Roofing 101

One of the reasons Ron came during this trip was to help with some construction on the new base if we rented it. We decided to stay in our current location which needs no construction work done, BUT the school roof in Bas-Citronniers is having some trouble with leaking. It was done in a very unique and interesting way- bug/window screening covered with a mixture of latex and cement. This turned the screening into a kind of canvas-type canopy covering the school building. This is lightweight and flexible and was a really neat idea (plus it really looks cool- lol). 

Unfortunately, there were some unforseen design issues- one being that water runs down the roof, but kind of curves back under the edges if the rain is not heavy or it is just dew from the roof. This is rotting some of the supporting boards. 

There is also a problem with the latex-concrete mixture cracking in some spots and this has caused the roof to leak. 

Sooooo we are in the process of working with the locals who originally helped with construction (the designer/builder used all local labor) to repair and replace sections where there is water damage before this thing becomes an even bigger problem. 

As is typical in Haiti, supplies needed are limited and we must travel all the way to Port au Prince to find them. When we do, they are quite pricey!! A five gallon bucket of the latex that we mix dry cement into is $150 US!! We blew through one of those yesterday and need two more to complete the job but dont have funds to do so.... The first bucket about broke our budget!! We have also had to buy 2 x 4's to brace the roof and replace the rotted ones, cement mix, screws, etc. The local labor (giving jobs to five men) costs $14 per day per man.... so $70 per day in labor and we anticipate a week of work so close to $500 in labor!!  

The entire project should be about $1500 to $2000 when done but the roof should then be good for a while. We may eventually have to replace the roof with a more traditional one, but this should postpone that decision for quite a while. 

If you would are touched by the story and would like to help toward our expenses, that would be great. Any funds we dont have to put toward this roof will be funds we have available for other worthwhile projects. God bless and enjoy some of these photos from the work we did yesterday. 

Donations can be made from the website heartsunitedwithhaiti.org or checks can be mailed to Hearts United with Haiti, PO Box 55, Morgantown, PA 19543. Note Bas-Citronniers on your donation.  They are tax deductible and MUCH appreciated! 

Three of the workers (with Ron and Redgi) putting down new screen over holes or cracked spots. That was then covered by the latex mixture like painting. A second coat will be applied in a few days once this completely dries. 

Ron painting on new latex to hold the screen- note how we constructed a little overhang now with the screen to divert water from the boards. Also note how BURNED we all got out in that hot sun..... And to think these guys worked from 8 am to 4 pm with only a short lunch break... all for $14/ day!!

You have to carefully walk out on the beams to lay screen and repair the roof. One step to the side and you would fall through the canvas-like roof. My job was offering up LOTS of prayers as the guys moved about up there over children having classes below. 

Mixing up the latex-cement to paint over the screening. 

A view from down below. 

And THIS is why we do it!! 140 little children can now go to school in their own community in this building thanks to those who came before us to build it and follow the vision they had for quality, local education. We are blessed to continue upon the work they started and help maintain the facilities before the problems get worse! 

-Crystal