Costa Rica Construction: Light-weight Systems Flourish

The construction panorama in Costa Rica has changed with new architectural designs, construction materials and techniques.

New alternatives include light-weight walls
and partitions, no less resistant than traditional materials, made of fiber-cement
(reinforced cement), plaster and recycled paper, silicons and other materials
that blend easily, allowing for faster work and lower labor costs.

Some architects believes that these new materials have become popular because
clients have seen how well they work in other countries. The new materials allow greater versatility in design as well. Another architect said the cost of
construction, with the new materials, could decrease as much as 25 percent,
compared to a building of cement blocks or similar materials.

New materials include cement and plaster panels, covered in fiberglass that are
used for exteriors, are not affected by humidity and which can be stuccoed.

Fiber-cement. These sheets are composed of cement, natural fibers and other
minerals. They have been used in upscale locales such as the Four Seasons Hotel
as well as for basic housing for the poor. Installing these panels is not complicated.
They can be nailed, screwed and even attached to each other with special clamps.

A fiber-cement wall in a metal structure weighs approximately 35 kilos per square
meter. A block or concrete wall weighs between 150 to 200 kilos per square meter.
This difference in weight helps save on construction costs in terms of preparation
and building the foundation that supports the structure.

Furthermore, with this system the use and preparation of mixtures is not necessary
so materials are not wasted and earth movement is reduced, leading to a more environmentally
friendly structure.

More variety. Products that can be used on interior and exterior walls.

Laminas JPM: These sheets are made of a mixture of plaster, water and recycled
paper fibers, which through a pressing and baking process, create a highly resistant
panel. Can be used for interior and exterior walls, ceilings, and eaves. The panels
come 1.22 m. wide by 2.44 m. long and are sold by the unit. The company also has
designs, special screws, and a line of glues, wall coverings, mortars to create
finishes.

Fiberock: A panel composed of recycled paper, plasters, cellulose and silicons.
It is resistant to water, mold, and humidity, and can be used on exterior walls,
eaves, ceilings and many other applications. The reverse of the panel has a pattern
in relief, which facilitates the run-off of water and gives it a longer life.
The panel does not have papers to peal off and does not lose resistance on being
cut.

Gypsum: This material allows varied finishes of ceiling and walls. The
panels are strong and flexible. They are made from pulverized plaster and are
covered with heavy cardboard. The exposed surface is completely smooth, and comes
in a natural color. Coatings, paint or wallpaper can be attached. Panels come
in 12 x 16 m. sheets, for walls and ceilings, but also can be had in 6.6 mm.,
6 and 9 mm., that are ideal for curves and more complex designs.

Other options:

1. Soffit: A panel that has been prepared to resist humidity even more.
Nevertheless, its use is limited to eaves or ceilings. It comes 1/2 inch thick.

2. Dens Glass: This panel is made with a nucleus of plaster and its top
side is covered with fiberglass, which is ideal for walls, eaves, and ceilings.
It can be stuccoed or tiles can be applied to it for a more modern look. Panels
come 1.22 m. x 2.44 m and are 1/2 inch thick.

3. Fibrolit: Lightweight and resistant to mistreatment and tremors. Made
of sheets of fiber-cement, which can offer a variety of details for ceilings and
interior and exterior wall finishes. The thickness of the panel and the metal
frames depend on the structure’s function.

Our thanks to Gloriana Gomez and our friends at La Nacion – Costa
Rica’s largest Spanish circulation newspaper for their permission to use
this article…

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Andrew Makarik

to@welovecostarica.com

Andrew Makarik is the main editor of WeLoveCostaRica, a fan of this sunny country. He is also a loving husband and a has a lovely daughter. By being a devoted family man and the biggest Costa Rica fan, he wants to make more people feel at home there. WeLoveCostaRica unites people and helps them find new home or a new travel destination. This website is a friendly community where everyone can find not only information, but also new friends and travel pals. Andrew is also passionate about IT and programming, so he himself maintains a friendly atmosphere in this cozy environment of WeLoveCostaRica.com.