THE MODULE

from The Module

by Megan Spoor

Affordability Through Adaptability

A modular cyclone-resistant housing kit for the South Pacific

Module Dimensions : 2m x 4.5m

The kit : Currently proposed as 4-6 Modules

Approx Module Cost : £1,000 per module, £800 per secondary attached module. The Kit (4-6 modules) costs approximately £3,500-£5,500.

Module Kit cost for community members :£2300-£3700

The Module is a government funded, cyclone-resistant housing kit for communities in the South Pacific. The simple timber frame provides affordability through adaptability, through the use of local materials and incremental expansion.

The Module will be delivered to site as a set of parts, to be assembled by the local community. Through on-site construction training you will develop knowledge on the cyclone-resistant features of the Module and how to safely adapt your home. Once constructed, the Module can be in-filled with materials available to your family, either grown locally or purchased, enabling you to adapt your home to suit financial and climatic restraints.

The following pages explain the cyclone-resistant features of the Module Kit and the Do’s and Dont’s for adapting your home.

Orientate gable ends EastWest to reduce overheating.

Assembly

Assemble the frame on the ground.

Adaptable overhangs allow for shading North and South.

Orientate house to catch prevailing winds to aid ventilation and reduce humidity.

The frame consists of 6x2 and 8x2 timber. Use 5 “ nails and steel cyclone strapping at each joint.

Dig foundations at least 0.75m deep. The timber post it bolted to a steel strap, set within reinforced concrete. Remember to leave a gap between the steel strap and the post, as this will prevent rotting.

Elevation of the Module 1:50 A1

YOU WILL NEED

Lift frames onto foundations, a small crane will be needed. Secure frame with both nails and cyclone strapping.

Brace frames from strong point to strong point. Remember to brace each wall, below the roof and around all doors and windows.

STRONG KEEP CYCLONES

NAILS ARE NOT ENOUGH. REINFORCE EVERY CONNECTION.

CYCLONE NAILS USE MORE NAILS AT ROOF EDGE.

CORRUGATED STEEL ROOFING SHEETS. THIS HELPS HEAT THE AIR THAT PASSES THROUGH YOUR HOUSE TO REDUCE HUMIDITY.

A FIXED OVERHANG WILL ENABLE A CYCLONE TO DESTROY YOUR ROOF. AN EXPOSED ROOF TRUSS PROVIDES A REMOVABLE OVERHANG TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE COOL AND PROTECT FACADE FROM RAIN.