Building A Two-Bedroom Flat: Block Count And Cost

The number of blocks required to build a 2-bedroom flat varies depending on factors such as the size of the flat, local building codes, and the design of the structure. Builders estimate the number of blocks needed based on the total wall area to be constructed. A standard 2-bedroom flat with dimensions of approximately 10 meters by 10 meters (assuming a single-story structure with standard wall height) might require anywhere from several hundred to over a thousand concrete blocks. This estimate can change depending on whether the building is single or multi-story, the thickness of the walls, and other architectural details.

In Nigeria, the most common types of flats are 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom. The amount of blocks required for a 2-bedroom flat is not fixed and depends on whether the design is simplistic or complex. A medium-sized 2-bedroom flat with a small living room, two medium-sized bedrooms with small toilets, a small kitchen, and a small toilet and bathroom would require about 2,200 blocks. This estimate does not include blocks needed for soakaway and fencing.

The cost of blocks varies, but on average, a block costs N200. Therefore, an individual planning to build a similar medium-sized 2-bedroom flat should budget around N440,000 for blocks.

How many blocks are needed for a 2-bedroom flat?

The number of blocks needed for a 2-bedroom flat varies based on several factors, including the size of the flat, local building codes, and the design of the structure. Builders typically estimate the number of blocks required based on the total wall area to be constructed.

For a standard 2-bedroom flat with dimensions of approximately 10 meters by 10 meters (assuming a single-story structure with a standard wall height), you can expect to need anywhere from several hundred to over a thousand concrete blocks. This estimate can change depending on whether the building is single or multi-story, the thickness of the walls, and other architectural details.

A more complex 2-bedroom flat will generally require a higher number of blocks compared to a simpler design. Additionally, the cost of blocks can vary by location, but on average, a block costs around N200 in most places.

When planning to build a 2-bedroom flat, it is essential to consider not only the number of blocks needed but also other important construction materials such as cement, rods, sand, and planks. Producing your own blocks can help save money and ensure the use of good-quality blocks.

To give a more precise estimate, it would be helpful to have specific details about the desired 2-bedroom flat, such as its size, location, and any unique design features.

How much does it cost to build a 2-bedroom flat?

The cost of building a 2-bedroom flat in Nigeria depends on a number of factors, including the foundation type, the price of building materials and labour, the house design, the type of roof, and internal finishing, among others. For example, the same flat might cost ₦20 million in Lagos and ₦15 million in Ibadan.

One builder provided a detailed breakdown of the costs of building a 2-bedroom flat, including:

• 2,000 6" blocks @₦130 = ₦260,000
• 110 bags of cement @₦1800 = ₦198,000
• Granite 15 tons = ₦80,000
• Sand for setting = ₦35,000
• Sand for rendering = ₦30,000
• Laterite 7 trucks = ₦140,000
• Rod 20 lgn = ₦30,000
• Plank 25 lgn = ₦20,000
• Roofing & labour = ₦400,000
• Window sliding & labour = ₦85,0000
• P VC & labour = ₦85,000
• Doors & labour = ₦160,000
• Tiles all & labour = ₦150,000
• Sanitary & labour = ₦85,000
• Wiring & labour = ₦150,000
• Labour on mason, capen, iron bending, labourer = ₦370,000
• Burglary = ₦60,000
• Soakaway = ₦100,000

The total cost of building materials and labour for this 2-bedroom flat is ₦2,078,000.

Another builder provided a breakdown of the costs of building a 2-bedroom bungalow with basic finishes, including:

• Substructure/Foundation = ₦250,000
• Superstructure/Block Work = ₦450,000
• Roofing Sheet/Woodwork = ₦400,000
• M&E including Electrical Wiring = ₦160,000
• Plastering = ₦150,000
• Ceiling = ₦80,000
• Toilets/Bath fittings = ₦40,000
• Wall/Floor Tiles = ₦160,000
• Window/Burglar Proof = ₦145,000
• Doors = ₦140,000

The total cost of building a 2-bedroom bungalow with basic finishes is ₦1,825,000.

Therefore, the cost of building a 2-bedroom flat in Nigeria can range from ₦1,825,000 to ₦2,078,000, depending on various factors.

What are the other important items needed to build a 2-bedroom flat?

Building a 2-bedroom flat requires more than just blocks. Here are some other important items you will need:

Cement, Rods, Sand, and Planks

Cement is essential for binding the blocks together, while rods provide structural support. Sand is necessary for making concrete, which is used in construction, and planks are needed for scaffolding and temporary structures.

Appliances

Major appliances such as a refrigerator, freezer, washing machine, and dishwasher are essential. A stove and oven are usually included, but it's important to confirm with the landlord or agent. Don't forget to check the condition of these appliances upon move-in and clarify who is responsible for any repairs.

Storage Solutions

Storage space is crucial, especially in small flats. Look for flats with walk-in closets or built-in cupboards. If storage is limited, consider adding freestanding closets, tension rods in kitchen cupboards, shoe racks, chests of drawers, or furniture with built-in storage like storage ottomans and coffee tables.

