Our new home

[stevewool]

Hi boys and girls,
We have been building our new home over in Marikina.

It's been an ongoing project now since last year. Here are some pictures I hope you'll like:

http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/10488148_896401367043428_8101911381104159077_n_zpsed20365b.jpg.html?sort=3&o=41

http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/10514644_905591252791106_425275567182606117_n_zpsf6cefe46.jpg.html?sort=3&o=39

http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/tatay9_zps8e1dc4fb.jpg.html?sort=3&o=6

http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/tatay5_zps8f3c9bd6.jpg.html?sort=3&o=9

http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/tatay3_zpsb7435973.jpg.html?sort=3&o=11

Just a few from when it started - to how it looks now

[mikek1]

Hi Steve,

Looks like your new house is coming along fine. We had a house built on a plot in a sub division. Our relative oversaw all the building work as it was being erected. The contractor was recommended by the owner of the land for the sub division. The owner of the sub division had their house built by the same contractor so we knew there would be no problems. We held back the last 10% of the final cost until we arrived in the Philippines to inspect the work.

We were so happy with the house we bought the plot next door so that if ever we wanted to increase the size of the house we were ready.

After 6 years we have decided to spend some money on the house and make the interior more like UK houses. The problem with this is finding builders (in the Provinces) that are knowledgeable with modern processes and materials.

To give you some examples:

a) Our ceilings were constructed with plywood (?) that warp with the constant change in temperature. We asked the builder about using Gypsum plasterboard. At the time of construction they had no knowledge of this material.

b) Our kitchen wall smelt damp. When we looked for the cause we knew that the wall was 'added' to an existing boundary wall. Even though this was acceptable, no damp proofing was used. The builder then painted the outside wall with a damp proof paint. However, we doubt this will completely solve the problem.

c) The bedroom has fitted wardrobes. These are well-constructed, except when you slide the doors back they are very noisy and do not open easily. You would have thought they would have used some kind of rail to ease the opening of the doors.

d) The kitchen units were adequate. However, the hinges used to open and close the doors were of very poor quality and held on by small screws which are coming loose.

e) The most laughable item was that when we noticed the rain water on the bedroom outside balcony was not going anywhere and we discovered that they had fitted a 'u' pipe so the water did not travel downwards!

f) ALL the plumbing and faucet fittings - without exception - are of very ,very poor quality. We had to spend a small fortune replacing all the taps and shower fittings. Our en suite bedroom needed 20,000 pesos for the fittings. When we came to use the new fittings, there was hardly any water pressure! WE are solving the problem by having a separate tank and pump.

We were thinking of doing away with the bath and having a wet room. The only problem is, where do we find anyone with the knowledge and skill to install the plumbing, erect a stud wall, and tile the unit to a high standard?
We would also like to have a supply of hot water to the whole house. At present, 3 bathrooms have electric showers which are not very good. We would also like hot water for the kitchen. There are immersion heaters in the Philippines but where would you find someone with the knowledge to pipe hot water to the whole house?

Our house is wired up for cable TV. Because we only use the house for 3/6 weeks a year, we decided to have a conventional aerial rather than pay for a yearly subscription for cable TV. When we saw the way the aerial was fitted we could not believe that someone would fit it on the ground with about 5 meters of cable running into the house !!

I wish you all the best in finishing your house, but please let me know how you intend to get by some of the problems we have encountered.

[stevewool]

Hi there. Well, I am going to try and do as much work as possible, myself. I have done a lot of work on my house here in England, and though it may be hard to do the same over there, I am in no rush.

There is still lots to do on the house to make it our own. All of the upstairs will be done by me and Ems, dry walls and the wet room too. Maybe lots of hair-pulling times ahead, but it should keep me busy.

[joebloggs]

Looking good Steve! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

Thanks Joe, we are so pleased so far.

[stevewool]

http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10991078_10206119531375121_2358307452635169821_n_zpsd77ae84b.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10991078_10206119531375121_2358307452635169821_n_zpsd77ae84b.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10968508_10206119530295094_6495949027256783184_n_zps47cd9e8f.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10968508_10206119530295094_6495949027256783184_n_zps47cd9e8f.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10980719_10206119530495099_5272975364456502543_n_zps67c6e2d8.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10980719_10206119530495099_5272975364456502543_n_zps67c6e2d8.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10968386_10206103203726940_6015062904830151398_n8_zps777ddeb1.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10968386_10206103203726940_6015062904830151398_n8_zps777ddeb1.jpg.html)

some other pictures, getting there

[Michael Parnham]

Hi Steve,

Looks like your new house is coming along fine. We had a house built on a plot in a sub division. Our relative oversaw all the building work as it was being erected. The contractor was recommended by the owner of the land for the sub division. The owner of the sub division had their house built by the same contractor so we knew there would be no problems. We held back the last 10% of the final cost until we arrived in the Philippines to inspect the work.

