Mar 27 2010
The I RAD house, with its unique interlocking I WOOD system is a construction method that revolutionizes designs for emergency and transitional shelters - a special solution for the current housing crisis in Haiti.
I RAD House
- easy-to-assemble flat pack building kits in varying sizes
- generates a better quality shelter at a significantly lower cost than currently deployed shelters in Haiti
- has higher strength-to-weight ratio
- environmentally friendly sourced material
- higher yield than traditional lumber by using smaller diameter trees
- provides secure weather-proof homes suitable for Haiti's rainy season
Each I RAD kit comes complete with all components, fixings, tools and instructions and takes
a team of 3 to 4 people 4 hours to assemble. The team does not need previous construction
experience so affected families in Haiti can actually take part in the rebuilding of their
homes and their lives. Should the shelter need to be moved later, it can be easily taken apart and put together again or the components used in a new larger unit.
A 16 x 8 foot version of these shelters will be displayed on March 31 on the second floor of
the Millennium UN Plaza Hotel on 44th Street in New York City in the Diplomat Ballroom from 7 am to 8 pm. The UN Haiti Donor's conference will take place on the same day.
These storm-proof shelters are treated with BluWood technology, are anti-mold, anti-termite and fire-resistant and can be supplied quickly in large volumes.
When assembled, the 16ft (4.8m) by 8ft (2.4 m) example is a fully weatherized shell providing a strong and secure shelter and sleeping space for up to 10 people. Because of the unique interlocking lumber and panel system, the house can be made larger or smaller as needed and larger sized units are also available.
The basic I RAD house can be easily fitted with electricity and water and waste utilities can also be incorporated.
These homes, which are approved by Haitian representatives in the US as culturally suitable to the Haiti people and climate can, once constructed, be simply repaired, customized or adapted.
Source: http://www.icologygroup.com