When doing long concrete caps, one should use the longest continuous pieces of rebar possible and at least two longitudinal pieces, preferably 3 (2 x 1/2" or 3 x 3/8"). Breaking the rebar lengths into segments without overlapping and wiring them tightly to each other at the very least just provides weak spots for the concrete beam, negating the very purpose of it. While I realize your main purpose was to provide a level surface for laying block, consider that pouring a concrete beam on top of a rubble wall acts as a tie to keep the more flexible structure of the stone wall from moving laterally and thus keeping the load on the walls strictly in compression. Also, might I suggest gloves when working with lime or cement masonry. Your skin and hands will thank you. Great project - keep the videos coming. (I'm a retired building and restoration contractor in the US - Love working on old buildings.)
I think there is an argument that placing an entirely rigid beam on a flexible lime jointed wall is not a good match. I initially thought the same as you, but on reconsideration may be the beam will move a little with the wall, crack benignly in places but still provide a level base for the wall above.
Well done folks, that is a milestone moment laying the beam! Your mum make me think of my mother in law when she was younger and fitter there wasn't a job that she wouldn't tackle with confidence and ease. I only just realised you are in Ayrshire, it's a lovely part of the country with good hearted people unlike my own Glasgow where good people are the exception rather than the rule
It’s a beautiful place looking out seeing the lighthouse very nice . You are really coming along I see it wasn’t easy getting the alignment of them 2 walls. I’m still grading my slope . Thanks
i enjoy watching you work and am already looking forward to the finished result. as i wrote before, thank you for your understandable english comments. may i give you a tip? i hope so. in order not to cause a cable fire, i recommend that you unwind the cable drum completely every time you use it… 😊
Weather is much better down in the tropical South than here in Shetland! Good effort on that capping beam, I know just how much effort and concrete goes into what seems like a small space.
Stella work team! All that effort will pay off and in fact is! Also, video quality was absolutely not an issue for me watching, but hopefully fewer technical issues going forwards will be less of a headache ❤
I know those trees are special to you but they have to go or they’ll destroy all the work you’ve done. Plant 10 new ones of the same type 50 to 80 feet away. 😊