We were so happy with the house we bought the plot next door so that if ever we wanted to increase the size of the house we were ready.

After 6 years we have decided to spend some money on the house and make the interior more like UK houses. The problem with this is finding builders (in the Provinces) that are knowledgeable with modern processes and materials.

To give you some examples:

a) Our ceilings were constructed with plywood (?) that warp with the constant change in temperature. We asked the builder about using Gypsum plasterboard. At the time of construction they had no knowledge of this material.

b) Our kitchen wall smelt damp. When we looked for the cause we knew that the wall was 'added' to an existing boundary wall. Even though this was acceptable, no damp proofing was used. The builder then painted the outside wall with a damp proof paint. However, we doubt this will completely solve the problem.

c) The bedroom has fitted wardrobes. These are well-constructed, except when you slide the doors back they are very noisy and do not open easily. You would have thought they would have used some kind of rail to ease the opening of the doors.

d) The kitchen units were adequate. However, the hinges used to open and close the doors were of very poor quality and held on by small screws which are coming loose.

e) The most laughable item was that when we noticed the rain water on the bedroom outside balcony was not going anywhere and we discovered that they had fitted a 'u' pipe so the water did not travel downwards!

f) ALL the plumbing and faucet fittings - without exception - are of very ,very poor quality. We had to spend a small fortune replacing all the taps and shower fittings. Our en suite bedroom needed 20,000 pesos for the fittings. When we came to use the new fittings, there was hardly any water pressure! WE are solving the problem by having a separate tank and pump.

We were thinking of doing away with the bath and having a wet room. The only problem is, where do we find anyone with the knowledge and skill to install the plumbing, erect a stud wall, and tile the unit to a high standard?
We would also like to have a supply of hot water to the whole house. At present, 3 bathrooms have electric showers which are not very good. We would also like hot water for the kitchen. There are immersion heaters in the Philippines but where would you find someone with the knowledge to pipe hot water to the whole house?

Our house is wired up for cable TV. Because we only use the house for 3/6 weeks a year, we decided to have a conventional aerial rather than pay for a yearly subscription for cable TV. When we saw the way the aerial was fitted we could not believe that someone would fit it on the ground with about 5 meters of cable running into the house !!

I wish you all the best in finishing your house, but please let me know how you intend to get by some of the problems we have encountered.

Typical! :NoNo:

[stevewool]

Mikek1, all the problems you have mentioned can be solved.
Take each room one at a time - that way you know it's done the way you'd like it!

Kitchen units are something I can do myself, I'm even thinking of taking all the hinges we use here over there and a router to make all the holes.

I am looking forward to getting back to making things and that will keep me busy, but also Em's father is a very handy man to have around.

Our builders are doing a great job up to now, and if all goes well, I do intend to give them other work and to keep their numbers on hand too.

[fred]

a) Our ceilings were constructed with plywood (?) that warp with the constant change in temperature. We asked the builder about using Gypsum plasterboard. At the time of construction they had no knowledge of this material.

The gypsum here has no recess on the long edges for tape unfortunately..Filipino`s would have no problem putting the stuff up,but they would have to be shown.. You see it used a lot in shopping malls etc.. Everything they need is widely available here including drywall screws,reinforced tape and joint compound.
We just use hardiflex as it is water resistant and fireproof.. They put that up with no issues.


d) The kitchen units were adequate. However, the hinges used to open and close the doors were of very poor quality and held on by small screws which are coming loose.

We have ours made at our local sawmill joiners..The timber is all kiln dried..Again,no problems getting adjustable hinges these days..All available now.


b) Our kitchen wall smelt damp. When we looked for the cause we knew that the wall was 'added' to an existing boundary wall. Even though this was acceptable, no damp proofing was used. The builder then painted the outside wall with a damp proof paint. However, we doubt this will completely solve the problem.

If the exterior wall is on the boundry line its called a "fire wall" here.. You cant put windows,doors or anything in it.
There is a cement waterproofing product here call "Sahara" you put it with the render mix and it works.
Problem is unless you tell them to put on an inch+1/2 of render they do not.. Usually 1/2" only.


) ALL the plumbing and faucet fittings - without exception - are of very ,very poor quality. We had to spend a small fortune replacing all the taps and shower fittings. Our en suite bedroom needed 20,000 pesos for the fittings. When we came to use the new fittings, there was hardly any water pressure! WE are solving the problem by having a separate tank and pump.

