Building a house is a significant milestone in one’s life, providing the freedom and stability that comes with homeownership. ‘
However, the rising cost of renting houses has made owning a house a more appealing option for many individuals.
While buying a house may seem like a viable solution, it often comes with exorbitant prices that outweigh the value of the property.
As a result, building a house from scratch has become a popular alternative. However, many people are hesitant to embark on this journey due to a lack of knowledge about the cost and materials required.
In this podt, we will explore the number of blocks needed to build a 2-bedroom flat in Nigeria, providing you with a better understanding of the process.
Factors Affecting the Number of Blocks Needed
Before delving into the specifics, it’s important to note that the number of blocks required to build a 2-bedroom flat is not fixed.
Several factors come into play, including the complexity of the design and the size of the rooms.
In Nigeria, the most common types of flats are 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom flats.
The size of the flat will also impact the number of blocks needed.
For the purpose of this article, we will focus on a medium-sized 2-bedroom flat, which includes a small living room, two medium-sized bedrooms with small toilets, a small kitchen, and a small bathroom.
Calculating the Number of Blocks
To estimate the number of blocks needed for our model 2-bedroom flat, we need to consider the walls in different stages: from the foundation to the damp proof course (DPC), from the DPC to the window base, from the window base to the window top, and from the window top to the roof base.
- Foundation to DPC: The foundation is a crucial element in any construction project, providing stability and support. For our model 2-bedroom flat, we will require approximately four coaches of blocks at this stage.
- DPC to Window Base: The DPC marks the separation between the foundation and the walls. To build the walls from the DPC to the window base, we will need an additional four coaches of blocks.
- Window Base to Window Top: This stage involves constructing the walls from the window base to the window top. To complete this section, we will require approximately five coaches of blocks.
- Window Top to Roof Base: The final stage involves building the walls from the window top to the roof base. For our model 2-bedroom flat, we will need three coaches of blocks to complete this section.
By adding up the number of coaches required for each stage, we can determine the total number of blocks needed for our 2-bedroom flat. It is important to note that the values provided do not include blocks needed for soakaway and fence construction.
Cost of Blocks and Other Materials
The cost of blocks can vary depending on the location. In most places, the average cost of a block is around N200. Considering our model 2-bedroom flat requires approximately 2,200 blocks, you should budget around N440,000 for blocks alone.
However, blocks are not the only materials needed for construction. Other important items include cement, rods, sand, and planks. When building a house similar to our model, you will need around 125 bags of good quality cement. It is crucial to use high-quality cement to ensure the structural integrity of the building. Poor-quality cement can lead to increased consumption and compromised strength.
Blocks Required for Other Types of Flats
While we have discussed the number of blocks required for a 2-bedroom flat, it is worth mentioning the estimates for 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom flats as well.
- 3-Bedroom Flat: A 3-bedroom flat is a popular choice for families, offering enough space for different household members. On average, a 3-bedroom flat will require approximately 2,650 blocks, which is a difference of 450 blocks compared to a 2-bedroom flat.
- 4-Bedroom Flat: A 4-bedroom flat provides even more space and is often considered a luxury option. Building an average 4-bedroom flat will require around 3,100 blocks. As with the other types of flats, the complexity of the design will affect the number of blocks needed.
It’s important to note that these estimates are based on a house design that falls between simplistic and complex. A simpler flat will require fewer blocks, while a more intricate design will require a higher number of blocks.
Buying Blocks vs. Producing Blocks
When it comes to sourcing blocks for your construction project, you have two main options: buying blocks from a company or producing them yourself. Each option comes with its advantages and disadvantages.
Buying Blocks: One advantage of buying blocks is the convenience of obtaining a large quantity in a short period. Block-producing companies typically have a ready supply of blocks available. Additionally, you do not need to possess block production knowledge to acquire blocks. However, there are some downsides to consider. When buying blocks, there is a risk of receiving low-quality blocks. Some companies may use excessive amounts of cement or subpar sand, compromising the integrity of the blocks. Furthermore, buying blocks can be more expensive compared to producing them yourself, as you are paying for the convenience and assurance of quality.
Producing Blocks: Producing blocks for your construction project can offer several benefits. First and foremost, it can save you a significant amount of money, especially as the number of blocks needed increases. Producing your own blocks also allows you to ensure the quality of the blocks used in your construction. You can control the ratio of cement to blocks, ensuring optimal strength. However, producing blocks requires access to a block mold or machine, as well as suitable sand and cement. It is crucial to source high-quality materials and monitor the production process to prevent any fraudulent practices or compromises in quality.
Conclusion
Building a 2-bedroom flat requires careful planning and an understanding of the materials needed.
By estimating the number of blocks required, you can better budget for your construction project.
While the number of blocks will vary depending on the complexity of the design and size of the rooms, our model 2-bedroom flat requires approximately 2,200 blocks.
Remember to consider other important materials such as cement, rods, sand, and planks when planning your construction project.
Whether you choose to buy blocks or produce them yourself, make sure to prioritize quality and cost-effectiveness.
With the right knowledge and preparation, you can turn your dream of owning a 2-bedroom flat into a reality.
