ᐅ Solid Construction vs. Prefabricated House

Created on: 4 Oct 2009 21:06
M
moser
M
moser
4 Oct 2009 21:06
Hello everyone!

We are currently still in the planning phase; the building publication was submitted last week. We have decided on the following construction method: reinforced concrete slab foundation, strip footing, reinforced concrete, BN, calcium silicate bricks. Furthermore, the building is to meet Minergie standards, with a connection to district heating and 15m2 (160ft2) of solar collectors.

Now to the main question: friends and colleagues believe that the price of about CHF 950,000 for the house construction (excluding land) is quite high. They recommend considering the prefabricated house option as well, claiming it is much cheaper than solid construction, especially prefabricated houses from Germany.

What do you think about this statement? Are prefabricated houses really cheaper? Are prefabricated houses from Germany less expensive than those from Switzerland? What "risks" should be expected? Could you possibly recommend contacts for prefabricated house builders in Germany?

Thank you very much for your feedback!
P
parcus
10 Oct 2009 18:39
Hello,

although I can’t identify a low-energy standard in the mentioned construction method, the friends are right that factory production is generally more efficient than on-site building. However, this may also result in a shorter lifecycle.

A high low-energy standard is crucial here, as there is little opportunity for improvements later on.

I am also currently considering, together with a Swiss colleague, having a passive house built from Germany. Despite the higher transportation costs for building materials, we are currently estimating 20-30% savings depending on the trade. Some trades remain in Switzerland due to liability and on-site service.

Best regards
P
parcus
6 Dec 2009 09:58
Quote from point 1
All walls are covered on both sides with 15 mm (0.6 inch) thick gypsum fiber boards.

Quote from point 3
Wooden houses can achieve the same sound insulation values as masonry houses.

Oops, but in that case, you shouldn’t follow the approach described in point 1 😉

“Flexible shell structures” should not be executed with the same thickness.
Using this principle and special infill materials, it is even possible to build near airports.
However, the frequency ranges and surface types are also very important here.

Best regards