Corrosion is a big issue here with taps, showers, sinks etc..
These days we only use nylon faucets, sinks, etc.
The best we have found are "Watertek" products.
Last years..No corrosion!
You can get non-corrosive pressure tanks here now..Not cheap though. (but worth every Peso)

Best not to use a contractor.
They don't care about what materials they use because it comes out of their lump!

[Michael Parnham]

The gypsum here has no recess on the long edges for tape unfortunately..Filipino`s would have no problem putting the stuff up,but they would have to be shown.. You see it used a lot in shopping malls etc.. Everthing they need is widely available here including drywall screws,reinforced tape and joint compound.
We just use hardiflex as it is water resistant and fireproof.. They put that up with no issues.



We have ours made at our local sawmill joiners..The timber is all kiln dried..Again,no problems getting adjustable hinges these days..All available now.



If the exterior wall is on the boundry line its called a "fire wall" here.. You cant put windows,doors or anything in it.
There is a cement waterproofing product here call "Sahara" you put it with the render mix and it works.
Problem is unless you tell them to put on an inch+1/2 of render they do not.. Usually 1/2" only.



Corrosion is a big issue here with taps, showers, sinks etc..
These days we only use nylon faucets, sinks, etc.
The best we have found are "Watertek" products.
Last years..No corrosion!
You can get non-corrosive pressure tanks here now..Not cheap though. (but worth every Peso)

Best not to use a contractor.
They don't care about what materials they use because it comes out of their lump!

A number of good tips there Fred! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

931293139314931593169317931893199320

Some more pictures came my way today.

This building project is going very, very fast.

The first floor and inside the ground floor was started 2/2/2015. It's amazing what can be done with the right people, the right plans and the right way of doing it, plus money helps too

[fred]

:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Terpe]

931293139314931593169317931893199320

Some more pictures came my way today.

This building project is going very, very fast.

The first floor and inside the ground floor was started 2/2/2015. It's amazing what can be done with the right people, the right plans and the right way of doing it, plus money helps too

Steve, I couldn't see your photos so I tweaked them to post here. Hope it's OK for you?

It just makes it easier for all forumers to see your photo's

http://filipinaroses.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9312&d=1424195384

http://filipinaroses.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9313&d=1424195413

http://filipinaroses.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9314&d=1424195431

http://filipinaroses.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9315&d=1424195455

http://filipinaroses.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9316&d=1424195481

http://filipinaroses.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9317&d=1424195501

http://filipinaroses.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9318&d=1424195522

http://filipinaroses.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9319&d=1424195551

http://filipinaroses.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=9320&d=1424195573

[Terpe]

Looks like a good job getting done there Steve. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Andrew Chunis]

Awesome :)

[stevewool]

Thanks Peter, I must still be doing something wrong when adding them on here. Fred showed me once, but like most things in my life, I will have to be shown again.

We are very pleased so far with what is happening to the house.

[stevewool]

Some more pictures ...

http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/photo.php_zpsdcb722aj.jpg
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/photo.php_zpsdcb722aj.jpg

[stevewool]

Here is another one ...

http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11026708_10206137014132609_1270266181_n_zpsu4setpao.jpg.html]
[IMG]http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11026708_10206137014132609_1270266181_n_zpsu4setpao.jpg

[stevewool]

I have the hang of this, I shall try two ..

http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11015777_10206137012052557_1301201993_n_zpsnndcvapt.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11015777_10206137012052557_1301201993_n_zpsnndcvapt.jpg.html)

http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11020450_10206137015412641_2104519724_n_zpsnsjprpxv.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11020450_10206137015412641_2104519724_n_zpsnsjprpxv.jpg.html)

http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11006211_10206137012812576_1303685388_n_zpsnbtb0wfw.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11006211_10206137012812576_1303685388_n_zpsnbtb0wfw.jpg.html)

[SimonH]

Progressing nicely Steve :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

Ok, I lied - there was three. Here are the rest ...

http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11006123_10206137009452492_1015180407_n_zps5mlevkha.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11006123_10206137009452492_1015180407_n_zps5mlevkha.jpg.html)

http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11004257_10206137010332514_1138071608_n_zpstudjmhil.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11004257_10206137010332514_1138071608_n_zpstudjmhil.jpg.html)

[stevewool]

Progressing nicely Steve :xxgrinning--00xx3:

What? Me putting pictures on here Simon? :icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol:

[stevewool]

Thanks Simon, we are pleased with what is happening. Just wish we could pop over there, see things for ourselves and make a few changes here and there, but we can't.

