Making Cement Blocks

Some building materials have been unavailable in Malawi due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Quarry dust is one of those materials.  Quarry dust is an ingredient in making concrete blocks.  However, our builder (see www.orphanshade.com/post/miracles-do-happen) has been evaluating material substitutions in order form blocks that can used to build a strong and lasting home.  The image demonstrates some of the trial run cement blocks produced by the builder recently.

The image below is an example of a production run of cement blocks (Not ours).  They are produced by a small machine with a crew of 4 to 5 guys.  
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A few facts:

• Our home design requires 10,000 blocks
• The blocks represent about 50% of the cost of the home in Mpangeti
• It is cheaper to form the blocks at the construction site (transportation cost)
• Blocks are used to ensure structural integrity during flooding and high winds

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