The construction of a corrugated iron house is a cheap, hard-wearing, and effective form of housing for those who need cost-effective accommodation. Corrugated iron, an example of which is galvanized steel, is a very strong material used almost everywhere in construction because it is expected to be strong when traditional construction materials may not be readily available or may be cost-prohibitive. A corrugated iron house offers the ideal combination of strength and flexibility with a contemporary look and is suitable for a variety of climates and terrains. This sort of construction can be quite attractive especially in more rural settings or in areas with volatile weather. We will dive deep into the corrugated iron house, exploring its advantages and disadvantages, planning procedures, and the requirements for building and maintaining it.
What is a Corrugated Iron House?
Corrugated iron houses are structures made using corrugated iron or galvanized steel sheets. These sheets have a distinctive wavy or ridged surface, which not only enhances their strength and rigidity but also offers better resistance against weather conditions. The metal sheets are typically galvanized steel, coated with a layer of zinc to prevent rust and corrosion, making them a long-lasting material choice for both residential and industrial applications.
Corrugated Iron home design is increasingly used for homes because of its low cost, particularly in places where other building materials like bricks and wood are too costly or impractical. They are generally light and easy to assemble, and can be pre-fabricated off-site before being transported and bolted up. All of this makes the whole thing faster and more efficient than traditional methods of building.
Pros and Cons of Corrugated Iron House
Pros:
- Cost: Corrugated iron is one of the most cost-effective materials for building. It is also very cheap when compared to conventional construction materials like bricks or timber.
- Durable: Galvanization provides the iron with some protection from the environment and rust.
- Rapid Build: The prefabricated nature of corrugated iron homes means they can be built much faster than brick and wood homes.
- Sustainability: Iron is a material that can be recycled, and is therefore an eco-friendly option as opposed to some other building materials.
Cons:
- Heat: In regions with incredibly high temperatures, creating a hotbox effect with the use of corrugated iron could make the home less habitable, unless insulation is in place.
- Noise: Rain, and especially hail, can be very noisy on corrugated iron roofing, and that could bother some people.
- Limited Attractiveness: It has its own charm, but the look of corrugated iron may not suit everyone’s tastes in more urban or luxurious environments.
- Condensation: If your walls aren’t insulated, condensation can form inside them over time, resulting in damp and mould.
Considerations Before Planning Your Corrugated Iron House
Proper planning is crucial for constructing a corrugated iron house. First, we need to make a decision on the size and shape of the house. When designing the house, it is important to think about not only what will fit on the property, but also the climatic impact of the area, and the use of the house itself.
When planning, consider the following :
- Building permissions: Local regulations must be followed when planning a corrugated iron house. It is prudent to ensure you apply for the necessary planning permissions and clarify any uncertainties with the council before commencing construction.
- Site assessment: Assess your site so that you are aware of the lay of the land, the proximity to utility services (water, electricity, waste), and what risks the site may pose, such as heavy winds, flooding or landslides.
- Design: Employ an architect or designer who can realise the many advantages of using corrugated iron in the design of the house, in order to make it comfortable to live in as well as functional.
Materials and Tools Required
When constructing a corrugated iron house, here are the materials and tools you will need:
Materials:
- Corrugated Iron Sheets: The primary material used for the walls and roof.
- Timber or Steel Frame: To serve as the primary structure of the house.
- Insulation: Either reflective foil or foam insulation for reducing heat transfer and increasing comfort.
- Concrete or Steel Piles Foundation: The foundation is determined by the conditions of the site, whether it is a concrete slab or piers.
- Fasteners: Galvanized screws and bolts that will attach the iron sheets to the frame.
- Sealants: For waterproofing and rust prevention.
Tools:
- Power Drill: For drilling holes into the iron sheets.
- Cutting Tools: Metal cutting saws or metal shears to construct and carve the corrugated iron.
- Welding Tools: For welding the components of the steel frame.
- Measuring and Leveling Tools: To make sure that your construction is straight and proportionate.
- Safety Gear: Gloves, goggles, ear protection, etc.
Construction Process for Corrugated Iron House
- Site Quality: First, remove any debris, vegetation or other material located at or around the site. Level the area and create a solid ground base. The ground could simply be levelled, or foundations could be created using concrete or steel piers; either option may be suitable, depending upon local conditions or the design of your home.
- Framework: When the solid base is achieved, start the process of constructing a structural frame. A timber frame is most common, but steel frame members may be used. You must be sure that the frame is square and level because corrugated iron sheets are heavy and they will not sit well upon the skeletal frame
- Walls and Roof: The next step is to fix the walls and roof on the frame constructed above, place on sheet at a time, and screw one sheet down using galvanized screws, then move to the next, starting at one corner of the shed and working you way along, making sure that each sheet overlaps the previous sheet to prevent water from intruding.
- Insulation: An important option is to also have some insulation material between the cladding and the wall to assist with heat retention of the structure and/or reduce heat exposure inside the shed. The options of insulation are foam or reflective foil of many varieties, depending upon what you can afford and your climate. You should be able to research your insulation type easily.
- Finishing: When the roof was completed, it is important to seal up every joint. When the roof joints were sealed, finish your shed interior with any flooring options, adding windows, doors and any preferred optional such as plumbing and electricals.g flooring, windows, doors, and any additional fixtures like plumbing or electrical wiring.
Maintenance and Durability
Corrugated iron houses are known for their durability, but they still require regular maintenance to ensure they last for decades. Here’s what needs attention:
- Rust Prevention: Regularly inspect the iron sheets for signs of rust. Touch up any rust spots with anti-rust paint to prevent further damage.
- Cleaning: Clean the roof and walls periodically to remove dirt, debris, or moss that might accumulate.
- Sealants: Check the seals around windows and doors to ensure they remain watertight, especially after heavy rains or storms.
- Structural Integrity: Periodically inspect the frame and foundation to ensure there are no signs of wear or damage.
Conclusion
A corrugated iron house represents a practical, affordable, and long-lasting housing option, especially in places that have limited access to conventional building materials. While it has some challenges, including heat retaining capabilities and condensation, these can be treated with thoughtful planning, materials and ongoing maintenance. A corrugated iron house is a viable option for those building in remote areas or who need a housing solution quickly and at a low cost.
Apoorva H P Achar