Expand Your Horizons Review

Expand Your Horizons Review is a training program that teaches people how to become high ticket sales specialists. It also teaches them how to leverage social media and develop business strategy. The course costs 129 AUD per month, but they offer a free 4-day trial.

Brent and Molly Orwell, aka the Lifestyle Hustlers, created this academy to help people make money online. The course offers a monthly fee and includes training on marketing strategies and business opportunities.

Brent And Molly Orwell's Expand Your Horizons Academy Review (Is It The  Best Multi-Level Marketing Course?) - Ippei Blog

Whether you are looking for a way to boost your income or want to expand your knowledge, there are plenty of ways to do so. For example, taking online courses is a great way to learn new skills and gain a better understanding of your industry. It can also help you make new connections and improve your career opportunities. In addition, it can also help you develop a more positive outlook on life.

Another way to expand your horizons is by traveling to different countries or cities. It is important to get out of your comfort zone and try new things, even if they are a little scary. The experience will help you become more adventurous and open minded. In fact, traveling can even help you build confidence in yourself and your abilities.

In addition to expanding your mind, it’s also important to spend time with people who lift you up and encourage you to pursue your dreams. This is important because many of us are stuck in routines that can be monotonous and boring. Expanding your horizons can be as simple as switching up your exercise routine or changing the scenery of your home office.

One of the most common reasons people don’t move forward in their careers is that they fear failure. However, if you’re committed to your goal and have a good support system, you can overcome this challenge. A few ways to expand your horizons include taking classes, joining professional organizations and networking with others.

EYH Academy is a great place to start if you’re looking for an easy-to-use program that can help you level up your lifestyle and earn passive income. Unlike most MLMs, it doesn’t require any inventory or expensive products. Plus, it’s safe to use and doesn’t cause any drama in your personal life.

The cost of EYH Academy is AU$129 per month (around USD $83). The website offers a free 4-day trial, so you can decide whether the program is worth it for you before signing up. The company also has a strict no refund policy, so you should check out their terms and conditions before signing up.

Expand your horizons is a program that teaches students the skills they need to be successful in math and science. The program uses a hands-on approach to teaching the importance of a career in science and math. The course also helps to break down sex stereotypes of girls in the sciences and provides role models for young women. The conference is held on college campuses across the country and in five countries.

The academy offers a variety of courses that cover topics from social media marketing to MLM. The website offers a 4-day free trial and charges AU$129 per month, which is around $83 USD today. You can sign up for the academy by clicking on the “Join Now” button on the website. Once you have signed up, you will receive a welcome email with instructions on how to use the system.

Expand Your Horizons has been accused of being a scam, but it is actually a legit online business training course that teaches you everything you need to know about digital marketing. The course is designed by legit digital marketers, and it can help you build a passive income online. However, the course is not for beginners. It is not the best option for people who are new to digital marketing, and it may take a while before you see any results.

In addition to offering a wide range of courses, Expand Your Horizons also offers online training for high ticket sales specialists. Its members learn to leverage social media, business strategy, and a mindset for success. The academy’s trainers include Brent and Molly Orwell, known as the Lifestyle Hustlers. The couple have created a virtual school with a fee per month called EYH (Expand Your Horizons).

While the EYH academy has many benefits, some users are not happy with its multi-level marketing aspect. Some complain that the academy’s instructors promote Enagic, a Japanese company that sells alkaline ionizers and water purification products. In addition, some people dislike the fact that they are not allowed to cancel their memberships. The EYH website clearly states that they do not issue refunds, and this applies even for the monthly subscription fee.

The instructors at expand your horizons are highly qualified and experienced professionals who provide their students with a comprehensive education portal. They add to it monthly, providing members with up-to-date training materials and opportunities. They also offer a private community where members and mentors can support each other. In addition to providing training, they are also public motivational speakers and podcasters. They inspire people to change their lives and live a life of abundance.

The online academy teaches students how to become high ticket sales specialists by leveraging social media and building a business strategy. Its founders are well-known influencers in the health and fitness space. Their work has inspired many to take action and create their own businesses. The platform also offers a free 4-day trial for new members. The fee to join the academy is AU$129 per month or US$85. It is a good option for beginners who want to learn how to make money online.

Expand Your Horizons has a great reputation on the Internet, with an excellent Trustpilot rating from its students. However, the site is not without its critics. There are some users who say the program is a scam. Others claim that it is a pyramid scheme and is not worth the investment. Despite these negative reviews, many students have found success with the academy.

Founded in April 2022, EYH Academy offers a comprehensive online course that teaches students how to create their own businesses. It also provides support and guidance from industry experts and business creators. The company is based in Australia and has a worldwide presence. Its customers include small- and medium-sized businesses, professional service providers, and independent contractors.

The program has a membership structure similar to an MLM program, where members earn commissions on the products they sell. Moreover, the program has a strict no-refund policy. Therefore, it is essential to read the Terms and Conditions carefully before joining the program.

The academy is a great choice for entrepreneurs who are looking to start their own business, but do not have the time or resources to do so on their own. The academy teaches them how to create an online business and build a community. It also helps them develop a mindset for success, which is important for building a successful business.

The reputation of expand your horizons academy is excellent, with 4.9 stars on Trustpilot from their students. However, there are still some people on Reddit who label it as a scam. It’s important to do your research before enrolling in any online course, and read reviews from other students. This will help you decide whether the program is right for you.

The Expand Your Horizons Academy is a monthly subscription-based platform that trains members to become high ticket sales specialists, leveraging social media and business strategy. It also teaches them how to develop a mindset for success. The company, formerly known as Lifestyle Hustlers, offers a free 4-day trial to new customers.

Besides offering training and support, EYH also provides tools and resources that enable members to build their own businesses. These include email marketing software, webinars and video tutorials, and a customer management system. The system allows users to create their own custom landing pages and email sequences. Moreover, it has enterprise-level security features and enforces cyber-security good practices.

