Cost-effective alternatives to construction in Ghana today

The challenge of providing affordable housing to the majority of citizens is a pressing issue in many countries, particularly in Ghana. The soaring prices of homes can be largely attributed to the rising costs of building materials.

As the prices of these raw materials escalate, so too do the costs of constructing homes, making them increasingly unaffordable for the average Ghanaian. This highlights the role that building materials play in the overall affordability of housing in the country. To tackle this issue, it is essential to explore alternative building materials that can help reduce housing costs.

As many citizens find themselves priced out of the housing market, the dream of owning a suitable home remains unattainable for a large segment of the population. This situation calls for urgent action and innovative solutions to address the underlying issues contributing to the housing crisis.

Some alternatives to construction in Ghana

Countries around the world have been proactive in addressing similar housing challenges, investing in research and development to discover new, cost-effective building solutions. There's a saying in Ghana: "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now." The same could be said for adopting and leveraging innovative materials and methods, these nations aim to alleviate their housing deficits and provide more accessible options for their citizens. Below, are some alternatives that can potentially lower the cost of construction while ensuring sustainability and efficiency.

1. EXPLORING CONCRETE ALTERNATIVES: Concrete is one of the most widely used materials in construction, second only to water. Its strength and durability has made it a staple in building projects around the world. However, the price and environmental impact of concrete production have prompted the search for sustainable alternatives. Fortunately, several innovative materials can serve as effective substitutes for traditional concrete, offering both cost savings and enhanced structural performance.

As the construction industry continues to grow, the demand for cost saving and sustainable building materials have become increasingly critical.

One promising alternative is Ferrock, an innovative material composed of up to 95% recycled materials. Ferrock is made from byproducts such as recycled steel dust, iron-rich ferrous rock, and silica sourced from recycled glass. When mixed with water, this remarkable compound forms a material that is not only environmentally friendly but also up to five times stronger than traditional concrete.

Ferrock's unique properties include increased flexibility and superior resistance to oxidation and corrosion. This makes it an excellent choice for various construction applications, especially in environments where durability is paramount. However, availability can be a challenge, as it is derived from niche industries, which may limit its widespread use in some regions.

Another viable option is fly ash, a fine powder produced as a byproduct of burning coal. This material is rich in mineral impurities and, when combined with water and lime, transforms into a substance that closely resembles Portland cement. Fly ash is particularly valuable in the production of concrete blocks, bricks, and poured concrete, making it a versatile choice for various construction projects.

Recognized for its environmental benefits, fly ash requires less water for mixing compared to traditional cement, and it is typically more cost-effective. However, it is important to note that fly ash can present challenges, such as variability in color consistency and longer curing times.

2. PREFABRICATED HOMES: One promising alternative is the use of prefabricated homes, commonly referred to as modular homes. In this construction method, various components of a building are manufactured in a factory setting and then transported to the construction site for assembly. The concept of prefabricated homes gained traction in the aftermath of World War II when the U.S. government faced the daunting task of constructing approximately 850,000 homes in under two years.

Prefabricated homes offer several advantages, particularly in terms of cost and efficiency. These homes can often be assembled in as little as two days, a stark contrast to traditional building methods, which can take six months or longer to complete.

This rapid construction not only reduces labor costs but also minimizes the environmental impact, contributing to a cleaner building process. For example, in Australia, the acceptance of prefabricated buildings is gradually increasing, with the construction of apartments and healthcare facilities gaining popularity. Manufacturers report that the time required for construction can decrease by up to 40%, and labor costs can drop by 20%.

Ghana's history with prefabricated construction dates back to 1952 when the country attempted to implement a program for prefabricated buildings.

Unfortunately, this initiative failed. The failure can be attributed to several factors, including a lack of economic and social support structures necessary to sustain the program. At that time, the government had not allocated sufficient funds to cover the costs associated with constructing the prefabricated homes.

Furthermore, the collaboration with a Dutch company required the construction of 9,000 houses annually, a target that proved unrealistic without the necessary infrastructure in place. The absence of factories to produce the prefabricated materials further hindered the initiative's success.

Moving forward and given the lessons learned from past attempts, it is a call for Ghana to revisit the concept of prefabricated construction with a renewed focus on sustainability and practicality. By investing in the necessary infrastructure and fostering public-private partnerships, the government can create an environment conducive to the successful implementation of alternative building methods.

3. RECYCLED MATERIALS: Recycled materials, far from being mere waste, present a viable and economical solution for constructing homes. This innovative approach not only benefits the environment but also provides affordable housing options.

A remarkable example of this concept in action is seen in Colombia, where a company, Conceptos Plásticos has pioneered the use of waste materials, especially plastics, to construct homes. By transforming discarded plastics into building materials, the company has created a sustainable model that addresses both waste management and housing shortages. The process involves adding special additives to the plastics to enhance their heat resistance.

