The saying “all that glitters is not gold” holds true, especially when it comes to purchasing a dream home. Shallow marketing strategies can lure potential buyers into investing in new constructions that may not meet their expectations. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate keenly before investing in a newly constructed home.
A home is not just a place to live but also where one sees their loved ones grow and flourish together. However, it is essential to ensure that the new home is sturdy and reliable. Relying on word-of-mouth from the market about the builder may not always be the best option. Therefore, neutral parameters should be used to test the quality of the constructed homes.
A good quality construction home is safe and sound for its inhabitants and remains occupiable for a long time. It also incurs no undue repair or maintenance costs and may fetch a good resale value in the future. Whether buying a bungalow, row-house, or flat in an apartment, it is inevitable to test the quality of construction.
To assess a new home’s construction quality, factors like the quality of raw materials used, the expertise of the builders, the construction techniques used, and compliance with safety codes should be considered. It is essential to hire a professional home inspector who can thoroughly examine the property and identify any potential issues that may arise in the future.
In conclusion, purchasing a new home is a significant investment that requires careful consideration. One should not fall prey to shallow marketing strategies and investigate keenly to ensure that the new home meets their expectations and is of good quality.
Check the soil, first
One of the key factors in determining the strength and longevity of a building is the quality of the soil on which it is built. It is essential to ensure that the soil is strong and stable enough to support the foundation of the building. Before construction begins, builders and architects usually perform soil tests to determine the quality and type of soil.
To ensure the quality of the soil, it is recommended to request a soil quality report from the builder or architect. The report will provide information about the type of soil, its properties, and any potential issues that may affect the foundation of the building. It is also advisable to have an independent architect or engineer assess the soil to ensure that it is suitable for construction.
Ideally, the soil should be loamy, sandy, or chalky, as these types of soil provide a stable foundation and allow for easy water drainage. On the other hand, clayey or black-cotton soil can cause problems as they shrink or swell on drying or wetting. It is essential to ensure that the soil is of good quality to prevent any future problems and ensure the safety and durability of the building.
Check structure
When buying a new home, verifying the design and structure of the building is crucial. The design and structure of a building determine how well the building can withstand natural calamities such as earthquakes, tornadoes, and hurricanes. If a building is not structurally sound, it can lead to safety hazards and potential damage to the building. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the design of the building is appropriate and structurally sound.
If you are a buyer, you may ask the builder for the design layout and get it verified by an expert to evaluate the quality of the walls, beams, roofs, and columns. A structural engineer or architect can provide expert advice on the building’s design and structural integrity. They can also evaluate whether the building has firefighting equipment, emergency exits, etc.
Quality construction is designed in such a way that the weight of the entire structure is evenly and scientifically distributed. It is essential to check that the building has a robust foundation and that the walls are made of good-quality materials. A well-designed and structured building will ensure the safety of the inhabitants and will last for a long time.
Analyse concrete
When it comes to assessing the quality of a newly constructed building, one crucial aspect to examine is the concrete used in its construction. The strength and resilience of a building depend largely on the quality of the concrete used, which is why it is important to gauge this aspect of the construction process.
Builders generally use a specific ratio of concrete to sand that ensures adequate strength and durability for the building. It is essential to ensure that the concrete ratio used is appropriate for the building’s load-bearing requirements. One can ask the builder for a laboratory report on the concrete-sand ratio or have the concrete quality tested by a professional.
Another simple way to test the concrete quality is by attempting to drive a nail into the wall. If the nail goes in easily, it is a sign that the construction is not of good quality, and the concrete used may not be strong enough to support the structure. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the concrete quality carefully to ensure that the building will be sturdy and reliable for its intended purpose.
Plaster quality
Before painting the newly constructed home, it’s important to assess the quality of the plaster. Poor plaster quality can lead to various problems such as water leaks, cracks, and peeling of paint. It’s best to address these issues before painting to ensure the durability and longevity of the paint job.
To assess the plaster quality, check for any cracks or inconsistencies on the surface of the walls. If there are any cracks, no matter how small they may seem, it’s crucial to get them fixed. Cracks can indicate poor plaster quality, which may lead to further damage in the future.