The platform’s training is constantly updated and expanded, making it a valuable resource for entrepreneurs. The company’s trainers are also available to answer questions and provide support. In addition, the EYH Academy’s website is easy to navigate and contains a comprehensive library of articles on digital marketing.

In the video testimonials on the EYH website and YouTube channel, many students mention how the company has changed their lives. They describe how the platform has helped them to find opportunities and make money. They also share their experiences with other students and entrepreneurs.

One of the reasons why EYH is so successful is because it has a strong multi-level marketing (MLM) program with a focus on building relationships with potential customers. Unlike other MLM programs, EYH doesn’t sell water machines or products at sky-high prices. Its members earn commissions from referring new customers to the company and its affiliates.

In addition to training, EYH offers a supportive community and a proven track record of success. Its trainers are experienced, enthusiastic and dedicated to helping their students achieve their goals. They also have a diverse group of students from around the world.

How to Plan a Kitchen Remodeling Project

Whether you want to add energy-efficient appliances or a sleek range hood, a kitchen remodel will bring your home’s functionality up to date. The scope of your project may also include a redesign of the layout or tearing down walls for better flow and accessibility.kitchen remodeling

Ask prospective contractors to provide references from previous clients and review their portfolios online. Look for photos that showcase a variety of styles and materials. For professional help, contact J&R Construction now!

Your big-picture plan is where you map out all the changes you want to make. It’s fine to dream big during this phase because you can always scale your plans down later. For Johnson, that meant adding storage space to stow her favorite cookware and pantry items. She also knocked down a wall to open the room and add a touch of farmhouse style. The result is a kitchen that is both beautiful and functional.

Layout

A large kitchen renovation often involves more than just a cosmetic makeover. It may involve tearing down walls or moving appliances to new locations. It could also lead to the need for new flooring throughout the entire main floor of the house.

A kitchen remodel’s layout plays a critical role in its workability and convenience. The best layouts are centered on the kitchen’s three most used stations: the refrigerator, oven, and sink. These stations should be placed close together to ensure efficient movement in the room.

It’s also important to consider who will be using the kitchen and their specific needs. For example, cooks who frequently entertain need ample space for food preparation and seating. It’s also helpful to have different countertop heights, which allow children and elderly family members to participate in meal preparation.

Appliances

The appliances in a kitchen are more than just a practical necessity; they set the tone for the room. Upgrading them provides an opportunity to add color, texture, and on-trend design.

Changing old electronic devices to energy-efficient versions is another way to increase sustainability. This will help reduce electricity costs and save you money in the long run.

Adding or upgrading small appliances, like the toaster and microwave oven, is a quick and easy way to give your kitchen an instant makeover. Similarly, installing moldings, such as baseboards, crown molding, and toe-kicks, helps protect the walls and adds an extra layer of style to your kitchen. Kitchen remodeling is an exciting and creative project that can transform your home into a space of endless possibility. It’s also a great investment that can greatly increase your home’s value.

Cabinets

Cabinets account for about 30%–40% of a kitchen remodel’s budget and set the design style of the space. Choose from a variety of finishes, styles, materials, and extra features to suit your needs and preferences.

Stock cabinets are a good option for those on a tighter budget. Just make sure you know what you’re getting into; some lines are targeted at apartments and flip houses and use low-quality materials.

If your current cabinets are functional and in good condition but just need a fresh coat of paint, consider that instead of replacing them. It’s a labor-intensive but doable DIY project that costs a fraction of new custom cabinets. You can even remove the doors to create open shelving for a more airy look. Then you’ll be ready to move on to countertops. You’ll need to have all products in place before taking measurements for countertop fabrication.

Countertops

Countertops finish off a kitchen and can make or break the look of your space. There are many options available, from traditional laminate to more luxurious natural stone and even modern composite materials. Whatever you choose, it should complement your flooring, cabinetry, and other design elements for a cohesive finished look.

For a high-end option, consider stainless steel countertops. Popular with professional chefs, these durable surfaces are heat- and stain-resistant and develop an attractive patina over time.

Concrete countertops are another durable choice and a stylish alternative to granite. They’re also easy to clean and scratch-resistant. Homeowners who prefer a more modern design may choose quartz, which requires less maintenance than granite and comes in a variety of colors and styles. For a truly unique countertop, try reclaimed wood. This environmentally friendly material can be found at architectural salvage yards and repurposed into a one-of-a-kind kitchen countertop.

Flooring

Changing your kitchen’s flooring is a great way to revamp a room. It also allows for seamless integration with the rest of your home’s floorplan and is often a necessity for larger remodeling projects that involve walls being knocked down or rearranged.

Durability is one of the most important considerations for kitchen flooring, particularly if you have children or other family members who make frequent messes. Look for materials that are water-resistant and easy to clean, like vinyl and linoleum.

Hardwood floors provide warmth and beauty, and they can easily transition from the kitchen to the rest of your home if you have an open floor plan. Alternatively, consider engineered wood floors that feature a layer of plywood in the middle to add strength and moisture resistance. This makes them more durable than traditional hardwood floors.

Lighting

Lighting is a crucial component of any kitchen remodel, not only for its functional demands but also for its style. A kitchen with multiple layers of lighting can transform the space from a basic, utilitarian environment to a stylish gathering spot for friends and family.

There are various ways to accomplish a layered lighting scheme, including recessed can lights and under-cabinet lights that are built into the cabinets themselves or added later on in the process. Pendant lights can add both task and accent lighting, especially if they are hung closer to eye level in a room with high ceilings.

Other options include a range of lighting controls, such as dimmer switches and assisted light controls like voice control. These options make it easy to tweak the brightness of a space, which can be helpful when cooking.

