rich w

Submitted by rdh2os on 20 July, 2008 - 08:29.

I have property and a house design at present. We plan on being in nica in Nov. to start construction. The area is south of San Juan Del Sur..20 min. or so I have a few issues to resolve and could use direction. 1- roof materials.. what is best and lasting? must support solar Are metal studs ( for interior) available?? Perhaps a reliable, knowledgeable foreman to oversee project while we are absent Rich

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From what you describe your property should be

between the El Tigre area and Coco.

If you are in that area I would strongly suggest Nicalite installed on steel support beams. As long as you paint the beams and cap the ends you should end up with a roof that will likely outlast you.

As far as interior ceiling and wall studs. Galvanized metal studs and ceiling supports are available. Without knowing more about the home design it is difficult to make specific recommendations.

roof construction

Thanks for the reply..Are you in nica? And do you have construction experience? I'm just a simple plumbing contractor, but have been around the trades for 30 years plus Nicalite has been my choice all along, but the steel frame??? Is this that available ?? And what about the labor force. Do you think the knowlege is there?

rich w

Construction in Nicaragua

can be (But does not have to be) challenging.

Yes I live in SJDS and we have build a few homes.

Nicalite is a good product as long as one stays within Nicalite's limits.

We don't install wood as a roof truss system any more. It is too heavy, exhibits too much movement due to humidity, is too expensive and steel is easier to install. There are many other factors that favor steel.

If you don't use construction methods that are exotic to Nicaragua you should be able to find good construction help.

Since you already have a design it may be a good time to determine if it makes sense for Nicaragua. I would do this before you even talk to a contractor. What makes sense somewhere else may become a nightmare in Nicaragua.

I have a suggestion

send our member "Nicareal" a Private email. I would in your situation and Nica Location.