This Family Gets One Of The First 3D Printed Homes In The United States, Called Cost-Effective And Disaster Resistant

3D printed house inauguration for April. (Source: Habitat for Humanity)

JAKARTA - April Stringfield and her 13-year-old son have received their 3D-printed house keys, just days before Christmas. It was Habitat for Humanity's first 3D project in the United States (US).

April has dreamed of becoming a homeowner for years. This single mother who lives in Williamsburg has to work in three places, but it's not enough for her to buy her own house.

He enlisted the help of Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg, non-profit organizations such as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to fulfill his dream of owning a home.

The construction of every house built by this NGO is a mutual cooperation effort. The community, volunteers, and aspiring homeowners come together to build and renovate affordable homes that sell for no profit on interest-free mortgages.

In this case, April had worked 300 hours on behalf of Habitat before she was eligible to own her own home.

This time, the work was reduced due to the innovative technology involved. The NGO is working with 3D printing company Alquist. Printing the exterior and interior walls of a 111 m2 (1,200 sq ft) home only takes 12 hours.

3D printed house for April. (Source: Habitat for Humanity)

This measure reduces the standard construction time by at least four weeks. The new house has three bedrooms and two bathrooms and is built of concrete, the NGO said.

Using concrete for walls instead of wood means cost savings. In the US, timber prices have risen 50 percent since the pandemic began. Spending next April will also be more cost-effective, as concrete retains temperature more effectively than wood, saving on heating and cooling costs.

In addition, the walls are more resistant to damage from hurricanes and hurricanes. Later, this house will be equipped with solar panels for cost savings after the whole family moves.

"My son and I are very grateful. I've always wanted to be the owner of the house. It's like a dream come true," April said, citing Euronews December 29.

The new home is equipped with its own 3D printer, so April can print the knobs, light switch covers and other replaceable parts if needed.

To note, Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg raised funds for the home with the help of sponsors, a community crowdfunding campaign and a charity golf tournament.

Apart from the home for April, the only other 3D-printed home is currently under construction in Tempe, Arizona.