Internet Access

Reliable internet access is vital, especially for those working from home or needing to stay connected with family and friends. Confirm with the landlord or agent if internet access is included in the rent or if you need to set up your own connection.

Quality Finishes and Maintenance

When viewing a flat, pay attention to details like pest infestation, water damage, mould, and the condition of windows, taps, heating/cooling systems, and electrical and gas safety. Ensure that locks and locking mechanisms on doors and windows are in good working order.

How many blocks are needed for a 3-bedroom flat?

The number of blocks needed for a 3-bedroom flat depends on several factors, including the size of the flat, local building codes, the design of the structure, and the type of block used.

To estimate the number of blocks required, you need to have a plan and dimensions of the building. The simplest approach is to estimate the number of blocks required in a square meter of the wall.

For instance, let's consider the standard dimensions of a 6-inch block in Nigeria, which are 450mm in length and 225mm in width. This gives a planar area of 0.10125 square meters per block. Thus, one square meter of a wall will require approximately 10 blocks (1/0.10125 = 9.876, rounded up).

Now, if we consider a typical 3-bedroom flat with a floor plan of 450 square meters, we can estimate the number of blocks needed for different phases of construction.

Phase 1: Foundation to DPC (Damp Proof or Over-site Concrete)

In this phase, we consider the total length of the walls at the foundation level and the height of the walls at the substructure level. For our example building, the foundation layout has a total wall length of approximately 100.256 meters. The height of the walls from the foundation to DPC is 900mm or 0.9 meters.

Therefore, the total area of the wall in this phase is 90.2304 square meters (100.256m x 0.9m). Using our estimate of 10 blocks per square meter, we would need approximately 903 blocks (90.2304 x 10) for this phase, excluding any damages or waste.

Phase 2: DPC to Lintel Level

In this phase, we take into account openings such as doors and windows. By subtracting the areas of these openings from the total wall area, we can estimate the number of blocks needed.

For our example building, the total length of the walls excluding openings is 87.42 meters, and the height of the walls is 2100mm or 2.1 meters. The total area of doors is 19.74 square meters, and the total area of windows is 18.72 square meters.

Thus, the net area of walls is 145.122 square meters (183.582 m2 – 19.74 m2 – 18.72 m2). This means we would need approximately 1452 blocks (145.122 x 10) for this phase, excluding waste.

Phase 3: Lintel Level to Overhead Level

In this phase, we assume that the building will be chained at the lintel level, which helps to reinforce the structure and reduce cracking. We consider the length of the walls without openings, which is 100.256 meters, and the height of the walls from the lintel to the roof is 675mm or 0.675 meters.

Therefore, the total area of walls in this phase is 67.6728 square meters (100.256m x 0.675m). This translates to approximately 677 blocks (67.6728 x 10) being required, excluding waste.

Total Blocks Required

To complete the construction of our example 3-bedroom flat, we would need blocks for all three phases:

903 blocks for Phase 1

1452 blocks for Phase 2

677 blocks for Phase 3

This gives us a total of 3032 blocks (903 + 1452 + 677) for the entire project, excluding wastage.

To account for wastage, it is recommended to increase the total by 10% to 20%. So, the total number of blocks to be moulded or purchased would be between 3335 blocks (3032 x 1.1) and 3638 blocks (3032 x 1.2).

It is important to note that these estimates are based on specific dimensions and construction practices in Nigeria, and the actual number of blocks required may vary depending on local factors and the specific design of the 3-bedroom flat.

Additionally, the type of block chosen will impact the total quantity needed, with 5-inch and 6-inch blocks being the most common and economical choices for small projects.

How many blocks are needed for a 4-bedroom flat?

The number of blocks needed for a 4-bedroom flat will vary depending on several factors, including the size of the flat, local building codes, and the design of the structure. Builders will usually estimate the number of blocks needed based on the total wall area to be constructed.

To give a rough idea, a 4-bedroom bungalow with standard room sizes of 16 x 12, a master bedroom of 15 x 13, and a living room of 22 x 20 will require approximately 4,000 blocks. This estimate assumes a standard plot of land measuring 60 ft x 120 ft (or 18.288 m x 36.576 m).

The number of blocks needed can also be calculated using a simple formula: B = P/460 x R, where B represents the quantity of blocks, P is the perimeter of the walls in mm, and R is the number of rows, typically 12.

Additionally, the size of the block is a factor in determining how many blocks are required. For example, a standard block in Nigeria measures 450mm x 225mm, with a planar area of 0.10125 m2. This means that one square meter of a wall will contain approximately 10 blocks.

It's important to note that these estimates may not include wastage, and it's common to add a buffer of 10-20% to the total number of blocks needed to account for any damage or waste during construction.

For an accurate estimate, it is recommended to consult a builder or architect who can take into account all the specific details of your project.

Frequently asked questions