₦airaland Forum

n3xt:
Hajji, you really don't know Brabus.

Just about 30 minutes ago, one of my client here that we have heated argument on her project which we did between 2011 and 2013 called me for a project after leaving me an email to feel my pulse.

I replied and asked her to call my line. She greeted and I replied.

She then asked "Aren't you surprised to receive a call from me after all that happened" I quickly cut in "after all that happened yesterday." Then I say "Hey mama, today is a new day what's up for grab"
She said "I was discussing with my sister about a plan to do XYZ and the only that came to my mind is yours and I'll like to know if you'll consider this because you already knew my style - what works and what doesn't."

The past is past. Nobody can ever find me there even if they keep searching till eternity. Do you know why? It's because I'm quick to forgive and let go so that I can enjoy my life in peace. I told the madam that if you're my wife and there's an issue "do you think I'll spend all my life fighting it or move on with my life." I don't know how comfortable I'll be sulking all the days of my life over what can never be undone.



Brabus

Many respect for leadership style on this forum. E o ni d'agba iya o.

Again Brabus,

While it is good to "move-on" and put the past behind us...... what l would have loved to be hearing from you more often, is in the mould of " I have learned lessons from the mistakes l made in the past, l have reformed and have become better than YESTERDAY such that my Clients can be assured TODAY that Brabus will more than bring smiles to their face"!

The two statements are NOT the same thing!

The one you made in your post sounds like "Well, l dont really care and l am not perturbed...... you can bring the job if you dont mind taking the risk"
While the one l wrote (if it comes from you) will make everyone comfortable with you, accept you despite the past errors and be confident that they can rely on you because you have dealt with and come to terms with the past".
This is the impression l want you to always leave in the mind of past and present "possible" Clients.
Some affected Clients may have to suffer over these "errors" for a long time to come, (even though it cannot be undone forever as you put it) but l dont think they would be happy to hear it from you, the way it comes across. This is where "knowing the right words to say, when to say it and how to say it, come-in"

We should NEVER assume that we are indispensable! No one is!

You are very fortunate... though hardworking!
But "Rewards" in life are not "directly proportional" to the level of Hard-work we do otherwise, the artisans should be on the Forbes list!
It is God that blesses and for those like us who are very "fortunate beneficiaries" of God's blessings, Humility and thankfulness should be our watchword!

keeping getting better, may God guide and assist you in that quest.





Lastpage!

@Hajj M: Stop "reverse-engineering" my prayer! I was the first to say l want to be like you ....when l grow up!
You are one of the people l look up to, especially in the area of maturity, on this thread.

write2obi:
Let me make my point once more, brabus made mistakes, alright, and from his actions he is obviously sorry, why can't we we all forgive and move on.

FastShipping:
One thing I won't do is to get into childish unending character assassination that goes on here or destroy someone's livelihood. This life is good and the bad. You take each one as they come.

When Brabus saga came up few times, I voiced my opinions and displeasure and moved on. One thing I won't do is to come here on daily basis and act like a girl who got jilted.
For those who want me to mention name, sorry I won't. .

mufutau55:
Everything FastShipping wrote in his earlier narratives is TRUE.

I was involved big time, I spent countless hours on the phone with the said Nairalander after FastShipping contacted me.
We all have the way we deal issues in our life, I have to respect FastShipping decision not to go public and especially when a
family member is involved.

I have never come to this forum and opened any "can of worm" (on) any anyone.

I wanted to go public but FastShipping pleaded not to,...... so he thought the guy will learn from his mistake.

I have received several inquiries about the same Nairalander after the FastShipping incidents and I have always told the inquirers the full story and
why they need to stay away from the person.


Just a hint from FastShipping message, the person is a so-called Roofer. Thank you.

Hajji M.

I have culled this three responses, to shed light on this discussion.
I have asked a question in my previous post (which probably started this discussion today): Why have we not seen Hajj M come here to called someone a fraud and attack him the way some are doing endlessly, despite been aware of what is going-on?
I suggested it was due to MATURITY.... and Hajj's post above has vindicated me on that.

Now, let me say a few things that would nto go down with some people on this thread:
We are all different...in so many ways. Some are here just to ridicule others. some are here just to inflate their tiny ego! Some are here just to 'dance the flow'. Some are here to share their wealth of experience. Some are here to learn. Some are here to "validate" their insecurity. Some are here to 'feel among' and love to "gang-up" against others. Some are l little bit of some of the things...... but no one here can claim PERFECTION. We all know were we fall.

Having said that, we need to distinguish between a few things:
1.) "exposing a fraud/Criminal/Charlatan" Contractors (Which l agree is good and necessary). The only way to prevent them from scamming
someone else is to expose them.

