HOME BUILDING PROCESS

Esperanza usually builds three models of homes. The first is an 11’x26’ structure, the second is an 11’x22’ structure and the third is a combination of the first and second. The homes are designed to be able to add a second floor at a later date, and every home is built with a concrete foundation and concrete slab floor. Esperanza has designed and patented an interlocking concrete block construction system that was designed to be built by groups with little or no construction experience. It includes a concrete roof which will become the floor of the second story if added later.

The homes are designed to meet safety, structural, earthquake, and government codes. Installation of doors and windows plus stucco finish and painting are the responsibility of the homeowners. An Esperanza house is a solid, long lasting structure that is fire resistant and stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Concrete block construction is more desirable than wood in the Tijuana communities.

Every step of an Esperanza home is designed and led by experienced technicians.

Our construction methods attempt to maximize the abilities of the groups. There are ways that phases of the project could be completed faster and easier using more expensive equipment, but the result would be less involvement by the group members. We want every participant in every group involved in the building process. We believe the result will be a greater sense of accomplishment, a stronger team mentality and a better opportunity to build relationships with the family and community.

We want groups to know that this project is about more than just building houses--building bridges between people and cultures. It is very important for volunteers to get to know the family, experience the culture and the communities. Occasionally our building projects may include a community center, school, rehabilitation center or other needs determined and planned for by the communities where we work.