7.2.2011

BUILDING NEWS

John and his team arrived early today and began to deal with all the problems the rains caused. Some of the iron had to be taken up so that the water could be pumped away from the bottom of the foundation trenches. Whilst that was happening they began replacing the iron from the back and adding the second layer.

By lunchtime it was possible to see that some of the front trenches had collapsed. Some tempers heated up and language and gumboot throwing increased. We all felt pretty fed up but John is pushing us forward as he still intends to pour on Wednesday! More bad weather is on the way and no one wants to be forced into taking up the iron and plastic for a second time.

Today, however, the sun shone, the ground began to dry out and it was possible to dream of things to come. The green roof and waterproofing men called to have a look and show us their samples. They spray a material that looks like a very thick wet suit directly onto the concrete walls and roof. It adheres to the surface all over so that if a puncture occurs the leak is limited to that exact spot and can be fixed locally.

After the spray on membrane they are recommending a plastic draining cell layer that will be separated from the soil refill by geotextile fabric. It sounds really good but really expensive. Something tells us that this is where the budget totally blows out! I also think that this is something we really do have to get right.

OTHER NEWS

The progress was filmed today and I was completely impressed by John. Wow, I wish I could speak that well in front of people. This totally insane weather has created a real feeling of drama added to which today is the second anniversary of the bush fires that destroyed our old home and business. We did not even think of attending any of the functions that have been organised.

For us it is a day of celebration because none of our family or guests died in the fires. Other people are in the absolute opposite position and our feelings go out to them.
The whole community supported us over the fire event and in gratitude I am putting the effort in to documenting our build.

The idea is to try and record the stages and information so it will be easier for anyone else who wants to build a similar home. Fires are a constant worry for everyone in Steels Creek and, of course, for anyone living in an area of Australia near bushland. Energy bills are shooting up and the climate is getting more and more extreme. Houses dug into the earth might provide a lot of answers.