2.) Character Assassination: This have two dimensions in defining it.

a) General/English definition: the act of saying false things about a person usually in order to make the public stop liking or trusting that person. It is also the slandering of a person, usually with the intention of destroying public confidence in that person

b.) Legal Definition: Character Assassination refers to the slandering or vicious personal verbal attack on a person with the intention of destroying or damaging that person’s reputation or confidence. In other words it is malicious verbal assaults designed to damage or tarnish the reputation of a person. Once done, these acts are often difficult to reverse or rectify. Therefore it is likened to a literal assassination of a human life. The damage sustained can last a lifetime or, for historical figures and important personalities, for many centuries after their death.

It involves a deliberate attempt to destroy a person's reputation, especially by criticizing them in an unfair and dishonest way when they are not present. It can also involve exaggeration or manipulation of facts to present an untrue picture of the targeted person, double speak, spreading of rumors, innuendo or deliberate misinformation on topics relating to the subject's morals, integrity, and reputation. It is a form of defamation.

3.) Exposure with intent to warn others and to assist the "accused Contractor to turn a new leaf": In this instance, the aggrieved Client will expose the Contractor so as to warn others but will at the same time, leave room for the Contractor to confess his sins, ask for forgiveness and promise to not repeat such in future and to get better! This type of "EXPOSURE or not keeping quiet", benefits everyone and up-builds us as humans.

Now, looking at the definitions above, you will agree with me that a WICKED, FRAUDULENT CONTRACTOR cannot claim that "his character is being assassinated", when he is EXPOSED to the public, by an aggrieved Client.

But you will also agree that Character assassination, goes beyond JUST EXPOSING the criminal contractor, so as to warn others... it involves taking additional and further steps to COMPLETELY DESTROY THE PERSON, for personal and wicked reasons. More like the "Legal Definition".

This is what some of us here want to do to Brabus. Some of us here want to completely KILL HIM! That is not what a decent humanbeing should do.
*Yes, you expose him so that others will "keep their eyes open" when dealing with him.
*You expose him so that he knows people are watching him
*You give him the opportunity to "reform and turn a new leaf" (One of the reasons l keep jumping on Brabus's back, from time to time, with "encouraging comments", because l want him to get better
*You ask him to come clean, make amends and even help him to get better.

What you need not do is keep tarnishing his image for MONTHS, keep "assassinating" his personality" (Some even carry this on their head when they have never given him a job to do, cry more than the bereaved and generally just want to KILL HIM and his Family).

The question is: WHY... and what do you gain from totally destroying a young man... because he made mistakes!


Let me say this here: A lot of us would have made some of the mistakes Brabus or some other Contractors made if not that "we learned from their own mistakes and improved on it". So, their mistake is our own benefit, somehow.

There are people here how dont know "jack" about construction and stylishly ask questions because they are too arrogant o agree they dont know "jack" ... yet they are the "leaders and champion" of the "crucify-him-brigade"! What smelly hypocrisy is that?

I dont want to focus on Brabus per say but l know that he is refunding the money of the fake approval back to Maverick! That is a positive
I know that he is in discussion with Qc-1, on how to correct the problems in that building and salvage the situation. That is a positive
But l have a problem with him trying to defend himself too much, at all cost, with some hint of arrogance that upsets the Client and everyone else.
*We have told him this in no uncertain terms but does that mean we should DESTROY HIM COMPLETELY?
*Does that mean we should ensure he never has any job again?
*Does that mean we should ensure his family cant be fed again?
*Does that mean we should not "let go" fo the name-calling and try to help him improve by keeping and eye on him and encouraging him?

What people dont realize is that at times, people behave better when they know that "they have been forgiven and much is expected of them".
It is a process l use on my own children (sorry to use that example, no disrespect to adult people here). You do something terrible, l "word you very well" but wont punish you.. when yo are expecting me to punish you! I just tell you to go and "correct yourself and convince me that l should not punish you"! Surprisingly, the child! wants to impress me at all cost and in the process, gets better by the day.

That is why l quoted what @write2obi said above.

EXPOSE, CRITICISE, .... BUT KNOW "WHEN TO STOP",...... BEFORE IT TURNS TO CHARACTER ASSASSINATION.

If the offender is ready to turn a new leaf (after mentioning his name to everyone or some matured people... who in-turn will keep a close eye on him, ensuring that he is really improving and not doing the same scam again), why then do we need to "kill him"?
Like Jesus said: He who is without blemish, should cast the first stone! (I still insist on mentioning the name IMMEDIATELY the Fraud occurs).

In real life, some of us are worse than the hypocritical stance we portray on this faceless column. You can see as much as that from what they write, if you are very perceptive.

So, let us lay-off Brabus matter, let us keep an eye on him and any other person but dont let us assassinate their character, in the legal sense of it.
We are all imperfect and we are all learners but we must be truthful, upright and strive to be good.




