How to Get a 3D Printed House

3D printing technology has come a long way in recent years, and it has revolutionized many industries, including construction. 3D printing a house is now a reality, and it can offer many benefits, such as faster construction times, lower costs, and more customization options. 

In this article, we'll take a detailed look at how to get a 3D-printed house.

What is a 3D Printed House?

3D printed house surrounded by greenery. Image source: DW

A 3D-printed house is a building that has been constructed using a 3D printer. The 3D printer adds layer after layer of material, such as concrete or plastic, to build the walls, roof, and other components of the house. 

The process is similar to that of a traditional printer, but instead of printing on paper, it prints on a large scale to create a complete building.

Advantages of 3D Printed Houses

A man and woman walking around a 3D-printed house. Image source: ArchDaily

There are several advantages to building a 3D-printed house, including:

• Faster Construction Times

One of the biggest benefits of 3D printing a house is the speed of construction. A 3D printer can work around the clock, and the process is much faster than traditional construction methods. 

This means that a 3D-printed house can be built in a fraction of the time it would take to build a traditional home.

• Lower Costs

They can be built at a lower cost than traditional homes. This is because the 3D printing process is more efficient and reduces waste. 

In addition, the cost of materials for 3D printing is often lower than that of traditional construction materials.

• Customization Options

3D printing technology also offers more customization options than traditional construction methods. With 3D printing, you can create unique designs and shapes that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional construction techniques. 

This means that you can create a truly unique home tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

• Eco-Friendly

3D printing technology is also eco-friendly, as it generates less waste than traditional construction methods. This is because the 3D printing process is more precise and generates less waste than traditional construction techniques, which often require multiple cuts and adjustments.

Steps to Get a 3D Printed House

3D printed house. Image source: Reconteur

If you're interested in getting a 3D-printed house, here are the steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Choose a 3D Printing Company

The first step in getting a 3D-printed house is to choose a 3D printing company. There are several companies that specialize in 3D-printed houses, and you'll want to choose one that has the experience and a good reputation.

Step 2: Choose a Design

Once you have chosen a 3D printing company, the next step is to select a design. You can work with an architect to create a custom design or choose from a range of pre-existing designs offered by the 3D printing company.

Step 3: Obtain Permits and Approvals

Before you can begin construction, you'll need to obtain the necessary permits and approvals from local authorities. This can take several months, so it's important to start the process as early as possible.

Step 4: Choose a Building Site

Once you have obtained the necessary permits and approvals, the next step is to choose a building site. This is an important decision, as the site will affect the cost of construction and the final appearance of your 3D-printed house.

Step 5: Prepare the Building Site

Once you have chosen a building site, the next step is to prepare it for construction. This may include clearing the land, leveling it, and installing utilities such as water and electricity. The 3D printing company can provide guidance on what needs to be done and can assist with the preparation process.

Step 6: Begin Construction

With the building site prepared, it's time to begin construction. The 3D printing company will bring in the 3D printer and begin the construction process. They will oversee the entire process to ensure that everything is done correctly and that the final product meets your expectations.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Once the 3D printing process is complete, the final step is to add the finishing touches. This may include painting, installing windows and doors, and landscaping. The 3D printing company can assist with these final steps and ensure that your 3D-printed house is ready for you to move in.

How much does a 3D Printed house cost?

The cost of a 3D-printed house varies greatly depending on a number of factors, including the size of the house, the materials used, and the level of customization. On average, a 3D-printed house can cost anywhere from $100,000 to $500,000 or more.

However, it's important to keep in mind that the cost of a 3D-printed house can be significantly lower than the cost of a traditional home, especially when considering the time and labor savings. 

The 3D printing process is faster and more efficient compared to traditional construction methods, which can result in lower labor costs. Additionally, the 3D printer can be programmed to use only the necessary amount of materials, reducing waste and saving resources.

In terms of materials, the cost of 3D-printed houses can vary depending on the type of material used. For example, a 3D-printed house made of concrete may cost more than one made of plastic, but it will also be stronger and more durable. 

The type of material used will also depend on the location and local regulations, as some countries may have stricter building codes and standards.

Another factor that can impact the cost of a 3D-printed house is the level of customization. If you want to add unique features or designs to your home, such as intricate walls or custom interiors, the cost of the project may increase.

It's also worth noting that the cost of a 3D-printed house may vary depending on the location and local regulations. Some countries may have higher regulations and construction standards, which can impact the cost of the project.

Revolutionizing the Construction Industry: The Rise of 3D Printed Houses

3D printing offers endless possibilities for creative and unique architecture, but it also presents a sustainable solution for housing needs. The cost-effectiveness of 3D-printed houses opens up opportunities for affordable housing solutions worldwide. By streamlining the building process and reducing labor costs, this technology has the potential to address global housing crises and provide shelter for those in need.

Getting a 3D-printed house can offer many benefits, such as faster construction times, lower costs, and more customization options. By following these steps and working with a reputable 3D printing company, you can make your dream of a unique and eco-friendly home a reality.

Best 3D Printing Software

There are many programs avilable that you can use to prepare designs for 3D printing and a good example is SelfCAD. SelfCAD is one of the easiest 3D design programs available that you can get started with ease. It comes with 3D modeling tools for creating 3D models from scratch. There are also other modification tools that you can use to modify imported files based on your needs. The video below shows how to modify STL files in SelfCAD.

[Embed this video: https://youtu.be/Xm_joZDE_74?si=TKyRBVd_pkAuODBB ]

In addition to coming with many 3D modeling tools, the software also comes with an in-built online slicer that you can use to slice your designs and generate the Gcode to send to your 3D printer. The video below shows how to slice your 3D models in SelfCAD.

[Embed this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpf38aMk8d8&t=70s ]