skills on site september 2011

Skills on Site September 2011 1

2 Skills on Site September 2011

QUALITY BUILDING MATERIALS AT THE LOWEST PRICES191 stores and expanding throughout southern Africa

CODE RED 319 • GO Advertising 62874

HOME ACCOUNT

PREPAID

4728

VALID ONLY IN SOUTH AFRICA

4728

VALID ONLY IN SOUTH AFRICA

Selected products may not be available in all stores. Prices include 14% VAT and are only

valid in RSA until 25 September 2011. E & O.E.

FREE LOCAL DELIVERYAll delivery rates are subsidised by Cashbuild.

Handling fee applies to bricks and cement. Enquire in-store for details.

For any queries, please visit www.cashbuild.co.za or contact us on our share call number 0860 100 582

DISTANT ORDERINGYou can pay at one store for collection or delivery from any of our 191 other stores. Remember to

bring your ID when placing and collecting an order. Direct deliveries from the manufacturer on full loads of cement, bricks and roof tiles.

Our everyday prices are the lowest in town,

we’ve checked!www.cashbuild.co.za

PVA PAINTDULUX BERGER-MASTER NUKOTE PVA • White5 Litres SKU: 5062

116.9510 Litres SKU: 5071

199.9520 Litres SKU: 5063

329.95PLASCON CROWN ARCTIC PVA • White5 Litres SKU: 5050

89.9520 Litres SKU: 5051

299.95

MEDAL CONTRACTORSPVA • White5 Litres SKU: 5056

79.9510 Litres SKU: 5068

149.9520 Litres SKU: 5057

272.95CHAMPION EXTRA THICK PVA • White5 Litres SKU: 5002

62.9510 Litres SKU: 5037

109.9520 Litres SKU: 5001

189.95

MELODY PVA • White20 Litres SKU: 300002

134.95

DURAM ACRYLIC PVA • White5 Litres SKU: 301223

149.9520 Litres SKU: 301224

499.95

TOOLS

LASHER BOWSAW530mm SKU: 924554 64.95750mm SKU: 924551 88.95LASHER BOWSAW BLADES530mm SKU: 924583 17.95750mm SKU: 924585 21.95

HACKSAW BLADES • 2/pack

300mm x 18TPI SKU: 924451 37.95

300mm x 32TPI SKU: 924453 38.95

HANDSAW550mm SKU: 924510 93.95

HACKSAWLight Duty SKU: 924456 39.95 Heavy Duty SKU: 924457 118.95

RUBBER MALLET60mm • 450g SKU: 924701 87.95

CLUB HAMMER1,8kg Wooden Handle SKU: 924634 209.95

CLAW HAMMERWooden Handle 500g SKU: 924626 68.95

16oz Tubular SKU: 924646 101.95

CEMENT

DEPENDABLE QUALITY FROM TRUSTED BRANDS.

CASHBUILD GUARANTEESLOWEST PRICES ON CEMENT!

Check your local store for price.

GARDEN TOOLS

IMPORTEDGARDEN FORKSKU: 8805

124.95

LASHERGARDEN FORKSKU: 883

175.95

IMPORTED ROUND NOSE SHOVELSKU: 8804

100.95

GARDEN TOOLS

IMPORTED IMPORTEDDIGGING SPADESKU: 8802

94.95

LASHERDIGGING SPADESKU: 880

114.95

LASHER ROUND NOSE SHOVELSKU: 881

114.95

WHEELBARROWS

LASHER CONCRETE WHEEL-BARROW SKU: 914

415.95

CONCRETEWHEEL-BARROW SKU: 915

335.95

POLY WHEEL-BARROW SKU: 300133

431.95

BUILDERS TOOLS

TYROLEAN MACHINESKU: 941701

199.95

BUILDER’SLINE70lb 4211SKU: 941052

33.95

OUTSIDECOVETROWEL SKU: 9121524

37.95BRICK TROWELWooden Handle275 - 280mmSKU: 9121512

47.95250mmSKU: 9121511

52.95

GAUGING TROWEL 150mmSKU: 912103

24.95200mmSKU: 912120

33.95

OUTSIDESHARPTROWEL SKU: 9121526

37.95

POINTINGTROWEL 150mmSKU: 9121510

24.95200mmSKU: 912122

31.95

STRAIGHT EDGE2,0mSKU: 905102

194.95

HAWKPLASTERINGPlasticSKU: 9121516

38.95

PLASTERING TROWELNOTCHED280 x 6mmSKU: 9121514

38.95

PLASTICFLOATSKU: 9121517

23.95

WOODENFLOATSKU: 975

19.95

http://www.cashbuild.co.za

http://www.cashbuild.co.za

www.cashbuild.co.za


September 2011

CopyrightAll rights reserved. No editorial matter published in “Skills On Site” may be reproduced in any form or language without written permission of the publishers. While every effort is made to ensure accurate reproduction, the editor, authors, publishers and their employees or agents shall not be responsible or in any way liable for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies in the publication - whether arising from negligence or otherwise or for any consequences arising therefrom. The inclusion or exclusion of any product does not mean that the publisher or editorial board advocates or rejects its use either generally or in any particular field or fields.

Cover Story4 ABE

Concrete and Cement7 Training builds a better future10 Quality Precast Concrete Houses11 New Brick Making Technology

Ceilings13 How to Repair Holes in Dry Walls

Roofing17 How to Install Gutters

Electrical19 Geysers Fact or Fiction

Contractors Corner21 Colouring Roof tiles25 Power in Your Pocket25 Truck Owners Get Best Service

Promech Publishing has a BEE rating of 97.2%

Proprietor and Publisher:PROMECH PUBLISHINGTel: (011) 781-1401

Fax: (011) 781-1403E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.promech.co.zaPrinted by:CTP PrintersTel: (011) 230-7000

The “Skills On Site” team - Top: Susan Custers, publisher; Zinobia Docrat, production; Raymond Campling, editor. Seated: Candis Allen, advertising sales; Catherine Macdiva, administration; Jackie Nene, subscriptions/circulation.

AcknowledgementsIn order to bring you the most up-to-date infor-mation from around the globe, we make use of Internet websites that are current and provide information that is relevant to local builders. Information from the following sites has been included in this issue: WikiHow – www.wikihow.com, Stock.Xchange – www.sxc.hu

Tiling26 How to fit Wall Tiles

Success28 Signature of Quality

Leading info30 Stats

Finance31 Funding affordable houses

Painting33 How to Clean a Paintbrush

Transport35 Creative Construction Plan

In touch37 In touch

10

26

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.promech.co.za

http://www.wikihow

http://www.sxc.hu


COVER STORY

4 Skills on Site Feb 2011

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Broken tiles

Tanks and reservoirs

Gutters

www.abe.co.za


COVER STORY


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Broken tiles

Tanks and reservoirs

Gutters


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www.abe.co.za


the cement innovation company

Free Application Demonstrations

Cemcrete (Pty) Ltd www.cemcrete.co.za [email protected] Tel. (011) 474 2415 Fax. (011) 474 2416

cement innovationWith over 60 products ranging from beautiful swimming pool plasters, to internal and external wall and floor finishes, cement and acrylic-based waterproofing systems, adhesives, grouts and mortars; and more; you’re bound to find the perfect product for any renovation or construction project.

CreteCote, Cemcrete’s new innovative floor product, does more than just give you a beautiful floor finish. It’s amazing adhesive qualities allows it to be applied to even the most difficult of surfaces such as old screeds and concrete, even after the removal of carpets; saving you time and money. CreteCote is extremely durable (being cement-based), and is waterproof, easy to clean and easy to maintain. CreteCote is available in ten attractive colours and can be further enhanced with Cemcrete’s CreteStain colour systems.

Cemcrete’s growing swimming pool range now includes BeadCrete; a specialised swimming pool plaster with stunning glass beads to bring even more sparkle to your pool. PoolCrete and Pool Coating (an easy to apply swimming pool paint that can revitalise your pool) remain ever popular in this industry.

Not only do we provide quality products, but our national sales team offers expert advice and technical assistance, helping you choose the most suitable product and application as needed.

View www.cemcrete.co.za for our full range or visit our show room at 227 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parktown North, Johannesburg. Or our Ideas Centres at 10 Telford Road, Industria, Johannesburg and 1 Franschhoek Crescent, Panorama, Cape Town for loads of inspiration...Cemcrete- the cement innovation company

Looking to expand your business offering?Join Cemcrete’s Steve van Straaten at one of our FREE one day product demonstrations. Learn the mixing and application of these beautiful cement-based coatings and more. Steve has more than 33 years experience in the construction industry, the last 13 which he has specialized in Cemcrete’s wide range of decorative coatings.

CALL NOW TO SECURE YOUR PLACE:Steve van [email protected] 267 7456

Wall Coatings

Floor Coatings

Swimmingpool Coatings

http://www.cemcrete.co.za


http://www.cemcrete.co.za


www.cemcrete.co.za


CONCRETE & CEMENT

In the construction indus-try sustainable training and skills development has become a priority.

These days there is so much technology and innovation that makes the construction of all sorts of projects easier and more effective. But often these technologies are not used to their full capacity when the operators do not have the necessary experi-ence or training.Leading manufacturer of brick and block making machines, Hydraform is a company that understands the importance of training and support for its prod-ucts. In June 2010 the Hydraform Training Academy opened. This facility offers specialised training courses to individuals from all backgrounds and skill levels on Hydraform machines and construction using Hydraform interlocking blocks. The training packages on offer from the Hydraform Training Academy run over a two week period and cover everything from soil testing and preparation to machine maintenance and important construction skills.

The whole nine yardsThe Hydraform Training Academy provides all course

Training Builds a Better Future

Practice makes perfect. Seems obvious doesn’t it, but as skills go this old saying still holds up. Whether it’s welding or golf, gaining knowledge and practising skills will provide the experience needed to become a true master in almost any field.

The Hydraform Training Academy facilities

The graduating class of 2011!

Training in progress


2353 A. Shak Sept11 Skills on Site fpfc ad .indd 1 7/18/11 11:49:47 AM

www.ashak.co.za


materials, accommodation, meals and protective clothing. Training instructors have the experience and knowledge to guide anyone through the course. Training on both Vibraform and Hydraform machines is available at the training facility. The course follows a set schedule:1. In the first week of training, focus is placed onmaterialsourcing,soilpreparationandfieldtests;thisensures that construction projects get off on the right foot. 2. Week one also consists of trainees getting to grips with the Hydraform machine ranges and important aspects like machine layout, safety precautions and in-the-fieldmaintenanceproceduresarediscussed.Also covered in this week is the actual operation of the machines and essential block making techniques are shared. 3. The course comes together in the second week, wherein construction theory, building applications and the foundation to roof construction of a building takes place. 4. The courses are presented in English. French courses will be held in 2012. Hydraform has always placed a strong emphasis on providing clients with cutting-edge technologies, and with the addition of the Hydraform Training Academy it will ensure that

CONCRETE & CEMENT

these cutting-edge technologies are used to their full potential.An additional offer to clients is on-site training for 2 weeks. A similar curriculum to the academy is followed ensuring all round skill transfer and training to the full team working on site.

Key Learning Hydraform has been in the block making industry since 1988 and have been involved in countless construc-tion projects around the world and in some cases in the most rural areas imaginable. They have gained immense experience and key learning that enables the Hydraform training staff to effectively train and transfer skills to the men and woman who are the builders of tomorrow. These experienced trainers know these machines and building with compressed soil blocks inside and out. The training supervisor, Sean van den Merwe, is tasked with ensuring that all trainees get through the courseandaresufficientlyexperiencedbythetimethey arrive on site. “It is all about hands-on experi-ence, and the transfer of skill,” says Sean. Hydraform offers a 5% discount on their machine range to those who sign-up for the training and technical support is provided by their global team represented in 50 countries worldwide. Hydraform, Sean Van der Merwe, Tel: (011) 9131449, Email: [email protected], Web: www.hydraform.com

Who says learning is no fun

No that’s a class project! The trainees at the Hydraform Academy get hands on experience by constructing a complete building from scratch, all in just a few days



http://www.hydraform.com


Funded by the Gauteng Department of Local Government and Housing (Tshwane Region) and situated in Northwest Province, this is a cross-border project which entails the construction of

1 516 houses for the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. Concrete Manufacturers Association (CMA) director, Hamish Laing, comments that properly selected and used precast concrete building materials form an effective combination, especially when used for the construction of housing.“This project is an excellent example of how precast concrete products can transform RDP houses to be attractive. These precast concrete materials each contribute to the overall effect, providing affordable yet good looking accommodation in which the owner can take pride,” says Hamish.

Roomy housesThe 40m² houses comprise two bedrooms, a combined kitchen and living area, and a room containing a shower and toilet. As yet there is no electricity supply to the development. This and the installation of solar water heating will take place at a future date.“Because the bricks being used on this project have an attractive diamond-face finish the walls don’trequire plastering, only painting, and the inner walls

CONCRETE & CEMENT

Quality Precast Concrete Houses

Concrete bricks, concrete roof tiles and bevelled concrete pavers are providing long lasting and good looking building materials for the Ga-Rankuwa Extension 24 fully government subsidized housing project.

are bag-washed – both processes saving on costs,” observes Hamish.Measuring 140 x 90 x 290 mm, the bricks are being supplied by Delta Bricks and Eckraal Quarries, and are used in a single-skin application. The roof tiles are being manufactured by West End Claybrick and Coverland. They are being laid on galvanised steel trusses supplied by Vela Steel Building Systems. The paving blocks, 50mm thick and rated at 25MPa, are being produced by Technicrete. Hamish says that concrete pavers are superior to in-situ concrete for paved surrounds because of their superior durability and visual appeal.

Three phasesConstruction work started in January under the control of the main contractor, Jade Africa Devel-opments. The project is being built in three phases, the first comprising 516 houses, and as at the end of May, close-on 150 units had been completed.During this period three sub-contractors employed 207 workers on site, of whom 70% were recruited in Ga-Rankuwa. Of that total, 82 were skilled and 115 unskilled, and approximately 10% comprised women.Commenting further, Hamish says that apart from be-ing good in terms of quality construction, the labour-intensive method of building also contributes to job

An example of the masonry work at Ga-Rankuwa Extension 24 using single-skinned and economical diamond-faced concrete bricks

Aesthetically-pleasing concrete roof tiles are being used to cover the houses


creation with the labour-cost part of the housing units amounting to 20,5% of the total cost of construction.

Near completeJade Africa Developments, CEO, Lawrence Esterhuizen, says recently a further three sub-contracting teams were brought on board to speed up the construction process and that at least 70% of the core building skills for the new teams had been recruited locally in Ga-Rankuwa.This means that the completion date has been brought forwardfromearly2013tothefirstquarterof2012.Concrete Manufacturers Association, Hamish Laing, Tel: (011) 805 6742, Web: www.cma.org.za

CONCRETE & CEMENT

Concrete pavers were used to pave the surrounds at the housing development

Some of the completed houses

Housing units nearing completion

A group of workers pose proudly outside one of the completed houses at the Ga-Rankuwa Extension 24 development

The HB68, HB48, and HB33-models offer output ca-pacities of 120 000, 85 000, and 58 000 basic stock bricks per shift, respectively, thanks to international standard technologies. For ease of operation, Birkenmayer has incorporated the latest in PLC (programmable logic controllers) technology into its brick-makers. Centralised PLCs control brick-making plants with minimal operator intervention, while manual controls are used for main-tenance and alternative operating modes. Birkenmayer also offers the option of including sec-ondary feed units for making coloured pavers. This eliminates the need for colouring throughout, resulting in savings in pigments. Birkenmayer, Louis Eksteen, Tel: (011) 970 3880, Fax: (011) 394 1681, Email: [email protected], Web: www.birkenmayer.co.za

New brick making technology

Birkenmayer helps boost block production with new technology and smart implementation.

Birkenmayer, leaders in brick-making technology in South Africa, has incorporated an extremely robust machine frame design and vibration technology into three of its brick-making models, making them even more cost-effective and user-friendly.

http://www.cma.org.za


http://www.birkenmayer.co.za


www.makita.co.za


Here are some tips:Small hole repairs – less than 5cmOneeasyfixsuggestion–ifthe hole is not big, take a piece of steel wool, stuff it in the hole so that it's just beneath the surface ofthewall,thenfixitwithjoint compound. This is the easiest way.1. Inspect the damaged area and remove any loose damaged drywall.2. Lightly wet the area. 3. Once cleaned and damp, apply a lot of non-shrinkjoint compound and use a putty knife to smooth the compound by pulling the blade towards you at a 30 degree angle in one steady smooth pull. Several thin coats of joint compound are better if trying to repair a deep hole.4. Let the patched area dry properly before applying extra coats or sanding.5. When dry, lightly sand the area smooth using dry-wall sandpaper attached to a drywall sander. 6. Smallmistakescanbefixedwithathintopcoatof joint compound over small cracks7. Texture before priming and painting if necessary. Use a spray texture that comes in small aerosol cans. Don’t hold the can too close to the repair area. Drag a wide blade putty knife over the area after it has dried for 15-20 minutes.

Building site mishaps can occur on site and if you are installing dry walls or ceilings a hole in a newly installed panel can be costly to replace. In some instances repairs can be an answer. If you work neatly, repairs will not be noticeable and will not affect the performance of the structure.

How to repair holes in dry walls

8. Apply two coats of primer to the repaired area. Use a paint roller.9. Paint using a paint roller once the primer has dried. It is best to wait overnight.

Medium hole repair – 3 to 4 inches1. Outline the area with a carpenter's square.

Use a drywall knife to cut away the damaged sec-tion of drywall making a rectangle or square shape.2. Cut the patch from a new piece of drywall that measures about 7-8 cm bigger than your hole.3. On the backside of the drywall outline your hole on the centre. Remove all the rock material from the back around the area you just outlined leaving the paper on the front.4. The solidpieceofdrywall should fit in your holewith a few centimetres of overlapping paper. Cover the patch with drywall compound and smooth the whole area using a wide blade drywall knife. Let it

CEILINGS


www.arcelormittalsa.com


dry. Lightly sand the area smooth using high grit sand-paper. Wipe the area with a damp sponge. Apply additional coats of compound if you need to. Sand lightly after each coat.

Large hole repair1. Outline the damaged area with a carpenter's square. Use a drywall knife or utility knife to cut away the damaged section of drywall making arectangle or square shape.2. Cut drywall backer strips from plywood or board. Make them about 10cm longer than the length of the area you want to patch. Place the boards straight up in the hole and centre them so you have 10cm of the board behind the drywall on top and bottom.3. Hold your board in place and screw it in through your existing drywall. Use a screw gun or drill and drywall screws on top and bottom. Bigger holes will need more backer strips. Also, be sure the heads of the screws are able to countersink.4. Measure the repair area, and cut a piece of drywall to size. Be sure the repair piece of drywall is not thicker than your existing drywall. Screw the new piece to the backer strips.5. Applyadhesive-backedfiberglassdrywalltapetothe area around your patch, then apply a thin coat of drywall compound to the joints and screw heads.Sand the area and apply extra coats of compound untilyouhaveasmoothfinish.

Tips• Screwsaremucheasiertousethannails.• Thincoatsofdrywalljointcompoundareallyou need.• It'seasiertoshaveoffblobsorstripswiththeknife than to sand them.• It'seasiertoshavedownsmallhighspotsthanto sand around a large shallow spot.

Warnings• There are a lot ofwires andpipes that canbe behind your wall. Always check before drilling screws into the drywall.• Wearadustmask.

Things you’ll need•Drywallcompound.• APieceofnewdrywall largeenoughtofillyour hole.• Astraightedge (60 cm level or framing square works best)• Adrywallorkeyholesaw.• Arazorknife.• Jointtapeorsimilarmeshtape.• A15cmdrywallorputtyknife.• Drywallbackingstrips.• Adrywallscrewgunordrill.

CEILINGS


www.macsteel.co.za


ROOFING

How to Install

GuttersRain gutters and downpipes are important to divert and carry rain water away from the foundation of your building. It is important that gutters are measured, pitched, and installed properly to function properly. As a contractor it may fall to you to install gutters. This article explains how to do this.

Steps1. Buy the total length of gutters needed (or more to be safe), and the correct number of necessary downpipes, and attachment brackets. Gutters should be attached to the front and run the entire length of the roof, ending with a downpipe. If a gutter run measures longer than 12 metres, the gutter should be positioned to pitch down from the middle, aimed toward a downpipe at each end. A front bracket will be attached to every other rafter tail, or approxi-mately every 80cm.

2. Measure and snap a layout line using a chalk line. a. Locate the starting point, or high-est point, of the gutter run. b. Mark the point on the fascia 3.2cmbelowtheroofflashing.c. Mark the low end point on the fascia, while calculating the slope of the gutter at .635cm for every three metres of length. d. Snap a chalk line between the two points. e. Locate the ending point, or the downpipe location, of the gutter run.

3. Cut the gutters to size. Use a hacksaw to cut the gutter at the proper measurement.

4. Attach the gutter brackets. Brackets will either snap onto the gutters or will be mounted into the faceboardfirst,dependingonthetypeofguttersyoubuy. Read the manufacturer's instructions.

5. Mark the location for the downpipe opening on the gutter. Use a jigsaw to cut a square opening at the correct place in the gutter.


ROOFING

6. At-tach the downpipe c o n n e c t o r and end cap to the gutter using silicone sealant and short metal screws. An end cap should be used on any open-ended run of gutter.

7. Mount the gutters. A bracket should be mounted to the faceboard every 45-to-60cm. Use a stainless steel lag screw long enough to penetrate the faceboard at least 5cm.

8. Attach the downspout to the gutters through the down-pipe connector. Make sure the narrow end of the downpipe is facing down and aimed in the correct direction.

9. Seal any gutter connec-tion seams with a heavy bead of sealant and allow to dry overnight.

Tips• Repair any rot or eavedamage prior to installing gutters.• Test the newly installedgutter for leaks and proper water diversion by running a garden hose at the highest point.

Things you’ll need• Gutters• Silicone sealant• Screwdriver/drill• Lag screws• Short screws• Tin snips• Hacksaw• End caps• Chalk line• Measuring tape• Downspouts• Downspout connectors• Fascia brackets


ELECTRICAL

Fact or fiction:More electricity would be used should a geyser be switched on and off compared to leaving it on.The standing loss for geysers is determined from SABS 0151 and is typically 2.59kWh per 24 hours for a 150lt. This assumes that the geyser is not used and is storing the water at the thermostat set point. If the geyser is switched off the water temperature will reduce by approximately 10ºC (over 24 hrs). If the water is used at the lower temperature then a small saving will be achieved. If the geyser is switched on and allowed to heat up to the original temperature, then no sav-ing will be achieved. It does however not use more electricity switching on or off for long periods.

Fact or fiction:By switching geysers on and off the thermostat will be damaged.The thermostat by nature of its operation is switching on and off all the time. No damage will occur if the geyser is switched on and off by the user.

Fact or fiction:Switching geysers on and off will result in cracks in the geysers.This is not so, as the thermal shocks during normal operation are much greater than the slow cooling if the geyser is switched off and allowed to cool.

Fact or fiction:When a geyser blanket is used the geyser doesn’t need to be switched off.

Geysers Fact or Fiction Contractors often get asked the following questions when installing

geysers at homes or businesses around the country. Here the experts from Kwikot give the answers to all the commonly asked questions.

The thermal blanket has the potential to save 20% of 2,59kW = 0.52kW/day. In addition if the water is allowed to cool and used at the lower temperature, a further small saving will be achieved.

Fact or fiction:A geyser covered with a geyser blanket can overheat and explode or catch fire.Provided the correct materials are chosen for the blanket there is no risk of fire or explosion. All theblanket does is reduce the temperature loss to the atmosphere, and the thermostat controls the water temperature.Thefinalcontrolsetpointremainsthesame inside the geyser, regardless of whether there is a blanket or not. Kwikot, Lionel Schultz, Tel: (011) 897 4600, Fax: 086 634 8913, Email: [email protected]

Correct geyser blankets don't cause fires

Even when a geyser blanket is installed it saves electricity to switch it off when not in use

Hot water

Switching a geyser on and off repeatedly will not result in the geyser cracking

The thermostat of a geyser cannot be damaged by put-ting it on and off


20 Skills on Site September 20112 Skills on Site July 2011

super laycryl Professional liquidwaterproofi ng compound.

For more information please call an a.b.e branch or visit www.abe.co.za

Professionals use super laycryl for lasting waterproofi ng solutions on roofs. It is an all-in-one solution that can be used in many applications

Benefits:• super laycryl is an all-in-one system.• There is no need for separate primers (apart from metal surfaces) or top coats.• It has excellent weathering properties, adhesion and is tough, fl exible and non-toxic.

Bonding/Priming:All surfaces: Mix 1 part super laycryl with 1 part clean water and prime (except metal) the total area to be covered. As a guide 0,1l of super laycryl mixed with 0.1I of water will prime an area of 0,7m2.. Allow to dry for 30 min. Metal surfaces only: Prime with a.b.e. 4-metal primer. This not only gives excellent adhesion but resists rust. Allow to dry for 4 hours.

NOTE: DO NOT USE SOLVENT BASED BITUMINOUS SOLUTIONS AS A PRIMER.

Coverage:±2,1l/m2 for total system.

Mixing:Stir well before use.

Application:First coat (all surfaces after priming):Brush or roll on a fairly thick coat of super laycryl (1l/m2). Put the membrane into the wet coat by using a roller or stiff brush, avoiding the formation of bubbles or wrinkles. On fl at surfaces it is recommended that a fl uted aluminium roller is used. Membrane overlaps should be a minimum of 100mm on end laps and 75mm on side laps.Second coat: once the fi rst coat has dried suffi ciently to take working traffi c (2 - 3 hours depending upon weather), apply a second coat of super laycryl (0,5l/m2) to ensure the membrane is completely saturated.Third and fi nal coat: When the second coat is dry, apply a fi nishing coat of super laycryl at right angles to the second coat (0,5l/m2).Drying time @ 25º C, Touch dry: 1 hour, Hard dry: 24 hours, Full cure: 7 days

Cleaning:Tools, brushes and mixing equipment should be cleaned immediately after use and before material has set with a.b.e. super brush cleaner followed by washing with soap and water.

USES:All types of stable fl ashings.• Parapet walls.• Flat roof waterproofi ng.• Re-waterproofi ng over existing waterproofi ng systems.• Sealing of joints, laps and roofi ng screws on corrugated roofs.• The system is for non-traffi cable roofs.

What you need:• Clean water• Brush or roller• Fluted aluminium roller if applying membrane to fl at surface.Time needed:• 2-3 hours drying time between coats, 3 coats neededSurface preparation:All surfaces to be clean, dry, sound, free of all laitance, grease, oil and loose fl aking particles

Protection on completion:Whilst super laycryl is designed for an extended life, it is important to apply a maintenance coat (super laycryl) every 3 to 4 years.

Packaging:Available in 1l , 5l & 20l containers & 5l kits.

Colours:Red, grey, charcoal, burgundy, white, green, terracotta and brown.

Skills on Site July 2011 3

super laykold tapeSelf-adhesive waterproofi ngtape.

USES:• Seals and repairs leaky, galvanised roof sheeting, holes and overlaps, valley gutters, downpipes, roof screws, pipe vents, ridging and capping.

What you need:•a.b.e bituprime to prime the surface• Sharp knife or scissors to cut the tape

Surface preparation:Surfaces to be covered must be clean, sound, dry and free of grease, oils and loose materials.Allow material to warm in sun before application.


Super laykold tape is the quickest and easiest solution for repairs to metal roofs (galvanised) as well as gutters and downpipes.

Bonding/Priming:Prime surfaces with a.b.e. bituprime. The a.b.e. bituprime must be applied to a dry substrate. Allow 4 hours for drying before applying super laykold tape.

Application:Cut to size before removing plastic wrapping and apply super laykold tape to the required area. Sealing: overlaps need to be a minimum of 50mm. All gaps between a wall and a corrugated roof, must be fi lled with a.b.e. bituseal plastic, or cement, if used as a fl ashing.

Protection on completion:super laykold tape is to be left with the aluminium protection layer still on after application.

Packaging:2,5m x 50mm2,5m x 75mm2,5m x 100mm2,5m x 150mm5m x 100mm5m x 150mm10m x 75mm10m x 100mm10m x 150mm10m x 225mm

Colours:Aluminium.

http://www.abe.co.za

www.abe.co.za

Skills on Site September 2011 21Skills on Site July 2011 3

super laykold tapeSelf-adhesive waterproofi ngtape.

USES:• Seals and repairs leaky, galvanised roof sheeting, holes and overlaps, valley gutters, downpipes, roof screws, pipe vents, ridging and capping.

What you need:•a.b.e bituprime to prime the surface• Sharp knife or scissors to cut the tape

Surface preparation:Surfaces to be covered must be clean, sound, dry and free of grease, oils and loose materials.Allow material to warm in sun before application.


Super laykold tape is the quickest and easiest solution for repairs to metal roofs (galvanised) as well as gutters and downpipes.

Bonding/Priming:Prime surfaces with a.b.e. bituprime. The a.b.e. bituprime must be applied to a dry substrate. Allow 4 hours for drying before applying super laykold tape.

Application:Cut to size before removing plastic wrapping and apply super laykold tape to the required area. Sealing: overlaps need to be a minimum of 50mm. All gaps between a wall and a corrugated roof, must be fi lled with a.b.e. bituseal plastic, or cement, if used as a fl ashing.

Protection on completion:super laykold tape is to be left with the aluminium protection layer still on after application.

Packaging:2,5m x 50mm2,5m x 75mm2,5m x 100mm2,5m x 150mm5m x 100mm5m x 150mm10m x 75mm10m x 100mm10m x 150mm10m x 225mm

Colours:Aluminium.

http://www.abe.co.za

www.abe.co.za


Jaca

d 61

18

www.masonite.co.za


Pan Mixers South Africa (PMSA) has introduced a new, cost effective dosing system to automatically add colour pigment to concrete mixes during the manufacture of roof tiles.

PMSA director Walter Ebeling points out that the pat-ented Finke system replaces the need for the more costlygranularandfreeflowmethods,asitisdesignedto feed concrete mixers from a single ground-level weighing station. “Thedisadvantageofagranularorfreeflowsystemis cost, as granules take longer to break up inside the mixer, meaning that more needs to be used in order to get the same kind of intensity that powder oxides produces,” Walter explains. “If you use granules in your oxides, you may end up withstreaksofcolourbecausethegranulesdon’tbreakup properly. The end result is a more cost-effective, better quality product that is more consistent.”Ebeling says that although some local manufacturers remain skeptical to the idea of adopting newer some-times more expensive technology the Finke universal powder pigment dosing system that the company offers easily pays for itself over a period of time as a result of its reliability and quality.PMSA, Walter Ebeling, Tel: 086 100 7672, Email: [email protected], Web: www.pmsa.com

CONTRACTORS CORNER

Colouring Roof Tiles

PMSA director Walter Ebeling




http://www.pmsa.com

www.sails.edx.co.za


www.dpiplastics.co.za


S ince taking over responsibility for the UD Trucks Corporation’s entire sub-Saharan region inJanuary 2010, UD Trucks Southern Africa has been working hard to develop and strengthen

its reach across the region.

Oneofthecompany’skeyfocusareasisroll-outofglobal quality standards in dealerships across South-ern Africa. For this reason, the UD Trucks Academy in Pretoria forms part of the UD Trucks Global Compe-tence Development project to develop and imple-ment global best practices for UD Trucks dealerships across all regions.UDTrucksSouthernAfrica’sdealernetworkalreadyhas to adhere to stringent quality standards, and is continuously measured, from parts to sales, service and admin, to bring customers only the best service and after sales support. “In a highly competitive market, we believe the key is the level of service provided to customers, no matter thesizeoftheirfleet,”saysJohanRichards,CEOofUD Trucks Southern Africa. “That means that our customers can expect the same world-class quality service, no matter where they are in southern Africa.”UD Trucks Southern Africa has dealers in Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe.UD Trucks, Tel: (012) 564 9500, Fax: (012) 564 9532, Web: www.udtrucks.co.za

CONTRACTORS CORNER

Truck owners get best service

The new 3.6 volt Cordless Drill/Driver GSR Mx2Drive Professional from Bosch is a must for contractors. Its innovative 2-speed gearbox allows for the gears to be changed without interruption and provides high torque for maximum power.It has a gear ratio for fast screw driving in second gear andprecise,flushscrewdrivinginfirstgear.Thetool’shandydesignwithshortheadlengthandlow-weight make drilling and screw driving applica-tions overhead or in the tightest of spaces easy.The new Bosch GSR Mx2Drive Professional is the per-fect solution for tight jobs because it combines maxi-mum power and speed with extremely compact design.

The GSR Mx2Drive P r o f e s -sionalfitsinanypantsorjacket pocket. A lockable ¼" universal bit holder locks all conventional drill bits and screwdriver bits. The GSR Mx-2Drive Professional with its wide range of applications is espe-cially used by cabinet makers, kitchenfittersandelectricians.Robert Bosch, Craig Berridge, Tel: (011) 651 9860, Web: www.bosch.com

Power in Your Pocket

http://www.udtrucks.co.za

http://www.udtrucks.co.za

http://www.bosch.com


TILING

How to Fit Wall Tiles

Different contracts call for different finishes and if you are working on a development that calls for tiled

walls here are some tips that can make the work easier. Whatever the shape or size of the wall, the

technique is basically the same.

Steps1. Prepare the walls. To prepare the walls, repair anylargeholeswithplasterfillerandbrushonacoatof plaster stabilising solution if the surface is powdery.

2. Estimate the number of tiles. To work out where to place your tiles, make a tiling gauge from a piece of straight wooden batten. Use this to estimate how many tiles you’ll need – starting at the top of theskirting board, move the batten up the wall one tile width at a time. • Ifanarrowstripisleftatthetop,movethebottomrowupbyhalfatilewidthtogiveanevenfinish.• Markoutthehorizontalrowswithpencil.Remembertouseaspiritleveltoensurethey’rehorizontal.• Tackthebattenalongthefirstpencillinesothatthe tiles can be positioned against it. • Dothesametoidentifywheretoplacetheverti-cal lines – start at a corner and use a plumb line to fixthepositionaccurately.

3. Spread the adhesive. Spread the grout over about half a square metre of the wall, starting in the corner made by the two battens. Use the notched side of the spreader to form even ribbons of grout.

4. Start to tile pressing the tiles gently onto the wall until you see grout squeeze out around the sides.

5. Ensure that the tiles are level. Press spacers into each corner and hold a spirit level across the tiles to seeiftheyformaflatsurface.Continuetotile,work-


ing on about a square metre at a time until you have fixedallthewalltiles.

6. Neaten up. Leave to dry fully before removing thetimberbattens.Cutthetilestofitintoanygaps.For hard ceramic tiles, the glazed surface must be scored and the tile broken along this line. Tile cut-ting jigs are not expensive and are much easier to use than freehand tile cutters. Use a saw tile to cut a tiletofitaroundanawkwardshapesuchasapipeor architrave.

7. Add grout to the tiles. Check that all the spacers are removed and wipe off all tile adhesive from the tiles before starting the grout work. Select a grout colour that matches the tiles (it can be a slightly different colour) and mix as instructed by the manufacturer. Smooth the grout into all the gaps around the tiles. Wipe off excess using a damp cloth. Leave to dry completely before showering or bathing.

Tips• Ifyoufindaproblemwiththewallyouintendtotileafter removing existing tiles, such as dry rot, mould, cracks, etc., it is important to attend to these before tilingoryou’llonlybecoveringupaseriousproblem.In this case, preparing the wall is important.• Planthepositionofthetilessothatthetopsofthelast row of tiles under any window will be exactly in linewiththeledge.Youmayfindyouwillhavetocutthe bottom row of tiles.• Oldtilescanbetiledover–justarrangethenewjoint lines so they don't line up with the old tiles.• Whentakingoffthinstripsfromtheedgeofatile,score the 'waste' surface and use pincers or tile nib-blers to trim. Always wear safety glasses or goggles.

• Tostopadrillbitslipping,sticksomemaskingtapeover the area to be drilled.• Ifyouneedtocutacurvemakeacardmodelthe same size as the tile. Make cuts at around 10mm spacing along the curve edge and press the template into position.• Trimthe10mmstripstofitexactlyaroundthecurveand transfer this shape to the tile. Remember to leave at least 2mm for grouting.

WarningS• Floortilescanbeusedonwallsbutwalltilesshouldneverbeusedonfloors.

Things you’ll need• 1spiritlevel• 1tapemeasure• 1feltpen• 1tilesaw• 1water-proofadhesive/grout• 1sponge• 1squeegee(groutspreader);• 1tilecuttingjig• 1timberbattens(50x25mmapproximately)• 1masonrynails• 1hammer• 1plumbline• 1tilespacers• 1drycloth

TILING


Financially the risks were big, but the couple were determined to use their know-how and experience to start an operation that could compete with the best in the market. Four years

latertheyarefulfillingtheirgoalsandTasha,whoisthemainshareholder,isproudtobeoneofthefirstblack women to be in control of a successful large-scalewaterproofingbusinessinSouthAfrica.Although it never crossed their minds, Tasha and Craig nowwanttousethebusiness’BEEstatustoattracteven more business, especially in the commercial and government sectors where BEE status is an important consideration. Landing more big-scale commercial contracts will take the business to the next level and this is precisely where they want the business to go.

Residential and commercial“At the moment we do 60 % residential contracts and 40 % commercial. In future we want to do even more commercial business and now that the company has grown we believe we are in a position to take on any waterproofingcontract,”saysTasha.“When it comes to these big contracts your BEE status is important and we feel we are in the best position to take advantage of it as the business is after all owned by a black woman.“The way we have gone about growing the business is the best way to go, because we first set aboutbuilding a reputation of quality and reliability, then took on bigger projects and now are we ready to go big. Today, we can say that we have arrived and are ready to compete, head-to-head with the best in the market,” she says.

True empowermentAlthough its credentials show that the company has a level 3 (110 %) BEE status the true empowerment of its staff is more remarkable. Craig tells us that all technical staff members involved in the business were unemployed and trained by the company to install waterproofingtotheirhighstandards.“We have always preferred training people from scratch because in that way they do not have bad habits learnt elsewhere and rather learn our way from the beginning. “It also gives our people a sense of pride and loyalty. For this reason we have a stable workforce of 40 well-trained motivated individuals who see their work as their very own signature of achievement and quality. This makes a big difference and our clients generally appreciatetheextraeffortweputinandthat’swhywe keep growing, because they tell their friends about us,” says Craig.

Signature Of Quality

Two months salary and a credit card, as backup, is all it took Tasha and Craig Napier to start a successful waterproofing contracting operation.

Tasha pictured here with her employees

SUCCESS STORY


SUCCESS STORY

Signature Of Quality Key ingredientsTasha adds that internal training is done on an on-going basis and that staff members get accredita-tionandcertificatestoundertakedifferenttypesofwork once they have learned the theory and been supervised to do the work in practice. Oncethecertificate is issued then thecompany issatisfiedthattheycanundertaketheworkontheirown.“Our technical know-how and emphasis on quality control is a key ingredient and our motivated workforce willinglyupholdstheseworkethics–that’swhatsetsus apart in this tough industry,” Tasha tells us.

Accurate costingOn a more serious note Craig tells us that the water-proofingmarketisatoughonetobeinandcontractorsareinfiercecompetitiontogetwaterproofingjobs.This often leads to price wars where one contractor slashes prices and tries to win the job by being the cheapest.“This hurts the whole industry and causes some very serious problems. Firstly, a contractor that undercuts prices will probably have to cut quality of materials and rely on unskilled workers to do the job in order tomakejustalittlebitofprofit.Secondly,itresultsinsome contractors doing the job at a loss and this makes itdifficultforsmalloperatorstosurvive,”saysCraig.He says that for this reason Design Waterproofingnever gets involved in price wars, but rather carefully and accurately costs the project, quotes and makes the customer aware of exactly what they are pay-ingfor.“Mostcustomerswantthejobdonerightfirsttime and we often win contracts where we are not the cheapest, but rather offer the customer the best solution at the right price,” he adds.

Advice to others“We have built our reputation on quality. Instead of

competing on price we rather focus on quality and expertise. As a result we are not the cheapest, but we like to believe, we are the best.“My advice to other contractors is to learn how to work out true costs including material, labour, time and equipment needed and to give the client a detailed and accurate quotation. That way you can work on the most important aspects of the job, like quality, customer service, professionalism and excel-lence,” says Tasha.She adds contractors that get that right will build the foundations of success and run a reputable business that can survive through the good and bad times – justlikeDesignWaterproofing.

Best productsTasha and Craig pay careful attention to using the right products for the right job. Craig notices the advertforabewaterproofingproductsinthelatestcopy of “Skills On Site” and tells us that he swears by manyofthatcompany’sproducts.“Companies like abe have brilliant products that are perfect for the jobs that they are intended for. Many contractors, however, don’t follow the instructionson the packaging and that is another big problem in the industry.“For this reason we work closely with our suppliers and if wehaveaproblemthatwedon’tknowhowtofixwecan pick up the phone and call the experts. Abe and our other suppliers are always willing to give us profes-sional advice - directly from the people that make the products–that’sthebestwaytodoit,”Craigsays.

Earned respectWhen they started the business four years ago the operation was run from their house with the help of threeemployees.Today,DesignWaterproofingSystemsemploys40staff,ownsfivebakkiesandisrunfromawarehouse in Honeydew, Johannesburg.The company has done work for some of the biggest contractingfirmsinthecountrysuchasWBHO,Tiber,Afhco and others. Some of the best examples of their recentwaterproofingworkareattheOraclebuildingin Woodmead and the big factory of Best Plastics in West Turfontein.Tasha has earned the respect of workers and cus-tomers alike who are sometimes sceptical when they firstseeawomandoingsiteassessmentsorworkingon site, but soon see that this lady has the technical know-howandabilitytodothejobright,firsttime.Design Waterproofing, Tasha and Craig Napier, Tel: (011) 794 7395, Fax: 086 520 0261, Email: [email protected], Web: www.designwaterproofing.co.za

Craig (on the right) with members of staff


http://www.designwaterproofing.co.za


LEADING INFO

These statistics are provided exclusively for Skills on Site readers by Databuild, the leading provider of construction related information in South Africa. Databuild has been providing information for thirty five years and tracks projects from

planning through to awarded stages. Each month Databuild will provide statistics reflecting trends in the industry. For more information about Databuild please contact us on (011) 259-4500 or visit us at www.databuild.co.za

Value of awarded projects by province in Rmillions July 2011Province Value RmEastern Cape 993

Free State 113

Gauteng 1466

Kwazulu Natal 631

Limpopo 1302

Mpumalanga 744

North West Province 203

Northern Cape 692

Western Cape 769

Grand Total 6912

Grade 1 Value Rm Grade 2 Value Rm Grade 3 Value Rm Grade 4 Value Rm Grade 5 Value RmEastern Cape 2 0.5 11 14.9 5 15.4 8 56.8

Free State 3 7.8 1 3.6 1 7.3

Gauteng 5 1.1 16 24.1 6 17.2 9 38.7

Kwazulu Natal 1 0.4 10 5.9 28 36.0 14 42.0 22 104.7

Limpopo 6 5.7 4 7.8 21 73.4 19 115.2

Mpumalanga 1 0.5 3 2.1 4 1.5 3 6.1 1 4.6

North West Province

6 7.6 1 4.2 6 15.3 5 21.3

Northern Cape 2 0.7 2 1.5 1 2.5 4 21.3

Western Cape 1 1.4 7 12.6 12 13.3 11 29.7 8 36.8

3 2.3 41 36.1 81 111.0 68 205.1 77 406.8

30

http://www.databuild.co.za

www.buildmind.net


The servicing of the stands is already at an advanced stage, with the civil engineering works having been completed late in 2010. The stands will become transferable to the individual purchasers and construction of

new affordable homes will commence on a plot and plan basis.

JFS has allocated stands to a number of top structure developers who are offering complete housing pack-ages starting at R375 000 for a 40 square metre house (stand and house, fully inclusive of all costs) up to just underR600000fora90squaremetrehouse.Thefinalpackage price is dependent on the individual house specificationandfinishesselected.The development is located close to a number of schools, different transport routes, churches and shops, with West Gate Shopping Centre approximately a 10 minute drive away. The top structure developers to whom JFS have sold stands are extremely excited about the market in the area, stating that the lack of suitably priced stands, and the large market de-mands, in the western areas of Johannesburg have resulted in quick sales.“Nedbank Corporate Property Finance: Affordable Housing is excited to be involved in this development with JFS” says Manie Annandale, Head: Nedbank Corporate Property Finance Affordable Housing.

“The developers have shown a sound knowledge of the needs of the market, development procedures and technical matters relating to the industry. JFS, established some 20 years ago have always focused on providing affordable entry level bonded housing and have to date completed a number of cluster housing projects, student accommodation, sectional title apartments, industrial, affordable housing (over 7 000 stands) and RDP townships (some 10 000 stands). They also have a lot of future affordable residential projects and are currently marketing stands in eleven different projects throughout the Gauteng and Mpumalanga provinces. “What is particularly important about this development is that the site also uses existing local infrastructure close-by. This means that eventual home owners will have access to these facilities,” says Manie.Nedbank Corporate Property Finance Affordable Housing, Manie Annandale, Tel: (011) 295 6647, Email: [email protected]

Manie Annandale

Nedbank Corporate Property Finance: Affordable Housing recently announced that it has provided a R24.5 million loan to Johannesburg Financial Securities Group (JFS) for the establishment and servicing of 230 affordable residential stands in Groblerpark, Roodepoort.

Funding Affordable Houses

FINANCE



Advanced Materials Today September 2007 �9

AMT Sept 07 zin.indd 39 2007/09/11 10:28:49 AM


876543

How To Clean a Paintbrush

PAINTING

No matter if you are a building contractor who occasionally paints or a professional painter, you will need to keep your brushes clean to make sure

that you can use them time and again.

12

Here is a time-proven way of cleaning paint-brushes properly to keep them usable for a long time. You can use the same method for almost any type of paint (or substance) as long as you choose the right solvent (in step two).

Here’s how: Wipe the brush on a rag or paper towel to remove as much paint as possible. Rinse the brush in the correct solvent. It's okay to use the dirty water from your painting session:• Usemineralspiritsformostoil-basedpaints.• Usewaterforwater-basedpaintsandalsomostwhite glues and wood glues.• Usedenaturedalcoholforshellac. Check the product's label if you're not sure what to use. Wipe the brush again with a rag to remove any remaining solvent. You may skip this step if the solvent is water. Pick up a bar of plain soap in one hand and brush it with the paintbrush using your other hand, working the soap into the bristles. Liquid soap works, too. Just put a little into the palm of your hand. Rinse the brush under running water. You may want torubthebristlesbetweenyourfingers,butbeverygentle with sable brushes. Repeat steps 4 and 6 until the soap bubbles are white and the water rinses clear. When the brush is clean, shake or blot out the extra water. Reshape the bristles to the correct form, then store the brush upright in a container so that the bristles are not deformed when dry. Then your brush is clean and ready to use!

Tips• Leaving your brushes insolvent all the time will shorten their life.• Ifyouareusingwaterbasedpaintandthecolourisdark,youmayfindthatalthough cleaned, the bristles still feel "greasy", and the brush feels like it is still full of paint. That's becauseitis!Tofixthis,clean the brush in thin-ners (mineral spirits). • Donotleaveabrushon its bristles or in wa-ter. Instead, wrap a paper towel around the bristles, fold the end under, and lay it flatuntilitdries.• If youuseacrylic,acetone (nailpaint remover)can be used to save a dried up brush. Simply soak it for a minute or two in acetone, than wash off with soap. Repeat till the bristles are soft and clean.