Lastpage!

PS: If anyone misinterpret my stance as supporting fraud, it is their own comprehension level and they are entitled to it. I will expose fraud but will not assassinate the person completely. Humans can reform, if given the chance

Lionsclaw:
So because certificate has done more harm than good we should allow buhari to rule without the basic requirement of certificate abi? So what will you call that if not the same corruption he says he is fighting?

"Corruption" is fought in a COURT of LAW.

Go to court and stop #Wailing unnecessarily all over the internet.

We cant help your case, here on Nairaland.

Buhari is already ruling.... Certificate or not, he was ELECTED by the MAJORITY.
Deal with that.




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seunmsg:
Oga FFK, you better return our money and stop the grandstanding. Metuh said more than this and today, members of his family are begging to return the money he collected just to stop his trial. Be wise now, do the needful before it is too late. Buhari got no chill, he will ensure you are jailed for the money you looted if you don't return it in time.

These Criminals are no longer ashamed nor afraid o!

I was expecting that he would vehemently DENY that he colleted any money and that Buhari is just A WITCH! "Witch-hunting" him.

But just listen to the audacity with which his only defence is that "I dont know where the money came from".... yet you took it and lodged it into your won bank account?

Honestly, until we impose death penalty (like China) on people like Nnemadi, FFK, Dasuki, Metuh, e.t.c... who loot the assets of all Nigerians, this people will think we are just playing with them.

ofcourse, their boy-boys will come here and start talking at "angle 75" ... to what we are talking about: LOOTING!



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babalose:
What are the pros and cons of complete exterior house cladding other than aesthetics? I often see its not well embraced in Nigeria. Must our houses look almost the same. You can drive round neighborhood after neighborhood with a WOW factor.

What l hate most about the Western World, especially the UK and Ireland, is the "same bored look" of the streets where all the houses look exactly alike! Mind you, they are neat and well-built but in terms of "aesthetics, innovativeness and imagination", its a uninteresting.

Use to tell a friend that if he comes to Nigeria, he would see different types of houses on the same street and that we are free to build ANY STYLE we like! he was like "It cant be true"!

We may still be on the low/middle level, but ON THE AVERAGE, l think Nigeria has some of the most classic private-owner houses world wide.
I would hate my neighbour to build his house exactly like mine..... even though l may not have a valid reason to prevent such.



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Happykay:
The best saving anyone can make is to use prudent and qualified builders
And avoid n3xt/brabus like a plaque
You are only good in Internet pix and building sinking houses

Let it roll Brus!

No one is perfect, the important thing is to accept your mistakes, Repent, seek forgiveness and make recompense..... all these l think he is currently doing or trying to do .

It takes a bold person to not study building in College/Uni/Poly, to start building for others!
Its a challenge and l can tell you, MISTAKES (which l agree are costly to the home owner) WILL BE MADE....LESSONS WILL BE LEARNED AND IMPROVEMENT (if you are a naturally intelligent person), ....will follow.
I insist Brabus is learning, getting better, he just needs to clam down and not be overly ambitious or trying to run, before you are perfect at walking. Step-by-step....gives long-life!

The only thing l hate most about Brabus is his need to always think "I need to defend myself,... at all times"! Too self-conscious!!
It is not always necessary. Infact, "you can disarm your worst enemy with uncommon humility".

Just accept the complain/fault...then follow it with "Oga, how can l rectify it to your satisfaction"? (It does not mean the Client will insist you foot the whole bill or even some of it, most Clients are 'super-generous' when it comes to correcting errors in their build because they want it "perfect and done now".).. and it does not mean you are stewpid!

My Dad use to use one phrase: "He STOOPED to (so that he can) CONQUER"! yes, at times, you need to "stoop", so you can conquer challenges that come your way.

My Mum also has these 'annoying' phrase she uses: E'je kape werey l'oko iyawo, kole je ka'mi!
(Let us call a madman "Happily married man", so he can let us have peace"!)

In those two phrases you will see a lot of humility, intelligence and success!

Now, as for us the "concerned parties" we are right to be miffed but we should also note that we cannot cry more than the bereaved!
If we make excessive wahala today, and then we see the Client and Brabus even come together and abuse us later (Wetin be your own or wetin concern you sef, no be my money, uhh?).... how would that feel?

Does anyone notice that @Hajj M has not gone "all out" to attack Brabus?
WHY? Or do you think he is not also annoyed? It is called maturity!
Knowing when to take a step back and let it lie.

Moreover, in life, their is something called KARMA! We will all reap whatever we sow.... except we "seek and get" the forgiveness of anyone we aggrieve.
Its a fact of nature, whether you believe it or not.

