x 3.05m) - Suitable for a single bed and minimal furniture.
2.       Medium: 12' x 12' (3.66 x 3.66m) - Accommodates a queen-size bed, dresser, and some         additional furniture.
3.       Large: 14' x 14' (4.27 x 4.27m) - Offers space for a king-size bed, multiple pieces of furniture, and potentially a sitting area.

 

 Living room:

1.       Small: 10' x 12' (3.05 x 3.66m) - Fits basic furniture for relaxing or socializing.
2.       Medium: 12' x 18' (3.66 x 5.49m) - Common size for family homes, offering more flexibility.
3.       Large: 15' x 20' (4.57 x 6.10m) - Perfect for entertaining or large families.

 

 Kitchen:

1.      Small: 10' x 10' (3.05 x 3.05m) - Compact kitchens with essential appliances and limited storage.
2.       Medium: 12' x 12' (3.66 x 3.66m) - More workable space for appliances, storage, and basic meal prep.
3.       Large: 15' x 15' (4.57 x 4.57m) - Offers ample space for cooking, dining, and even entertaining.

  

Beyond square footage:

Remember, size alone doesn't determine functionality. Consider:

1. Shape: Long narrow spaces might feel restrictive, while square or open layouts feel more spacious.
2. Traffic flow: Ensure smooth movement between furniture and access to other areas.
3. Furniture arrangement: Choose furniture that fits comfortably and allows for desired activities.
4. Proportions: Ensure the room's height complements the floor area.

Remember, these are just examples, and the ideal size for your room will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the factors mentioned above, measure your available space, and create a layout that feels comfortable and functional for you. It's always best to consult with an architect or designer for professional guidance tailored to your unique situation.

Soft wears for Designing the House

Choosing the right software for creating an elevation plan of your house depends on your needs and experience level. Here are some popular options with their pros and cons:

Free and user-friendly options:

• Sketch Up Free:

Pros: Easy to learn and use, even for beginners. Free version offers basic tools for creating 3D models and generating elevation plans.

Cons: Limited features compared to paid versions. May not be suitable for complex projects.

•  Planner 5D:

Pros: User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality. Large library of pre-designed furniture and objects. Free version allows creating basic floor plans and elevation views.

Cons: Limited customisation options. Watermarks on exported plans in the free version.

•  Room Sketcher:

      Pros: Web-based platform, no software installation required. User-friendly interface with a focus on interior design. Free version allows creating basic floor plans and elevation views.

    Cons: Limited 3D modelling capabilities. Watermarks on exported plans in the free version.

Paid options with more advanced features:

•  Autodesk Revit:

Pros: Industry-standard software used by professionals. Offers comprehensive tools for creating detailed and accurate building models, including elevation plans.

Cons: Steep learning curve, not suitable for beginners. Expensive subscription model.

•  Chief Architect Home Designer:

 Pros: User-friendly interface specifically designed for home design. Wide range of tools for creating detailed plans and elevations.

Cons: Not as powerful as Revit, but still more complex than free options. Paid subscription model.

•  Sketch Up Pro:

 Pros: Powerful 3D modeling software with advanced features. Large plugin library for expanding functionality.

Cons: Steeper learning curve than the free version. Paid subscription model.

2. Foundation Work

• Excavation: The ground is excavated to create space for the foundation.
• Formwork & Footings: Wooden or metal forms are set up for the foundation walls, and footings (which support the foundation) are poured with concrete.
• Foundation Construction: The foundation, which could be a slab, crawl space, or full basement, is built using poured concrete or concrete blocks.
• Waterproofing & Drainage: A waterproof membrane is applied to the foundation walls, and a drainage system is installed to keep water away from the foundation.

3. Framing

• Structural Framing: Wooden or steel frames are erected to form the skeleton of the home. This includes the walls, floors, and roof structures.
• Sheathing: Plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) sheathing is applied to the exterior walls and roof to provide structural stability.
• Roof Trusses: The roof trusses or rafters are installed to form the basic structure of the roof.
• RCC Columns: For G+1 buildings, the minimum RCC column size is 9 inches x 9 inches, but 9 inches x 12 inches or 12 inches x 12 inches is safer and more practical, and Safe span distance between columns should typically be 3 to 5 meters (10 to 16 feet), with 4 meters (13 feet) being a common, safe choice for residential construction.

4. Roofing

• Roofing Installation: Once the framing is done, the roof covering (shingles, tiles, or metal) is installed, along with underlayment for weatherproofing.
• Flashing & Gutters: Metal flashing is added around roof openings like chimneys and vents to prevent leaks. Gutters and downspouts are installed to direct water away from the home.
• A 2-foot overhang is generally more effective for protection and energy efficiency, especially in areas with more extreme weather or intense sunlight. It Provides better protection from rain and sun, keeping windows and the building's exterior drier and cooler, especially during intense weather conditions. 

5. Windows and Doors

• Installation of Windows & Exterior Doors: This step includes fitting windows and exterior doors into the framed openings.

6. Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC

• Rough-In Plumbing: Pipes for water supply, drainage, and gas lines are installed.
• Rough-In Electrical: Wiring for lights, outlets, and appliances is installed, and the electrical panel is set up.
• HVAC Installation: Ductwork and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are installed.

7. Insulation

• Insulation Installation: Insulation is installed in walls, ceilings, and floors to regulate temperature and improve energy efficiency. Common types include fiberglass batts, spray foam, or rigid foam boards.

