The use of prefabricated technology in building and construction is quickly revolutionizing the Kenyan housing sector.
Also known as prefabs, prefabricated houses are manufactured off site (in a factory) and are transported in pieces and assembled on-site.
Prefabricated houses in Kenya could easily replace brick and mortar homes as builders move to dodge the rising cost of building and construction materials.
Prefabs are attracting many home-owners not only due to their affordability but also because they are built within a shorter period. In fact a two bedroom prefabricated house can be built within 2-3 months!
The shift toward the use of prefabricated technology is good for Kenya, a country whose demand for housing currently stands at over 200,000 units against a supply of just 35,000 units annually.
Although prefabs have been widely accepted in developed countries, the technology has failed to catch up in Kenya mainly due to the rigid building code that does not recognize prefabs. This is however expected to change once a new building code is adopted.
I would like to construct a house using this technology. Where do I start?
One way of building a prefab home is by purchasing one or more containers, and using them as walls. However, there is no building code which gives specifications, so it’s all jua kali style from here.
Oh Damn! I almost got excited that the prefab houses are finally here. Who is responsible for ensuring the building code adopted prefabs? This would be ideal. I don’t want to spend my entire life building a house.