So, let us please stop making too much allusion to what happened... except where the aggrieved Client has reason to "raise-up" the issue due to new errors or non adherence to agreed templates. let us also try (l said 'try' because its not always easy ) to dessist from inflammatory language.
Infact, l have decided that l will stop responding to provocations from people on this thread (I reserve that for Politics section )
I will just ignore it and act like l never even saw it. It wont tear my cloth naah, abi?

Let Peace reign!





Lastpage!

Brabus, your matter don enter prayer point!
You will keeping getting better, by fire by force! Holllyyyy-Ghoost fire! .....F-I-R-E!

n3xt:
@ lastpage,

One day I'll be happy to showcase some of the most beautiful architectural designs of the 50s - 80s on this thread. It's all in my dads collection and they're lovely.

Funny enough, this old guys too do modelling but it's always an artistic impression back then. Lovely stuffs!

Chairman,

Have you not noticed that what was 'standard' in those days, is what is trending now, fifty years later?
For example, look at the Pillars and window artworks... our Family House build in the 50's, in Yaba area, has those same window-sill designs and roman-type pillars!

Its just like fashion, ....it goes round in "circles and cycles".

What we do now is that we have found ways to improve on what they did, using modern methods/technology.
For example, their Pillars and designs in those days were pure and solid concrete mix.... nowadays, we have found ways to just do a "wrap-around" of the same design, with a hollow or void centre!

In doing so, we have reduced cost and weight. E be like say we sharp pass them, abi?




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n3xt:
Baba, you know how you do it back then. That shelf where you have all the encyclopedia, dicos and big books in the house. I just want to feel among na.

Those old school part is something I can never part with. Let technology advance to voiceless communication where you can read a book from the authors mind

I'll still like to keep those stuff for good references. That's why I'm not in bed with Siri or Cortana.


Do you know I still keep some good number of drawing sheets at home and office for sketches especially when dealing with junior architects? I always tell them to sketch it out on paper first then we get it into the system.

Oga Brabus,

I know exactly what you mean!
Its gives an "intellectual feeling" and touching it physically gives 'life' to it as well.......

I was a Library prefect in Sec. School and l am very comfortable with Shelf-ed Books.
I have a Library at home but over time, l am trying to digitalize as many Books as l can.... while not trying to acquire new "Paperback" Textbooks.

There are whole ranges of novels l have read as far back as the early 70's that l have found their Electronic Copies online, and have saved them.
You know our "children of today" who were born with "Laptops, Memory Sticks, Kindle and Ipad"...... l have this morbid fear of what they would do to my Paperbacks, when l am gone!

I wish l can take my books along! (Not like burying them with me sha, that would be silly! )



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ajibsca:
Glad to know somebody is thinking in the same direction. What actually inspired my thought on Solar water pump system is the fact that I once did a project and didnt do the borehole at the beginning meaning I had to purchase water from water tanker drivers and also get water from neighbors to build the building which cost money and sometimes the neighbors would refuse giving water to the workers because they havent pumped water or they have no water etc. clean water is a basic essential commodity so I have made up my mind to do a solar powered water pump system just outside my house running on complete solar for consumption of the public. I think that is the only way I can give back to my community. My personal opinion though.

Very kind and thoughtful of you! May God bless you more and more

Infact, you have inspired me and l will do the same to as many areas l know, that dont have constant water supply, that l can afford.

God-willing, one Borehole per year (approximately 250K l suppose), l am/should be able to afford.

Thanks for leading the way!





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gabbytabby:
It all starts from the architectural design. A few years back I was comparing blocks needed with Brabus and the walls seperating two flats his had more than double mine. My question finding where we can save cost while still meeting our objective as always no compromise on safety and structural integrity.

Piecemeal generally will add to the cost of the build. Set a tentative completion date having in mind external omonile and other disturbances.

Find 1-3 critical workers consider PRP payable on completion. Are you in a habit of saying what you mean and doing what you say cos if they do not believe you will pay on completion then it means nothing.

I will complete tomorrow as off to bed now.



s

Thanks a lot Madam, for finding the time to reply, l appreciate it.
You've said a lot in a few paragraphs and l've gained from it.

Sweet dreams.



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n3xt:
So you read Seeley's stuffs too. Those guys are just too good.

Maybe we start exchanging collections soon. An architect on here took my Boutique/Shop design catalogue and never bother to return it back.

One of the reasons l am a fan of Electronic Copy of books!

What l will lend you is a downloadable "E-copy"...... and you can keep it!

And it also ensures that l can keep them for ages, without occupying any significant space



Lastpage!

n3xt:
@ lastpage, I think you'll find this book very interesting.

Building Services Handbook | Incorporating Current Building & Construction Regulations by Fred Hall & Roger Greeno

It's large print and I know you'll find it very informative.

Thanks Bro,...

now l can enjoy my annual leave while reading something educative!



