Our construction project in the Philippines

[imagine]

our construction project,
to rebuild Lolita's existing 1 storey downtown store, in prime location,

the rebuild ground floor store for rental, existing tenants reserving 1st choice to return, their business is car parts, the next new floor will be office for rental, and a top floor which will be the roof top cafe for ourselves to run, proposed photo impression below

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/t1/532254_10203572020290390_275454815_n.jpg

work should begin 1st week in April,
very exciting :Jump::biggrin:

[RickyR]

Wow, what a great project. Good luck.

[fred]

Wow... Very posh!!
Watch out Henry Si!!
Very interested to see construction pics!

[mike1]

our construction project,
to rebuild Lolita's existing 1 storey downtown store, in prime location,

the rebuild ground floor store for rental, existing tenants reserving 1st choice to return, their business is car parts, the next new floor will be office for rental, and a top floor which will be the roof top cafe for ourselves to run, proposed photo impression below

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/t1/532254_10203572020290390_275454815_n.jpg

work should begin 1st week in April,
very exciting :Jump::biggrin:

keep us posted on the progress :smile:

[rani]

Where exactly is your location in Cainta?

[Terpe]

Well done Stewart......I think lots of folks interested in your new life :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

Looks like a very interesting project Stewart.

Similar to premises that I designed myself and then had built in the Phils. :smile:

[imagine]

Wow... Very posh!!
Watch out Henry Si!!
Very interested to see construction pics!

watch this space :biggrin::xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

Where exactly is your location in Cainta?

no Cainta was only a temporary stay while sorting 13a,

this is Malaybalay, Bukidnon

[imagine]

Looks like a very interesting project Stewart.

Similar to premises that I designed myself and then had built in the Phils. :smile:

:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

Well done Stewart......I think lots of folks interested in your new life :xxgrinning--00xx3:

thanks Peter :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Arthur Little]

our construction project,
to rebuild Lolita's existing 1 storey downtown store, in prime location,

the rebuild ground floor store for rental, existing tenants reserving 1st choice to return, their business is car parts, the next new floor will be office for rental, and a top floor which will be the roof top cafe for ourselves to run, proposed photo impression below

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/t1/532254_10203572020290390_275454815_n.jpg

work should begin 1st week in April,
very exciting :Jump::biggrin:

:cwm24: ... wow, I'll say! :yeahthat:

GREAT project, Stewart & Lolita ... all the very best with your plans. Please keep us updated on its progress once building gets under way next month. :smile:

:Jump: ... delighted too, to read (on your corresponding thread) that you're both "happy as Larry" at being settled into your new home in Bukidnon.

God Bless! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

I have a chap making the hollow blocks started about 5 weeks ago and still working, having them made at our home and will transport to site when project starts,

We have a forman and 10 skilled workers from Cagayan, 10 labourers local, and a liason officer ( my bro inlaw)all ready to start come april,

Needing a cement mixer for 3 months would cost 1000 peso a day so I bought a new one a 1 bagger for 55000 peso and can use after when we build our house then sell on for at least half price, also a vibrator, rebar cutter, ladders, safety hats welders masks etc etc,

I have learned that if any of my workers are injured then I am responsibe:yikes:


https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/t1/10001530_10203576501922428_1143832123_n.jpg

[jake]

Very nice, indeed :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Here is a building we constructed around 8 years ago. I'm sure yours will be much posher!
If you plan to have an open roof think carefully about it, as the rain in the Philippines seems to get into every little nook and cranny.

http://i645.photobucket.com/albums/uu178/megansco/GEDC2378_zps03d437bf.jpg

[stevewool]

thats a good looking building Jake

[raynaputi]

Very nice, indeed :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Here is a building we constructed around 8 years ago. I'm sure yours will be much posher!
If you plan to have an open roof think carefully about it, as the rain in the Philippines seems to get into every little nook and cranny.

http://i645.photobucket.com/albums/uu178/megansco/GEDC2378_zps03d437bf.jpg

I miss the place already Jake!!! SHOES!!!! :Jump:

[Terpe]

Glad to see you keeping busy Stewart :icon_lol:

[fred]

Stu.. Where are the shop fronts (entrances) to the building on left and right? I'm assuming that the bit in the middle above the western union office is the staircase going to roof top?

[imagine]

Stu.. Where are the shop fronts (entrances) to the building on left and right? I'm assuming that the bit in the middle above the western union office is the staircase going to roof top?

door to your left as your facing is entrance and stairs to second floor and roof top, second floor with the glass frontage will be office ,

[Rosie1958]

Best of luck with your building project, Imagine .......... I look forward to reading your updates! :xxgrinning--00xx3::xxgrinning--00xx3::xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

thank you Rosie :smile:

[bigmarco]

Good luck with your project Stewart. Exciting times :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevie c]

It's looking fantastic Stewart :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[jake]

How many sqm is the lot?

[imagine]

How many sqm is the lot?

ground floor 60sqm, 1st floor 40 sqm, roof top 40 sqm,

estimated 5 years to return the investment from rental, at investment of 1.6 million ,possible could exceed 1.6 million, but im happy with that,

return income is based on renting all three floors, but it may make a difference running the roof top caffee ourselves, I would think if run well will exceed any rental income

[tanga]

Very nice, indeed :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Here is a building we constructed around 8 years ago. I'm sure yours will be much posher!
If you plan to have an open roof think carefully about it, as the rain in the Philippines seems to get into every little nook and cranny.

http://i645.photobucket.com/albums/uu178/megansco/GEDC2378_zps03d437bf.jpg

Really nice building. looks like a shoe store I know in Liliw

[Bluebirdjones]

Guys (esp Imagine, Jake, Fred...)
I'm thinking about the idea of buying a kit house (timber construction) from a Malaysian, Aussie or other regional supplier, and then shipping in a container to the Philippines.

Any of you aware of others who've done the same/similar ?

Any pitfalls other than the obvious ? (customs duty, make sure wood is treated, excavate to get rid of termite nests)

I'm thinking something like this:
http://www.house-uk.co.uk/Lauri147.html
or
http://www.alternatedwellings.com.au/kornalla.asp
as an idea

[grahamw48]

I think the last thing I'd be importing into the Phils would be timber/'lumber'...considering the ridiculously low prices charged for the stuff there.

Added to that, it's probably the last material I'd be wanting to build anything worth more than a few thousand pesos from, as its life in a tropical, pest-infested country is likely to be very short. IMHO. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Bluebirdjones]

Graham, appreciate the comments.

I agree lumber should (and will) be cheaper, but I'm more interested in not starting from scratch, hence the "kit" idea.

Granted Australia ain't as "tropical" as Philly, but it's certainly as hot and as pest-infested.... and they go down the timber house route often.
Ditto Malaysia.

Not saying I disagree with you, because I've also had these thoughts...... I just need to do some more research before totally dismissing the idea.

[Terpe]

Probably ought to have its own dedicated thread as it's very interesting and could well develop over time.

I've often considered constructing something a 'bit-different' in the Paradise Islands but it always gets too complicated and since I'm not living there I tend to drift away from the initial motivation.
Anyway, what I'm getting round to is that of the The National Building Code of the Philippines (http://www.chanrobles.com/republicactno6541.htm).
For new designs and/or new constructions I understand it's still required to follow those written guidelines. A bit like our Building Regs.

I reckon that's probably a pretty good starting point.......well that's what I've been told.

Graham, I'm sure your experiences are much better than mine, but I wonder whether decent wood is still cheap these days. Most of the quality local wood seems to get directed to furniture. I don't know the facts to be honest just a general feeling.
I do think a wooden frame would need some regular maintenance

Anyone else feel this would would make an interesting thread?
I could create one and add these last few postings to it....
BBJ what do you think? Any ideas for a thread title?

[grahamw48]

You could call it 'Do good house designs grow on trees...or are they a rotten idea ? ' :biggrin:

[Michael Parnham]

Only just seen this Stewart, what an adventure, good luck! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

Step one:

Try to find out WHAT species your wood/lumber is...:Erm:

Some interesting links here:

http://www.idewood.com/index.php?pid=8
.
http://myphilippinelife.com/our-philippine-house-project-carpentry/

In the Phils I've built lots and lots of aviaries and cages, plus a decent sized shop, all from various kinds of lumber, but for my house project I chose reinforced concrete, and concrete blocks.

[Bluebirdjones]

Peter,
Yes, it might be worth developing as a thread..... if only to say "no, it doesn't work" at the end of the analysis, or "beware of these pitfalls" if it does turn out to be a viable option.

How about
Kit Houses - a viable option for the Philippines ?"

But I bow to thoughts of others on here.

[grahamw48]

It sounds interesting. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Arthur Little]

Guys (esp Imagine, Jake, Fred...)
I'm thinking about the idea of buying a kit house (timber construction) from a Malaysian, Aussie or other regional supplier, and then shipping in a container to the Philippines.

Any of you aware of others who've done the same/similar ?

Any pitfalls other than the obvious ? (customs duty, make sure wood is treated, excavate to get rid of termite nests)

I'm thinking something like this:
http://www.house-uk.co.uk/Lauri147.html
or
http://www.alternatedwellings.com.au/kornalla.asp
as an idea

:yeahthat:'s certainly an interesting post, Marc and ...


Probably ought to have its own dedicated thread as it's very interesting and could well develop over time.

... yes, :iagree: with Peter - it's definitely more than worthy of its own thread, IMHO!

[Arthur Little]

... yes, :iagree: with Peter - it's definitely more than worthy of its own thread, IMHO!

:yikes: ... Fred appears to have beaten you to it, I'm afraid!

[jake]

ground floor 60sqm, 1st floor 40 sqm, roof top 40 sqm,estimated 5 years to return the investment from rental, at investment of 1.6 million ,possible could exceed 1.6 million, but im happy with that,return income is based on renting all three floors, but it may make a difference running the roof top caffee ourselves, I would think if run well will exceed any rental incomeDepending on the finishing i reckon 1.6 to 1.8 million should be about right.


(Oops..Jake`s original post lost)

[jake]

Yep!!.. That's what I reckon. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

The above was not my reply to Stewart's post :Erm: Mods do you have any idea why that might have happened? The 'Yep!!' makes me think it might have something to do with Fred :wink:

Stewart,

Depending on the finishing, I reckon 1.6 to 1.8 million should be about right.

If you can get your initial investment back within 5 years....superb :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[fred]

The above was not my reply to Stewart's post :Erm: Mods do you have any idea why that might have happened? The 'Yep!!' makes me think it might have something to do with Fred :wink:

Stewart,

Depending on the finishing, I reckon 1.6 to 1.8 million should be about right.

