We got another 46 cy of concrete in before the long weekend. Our conveyor truck was busy on a 'payin' job so I had to rent a pump.
We do a lot of complicated concrete but this foundation ranks right up there when it comes to complexity per cubic yard. Lucky for me, I have a world class concrete crew led by my BIL. I'm fortunate to have such skilled people building my home.
Gotta give the concrete truck drivers credit, we are short of space down here so they've taken to backing down a 2000 foot driveway with a 200 foot elevation drop.
When you've got a drop, the best way to ensure uniform consolidation is to place and vibrate the lower section, then install a 'cap' to allow you to vibrate the upper section without dumping a bunch of concrete on the ground.
Walls need to be straight. The guys pull strings down the length of each wall and adjust the braces until they get it within an 1/8", which is pretty damn close to perfect.
If you've never been involved with a big concrete placement, you've missed something pretty incredible. Done properly, it's a wonder to behold - many moving parts that must come together perfectly.
When you're placing 12' high walls, you can't beat a good, old fashioned plumb bob when it comes to ensuring accurate dimensions.
In their spare time, the guys stripped the site retaining wall - it came out very nice;
I hope you all have a fantastic Memorial Day weekend. Let's all remember what this holiday is all about. We should take every opportunity to thank those who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedom. As Americans, we are truly blessed to enjoy the liberty that was paid for with the blood of heroes.