Maybe in a few months time, a very quick visit. But it's too far to go for 1 week. Plus the cost too, I'd rather spend that on the house!

[SimonH]

What? Me putting pictures on here Simon? :icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol:


Yeah, that as well :icon_lol:

[stevewool]

Just 24 days to get from this ...

http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/DSC_8466_zpsd23939a6.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/DSC_8466_zpsd23939a6.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/photo.php_zpsdcb722aj.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/photo.php_zpsdcb722aj.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10639520_10206083611117137_466238951354608224_n_zps83985373.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10639520_10206083611117137_466238951354608224_n_zps83985373.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10994766_10206137008412466_1582794883_n_zpskv6cdo1m.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10994766_10206137008412466_1582794883_n_zpskv6cdo1m.jpg.html)

... to this. :yeahthat:

[stevewool]

WARNING, WARNING, WARNING. :yikes:!
More boring pictures to follow soon.
WARNING, WARNING, WARNING :omg:!

[Michael Parnham]

WARNING, WARNING, WARNING.:yikes:!
More boring pictures to follow soon.
WARNING, WARNING, WARNING. :omg:!

You still make me smile Steve. :wink:

[Ako Si Jamie]

Nothing boring about those pics Steve. Interesting more like. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[lordna]

WARNING, WARNING, WARNING.:yikes:!
More boring pictures to follow soon.
WARNING, WARNING, WARNING. :omg:!

Not at all boring! Actually, I find it very interesting to see how things are progressing on your house build.

[stevewool]

Thanks boys, and thankyou for the rep too. Here they are:




[IMG]http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10399429_10206275981926287_3173455779164737073_n_zpsasgc0izo.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10399429_10206275981926287_3173455779164737073_n_zpsasgc0izo.jpg.html)





[IMG]http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10363610_10206275983086316_544751832137087821_n_zpslp1naviy.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10363610_10206275983086316_544751832137087821_n_zpslp1naviy.jpg.html)




[IMG]http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10689_10206275983246320_1490703392688783958_n_zps5bb217ef.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10689_10206275983246320_1490703392688783958_n_zps5bb217ef.jpg.html)





[IMG]http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11015937_10206275982246295_8080614856805035549_n_zpsjpnkdbq6.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11015937_10206275982246295_8080614856805035549_n_zpsjpnkdbq6.jpg.html)




[IMG]http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11043063_10206275982486301_5191283970070069283_n_zpswddawimn.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11043063_10206275982486301_5191283970070069283_n_zpswddawimn.jpg.html)




[IMG]http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11044640_10206275982206294_7978854266907129439_n_zpsbamb1rdr.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11044640_10206275982206294_7978854266907129439_n_zpsbamb1rdr.jpg.html)



[IMG]http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11043154_10206275983286321_2051387251473071557_n_zpsx9at2rw2.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11043154_10206275983286321_2051387251473071557_n_zpsx9at2rw2.jpg.html)




[IMG]http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10984265_10206275982606304_8312428639781140797_n_zpsjwzkf4sj.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10984265_10206275982606304_8312428639781140797_n_zpsjwzkf4sj.jpg.html)




[IMG]http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11043035_10206275982406299_4247996679827135673_n_zpsawazdojc.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11043035_10206275982406299_4247996679827135673_n_zpsawazdojc.jpg.html)

[stevewool]

As you can see, the downstairs is coming on grand, the shower room being tiled and the walls are getting there first coat. The roof well, :anerikke: that's being poured soon too, but all in all it's going up fine!
Windows are being made on site soon.

[andy222]

Looking good, Steve! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[fred]

Steve.. MAKE SURE they add Sahara water proofer to the roof slab mix..
Those roof slabs do become porous after a couple of years without it and all those lovely hanging ceilings of yours will have to be replaced.

[stevewool]

Thanks Fred; will tell Em's dad he must insist on this! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Michael Parnham]

As you can see, the downstairs is coming on grand, the shower room being tiled and the walls are getting there first coat. The roof well, :anerikke: that's being poured soon too, but all in all it's going up fine!
Windows are being made on site soon.