If you can get your initial investment back within 5 years....superb :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Sorry!! I clicked Edit instead of Quote.. (dumb Mod!) Ive done this a lot in the past but usually correct the mistake before its noticed!!
I`ll fix it now though..

Edit: Oh Shiiittt..I cant!! Lost your original post.
Really sorry about that..
If you can remember what you posted just click edit and re post.. UGGHH!

[jake]

If you can remember what you posted just click edit and re post.. UGGHH!

Meh!!

It had something to do with crop rotation in the 14th century :Erm:
No problem Fred :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[fred]

Meh!!

It had something to do with crop rotation in the 14th century :Erm:


Yep!!.. That's what I reckon. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

in the beginning was our hollow blocker started a few months prior to start of project and completed today 4000 6 inch blocks and 700 4 inch blocks, all made to class A ,

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/t1.0-9/1560698_10203717982419352_3045064502989784853_n.jpg

[imagine]

the rear of our project before start of construction
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/t1.0-9/1238756_10203718373989141_3269717150878271044_n.jpg
view from the front through to back of project, the old is completely demolished,
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-9/10153827_10203724899992287_7205915786553601033_n.jpg

[imagine]

The Ritual. PADUGO, 1st day of start of project
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-9/10154472_10203718498032242_3819938563952234894_n.jpg

[Terpe]

You're very posh............we had only chicken :icon_lol:

[fred]

Just went to a friends project here and he has one of these on site..Made it himself and I wish I had one to grade sand for finishing cement render..
Unlike the video,his makes no noise at all.. Fine sand production is fast efficient and cheap.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV23KFc9w9k


Here`s a better one.. A lot quieter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=le-Nmg0q9jE

[gWaPito]

The Ritual. PADUGO, 1st day of start of project
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-9/10154472_10203718498032242_3819938563952234894_n.jpg
We had a pig with it's throat cut. They splashed blood over the clean white multi cab then proceeded to make a mess in my premises :Rasp::dohWTF! I didnt even know this was about to happen Then the local preist came along doin likewise with the holy water. I was half expecting Samatha Eggar to come flying in on her broomstick

[imagine]

You're very posh............we had only chicken :icon_lol:

guess we must be cos we also had 3 chickens plus the goat:biggrin:

[imagine]

We had a pig with it's throat cut. They splashed blood over the clean white multi cab then proceeded to make a mess in my premises :Rasp::dohWTF! I didnt even know this was about to happen Then the local preist came along doin likewise with the holy water. I was half expecting Samatha Eggar to come flying in on her broomstick

our pig is next , before the pouring of cement for posts:biggrin:

[imagine]

Just went to a friends project here and he has one of these on site..Made it himself and I wish I had one to grade sand for finishing cement render..
Unlike the video,his makes no noise at all.. Fine sand production is fast efficient and cheap.

my connection not good enough to play vids yet, but yes i get the idea , very good,
i will get a better look later:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[gWaPito]

our pig is next , before the pouring of cement for posts:biggrin:
All good fun Stewart:biggrin: I hope you're settling ok. You look happy enough in the pics :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[sheriel]

Stewart we have been following your Construction Project,what about exploring other finishes to the hollow block work externally,there most be alternative possibilities,to cement render,in this country we have seen lots of external finishes,maybe worth considering,your wife might help with sourcing them,Good Luck and thanks for the Photos .... :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

got our permission to pour the concrete for posts, by lunchtime we had our pig and blessed the posts with blood, then the pouring began:biggrin:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/t1.0-9/10174875_10203745846795944_5158583835467444602_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-9/1609767_10203745842995849_251959003742326923_n.jpg

[imagine]

the frontage of our store
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10203745701712317&set=a.10203745905957423&type=3&theater

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/t1.0-9/1012867_10203745694592139_2160134721413774198_n.jpg

[imagine]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-9/1471752_10203745701712317_4103939400260808071_n.jpg

[fred]

Crikey!! Was you a safety officer in the U.K??
I wouldn`t even know where I could buy that many hard hats here!!
My blokes all wear flip flops!!

[imagine]

Crikey!! Was you a safety officer in the U.K??
I wouldn`t even know where I could buy that many hard hats here!!
My blokes all wear flip flops!!

I bought them good quality hard hats, the cheap ones are poor quality, 26 hats all in all

green labourers, yellow skilled, blue foreman and my liaison officer, white me, Lolita, architect, and electric design engineer

[imagine]

and whatever happened to our pig :biggrin:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-9/10178009_10203745873076601_6288355104556215825_n.jpg

[imagine]

i bought a new portable welder for the construction, its made in austrailia, ( cigweld 130.170 inverter arc.) oddly it has a 3 pin 13 amp fused plug, identical to uk, now this welder is 20amp, but the type of welder it is makes it compatable to a 30 amp welder which means its light weight and no worries about the transformer on the power supply or causing problems with the stores near our construction,

the thing is ,,, the fuse keeps blowing,no 13 amp fuses here available, lucky i brought some from uk, dont ask why i did, must have had a second sight :icon_lol:

we contacted the hardwear store its a big store well known here, they say put a 20 amp fuse in it and they will take responsability if it gets damaged,

the only 20 amp 210 volt fuses are glass fuses but longer than the 13amp, i dont like the idea of this but i have adapted the plug to take the fuse, and will try 1st with a 15 amp fuse,
this welder cost 23,000 p thats with the discount, im wishing i had just bought a cheap 8,000 kamato instead, i didnt because im told they are cheap and unreliable:Erm: but so is the one i have.
i was thinking the safest way was to get a voltage regulater, but what size for a welder:Erm:

anyone any idea how to resolve this?

