Chapter 29: Availability of Building Materials and Supplies

KERALA LAND BUYER'S COMPANION HANDBOOK

Architect Shahdad Karim

PART V: Professional Services and Project Materials

Chapter 29: Availability of Building Materials and Supplies
Verify the availability of building materials and supplies in the area.

Building a home is a dream come true for many people. It is a significant investment, and you want to make sure everything is perfect. When planning to build a home in Kerala, one of the most important factors to consider is the availability of building materials and supplies.

 

Kerala is a state rich in natural resources, including timber, bamboo, and coconut. These materials have been used for centuries in traditional construction, and they continue to be popular today. However, with modern construction techniques and materials, there are many other options available.

 

Before starting your construction project, it is essential to consider the availability of materials and supplies. This includes everything from cement and bricks to electrical wiring and plumbing supplies. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when verifying the availability of building materials and supplies in the area.

 

1. Research the Local Market

The first step in verifying the availability of building materials and supplies is to research the local market. This includes understanding the different types of materials available, their prices, and where they can be purchased.

You can start by visiting local building material stores and suppliers in the area. This will give you an idea of the range of materials and supplies available and their prices. You can also talk to builders and contractors in the area to get an idea of their preferred suppliers and materials.

 

It is also essential to research the quality of the materials and supplies available in the area. This includes checking for certification or testing for materials like cement and steel, which can have a significant impact on the quality of the final construction.

 

2. Consider the Distance

Another crucial factor to consider when verifying the availability of building materials and supplies is the distance from the source to the construction site. Transporting building materials and supplies over long distances can be expensive, which can add to the overall cost of the construction project.

 

Therefore, it is essential to consider the proximity of the suppliers to your construction site. This includes researching the local suppliers and their proximity to the construction site. You can also ask for referrals from other builders in the area or check online reviews to ensure that the supplier is reliable and offers quality materials.

 

3. Check the Availability of Specialized Materials

In addition to the basic building materials like cement and steel, you may need specialized materials for specific construction requirements. For example, if you are building a home in a flood-prone area, you may need materials that are waterproof and moisture-resistant.

 

It is essential to research the availability of these specialized materials in the area before starting the construction project. This includes checking with suppliers and researching the availability of alternative materials that can serve the same purpose.

 

4. Consider the Cost

The cost of building materials and supplies can vary significantly depending on the quality, availability, and distance from the source. It is important to consider the cost of materials and supplies as part of your overall construction budget.

 

You can start by researching the prices of different building materials and supplies in the area. You can also ask for quotations from different suppliers to compare prices and choose the most cost-effective option.

 

5. Check for Sustainability

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor in construction, with more and more homeowners looking for environmentally friendly and sustainable building materials and supplies.

 

When verifying the availability of building materials and supplies in Kerala, it is important to consider their sustainability. This includes checking for materials that are renewable, recyclable, and energy-efficient.

 

For example, bamboo is a popular building material in Kerala due to its sustainability, strength, and versatility. It is also an excellent alternative to timber, which can be less sustainable and less durable in the long run.

 

Conclusion

Verifying the availability of building materials and supplies is an essential step in the construction process. This includes researching the local market, considering the distance from the source to the construction site, checking the availability of specialized materials, considering the cost, and checking for sustainability.