Design and Build in Kenya: A Valuable Process for Development

The construction industry has always played an important role in Kenya’s economy. The sector directly employs approximately 26% of the country’s workforce, and accounts for 10% of GDP. However, substandard buildings and structures throughout the country have become a matter of national concern, prompting the government to launch various initiatives to improve the quality of design and construction in Kenya. With this in mind, there are many things that need to be taken into account when designing and building a house: from budgeting to making sure all materials used are durable and energy-efficient. In this blog post we will explore these topics as well as some useful tips from experts on how you can build a home that will stand the test of time.

Research and Planning

It is important to conduct research and plan the design of your home from the very beginning, especially if you are going to build it yourself. The two most important factors that you should take into account are your budget and the site where you will build. Choosing the right site for building your home is essential as it will affect the construction process – both the timelines and the costs. At the same time, it is crucial to have a detailed budget plan in place before starting any construction project. The budget will depend on the size of the house and its amenities as well as the location you will build. You will also have to take into account the cost of hiring professionals, such as architects and engineers, if you decide to build from scratch.

Build with Quality Materials

Always make sure that the materials you use for constructing your home are of high-quality. This will ensure that your house lasts for several decades, even under extreme weather conditions. On the other hand, using substandard materials will significantly increase the cost of building your home. One of the best ways to make sure that the materials you use are of good quality is to hire a contractor who specializes in construction. By working with a contractor, you will be able to select materials that are durable, yet also fit within your budget. Furthermore, if you are planning to build your house on a piece of land that you already own, you should make sure that the soil is suitable for building. To test the soil, you will have to dig a hole of at least one meter in depth to determine its makeup. Soil that is too sandy or clay-like is not suitable for building, as it will be difficult to construct a foundation and walls with it.

Have a Good Contractor

Having a trusted contractor to build your house will ensure that the project is completed on time and on budget. However, it is important to do your research before hiring a contractor to build your home. As such, you can visit the contractor’s previous projects to observe the quality of their work. You should also check their license, insurance, and references to make sure that they are a legitimate business. A contractor should be able to walk you through their process from start to finish. They should also be able to provide you with an estimate of the costs associated with the project. Furthermore, they should be willing to work with you to adjust the design according to your needs.

Be Responsible for Your Home’s Design

When designing your home, it is important to be responsible for all the decisions that you make. For example, if you choose wooden floors, you will have to maintain them to ensure that they last for a long time. For wooden floors, it is recommended that you apply a sealant every three to four years to protect them from water damage. You should also have an annual cleaning service to remove any dust that may settle on the floors over time. In terms of roofing, metal and tile roofs last longer than shingles. However, they are also more expensive. It is up to you to weigh the costs and benefits of various materials to decide which ones are best for your home.

Conclusion

Design and construction in Kenya remains an important sector of the economy, one that the government wishes to support through various initiatives. With this in mind, there are many things that need to be taken into account when designing and building a house: from budgeting to making sure all materials used are durable and energy-efficient. In this blog post we will explore these topics as well as some useful tips from experts on how you can build a home that will stand the test of time.