Well done Steve! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

Thankyou Michael, and thanks for the rep too. Hopefully the next pictures will be the finished project :biggrin:

[Terpe]

It's amazing how your project is progressing :xxgrinning--00xx3:
Well done

[stevewool]

More pictures boys

http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10995567_10206324042527772_8794691256372600930_n_zpsgqznl117.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10995567_10206324042527772_8794691256372600930_n_zpsgqznl117.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11053204_10206324042727777_6496843512060951794_n_zpshygazu7s.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11053204_10206324042727777_6496843512060951794_n_zpshygazu7s.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11060297_10206324042687776_5765077691910742930_n_zpsk5xi0nkl.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11060297_10206324042687776_5765077691910742930_n_zpsk5xi0nkl.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11046614_10206324042607774_196713265408905162_n_zps0mrfhynu.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11046614_10206324042607774_196713265408905162_n_zps0mrfhynu.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11046306_10206324042487771_2395858306685161575_n_zpspop9yrlx.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11046306_10206324042487771_2395858306685161575_n_zpspop9yrlx.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11029548_10206324042447770_3124212670961698588_n_zpsrelrpnuh.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11029548_10206324042447770_3124212670961698588_n_zpsrelrpnuh.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11008826_10206324042367768_1188479932677424805_n_zpsjquuqyir.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11008826_10206324042367768_1188479932677424805_n_zpsjquuqyir.jpg.html)

We are both pleased with what is happening so far. :smile:

[Michael Parnham]

More pictures boys

http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/10995567_10206324042527772_8794691256372600930_n_zpsgqznl117.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/10995567_10206324042527772_8794691256372600930_n_zpsgqznl117.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11053204_10206324042727777_6496843512060951794_n_zpshygazu7s.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11053204_10206324042727777_6496843512060951794_n_zpshygazu7s.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11060297_10206324042687776_5765077691910742930_n_zpsk5xi0nkl.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11060297_10206324042687776_5765077691910742930_n_zpsk5xi0nkl.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11046614_10206324042607774_196713265408905162_n_zps0mrfhynu.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11046614_10206324042607774_196713265408905162_n_zps0mrfhynu.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11046306_10206324042487771_2395858306685161575_n_zpspop9yrlx.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11046306_10206324042487771_2395858306685161575_n_zpspop9yrlx.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11029548_10206324042447770_3124212670961698588_n_zpsrelrpnuh.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11029548_10206324042447770_3124212670961698588_n_zpsrelrpnuh.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11008826_10206324042367768_1188479932677424805_n_zpsjquuqyir.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11008826_10206324042367768_1188479932677424805_n_zpsjquuqyir.jpg.html)

We are both pleased with what is happening so far. :smile:

Beginning to take shape now! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

some more pictures, tiles are going down and the side and back windows are being replaced with new and all windows will look the same too,
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11081740_10206306464528763_2109474559_n_zps88azqm2g.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11081740_10206306464528763_2109474559_n_zps88azqm2g.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11081712_10206306465288782_242028515_n_zpswucu28go.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11081712_10206306465288782_242028515_n_zpswucu28go.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11082844_10206306462048701_451395756_n_zpspxq4xup5.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11082844_10206306462048701_451395756_n_zpspxq4xup5.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11081593_10206306458048601_840222777_n_zpssbh52ume.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11081593_10206306458048601_840222777_n_zpssbh52ume.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11073385_10206306468088852_308954382_n_zpsinaeljxw.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11073385_10206306468088852_308954382_n_zpsinaeljxw.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11077690_10206306460528663_266466713_n_zpsrfwacpck.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11077690_10206306460528663_266466713_n_zpsrfwacpck.jpg.html)
http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo208/woolleybooby23/house/11072415_10206306466808820_666911171_n_zpspbxdbm5x.jpg (http://s376.photobucket.com/user/woolleybooby23/media/house/11072415_10206306466808820_666911171_n_zpspbxdbm5x.jpg.html)

[imagine]

It's looking good Steve! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

Thanks Stewart

[Longweekend]

Steve, which way are you having the light switches fitted, local or UK?...:Erm:

[Arthur Little]

It's looking good Steve! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Yep ... :iagree:!

[Michael Parnham]

Very nice! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

Steve, which way are you having the light switches fitted, local or UK?...:Erm:

I have no idea what locals are, sideways? :Erm::Erm::Erm::Erm:

[stevewool]

Thanks boys. Yes, coming on grand. In fact its costing lots of grand too

[grahamw48]

Looking very smart Steve. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Longweekend]

Steve, we switch the lights on with a downward movement, native style seems to be upward....:Erm:

[stevewool]

WOW, there is something wrong then, ours goes sideways! :NoNo:

[Tawi2]

Horizontal is the new vertical :icon_lol: apart from that the project is looking good :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[fred]

WOW, there is something wrong then, ours goes sideways! :NoNo:

In the UK we turn off the light.
In the R.P we close them.
Its all very technical.

