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  1. #1
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    US style construction

    Hi everyone,

    I decided to post this on a different thread. So basically, we are planning to build a house in Thailand. However, I have several questions in my mind that just bothers me.

    1. Is it (a) possible, (b) suitable [for the climate], (c) practical to build houses in Thailand using the methodology we use here in the US.
    - That is basically build the house frame and then use sheet rock/dry walls to build the interior and exterior walls and then fill the gap with insulation (fiber glass). This can give a total R value of up to 21 (depending on grade and thickness of the fiber glass).

    2. Know any company who would sell the materials I'm talking about?

    Thanks a bunch!

    Kim

  2. #2
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    Another thing, do they have latex based paints in Thailand? Or is it still oil based even for the interiors?

  3. #3
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    The problem is believe it or not wood is quite expensive here and termites are definitely a big problem. I haven't seen metal framework for construction like they use in Hawaii although it may be out there. A galvanized thin wall steel metal frame house, Hardiplank type exterior, metal roof and trusses, insulation, and drywall inside would work out well here, My house in Hawaii was like that, no worries of termites and strong enough to withstand Typhoons. Look in some of the major chains (Home Mart, Global, etc.), they may have the supplies available. Unfortunately I didn't have the time to sort it all out (still working outside of Thailand most of the time) before I built my house although I am generally happy with what I have. What I would see as the main problem is finding someone who could understand how to build it!!! Things are a little different here as you will find out if you endevor to build here. Good luck, you'll need it!

  4. #4
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    Oh I forgot, latex paints are commonly sold and used in Thailand, oil based are much more expensive.

  5. #5
    Days Work Done! Norton's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by luesak
    1. Is it (a) possible, (b) suitable [for the climate], (c) practical to build houses in Thailand using the methodology we use here in the US.
    a) Possible but not cost effective. b) Yes. c) Not practical. Local builder's have no experience.

    A couple of good examples of Thai building standard.

    A medium/low cost bungalow.

    https://teakdoor.com/building-in-thai...n-dummies.html

    A 2 story built in CM city.

    https://teakdoor.com/building-in-thai...-the-city.html
    "Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect,"

  6. #6
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    Everyone,

    Thanks for the information. that was really informative.

    Thanks again this forum is super.

    Kim

  7. #7
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    steel framing is avaliable in thailand... just google it. so is plaster board and most common western building materials.

  8. #8
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    Sorry to disappoint you , but forget it.
    Having being a union carpenter in NY for many years, I asked the same question when I first got here.
    The answer is. If you are thinking of stick build construction , Wood is too expensive here, In the US there is a huge lumber industry , that provides , kiln dried , 2x4,2x6,2x8, 2x10 and 2x12 yellow pine, and doug fir studs .relatively inexpensive, This is not available here.
    Metal studs and Drywall are available. But I suggest you use them only for interior walls.
    Thais are masters of concrete, Properly supervised, they build a great house, for a low price, $60,000 usd can build you a very nice home, that will last for ever. If you are planning to build here, I suggest you follow this and some of the other construction forums in Thailand, and you will get a feel for building techniques here.
    The sooner you fall behind, the more time you have to catch up.

  9. #9
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    Buckaroo,

    It's great to have a native US take on this one. Thanks! This forum has indeed been very informative. A lifesaver for sure!

    Kim

  10. #10
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    Quote Originally Posted by luesak
    It's great to have a native US take on this one. Thanks! This forum has indeed been very informative. A lifesaver for sure!
    Life saving will come in when you read the threads about traffic.

    But sure you can get good advice on building here.

  11. #11
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    Alright guys, another question. Is insulation a double edged sword? That is, say we open up the windows to get some fresh air... but because the air is also hot, heat gets into the house. Now that we have the house nicely insulated.... would it feel like an oven in there?

  12. #12
    Days Work Done! Norton's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by luesak
    Now that we have the house nicely insulated.... would it feel like an oven in there?
    Not if you have windows and doors situated so rooms get ventilated. Breeze in one side, heat out the other. Naturally rooms will be about same temp as outside with windows and doors open.

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