May 23: Plastering continues on the back.
The material used for plastering is a mixture of cement, sand, and water (usually 1:4 or 1:5 cement/sand) with water added to achieve a workable consistency. Applied in 10-15 mm thickness per coat.
Plastering of the back almost finished.
The front, where 'revealing' of the windows and doors has begun. This refers to the finishing work done around the edges of doors & windows to make them look neat, straight, and properly aligned with the walls.
Revealing (1/3 or 1/4 mixture cement/sand for stronger, better edges) involves smoothing, plastering, or trimming the sides (called reveals) so the frames are well-fitted and aesthetically pleasing. This step also helps prepare the area for painting or final touches.
The carpenters are also trying to meet their target.
May 24: Scaffolding being built to plaster left side of building.
Pastering beginning on right side of building.
Showing how the plaster is applied and smoothed.
The back of the building plastered.
The classroom furniture (lots of it!).
The carpenters working hard -- sawing and planing.
May 26: Revealing the front pillars. Some dry cement sprinkled over the still wet surface makes the finish smoother and stronger (also on window and door reveals).
Today we completed revealing the windows, doors, and pillars -- by tomorrow will be cured.
The veranda view.
Two views of the building from the front.
May 27: Today, through hard work of my men, we successfully completed the screeding of all 3 classrooms, the office, and the store.
This marks a major step forward in preparing the interior spaces for finishing and furnishing.