With the lumber prices on the rise, Habitat for Humanity saved around 15 percent per square foot when compared to regular building costs by choosing 3D house printing.
They didn’t use wood, but rather concrete which is also better at retaining temperature. This helps save up money in the long run on heating and cooling and the home is also more resistant to hurricanes and tornadoes.
April Stringfield has been employed at a nearby hotel for five years now and logged 300 sweat equity hours (volunteering) with Habitat for Humanity and the Habitat Homebuyer Program helped her purchase this home.
The Full 3D Printed House of Habitat for Humanity Is Sold to Its New Owner
The house was built as a collaboration between Habitat for Humanity Peninsula, Greater Williamsburg, and the 3D printing home construction company Alquist.
Now, April and her 13-year-old son have their dream house, spreading on 1200 square feet, which they call their home. Located in Williamsburg, Virginia, this house features two full baths and three bedrooms.
And, it was built in only 12 hours and the costs involved were much lower than for other homes of its size. Alquist uses concrete for 3D home printing and they save up to 15 percent per square foot for the building costs. Same as other Habitat for Humanity homes, this 3D-printed one is EarthCraft certified.
April Stringfield and her son moved into their new home late last year. The mortgage payments won’t go over more than 30 percent of her income. This price also includes real estate taxes and insurance.
Stringfield says she doesn’t regret giving time to the organization. Her home comes with a 3D printer so that she can easily make replacement parts for her home when she needs them.
The need for affordable houses is on the rise globally. It’s essential to build durable and eco-friendly affordable homes and 3D printing may be the answer.
Sources: