After a fabulous week in Argentina, it is back to the job site.

Athough work has progressed, there was plenty of rain in the past week.  The key activities under way are to complete all the components so the 14 inch structural slab can be poured.  The structural slab will be on top of the 3 inch protection slab that was poured on February 2.

In order to pour the structural slab, the plumbing rough-in must be completed as well as the electrical conduit that is in the concrete.  The sewage waste must flow by gravity to the sewage ejector, so this is a significant milestone.  Having electrical conduit in the concrete simplifies the wiring and reduces the need for chases through the ceiling and walls in the lower level.

Importantly, any steel columns supporting steel beams must be set in the concrete, so these components must be placed accurately (or the steel columns won’t line up with the steel beams).

Prior to pouring the structural slab, the reinforcing steel (rebar), steel plates, plumbing rough-in and electrical conduit must be inspected by the City of Monte Sereno.

OK, we’re getting on top of this project …

In terms of decisions, we’re now reaching the point where finishes are being established.  For the concrete floors, we need to decide on how we want our concrete floors finished.  This is important as it is hard to change later (go figure).  Looking ahead, windows and doors need to be ordered and finalized, too.

We came across some very interesting and durable polished concrete.  This could be worth further investigation (and knowing how much it will cost).  You can see three different colors in this photo.

Stained and polished concrete.

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