Construction Steps of a House-Part 2

Introduction

This tutorial outlines the construction process of a house from the plinth beam level to the roof level, based on the detailed steps presented in the video by Civilion Tales. This guide is particularly relevant for builders and homeowners interested in understanding the construction techniques used in Kerala, India. By following these steps, you'll gain insights into the essential phases of house construction, including structural elements, materials, and techniques employed.

Step 1: Prepare the Foundation and Columns

• Column Planning: The standard column size is 35 cm x 21 cm.
• Steel Reinforcement:
  • Use six 12 mm diameter bars for the main reinforcement.
  • Place 8 mm diameter stirrups at 15 cm center-to-center distances.
  • Ensure the steel from below is connected with new steel bars to reach the required height.
• Marking and Setting Out:
  • Use cement sand paste to mark column outlines.
  • Install starters or shoes for proper column shutter arrangement.

Step 2: Construct the Column Formwork

• Materials: Use wood or sheets to create the column shutter, shaped to fit the column dimensions.
• Verticality Check:
  • Use two equal-length wooden pieces and a rope with a weight to ensure the column is vertical.
  • Alternatively, utilize a plumb bob for accurate alignment.
• Fixing the Shutter:
  • Secure the formwork using supports and nails.

Step 3: Pour Concrete for Columns

• Preparation: Water the inside of the formwork and pour a cement slurry for better bonding.
• Concrete Mixing:
  • Pour the concrete mix using bowls, ensuring even distribution.
  • Compact the mix with rods or vibrators to remove air pockets.
• Removal and Curing:
  • Remove the formwork 24 hours after pouring.
  • Cure the columns for at least 7 days, preferably 14 days for optimal strength.

Step 4: Install Door and Window Frames

• Frame Types: Use wood or concrete for door and window frames.
• Preparation:
  • Treat wood with termite-proof materials and primers.
  • Use steel primers for metal frames.
• Positioning:
  • Mark the locations for door frames.
  • Lay a rope through the frames and connect it to blocks for stability.
• Level Check: Employ a leveling apparatus to ensure door frames are properly aligned.

Step 5: Execute Masonry Work

• Materials: Use cement blocks, bricks, and laterites (33 cm x 19 cm x 21 cm).
• Setting Out:
  • Clean the area and apply water to the base.
  • Use cement mortar for laying laterites, filling gaps with mortar.
• Bonding:
  • Lay masonry in a stretcher bond pattern, ensuring stability.
  • Use a leveling staff and plumb bob to maintain vertical alignment.

Step 6: Create Lintels and Roof Structures

• Lintel Installation:
  • Prepare a lintel with a thickness of 15 cm, using four 8 mm diameter bars and stirrups.
  • Ensure the steel from the columns connects to the lintel.
• Formwork: Make sure to close gaps in formwork to prevent slurry leaks.
• Roof Beam and Slab:
  • Construct the formwork for the roof beam and slab with jack props, woods, and sheets.
  • Place steel rebar above the cover blocks and lay pipes for electrical wiring.

Step 7: Pour Concrete for Roof

• Concrete Preparation:
  • Use Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) or mix on-site.
• Application:
  • Place concrete and apply mechanical vibrators for even distribution.
  • Use straight edges to level the surface and wooden floats to embed coarse aggregates.
• Curing: Create small bunds for water retention and cure for 21 days.

Conclusion

This guide provides a structured approach to the construction of a house from the foundation to the roof. Key steps include preparing the columns, installing frames, masonry work, and pouring concrete for structural integrity. Following these steps will help ensure a successful building process. Consider additional aspects like plumbing, electrical work, and plastering as you move forward in your construction project.