Lastpage!

abdulwastecx:
I may disagree with some of these points

The most comon roof truss Materials are angle bar, rectangular hollow section, universal beam etc.
The minimum angle bar that can be used for roof truss is 50x50x5mm, this cost about N2,5000 per 5.5m that is around N450/m of angle bar compare to hard wood like apuntu or mahogany that cost about N450 for a 3 to 3.3m with a section of 100mm 50mm, that is N136 per meter

Some roof wood don't rust when treated, wood like apuntu, mahogany never rust or affected by termites.

Wood can be designed to have connectors like steel, if this is done the wood can be re used.

Wooden truss is considerably lighter than steel because wood have lower density when we'll seasoned than steel.

Wood truss can be more flexible for complex roof pattern.

Wood truss is easier and faster to construct compare to roof truss, hence it cost more initially to construct steel trust.

Some certain roofing sheet type can't easily by fixed on steel roof, roofing sheet like step tiles.

The z purlin commonly use in steel roof is much more expensive than the 75x 50mm commonly use in wooden roof

Thanks Abdulwastexc,

Until Brabus or anyone can prove the opposite of what you wrote above (Economics and Weight), l will still err on the side of Wood, over iron.

But then, nothing is impossible, ... impossible is nothing, we just need to keep an open mind.

There probably may be, COMPOSITE materials that we are not yet aware of, which have the strength of steel and the 'light weight' of Aluminium, whose production / manufacturing process has made or will make the 'economics' affordable now or in the nearest future.




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amzee:
Some of the tips are right while some are wrong. Contact me on +2348097886768 for any car a/c related issue.

You sound more like Fraud!

Why dont you first, point out what is wrong in what the post said.......... then tell us 'what is right', before asking anyone to contact you so you can defraud them of their money?




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n3xt:
As I type, I've sent the template of the Aluminium parapet I did in 2014 to China to produce a polycarbonate version which can just be bolted to the 2*2 noggin on the roofing woodwork.

The aluminum is too expensive. We need a better and cheaper alternative so I want to explore the cost of using polycarbonate and fiber.


You see you 2*2 stuff on my roof done in 2014. We hanged the parapets on them.



PM Seen. I'll respond.

You be Agbayaa!

When the thing comes back from China, please let us know.

I love the way ideas are spinning out (instead of the rancour that feeds some).
Way to go.



Lastpage!

E go better!



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n3xt:
I just played the devils advocate on you Baba with the 2 x 2 stuff.

I function well in those thought provoking debates and discussions.

+2348023429122 (Whatsapp)

We are All good!
I learned from the contributions.... and thank all those who did not play "DEVIL" .....like you!

Let me 'time-out' small.



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n3xt:
We shall overcome.

I'll be expecting your PM and I believe one day Nairaland Properties will be recognized in Nigeria as a force to reckon with on innovative ideas.

We all need to work together to make Naija great again.

A lot of thing (especially Rebuilding NextHome) is taking a toll on me cos I run a one-man show now hence the reason people don't always meet me at the office couple with the fact that banks and multinationals are retrenching so "who born my monkey" to dey show himself at this moment.

But trust me baba, I'm up for this creative thoughts and I have a very good platform to put them into practice.

Do you still remember the Parapet Steel Mould I shared some years ago? You can just produce parapet without the usual headaches and worries of carpentary work. No woods. No carpentary work. These are the kind of things I love.

Life is made-up of "Ups and Downs"!

In the midst of all these "cries" about the economy and dollars, some are doing what they have never done before,wanted to do but dont have the money, .......NOW!
Its the blessings of God that counts!

Brighter days will soon show face but it is only those who are "expecting it... and are ready", that can take full advantage of it before every Jones try to catch-in as well, when the Horse has already bolted!
Its like the Stock market, the Muguns who come later, will pay the price and lick their wounds!

I assume you have the intention of using "Concrete Morta"r in that Steel, Parapet Mould you made?
As a suggestion, why dont you "injection-mould" plastic or some other light weight materials into it and produce, light-weight, beautiful and cheap Parapet that everyone can buy..... and you make your money on the "Volume sales"?
I just hate the additional weight of a concrete parapet.... and it is not even necessary to be that heavy!

Do you remember the one Abdulwastecx showed me here on this thread?, l am thinking along similar lines.



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PM Sent.

mufutau55:
You are definitely right in all cases and the explanations are good. But what else can we use if not mortar for the hollow blocks we are using?
What are the alternatives... not the blocks but the mortar.

Hajji M.

There are no alternatives to the Mortar, which are economical, that l know of (use of GUM is one but it is not economical, especially with our present state of doing things).

We then have to take a second look at the Hollow blocks themselves.

* Can we make them more straight and to very specific sizes (length and thickness)
* l also mentioned in one of my previous posts on this thread that with a tool like the "Bricky tool", with a little more tweaking, l can device a means of adapting it to Hollow blocks such that the Mortar is prevented from dropping into the holes.

That will finally nail it and makes the job faster, easier and cheaper



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alakara:
watermark ur pics with ur phone nos

Sir,
Watermarks are easily removed with appropriate software!

But l think it is appropriate to seek permission to use and give credit to the original owner of a picture, before using it to promote your own business.



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n3xt:
Honestly, I'm shy to discuss this. I'll rather like to defer to pros but if you insist because I know you'll want to know the secret, I'll fire on.

Meanwhile, here are the positives with using steel for roofing. Abeg, don't just call welders o. There are professional Steel Construction companies that are specialist in this type of Constrcution.


STEEL VS TIMBER

Re-usable (just remove the bolts and remove) versus one-time construct.

Cheap versus Expensive (long term)

Straight versus warped, bended

Non-rotten versus carpenter ant/termite

Light weight versus heavy weight (I'll still proof it)

Incombustible versus combustible

Am loving this!

How can a steel frame roof ... be cheaper than a timber frame roof?

I have a good idea of the riveting, welding and use of aluminium screws to tie down stuffs to it so, that is not important to me.


I understand the "shy" part because you have been getting a lot of stick, even when what you are saying makes a lot of sense, even from peeps who dont know a tenth of what you know but then, ......... now you know why "reputation" is very important.

Ti'iya nla ba gbeni san'le, kee-kee-ke na ama teni lori! (when a man is felled by a big tragedy, inconsequential will take advantage)

Its up to you to chart a new course, ...which l believe you can do / are doing

I try to keep an open mind about everybody (No ganging up!) and quarrel based only on principle/issue-based.

I recall you poked a lot of fun at me, when l started the 2x2 fascia discussion ..... but if you believe in an idea, you should not allow the opinion of others to derail you., even when the idea is still in germination.
"If you can imagine it, you can build it"


We can discuss the details through PM's, if that will open up the details, while we are still fine-tuning and comparing notes.

Should l send you a PM or would you send me one?




Lastpage!

BTW: Have you ever come across a LOCK (or something that fulfils that "Lock-Objective" which can be opened with one or two flicks, which cannot be opened by poking your hand at it from the outside (in cases where the glass partition is broken). I am thinking if l lay my hands on such a lock, l can fabricate a Window Burglary-Proof Iron which will fulfil the the "Security requirement" in preventing Burglary while at the same time fulfil the "Safety requirements" of the house occupant by providing them with an emergency escape route, in case of fire and/or siege.

mufutau55:
Oga mi.

#3 - Agreed, why installed pointed lights? I don't get it either... what about those wall lights installed in four corners of the room?
I argued with my brothers on this too... he said that is the norm. So I agreed but never installed more than two bulbs... not four.
And we no even get light sef, more lights put heavy load on generators.

#2 - It's just good fancy for a residential building at least the precast type, low cost, but rental probably not for me at least...

#1 - This I still don't understand... if mortar is not use for setting blocks, what else can one use... please give me some alternatives and their advantages and disadvantages...

Thanks.

Hajji M.

@Hajji M

I observed a lot of wastage of Mortar, over time, in certain builds l have done and personally supervised.
When they finished laying the Blocks and we had to pack the remnants of mortar of the floor, l was shocked because in one case, we had to use it to just fill some areas of the compound.

In my own opinion, apart from the craftsmanship of the Bricklayer themselves, there are two reasons l noticed

1.) The type of HOLLOW blocks we use in setting walls: Compared to flat blocks, hollow blocks tend to waste mortar a lot, some fall inside the holes, others get pressed out of position on the block below and the "rubbing process" scrapes off the rest, onto the floor

2.) Badly shaped hollow blocks: Having blocks of irregular sizes (abnormal shape, abnormal size, either to thin or sloping, e.t.c) all contribute to mortar wastage as you have to use the mortar to "make-up" for the irregularity, in other to get a straight wall.

If you observe the way Red Bricks are set in foreign lands, you will see that they dont waste Mortar and it is always very neat and straight..... due to the shape and type of Bricks used



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n3xt:
1. I'm putting this into action from tomorrow when we take on our first flat roof project on here. All the water collection points have been linked up in-wall and under the floor to connect to a central water tank for compound and outdoor usage.

2. Again, I'm putting this into play with my ongoing project where bathroom Windows are largely sized for improved lighting and ventilation. I always opt for projected windows or casement in the bathroom and I keep the slightly opened for constant airflow.

