Construction Material Quality
Sand
Aggregate
We use VSI aggregate exclusively. VSI (Vertical Shaft Impact) crusher produces cubical, angular particles for better interlocking, increased compressive strength, and uniform grading. This ensures a consistent mix with reduced segregation and bleeding.
| Property | Non-VSI Aggregate | VSI Aggregate ✓ We Use |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Irregular, flaky (jaw/cone crusher) | Cubical, angular — better interlocking |
| Compressive Strength | Lower | Higher — better concrete strength |
| Grading | Variable | Uniform, controlled grading |
| Segregation Risk | Higher | Reduced segregation and bleeding |
Steel Reinforcement
| Property | QST Steel (Polaad) | TMT Steel ✓ We Use |
|---|---|---|
| Brands | Polaad and similar | TATA, JSW, Jindal Steel |
| Cooling Method | Water quenching + self-tempering | Controlled quenching + atmospheric cooling |
| Tensile Strength | Good | Very High |
| Ductility | Moderate | Excellent |
| Earthquake Resistance | Lower | High |
| Corrosion Resistance | Lower | Better (refined microstructure) |
| Technology | Older | Advanced & standardised |
Cement — Types & Usage
Masonry Units — Bricks & Blocks
Ready Mix Concrete (RMC)
| Grade | Application |
|---|---|
| M10, M15 | PCC works (Plain Cement Concrete) |
| M20 | Residential RCC — standard structures |
| M25, M30 | Commercial buildings & high-rise structures |
| M35 – M60 | Bridges, flyovers, special structures |
Advantages of RMC: Consistent uniform quality, faster construction, reduced material wastage, less site labour, better strength and durability, environment-friendly (less dust & noise).
Granite — Selection Guide
| Factor | South Indian Granite | Rajasthan Granite |
|---|---|---|
| Colours | Deep blacks, blues, whites, dark reds | Pinks, yellows, browns, lighter reds |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5–7.5 — harder, denser | 6.0–7.0 — slightly softer |
| Water Absorption | 0.15–0.35% — better stain resistance | 0.25–0.50% — needs periodic sealing |
| Price Range | ₹120–₹400 per sq.ft (premium) | ₹60–₹150 per sq.ft (budget-friendly) |
| Best For | Luxury villas, kitchen countertops, high-end lobbies | Apartments, large floors, outdoor paving |
Standard Thickness by Application:
Tile Types & Applications
Tile Adhesive — We Use Polymer-Modified (C2/S1/S2): For vitrified and large-format tiles, wet areas, and exterior applications. Top brands: JK Cement, Dr. Fixit, Sika India, Ultratech.
Quality Checklist — Phase by Phase
Every construction phase at Aakar Group has a defined quality checklist. Each item is inspected, documented, and signed off before the next phase commences. Architects receive copies of all phase reports.
Foundation depth verified
Shallow foundation: up to 1.5m / Isolated footing: 1.0–2.0m / Basement: 3.0m+ as per design
Weak soil removed
Unsuitable or fill soil excavated down to stable bearing stratum
Site level and alignment
Profile pegs set, levels checked against drawing benchmarks
De-watering arranged
Water table managed before concreting begins in wet soil conditions
Foundation type confirmed
Isolated / Combined / Strip / Raft / Pile — as per structural drawings
PCC bed laid and cured
Minimum 50mm PCC (M10 or M15) before reinforcement
Rebar placement verified
Size, spacing, and lap lengths checked against structural drawings
Concrete cover blocks placed
Minimum cover maintained as per IS 456 — checked before pour
Concrete grade as specified
RMC grade, slump, and cube samples taken per batch
Column size matches drawing
Cross-section dimensions verified: Square / Rectangular / Circular / L or T shaped
Plumb and alignment checked
All columns plumb-checked with spirit level and plumb bob before concreting
Tie/lateral reinforcement spacing
Stirrup spacing verified per drawing — no deviations permitted
Adequate vibration during pour
Needle vibrator used systematically — no honeycombing in final finish
Slab thickness as per design
One-way: 100–150mm / Two-way: 120–160mm / Cantilever: 120–150mm
Steel grade confirmed (Fe500/Fe550)
Bar size, spacing, and main + distribution bar placement verified
Formwork — plywood + props
Plywood formwork used for smooth surface finish; no cement slurry leakage
Concrete grade M20/M25 minimum
RMC delivery, cube test samples taken, adequate vibration confirmed
Curing minimum 14 days
Ponding or wet gunny bags — continuous curing, no premature stripping
Brick quality verified
Uniform size, sharp edges, no cracks, water absorption <20%, ring test passed
Mortar mix ratio correct
1:6 for internal, 1:5 for external — PPC cement, washed sand
Plumb and level maintained
Vertical and horizontal alignment checked every course
Bricks pre-wetted
Bricks soaked minimum 2 hours before laying to prevent moisture suction
Mix ratio as per zone
Internal: 1:5 (12mm) / External: 1:4 (15–20mm) / Ceiling: 1:3 (6–10mm)
Polypropylene fibres added
PP fibres in mix to prevent shrinkage cracks and improve adhesion
Wire mesh at junctions
Wire mesh fixed at RCC-masonry junctions and openings to prevent differential cracking
Surface cured for 7 days
Wet gunny bags or mist curing applied after initial set
Site Work Manual — 13 Stages
Our standardised construction sequence — each stage is executed in order, with quality checks signed off before proceeding. This manual is shared with every architect we work with.