8. Drywall

• Hanging Drywall: Sheets of drywall are fastened to the framed walls and ceilings.
• Taping & Mudding: Seams between drywall sheets are taped, and joint compound is applied to create smooth walls.

9. Interior Finishes

• Painting: Walls and ceilings are primed and painted.
• Trim & Molding: Baseboards, crown molding, and other trim work are installed.
• Flooring Installation: Hardwood, tile, carpet, or laminate flooring is laid.

10. Cabinetry and Fixtures

• Kitchen & Bathroom Cabinets: Cabinets for the kitchen and bathrooms are installed.
• Countertops: Countertops are fitted and secured.
• Plumbing Fixtures: Sinks, faucets, toilets, and other fixtures are installed.

11. Exterior Finishes

• Siding: Siding (vinyl, brick, stucco, etc.) is applied to the exterior of the home.
• Painting & Finishing: Any exterior painting or finishing work is done at this stage.

12. Final Systems Installation

• Lighting & Electrical Fixtures: Light fixtures, switches, and outlets are installed.
• Appliance Installation: Major appliances like the stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher are installed.
• HVAC Finalization: The HVAC system is tested, and thermostats are installed.

13. Final Inspections & Walkthrough

• Final Inspections: Local authorities conduct final inspections to ensure that the home meets all building codes.
• Homeowner Walkthrough: The homeowner inspects the property with the builder to ensure everything is completed according to plan.

14. Landscaping

• Final Grading & Driveway: The land is graded to ensure proper drainage, and the driveway is installed.
• Landscaping: Grass, trees, shrubs, and other plants are added around the property.

Additional factors to consider While Building House:

1. Your budget: Free options are a good starting point, but paid software offers more features and flexibility.
2. Your technical skills: If you're a beginner, user-friendly interfaces and tutorials are important.
3. The complexity of your project: Simple projects can be done with free software, while complex designs may require paid options.
4. Your desired output: Some software focuses on 2D plans, while others offer 3D models and renderings.

Construction / Building Cost of 5 Marla House

1.  A 5-marla house in Pakistan is equivalent to approximately 1361 square feet.
2.  bricks: may require around 50 - 60 thousand (blocks would be more economical instead of bricks) 
3.  concrete: may require around 85-90 cubic meters
4.  sand: may require around 3,000 cft
5.  crush: may require around 1,700 cft
6.  Cement: Almost 600 cement bags
7.  Steel: 3 Tonne
8.  Labor costs depend on the size and complexity of the project,
9.  Plumbing and electrical work are essential components of any construction project.
10.  Miscellaneous costs include fees for obtaining building permits, architectural and engineering services, and interior design.

• Construction Cost of 5 Marla House in Pakistan 2024

SR Items         A/U     Quantity         Rate     Cost
1 Earth Filling 3 Feet         Cft     4,083         30 122,490
2 Bricks         No     55,000         16 880,000
3 Sand         cft     3,000         60 180,000
4 Crush          cft        1,800          120 216,000
5 Cement         No     650        1,500 975,000
6 Steel (Sarya)         Ton     3             260,000        780,000
7 Labour only Str         Sqft     1,361     300         408,300
8 Flooring Marble         Sqft     1,300     150 195,000
9 Grill Iron                 Sqft     100 1,000 100,000
10 Aluminium         Sqft     100 1,600 160,000
11 Door Frames          LS                  1,20,000
12 Malaysian Plywood Doors Sqft     120 1,000 120,000
13 Bathrooms Tiles Sqft     400 400 160,000
14 Plumbing         LS                  400,000
15 Electrical                 LS                  400,000
16 Main Gate          LS                  1,20,000
17 Water Tank          LS                  30,000
18 Termite Control                 LS         50,000
19 Water Proofing Roofs LS                  1,00,000
20 Colour Inside          LS                  400,000
21 Railing Steel          Foot     50 1,500 75,000
22 Chakwal Stone for outside Sqft     3,000 180         540,000
23 Costs of Miscellaneous Items LS                  1,000,000
Total cost                                      7,191,790
Area Sqft                                        1,361
Cost per Sqft                          5,284

Note: The quoted rates may vary as per region and quality.

Pakistan Building Codes

1. Green Building Code of Pakistan-2023 (Launching Soon)
2. Rainwater Harvesting Provisions for Building Code of Pakistan- 2023 (Launching Soon)
3. Building Code of Pakistan – 2021
4. Standardization of Building Codes, Standards, and Specifications for Low-Cost (Affordable) Units-2021
   
5. Building Code of Pakistan- Fire Safety Provisions – 2016
   S.R.O. 1073 (I) for Fire Safety Provisions – 2016
6. Pakistan Electric – Telecommunication Safety Code (PETSAC) – 2014
   S. R. O. 716 (I) for Pakistan Electric & Telecommunication Safety Code (PETSAC) 2014
   S. R. O. 717 (I) for Pakistan Electric & Telecommunication Safety Code (PETSAC) 2014
7. Building Code of Pakistan Provisions-2011
   S.R.O 249 (I) for Building Code of Pakistan- Energy Provisions-2013
8. Building Code of Pakistan – Seismic Provisions – 2007
   S.R.O. 971 (I)  for “Application for Building Code of Pakistan” Seismic Provisions – 2008

References:

Construction Cost Calculator Zameen.com

5 Marla House Construction Cost in Pakistan 2024

Construction Cost on a 5 Marla Double-Storey House

5 Marla House Construction in Pakistan: Costing and Important Details