3. I really don't think it's about the cost. One thing I've found out is that we always love to find excuse to why an unusual approach may not work. Someone on here said he's considering using Aluminium sheet to clad his walls without the usual plastering and painting hullabaloos and everyone is looking at him like "what a strange man" but in reality this things are practicable and could save us a couple of bucks. I've seen them used in real world.

I knew how hard I tried to convince my client on the advantages of using lightweight steel roof over timber roofing. But luckily, it was a listening client I had this with. I knew some who would have acted differently.

Central water heater to me would seem to work like the overhead tanks we place on our structures. So it shouldn't be a big deal for a creative mind.

As per electricity, the same light that powers small heaters will power the big ones. They're just like the ACs.

Nice stuff!

@Bolded paragraph:

Brabus, talk to me about this light steel roof!

My understanding is that Steel is denser and therefore heavier than wood.
Now, if you have found a way to do the Roof Structure using Steel of some types.... and it is considerably lighter in weight, compared to using Wood, l will be happy if you can oblige me the information.

Type of steel, what makes it comparatively lighter, cost implications compared to using wood and other advantages you have deduced.

Thanks!




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n3xt:
Openable Burglar Proof

I'm seriously working on designing an openable burglar proof with internal locks using stainless steel nets just like slidable window nets.

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There are range which cannot be easily cut with scissors or pliers. I'm actually looking at using Diamond Mesh (good design). There are different range in the market.

Brabus,
I am with you on this quest.

I think the first thing to do, when trying to solve a problem, is to IDENTIFY the problem.

What are we trying to achieve? OBJECTIVE

After that, the next question will be[b] HOW[/b] can we achieve the objective? This is the SOLUTION spectrum

Followed by what is the most ECONOMICAL means of achieving the objective

Finally, we consider the FIT-FOR-PURPOSE test (SAFETY of Occupants), of the proffered solution, in conjunction with the "economics" of the cost, as above

We all agree we are trying to keep out unwanted visitors who chose to pass through the window, instead of using the approved doorway.



We also agreed that we are trying to use[b] PHYSICAL HINDRANCES[/b] placed on the window, to prevent such illegal entry.
Now, such hindrances is is what you are proffering. Other options are Iron/Steel Grills on the window.

So, l ask Is using Diamond Mesh :economical (cost-wise), to using ordinary stainless steel?
Since we are not trying to prevent the entry of mosquitoes (Netting), just a few strong rods should do the job.

If we consider the safety aspect, which l think this is all about, attention should be focused on a mechanism that allows you to remove the hindrance (Burglary-Proof Iron Bars), when needed to do so, while preventing others from being able to do so.

I have been thinking: if we make a window of iron Rods (Square-shaped, size of the window), let it have hinges so it can open inwards and then attach a lock mechanism to it such that it can be opened within two seconds in an emergency.

An alternative to the iron bar is that criss-cross, chain-like iron used on doors (like the Trelis Doors), with the same lock mechanism described above, attached to it .

The area l still cant figure-out is the Lock Mechanism, that can fulfil that purpose.

*Padlocks wont do (Difficult to open in an emergency like fire)

* The common window Latch wont do because the thief can also break the glass window and lift up the latch

*Some Latched windows have keys on the Latch but that will take us back to the Padlock scenario which is not good in dire emergencies.

*Unbreakable glass is expensive and therefore not worth the 'economics'


Do you have any idea on can work?





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I feel sorry for your situation.

First, let me be honest with you: Majority of your problem, has to do with your Landlord!
The new owner is NOT your Landlord because he did not go into any contractual agreement with you.
It is his house and he can decide to renovate/demolish/rebuild it.

The former owner has no right to sell the house during the period ....when he has collected money from you as Rent.
That is fraudulent!
He has collected money from you for the period..he has also collected money, by selling, during the same period.

Now, if you look at the cost of building Materials... infact, the cost of everything in Nigeria, places like Lagos especially, the price of everything has more than DOUBLED in the last one year!
Now, you will realise that if l buy rice at double the price, Tomato at double the price, Transport has tripled, everyone has doubled or triple their price while claiming "DOLLAR HAS RISEN"!

So, will it be reasonable to not expect the house owner to increase his own "market product" (rent) ?
Everyone is "Selling what they have".
It is a "vicious cycle" in Nigeria when we all decide to increase the cost of items, not minding that salaries/income are not increasing.
Everybody is taking advantage of each other.

In my own opinion, your best bet will be to negotiate with your House Owner.
Even the Mediation Center cant compel him to do what you want as he will simply claim he did not rent out his house to you.

Just try and look for an alternative accommodation where the price is affordable and plead with him to give you more time.




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abdulwastecx:
The imposed load/life load is base on the occupancy of the building. These values are standard and you can get them from BS codes (BS6399)

Thanks Abdulwastecx.

I just like the way you really apply theoretical principles, in the physical constructs that you do on the field.
This is what distinguishes a 'trained professional' (in the real sense of the word)... from a DIY/Hobbyist who took to Construction.

