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.
