Constructing a 5-marla house in Pakistan is a dream for many, but it can feel overwhelming if you don’t have the right information. The good news? With proper planning, budgeting, and a little guidance, you can transform this dream into reality. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything—from designing your house layout to selecting materials and estimating costs. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, affordable home or a luxurious one, we’ll ensure your 5-marla house is built with quality, style, and value in mind.
Step 1: Designing Your Layout
When you’re working with a 5-marla plot (which is around 1,125 square feet), it’s crucial to make the most out of the space available. A well-thought-out layout not only ensures that the house is functional but also maximizes space, making your home feel bigger and more comfortable.
A practical layout for your 5-marla house might look like this:
- Ground Floor: A spacious lounge, one or two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a bathroom.
- First Floor: More bedrooms, a family lounge, and an additional bathroom.
- Additional Features: An overhead water tank on the roof and an underground water tank in the car porch for efficient water storage.
Pro Tip: For a more spacious feel, go for open floor designs. This allows natural light to flow better and helps create an illusion of more room, especially important in smaller homes like a 5-marla house.
Step 2: Material Costs for Construction
Building a solid foundation begins with choosing the right materials. The cost of materials can vary depending on where you buy them, but here’s a rough breakdown to help you plan.
Cement
Cement is one of the key components of construction. In 2024, cement costs around PKR 1,450–1,480 per 50kg bag. For a 5-marla house, you’ll need approximately 500 bags, which will cost you between PKR 725,000 and 740,000.
Steel (Sarya)
Steel is essential for reinforcement. Grade 60 steel costs around PKR 260,000–270,000 per ton. You’ll need about 3 tons, which will come to PKR 780,000–810,000.
Bricks
When it comes to bricks, high-quality first-class bricks cost PKR 18–22 each. For a 5-marla house, you’ll need around 40,000 bricks, which will set you back approximately PKR 720,000–880,000.
Sand and Crush (Gravel)
- Sand: Around 3,052 cubic feet of sand will be required. At an average price of PKR 65 per cubic foot for Chenab sand, the cost will be approximately PKR 198,380.
- Crush (Gravel): Around 600 cubic feet of Sargodha crush will be needed. With an average price of PKR 130 per cubic foot, the cost will be approximately PKR 78,000.
Total Cost for Sand and Crush: PKR 276,380.
Pro Tip: Buying materials in bulk can save you a significant amount of money. Try to connect directly with suppliers or manufacturers for discounts.
Step 3: Flooring and Finishing
The finishing touches are what will make your house feel like home. Let’s talk about some key elements:
Tiles and Flooring
For good-quality tiles, you’ll pay around PKR 1,500–3,500 per square meter. Including both the ground and first floors, the total cost for flooring will be PKR 850,000–1,050,000.
Paint
A fresh coat of paint can completely transform the look of your house. Interior and exterior painting will cost between PKR 250,000–300,000 depending on the brand and finish you choose.
Sanitary Fixtures
High-quality bathroom fixtures like washbasins, showers, and commodes are essential for comfort. Expect to spend around PKR 200,000–300,000 for these items.
Pro Tip: Light, neutral-colored tiles and paints create a brighter, more open atmosphere and are a smart investment for resale value.
Step 4: Plumbing and Electrical Work
Plumbing
Plumbing is crucial for water supply and drainage systems. The estimated cost for plumbing work is between PKR 220,000–260,000.
Electrical Work
For electrical wiring, switches, and installations, you’ll need to budget around PKR 270,000–320,000. Be sure to opt for durable wiring and materials to avoid future problems.
Pro Tip: Go for energy-efficient fixtures, which can help reduce electricity costs in the long term.
Step 5: Doors, Windows, Woodwork, and Kitchen Essentials
Woodwork
Woodwork is an important part of any home. Whether it’s doors, windows, or wardrobes, the wood you choose significantly impacts both the cost and overall aesthetic of the house.
- Doors and Cabinets: If you opt for Kail or Partal wood for doors and cabinets, expect to spend PKR 350,000–400,000. For premium finishes like Mahogany or Teak, the cost can rise to PKR 450,000–550,000.
- Windows: Aluminum or uPVC windows are cost-effective and durable. Depending on the size and design, the total cost for windows will range from PKR 150,000–200,000.
Pro Tip: Choosing high-quality wood can add a touch of elegance to your home, and investing in durable windows will save you on energy costs in the long run.
Kitchen Essentials
The kitchen is one of the most important parts of a home. Here’s a breakdown of the essential kitchen items:
- Kitchen Cabinets: High-quality kitchen cabinets can cost between PKR 250,000–350,000 depending on the material (MDF, veneer, or solid wood).
- Kitchen Sink: A good-quality kitchen sink, whether stainless steel or granite, will cost you around PKR 15,000–35,000.
- Kitchen Stove: The price of a stove can range from PKR 10,000–30,000, depending on the brand and model (built-in or standalone).
- Countertops: Marble or granite countertops will cost between PKR 100,000–200,000 depending on the material and kitchen size.
Pro Tip: Modular kitchen designs help in making the most out of smaller spaces, while also enhancing the kitchen’s aesthetic. Custom-made kitchen units are more expensive but offer great personalization.
Step 6: Water Tanks
Water storage is essential in Pakistan, especially during summer months. Here’s the estimated cost:
- Overhead Water Tank: Concrete tanks on the roof cost between PKR 70,000–90,000.
- Underground Water Tank: The underground tank located in the car porch area costs around PKR 150,000–200,000.
Pro Tip: Properly placing your water tanks (e.g., underground) not only saves space but also helps keep the water cooler and prevents algae growth.
Step 7: Additional Features
Now, let’s look at some additional features to make your house even more stylish and secure:
- Main Gate: A durable 16 or 18-gauge main gate will cost around PKR 120,000.
- Grills: Steel grills for windows and gates are essential for safety, and the cost is about PKR 150,000.
- Door Frames (Chougat Steel): Steel door frames (14 gauge, 16 gauge) are priced around PKR 112,000 for a 5-marla house.
- Staircase: A well-constructed staircase with marble finishing can cost around PKR 115,000.
Pro Tip: When selecting these additional features, ensure they match the overall aesthetic and durability requirements of your home. Custom designs can add a personal touch to your house.
Step 8: Labor Costs
Labor costs for constructing a 5-marla house can vary depending on the location and contractor you choose. On average, labor costs will be between PKR 1,100,000–1,300,000.
Pro Tip: Always hire experienced, trusted laborers and ensure that the terms of payment and timelines are clearly laid out in your contract.
Final Estimated Costs
- Grey Structure: The cost for the grey structure will range from PKR 5.7 million to 6.8 million, depending on material prices and design complexity.
- Complete Turnkey Construction (Including Finishing): A fully finished 5-marla house will cost approximately PKR 8.2 million to 9.5 million.
Conclusion
Building your dream 5-marla house in Pakistan is more achievable than you think. With careful planning, selecting the right materials, and investing in quality labor, your home can be modern, durable, and stylish—all while staying within budget. By following this guide and keeping these pro tips in mind, you’ll ensure that your 5-marla house not only meets your needs but also provides great value in the long run.
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