[Dedworth]

Dunno about the amps / voltage things Imagine but the fact that it has a UK Spec 13 amp plug on it might be cos the Aussies are selling the welder to Singapore & Malaysia which being common sense countries have UK plugs.

Have you tried contacting the manufacturer ?

[Trefor]

How can a 20A welder have a 13A supply? Does it have some kind of battery reserve?

[imagine]

Dunno about the amps / voltage things Imagine but the fact that it has a UK Spec 13 amp plug on it might be cos the Aussies are selling the welder to Singapore & Malaysia which being common sense countries have UK plugs.

Have you tried contacting the manufacturer ?

Our archtect, who helps us as he lives in Cagayan where the supplier is, spoke to them on my behalf. I had relayed to him that they should contact the manufacturer for advice. Now I don't know if they have, but we can't have a delay by returning the welder to them just now, for exchange, but merchant said they will take full responsibility for upgrading to a higher fuse. They suggest 20 amp, if the welder breaks because of this. They will replace or exchange. I've just been reading the manual, and the makers have email address so I'll try to contact myself that way and see what they say

[Terpe]

I think you need to share more info Stewart...
I'm not an electrician.
I do have a MIG welder with max output at 135 amps which works very happily from my domestic supply with a 13 a fused plug. It's good for steel up to 5mm thick max (although I've not welded 5mm thickness so far usually around 4mm max)

Output current on a welder is NOT equal to the input current.
A simple transformer-style welding unit converts the input voltage and current electricity into a high current and low voltage supply.

Just in simple terms remember that Power(Watts) = Current(Amps) x Voltage(Volts).

It's important to check the output ratings for different duty cycles and rest times. Just as example 60% means welding time is 6 minutes and rest time is 4 minutes.

Do you have a MIG welder or Stick (Arc) welder?
MIG welders don't generally draw as much power as most Arcs welders.

Here in UK that 135 amps is just about on the limit for plugging into domestic supply.

Just trying to help......

[stevewool]

Peter what do you have to weld around the house, you are not making knives forks and spoons are you :icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol:

[sheriel]

Stewart, I would have thought it was A Stick Welder, I saw many being used on Construction Sites in the Philippines. Welding using coated electrodes,1.5,2.00,2.5,3.00cm electrodes and even larger, the Fuse if in UK, we would safely upgrade fuse by wrapping fuse wire round blown fuse, maybe 20,30 amps,wire,and we have welded safely allday without damaging the welder,or supply, many times, on site and in workshops, I personally am a coded welder,is fuse wire available in hardware shops in the Philippines. Perhaps someone will know ......:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[sheriel]

Stewart, A cigweld ARC, it has to be a stick welder, just checked with a friend here, try the Fuse Wire and don't look at ark, you will not enjoy ARC eyes, it can be painful and in some cases result in Hospital Admission.

I saw Filipina Ladies in Cebu welding a steel Frame building [Mall of Asia] using stick welders, I met one on several occasions socially, she was an excellent welder, we have female welders here also, I have worked with them.

Good luck in sourcing the fuse wire, and good luck with your Project, I am green with envy, one day we might follow, we will see. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

Stewart, A cigweld ARC, it has to be a stick welder, just checked with a friend here, try the Fuse Wire and don't look at ark, you will not enjoy ARC eyes, it can be painful and in some cases result in Hospital Admission.

I saw Filipina Ladies in Cebu welding a steel Frame building [Mall of Asia] using stick welders,i met one on several occasions socially, she was an excellent welder, we have female welders here also, I have worked with them.

Good luck in sourcing the fuse wire, and good luck with your Project, I am green with envy, one day we might follow, we will see. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Thanks Sheriel.

Yes, its also a stick welder or rod welder I think it's called, that is ARC as I understand,, and this is how it is being used by my steel men. It is also capable of TIG welding if connected to gas bottle

[imagine]

Stewart, I would have thought it was A Stick Welder, I saw many being used on Construction Sites in the Philippines, Weding using coated electrodes, 1.5,2.00,2.5,3.00cm electrodes and even larger, the Fuse if in UK, we would safely upgrade fuse by wrapping fuse wire round blown fuse,maybe 20,30 amps,wire,and we have welded safely all day without damaging the welder, or supply, many times, on site and in workshops, I personally am a coded welder. Is fuse wire available in hardware shops in the Philippines? Perhaps someone will know ......:xxgrinning--00xx3:

Yes, electrode coated sticks :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Ok thanks for info about fuse, i was worried a 20 amp fuse might make it dangerous to user.

There is fuse wire here 15 and 20 amp but it is unlike what I can get in UK, here it is very thick diameter, I think probably fore a main fuse box rather than for appliances.

