At the back of the house, we began digging foundations for two extension buildings and because we live on the side of a mountain these cut straight into glorious, sticky orange clay. Between these two mirroring buildings will be a lovely little kitchen garden courtyard… fresh herbs anyone?!
On site we have an integral team member in Geoffrey. Neither a cracked brick nor a warped piece of timber gets past his scrutinous eyes. When Geoffrey was happy that the foundations were deep enough, we began Stage 2…
Now comes a very theatrical and enjoyable next step… The mixer arrived but with no way to pour concrete directly into the foundations… so it was all hands on deck. Whether you were on site to plaster, lay bricks or as a carpenter you grabbed a wheelbarrow and fell into formation. Unless you are Geoffrey, then you supervise.
Wheelbarrows full of concrete raced up and down the driveway and along with it joy and comradery.
Meanwhile Geoffrey instructed each person exactly where their load should be dumped, ensuring an even distribution. The team collectively raced against the drying time of the concrete until victory was achieved when the last wheelbarrow was emptied into the foundations.
The final and vital step involved the use of a concrete vibrator to ensure no big bubbles or air pockets get locked into the foundations. Grant and Teddy assisted but ultimately this was Geoffrey’s job with his keen eye and trusty due diligence.
When the concrete had dried and the sand infill had been compacted, Andreas the engineer came to do the testing to ensure that the foundations are fit for purpose.
Geoffrey watched on with eager eyes… WE PASSED! And now we are ready to build up!