Plumbing

A kitchen renovation often involves moving cabinets, sinks, appliances, and other fixtures. It can also involve rerouting pipes to suit new arrangements of these items.

Depending on the extent of the changes, this may be an opportunity to upgrade older plumbing pipes. For instance, galvanized steel pipes might be replaced with plastic PEX piping that doesn’t rust.

This is a good time to determine what changes are necessities and which ones are extras. It’s also a good idea to rough-design what you want your kitchen to look like during this stage. This will allow you to get an estimate from a contractor and plan for the downtime during which your kitchen will be inaccessible. This usually takes weeks or even months. It also helps to have contingency plans for meals during this period. Your plumber can help you with this planning.

Electrical

During kitchen remodeling, it’s not uncommon for electrical circuits to be added or expanded. This is especially true during major renovations, which typically require building and plumbing permits to complete. During this phase of the project, it is important to work with a licensed and experienced plumber and electrician to ensure that all changes are up to code and pass inspections.

Often, adding additional outlets and replacing older sockets with GFCI and AFCI (arc-fault circuit interrupters) is the most cost-effective way to add more power in your kitchen. These special circuits protect against electric shock and are especially necessary in the kitchen around sinks and countertop appliances.

A well-planned lighting scheme will also add value to your home, so look for energy-efficient bulbs. A dedicated outlet for charging devices is a great idea too. Ideally, this will be located close to the dishwasher and refrigerator.

Knocking Down a Wall

Knocking down an interior wall can help transform your kitchen into a more open space and improve functionality. However, it isn’t an easy project to undertake, and it may require a professional to help with the process.

The first step is to determine if the wall is load-bearing or not. To do this, head into the basement or crawl space and look for a support beam directly below the wall in question. If it’s there, the wall is load-bearing.

It is also important to note that the removal of a wall can cause plumbing and electrical work to be relocated, which will add to your remodeling costs. It is crucial to have a clear budget in mind before starting the project. This will help you avoid unexpected expenses down the road.

Masonry Repair – What You Need to Know

Masonry is an important part of the structure of a building. Whether it’s a facade, chimney, porch, or walkway, masonry needs regular maintenance and repairs. Understanding the difference between repair and restoration can help you determine when to call a professional Masonry Repair Charleston SC. Ultimately, your goal is to get the best results for your building while staying within budget.

Masonry ContractorsCracks can be a very serious problem in masonry repair. They are often a sign that the foundation of a home is sinking, so they should be fixed by professionals who specialize in both masonry and settling foundations. Bricks, mortar, and other masonry components can crack for several reasons. The most common are drying shrinkage, temperature fluctuations, and carbonation.

Drying shrinkage causes concrete masonry products to expand and contract with changing moisture content, which is caused by the cementitious-coated aggregate matrix in the masonry walls expanding when it absorbs water and contracting when it releases water. Temperature fluctuations can also cause concrete masonry wall panels to shrink and expand due to the freeze and thaw cycles. This causes the masonry to crack as the water trapped in the wall freezes and then thaws.

This can result in severe cracking in the masonry, especially in older houses where clayey soils subjected to shrinkage movement are often used. When cracking occurs, reinforcement must be used to offset the volumetric changes in the masonry. Loose mortar in brick walls and chimneys lets moisture through, damaging interior walls. It also accelerates the deterioration of sound mortar.

Fortunately, masonry repair is an inexpensive and simple project for homeowners. The materials are economical and require only a few basic tools that are available at masonry suppliers or home centers. Start by measuring the width of your masonry joints. That’s how deep you need to clear them to reach solid mortar. Then add a strip of painter’s tape to the straight edge at that depth.

Then, with a rotary hammer drill (available for rent at most hardware stores), clear the horizontal joints first and then the vertical ones. Work from outside corners inward, so the bricks don’t take extra pressure that could knock them out of place (Photo 3).

Once you’ve cleared out all the joints, pack in new mortar into the prepared ones. Holding a hawk or brick trowel just under the joint, push 1/4-inch layers into it.

Despite the strength of brick and mortar, cracks do occur in masonry structures. This is due to a variety of factors such as house settling, weather changes and damage.

In the long run, cracked bricks can cause serious issues with your home and foundation, so if you notice any cracks in your masonry structure, be sure to get them repaired. In the meantime, though, some small cosmetic fixes can help prevent your masonry from becoming damaged further and looking worse in the future.

For smaller cracks in the brick surface, use a tube of clear silicone sealant. It can be applied to the top of the crack and will blend with the wall once it dries.

For larger cracks in the brick face, it’s a good idea to use a brick patch. This method is best for bricks that are high up on a home or wall that most people cannot inspect.

When your chimney’s masonry has deteriorated significantly, you need a professional to inspect the problem and fix it. Repairing a damaged chimney isn’t cheap, but it’s much cheaper than replacing it entirely.

Masonry, which is made up of bricks and mortar, is a strong, durable material that can last for a long time. However, like anything else, masonry can break down over time.

This can happen due to weather damage or faulty construction. In either case, minor problems that don’t get fixed can eventually become major issues if left untreated.

Typical signs of masonry damage include cracks, crumbling mortar joints and stains that can be a sign of significant water damage. Small cracks in a mortar joint can be filled with brush-applied crack filler and a tuckpoint, but if there are more extensive cracks, you may need to have the entire mortar joint replaced.

Besides the obvious fire hazards, masonry cracks can cause serious structural damage to your chimney. They can also interfere with the proper venting of smoke and combustion materials.

Pros and Cons of Being a Filmmaker

As a filmmaker, you are not just creating films to make money. You’re also creating a unique perspective that you’re eager to share with others. The more you know your audience and the trends in the industry, the better equipped you will be to create compelling stories. However, there are some things you must keep in mind to avoid getting sidetracked. This article will share some tips for becoming a Filmmaker.