What I have found is 15 amp glass fuses for 220 volts, I think I can get 20amp the same they are slightly longer than the uk 13 amp fuse, so i have adapted the plug by cutting out some of the internal plastic which stops the fuse moving at each end, so now the longer fuse fits, we will try this when the next 13 amp fuse blows, then if the 15 amp blows too then upgrade to 20amp fuse

[imagine]

I think you need to share more info Stewart...
I'm not an electrician.
I do have a MIG welder with max output at 135 amps which works very happily from my domestic supply with a 13 a fused plug. It's good for steel up to 5mm thick max (although I've not welded 5mm thickness so far usually around 4mm max)

Output current on a welder is NOT equal to the input current.
A simple transformer-style welding unit converts the input voltage and current electricity into a high current and low voltage supply.

Just in simple terms remember that Power(Watts) = Current(Amps) x Voltage(Volts).

It's important to check the output ratings for different duty cycles and rest times. Just as example 60% means welding time is 6 minutes and rest time is 4 minutes.

Do you have a MIG welder or Stick (Arc) welder?
MIG welders don't generally draw as much power as most Arcs welders.

Here in UK that 135 amps is just about on the limit for plugging into domestic supply.

Just trying to help......

Thanks Peter, it is arc a stick welder, it is 20amp, equivalent to 30 amp welder as it has inverter, so uses less supply power

[sheriel]

Good morning in the Philippines, we are happy to be of assistance to you good luck from here. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Terpe]

Personally I'd be very wary about 'changing-up' the fused plug rating.
To go with a 20amp fuse I'd want to be very sure that the supply circuit (wires in the wall) is capable of handling the potential total power being pulled.

Is it the 170 model or the 130 model?

The 130 amp version should be perfectly fine with a 10amp fuse.
The 170 am version should be fine with a 15amp fuse

Stewart what are to trying to weld ? Maybe you're just trying to pull too much power.

Try welding at a lower current and see if that helps.

Is you input voltage OK? If it's dropping below 200 that might cause problems too.

Be cautious with 'power-pulling' to avoid damage to supply circuits or even worse damage to the inverter circuits.

[imagine]

Personally I'd be very wary about 'changing-up' the fused plug rating.
To go with a 20amp fuse I'd want to be very sure that the supply circuit (wires in the wall) is capable of handling the potential total power being pulled.

Is it the 170 model or the 130 model?

The 130 amp version should be perfectly fine with a 10amp fuse.
The 170 am version should be fine with a 15amp fuse

Stewart what are to trying to weld ? Maybe you're just trying to pull too much power.

Try welding at a lower current and see if that helps.

Is you input voltage OK? If it's dropping below 200 that might cause problems too.

Be cautious with 'power-pulling' to avoid damage to supply circuits or even worse damage to the inverter circuits.

130 model, steel rebar is being welded and a little on steel decking to pin them together not all the way on the seams, the thickest rebar is 20ml then 16ml and 10ml,

the welder can run ok for 4 or 5 days then blows the fuse, other times 1 day or 2 or 3,

as the welder plug wires are neutral , live and earth , I have made sure the 2 pin supply live is inline with the welders live, just incase that might be a problem,
I don't know what current setting they are using, the 2 steel men who are experienced welders I have just thought they should know what settings to use, well I hope they do:cwm25:

power supply here is renowned for fluctuation and this is what the supplier said, may be the cause and suggested a 20amp fuse , they were asked and they agreed to take responsibility if damage is done and will replace the unit,

[imagine]

We get a break this weekend, our forman will take the welder to be exchanged for a replacement,
meanwhile the project is growing fast, keeps me busy too, we employ 23 men on the site, I have many trips
banking and buying materials, wages etc to calculate, Lolita supplies food and snacks, drinks, and she makes a few peso from that. Every little helps. :biggrin: The original estimated 5 months start to completion, that has shrunk to start to finish 3 months.

https://scontent-b-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1.0-9/10341444_10203953266061296_4760086293655934382_n.jpg

one more floor to go after this, enginner inspecter says the building is strong and we could if we want add at least 2 more floors, :Erm: but then we would need an elevator :icon_lol:

[Terpe]

Looking good Stewart ......
BTW love the scaffold :biggrin:

[fred]

Stewart.. What are the dimensions of your posts and beams,(rebar plan) ,,,,size and quantity of re bar and ties...Also the size of re bar and quantity of 16mm matting.
If your plan is fully permitted then everything will be fine...If you want to go higher then you should have allowed for that in original plan.. Your municipal engineer can advise you..
Much depends on if your 1st floor slab is reinforced concrete etc etc.
All our rebar tires were tie wire.. Not sure why you need welder??

[imagine]

Stewart.. What are the dimensions of your posts and beams,the size and quantity of re bar and ties...Also the size of re bar and quantity of 16mm matting.
If your plan is fully permitted then everything will be fine...If you want to go higher then you should have allowed for that in original plan.. Your municipal engineer can advise you..
Much depends on if your 1st floor slab is reinforced concrete etc etc.

To be honest, I don't know the posts and beam dimensions, it was the Municipal Engineer who said it's strong for - and ready to extend to - 2 more floors. Permit is ready for 2 more floors.

The rebar for beams and posts and floor decking is 20 mm, there is 16 mm for vertical between hollow blocks and horizontal is 10 mm. Right now, without checking my receipts, I can't remember the quantities to date. Still more to get for the next floor too

[imagine]

Looking good Stewart ......
BTW love the scaffold :biggrin:

Nothing but the best :icon_lol: health and safety observed :Erm: coco lumber, well expensive too, I'm sure metal scaffolding would be cheaper if it could be got here

[fred]

To give you a rough idea.. Our units are good for 3/4 floors.. Posts 12 pcs 16mm,tied with 10 m rebar with 16 mm matting.. Like this..Finished posts are 40X40.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v724/fred42/post3_zpsbdea167a.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v724/fred42/posts1_zpsc7b74279.jpg
Any worries,just check with municipal engineer...

