The roof trusses are the only component delivered already built. Fire-resistant boards are placed against them to prevent a fire from spreading.
Skebo is undertaking new construction projects in peripheral areas of Skellefteå municipality, with the majority focused on Bureå, which will have five apartment blocks. Throughout the spring, these structures have rapidly materialized in a region neighboring the health center.
The construction methodology embraces traditional techniques, involving loose timber, instead of prefab modules. The entirety of the assembly is manually nailed together on-site, barring the roof trusses that are factory-prepared and shipped ready to install. In line with multi-century-old tradition, the facade will be meticulously assembled with loose planks.
– Rather than sourcing modular units from external suppliers, we made a conscious decision to employ our local carpenters. This approach also allowed us to support the local economy by purchasing locally sourced materials, says Mattias Jakobsson, CEO of the construction company, MVB.
The three projects currently being undertaken by Skebo in these locations utilize vastly different techniques. In Byske, the houses are made of concrete with on-site casting, in Burträsk using part concrete, and in Bureå using on-site carpentry.
– There wasn't a conscious strategy behind it. In the tendering process, the companies were allowed to suggest their preferred construction methods. That's why we ended up with these different solutions, says Alexandra Miller, project manager at Skebo.
Alexandra Miller, Skebo, says that the planned pleasant outdoor environment will be shared with the existing houses in the area.
Due to a severe shortage of housing, Skebo's mandate was to build as quickly as possible. However, due to the soft ground, at least one of the blocks will be delayed.
– When we started digging, we discovered that the ground was softer than initially estimated, says Alexandra.
As a result, large loads of gravel have been used to firm up the ground where one of the blocks will be. This overburden needs to stay in place for five months, causing a delay for that house, which hasn't even begun construction yet.
Groundworks started in December and by March, the foundations began to be laid. These are concrete slabs directly on solid ground.
Fifteen carpenters and five other tradesmen are currently working on site, and the first topping-out celebration, complete with a lovely tea party, has been held.
– The team thought there should be a party for each house, says Andrew with a smile.