Houses in Bali typically feature open floor plans, large windows, the use of local materials, and decorative elements such as wood and traditional carvings. The island's architecture is vibrant, memorable, and authentic. However, advanced technologies are used in construction to ensure earthquake-resistant, durable, and reliable properties. In this article, we will explore the most common construction methods used in Bali today.
Content:
- Most in-demand residential construction methods
- Characteristics of bamboo construction
- The use of compacted earth in construction
- The use of structural beams in rapid construction technologies
- Micro piles in construction
- Let us help you buy property in Bali!
Most in-demand residential construction methods
More and more buyers in Bali are looking for homes built using eco-friendly technologies. These methods include the use of recyclable and natural materials, efficient energy use, rainwater collection systems, and other techniques that contribute to the renewal of natural resources and reduce the negative impact on the environment.
Solar panels are also worth mentioning. Due to the abundance of sunlight on the island, more and more apartment complexes and houses are installing them to generate electricity. This reduces dependence on the grid.
In terms of materials, bamboo is often used. It combines strength and flexibility, making it ideal for creating various structures, including house frames, pergolas, and fences. In some regions of the island where there isn't a seismic threat, stone materials are used for construction. Stone provides stability and resistance to external factors.
Compacted earth is another effective building solution. This ancient construction method has great potential in the modern context due to its environmental friendliness, durability, and aesthetics.
Characteristics of bamboo construction
Bamboo is a grass that can grow to a height of 1.25 meters in just 24 hours. The stalks mature in 3-5 years and are widely used in construction. It is a strong and durable material, comparable to steel and concrete. A specific type of bamboo plant is used for construction, Dendrocalamus Asper or "Petung." Dendrocalamus asper, also known as giant bamboo or iron bamboo, is found in many regions of Southeast Asia, including Bali and Java. It is one of the most common and widely used bamboo species for construction due to its strong and flexible stems.
Well treated and selected mature bamboo within a properly designed structure requires minimal maintenance. It only needs to be coated once with weather resistant materials before construction begins. Additional treatment against insects is not necessary. Bamboo houses are built with protection from the sun and rain in mind, allowing the quality and strength of the structure to be maintained over time. Long-term maintenance of a bamboo structure consists mainly of cosmetic repairs to maintain its attractive appearance.
The use of compacted earth in construction
The use of compacted earth in modern construction has many advantages and a rich history. Among the most famous examples of structures built using this method is the Great Wall of China. This method of building houses combines Bali's architectural heritage with modern construction principles.
One of the main advantages of compacted earth construction is its environmental friendliness. The materials used are produced locally, in line with Bali's commitment to sustainable development and reducing the island's carbon footprint. This approach reduces transportation and labor costs, minimizing environmental impact.
In addition, compacted earth has a unique aesthetic that gives structures a distinctive appearance. The natural colors and textures of earth walls blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
The compacted earth construction process involves several key steps:
- Create a frame: This frame serves as the base for the compacted earth. It can be made of wood, metal or other materials and must be strong enough to withstand the loads.
- Filling the frame: The frame is filled with a mixture of local soil, which typically includes clay, sand, gravel, and stabilizers. This mixture must be carefully prepared to achieve the right balance of components to ensure the strength and stability of the compacted earth.
- Compaction: The earth is compacted layer by layer. This is a critical process because each layer must be thoroughly compacted to create a strong wall. Special tools such as compactors or hand tampers are typically used to achieve the required density.
When using compacted earth in construction on the island, weather conditions are always taken into consideration. As Bali has a humid climate, special measures are taken to protect the material from moisture to prevent softening or deterioration. Additional insulation or coatings can be used to adapt to the specific climate conditions of the island. To increase the load bearing capacity of compacted earth walls, stabilizers such as cement are applied. This helps strengthen the structure and provides additional durability. However, there is always a balance between strength requirements and sustainability goals, and excessive use of cement is not allowed.
Advantages of building with compacted earth:
- Unique aesthetics: Compacted earth walls have a distinctive appearance that reflects the natural colors and textures of the earth, enhancing the charm of the buildings.
- Use of local materials: Compacted earth allows the use of local resources, promoting sustainable development. This reduces carbon emissions associated with material transportation and conserves natural resources.
- Structural strength: Compacted earth offers high load-bearing capacity and can withstand significant forces, including high winds and seismic activity.
- Thermal insulation: Well-constructed compacted earth walls provide excellent thermal insulation, maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures in tropical climates.
- Fire resistance: Compacted earth is non-combustible, increasing the fire safety of buildings. It is less likely to ignite and spread fire, which is critical in regions with an increased risk of wildfires.
- Soundproofing: The material has good soundproofing properties, reducing noise transmission from the outside and ensuring peace and quiet in Bali's buildings.
The use of compacted earth not only creates aesthetically pleasing and durable buildings, but also reduces environmental impact, promotes the use of local materials, and ensures comfortable living conditions. This makes compacted earth construction an attractive choice in Bali and other regions with similar climatic characteristics.
The use of structural beams in rapid construction technologies
The use of steel beams is a primary component in rapid construction. Steel is the primary structural material due to its strength, load bearing capacity and structural integrity. In addition, it can be recycled, reducing waste. Steel beams can be installed throughout the year. Components are fabricated off-site with minimal on-site labor, reducing construction time by 20-40%. This ensures efficient and rapid assembly, a critical factor in construction projects.
Micro piles in construction
Anti-seismic and para-seismic technologies are also used in the construction of buildings in tropical conditions. Micro piles, which have proven their effectiveness in many regions of the world, are used especially in difficult soil conditions such as:
- Natural and man-made obstacles;
- Soft and fragile soils with adjacent structures;
- Loose, soft soils such as rice fields and sandy areas.
In the context of Bali and the entire Indonesian archipelago, the use of micro piles is one of the most effective and economically sound solutions, ensuring high quality and efficient construction.
Let us help you buy property in Bali!
Our real estate aggregator website offers a wide variety of residential and commercial properties, including apartments, houses, and villas. You'll be able to find the perfect option to suit your needs and budget. Convenient search and filter tools will help you quickly find properties with the desired parameters such as location, property type, price, and number of rooms. We invite you to start your search for your future home in Bali today!