[stevewool]

You are awake very early Fred, or up very late

[fred]

You are awake very early Fred, or up very late

Went to bed very early..Woke up early..
Going back to bed any minute now..Just got to finish the cold one Longweekend told me to have.

[Terpe]

WOW, there is something wrong then, ours goes sideways! :NoNo:

All of ours are 'side-ways' too
Same all over the village :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Nothing to worry about at all :xxgrinning--00xx3:

It's a wonderful transformation Steve, very stylish :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Harry T]

Great Pics Steve, and things seem to be flying along, very nice for us guys that maybe want to go down this route, wont let me give you anymore reps, says i have to spread them around.. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

thanks again boys for your nice comments, the price is going up but still manageable ,
I tried to work out all the cost but there is always something you forgot or did not order enough off, but its not breaking the bank just yet:smile:

[chippy]

Looks great Steve! Would love to know the final cost of land and the build - just in case I decide to build out there - but then again, I get homesick the first week of being in Cebu.

[tiger31]

Well done Steve, it,s looking good so far. You seem to have good tradesmen on the job, that,s for sure.

[stevewool]

Latest news,
Just spoke to the foreman Roland and all is well, he recons it will be around another 3 weeks before its all done , so it has over run by that time, but it was a fixed price and the fee is still the same, he just wants it all done properly in his words .
Down stairs has been finish on the inside, all windows are in tiles too,
They are starting to take down all the supports from the roof and the roof deck , the outside walls are to be skimmed and painted ,
We are both so pleased we found someone who knows what they are doing and the charges are good too,
More pictures to follow soon

[Terpe]

I can imagine how you feel Steve.
It's not so easy to find 'good' tradesmen here.

[imagine]

WOW, there is something wrong then, ours goes sideways! :NoNo:

so is ours :icon_lol:

[imagine]

Latest news,
Just spoke to the foreman Roland and all is well, he recons it will be around another 3 weeks before its all done , so it has over run by that time, but it was a fixed price and the fee is still the same, he just wants it all done properly in his words .
Down stairs has been finish on the inside, all windows are in tiles too,
They are starting to take down all the supports from the roof and the roof deck , the outside walls are to be skimmed and painted ,
We are both so pleased we found someone who knows what they are doing and the charges are good too,
More pictures to follow soon

dont let them skim the walls with neat cement,it will give cracks in its coat , use skim coat its a white color , it can be sanded and smoothed when dry

[fred]

dont let them skim the walls with neat cement,it will give cracks in its coat , use skim coat its a white color , it can be sanded and smoothed when dry

Agreed although its always been normal here face fill walls after the acid in cement has been neutralized.
They used to call it "Patching compound" and they face fill the walls with a 4 " putty knife! Takes forever..
These days we use a product called Mondo skimcoat. It has to be mixed with either white or grey cement and it bonds like .... to a blanket,extremely tough and of course sand-able.
Unlike ordinary skim coat it is not very porous.
If pure white cement is mixed with it,the walls are already white and very easy to paint.
I always get the masons to put it on with 12" float trowels... Quick and easy.

http://static.tuugo.ph/images/877/977/davies_mondo_.jpg

http://www.tuugo.ph/CompanyProducts/davies-mondo/022999415136

[imagine]

Agreed although its always been normal here face fill walls after the acid in cement has been neutralized.
They used to call it "Patching compound" and they face fill the walls with a 4 " putty knife! Takes forever..
These days we use a product called Mondo skimcoat. It has to be mixed with either white or grey cement and it bonds like .... to a blanket,extremely tough and of course sand-able.
Unlike ordinary skim coat it is not very porous.
If pure white cement is mixed with it,the walls are already white and very easy to paint.
I always get the masons to put it on with 12" float trowels... Quick and easy.

http://static.tuugo.ph/images/877/977/davies_mondo_.jpg

http://www.tuugo.ph/CompanyProducts/davies-mondo/022999415136


we been using super kinis skim coat ,, island paints, but wasnt mixed with cement, next time il try check mondo :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[fred]

we been using super kinis skim coat ,, island paints, but wasnt mixed with cement, next time il try check mondo :xxgrinning--00xx3:

OK..Yeah we have used super kinis but we have had some fall off the wall..Also if there is any dust residue on the walls after sanding,the paint cannot adhere and that falls off!
The Mondo is a bit more pricey but never had any issues with it yet..
I was a painter for 30 years in UK but over here I have had to learn all over again as the whole process (and products)are quite different..
Oh how I wish Dulux would open a factory here!
E
Edit..
Although Mondo is more expensive there is no need to buy Flat lax to mix it with..Just pure cement so thinking about it,the price is about the same.. Not 100% sure though.

