Archive for June 10th, 2009

10
Jun

My departure rapidly approaches

   Posted by: Chipman   in Malawi 2009

I have spent the last few days trying to decide what tools to bring on the trip. There was a tool request list from the missionaries that live on site and we have most, if not all, of those items covered. However, I have spent a few hours wandering aimlessly through Home Depot picking up random odds and ends that might be useful to take (Duct Tape!!!). Our group leader sent us an email regarding the construction of the house. The foundation is complete and some of the walls are going up. They are made of hydraform (http://www.hydraform.com/) which is basically a grooved concrete block that is dry stacked. The floor is concrete and already poured. We will be building the wood trusses and attaching the corrugated tin roof. Windows and doors may or may not be installed when we get there. We will also be building cabinetry, countertops, wardrobes, etc. out of blockboard (http://www.design-technology.org/Blockboard.htm) and possibly some rough in electrical and plumbing. I imagine we may do some painting/finish work if we get to that point.

I guess at some point I should start to figure out what I’m bringing besides tools. But there’s plenty of time for that. I still have 4 days!!