​When money is saved, there is the possibility of more complex things being built!
Hiring someone that has skills and knowledge like a mason might be essential!
When money is short, the only way to make improvements is incrementally!
$
$
type 1
Incrementally improving the dwelling usually happens by an order of priority and money.
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Simple and easy fixes are the first ones to happen. They tend to improve the quality of life of the inhabitants in some way.
1
plumbing fixtures
no finishes
no waterproofing on walls and floor
no privacy
2
+ patching walls
+ floor ceramic tiles
no privacy
no waterproofing on walls
3
+ half walls ceramic tiles
no privacy
4
+whole tiled walls
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+ adding privacy
quick fix!
incremental improvements
$$
based
type 2
Maintenance related repairs
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Replacing/repairing roofing elements prior to the rainy season starts.
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Roofing tiles can be recycled or new, depending on the money available
$
Painting walls after raining season for health (get rid of mold), or aesthetics purposes.
exterior wall painting
new openings with reused elements
$
type 3
division of existing spaces to accommodate immediate needs
Spaces to accommodate new income source ( adding business or tenancy)
live
work / tenancy
$
$
type 4
Prefab Elements
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They are cheaper and easier to install. They are usually found as awnings to provide shade and protection against rainfall, and external staircases that are an essential element when there is the necessity of separating the two levels, in case of tenancy, for example.
prefab awnings
prefab staircases
$$
balconies
recessed terraces
type 5
Terraces and Balconies
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These spaces are created to replace the lack of a backyard (since the whole lot is built-up) where people can hang clothes to dry.
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They are also an important socializing semi-private shaded space used by dwellers and neighbors.
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whole shabang!
$$$
new levels or rooms added
This process tends to be more complex and expensive.
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There is usually a person who is an expert involved, like a hired mason, if money is not an issue.
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A significant amount of money for materials, hired helped and other expenses are required.
1st priority is the main structure
reused roof
structure
and tiles
roof tiles
roof wooden structure
exterior brick walls
cast-in-place concrete top
prefab slab
structural columns and walls
last priority are finishes
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if the case, interior spaces comes first​
1st: patching interior walls
2nd: facade finishes
last: sides