Independent Filmmaker

Parker Walbeck defines a filmmaker as an individual who manipulates images to create a moving story. They work closely with directors and producers to create captivating moving images. A Filmmaker needs to be creative and technical to produce a quality film, so they have a bachelor’s degree in a related field. To become a Filmmaker, you need to have a passion for creating films. Listed below are a few of the most important skills to help you become a successful filmmaker.
Become familiar with film festivals. Check out their website, Facebook, and Twitter profiles. Please find out how filmmakers like you have been exposed to the industry and look for opportunities to network with them. If you get stuck, you can ask fellow filmmakers for advice. Sometimes, they’ll answer your questions or suggest something you should try. A Filmmaker with a strong network of peers is essential to success. This way, you’ll have an opportunity to network with industry professionals and understand their work.
Work as a freelancer. Filmmakers can earn more money as freelancers, and they can choose projects that pay more than others. Filmmaking is a team sport, and knowing as many of your teammates as possible will be the key to success. If you’re not creative, you’ll probably struggle to make a living as a Filmmaker. So, get creative! You can make a living as a Filmmaker and enjoy the benefits!
Become familiar with legal and financial issues. Filmmaking 101 by Werner is geared towards aspiring filmmakers, but it’s more aimed at beginners. In this course, aspiring filmmakers will learn about filmmaking laws, finance their projects, and how to get their work exposed. While this course is geared toward beginning filmmakers, it’s useful for all levels of filmmakers. If you’re not familiar with these topics, you can sign up for the all-access pass.
If you want to learn more about the filmmaking process, a Full-Time Filmmaker is an excellent option. It’s run by working professionals who love sharing their knowledge. Unlike other film schools, Full-Time Filmmaker is constantly evolving. And it’s not for everyone. Just remember to use your discretion. If a Full-Time Filmmaker is not for you, there are other options. The online school is a great way to learn how to make films.
As a Filmmaker, you must know how to manage your time. You’ll need to know how to delegate and how to work with a wide variety of people. Whether you’re working with actors, producers, or other production staff, you must be able to communicate with a variety of people. Managing the time of the film’s actors is another challenge. Make sure you have the confidence to supervise those you hire.
Creating a niche audience is an excellent way to launch a career. Even if the film isn’t going to make money, the creative power of the story is enough to launch a career. It’s important to remember that films are hybrids, meaning they can launch a career regardless of their commercial viability. In addition to a niche audience, an independent Filmmaker can sell ancillary products to that audience.
As a filmmaker, it is important to remember that you can make a living without having a degree. A bachelor’s degree in film and television production will help you gain experience, establish contacts, and build your professional network. The most well-known specialists in this field will likely have a degree. This will help you stand out from the competition. So, consider going back to school for the filmmaking industry! Your goal is to become a successful Filmmaker!
During the post-production phase of the filmmaking process, the Filmmaker will oversee the editing of raw footage. They’ll also work closely with the sound and music departments to create the final product. In addition to the editing process, the Filmmaker will manage the release of the finished film. Screenings of the finished film may occur for a small audience before being released to the general public. The filmmaker should be available to answer questions during the post-production process.

An SSA student’s perspective on working in construction and practical workshops

An SSA student’s perspective on working in construction and practical workshops

Women in South Asia have long been doing intense physical labor in building sites and brick industries for relatively low pay. And, yet it is discouraging to be a part of a heavily male-dominated construction industry. Whenever I passed by a construction site, I felt powerless and afraid of the tools that men carried effortlessly, as if to prove that gender disparity in the labor market exists for a reason. In other words, the construction world felt unattainable in all its toughness.


Image Source: Women at work © The Record Nepal

As an aspiring architect, the dichotomy between architecture and construction seems nonsensical, particularly in the ever-evolving realm of sustainable architecture, where prototyping and experimenting are at the core of design processes. There is also an assumption that architects are above construction workers – a dynamic that sustains social and class imbalance. While there are many structures to criticize about, luckily, there are also associations like Critical Concrete who facilitate three-weeks of intense, hands-on workshops to understand the material, building techniques, and teamwork as part of the post-graduation course in sustainable architecture. The workshop positively shifted my perspective of the construction industry and further expanded my own personal boundaries.

“Let’s get our hands dirty!” architect Hanno Burtscher, instructed a team of ten women who came from different professional backgrounds, race, and geographical locations. Hanno introduced himself as an earthman, with an Austrian sense of humor, quick wit, and great teaching style, he grouped students in pairs to use all four senses except for sight to identify the local materials used for raw earth construction. This is how the welcome ceremony to the workshop began and it had already set a higher bar for the rest of the workshop. The joy of sharing stories moved the conversation from endless banter about cheese and food to serious topics like what sustainable construction means and how the uncertainty during the time of pandemic has affected our lives. In short, the day exuded a sense of togetherness. 


*Sketch by Charlotte Schneider, Alumni, Post Graduation 2020-2021

WEEK 1 | RAW EARTH CONSTRUCTION | HANNO BURTSCHER

The first week of the workshop was a battle – a battle to make proper earth mix to build a heated earthen bench and flooring for the kitchen at Critical Concrete. From the start, we learned that the key components of earth mix are clay, small gravel (0-5 mm), big gravel (5-15 mm), sand (0-4 mm), and water.

Most of us were already aware of the composition elements through our Raw Earth online course, but what made the difference in the practical workshop was the experimentation and improvisation in the mixing process since the excavation materials were available in limited amounts. The question constantly surfaced during the workshop – how do we make the most use of what is available around us? And this was a revelation in itself because theoretically, we learn the ratio – 40% of excavation, 20% of small gravel, 20% of big gravel, 20% of clay, and water – to achieve the desired mix. 