Things you’ll need• Usedpaintbrush• Solventforpaintused• Soap• Water• Ragsorpapertowels

Warnings• Evenifyouuseturpentineforyouroil-painting,you should use mineral spirits for the solvent. It's much less poisonous.• Don'tforgettowashyourhandsaftercleaningyour brushes.


Fortunately for us, he never enjoyed one.

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All Nkosi Johnsonever wanted was anormal childhood.


TRANSPORT

When working on the Manguang mixed use transport facility, one of the biggest projectsBloemfontein’slocalmunicipal-ity has undertaken in recent years, the

company used some creative crane positioning to get the job done quickly and to schedule.Due to practical and operational constraints during the major concrete work, two tower cranes with a reach of 60m had to be positioned inside the build-ing footprint and construction had to take place around the cranes. Once the work was completed, the cranes were dismantled and removed and the remaining openings closed up. Thisdifficultoperationwasperformedwithinatighttime constraint using a 450 ton mobile crane, which

Creative Construction planVela VKE recently showed how to overcome challenges when building massive structures, particularly when it comes to mixed use transport facilities with somewhat different requirements to normal building structures.

certainlycaughtthepublic’sattention.Thetwotowercranes were dismantled and on their way back to Gauteng within four days.The Intermodal Facility has already become a well-known landmark and both the public and those involvedintheconstructionlookforwardtothefinalcompletion of the project. This 50 000 m² multi-story concrete building will include ranking and holding facilities for local transport, formal and informal retail as well as management offices.Theproject,whichstartedinMay2009,willbe completed in 2011.Vela VKE Consulting Engineers, Ivan Jacobs, Tel: (051) 447-9816, Email: [email protected]

Vela VKE positioned cranes inside the transport hub building during construction

As work progressed the cranes effectively built themselves into the building

The Manguang Intermodal Transport Facility nears completion

Once work was com-pleted the cranes where taken apart and removed from the site and all openings where they had stood were closed

Fortunately for us, he never enjoyed one.

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LIFT TRUCKCOMPANY

www.goscorlifttrucks.co.za


LIFT TRUCKCOMPANY

In TouchPPC assists the community of Swartland in education buildingAs part of its social commitment to invest in the com-munities that they operate in, Pretoria Portland Ce-ment (PPC) has invested R3.5 million to the Swartland “Path Out of Poverty (POP) Youth Centre” Project in Riebeek West.

will serve the Riebeek West community and other surrounding communities, and will operate seven days a week and also be utilised for meetings and functions as required.

Secure employmentGeneral Manager at PPC Riebeeck, Frikkie Van Zyl, said that PPC is proud to partner with the youth cen-tre, as it will afford the children and youth of Riebeek

West the opportunity to alleviate rural poverty. "Through our Social Labour Plans and Corporate So-cial Investment initiatives, PPC continues to make a significantcontributiontothe lives of South Africans. Focussing on, job creation, skills development and education, PPC remains dedicated to empower the communities in which we operate," he adds.With unemployment being one of many social chal-lenges in the region, the Goedgedacht Trust will be focusing its successful POP youth development programme where the major emphasis is put on education, health, personal development

and enabling young people to secure employment in the future.

Real transformationReal transformation begins in communities such as Swartland where there is a huge need to create sus-tainable empowerment via socio-economic upliftment projects. The leading supplier of cement in Southern Africa, PPC also remains committed to the national broad-based socio-economic transformation objec-tives of South Africa beyond 2014."PPC's transformation path continues to be guided by our real transformation philosophy, which is at the heart of all our initiatives and refers to transformation that is relevant, empowering, actualised and lasting. This is the reason why we are proud to be involved in this initiative, which is just one example of PPC's ongoing commitment to improving the lives of South African communities," commented Van Zyl.PPC Cement, Nomzamo Khanyile, 082-870-4235, Email: [email protected]

PPC and its partners, the Goedgedacht Trust, the Department of Mineral Resources and the Swartland Municipalityhaveofficiallyopenedthenewcentre,a project which is part of PPC Riebeeck's Local Eco-nomic Development (LED) programme. The event took place at the centre in Riebeek West, Swartland Municipality, Western Cape.The Youth/POP Centre was built in an effort to help break the cycles of rural poverty, thus turning Riebeek West into an economically sustainable community. The centre will house a gym, an after-school project, educational facilities such as a library, a computer technology centre and a trauma room that will be used in a partnership with the Valley Empowerment Project and the local SAPS to provide counselling to victims of crime.Courses provided will include life skills, youth leadership programmes,healthandfitness,culturalexchangeprogrammes, drama, choir and music. The centre



In Touch

New classrooms for learnersRobor, the largest tube and pipe manufacturer in Southern Africa, handed over newly-built classrooms to the Sizwe Secondary School in Elandsfontein recently. Theproject,runbyRoboraspartofthecompany’scorporate social responsibility (CSI) initiative, is aimed at improving educational facilities in the com-munities surrounding Robor, where poor infra-structurehasbeenanon-goingdifficulty.This initiative follows a series of improvements Robor has undertaken at underprivileged schools within the surrounding Elandsfontein area. “Since 2009, Robor has invested in upgrades at the Klopperpark Primary School and at the Sizwe Secondary School, where broken windows, leaking roofs, inadequate gutters, poor ablution facilitiesandinsufficientnumbersofclassroomspersistently affected the quality of education in the region,” says Gordon Gilmer, Robor CEO. Robor staff, parents and learners from the school volunteered for a clean-up day, which saw a marvellous improvement in the general school buildings and surrounds. In 2011, involvement

by Robor has seen the company construct a number of additional classrooms at Sizwe Sec-ondary School. Before Robor became involved, Headmaster Mandla Cele single-handedly made a considerable improve-ment to the attitude and morale of the pupils attending Sizwe Sec-ondary School. “With the construction of ad-ditional classrooms and improvements of existing buildings, Robor aims to help Cele realise his vision of improving the school’sstandardsandraising the matric pass rate to a level of excel-lence,” says Gordon.Some companies in the area have been approached to come on board with Robor, thereby enhancing the impact of these much

needed projects. “Robor would like to extend a chal-lenge to all other companies within the Elandsfontein and surrounding areas to also make giving back to the community a top priority,” concludes Gordon.Robor, Sundrie Naidoo, Tel: (011) 971 1600, Fax: (011) 392 4435, Email: [email protected], Web: www.robor.co.za


http://www.robor.co.za


TEL:(011) 873-1266 FAX:(011) 873-3464www.academybrush.co.za [email protected]

“Giving you a Quality start for a Quality Finish”

http://www.academybrush.co.za


www.academybrush.co.za


Toyota Forklift is the global market leader in materials handling equipment with a reputation for safety & efficiency, innovative research & development and quality products…

AND helping you reach new heights

taking you to new heights

TEL : +27 (0) 11 395 0600 EMAIL : [email protected] WEB : www.eiegroup.co.za


http://www.eiegroup.co.za

www.eiegroup.co.za

skills on site september 2011

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