The blockwork is going up!

The blockwork is going up! It has been too hot to work during the day, so we’ve fitted in a couple of evenings this week and last. I also went hiking at the weekend.

Even in the evenings, we’ve had to keep spraying the blocks with water to stop the dry concrete drawing moisture out of the mortar before it has set properly.

There’s a lot to think about as we go: keeping the blocks level horizontally and straight vertically, getting the mortar mix right for the weather conditions, and cutting blocks to fit around the windposts and at the movement joint.

We also have to remember where and when to put in the wall ties, then cut the insulation boards so they fit snugly without disturbing the ties.

I’ve fitted some building profiles—the orange poles—to make it easier to set up and move the string line. They’re helping us keep everything aligned as the walls get higher.