In practice, however, there had to be adjustments in the ratio based on the materials that were available to us. The way we integrated the composite materials together also made a big difference in the quality of the earth mix. So, at times we had to find creative ways of using what was available to us.

“While nearing the end of the earth mix for the floor, we ran out of the large size rocks. My typical mindset is to say, “Let’s just go buy more.” However, with the mindset of Critical Concrete to use what we already have, we were not going to buy more. To finish the mix, we scrounged throughout the construction yard looking for proper sized rocks and were able to get the right volume,” Mary shared her experience. And this was the general experience during the workshop – how to find sustainable solutions when we hit a roadblock.

In our earliest days of the workshop, we dropped a fist-sized earth mix balls from 1 meter height to see whether they stuck together or crumbled. We concluded that the ball should drop in larger pieces rather than completely shattering or sticking together. If it’s too sticky, either the clay or water content is too high which will result in a mixture that won’t be suitable to create a form. The same logic applies for the dry mixture as well. After a process of trial and error, we realized that there was no concrete recipe to achieve the perfect mix. But there were a number of factors that determined the quality of the mix. One of them is the clay content, which is normally 20 percent in total but depending on the situation, it could range from 5 – 30 percent. The purpose of the clay is to bind the materials but the more surface area we have in the mix, the more clay we require, from which we can derive that the smaller the surface area of excavation, the higher clay content would be required to bind it. Simple physics!

Many construction sites are not inviting spaces for women. Women’s work is often considered too frivolous to the degree that they are rendered valueless in the number-driven capitalist economic system. During the workshop, this dynamic was challenged. A team of mostly women and Hanno prepared the foundation for raw earth flooring and built the formwork for the bench. As I was lifting heavy stones and using power tools, I occupied a space that was not ‘normalized’ for women. I quickly realized that the problem wasn’t these too feminine, delicate hands but rather it was the devaluation of women’s work that put women in confinement of patriarchal ideas.

“We either put 100 percent into this or we don’t do it at all,” Hanno remarked while we were putting earth mix into the form work. The workshop was fueled by this exact mindset but was also filled with laughter and leisure in between our hard work. Overall, during the first week with Hanno, he guided us by observing the way we were interpreting the materials. We were able to experiment with the materials and make decisions based on our judgement.

Week 2 | Esposende Building Site | Hugo Dourado, Pietro

Degli Esposti, Martina Eandi

Esposende was roughly a forty-minute drive away from the city of Porto. And when the drive is long, conversations of past, present, and future start bouncing around.

“How do you say it?” Bara from Czech Republic asked.

“Vastu Shastra,” I repeated.

“And that means harmony of energy through design? That is how I would like to design the interior of my place one day,” remarked Charly from Germany. 

The conversation moved in such a way during the Esposende trip. The practical workshop as a part of the post graduation course merged people with similar ideologies, dreams, and passion of bringing social and political change through architecture and urban planning. The workshop also meant more than fulfilling a part of the course. Some of us had flown miles away leaving their usual life to come to Portugal to venture in a new journey.


*Sketch by Charlotte Schneider, Alumni, Post Graduation 2020-2021

The building site was under construction, so there were different tasks that the students could choose from such as fixing the board and batten cladding system, wood charring station, tiling the roof, or constructing a rocket stove.

The name rocket stove in itself made me curious. On top of that, I had also done some research on rocket stoves in one of the Participatory Design courses. I started my second week with Pietro, our Raw Earth course instructor and Martina, Mycelium course instructor, to complete the stove that could be used for both cooking and heating the entire house.

The making of the rocket stove involved lots of earth mix, it didn’t involve knowing rocket science at all. First, a stone wall had to be built to lay an exhaust pipe with an inclination of 30 degrees. The purpose of this was to carry the smoke from the rocket stove out of the house. For the stone wall, we prepared Argamassa (mortar) to attach stones of many sizes together and this alone took days to finish. As soon as the wall was completed, we started to make the exterior of the rocket stove with earth mix. The earth mix was ¼ part lime, 2 ½ part excavation, and ½ part straw. Since we were working with materials that were locally available, the excavation we were using included large stones. We wanted the mix to be a combination of lime, earth, and straw, so we sieved the stones out.

At times building with raw earth felt like cooking, in a sense that there is a process to achieve the result. You cannot skip a part to make the process faster, there is a procedure that you must follow otherwise the mix will not be suitable for construction. Therefore, while making the earth mix, it is important to completely let lime and excavation combine before putting any water. Once lime and excavation are completely mixed, giving off a grey-brown color, you slowly add water and straw to make a mixture. We used the cob technique to compress and compact fist sized balls, smashing it to attach them onto the pre-existing walls.

Slap slap slap!! We were hitting the earth mix on the side with a board to pack it down together. Another important thing that Pietro shared with us was that the cob technique allows us to build 30 cm per day. Since the earth mix is massive and wet, it needs time to dry and be compacted to build another layer on top of it. To keep the layers of earth mix interconnected, we created a vertebra-like structure at the end.

​​The rocket stove workshop made me realize how earth as a material is flexible. I could mold it in any shape I wanted and working on it with hands felt therapeutic. With the rocket stove, we were trying to achieve a dome shaped exterior to give it a character of its own. We molded the earth mix into long tiny sausages to create a curve on the upper part of the stove. It was interesting to see how earth could be shaped into any form with the right formwork which is also one of the big advantages of working with this natural material.

Life on Site

The Esposende building site was located between the ocean and mountains. In the early morning, you could see the tip of the mountains covered in fog and in the late afternoon during those early hot, summer days, you could see the blue ocean in the distance. With our cup of coffee that the Critical Concrete team prepared for us every morning, the day started with division of tasks and the students always got to pick first which task they wanted to be involved in.

