Multifamily construction projects are usually residential housing such as apartment complexes, townhomes, and other buildings where multiple families and occupants live side by side. They are large and typically feature many individual units stacked on top of each other, connected, and or arranged in tight-knit rows.
The construction of these buildings is different from regular homes in several ways and as such, requires unique materials and techniques to complete. In case you’re in charge of completing a multifamily construction project, let’s take a look at some of the best techniques and materials for you to use.
1828 - 44 N Front St is a 70-unit mixed-use new construction in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood with building materials, finishes, fixtures, and appliances supplied by Mega Supply Pro.
Sub-Grade Insulation
Multifamily buildings are prone to the same moisture infiltration that regular homes are, but the foundations are much larger which means there are more opportunities for cracks to develop or for the sub-base to shift and allow moisture to enter through basement areas. This can lead to mold, flooding, and other issues that you want to avoid.
For this reason, even if your foundation is going to be perfectly constructed, the best way to keep it airtight and protected against heat loss and water intrusion is by installing some below grade insulation. By insulating the exterior edges of your foundation with this material, you can effectively prevent damage from freeze-thaw cycles and save up to 20% on your monthly energy bills as well.
Special Roofing
If your buildings are going to have flat roofs or roofs with a minimal pitch, we suggest using torch down roofing to protect them. While it can be slightly more expensive than asphalt shingles, depending on the contractor, torch down roofing is more flexible, durable, thick, and less prone to condensation issues than asphalt roofing. It can be used as a standalone roofing material or as the substrate for additional roofing if you so choose.
Mega Supply Pro is supplying building materials and finishes for The Poplar's 400,000 sq.ft. building.
Soundproofing
Nobody wants to hear their neighbor’s TV or sounds from other families coming through their walls. That’s why you need to soundproof your units. There are a number of ways you can do this, from building extra-thick walls to using acoustic ceiling tiles, special noise-blocking windows, and more. Some other ways to build a soundproof apartment include carpeting instead of hardwood flooring, and thick, heavy-set doors.
Exterior Accessories
One technique that’s become a favorite among architects of multifamily buildings is the use of architectural grilles. These grilles are attached to the exterior of buildings, usually running the entire length, width, or both. They come in many different designs and colors to match the style of your building.
Though you may have to consult local housing authorities for permission to add them, as you would for issues like usps mailbox requirements and other ancillary features, these grilles are permissible in most areas. And, while they can add a ton of depth and detail to your building’s aesthetic, they have other benefits as well.
Architectural grilles can help protect against noise pollution, wind, and water from storms. They can also act as a bit of a visual barrier, allowing occupants to see out through them but restricting visibility into the buildings from the outside. This adds an extra level of privacy that many tenants are sure to enjoy.
The Duchess is a unique 293-unit residential building on New Jersey's Gold Coast. Mega Supply Pro supplied Italian mosaic marble flooring, ultra modern bathroom amenities, and other high end finishes for the project.
Multifamily Dwellings Require a Unique Approach
If you want to build the most effective, safe, and comfortable multifamily construction possible, it’s gonna take more than what you would find in your average, individual home.
These buildings need extra soundproofing and insulation, as well as superior roofing and materials that add a bit of extra flair and privacy. By using one or more of the techniques and materials we’ve listed here, you can maximize the overall value of your multifamily construction.
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Mega Supply Pro is a manufacturer-direct wholesaler of construction materials, appliances, fixtures, and finishes, acting as your one-stop-shop for direct procurement, storage, and timely delivery of building supplies right to your job site. We’ll review your specs, and present a comprehensive submittal package within your budget. Then, we’ll handle logistics for when and where the materials need to be delivered. Mega Supply Pro also has the capacity to store materials for clients if needed. That way, clients can purchase materials in advance without having to worry about storing them until they are ready to build.
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This is a guest post from Max Shafer – a contributor to the Innovative Building Materials blog. He is a content writer for the construction and home improvement industries with an interest in landscaping, outdoor remodeling, and interior design. Max is focused on educating homeowners, contractors, and architects on innovative materials and methods of construction that increase property value, improve sustainability, and create a warm and welcoming ambiance.