Estimating Materials for Constructing a 700 sq ft House: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to constructing a new 700 sq ft house, accurately estimating the required materials is a crucial step in the planning phase. Several factors contribute to the total material requirements, including design, number of stories, materials used, and local building codes. This guide provides a basic overview to help you get started.

Foundation Materials

The foundation is the foundation of any house construction. For a 700 sq ft house, the typical slab foundation will require:

Concrete: Approximately 3-4 cubic yards. Rebar: Around 200-300 lbs for reinforcement.

Consult local building codes and specifications for the exact requirements based on the ground conditions and local standards.

Framing Materials

The framing of the house is the skeletal structure that supports the entire building. For a typical 700 sq ft house, you will need:

Lumber: 2x4s for walls: About 600-800 linear feet, roughly 150-200 pieces. 2x6s for roof trusses: About 200-300 linear feet. Plywood/OSB: For walls: Approximately 30-35 sheets measuring 4x8 ft. For roofing: About 20-25 sheets.

Roofing Materials

The roofing materials will protect the house from weather elements. For a 700 sq ft house, the typical choices are:

Shingles: About 20-25 bundles for asphalt shingles. Underlayment: Approximately 3-5 rolls, depending on the roof design.

Insulation and Drywall

Insulation and drywall are important for energy efficiency and comfort. For a 700 sq ft house, you will need:

Fiberglass Batts: About 1200-1500 sq ft, depending on the wall and ceiling thickness. Drywall: Approximately 30-35 sheets, measuring 4x8 ft, for interior walls.

Finishing Materials

The finishing materials are the final touches that make the house look and function well. For a 700 sq ft house, you will need:

Paint: About 5 gallons for interior walls, applying two coats. Trim: Approximately 300-400 linear feet for baseboards, door, and window trim.

Interior and Exterior Finishes

A more detailed breakdown of the finishes and materials needed includes the following considerations:

Exterior Walls and Heights: Include the length and height of exterior walls for materials like siding and bricks. Roof Pitch, Overhangs, and Eaves: Details such as roof pitch, overhangs, and eaves are crucial for material estimation. Decking, Flooring, and Other Finishes: Material like hardwood laminate or tile for flooring, 700 sq ft plus 10% for wastages. Windows and Door Frames: Materials needed for these components should be included in the estimate.

Electrical and Plumbing

The electrical and plumbing systems are vital for any house. For a 700 sq ft house, the estimated requirements are:

Wiring: About 1000-1200 linear feet of electrical wiring. Outlets and Switches: Approximately 20-25 outlets and 5-10 switches. Pipes: Around 200-300 feet of PVC or copper piping. Fixtures: Basic fixtures like a kitchen sink, one bathroom sink, a toilet, and one shower/tub are essential.

Summary

This detailed breakdown provides a rough estimate of the materials needed for constructing a 700 sq ft house. However, it is essential to consult with local contractors or builders for a more accurate assessment, tailored to specific needs and local conditions.

Additional Considerations:

Local building codes and specifications Design specifics Material choices based on cost and performance

For a more detailed and precise material requirement, it's advisable to have a professional review and approve your plans. Visiting a local building supply store or consulting with professionals can also provide valuable insights.