FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions.
Inside your Ourhaus Starter Box arethe steel framing components for the structure, galvanised gussets for connecting to timber post foundations, galvanised purlins for the walls and roof sheeting. Plus low-E double-glazing with an aluminium window frame, the built-in staircase, rain water goods and the Ourhaus window flashing system. The starter box itself is pre-waterproofed with first fix plumbing.
We give you a complete specification of all items required to completely build a Haus. For example – in 2020 to build a watertight Langhaus, will cost about R600 000 excluding VAT, labour and delivery. This obviously varies and is a rough guide for budgeting.
Generally the structure is made of precision-cut machined, galvanised steel. We are working on timber-framed options.
In South Africa there is often a knee-jerk reaction to building in anything but brick. These days however, the world is shifting to a more sustainable and creative approach to building materials. Over 90% of houses in the USA are built out of timber. Ourhaus embraces this approach and our building materials are a step in the right direction.
Our efficiencies are fed into an entire system to create elegant design solutions. Changing a few things here and there can create knock-on inefficiencies that we cannot justify. However, to add your own personality, you can make changes to the cladding, to the interiors and the colour of the finishes.
We have provided easy access to the loft space so that you can use it as storage. However, it does not meet the National Building Regulations head-height requirements to be designated as a bedroom.
Typically, it takes 15 working days from receipt of your deposit to assemble your Ourhaus Starter Box and then two days to deliver within South Africa.
It depends which Haus and who is building it. An example – using two carpenters and two apprentices we can build the Langhaus in 1 month from start to finish. Other contractors may take a bit longer.
Galvanised steel works at the coast, but has a limited lifespan. We are working on other options to improve longevity.
Yes, certainly! An Ourhaus Starter Box fits inside a shipping container so they are easily transported around the world. Our engineer and architect certifications will require local assistance in order to be validated. You will have to arrange for transport from the port to your site. We can fit 2 starter boxes in a 20-foot container and 4 in a 40-foot container.
When placing your order, make sure that you order our solar screen package as an added extra. This does add to the cost but it is worth the expense when faced with a hot setting sun in the summer.
There are some simple items such as timber components and roof sheeting that are available at most building material suppliers or hardware stores around the world. This makes shipping them inefficient and also bad for our carbon footprint.
We have designed our Hauses with clever places to install rainwater tanks, solar PV panels, batteries and inverters. There is even a place for a braai / barbeque – for those who want to dine in style.
Yes and no. If the Haus has been delivered to your site but is unopened, you may return it – but you will lose the deposit that you paid. If the Haus has been unpacked, we will not accept any returns as this will be considered as a building under construction.
We are currently partnering with establishments around South Africa where you can rent one of our Hauses so that you can try before you buy.
It is a play on Bauhaus, a German school of architecture and design started over 100 years ago. Its aim was to make functional and excellent design more accessible to everyone.
By that do you mean are they energy efficient and with limited impact on the environment? Yes! Our key positives are that we do not use any cement in our starter box and haus construction (cement-based products account for the biggest greenhouse gas emissions in the construction industry). Our steel frame is efficient in providing strength and durability at a limited carbon cost. Moreover, the excellent insulation in the walls and glazing as well as the recommended fit-out with timber panelling adds immensely to a positive sustainability rating.