During monsoons, the problems with poor plaster quality become more apparent as water leaks may occur. In case of water leaks, it’s important to identify the root cause of the issue and get it fixed immediately. Collaborating with the builder can be helpful in resolving such issues.
In conclusion, assessing the quality of plaster before painting and fixing any issues can save you a lot of trouble and expenses in the long run.
Quality of paint
Evaluating the quality of paint is crucial as it can significantly impact the appearance and longevity of the walls. It’s essential to ensure that the paint used is of good quality and suitable for the climate in which the home is located. The right type of paint can help protect the walls from external elements such as heat, moisture, and dust.
One should check the paint finish and see if it’s smooth, uniform, and without bubbles or brush marks. The paint should also be applied evenly and consistently. If the paint is of poor quality, it may crack, peel, or fade over time, requiring frequent repainting and additional expenses.
It’s advisable to opt for high-quality paint from reputable brands, even if it means spending a little extra. The additional cost may be worth it in the long run, as the walls will require less maintenance and last longer. Before painting, ensure that the walls are thoroughly cleaned, dry, and free of any debris or dust.
Check thickness of walls of your newly constructed home
Verifying the thickness of the walls is an important aspect of assessing the quality of a newly constructed home. Builders may mention the wall thickness in the layout design, but it is crucial to confirm that the specifications match the actual thickness of the constructed building.
One way to check the thickness of the walls is by tapping them with your knuckles. This can help detect hollowness or the usage of plywood inside the walls. However, it is important to note that builders may use plywood to strengthen their walls, but if not treated appropriately, they may be vulnerable to termite damage.
Another way to verify the thickness of the walls is by hiring a construction expert or an architect to assess them scientifically. This can provide a more accurate measurement and help identify any structural issues that may be present.
It is important to ensure that the walls are thick enough to provide adequate insulation and support for the structure of the building. Thin walls may not only compromise the safety and stability of the home but also lead to higher energy bills due to poor insulation. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the thickness of the walls to ensure the quality of the newly constructed home.
Miscellaneous
In addition to the above factors, there are some other aspects that must be considered while evaluating the quality of a newly constructed home. Firstly, it is essential to cross-check whether the developer has fulfilled all the promises made in their brochure regarding additional facilities like elevators, play areas, parking facilities, etc. This will ensure that the buyer is not duped by any false promises made by the developer.
Secondly, the quality of the doors and windows must be thoroughly checked. Poor quality doors and windows not only compromise the security of the home but also lead to increased maintenance costs. It is advisable to ensure that the doors and windows are sturdy, durable, and provide adequate protection against the elements.
Additionally, it is important to check for any signs of water leakage or seepage in the walls, floors, and ceilings. These issues may not be immediately apparent but can cause significant damage to the structure of the building in the long run. Similarly, electrical and plumbing systems must also be checked for any potential problems.
Overall, a thorough evaluation of the various aspects of a newly constructed home is essential to ensure that it is of good quality and worth the investment. It is advisable to engage the services of a professional architect or construction expert to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the property.
The adage “don’t judge a book by its cover” also applies to real estate. Developers often use persuasive marketing tactics to attract potential buyers by showcasing flashy amenities and innovative design concepts. However, it is the responsibility of the buyer to scrutinize the construction quality before investing in a property, as buying a home is a substantial investment that can immobilize funds for an extended period due to low liquidity.
When purchasing a new home, it is important to keep in mind that many dreams, aspirations, and expectations are associated with it. Therefore, being cautious is crucial. Safety and security should be a top priority when evaluating construction quality. This article offers several suggestions, such as checking the soil quality, design and structure, concrete and plaster quality, wall thickness, and paint quality. Additionally, it is important to verify the promised amenities such as elevators, parking facilities, and play areas.
The quality of doors and windows should also be examined since they are essential components that can be costly to repair or replace. By thoroughly examining the construction quality, the buyer can ensure that their investment is safe, secure, and sustainable. It is advisable to heed these suggestions and exercise caution before making a final decision when purchasing a new home.