[stevewool]

The latest pictures , the pictures are not the greatest quality but you can see what is happening

93409339934193429343934493459346

Again we are so pleased with what is happening, the builders are doing everything we are asking and even though they are saying it will be another 2 to 3 weeks over the date they gave us, the fixed fee is still the same

[Michael Parnham]

Nearly there! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

Just had some more pictures taken of the house, its coming on fine, the roof is on and its weather proof too, just the last few bits to be done and thats it, ready for us to put our mark on it, pictures to follow

[stevewool]

here are some more pictures

[SimonH]

Looking good Steve :smile:

[grahamw48]

That looks like a rather large house. :smile:

[Terpe]

Thanks for continuing the photographic updates Steve.
Very interesting to see something grow.

[stevewool]

Looking good Steve :smile:

Thanks Simon,

[stevewool]

Thanks for continuing the photographic updates Steve.
Very interesting to see something grow.

Hope it can give others who may want to go down this line, plus not being there i want to see every stage of the build for when and if i would like to build myself

[stevewool]

That looks like a rather large house. :smile:

The lot is just over 180 sq mtrs and the house is just over 73 sq mtrs each floor, down stairs is the bedrooms of Ems dad and Brother, plus bathroom and kitchen and living room, upstairs is our living space, somewhere to share plus somewhere to get away too, the roof terrace well thats my space, somewhere to try to grow things and to get some pictures of the night sky too, so yes its a big house but for a very good budget so far

[grahamw48]

Ah, I see. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

The place I had built out there was about the same...80sqm each floor (ground floor restaurant, first floor living accommo' and rooftop for aviaries, clothes drying ,etc). :smile:

[stevewool]

the latest pictures, taken on the 10th April

93739372937493759376

[jake]

Its coming along nicely Steve :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Why is the left hand side of the building only plastered on the ground floor?

[stevewool]

Its coming along nicely Steve :xxgrinning--00xx3:

Why is the left hand side of the building only plastered on the ground floor?

Thats where we may or not build the extension just above the plaster, then knock through into the first floor, but i do say maybe, OR MAYBE NOT, but its there till we make my mind up,
I am hoping to get some plants climbing ip that side of the house to cover it till then

[stevewool]

Jake i tell a lie, Ems told me that the rest of that side will be plastered later on once they have finished the front,then they can move the scaffold to that side

[jake]

Jake i tell a lie, Ems told me that the rest of that side will be plastered later on once they have finished the front,then they can move the scaffold to that side

Did you ask her why they painted it first? :Erm: Don't tell her I said that, as she might show everybody a picture of my stairs :NoNo:
The ground floor would be ideal for a garage at a later date.

[Michael Parnham]

the latest pictures, taken on the 10th April

93739372937493759376

Nice! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[stevewool]

Did you ask her why they painted it first :Erm: Don't tell her i said that, as she might show everybody a picture of my stairs :NoNo:
The ground floor would be ideal for a garage at a later date.

:icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol::icon_lol:, indeed she may, the plans was for that to be a garage with another bedroom above, but i dont want that , may put some sort of carport there but lets wait and see,

[stevewool]

9382938393849385 here are the latest, these was taken last Saturday, and we have been told that this Saturday they will have finished what we have asked them to do

[Michael Parnham]

Almost there! :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[grahamw48]

Very nice Steve. :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Terpe]

Looks like a great job done Steve :xxgrinning--00xx3:

You have my greatest respect for the way you took the responsibility and controlled what looked like the beginings of a potentially uncontrollable situation.
Well done Steve and Emma :appl:

The results speak for themselves and in a relatively short time too.

[stevewool]

Again thanks for your support boys and girls,
Yes Peter even i thought i was taking on to much but with a very firm hand and even tighter wallet it does look rather grand,
The best thing that we did was to get over there and to see what was happening, there was plans to do this and to do that from members of the family and the work had even started too, but a big NO NO from me that stopped, and thats when we did it the way i wanted it done,
Ems dad has been a big help and Roland our foreman well what a great chap, we spoke to him today and we asked for a quote to do other work and hopefully it will be what we are wanting again, i shall keep you all informed about our next project, thanks again everyone for these nice and welcoming comments :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[imagine]

9382938393849385 here are the latest, these was taken last Saturday, and we have been told that this Saturday they will have finished what we have asked them to do

congrats steve it looks fantastic :xxgrinning--00xx3::xxgrinning--00xx3:

[New Shoes]

I've just read this thread and gotta say, what a good job the builders have done. That's one nice house you've there Steve. Well done to you and Ems!

[tiger31]

Yeah, looks a great job - lots of space.

