Archy Chris Associates

02/03/2026

The forming of block walls on DPC is a critical stage in building construction, as it marks the commencement of walling work above the foundation level. After the foundation and German floor (or oversite concrete) have been properly cast and cured, the Damp Proof Course (DPC) is laid to prevent moisture from rising from the foundation into the walls.

Before laying the first course of blocks, the DPC surface is cleaned to remove debris, dust, or any sharp objects that may damage the membrane. A thin layer of mortar (usually 1:3 or 1:4 cement-to-sand ratio) is spread evenly on top of the DPC to provide proper bedding for the blocks. Care is taken to ensure the mortar thickness is uniform to maintain level alignment.

The first course of blocks is carefully set out according to the building layout drawing. Proper alignment, leveling, and squareness are checked using a spirit level, mason’s line, and measuring tape. This first course is very important because it determines the accuracy of the entire wall. Any mistake at this stage can affect the verticality and structural integrity of the wall.

Blocks are laid in a stretcher bond pattern to ensure proper interlocking and strength. Vertical joints are filled completely with mortar to avoid gaps that could weaken the wall. As the wall progresses upward, continuous checks are made for plumb, level, and straightness using a plumb bob and spirit level.

Special attention is given to corners and junctions to ensure they are properly bonded and reinforced where necessary. The wall is raised gradually, usually not exceeding a reasonable height per day to prevent instability before the mortar gains sufficient strength.

Overall, forming block walls on DPC requires precision, proper mortar mix, careful alignment, and strict supervision to ensure durability, stability, and protection against rising damp in the building structure.

26/02/2026

Ramming the backfilling of sand on site is the process of compacting filled sand around foundations, plinth beams, or floor areas using a mechanical ramming machine (plate compactor or jumping jack). This operation is carried out after sand is placed in layers to ensure proper compaction and stability before further construction activities such as casting concrete floors.

The sand is spread evenly in layers, usually not more than 150–200mm thick, and lightly moistened if necessary to achieve optimum compaction. The ramming machine is then moved systematically across the surface to compress the sand, remove air voids, and increase its density. Proper compaction prevents future settlement, cracks in floor slabs, and structural instability.

It is important to compact the sand in stages (layer by layer) rather than all at once. This ensures uniform strength and avoids weak spots within the filled area. Corners and edges near foundation walls should also receive special attention to achieve full consolidation.

In summary, ramming sand backfill with a ramming machine is a vital step in site preparation that enhances ground stability, improves load-bearing capacity, and ensures the durability of the structure above.

26/02/2026

When the depth of the column base exceeds 2 feet, it indicates that the structure requires a stronger and more stable foundation to safely transfer loads to the soil. A deeper column base is usually provided when the building carries heavy loads, such as in multi-storey structures, or when the soil bearing capacity is low and additional depth is needed to reach firmer ground.

At this depth, excavation must be done carefully to maintain the correct dimensions and avoid soil collapse. Proper compaction of the base, placement of blinding concrete (if required), and accurate reinforcement detailing are essential before casting. The increased depth also helps improve resistance against settlement, overturning, and shear failure, ensuring the stability and durability of the entire structure.

In summary, a column base deeper than 2 feet is a structural decision aimed at enhancing load distribution, safety, and long-term performance of the building.

22/02/2026

A massive column base is a critical structural element constructed on site to safely transfer heavy loads from columns down to the foundation and ultimately into the soil. It is typically designed for structures carrying significant vertical and lateral loads, such as multi-storey buildings or industrial facilities.

On site, the column base construction begins with accurate setting-out to ensure correct positioning according to structural drawings. Excavation is carried out to the required depth and dimensions, followed by proper compaction of the soil. A blinding layer of lean concrete is often placed to provide a clean, level surface for reinforcement works.

High-strength reinforcement bars are then fixed, forming a dense and well-arranged steel cage that provides adequate resistance against bending, shear, and axial forces. Starter bars are carefully aligned to connect the column to the base, ensuring structural continuity. Proper concrete cover is maintained using spacers to protect the steel from corrosion.

Concrete is poured in a controlled manner, well-vibrated to eliminate voids and ensure full compaction. Due to its massive size, special attention is given to curing to prevent cracking caused by heat of hydration. Continuous watering or curing compounds are applied to achieve the required strength and durability.

Overall, the massive column base plays a vital role in the stability, safety, and long-term performance of the structure, making precision and quality control on site extremely important.

19/02/2026

Block Walls from Foundation to Plinth Beam Level

The block walls were constructed from the foundation level up to the plinth beam level in accordance with the approved structural drawings and specifications. Block laying commenced after proper setting out, ensuring accurate alignment, level, and wall thickness. Solid sandcrete blocks were laid in a stretcher bond using the specified cement–sand mortar, with uniform mortar joints maintained throughout the work.

Verticality and horizontality were regularly checked using a plumb line, spirit level, and string line to ensure straight and stable walls. Openings for services were properly allowed for, and blockwork around these areas was adequately reinforced where required. The walls were securely bonded to the foundation and built to the required height to receive the plinth beam, providing a stable and durable base for the superstructure.

18/02/2026

Formation of Block Walls in the Foundation

The formation of block walls in the foundation involves laying concrete blocks on a properly prepared and cured foundation footing to create a stable and load-bearing substructure.

The process begins with setting out and marking the wall lines accurately according to the approved drawings. Blocks are laid in courses using cement mortar, ensuring correct alignment, level, and plumb at every stage.

Vertical joints are staggered (bonded) to improve strength and stability. Where required, reinforcement bars are installed and filled with concrete to enhance structural integrity. The block walls are built up to the specified foundation level, providing a solid base to safely support the superstructure above.

18/02/2026

Office work vs. Site work

Which one do you prefer as an Architect or Engineer?

18/02/2026

Engineer’s Role in the Positioning of Columns on a Construction Site

The engineer responsible for the positioning of columns on a construction site plays a critical role in ensuring the structural accuracy, safety, and stability of the building.

This role begins with setting out the exact column locations on site using approved structural drawings, grid lines, benchmarks, and surveying instruments. The engineer ensures that each column is placed precisely according to the design coordinates, centerlines, and levels specified by the structural engineer.

During ex*****on, the engineer supervises:

1. Excavation and foundation preparation for column bases.
2. Installation of reinforcement (rebar cages) in accordance with drawings and codes.
3. Alignment and plumbing of columns to ensure they are perfectly vertical.
4. Formwork positioning and stability before concreting.
5. Concrete pouring and compaction, ensuring correct mix and workmanship.

The engineer also conducts continuous quality control checks, verifying dimensions, spacing, cover to reinforcement, and curing practices. Any discrepancies are identified early and corrected to prevent structural defects.

Additionally, the engineer coordinates with surveyors, foremen, contractors, and safety officers to ensure that column positioning activities are carried out efficiently, safely, and in compliance with approved plans and site regulations.

Overall, the engineer’s responsibility in column positioning is essential to achieving structural integrity, load transfer accuracy, and long-term durability of the building.

15/02/2026

15/02/2026

Valentine’s Day on site be like:
Love is in the air, but cement dust is everywhere 😂❤️

While some people are exchanging gifts, we’re exchanging blocks and deadlines.

No flowers, no chocolates—just hard hats, drawings, and “Engineer, this one fit?” 💪🏗️