PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Reconditioned pallet racking (available in San Salvador & San Antonio) is engineered and rated for load capacity, designed for flexibility and modular efficiency. Reconditioned “TEARDROP” racks are repurposed here for habitation. The advantages are, a very light & fast structural system that can receive a roof prior to walls and floors, can be moved and removed by hand, adapts to terrain variation (in 2" increments) and can be used as a falsework frame for masonry (available materials) while providing working shelter. From a strategic perspective many worker (volunteers) can be engaged at the same time. Permanent footings and floors, which typically take more time can be retrofitted on their own time table, the 3 point-load corners allow any one footing to be added or repaired while resting on the other 2. Gravity "teardrop" fittings can be welded for rigidity, initially offering unlimited fastening and anchoring points.
By definition, Temporary housing must be able to be removed while human settlement patterns become fixed ("The problem with temporary housing is that it becomes permanent"). As resettlement begins and civil infrastructure develops disruption to the emerging social landscape is unavoidable. Evolving ones shelter to adapt to current demands, political and/or physical, is rendered tolerable even (strategically) preferable.
It can be carried to the site and set in place temporarily, permanently or removed with little waste of time or materials. With virtually unlimited anchoring and tie-down points. By using this light weight frame construction a team can begin at the top and work down.
A flat concrete roof perimeter is recommended for shade, mass & water tank (tenaco). The basic shell allows infrastructure to commence. Traditional facades may be added to the basic structure (saultillo tile may be added over chain-link in a fish-scale pattern).
The essential components require very few people or training to be assembled. Basic needs are met as swiftly as possible allowing meaningful elements to be derived exclusively from the site and prevailing sensibility. Local craft & tradespeople can take possession sooner and produce the components required to complete on site or remotely. Thanks for listening ,J.S.H.