[sheriel]

Thank you for the photos of your new build project Stewart - exciting for you both. Look out Mr Tan, in the Philippines, next a Mall of Asia. Good luck Stewart, I hope the welder was OK, and didn't fuse your neighbours' supply. Change the welder, you say - is it troublesome? :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Michael Parnham]

Looking forward to seeing the finished product Stewart, you must be so excited. I bet you didn't think that your life in the Philippines would be this busy! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

To give you a rough idea.. Our units are good for 3/4 floors.. Posts 12 pcs 16mm,tied with 10 m rebar with 16 mm matting.. Like this..Finished posts are 40X40.
Any worries,just check with municipal engineer...

I will correct some of my above info,,
posts 20mm rebar, beams 20mm rebar, floor decking with double layer 2way 10mm rebar and concrete,
diameter of posts 40 x 40.tie wire size 16,

matting at base of post 20mm,

hollow block walls class A blocks, rebar vertical 12mm ,,, horizontal 10 mm

this is one rebar post coming up through the roof of the basement.

and the guy with yellow shirt is our municipal engineer
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/t1.0-9/10006983_10203793325742888_6352364833904249300_n.jpg

[imagine]

Just to give some kind of visual of the size and make up of the rebar posts and matting:-

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/t1.0-9/10251992_10203724995074664_1478755127715321886_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-9/1962666_10203725034915660_1666697434693027685_n.jpg

[imagine]

Thank you for the photos of your new build project Stewart - exciting for you both. Look out Mr Tan, in the Philippines, next a Mall of Asia. Good luck Stewart, I hope the welder was OK, and didn't fuse the your neighbours' supply. Change the welder you say - is it troublesome? :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Yes, we tried 15 and 20 amp fuses, but still blows the fuse, supplier says if fuse is blowing then the machine must be faulty, they will exchange for the same model this weekend,

This welder gives no problems to neighbours and means we don't have to pay for a street transformer or direct connection to a transformer

[imagine]

Looking forward to seeing the finished product Stewart, you must be so excited. I bet you didn't think that your life in the Philippines would be this busy!:xxgrinning--00xx3:

You know, I had this idea in my head that I was retired in Philippines :Erm: When we open our roof top cafe looks like I'll be working full time there. The project will finish July, but have to go to Manila in September, so I won't open the cafe until xmas or new year, but the second floor office spaces should be rented out before then. Already we have a guy wants to rent ground floor for a convenience store,

He wants a 5 year contract, and will pay and install his own air con and floor tiles, will furnish all at his expenses, but he is offering lower than I had visualised. I wanted top 35 thou a month, with a bottom line of 30 thou, he wishes to rent for 20 thou taking into account what he will do at his expense, I haven't settled the price yet. Time to calculate and get advice. Maybe 25 thou would be good. After all, there's the next floor up to rent too, and our roof top cafe.

[Terpe]

Nice project Stewart......glad to learn you're wife's keeping you busy. :icon_lol:

Life is good...enjoy :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

Nice project Stewart......glad to learn you're wife's keeping you busy. :icon_lol:

Life is good...enjoy :xxgrinning--00xx3:

I never thought I would be this busy :icon_lol:

[fred]

Stewart.. If the Municipal engineer produced the plans then he will be the most qualified to advise about extra floors etc.. That`s his job.
Looks as though you have used less rebar than us but as its 20mm grade perhaps that compensates for your particular design??
I`m no engineer and cannot advise on structural integrity.
I doubt very much that a municipal engineer will sign anything substandard or not issue you future permits to go upwards one day...(if initial plans allow)
Cheers,
Fred.

[jake]

you know i had this idea in my head that i was retired in philippines,:Erm: when we open our roof top caffe looks like il be working full time there, the project will finish july, but have to go to manila in september so i wont open the caffe untill xmas or new year, but the second floor office spaces should be rented out before then, already we have a guy wants to rent ground floor for a convenience store,
he wants 5 year contract, and will pay and install his own air con and floor tiles ,will furnish all at his expense, but he is offering lower than i had visualised, i wanted top 35 thou a month, with a bottom line of 30 thou, he wishes to rent for 20 thou taking into account what he will do at his expense, i havent settled the price yet, time to calculate and get advise, maybe 25 thou would be good,after all theres the next floor up to rent too, and our roof top caffe

If you can get 25k a month i would go for it :xxgrinning--00xx3:
How much per sqm does land in your street cost?

I noticed that the big bosses are the only ones wearing hard hats in the pictures :icon_lol:

[imagine]

Stewart.. If the Municipal engineer produced the plans then he will be the most qualified to advise about extra floors etc.. That`s his job.
Looks as though you have used less rebar than us but as its 20mm grade perhaps that compensates for your particular design??
I`m no engineer and cannot advise on structural integrity.
I doubt very much that a municipal engineer will sign anything substandard or not issue you future permits to go upwards one day...(if initial plans allow)
Cheers,
Fred.