After our coffee we all got into the groove and the site came to life again. Some of us were carrying heavy stones, using power tools, hanging on the roof putting tiles while others were listening carefully to what Hugo, our Vernacular Architecture course instructor, with immense knowledge and a sense of perfection, had to teach about board and batten cladding systems. It was fascinating to observe how everybody worked individually and in teams and clearly I wasn’t the only one who thought this. The neighbors in Esposende would walk by observing, commenting on our work, with their hands clasped behind their backs!

“It’s called umarell in Italian,” Linda shared jokingly.

Apparently, in Italian slang, umarell is when elderly people gather to observe construction sites and comment on how to do the work, often with holding their hands behind their back.

I became a umarell when it came to food. The Critical Concrete team prepared big batches of healthy, colorful vegan food during lunch time and we would all observe in awe. The variety of food made from simple ingredients that Critical Concrete provided us inspired me to be creative with food that we eat on a day-to-day basis. How many times do we actually think about eating in a sustainable manner? How do we creatively use leftover food in our diet? These questions among many others helped me unlearn and learn new ways of looking at sustainability.

Week 3 | Furniture Workshop | Samuel Kalika

I noticed how different building materials can be. Whereas with raw earth, exactness is not so important, with wood each millimeter is important. Building beautiful furniture requires many steps, patience, and exactness,” Viviana shared. After working with flexible material like earth, wood seemed like unlocking a whole different dimension. Samuel, our Participatory Design course instructor, understood this well and he made our work easier by giving us instructions on every powerful tool we were using.

Precision was the key. While cutting wood, if it’s 1 cm off, what could we do? We could not undo a cut once it was made neither could we adjust it, so a big part of the furniture workshop was to find a solution on the spot. We used many different tools to achieve the desired finish and construction: a universal machine to obtain desired thickness, sizes, flatness, and straight surfaces; the meter saw; the sander. Gradually the counters for the kitchen in Esposende house began to take shape. “As soon as I started approaching the work, I understood the importance of being precise in all the small details. Once we developed a good flow in the process, the work became easier and faster,” commented participant Linda Tonin.


*Sketch by Charlotte Schneider, Alumni, Post Graduation 2020-2021

While trying to achieve precision, mistakes are bound to occur but this is part of the learning process and that made the experience lighter and took away the fear of judgment. 

“To assemble the pieces, in particular for the bigger elements, we set up a strategy, naming the pieces of wood and measuring the different thicknesses needed for the joining beams. Since different people worked on the cutting process, sometimes the joints’ holes had different sizes. We took these mistakes as an occasion to add different colors of wood to fill the spaces: the mistakes, at the end, added aesthetic value to the furniture pieces,” Linda reflected.

REFLECTION

During the whole workshop, each one of us were sharing our experience of working in different environments. We were trying to understand what our preferences are, what materials, tools we like to use, and which instructors’ teaching style catered to our learning approach.

“Beyond the excitement, time passing and the verge to finish, it was necessary to maintain a safe working space, making sure you and everyone around is comfortable and don’t cause any danger. Having this in mind, I learned how to remain calm and careful with all the tasks, machines and my colleagues. This atmosphere brought a lot of awareness and future-thinking into my habits,” Agnieszka described her experience.

“Starting with the fact that the workshop took me out of all my comfort zones, I can say that the first learning was that the “unknown” can be very good. And the learnings went beyond practical. Being in contact with such an international and so human team certainly awakened in me my best version, my confidence in a more correct and viable future and made me reflect and work on my limiting standards. It was definitely a great achievement to be in a healthy work environment,” shared Júlia.

I resonate with both Agnieszka and Júlia. My experience with working in a group was liberating. It taught me how everybody in a team works differently — how each individual works, thinks, coordinates and cooperates while working on a project. On top of that, our group was very diverse, so learning from each one of them and getting to interact with everybody in-person felt special during this uncertain pandemic time. We were able to transfer our expertise and learn from each other’s skills. At the same time, we were a group of women doing construction work, realizing our own potential and that was empowerment in itself.

On a personal note, the workshop also altered my relationship with the construction industry and my perception of emancipated women. Historically, women have existed within the confinement of domestic space therefore women who occupy space outside of the predictable situations are labeled ‘modern’. And if the working conditions are healthy and their work is comparable to the status of a male, they are given recognition and visibility. But are all women able to get the same visibility and prestige as the emancipated, educated women? Women from lower class and caste in South Asia have been working in extreme conditions in construction sites and brick factories out of economic necessity. They have to go through daily work toxicity in a largely male-dominated workplace. While reflecting back on the practical workshop, I realize the utter importance of an equal workplace environment in the labor industry and greater recognition of those women who have paved the way.

The post An SSA student’s perspective on working in construction and practical workshops appeared first on Critical Concrete.

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What is a Boom Pump?

What is a Boom Pump?

Have you ever come across a concrete boom pump before? Unless you work in the construction trade, you may be forgiven for not really knowing what a boom pump actually does. However, for commercial and residential construction projects alike, it’s one of the most useful concrete pumping and layering tools out there.

What Exactly is a Concrete Boom Pump?

A concrete boom pump truck is an item that will help to deliver and pour concrete to projects which might have work being undertaken high off of the ground. For example, you may be working on a high-rise building or a block of flats, and it might otherwise be tricky for you to get concrete or cement up to such a height.

Boom pump on construction site.

A boom pump offers a hydraulic arm, which stretches up from the vehicle’s base level to pump concrete directly to the project area. A boom pump can arrive via truck, so that you have a mobile unit at your disposal, or you can also invest in static systems, too. Of course, there are no right or wrong answers as to which system works best here – it’s all a case of considering your individual needs!

You’ll likely want to invest in a concrete boom pump if you are struggling to get those trickier bits of your construction or building project layered in concrete from a standing level. In many cases, this type of pump will take away plenty of time and effort and will make sure that there is less labour involved with concrete layering.