The modified plastics are then molded and subjected to a thermic shock by placing them in cold water, which solidifies their form. This innovative technique allows for the construction of homes without the need for highly skilled labor. In fact, individuals can learn to build these homes in less than a day.

Building with recycled materials using the Conceptos Plásticos method is akin to assembling Lego blocks. The molds are stacked on top of one another, creating a sturdy structure. A team of just four people can construct a 40-square-meter house in as little as five days. This efficiency not only lowers construction time but also significantly reduces labor costs, making housing more accessible.

Aside the use of plastics, using reclaimed materials such as wood, bricks, or steel from demolition sites can reduce cost of construction. Ghana’s growing cities are witnessing the demolition of old structures, providing a wealth of reusable materials for new construction. Reclaimed materials can be used for foundations, walls, or even aesthetic finishes.

The environmental impact of using recycled materials in construction is substantial. By repurposing these materials that would otherwise contribute to landfill waste, this method helps mitigate pollution and promotes a circular economy.

The potential for this innovative construction method to address housing challenges in Ghana is significant. By adopting similar practices, Ghana can utilize its own waste materials to provide affordable housing for its citizens.

4. USING SHIPPING CONTAINERS: Repurposing shipping containers has emerged as an innovative solution for creating affordable and unique living and working spaces. While often perceived as a housing option for the economically disadvantaged, the reality is that using shipping containers can add distinctive character and functionality to any structure.

Shipping containers are versatile structures that can be transformed into stylish homes or offices. Shipping containers may not be the most visually appealing choice at first glance, however, they offer an opportunity for creative customization. With creativity and ingenuity, these containers can be modified to fit a range of aesthetic preferences, turning what may initially seem like an unattractive option into an appealing living space.

A downside to constructing homes out of shipping containers is that Ghana is found in the tropical zone. A major concern is that shipping containers can become excessively hot, especially in direct sunlight. To mitigate this issue however, it is essential to insulate the interior of the containers. Using materials such as fiberglass insulation can significantly reduce the amount of heat retained within the building.

Additionally, incorporating ventilation systems and strategically placed windows can enhance airflow, ensuring a more comfortable environment.

One of the most significant advantages of using shipping containers is the substantial reduction in building costs. Traditional construction methods often require extensive resources, labor, and time. In contrast, shipping containers can be acquired at a fraction of the cost, allowing homeowners and businesses to allocate their budgets more effectively.

Utilizing shipping containers for construction also aligns with sustainable building practices. This cost-effectiveness is particularly beneficial in Ghana, where affordable housing solutions are desperately needed.

5. BAMBOO AND RAMMED EARTH CONSTRUCTION: Bamboo and rammed earth both offer unique advantages, particularly in regions where they can be sourced locally, making them ideal for environmentally conscious building practices.

Bamboo is a remarkable building material known for its strength, flexibility, and rapid growth. As a sustainable resource, it can be harvested within just a few years, making it an ideal choice for construction, especially in forest-rich areas like Ghana's Ashanti Region. This fast-growing plant not only provides a renewable source of timber but also has a significantly lower environmental impact compared to conventional lumber.

Bamboo's versatility allows it to be used in a variety of construction applications, from residential homes to eco-friendly tourism structures. Its lightweight nature reduces transportation costs, making it an economically viable option for builders. In addition, bamboo's inherent properties make it suitable for earthquake-prone regions, as it can absorb and dissipate seismic energy effectively.

In Ghana, where many rural communities face challenges in accessing affordable building materials, bamboo offers a cost-effective solution.

Rammed earth construction on the other hand is a time-tested technique that involves compacting soil into forms to create solid, durable walls. This method utilizes locally sourced earth, making it an environmentally friendly choice that reduces reliance on costly building materials. The natural composition of rammed earth provides excellent thermal mass, contributing to energy efficiency in various climates.

This construction method is particularly advantageous in areas with abundant soil resources. The cooling properties of rammed earth make it suitable for hot climates, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling.

In rural Ghana, rammed earth can be utilized to construct community centers, schools, and homes, providing resilient structures that blend harmoniously with the environment. Both bamboo and rammed earth construction represent innovative and sustainable solutions for addressing housing and infrastructure needs in Ghana.

As the world moves towards more sustainable building practices, embracing materials like bamboo and rammed earth can pave the way for a greener future.

CONCLUSION

Ghana’s housing crisis, exacerbated by the rising costs of traditional building materials, requires innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. The above techniques, provides innovative ways which Ghana can reduce construction costs, address its housing deficit, and move toward more sustainable development practices. These solutions not only align with the country's economic and environmental goals but also promote the development of resilient, affordable housing for all.