Building a home involves several stages, and one of the most crucial phases is the construction of the grey structure. The grey structure encompasses the primary framework of the building, including the foundation, walls, columns, beams, and roof, while excluding the final finishes like paint, flooring, and electrical fixtures.
In Lahore, the cost of constructing a grey structure depends on various factors such as material quality, labor rates, and site conditions.
This guide offers an in-depth look at the 2025 costs associated with grey structure construction, including the cost of materials, labor, and other considerations to keep in mind during the planning phase.
What is a Grey Structure in Building Construction?
A “grey structure” is the basic framework of a building, which includes all the essential parts like the foundation, walls, roof, columns, beams, and other load-bearing components. It doesn’t include the final touches like plaster, paint, tiles, or flooring. This stage focuses on making sure the building is safe and strong, providing the structure before the finishing touches are added.
The construction process has two main stages: the grey structure and the finishing stage. The grey structure ensures that the building is solid, and once it’s complete, the finishing work begins to make the building look its best.
What is Included in a Grey Structure Quote?
A grey structure quote is an estimate from the contractor that outlines the cost of building the main framework of the building. This includes the foundation, load-bearing walls, roof, beams, and columns – basically all the key parts that make the building structurally sound. The quote will not cover things like paint, flooring, or interior decoration. It’s focused only on the cost of the essential structure needed to make the building safe before finishing work begins. This quote helps you understand the basic costs of building the core structure of the building.
Material Costs for Grey Structure Construction in Lahore (2025)
Materials form a significant part of the construction cost. Below are the essential materials used for building a grey structure and their updated average prices in Lahore for 2025:
Bricks
For a 10 Marla house, approximately 88,000 bricks are required.
- Cost per brick: PKR 21
- Total brick cost: PKR 1,848,000
Cement
An estimated 1,081 bags of cement are needed for this phase.
- Cost per bag: PKR 1,460
- Total cement cost: PKR 1,578,260
Steel
Steel reinforcement is crucial for the structure’s strength. Typically, 7.4 tons (7,400 kg) of steel are required.
- Cost per kg: PKR 240
- Total steel cost: PKR 1,776,000
Sand
Approximately 4,760 cubic feet of sand are needed.
- Cost per cubic foot: PKR 66
- Total sand cost: PKR 314,160
Crush (Gravel)
The required quantity of crush is about 3,138 cubic feet.
- Cost per cubic foot: PKR 160
- Total crush cost: PKR 502,080
Labor Costs for Grey Structure Construction
Labor charges play a significant role in determining the overall construction costs. For a 10 Marla grey structure, the following labor costs are generally applicable:
Main Contractor
The contractor oversees the project and ensures that everything is done according to the specifications. The cost for a contractor is generally around PKR 450 per square foot. For a 2,500 sq. ft. grey structure, the total cost would be approximately PKR 1,125,000.
Electricians and Plumbers
These workers are essential for laying the necessary wiring and piping during the grey structure phase. Labor costs for electricians and plumbers are typically PKR 115 per square foot. For the same 2,500 sq. ft. area, this would amount to PKR 575,000.
Steel Fixers
Steel fixers are responsible for setting up steel reinforcement within the columns, beams, and other parts of the structure. Steel fixing labor costs are approximately PKR 10,000 per ton, and for 7.4 tons, the total cost would be PKR 74,000.
Total Estimated Costs for Grey Structure Construction
Summing up the costs for materials and labor, here is an overview of the expected expenses for constructing the grey structure of a 10 Marla house:
- Material Costs: PKR 5,038,046
- Labor Costs: PKR 1,774,000
- Total Estimated Cost: PKR 6.8 Million to 7.5 Million
Other Costs to Consider in Grey Structure Construction
While the primary focus is on material and labor costs, several additional factors can affect the overall budget:
Site Preparation and Land Levelling
Before construction begins, the land must be cleared and leveled. The cost for site preparation can range from PKR 150,000 to PKR 200,000, depending on the land’s condition.
Foundation Work
The foundation is one of the most crucial aspects of the grey structure. Depending on soil conditions and the depth required, foundation work can add PKR 400,000 to PKR 600,000 to the total cost.
Construction Permits and Approvals
Obtaining necessary approvals from local authorities is essential. According to Lahore Development Authority (LDA) permitting fees vary, but typically, they range from PKR 100,000 to PKR 200,000.
Contingencies
Unexpected costs often arise during construction. To cover any surprises, it’s recommended to set aside an additional 5-10% of the total budget as a contingency fund.
Key Factors Affecting the Cost of Grey Structure Construction
Several factors can influence the overall cost of building a grey structure, including:
- Quality of Materials: Premium materials will drive up the cost.
- Labor Efficiency: Skilled workers may cost more but complete tasks quicker, potentially saving money in the long run.
- Complexity of Design: More intricate designs or customizations will increase costs.
- Location of the Site: Sites that require special handling or equipment (e.g., rocky or uneven land) may incur higher costs.
Building a grey structure in Lahore in 2025 involves various considerations related to materials, labor, and site preparation. The estimated cost for a 10 Marla house for the grey structure phase is approximately PKR 6.8 million to PKR 7.5 million, though this can vary based on material quality and other factors.
By understanding the costs involved, planning for contingencies, and working with reputable contractors, you can ensure a smooth construction process that stays within budget. Always consult with professionals for an accurate estimate tailored to your specific project needs and local conditions.