How Else Might a Boom Pump Device be Helpful?

As mentioned, the boom pump system is great if you have high-level concrete pouring needs. It’s also a fantastic asset if there are obstacles or obstructions in your way, and normal concrete pumping or pouring systems are unable to support you.

You might also find that this type of concrete pump is ideal for pouring mix from above down onto a project. Ultimately, you’ll find that a boom pump is going to give you easier access to some of the trickier points and fixtures which traditional concrete solutions just can’t handle.

The best news is that a boom pumping system is very flexible, meaning that while you can generally expect a stretch of around 72m at basic length, you can also invest in extensions or ask for additional help from concrete suppliers.

Is a Boom Pump Right for my Project?

If you are finding laying foundations difficult due to tricky to reach spaces, then a concrete boom pump vehicle could make all the difference. Why not take a look at the pump options available and take a chance on a more flexible system and operation for your building and construction needs?

There’s no need for you to be doing more work and taking on more hassle than you need to. A fantastic boom pumping system could save you time, money, and energy. Take a look at what’s available and compare! If you would like to find out more about how we can help you, get in touch today on 07812 182778 or head over to our contact page for more details.

The post What is a Boom Pump? first appeared on Base Concrete.

What is Reinforced Concrete?

What is Reinforced Concrete?

A lot of you will be familiar with reinforced concrete as a building material, but may not be aware of the finer details. Commercial concrete is often a good solution for building work, we will be discovering a bit more about why this is the case, and the best ways to go about using the material for your building projects.

Everything You Need to Know About Reinforced Concrete

Commercial Concrete

This is concrete used as part of a building project, often used to create or enhance business facilities, industrial buildings, warehouses and retail stores. In an average building, you will find commercial concrete in plenty of spaces, such as the walls, floors and even some architectural details. A large majority of commercial buildings would have been put together with heavy use of commercial concrete. Like domestic concrete it has many benefits when used on a building site, durability being one of the most obvious.

Domestic Concrete

Domestic, or residential concrete usually has less demand placed on it in terms of structural performance and durability, but in itself, it is still considered a durable building material. Domestic concrete floors and pavements usually require a lower strength mix design and lighter reinforcement than commercial concrete.

reinforced concrete floor

Concrete Pumps

The purpose of a concrete pump is to have a tool that can convey liquid concrete. This works by having one piston drawing liquid concrete into a cylinder from a hopper while the other piston simultaneously pushes concrete out into discharge pipes. There will be a valve which can determine the cylinder that is open to the concrete hopper and the one which is open to the discharge pipes, which gets switched over each time the pistons reach an endpoint, with the process continuing with the first cylinder now discharging and the second drawing fresh concrete from the hopper.

Concrete Services

If you need to deal with reinforced concrete there are a couple of things that are crucial to consider. You need to make sure that if you are laying the material yourself you know what you are doing with it. You must also make sure that the concrete is of a high-quality standard. You must have the facilities to mix it correctly as well as an appropriate skill/strength level to physically handle it/the required machinery.

Alternatively, you may need to use the services of a professional concrete company, like Base Concrete, to prepare and lay the concrete and get your building project completed. Commercial concrete can be a great asset to all sorts of projects and can be purchased with some very good deals, just make sure you are only ever involved in using the services of professional and trusted companies. It is almost a guarantee that your area will have quite a lot of concrete services operating in your area where you can purchase your desired amounts of commercial concrete or have a service bring around the material and lay it on your behalf.

So, for all your concrete needs, contact Base Concrete today on 01442 389105. For more details, visit our contact page.

The post What is Reinforced Concrete? first appeared on Base Concrete.

Why Concrete is a Great Choice for Floors

Why Concrete is a Great Choice for Floors

You may just see concrete as a flooring option that is a pretty standard arrangement, one that places tend to opt for if they can’t think of a better choice. But some noteworthy reasons make concrete a great choice for flooring, it can elevate a stepping space to the next level… Let us take a look at 6 great benefits of concrete flooring and how it can transform the look of your property.

Strength 

If you know anything about the strengths of concrete, you will know that it’s a very durable mixture indeed. We’re talking about a material that can withstand very high volumes of weight, with strong pressure presenting no issues whatsoever. Heavy equipment and vehicles would not be enough to make a dent on a concrete floor. So a concrete floor can easily take all the foot traffic and moving of furniture that the average household is likely to take part in regularly without any issues!

Long-lasting

This durability means that the concrete will hold up and last for years to come. Especially if the concrete flooring is well looked after and sealed, you can expect it to last for a very long period before it becomes anywhere near being worn down. And even when the texture and colour begin to change with age, a long way down the line, that adds a bit of ‘character’ to the style of the flooring and is not a practical issue unless it actually becomes damaged in any respects.

Plenty of design options

Concrete does seem to be stereotyped as a boring flooring type, but that is quite unfair. Designers have come up with a wide range of options, with absolutely loads of different colour and textual effects to choose from. And don’t forget you can stain or paint the surface of concrete for your desired effects and also opt for other specialities such as polished concretes.

Reasonable 

If you’re cost-conscious, whether you’re looking to purchase domestic concrete or require flooring for office space, it remains one of the more economical options available. The clever aspect is that you can choose a faux floor pattern that resembles the style of a much more expensive flooring type for a fraction of the cost.

Easy to Maintain

Another big benefit of concrete is that it’s very easy to maintain. As mentioned, it will keep even better with a seal of some kind, a protective sealant that should be reapplied every 3-9 months on average. Regular sweeping and mopping will help keep the concrete looking fresh and new, but other than that, not much maintenance is required. Polishing your concrete is also a great way to keep it looking its best.

Good for Indoor and Outdoor

A final benefit of concrete flooring is it’s a reliable choice for both indoors and outdoors, so you can have it set up in your home or garden area.

