I'm currently having a bungalow built in Thailand. We know little about building so when the builder recommends a measurement we don't really know if it's normal or not. I wonder could someone tell me if the following specifications sound about right.

1. The floor is raised 70cm. I've looked around and see that most modern bungalows are raised. I would like to know why? as two story houses seen to be built near on ground level.

 

2. The roof is 3.5m from the floor level. Seems terribly high to me.

 

3. Apparently the roof needs to be this height to allow for a 3m ceiling height. Any lower than this will lower the ceiling height.

 

Lastly. we are getting insulation that goes on the inside of the roof tiles. Can anyone give there thoughts on this type of insulation. does it keep the bungalow cool enough?

 

Never thought it would be so stressful watching a build. but I'm worried sick to be honest! 

 

Any info would be gratefully received...

 

 

All the measurements you quote sound like standard measurements, a lot would depend on the type of house, construction method and materials used.

 

Ceilings can be as low as around 2 m, 3m ceiling height is often standard in hot climates, gives space for ceiling fans etc, space for heat to rise into. Roof space is often a larger space in hot climates for practical reasons, insulation, ventilation etc. 0,5m roof space sounds like a flat roof or on the small side as no space to access. 

 

Again, insulation would depend on the type of roof, flat, pitched etc and the building materials.

 

Everything sounds like a normal house build of standard dimensions.

 

Can your builder not supply some plans so you can visualise, or even take you to a similar house so you can see the finished product.

Take a tape measure to a friends house, you will find the same measurements. 

Notwithstanding the knowledge of the members on TVF, this might be a good place to spend some time as it's a bit more specialist:

 

https://www.coolthaihouse.com/forum/

 

"Never thought it would be so stressful watching a build"

 

It sounds like you are not far into the building process yet and are still mostly planning. IME, it can get tough at times. Best of luck to you.

Sit back and relax, then enjoy your home when finished. Sounds like you have a builder that knows what they are doing. Happy living.

The floor is raised because it floods. 

 

The ceiling is high because it is hot, and heat rises. 

 

Insulation alone will not keep your home cooler than the ambient temperature, If well ventilated and insulated it will not keep your home cooler than the ambient temperature in the shade.  

 

You should be worried.