Excavation
Removal of soil, rock, or material to reach required foundation level. Provides space for footings, raft, pile caps, or basement. Weak and unsuitable soil is removed to ensure structural stability.
Foundation
The lowest structural part — transfers superstructure loads safely to soil without excessive settlement or failure. Foundation type selected per structural design: Isolated / Combined / Strip / Raft / Pile / Caisson.
Column Construction
Vertical structural members transferring loads from slabs, beams, and upper floors to foundation. Types: Square, Rectangular, Circular, L-shaped, T-shaped. Loaded axially, eccentrically, or as slender columns per design.
Ground Beam
RCC beam at ground level connecting columns and supporting masonry walls in framed structures. Reduces differential settlement, avoids direct wall load on soil, and improves structural stability.
Plinth Work
Portion between ground level and finished floor level (FFL). Raises building above ground, prevents dampness, surface water, and termite entry. Provides a level, stable base for the superstructure.
Brickwork / Masonry
Masonry construction using bricks bonded with mortar — walls, partitions, and boundary structures. Quality requirements: uniform size and colour, sharp edges, no cracks, compressive strength per IS code, water absorption <20%.
Slab Construction
Horizontal RCC members forming floors and roofs — safely transferring loads to beams, columns, and walls. Types: One-way, Two-way, Cantilever, Flat, Ribbed, Solid slab as per structural design.
Granite Fitting
Fixing natural granite on floors, walls, staircases, kitchen platforms, and external areas. Provides strength, durability, and premium appearance. South Indian granite for premium use; Rajasthan granite for budget projects.
Window Grills
Protective and decorative framework fixed to windows for safety, security, and aesthetics. Material chosen as per architect specification.
Plastering
Cement-sand mortar coat applied to walls and ceilings for smooth, durable surface — protects from weather, hides imperfections, provides paint base. PP fibres added for crack control; wire mesh at junctions.
Electrical (Concealed)
All wiring, conduits, and junction boxes concealed inside walls, floors, or ceilings. Only switches, sockets, and fixtures remain visible. Approved brands: Polycab, RR Kabel, Finolex, Havells, V-Guard.
Plumbing (Concealed)
All water supply and drainage pipes concealed inside walls, floors, or under tiles. Only fixtures (taps, showers, flush plates) are visible. CPVC for hot & cold supply; UPVC for cold water and drainage.
Tile Fitting
Final floor and wall tile installation using polymer-modified tile adhesive for superior bond. Tiles selected as per architect specification. Grout colour coordinated with tile choice.
Electrical — Approved Brands & Specifications
Approved Wire Brands
High-quality copper conductors
Low resistance and long operational life across all wire gauges
Flame retardant & heat resistant insulation
PVC insulation protects against moisture, abrasion, and chemicals
Sizes available: 1.0 mm² to 6.0 mm²
Suitable for lighting, power outlets, AC, and heavy appliances
ISI certified — all materials
Full compliance with Indian safety norms. Fire retardant, shock resistant.
Approved Switch & Modular Brands
Zero-spark technology
Smoother switching, extended life, reduced fire risk
Heat & fire resistant designs
Polycarbonate housing — strong, durable, shock-proof
Overload protection built-in
Soft touch control with overload safety mechanisms
Plumbing — Pipe Selection & Sanitary Standards
CPVC Pipes
Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride — Hot & Cold Water
UPVC Pipes
Unplasticized PVC — Cold Water & Drainage
Approved Pipe Brands
Sanitary Fittings — Approved Brands
CP (Chrome-Plated) fittings — taps, showerheads, mixers — are specified as per architect's selection. We procure from approved brands only and verify all fitting quality before installation.
Finishes — Doors, Windows, Railings & Colour
Door Frames
Granite Door Frame (Chaaukhaat)
Durable, zero maintenance, weather-resistant, termite-proof, no warping. Polished or honed finish as specified.
Teak Wood Frame (Premium)
Naturally termite and moisture resistant — rich grain, highly durable. Most expensive but longest lasting for interior and exterior.
Plywood Door Frame
Dimensionally stable — no warping in humidity fluctuations. Excellent base for laminates, veneers, or paint. Lightweight and easy to install.