You should enjoy selecting a great looking concrete flooring style, but there is also an alternative option. Consider hiring a mini concrete mixer which for a very small daily fee can produce your required amounts of concrete from the comfort of your garden! This can work out to be a very affordable way of getting the job done! So, for all your concrete needs, contact Base Concrete today on 01442 389105. For more details, visit our contact page.

The post Why Concrete is a Great Choice for Floors first appeared on Base Concrete.

The Many Uses of Concrete

The Many Uses of Concrete

Where would we be without concrete? It’s one of the most versatile and essential products for almost all construction projects across the world. It’s a substance that fills our world and can be seen in almost everything we see, but also one that is so easily overlooked.

There are so many uses for concrete. Its applications and uses are more varied and more widespread than you can imagine. There are over 20 different types of concrete that are used in a multitude of construction projects, but what are the most popular applications for it? What is it that makes concrete such an advantageous material to use, and how is it used in both domestic and commercial developments. Let’s take a look.

Origins of Concrete

Concrete, in one form or another, has been with us since 6500 BC. It can be traced back to what is now, the United Arab Emirates, where Nabataea traders created concrete floors, houses and even underground cisterns.

The Egyptians were using it to build the pyramids in 3000 BC, where they used mortars of lime and gypsum to create their version of cement. It was also used, not surprisingly perhaps, to help construct the Great Wall of China. It didn’t become concrete, at least what we recognise it as today, until the 1800s, but since then, its uses have grown more and more.

Buildings

For any of us living in a house or working in a building, it’s likely to be made from brick and mortar to some degree. In the UK, it took off after World War II as part of the rebuilding efforts. Nowadays, it’s probably the most popular application of concrete in the modern age and will be for centuries to come.

Foundation

Even if the building itself is more steel and glass, its foundations will be made from or secured in, concrete. Concrete is so popular because it won’t burn or rot, which means that the foundation is going to maintain its strength and rigidity for many years.

Roads and Bridges

As we move up in the world, the very streets you walk on and the bridges you use to cross those roads will also be made of concrete. Again, concrete wins against other materials because of its durability and safety. It might not be obvious, but another advantage of concrete in these environments is that it offers better reflectivity at night. Of course, it’s not just pedestrians it has to support, but because it can hold heavier weights, such as cars and trucks, it’s the perfect material to use.

Why Concrete has so Many Uses

The applications for concrete don’t stop there. They are only the start. Concrete is so popular in different projects simply because of its adaptability. It’s not sensitive to moisture, can be shaped and moulded into almost any design, affordable and is recyclable.

It has a very long lifespan, doesn’t release any dangerous organic compounds and is just as safe for inhabitants. It’s easy to forget the difference concrete has made to our world, but just look around and you’ll see that it’s everywhere.

Contact Us

Thank you for reading this blog post. Should you be looking for any mixes or perhaps ready mixed concrete itself, then we can deliver it straight to your door. So, if you have any upcoming tasks, then get in touch today on 01442 389105 or visit our contact page for more details.

The post The Many Uses of Concrete first appeared on Base Concrete.

The Different Types of Concrete Pumps

The Different Types of Concrete Pumps

Construction projects require a constant supply of concrete, and without it, the construction project will be impossible to complete. Construction projects are usually faced with the issue of how to efficiently handle a large quantity of concrete manually. To resolve this issue, the use of the different types of concrete pumps at construction sites was invented.

This invention made the handling and placing of large concrete easier. Concrete pumps also made the construction process of tall buildings, skyscrapers and large construction projects more organised and efficient. The market has different types of concrete pumps available according to the size of the construction projects. There are also many concrete services which allow concrete pumps to be hired.

The different types of concrete pumps used for the diverse construction project are cost-effective. During construction projects, it is very crucial to choose the right concrete pumps that are economical, efficient and one that is specifically designed for your particular construction project. Below are the different types of concrete pumps and their benefits.

Concrete Pumps can be categorised into boom pumps, concrete pumps trucks, stationary pumps and concrete line pumps.

a concrete pump pouring concrete onto construction site

Boom Pump

A boom pump is a type of concrete pump which is characterised by a controlled hydraulic arm where concrete is placed and dispersed accurately in the right direction where it’s needed.

They’re usually attached to a truck. Boom pumps are normally used for huge construction projects. It can easily navigate any barrier on its way and provides the right portions and angles during the construction process.

It’s easy to manoeuvre a boom pump. And it can churn out a large amount of concrete at a fast speed. It’s highly recommended to use the boom pumps for large construction projects.

Stationary pump

The stationary pump, unlike boom pumps, is characterised by less manoeuvrability. It’s usually attached to a truck or mounted on a trailer and the concrete is pumped through rubber hoses or steel pipelines. Working with a stationary pump requires that the direction of the pipeline be directed to the particular portion where the concrete is needed.

Stationary pumps are known for pouring concrete at a slower speed than other types of pump. So it’s recommended where the demand for a smaller volume of concrete is required for a construction project.

Specialised Usage Pump

Specialised usage pumps are one of the different types of concrete pumps that are readily available. Specialised Usage Pumps are a premium option. They can be designed for special type of construction projects, such as construction projects in mines or tunnels.

Concrete Line Pumps

Concrete line pumps are usually referred to as a trailer-mounted concrete pump or truck-mounted concrete pump because of its arrangement. The arrangement features a line pump attached to the trailer or the back of the truck. They are compact and recommended for small construction projects.

When choosing the right type of concrete pumps for a particular construction project, factors like the design of concrete mix, vertical and horizontal distances, size of the aggregate being used, volume or quantity of concrete should be carefully considered. Thank you for reading this month’s blog. Should you have any queries or perhaps are looking for equipment to hire, call us on 01442 389105 or visit our contact page for more details.

The post The Different Types of Concrete Pumps first appeared on Base Concrete.