[stevewool]

Well its been a long time since i have posted on here and has there been any change well yes and no,
The house is still up and is still clean too, i have a few more pictures but very little has changed on the house, the driveway gates have been made wider but upstairs there has been nothing done, thats for us to do once there,
The biggest change has been the street, across the street the houses have all be gutted and been cleaned up, next door has had extensions added and is being rented out and even ready to sell too, and other house have been updated , so really the street is becoming a very nice place again,
I shall try to get some pictures on here to show,

[Sim11UK]

Your house is looking good Steve and it was good to meet you and Emma in that chance encounter in departures at terminal 3, January 2015. :Hellooo:

[Arthur Little]

Your house is looking good Steve and it was good to meet you and Emma in that chance encounter in departures at terminal 3, January 2015. :Hellooo:

Somewhat:icon_offtopic: on my part, I realise, :icon_sorry:!

:Hellooo:, Simon ... it's nice to see you posting here again. :welcomex: back to the fold. Whilst aware you'd been on recently, I'd missed the chance to greet your presence at that time. Regards to Maria [Ladybug] and :please:, don't be a stranger! :biggrin:

[Arthur Little]

Your house is looking good Steve and it was good to meet you and Emma in that chance encounter in departures at terminal 3, January 2015. :Hellooo:

Steve,:iagree: ... your house in Marikina is looking GREAT! Plus, I remember how really :BouncyHappy: excited you were arising from that chance encounter with Simon. So, my apologies, again ... for his reply to your post getting :hijacked:.

[stevewool]

Your house is looking good Steve and it was good to meet you and Emma in that chance encounter in departures at terminal 3, January 2015. :Hellooo:

Yes just eating away and then a someone asking are you stevewool, the other side of the world and in the middle of the airport , now that was a shock,
Hope life is good for you two,
I wonder how many people have been so close to someone with out knowing they are there

[Michael Parnham]

Yes just eating away and then a someone asking are you stevewool, the other side of the world and in the middle of the airport , now that was a shock,
Hope life is good for you two,
I wonder how many people have been so close to someone with out knowing they are there
Met a neighbour from S. Yorkshire on the Delta Ferry when I was living in Dumaguete, also when my ex and I went to Vancouver Island about fifteen years ago we met a Filipina who worked with my ex in Hong Kong ten years previous:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[SimonH]

Sat in Raffles bar in Singapore years ago and on the next table to me was a good friend from my local pub back home, said Hi to each other and then the realisation of where we were suddenly dawned on us :icon_lol:

[stevewool]

A long time ago in Venice, we went into Harry's bar and there looking across from me was Robert De Niro , I was gonna smacked until I noticed it was a mirror and I was looking atyself.:Rasp:

[SimonH]

A long time ago in Venice, we went into Harry's bar and there looking across from me was Robert De Niro , I was gonna smacked until I noticed it was a mirror and I was looking atyself.:Rasp:

He's an ugly bugger isn't he :laugher:

[stevewool]

He's an ugly bugger isn't he :laugher:

Yes he his, plus his mole had moved to the other side of his face too, Amazing

[Sim11UK]

Somewhat:icon_offtopic: on my part, I realise, :icon_sorry:!

:Hellooo:, Simon ... it's nice to see you posting here again. :welcomex: back to the fold. Whilst aware you'd been on recently, I'd missed the chance to greet your presence at that time. Regards to Maria [Ladybug] and :please:, don't be a stranger! :biggrin:

Hi Arthur, thank you and I hope you and Myrna are doing well. Ladybug says hi too. :Hellooo::Hellooo:

[Sim11UK]

Yes just eating away and then a someone asking are you stevewool, the other side of the world and in the middle of the airport , now that was a shock,
Hope life is good for you two,
I wonder how many people have been so close to someone with out knowing they are there

Hi Steve, sorry we ruined your meal :biggrin: We arrived at terminal 3 looking for the desk and I suddenly saw you two coming the other way and thought, that's stevewool? Lost sight of you and spotted you both again, later after we'd put our baggage through. Was a pleasure to meet you both, inspite of me having a terribly sunburnt face, from playing in the ocean all day, with my nephew and niece. Hope we can do it again sometime? as it relieved the boredom waiting for the flight. We missed you January this year. :smile:

[stevewool]

We was in Florida last January Simon, Emma wanted to visit Disney and everything else that goes with Florida.
I don't know when our next trip is going to happen to the Phil's but I think it will be a permanent stop next time

[Sim11UK]

We've got to go to the US soon? as both Maria's sisters are over there. Good luck! when the time comes to move there.