A quantitative comparison of construction costs for similar housing units for prefabricated container housing versus conventional brick and mortar methods.

Abstract

In recent years, the housing industry has been searching for more affordable and sustainable building methods. One such method that has gained popularity is the use of prefabricated container housing. The purpose of this study is to compare the construction costs of similar housing units built using prefabricated container housing and conventional brick and mortar methods. This research uses a quantitative approach, utilizing data collected from building contractors and construction companies that have experience in both prefabricated container housing and conventional brick and mortar methods. The data collected includes information on construction costs such as materials, labor, transportation, and other related expenses. The findings of this study indicate that prefabricated container housing is more cost-effective than conventional brick and mortar methods. The cost savings in prefabricated container housing construction are primarily due to reduced labor costs, lower material costs, and faster construction time. These advantages make prefabricated container housing an attractive alternative to traditional building methods, especially in developing countries where affordable housing is a significant challenge. Moreover, the study highlights some of the disadvantages of using prefabricated container housing, such as the limited design options and potential durability issues. These disadvantages, however, do not outweigh the significant cost savings associated with prefabricated container housing. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the cost-effectiveness of prefabricated container housing versus conventional brick and mortar methods. The findings can be used by construction professionals, policymakers, and developers in making informed decisions about the most appropriate building methods to use for similar housing units. Keywords: Construction Costs, Prefabricated Container Housing, Conventional Brick and Mortar Methods, Housing Units, Quantitative Comparison.