Concrete block walls are formed by stacking blocks in rows to form the wall.  A string, normally clear nylon, is used as a 'straight-line' to aid in the row being laid down straight.  Between the blocks (on all sides) cement is used to keep them in place and add strength.  Rebar is laid horizontally at the intersection with a foundation column to add strength.  A hole is drilled in the foundation post and the rebar strand, about 30 centimeters in length, is inserted in the hole.  It is then laid on top of a row of blocks and cemented in place.

The 'chap' or stucco layer is applied next.  The cement for this stage is mixed with less sand than for other applications.  Here we used a thick coat of about 1 centimeter in depth.  The 'chap' is what gives walls the real strength.

Wall section in progress.  (13-Mar-04)	Wall section - notice how there is a base above and below the window and red bricks are used to make the upper roof support.  (28-Mar-04)
The blocks are laid in rows with cement in-between.  (28-Mar-04)	Completed rough wall section.
The stucco is applied in coats.  This is a rough coat.  (02-Apr-04)	The stucco being smoothed in the finishing coat.
Stucco being applied to the rear of the house.  (09-Apr-04)	Stucco applied to the front of the house.  (19-Apr-04)
The stucco coat is thick as seen here, at least 1 centimeter thick.  (17-Apr-04)	The foundation posts are finished off by having decorative corners added.  (19-Apr-04)
The traces of underlying blocks will show until the cement dries.  Before painting is a good time to examine the surface for cracks.  (25-Apr-04)

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