More grease to your elbow. When l grow up, maybe l would be able to engage you in the not too distant future.



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abdulwastecx:
Very good question, there are design guide that one can follow to design ribbed slab.

For a lighter rib one can use polystyrene pod instead of the sancrete block or clay block.

Check out this ribbed design calculations done by me some years ago.

Oga Abdulwasteexc,

I noticed you used burnt bricks in the slab for which calculation you showed in that pix.
I guess this is also a good way to reduced slab weight!

BTW, are those "imposed loads" VALUE, "standard values" (for Hotels, Residential, e.t.c.......... or do they depend on the size of the building, which may vary form building-to-building?

You are really thorough.



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n3xt:
You may find this site very interesting http://www.detallesconstructivos.net/en

I trust you!

if we need to nominate a "Researcher-in-Chief" on this thread, it would be too easy!

I will go through it once l am finished,probably at night time.

Thanks,



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erico2k2:
Bro no need for long story, U miss understood what I was trying to say, its simple, if you car comes out of a box ie a KIT CAR,when you register it your number must start with Q, Q is reserved for these kind of vehicles your normal car ie BMW's Audi's and Toyota can not and never have a Q plate if modified B4 registration, I added Egun cos it was him I was discussing Q plate with cos I know him back in the days on his past moniker on the Auto section B4 as Usual you jumped in with ITK dismissing me with your *Vibes* comment.You want to lecture me about something I have lived with for 16 years.AND THATS THE BIT I DO NO LIKE ABOUT YOU.You talking about Google, I recommend you use it next time B4 you term someone broadcasting *vibes*It would do you a load of good if you just admit ur errors instead of justifying yourself with these long colorful comments and save yourself some embarrassment as usual.

Assuming l misunderstood what you are trying to say (as you said)...whats the big deal in that ?, that you need to write another Fullscap page, to explain what Q-Plate is, despite many, many explanations, including free Google, in previous post!

You actually think you are trying to embarras me? .......just because "l did not get what you are trying to say? Cheesux Christ!
LKWMD! ....You must be high on some cheap stuff this afternoon!

Well, it is not my fault that you cant construct sentences properly .....to "actually convey succinctly", what you have in mind"?

Maybe l should post you a certificate for knowing what Q-Plate is..... so you can frame it and hang it on your neck!

Some of you here think too much of yourself!

Why do you keep on harping about "Liking me"?
if l knew you in real life, maybe l will give a rat-azz about' you liking me' .... but do l give a fphuck about some faceless, inconsequential-wannabe,....... liking me?
Nobody likes me, I dont want anyone to like me, l like Nobody! I dont give a hoot. I roll alone. Its not relevant at all. End of story!

Look, l dont have time for personal issues with "one time scorers" like you..... let me enjoy my Euro 2016 tournament.

1 - 0 (Ireland Sweden ...game-on)
Edit: Ibrahimovich turns provider, with an 'O.G'! Game ends 1-1.

Italy - Belgium 7:35pm tonight.




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NB: You can write the next ten pages on this nonissue, get a thousand "likes" from your "like-buddies"....IT'S IRRELEVANT TO ME.

originally:
One hardly read goodnews these days,what is happening?

CROOKS ti take-over nii!




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n3xt:
I'll defer to the Pros in the house. Good time to learn the right way to do it.

Meanwhile, I did pipe in columns before. Though, I ensured good concrete cover of at least 2" on 100mm pipes and more on 75mm drain pipes. The columns were wider and are supplemental columns.

I found this method easier and cleaner than the traditional break wall/break beam to lay pipe approach.

I don't know if it's wrong thing to do.

I've also done pipe in beam to beat the traditional laying of pipes in slab for bikes that have high headroom and are having POP, or suspended ceiling covering. Cable trays can be installed in the void space to take care of cables and everything else. Cheaper and easier to maintain.

I suspect what you have in mind is not what we are referring to?

Conduit purposes? YES!
Weight Reduction? NO!


As Abdulwastecx has shown, the thing involves a lot for Engineering calculations to avoid 'failure' of the Concrete involved.

I am just imagining, if l could eliminate about 40% total weight from a building, that building could / will float on a soil it is assumed not to be capable of floating on, without expensive Foundations like inverted raft, Piles, e.t.c.

That could be like #7Million+ saved, for a two storey building

Thanks for those pictures,l gbadun them.



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abdulwastecx:
The scientific quid is our BS codes and Euro code couple with basic understanding of structural analysis and design.

If l want to "read-Up" on this, just for personal development (I know that wont still make me or anyone a structural/Design Engineer! )....

... Which Book/Author will you recommend? (The real "Bible" of Building)

Thanks for your pointed responses always.




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