It’s easy to think of the climate in Morocco as dry and therefore overlook the need for moisture control in construction.

There are two main sources of water infiltration in buildings: from above (rain) and below (the ground).

Addressing moisture from above:
Tops of “parapet walls” (those low walls along the the roof perimeter) and window sills are normally finished with the same painted stucco that is used on the façade. However, this stucco and paint are only intended for vertical surfaces, not horizontal. Despite not being typically used in Morocco, copings on top of walls and window sills are necessary to keep moisture from penetrating exterior facades and damaging finishes. Without coping, water will slowly absorb into the stucco. Copings can be made of aluminum, precast concrete, stone, or ceramic. All of these materials inherently resist moisture and sun exposure that horizontal surfaces are subject to. In any case, the copings must be sloped to drain back towards the roof, away from the front façade.

Rooftop terraces, balconies, and terraces are normally finished with floor tile. However, it is important that the tile have a layer of waterproofing installed under it. This waterproofing can be roll-on sheet products, or liquid products applied with a brush. The waterproofing and tile must turn upwards at the perimeter so that any water accumulating on the floor does not soak into the walls. 

Additionally, the entire surface of the terrace must slope down towards a floor drain that is appropriately sized and with a drain cover that keeps debris from clogging the pipe.

Addressing moisture from below:
Due to the challenges of waterproofing foundation walls, basements should typically be used only as storage and garage space. However, if basement areas are to be used as occupied rooms, then proper waterproofing and foundation drainage are critically important.

Basement walls should have exterior waterproofing the full height of the wall down to the footing. They should also have a layer of gravel fill the full height of the wall, and drainage pipe running along the base of the footing to prevent water from accumulating in the soil outside of the basement.

All exterior façade walls, whether or not there is a basement, should have waterproofing to keep moisture from soaking into the building. Some common methods are:
– Continue underground waterproofing up the wall at least 30cm

– A layer of horizontal waterproofing at the bottom of the wall.
– Use water repellant stucco and paint.
– Avoiding soil and planting against the wall (gravel is better)
– Perimeter drains.
– Don’t attach irrigation system pipes and shutoff valves to the wall, and aim sprinklers away from walls.
– Put tile behind and hose spigots.

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When looking for a builder in Morocco, it’s crucial to start with trusted recommendations. Ask your architect, a friend, or someone else you trust to suggest a reliable builder. Speaking with the builder’s past clients and visiting the houses they have built can provide valuable insights. 

It’s also wise to choose a builder who is a member of a professional organization, such as the Association Marocaine des Entrepreneurs de Bâtiment et Travaux Publics (AMEBTP), the Fédération Nationale des Promoteurs Immobiliers (FNPI), or the Syndicat National des Architectes (SNA). Remember, it’s important that you find the builder, rather than letting them find you. To ensure you get the best deal, bid the job to several builders and secure the price in a written contract. 

To save on costs, consider starting with a small house and adding on later. Using simple, traditional finishes and low-cost local materials can also help manage expenses. Lastly, always allow for a minimum 10% contingency in your construction budget, though 30% is even better for unexpected costs.

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Construction in Morocco: Steps After Obtaining a Building Permit
Once you have secured a building permit in Morocco, the next steps involve notifying the municipality of the commencement of work. It’s essential to hire a “Bureau de contrôle,” an inspector responsible for overseeing the construction process. 

The architect will also visit the site regularly, completing a work report and obtaining a certificate of conformity. During construction, expect random inspections from the “contrôleur de la commune” (municipal inspector). Additionally, you will need to apply for water and sewerage connections.

Once construction is complete, register the building with the Agence Nationale de Consérvation Foncière et du Cadastre. Finally, obtain an occupancy permit, which allows you to move into the building.

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When people think of Morocco, images of hot, sun-drenched landscapes and warm temperatures often come to mind. However, this is a common misconception. While Morocco does enjoy warm weather for much of the year, the reality is that it can get quite cold in most parts of the country, particularly during the winter months. This cold can be especially pronounced indoors, where it can feel downright freezing. 

One of the key reasons for this indoor chill is that building regulations in Morocco only recently began to require insulation in walls. As a result, many buildings, both old and new, lack proper insulation. Additionally, buildings in Morocco are often constructed with materials designed to combat the heat, such as concrete and tile. While these materials provide a cool respite during the summer, they can create a chilly indoor environment in the winter.

If you are designing a house in Morocco, it is crucial to consider various heating options to ensure a comfortable living space throughout the year. Heating systems like mini splits, radiators, and heated floors can all be effective solutions. However, the placement of this equipment can significantly impact both the look of a room and the effectiveness of the heating.

To optimize the heating system, it is advisable to work closely with an architect to determine the best locations for radiators before construction begins. Radiant floors are another option to consider, as they provide consistent warmth and can be an aesthetically pleasing addition to any home. Heat pumps, such as mini splits, are a popular choice in Morocco due to their efficiency, but it is important to conceal the condenser units to maintain the visual appeal of the space. For larger rooms, a ducted system may be the most practical and efficient solution.

By carefully planning your heating system and working with experienced professionals, you can create a comfortable and cozy home in Morocco, dispelling the myth that it is always a warm or hot country.

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