Also our architect has great experience in large strong buildings, he was also one of the architects for the new Laguindingan Airport. Our Municipal Engineer was very impressed with the structure and strength of the building.

I'm no engineer myself, but having worked in the building trade all my life, I am confident in the work and design and structure of our building. I have seen here how different construction can be compared to UK. I've seen many poor standard buildings, but I'm getting exactly what I required from all those involved, at a higher initial cost but I know our building will stand the test of time. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Yes, I see from your photos the design and size of rebar differ, but though your posts seem closer together its possible overall strength of the buildings are the same,

The land our posts are set is different too, which may account for any differences :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[fred]

Stew.. The only reason those posts look so close together is because that's our upstairs hallway..

From what I have seen over recent years here, the building standards are good if the plans are adhered to to the letter.. That's why I don't trust contractors that like to cut costs at my expense!

Our last set of plans come with a complete structural integrity report..Must be 50 pages.. I think it's a new requirement here due to the earthquakes we've recently experienced..

We had just finished the first floor slab here when the 7.5 hit us.. Our workers said the whole building rock 'n' rolled for about one minute.. Not a single crack..Whew, that was a scary minute!!


The land our posts are set is different too, which may account for any differences http://filipinaroses.com/images/smilies/xxgrinning-smiley-00xx3.gif

I have a feeling that there are different options of steel rebar configurations available to architects and engineers depending on the building type etc..

I find it interesting..

[imagine]

I've yet to feel an earthquake, I think I will head for the rest room when I do. :icon_lol:

[Michael Parnham]

I've yet to feel an earthquake, I think I will head for the rest room when I do. :icon_lol:

I've experienced an earthquake Stewart, it's quite frightening and whatever you do make for an open space, if you make for the rest room it could be the last place you'll ever see! :NoNo:

[imagine]

I've experienced an earthquake Stewart, it's quite frightening and whatever you do make for an open space, if you make for the rest room it could be the last place you'll ever see! :NoNo:

It's not that I think it will be safe in the rest room, I think I'll probably shyt myself :action-smiley-081::icon_lol::icon_lol:

[sheriel]

Stewart, talking of shyting yourself, how's the tummy? In the Philippines, it took us many times by surprise and many of my friends here, galloping diarrhoea, to put it mildly! :cwm24:

[imagine]

Stewart, talking of shyting yourself, how's the tummy? In the Philippines, it took us many times by surprise and many of my friends here, galloping diarrhoea, to put it mildly! :cwm24:

Haven't had that problem here,

But the first 3 months in Manila was hard adjusting to different food, and I soon got fed up of Jolllibee and Chow King :icon_lol:

[imagine]

It's coming on well, but we have fired the work team :cwm25: so a week's rest until the new team arrives. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/t1.0-9/10414644_10204219546678145_5805808981988868788_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/t1.0-9/10304332_10204219558158432_1564235183788697200_n.jpg

[fred]

its comming on well, but we have fired the work team :cwm25: so a week's rest until the new team arrives. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Why?? What did they do?..Or should I say didn't they do!! :icon_lol:

Hope you got all your hard hats back!!

[SimonH]

Why?? What did they do? ..Or should I say didn't they do!! :icon_lol:

Hope you got all your hard hats back!!


:yeahthat: :Erm:

[imagine]

Why?? What did they do?..Or should I say didn't they do!! :icon_lol:

Hope you got all your hard hats back!!

Sorry Fred , I've only just seen I never answered! Yes, the old team, stealing, lying, and not very good with concrete floors lol

[imagine]

27th August, our construction project:


https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10204844681986137&l=8748138826073750391


https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10204844681986137&set=vb.1511693085&type=3&theater

[imagine]

Can't get facebook video to show, only links are posting :Erm:

[KeithD]

Can't get facebook video to show, only links are posting :Erm:

FB doesn't let people display videos outside of FB :smile:

[imagine]

FB doesn't let people display videos outside of FB :smile:

Ok, thanks boss. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[fred]

Thanks for the vid Imagine...Looks like you're up to your neck in it!!
How long ago did you take the video?
BTW..Do you really need to stand so close to the edge?? Giving me vertigo!

[imagine]

Thanks for the vid Imagine...Looks like you'r e up to your neck in it!!
How long ago did you take the video?
BTW..Do you really need to stand so close to the edge?? Giving me vertigo!

Spent a large part of my life running around roof tops, I'm quite comfortable up on the roof :icon_lol:

Video taken on 27th Aug :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

Almost finished ... phew! Here's a few photos:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/p180x540/1513723_10205582191423412_7301742532312192921_n.jpg?oh=c0e713f92029e10511fa8de03c595f6b&oe=54D9A63B&__gda__=1427047735_b5820f298d4db1bf5fbcba7cb55f554a
https://scontent-a-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/1725244_10205582188383336_3568672343762046796_n.jpg?oh=0653525bd0c13e58f4aaa7089e91d1bb&oe=54D50379
https://scontent-b-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/12809_10205582181623167_5220318177778572700_n.jpg?oh=49280d9006ffaee88462ed666936f5fb&oe=5505942B
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10629605_10205582217704069_8772485073051512233_n.jpg?oh=6ff3c94ef5a817bc107c86fe84a2f1f0&oe=5502DB87&__gda__=1426587346_304c4a961d739d1a6f09054e2dd37864

[imagine]

https://scontent-b-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/12809_10205582181623167_5220318177778572700_n.jpg?oh=49280d9006ffaee88462ed666936f5fb&oe=5505942B

[fred]

Very nice!!
I wish you luck with your new venture. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

Very nice!!
I wish you luck with your new venture. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Thanks Fred, how is your construction coming along?

[fred]

Thanks Fred, how is your construction coming along?

The workers go back to Manila on Sunday.. Good nosh up and a few gallons of Tuba for them tomorrow.. Just got to buy things like TV`s, A/C`s etc.

No more building projects for me for a couple of years..I've had enough! :Cuckoo:

[Terpe]

Looks really nice Stewart :xxgrinning--00xx3:
Well done. No easy task as I'm sure you discovered.

Hope it all works out for you both :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Arthur Little]

Almost finished ... phew! Here's a few photos:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/p180x540/1513723_10205582191423412_7301742532312192921_n.jpg?oh=c0e713f92029e10511fa8de03c595f6b&oe=54D9A63B&__gda__=1427047735_b5820f298d4db1bf5fbcba7cb55f554a
https://scontent-a-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/1725244_10205582188383336_3568672343762046796_n.jpg?oh=0653525bd0c13e58f4aaa7089e91d1bb&oe=54D50379
https://scontent-b-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/12809_10205582181623167_5220318177778572700_n.jpg?oh=49280d9006ffaee88462ed666936f5fb&oe=5505942B
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10629605_10205582217704069_8772485073051512233_n.jpg?oh=6ff3c94ef5a817bc107c86fe84a2f1f0&oe=5502DB87&__gda__=1426587346_304c4a961d739d1a6f09054e2dd37864

Stewart ... you've done a really GREAT job there. :yeahthat:

You and Lolita ought to be very proud of yourselves!! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

The workers go back to Manila on Sunday.. Good nosh up and a few gallons of Tuba for them tomorrow.. Just got to buy things like TV`s, A/C`s etc.

No more building projects for me for a couple of years..I've had enough! :Cuckoo:

Enough for me too, far too stressful and I'm supposed to be early retired! :icon_lol::olddude:

[imagine]

Looks really nice Stewart :xxgrinning--00xx3:
Well done. No easy task as I'm sure you discovered.

Hope it all works out for you both :xxgrinning--00xx3:

True, no easy task at all, the standard of work is much lower than UK. It means a lot of :xxaction-smiley-047 the men into shape to do the work as I wanted it, and also a lot of compromise on my part, but the results are looking good,

Come up to Malaybalay sometime when you are settled - meet my gem and tour our building - you would be very welcome :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

Stewart ... you've done a really GREAT job there. :yeahthat:

You and Lolita ought to be very proud of yourselves!! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Thank you Arthur :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Michael Parnham]

27th August, our construction project:


https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10204844681986137&l=8748138826073750391


https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10204844681986137&set=vb.1511693085&type=3&theater

Just come across this video Stewart, everyone looks busy :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Michael Parnham]

Almost finished ... phew! Here's a few photos:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/p180x540/1513723_10205582191423412_7301742532312192921_n.jpg?oh=c0e713f92029e10511fa8de03c595f6b&oe=54D9A63B&__gda__=1427047735_b5820f298d4db1bf5fbcba7cb55f554a
https://scontent-a-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/1725244_10205582188383336_3568672343762046796_n.jpg?oh=0653525bd0c13e58f4aaa7089e91d1bb&oe=54D50379
https://scontent-b-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/12809_10205582181623167_5220318177778572700_n.jpg?oh=49280d9006ffaee88462ed666936f5fb&oe=5505942B
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10629605_10205582217704069_8772485073051512233_n.jpg?oh=6ff3c94ef5a817bc107c86fe84a2f1f0&oe=5502DB87&__gda__=1426587346_304c4a961d739d1a6f09054e2dd37864

Wow, very posh Stewart, job well done! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

Wow, very posh Stewart, job well done! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Thanks Michael :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

Just come across this video Stewart, everyone looks busy :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Oh yeah, the vids are right to left - mixed up recording - like mirror image :icon_lol:

[Terpe]

.....
Come up to Malaybalay sometime when you are settled - meet my gem and tour our building - you would be very welcome :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Thanks for the invite Stewart :xxgrinning--00xx3:
We'll make it once we're a bit more settled. It's taking longer than I thought to sort everything out properly.
I must be getting old, just can't maintain much of a work rate in this heat :olddude:

By the way I managed to get hold of the TV co-ax connector at a cost of P32
I've a feeling my wife is keen to take up Cable TV now.......:icon_lol:

[imagine]

Thanks for the invite Stewart :xxgrinning--00xx3:
We'll make it once we're a bit more settled. It's taking longer than I thought to sort everything out properly.
I must be getting old, just can't maintain much of a work rate in this heat :olddude:

By the way I managed to get hold of the TV co-ax connector at a cost of P32

I've a feeling my wife is keen to take up cable TV now.......:icon_lol:

Yes the heat tires me, takes me longer to do work and I work less hours :biggrin:

At least with Cable there may be a deal for internet and Cable TV together

[Michael Parnham]

yes the heat tires me, takes me longer to do work and i work less hours :biggrin:

at least with cable there may be a deal for internet and cable tv together

Smart offer best deal on cable TV/ Internet (unlimited) p1000 per month (may be a little more now) never had a problem Stewart, good luck!:xxgrinning--00xx3: