Faculty of Engineering and Technology

Department of Civil Engineering

CIV 2201 (Capstone Project): Design and Construction of a Ramada Fitted with a Double
Sided Swing
 CIV 2201: Capstone Project

Project Supervisor: Mr. Safrawz Sharief

External Supervisor: Mr. Stephen Liu

Project Report

Date: September 30th, 2020

A final report submitted in partial fulfillment for the Associate of Science in Civil Engineering by:

Name Unique Student Identifier (USI)

Daniel Balli 1030590

Imran Hack 1031618

Jonathon Narine 1013778

Kevin Narine 1024531

Neveash Arun Kumar 1032195

Nicholas Sattaur 1031930

Ravie Roopnarine 1031357

Samuel Rafiek 1030773

Bibi Serafya Shameer 1031596

Totaram Jainarain 1032170

Yuvraj Ramnauth 1032626

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Executive Summary

At the UOG, we are experiencing the need for the construction and maintenance of structures that
enhance social interactions. The emotional support provided by social interactions can reduce the
damaging effects of stress caused by academic studies. Structures of this nature can aid in
overcoming social anxiety since it creates a medium through which students of all faculties can
interact.

After due consideration and consultation, the design and construction of a Ramada inclusive of a
double sided swing will not only add to the existing landscape but it will also replace the recently
destroyed swings at the south eastern lawns of the FOET within the Turkeyen campus. When in
its operation, the recently destroyed swings experienced a high volume of students who would
utilise this facility daily hence the need for a stable and secure structure that will not only benefit
the FOET but the Turkeyen campus as a whole.

Students may utilize this structure as a means of avoiding classes; however, through collaboration
with lecturers, penalties should be imposed on such behaviour. Other than the aforementioned risk,
there are no other risks involved in the implementation of a Ramada once constructed in
accordance with the method statement provided in this document.

To complete this project, we would need the management of the UOG to fully fund, or subsidize
such initiatives and allow the students of the FOET (specifically the team members of this project)
to establish the proposed Ramada.

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Table of Contents
Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................... iii
Acknowledgement ....................................................................................................................... viii
List of Tables ................................................................................................................................. ix
List of Abbreviations ...................................................................................................................... x
1.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Background ........................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Statement of Problem ............................................................................................................ 2
1.3 Specific Objectives: .............................................................................................................. 2
2.0 Literature Review ...................................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Development of the FOET .................................................................................................... 3
2.1.1 Past capstone projects .................................................................................................... 4
2.2 Ramada, Pergolas, and Gazebos ........................................................................................... 5
2.2.1 Ramada........................................................................................................................... 5
2.2.2 Pergolas .......................................................................................................................... 8
2.2.3 Gazebo ........................................................................................................................... 8
2.3 Bill of Quantity ..................................................................................................................... 9
2.4 Form work ............................................................................................................................. 9
2.5 Concrete Works................................................................................................................... 10
2.5.1 Foundation ................................................................................................................... 10
2.5.2 Column Pedestal .......................................................................................................... 10
2.5.3 Reinforced concrete ..................................................................................................... 10
2.5.4 Cement ......................................................................................................................... 11
2.5.5 Setting .......................................................................................................................... 11
2.5.6 Hardening ..................................................................................................................... 11
2.5.7 Hydration ..................................................................................................................... 11
2.5.8 Workability .................................................................................................................. 11
2.5.9 Consistency .................................................................................................................. 12
2.5.10 Curing......................................................................................................................... 12
2.5.11 Shrinkage ................................................................................................................... 12
2.5.12 Portland Pozzolan Cement ......................................................................................... 12
2.5.13 Specific Gravity ......................................................................................................... 12

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 2.5.14. Bulk Density ............................................................................................................. 13
2.5.15 Concrete Mix Design ................................................................................................. 13
2.5.16 Slump Test ................................................................................................................. 13
2.5.17 Release Agent ............................................................................................................ 13
2.5.18 Concrete Spacers ........................................................................................................ 14
2.5.19 Screeding .................................................................................................................... 14
2.5.20 Floating ...................................................................................................................... 14
2.5.21 Moist curing ............................................................................................................... 14
2.6 Aggregates .......................................................................................................................... 15
2.6.1 Coarse Aggregate ......................................................................................................... 15
2.6.2 Fine Aggregate ............................................................................................................. 15
2.6.3 Sieve Analysis .............................................................................................................. 15
2.7 Iron works ........................................................................................................................... 16
2.7.1 Steel .............................................................................................................................. 16
2.7.2 Reinforcement bars ...................................................................................................... 16
2.7.3 Stirrups ......................................................................................................................... 16
2.7.4 Tensile strength ............................................................................................................ 16
2.7.5 Ductility ....................................................................................................................... 17
2.7.6 Hardness ....................................................................................................................... 17
2.7.7 Toughness .................................................................................................................... 17
2.7.8 Eye bolts ....................................................................................................................... 17
2.7.9 Maillon rapide .............................................................................................................. 18
2.7.10 S – Hook..................................................................................................................... 18
2.7.11 Swing hanger.............................................................................................................. 19
2.8 Wood works ........................................................................................................................ 20
2.8.1 Hardwood ..................................................................................................................... 20
2.8.2 Bulletwood ................................................................................................................... 20
2.8.3 Greenheart wood .......................................................................................................... 20
2.8.4 Lap joints...................................................................................................................... 20
2.8.5 Wood Plastic Composite .............................................................................................. 21
3.0 Methodology ........................................................................................................................... 22
3.1 Theoretical work ................................................................................................................. 23

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 3.2 Practical work ..................................................................................................................... 24
3.2.1 Laboratory testing ........................................................................................................ 25
3.2.2 Materials....................................................................................................................... 25
3.2.3 Equipment .................................................................................................................... 26
3.2.4 Substructure work ........................................................................................................ 26
3.2.5 Superstructure work ..................................................................................................... 27
4.0 Data Collection and Analysis .................................................................................................. 28
4.1 Mix design........................................................................................................................... 28
4.2 Detailed Proposed Design Drawings .................................................................................. 33
4.3 Bill of Quantities ................................................................................................................. 42
4.4 Method Statement ............................................................................................................... 45
4.4.1 Site Preparation ............................................................................................................ 45
4.4.2 Excavation .................................................................................................................... 45
4.4.3 Sand-fill ........................................................................................................................ 45
4.4.4 Formwork ..................................................................................................................... 45
4.4.5 Concrete Blinding ........................................................................................................ 46
4.4.6 Backfill ......................................................................................................................... 46
4.4.7 Reinforcement Installation ........................................................................................... 46
4.4.8 Erecting Columns ......................................................................................................... 46
4.4.9 Mixing and Pouring of Concrete Strip Footing and Column Pedestals ....................... 47
4.4.10 Installation of Ramada’s Framework ......................................................................... 48
4.4.11 Installation of Roof .................................................................................................... 48
4.4.12 Swing Seat Installation............................................................................................... 48
4.4.13 External Finishes ........................................................................................................ 49
4.5 Work Schedule (Gantt Chart) ............................................................................................. 50
4.6 Day Rates for Plant and Equipment, Labour and Materials ............................................... 51
4.6.1 Plant and equipment ..................................................................................................... 51
4.6.2 Labour .......................................................................................................................... 51
4.6.3 Materials....................................................................................................................... 51
6.0 Conclusion .............................................................................................................................. 53
5.0 Recommendations ................................................................................................................... 54
7.0 References ............................................................................................................................... 55

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8.0 Appendix A – Concrete Mix Design....................................................................................... 58
9.0 Appendix B - Bill of Quantities using Bulletwood ................................................................. 61

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Acknowledgement

It is with great honor that we take this opportunity to thank all of the persons that contributed and
offered aid towards the completion of this project. We, the students of this capstone group would
like to thank the supreme power, the Almighty God, who is the one that continued to encourage
and keep this group motivated towards the submission of this project.
We cannot express enough thanks to Mr. Sharief for his continued support and encouragement.
Mr. Sharief has been selfless where offering assistance was concerned. The success of this project
could not have been achieved without the support of Mr. Stephen Liu; we would also like to extend
gratitude to him for his continued direction and advice that steered this project to its completion.

viii
List of Tables

The following tables with be made reference to throughout this document:

Table 1 Slump Ranges for Specific Applications

Approximate Mixing Water for Different Slumps Corresponding to their Respective

Table 2
Maximum Aggregate Size

Table 3 Water-Cement Ratio and Compressive Strength Relationship

Volume of Coarse Aggregate per Unit Volume of PCC for Various Fineness
Table 4
Modulus of Fine Aggregates

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List of Abbreviations

The following Abbreviations will be used going forward:

UOG University of Guyana

FOET Faculty of Engineering and Technology

BOQ Bill of Quantities

PPC Portland Pozzolan Cement

GH Greenheart

BW Bulletwood

WPC Wood Plastic Composite

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1.0 Introduction

This project seeks to construct a Ramada with a built-in swing, to replace the demolished swings
once present at the FOET. The structure seeks to instill a more aesthetic environment and also add
variety to the facilities that promote social gatherings at the FOET.

1.1 Background
The UOG, in April 1963, was inaugurated along with the following mission statement: “To
discover, generate, disseminate, and apply knowledge of the highest standard for the service of the
community, the nation, and of all mankind within an atmosphere of academic freedom that allows
for free and critical enquiry.” The UOG is the highest institution of learning in Guyana; the first
class was commenced on the first of October 1963 at the Queen’s college building and other rentals
in Georgetown (Ishmael, 2013). Seven (7) years later in 1970, the Turkeyen Campus was
established where the UOG, to this date, fully functions.

Consisting of various faculties such as Agriculture & Forestry, Health Sciences, Natural Sciences,
Social Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Education & Humanities and the School of Earth
& Environmental Sciences; the UOG is in surplus of 5,500 students (University of Guyana, 2017).
To date, more than 25,500 students have graduated and are pursuing their various careers
(University of Guyana, 2017).
As a requirement for the Associate of Science in Civil Engineering, the students need to carry out
a capstone project to put in to perspective the knowledge they would have acquired during their
two years of study in the said program. As such, it is in interest that the students conduct a research
that would be able to add to the betterment of the University’s students. As time progresses, so
does technology and engineering as well. This report intends to show how past structures from the
16th century has been modernized in the 20th century.

The word pergola is derived from the Latin word “pergula” which refers to a “projecting eave”,
commonly found as an extended roof or arbor. The first known use of the term pergola dates back
to the 1640’s during the late medieval period (Daryl, 1985). It was used by John Evelyn at the
cloister of Trinita dei Monti in Rome.

As the needs for other features arise, the pergola was engineered with various other features, which
are now known as Ramada and Gazebos. The term Ramadas was derived from the Spanish term

1
‘rama’ which means "branch". Ramadas have traditionally been constructed with branches or
bushes by aboriginal Americans living in the region, however, the term today is also applied to
permanent concrete, wooden, or steel structures used to shelter objects or people from the sun
(Wilkins, 2007). A roof alone provides substantial shelter but because there are no walls in the
structure, airflow is unrestricted, helping to keep the temperature below the roof substantially
cooler than ambient.

1.2 Statement of Problem

This project intends on developing a Ramada with a built-in swing to replace the swings the UOG
currently has established. This project seeks to instill a more aesthetic environment around the
UOG, to provide a more pleasant facility for social gatherings at the FOET, and to highlight various
civil engineering construction practices/processes.

1.3 Specific Objectives:

This project seeks to achieve the following objectives:

1. To replace the recently destroyed swings by constructing an aesthetically pleasing fixed

structure that would be able to accommodate more people while simultaneously shelter them
from the elements of weather.
2. To design and construct an adequately sized, environmentally friendly Ramada with a double
sided swing integrated within the structure, for the FOET at the UOG’s Turkeyen Campus.
3. To gain valuable hands on experience and knowledge in the field of construction practices and
techniques by constructing a Ramada that will possess a substantial lifespan.
4. To conduct required research on various aspects of the structure that would be facilitated by
the Civil Engineering Laboratory located in the FOET found in the UOG’s Turkeyen Campus.

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2.0 Literature Review

2.1 Development of the FOET

The FOET was established in 1969 (University of Guyana, 2017). The regular academic programs
offered were the General Technical Diploma (GTD) and the Higher Technical Diploma (HTD) in
Architecture and Building Technology, in Civil, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering.
In 1978, the Faculty discontinued the GTD and HTD programs and introduced the Diploma in
Technology and Bachelor of Engineering programs to replace them. A diploma in Technology
program in Aeronautical Engineering was introduced in 2005 in collaboration with the Art
Williams/Harry Wendt Aeronautical School. On the 9th day of July 2018, the Faculty of
Technology was renamed to The FOET, and has remained the same to this date (University of
Guyana, 2017).

Map 1 – The geographical location of the FOET.

Taken from: https://www.google.com/maps
Date Accessed: August 21st, 2020

3
2.1.1 Past capstone projects
The geographical area of the faculty has experienced many changes to this date due to the projects
carried out by the students. There have been many developments to the landscape by the
engineering students. These projects intend on making the lives of students at the faculty more
relaxing and to add to the aesthetic of the faculty. To date, there have been capstone projects that
added hexagonal pots to the area, projects that created seating allocations for the students (concrete
table and chairs), and a bamboo structure that highlights primordial engineering techniques.
There has been development of an arch that can be seen in image #2 and a podium with F.E.T that
can be seen in image #1 that serves to welcome students to the faculty. In addition to these
structures, swings were added to the trees and galvanized seating areas were added under the trees
to create a tranquil setting for the students after classes. It is now the responsibility of the current
Engineering students to make further contributions to the faculty. Apart from adding to the
aesthetics of the faculty, these projects intend to allow students to use the knowledge they gained
thus far in their respective programs.

Image 1 - A podium with the mounted acronym

Taken from: https://fot.uog.edu.gy/
Date accessed: August 21st, 2020

4
 Image #2 - An arch towering the cat walk to the faculty
Taken from: https://fot.uog.edu.gy/
Date Accessed: August 21st, 2020

2.2 Ramada, Pergolas, and Gazebos

2.2.1 Ramada
A Ramada is a temporary or permanent shelter equipped with a roof but no walls, or only partially
enclosed (Tai, 2013). Ramadas have traditionally been constructed with branches or bushes by
aboriginal Americans living in the region.

Image #3 – A Ramada constructed with branches

Retrieved from - https://www.pinterest.com
Date Accessed: August 21st, 2020

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A Ramada can be built in many ways, however, many components remain the same, and these
various components are highlighted in the image below.

Image #4 – The main components of a Ramada

Retrieved from - https://www.pinterest.com
Date Accessed: August 21st, 2020

Along with the foundation, the columns, beams and rafters are important structural elements of the
Ramada, and as such it is mandatory to understand their particular purposes.
• Column/post - A column or pillar in architecture and structural engineering is a structural
element that transmits, through compression, the weight of the structure above to other
structural elements below (Hield, 1957).
• Beam - A beam is a structural element that primarily resists loads applied laterally to the beam's
axis. Its mode of deflection is primarily by bending (Hield, 1957).
• Rafter - A rafter is one of a series of sloped structural members such as wooden beams that
extend from the ridge or hip to the wall plate, downslope perimeter or eave, and that are
designed to support the roof deck and its associated loads (Hield, 1957).

6
Some of the applications of a Ramada are:
• To create shade - Ramadas were invented to create shade from direct sunlight. It only
comprises of a roof to block direct heat, while allowing for air circulation.
• Extension to living area - Since Ramadas were modernized, they are now used as extensions
to living spaces. Ramadas are built over decks and patios to provide outdoor dining areas.
• Used to create partitions - Ramadas are used as a separation from seating area and dining area
at functions. They are also used to separate the living spaces from the garden.
• Used to create a green screen - Ramadas have found usefulness in gardens; the roofing material
can be replaced with UV plastic to filter the sunlight for the plants.
• Used as storage spaces - Many households would use Ramadas to protect certain properties
from the effects of weather; usually used as parking area for vehicles.

Image #5 – A Ramada used to create living space

Retrieved from: http://www.unique-landscapes.com
Date Accessed: August 21st, 2020

7
 Image #6 – A Ramada being used for storage
Retrieved from - https://southwestideas.com
Date Accessed: August 21st, 2020

2.2.2 Pergolas
A pergola is an outdoor garden feature forming a shaded walkway, passageway, or sitting area of
vertical posts or pillars that usually support cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice, often upon
which woody vines are trained (Tai, 2013).

2.2.3 Gazebo
A gazebo is a pavilion structure, sometimes octagonal or turret-shaped, often built in a park, garden
or spacious public area, which consists of a roof (Tai, 2013).

8
2.3 Bill of Quantity
A BOQ is a document used in tendering in the construction industry in which materials, parts, and
labour are itemized and are presented with their costs (Seeley, 1998). According to Seeley (1998),
the purpose of a BOQ is as follows:

• First and foremost, it enables all contractors tendering for a contract to price on exactly the same
information with minimum effort.
• It limits the risk element borne by the contractor to the rates he enters in the bill.

• It prompts the client and the design team to finalize most project particulars before the bill can
be prepared, ideally with full production drawings and project specification
• It gives an itemized list of the component parts of the building, with a full description and the
quantity of each part, and this may assist the successful contractor in ordering materials and
assessing his labor requirements for the contract.
• After being priced, it provides a good basis for a cost analysis, which subsequently will be of
use on future contracts in cost planning work.

• If prepared in annotated form, it will help in the locational identification of the work.

2.4 Form work

Formwork is a temporary structure that supports part or the whole of a permanent structure until it
is self-supporting (Government of Queensland, 2016). Some formwork systems are designed to
remain with the permanent structure. Generally, work carried out to design, construct, erect, alter,
maintain, dismantle or remove formwork will be defined as construction work (Government of
Queensland, 2016).

Formwork means the surface used to contain and shape wet concrete until it is self-supporting.
This includes the forms on or within which the concrete is poured and the frames and bracing
which provide stability. Although commonly referred to as part of the formwork assembly, the
joists, bearers, bracing, foundations and footings are technically referred to as false-work. For the
purpose of this code, the term ‘formwork’ will be used to describe both formwork and false-work
(Government of Queensland, 2016).

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2.5 Concrete Works
2.5.1 Foundation
Foundations provide support for structures, transferring their loads to layers of soil or rock that
have sufficient bearing capacity and suitable settlement characteristics (Khing, 1993). Foundations
can be categorized as shallow foundations or deep foundations. Shallow foundations are typically
used where the loads imposed by a structure are low relative to the bearing capacity of the surface
soils. Deep foundations are necessary where the bearing capacity of the surface soils is not
adequate to support the loads imposed by a structure and so they need to be transferred to deeper
layers with higher bearing capacity.

Strip foundations – commonly known as strip footing are a type of shallow foundation that are
used to provide a continuous, level (or sometimes stepped) strip of support to a linear structure
such as a wall or closely placed columns rows of columns built centrally above them (Khing,
1993).

2.5.2 Column Pedestal

In general, a pedestal’s width is greater than its height. It functions mainly to avoid contact between
soil and metal elements or wood elements, to offer support for elements at some elevation, and to
allow thinner foundation footings.

2.5.3 Reinforced concrete

Reinforced concrete (RC) is a versatile composite and one of the most widely used materials in
modern construction. Concrete is a relatively brittle material that is strong under compression but
less so in tension (Chen, 2007). Plain, unreinforced concrete is unsuitable for many structures as
it is relatively poor at withstanding stresses induced by vibrations, wind loading, and so on. To
increase its overall strength, steel rods, wires, mesh or cables can be embedded in concrete before
it sets. This reinforcement, often known as rebar, resists tensile forces. By forming a strong bond
together, the two materials are able to resist a variety of applied forces, effectively acting as a
single structural element (Chen, 2007).

10
2.5.4 Cement
A burned powdered material consisting of clay and limestone with adhesive and cohesive
properties, which consist of calcium oxide (usually limestone or chalk), silica (from clay or sand),
alumina (from bauxite ore), iron oxide (from iron ore) and other elements in small amounts, and
is used as a binding agent in concrete (Beall & Jaffe, 2003).

2.5.5 Setting
Process by which, after application, a liquid (wet-state) material changes to a serviceable condition
by curing or drying. Note: Generally, curing implies a chemical reaction, while drying implies
evaporation of volatile constituents (ASTM E631) (Beall & Jaffe, 2003).

Setting of cement is when cement is mixed with water, the cement paste will start to stiffen and it
becomes unworkable (the cement paste will move from an elastic state to a plastic state) (Eastman,
2016). The time it takes for the cement paste to set is called the setting time. Initial setting time
should be at least 45 minutes and final setting time should not be greater than 10 hours (Eastman,
2016).

2.5.6 Hardening
Hardening is the gradual gain in strength of the set cement pastes (Eastman, 2016).

2.5.7 Hydration
Hydration is the chemical reaction that occurs when cement is mixed with water. This reaction is
exothermic (Eastman, 2016).

2.5.8 Workability
The property of freshly mixed concrete, mortar or plaster that determines its working
characteristics and the ease with which it can be mixed, placed, and finished (Beall & Jaffe, 2003).

11
2.5.9 Consistency
Consistency is defined as the relative stiffness or flow of freshly mixed concrete, mortar or grout
(Beall & Jaffe, 2003). Consistency is a measure of the concrete’s wetness or fluidity, and depends
on the mix proportions as well as the ingredients (Eastman, 2016).

2.5.10 Curing
Curing is referred to the maintaining of the proper conditions of moisture, and temperature during
the initial set, which develops the required strength. This reduces shrinkage in concrete products
and mortar (Beall & Jaffe, 2003). Wet curing involves keeping the surface of the concrete in
continuous contact with water after the initial set. This can be achieved by spraying, or by covering
the concrete with sand, which is kept wet (Eastman, 2016).

2.5.11 Shrinkage
Shrinkage is the decrease in volume of concrete due to moisture loss. Drying shrinkage is shrinkage
due to drying of hardened concrete is. The average value of drying shrinkage is about 0.05% of
the length of the membrane. A 10 ft. Member is expected to shrink an average of 1/16 in. (1.5mm)
(Eastman, 2016).

2.5.12 Portland Pozzolan Cement

PPC is produced by intimately blending Portland cement with a pozzolan. The amount of pozzolan
is 15-40% by weight of cement (Eastman, 2016). The type of cement that was used for this project
is TCL Guyana Inc. (TGI) PPC product also meets the requirements of ASTM C-595 and BS EN
standards. TCL is also ISO 900: 2008 (Quality Management System) certified.

2.5.13 Specific Gravity

The specific gravity of a substance is the ratio of the weight of that substance to the weight of an
equal volume of water (Budhu, 2011).

12
2.5.14. Bulk Density
Bulk density is the mass of aggregate that is required to fill a unit of volume (Eastman, 2016).

2.5.15 Concrete Mix Design

Concrete mix design is the process of finding right proportions of cement, sand and aggregates for
concrete to achieve target strength in various structures. The concrete mix design involves various
steps, calculations and laboratory testing to find right mix proportions the leads to the
required/desired twenty-eight (28) days compressive strength (Beall & Jaffe, 2003). This process
is generally adopted for structures which require higher grades of concrete and large construction
projects where quantity of concrete consumption is huge. The Benefits of concrete mix design is
that it provides the right proportions of materials, thus making the concrete construction
economical in achieving required strength of structural members (Beall & Jaffe, 2003).

2.5.16 Slump Test

The concrete slump test measures the consistency of fresh concrete before it sets. It is performed
to check the workability of freshly made concrete, and therefore the ease with which concrete
flows. It can also be used as an indicator of an improperly mixed batch (Beall & Jaffe, 2003). The
test is popular due to the simplicity of apparatus used and simple procedure. The slump test is used
to ensure uniformity for different loads of concrete under field conditions.

2.5.17 Release Agent

A release agent (also mold release agent, release coating, or mold release coating) is a chemical
that is use to prevent other materials from bonding to surfaces (Frederic S. Merritt, 1995).

13
2.5.18 Concrete Spacers
A concrete spacer or rebar spacer is a device that secures the reinforcing steel or "reinforcement
bar" in reinforced concrete structures as the rebar is assembled in place prior to the final concrete
pour (Mclaughlin, 1956). The spacers are left in place for the pouring of concrete to keep the
reinforcement in place, and become a permanent part of the structure. The spacer also functions to
provide the 2 inches cover around the strip foundation.

2.5.19 Screeding
Screeding is simply the smoothing out of a pliable material into a flat layer. It refers to the action
of flattening out poured concrete into a smooth, flat layer prior to finishing the surface. It can also
be used to describe the action of flattening out a layer of flooring mortar, sand, or gravel
underlayment beneath a surface in preparation for paving (Hansen, 1991).

2.5.20 Floating
Floating of concrete is the process of smoothing the surface by bringing the finer materials close
to the surface. Floating is done after the surface has been made level using a screed. It is mostly
done using a bull float or darbies (Allen, 1989). Bull floats are used for lager surfaces while darbies
are typically deserved for small areas.

2.5.21 Moist curing

One of the most common methods for curing concrete is to hose it down frequently with water at
a frequency of five to ten times per day for the first seven days. This method is known as moist
curing, and allows the moisture in the concrete to evaporate slowly (Aly, 2008). Moist cured
concrete can be up to 50 percent stronger than concrete that was cured without being dampened.

14
2.6 Aggregates

Granular mineral material such as natural sand, manufactured sand, gravel, crushed stone, and air
cooled blast furnace slag used with cement to make concrete, mortar, grout or plaster (Beall &
Jaffe, 2003).

2.6.1 Coarse Aggregate

Coarse aggregates are any particles greater than 0.19 inch, but generally range between 3/8 and
1.5 inches in diameter (America's Cement Manufacturers, 2018).

2.6.2 Fine Aggregate

Fine aggregates generally consist of natural sand or crushed stone with most particles passing
through a 3/8-inch sieve (America's Cement Manufacturers, 2018).

2.6.3 Sieve Analysis

Sieve analysis is the name given to the operation of dividing a sample of aggregate into fractions,
each consisting of particles of the same size. The grading of an aggregate defines the proportions
of particles of different sizes in the aggregate pile. Aggregates are classified as being fine, coarse
or all in aggregates. The grading is determined by sieve analysis and is indicated by grading curves
(Eastman, 2016).

15
2.7 Iron works

2.7.1 Steel
Steel has many various and important properties that must be known before the material can be
used and manipulated effectively and efficiently.

2.7.2 Reinforcement bars

A Reinforcing bar, commonly known as rebar, is a steel bar or mesh of steel wires used as a tension
device in reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry structures to strengthen and aid the concrete
under tension. Concrete is strong under compression, but has weak tensile strength, as such; rebar
significantly increases the tensile strength of the structure. Reinforcing bar’s surfaces are often
"deformed" with ribs, lugs or indentations to promote a better bond with the concrete and reduce
the risk of slippage.

2.7.3 Stirrups
The stirrups used are usually made out of a rectangular steel piece which is wrapped around top
and bottom bars of the beams. This is done to prevent shear failure which is usually diagonal in
case of cracks in beams. Stirrups help to hold in place the primary reinforcement bars. The use of
stirrups is needed to prevent the columns and beams from buckling.

2.7.4 Tensile strength

Tensile strength is the maximum stress that a material can withstand while being stretched or
pulled before breaking. Now, where steel is concerned, the tensile strength of steel vary greatly.

16
2.7.5 Ductility
The ability of a material to be drawn or plastically deformed without fracture is known as ductility
(Steven, 2009). It is an indication of how ‘soft’ or malleable the material is. The ductility of steels
varies depending on the types and levels of alloying elements present; an increase in carbon will
increase the strength but decrease the ductility.

2.7.6 Hardness
Hardness is the ability of a material to resist abrasion or penetration on its surface (Barnett, 2012).
The harder the material, the smaller the indentation left by an object such as a ball or diamond
being impressed upon it. However, there will be a higher risk of cracking as hardness increases.

2.7.7 Toughness
Toughness is the ability of a material to resist impact (i.e. absorb the energy of an impact). A higher
toughness will lessen the risk of cracking (Steven, 2009).

2.7.8 Eye bolts

An eye bolt is a bolt with a loop at one end (Liu, 2001). They are used to firmly attach a securing
eye to a structure, so that ropes or cables may then be tied to it.

Image #7 - An eye bolt

Taken from - https://www.screwfix.com
Date Acccessed: September 19th, 2020

17
2.7.9 Maillon rapide
A maillon, maillon rapide or quick link is a metal link, similar to a carabiner. Maillons have a
threaded sleeve which tightens over a thread, as opposed to a hinged gate like a carabiner, making
them stronger, but a bit more tedious to use (Green, 2001).

Image #8 - A Maillon rapide

Taken from - https://www.screwfix.com
Date Accessed: September 19th, 2020

2.7.10 S – Hook
S-hooks are curved, s-shaped hooks that are commonly made from steel, wrought iron,
polyethylene plastic, and other strong materials (Curt, 1997). It is curved or indented, such that it
can be used to grab onto, connect, or otherwise attach itself onto another object.

Image # 9 - A S-Hook
Taken from - https://www.screwfix.com
Date Accessed: September 19th, 2020

18
2.7.11 Swing hanger
A swing hanger is what is mounted to the wood or pipe beam and will provide relatively friction-
free movement for a swing

Image #10 - A swing hanger

Taken from - https://www.screwfix.com
Date Accessed: September 19th, 2020

19
2.8 Wood works

2.8.1 Hardwood
Hardwood is seasoned for stability and straightness (John, 1927). It is naturally resistant to attacks
by insects and has a high resistance to decay and fungal activity. Hardwoods have a denser
structure, which is the reason they are usually harder and heavier (John, 1927).

2.8.2 Bulletwood
BW is a very hard, strong, and tough wood which has good durability in outdoor applications.
Tests of BW have shown it to be comparable to greenheart in mechanical properties in both the
green and air-dry condition. It is equal or superior to greenheart in bending strength, shock
resistance, hardness, shear, and in across-the-grain properties of compression and tension
(Hardwood Lumber Suppliers: Exotic Hardwoods and Domestic Timber Supply, 2020).
BW is rated as very resistant to most insect attack however it is susceptible to marine borers. This
type of hardwood is used in heavy construction, boat building, decking, flooring, bent parts and
turned objects (Bulletwood - The Wood Database - Lumber Identification Hardwood, 2020).

2.8.3 Greenheart wood

GH wood is attractive, durable, versatile and environmentally friendly. It is a tropical hardwood
that is world renowned for its strength and durability. It is highly resistant to decay, termites, fire,
and marine organisms (Humphrey, 1915). GH requires no treatment and it's three to four times
stronger than pine or fir.

2.8.4 Lap joints

A lap joint or overlap joint is a joint in which the members overlap. Lap joints can be used to join
wood, plastic, or metal. A lap joint may be a full lap or half lap. In a full lap, no material is removed
from either of the members that will be joined, resulting in a joint which is the combined thickness
of the two members. In a half lap joint or halving joint, material is removed from both of the
members so that the resulting joint is the thickness of the thickest member (Hart, 11973). Most

20
commonly in half lap joints, the members are of the same thickness and half the thickness of each
is removed.

2.8.5 Wood Plastic Composite

WPC is a material created from a unique blend of natural wood and plastic fibers. Sawdust, pulp,
bamboo, peanut hulls and unused woodworking materials, like bark, from a variety of projects, are
combined with plastic powder to form WPC. It can be created entirely from recycled materials
collected from wood product manufacturing facilities, and more (Winandy, 2004). WPC can even
be recycled to create brand new WPC, making it the ultimate recyclable commodity.

21
3.0 Methodology

Figure 1: Flow Chart Depicting Methodology

22
The flowchart previously shown represents the steps taken in collecting data, preforming analyses,
and preparing the required engineering documents. It also shows the steps required for the
successful construction of the Ramada.

This project will take both a theoretical and a practical approach. The theoretical work done will
create a technical background that will aid in the practical work of this project. It is to be noted
that the theoretical work would take place subsequent to the group’s conceptualisation and
agreeance to the research objectives.

3.1 Theoretical work

Literature review- the literature review assembled will provide a concise overview of the materials
that will be used in the construction of the Ramada. Furthermore, it acts as a guide to the research
methodology and design.

The literature review was put together after carefully scrutinizing the members of a typical Ramada
as well as studying the applications of such a structure. After the function of each member of the
Ramada was fully understood, the most suitable construction material for each member was
carefully selected.

Research Design- this involves conducting a site reconnaissance to determine the suitable
dimensions of this project. The data necessary for the commencement of this project was gathered
using various sources on the internet and sketches were produced on the basis of this gathered
information. Final drawings were made when the team had decided on one particular configuration
of the Ramada. After these drawings were completed, it was carefully inspected by team members
to ensure these documents were technically sound.

Data Analysis- data analysis entails the design of the Ramada, its associated mix design and any
other calculations that would have been performed as well as all laboratory tests that were
performed.

The laboratory tests specified would commence upon acquisition of the required materials. These
tests would provide information that are vital to the construction of the Ramada. The UOG at its

23
Turkeyen branch would facilitate these tests under supervision in the civil engineering laboratory.
These tests are named under the practical branch of the methodology.
Timeline for project - tasks that were completed under the theoretical and practical aspect of this
project were listed according to their duration and an acceptable duration of each practical and
theoretical task was obtained. This information is used to formulate a timeline which must be
adhered to during the practical aspect of this research. A Gantt chart is used to visually depict the
timeline for this project. The Gantt chart allows for the steps that are to be carried out to be
explicitly stated along with the duration of such a task, the total duration of the project is found by
obtaining the arithmetic sum of the individual tasks that are to be done.

BOQ- this was obtained from the final design drawings of the Ramada.
Necessary quantities were ‘taken off’ and placed in a tabular format and then the rates of said
materials were obtained and a final estimate was obtained for this research.

The rates were obtained by contacting various hardware stores and lumber yards to obtain the most
economical rates for various items. Rates which required manual labour were obtained by speaking
with various contractors and quoting their rate for the associated task.

3.2 Practical work

The practical work can be grouped into 5 main categories;

i. Laboratory testing
ii. Materials
iii. Equipment
iv. Substructure work
v. Superstructure work

24
3.2.1 Laboratory testing
The laboratory testing will be conducted in accordance with AASHTO’s and ASTM’s test
procedures to determine the engineering properties for the selected materials. These tests are
conducted in accordance with;

• ASTM C143 / C143M-20: Determining the consistency of concrete mix.

• ASTM C 39/C 39M-20: Determining the Compressive strength of mix design.

• ASTM C136 / C136M – 19: Sieve analysis for coarse and fine aggregates.

• ASTM C566-19: Total Moisture Content of Aggregates by Drying

• ASTM D4318: Atterberg limits tests on construction site.

3.2.2 Materials
The main materials that are to be used in the construction of this Ramada are as follows:

• Sand (fine aggregate)

• ” minus stone (coarse aggregate)

5 3
• ” & 8” steel reinforcement bars
8

• 4” x 4” G.H posts, 2” x 6” G.H. rafters & sway brace, 2”x 2” G.H. members
• Ordinary Portland Cement (O.P.C.)
• Plywood and oil for formwork purposes
• Ceramic tiles

• ” x 3” tongue and groove (T&G) planks

• 3/8” short link zinc-coated chains

• WPC roofing sheets and dry wall screws

These materials selected were selected based on their durability and strength. This will maximise
the lifespan of the Ramada.

25
3.2.3 Equipment
The main equipment required for the successful completion of the research aspects of the practical
work are:

• Spades
• Electric hand saw
• Wheel barrow
• Drill gun
• Paint brushes
• Hammers

3.2.4 Substructure work

This involves the preparation and construction of everything below ground level. More
specifically, this entails (in summary);

• Clearing the construction site of vegetation and any objects which may impede construction
• Excavating the area demarked to the required depth of 1’- 6” of which there shall be 6”
compacted sandfill, 2” concrete blinding and 10” depth of strip footing in ascending order.
• Placing wooden formwork to facilitate the strip foundation and inserting steel reinforcement
with 2 inches of cover on each side of the trench.
• Inserting and erecting the four (4) wooden columns within the steel reinforcement to a depth
of 8” from ground level. It is noteworthy to make clear that the Ramada is designed so that the
uppermost face of the strip footing is found at ground level.
• Mixing and pouring concrete of 4000 psi into the concrete formwork and adequately allow the
concrete to set. After this task has been completed, the removal of formwork is also paramount.
By coating the formwork with vegetable oil before pouring the concrete mix, it will act as a
release agent and the formwork would be able to be detached from the concrete works and
reused.

After the above tasks have been completed, the superstructure works can commence.

26
3.2.5 Superstructure work
This will include works ascending from the ground level. More specifically, this entails (in
summary);

• Connecting four (4) beams that would run along the perimeter of the columns erected, sway
braces and rafters, as well as a beam that would carry the load of the swing that is to be attached
to the Ramada. These members are attached with strict adherence to the design drawings of the
Ramada.
• Installing the concrete pedestals that are shown on the design drawings, these pedestals would
be cast around the base of each column.
• Installing 1” x 3” WPC roofing sheets to the rafters of the Ramada. They would be installed
lengthwise of the Ramada and would provide great relief to users of this structure from weather
elements.
• Assembling the seat members in accordance with the design drawings and affixing the
completed seat to the Ramada itself through the use of steel chains. Applying the required
external finishes to the overall structure.
• Placing 2” gravel over the base of the Ramada.

27
4.0 Data Collection and Analysis

4.1 Mix design

Through thorough investigation of the Ramada’s foundation, a compressive strength of 4000 psi
was agreed upon by group members and was later agreed upon by practising engineers in the field.
The concrete mix for the foundation is as follows;

Information about materials:

Volume of Concrete = 52.19 ft3 (Non-air entrained concrete)

Note: the volume of concrete is obtained as follows;

10 10
 Volume of strip footing = [ ’ x 6’-8” x 10’-8” ] – [ 12’ x 7’- 4” x 3’- 4”]
12
Volume of strip footing = 38.89 ft3

2 2
 Volume of concrete blinding = [ 12’ x 6’-8” x 10’-8”] – [ 12’ x 7’- 4” x 3’- 4”]

Volume of concrete blinding = 7.78 ft3

4 4
 Volume of one concrete pedestal = [ 1’-8” x 1’-8” x ’] + [ 1’-2” x 1’-2” x ’]
12 12
Volume of one concrete pedestal = 1.38 ft3
Volume of four concrete pedestals = 4 (1.38 ft3) = 5.52 ft3

Therefore, the total volume of concrete required is; 38.89 ft3 + 7.78ft3 + 5.52 ft3 = 52.19 ft3

Coarse Aggregate:

▪ Maximum aggregate size = 3/4"

▪ Dry-rodded weight = 100 lbs/ Ft³
▪ Specific gravity = 2.68
▪ Moisture Content = 1.0%
▪ Absorption = 0.5%

28
Fine Aggregate:
 Fineness modulus = 2.80
 Specific gravity = 2.64
 Moisture content = 5%
 Absorption = 0.7%

Cement:
 Specific Gravity = 3.15

Calculations:
i. Slump = 1” [obtained from table 1 (Appendix A)]

3
ii. Maximum aggregate size check; maximum aggregate size must be less than 4 of the

minimum space between reinforcing bars

3 3
” < 4 (4”)
4
3
” < 3”, thus, the max aggregate size is acceptable and would not result in a honeycombed
4
footing.

iii. Mixing water = 315 lbs/yd3 [obtained from table 2 (Appendix A)]
Weight of water = 315 lbs/yd3

𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟
Volume of water =
𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟

315 𝑙𝑏𝑠/𝑦𝑑 3
Volume of water =
62.4 𝑙𝑏𝑠/𝑓𝑡 3

Volume of water = 5.05 ft3 per cubic yard of concrete

iv. Water cement ratio = 0.57 [obtained from Table 3 (Appendix A)]

29
 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟
v. Water Cement ratio =
𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡

𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟
Weight of cement =
𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑜

315 𝑙𝑏𝑠/𝑦𝑑 3
Weight of cement =
0.57

Weight of cement = 552.63 lbs/yd3 (weight per cubic yard of concrete mix)

𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡
Volume of cement =
𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 (𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟)

552.63 𝑙𝑏/𝑦𝑑 3
Volume of cement = 𝑙𝑏𝑠
3.15 (62.4 )
𝑓𝑡3

Volume of cement = 2.81 ft3/yd3

vi. Weight of coarse aggregate = 0.62 x 27 ft3 x 100 lbs/ft3

N.B. the value 0.62 as stated above is obtained from table 4 (Appendix A)
Weight of coarse aggregate = 1674 lbs

𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑎𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑔𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑒

Volume of coarse aggregate =
𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑎𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑔𝑔. (𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟)
1674 𝑙𝑏
Volume of coarse aggregate = 𝑙𝑏𝑠
2.68 (62.4 )
𝑓𝑡3

Volume of coarse aggregate = 10.01 ft3

vii. VCONCRETE = VCOARSE AGG. + VFINE AGG. + VCEMENT + V MIXING WATER

VFINE AGG. = VCONCRETE – [VCOARSE AGG + VCEMENT + V MIXING WATER]
VFINE AGG. = 27 ft3 – [10.01 ft3 + 2.81 ft3 + 5.05 ft3]
VFINE AGG. = 9.13 ft3

Weight of fine aggregate = VFINE AGG. x S.G. x density of water

Weight of fine aggregate = 9.13 ft3 x 2.64 x 62.4 lbs/ft3

30
 Weight of fine aggregate = 1504.04 lbs

viii. Weight of fine aggregate (wet) = 1504.04 lbs x 1.05

Weight of fine aggregate (wet) = 1579.24 lbs

Weight of coarse aggregate (wet) = 1674 lbs x 1.01

Weight of coarse aggregate (wet) = 1690.74 lbs

Water from fine aggregate = 1504.04 lbs * (0.05 – 0.007)

Water from fine aggregate = 64.67 lbs

Water from coarse aggregate = 1674 lbs x (0.01 – 0.005)

Water from coarse aggregate = 8.37 lbs

Water adjustment = 315 lbs – [ 64.67 lbs + 8.37 lbs]

Water adjustment = 241.96 lbs

ix. Final batch weight for 1 cubic yard

Water 241.96 lbs

Cement 552.63 lbs

Fine aggregate (sand) 1579.24 lbs

Coarse aggregate (stone) 1690 .74 lbs

Final batch weights for 1 cubic yard of concrete bearing 4000 psi

31
 Since the required volume of concrete is 52.19 ft3, which when converted to cubic yards is

1.93 yd3, the above table will have to be multiplied by the factor 1.74 to account for the

required volume of mix. Below shows the updated table with batch weights applicable for

the strip foundation and the column pedestals of the Ramada;

Water 466.98 lbs

Cement 1066.57 lbs

Fine aggregate (sand) 3047.93 lbs

Coarse aggregate (stone) 3263.13 lbs

Final batch weights for 1.93 cubic yards or 52.19 cubic feet of concrete bearing 4000 psi

Combining the weights to form a simple ratio;

1066.57 𝑙𝑏𝑠 3047.93 𝑙𝑏𝑠 3263.13 𝑙𝑏𝑠 466.98 𝑙𝑏𝑠

C: FA: CA: W
1066.57 𝑙𝑏𝑠 1066.57 𝑙𝑏𝑠 1066.57 𝑙𝑏𝑠 1066.57 𝑙𝑏𝑠

1C: 2.86 FA: 3.06 CA: 0.44 W

32
4.2 Detailed Proposed Design Drawings

33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
4.3 Bill of Quantities

DESIGN OF RAMADA FITTED WITH A DOUBLE SIDED SWING

Bill No. Item Description Unit Quantity Price Amount

1.00 Site preparation and excavation

Site clearance: clear site of shrubs, trees, undergrowth

1.01 and the like. ft2 71.11 $40.00 $2,844.40

Excavation: excavate surface to reduced level by an

1.02 average depth of 6" and dispose of materials ft3 35.56 $40.00 $1,422.40

Excavate foundation bed at existing level exceeding

1.03 18" in depth ft3 106.65 $40.00 $4,266.00

1.04 Treat surface of all excavation against termites sum $5,000.00

1.05 Provide for keeping excavation free of water sum $1,000.00
1.06 Level and compact bottom of excavation ft2 71.11 $20.00 $1,422.20
Subtotal to summary $15,955.00

2.00 Sand fill and Blinding

Provide and place 6" thick compacted white sand to

2.01 bottom of excavation; white sand to be compacted to ft3 35.56 $100.00 $3,556.00
95% Proctor density
Provide and place 2" thick 1:2 cement/sand blinding
2.02 to sandfill in foundation bed ft3 7.78 $80.00 $622.40

Subtotal to summary $4,178.40

3.00 Formwork

Provide a rough vertical finish to sides of strip footing

3.01 using 1"x12" form board BM 42.44 $240.00 $ 10,185.60

Provide a rough vertical finish to sides of strip footing

3.02 using 1"x12" form board BM 5 $240.00 $1,200.00

Subtotal to summary $11,385.60

4.00 Concrete works

Provide and place 4000 psi reinforced concrete mix to

4.01 foundation bed ft3 38.89 $1,450.00 $ 56,390.50

42
4.02 Provide and place 4000 psi concrete mix to blinding ft3 7.78 $1,450.00 $ 11,281.00

Provide and cast 4000 psi concrete column pedestals

4.03 as directed by design ft3 5.52 $1,450.00 $8,004.00

Provide 3/4" minus stone for the purpose of the

4.04 concrete strip footing and 2" stone floor Ton 1 $9,300.00 $9,300.00

Provide white sand for the purpose of the strip footing

4.05 and column pedestals ft3 9.13 $ 100.00 $9,301.00

Subtotal to summary $94,276.50

5.00 Reinforcement

Supply and install 5/8" dia main steel bars in strip

5.01 footing (4 main bars at top and bottom) lghts 18 $1,200.00 $ 21,600.00

Supply and install 3/8" dia corrugated steel bar as

5.02 stirrups @ 6" cts lghts 22 $ 700.00 $ 15,400.00

Supply binding wire to be used for the purpose of

5.03 forming steel connections sum $1,450.00

Subtotal to summary $38,450.00

6.00 Superstructure

6.01 Wooden posts: 4, 4" x 4" G.H. Posts @ 9' each BM 48 $360.00 $17,280.00

Wooden posts: 5, 4" x 4" G.H. Posts @ 9' each for

6.02 perimeter beam and beam to support swing BM 51 $360.00 $18,360.00

Provide and fix 2"x 6" G.H. Rafters as detailed by

6.03 design BM 52 $340.00 $17,680.00

Provide and fix 2"x 6" G.H. sway braces as detailed

6.04 by design BM 53 $340.00 $18,020.00

Provide and install 1"x 3" WPC (WPC) Roofing sheets

6.05 to rafters ft2 84 $20.00 $1,680.00

Subtotal to summary $73,020.00

7.00 Swing seat members

Wooden swing seat: 2" * 2" GH arm support, top rail,

7.01 bottom rail and stile as designed BM 17 $280.00 $4,760.00

Obtain and assemble 1/2" x 3" T&G planks for seat as

7.02 designed BM 6 $180.00 $1,080.00

43
 7.03 Eye bolts; (1/2"-13 x 4”) forged steel machinery eye No. 6 $180.00 $1,080.00
bolts)
7.04 Swing hanger No. 2 $800.00 $1,600.00

7.05 S' hooks (1/2") No. 2 $203.00 $406.00

7.06 Maillon Rapide: (1/2" quick links) No. 8 $200.00 $1,600.00

7.07 Swing chain: 3/8" short link zinccoated swing chain. ft 15 $150.00 $2,250.00

Subtotal to summary $12,776.00

8.00 Miscellaneous and external finishes

8.01 Provide 1" roofing screws lbs 2 $1,200.00 $2,400.00

Provide 4" nails lbs 3 $300.00 $900.00

8.02 Provide ½”-13x10” hex. Bolt, nut & washer unit 8 $150.00 $1,200.00

8.03 Provide 3" wood screws lbs 2 $300.00 $600.00

8.04 Provide and install 4" x 4" tiles on column pedestals No. 552 $90.00 $49,680.00

8.05 Supply tin set to be used for tiling sum $3,000.00

Provide and apply Primer on seat members,

8.06 superstructure and roof elements of Ramada gal. 1 $4,600.00 $4,600.00

Provide and apply wood paint on seat members,

8.07 superstructure and roof elements of Ramada gal. 1 $5,300.00 $5,300.00

Gravel flooring: Provide and place gravel as the

8.08 flooring, 2" high. sum $9,000.00

Subtotal to summary $76,680.00

Summary

Bill no. Description Amount

1 Site preparation and excavation $15,955.00
2 Sandfill and blinding $4,178.40
3 Formwork $11,385.60
4 Concrete works $94,276.50
5 Reinforcement $38,450.00
6 Superstructure $73,020.00
7 Swing seat members $12,776.00
8 Miscellaneous and external finishes $76,680.00
Total $326,721.50

44
4.4 Method Statement

Task Description: Construction of a Ramada fitted with a double sided swing.

4.4.1 Site Preparation

 Locate the proposed area for construction from the survey of the area. Demark clearly the
extreme boundaries of the Ramada.
 Offset a distance of ten feet (10’) from the boundaries established and cordon off the area by
means of construction tape.

4.4.2 Excavation
 From the boundaries demarked, excavate the area by necessary means.
 Place excavated material in a safe area nearby, this material is to be used later in the
construction process.
 Apply termite treatment to the base of excavation.
 Level, ram and compact the base of excavated area to a reduced level to minimize all voids in
soil.
 Ensure by necessary means that excavated area is kept free of water.

4.4.3 Sand-fill
 Place six inches (6”) of white sand at the base of the excavation.
 Compact to 95% Proctor density and ensure that the sand placed is level.

4.4.4 Formwork
 Using the 1” x 12” form-boards, place form-boards to facilitate the pouring of a strip
foundation of width 1’-8”.
 Ensure that formwork is established for the concrete pedestals. From the design drawings; the
lower cube has a length of 1’-8” with a thickness of 4”, the upper cube has a length of
1’-2” with a thickness of 4”.

45
 Ensure formwork is properly secured. Also, ensure that formwork is oiled before the pouring
of concrete mix. Vegetable oil can be used to coat the formwork, it acts as a concrete form
release agent thus allowing the formwork to be removed and reused.

4.4.5 Concrete Blinding

 Place two inches (2”) thick 1:2 cement/sand blinding to the foundation bed.
 Allow for adequate hydration of the cement/sand blinding.

4.4.6 Backfill
 Place the excavated soil around the area outlined for the strip footing. Ensure all rocks and
other impediments are removed.
 By necessary means, level and compact the soil.

4.4.7 Reinforcement Installation

5 3
 Create a ‘cage’ reinforcement using 8 “ main bars and 8 “ stirrups. Ensure to follow design

drawings to achieve desired results.

 Ensure that binding wire is used to connect main bars and stirrups.
 Provide and place adequate concrete spacers at regular intervals to ensure two inches (2”) of
cover is maintained between the reinforcement and the strip footing.

4.4.8 Erecting Columns

 Cast four, 4” x 4” block that is 2” thick. this is to be placed at each intended location for the
columns. This allows for the columns to be placed into the cage while maintaining the two
inches (2”) of cover.
 Insert each column through the reinforcement ‘cage’ in such a manner that it rests on the
2” thick concrete block.
 For each column, ensure that two wooden braces are placed at each end of the column in a 45º
angle. Secure each wooden brace by attaching it to wooden picket that is driven into the
ground. This serves to ensure that each column is securely held in place for latter stages of
construction.

46
 Once each column is adequately secured, ensure that the columns are in alignment with each
other. Also ensure that the columns are vertical with the top of the columns being level with
each other.

4.4.9 Mixing and Pouring of Concrete Strip Footing and Column Pedestals
 By hand-mixing or through the use of a concrete ransom mixer, mix the concrete in full
adherence to the mix design presented earlier in this document. Ensure that the mixing and
pouring of concrete is done during late afternoon hours into the night. This activity requires
sufficient lighting; thus it is paramount to ensure that adequate light is provided for.
 Ensure that consistency is maintained throughout the mix. To quantify this, conduct a slump
test on a random batch of concrete mix and if the slump is within 1”- 3” over 3 random tests,
then the mix is adequately consistent.
 Pour the freshly mixed concrete into the formwork laid out. Ensure that the concrete is poured
into the trench directly after mixing thus allowing the concrete to set evenly.
 Use an adequate piece of two-by-four to screed the concrete. This involves moving the piece
of wood in a sawing motion to remove excess concrete.
 After screeding, use a hammer to tap around the outside of the form to remove air and voids
on the edges.
 Use a trowel to float the concrete footing. This is done so the concrete strip footing and the
column pedestals can be smooth.
 Ensure that the concrete is kept moist. The concrete can be sprayed with water and then covered
with a polyethylene sheeting and bricks can be used to secure the sheeting. This process should
occur 5 times per day each ensuring that the concrete work is always covered after wetting.
This method is known as moist curing.

47
4.4.10 Installation of Ramada’s Framework
 Following the completion of the concrete works, cut four (4) pieces of 4” x 4” wood to be used
to form a perimeter beam on the columns. The connection of these members are to be lap
jointed and bolted.
 Cut a required piece of 4” x 4” wood to be used as the beam which will run longitudinally in
the centre of the perimeter beam. This beam serves the purpose of transferring the load from
the swing and its occupants to the columns which in turn transfers it to the strip foundation.
Also, it is recommended if this member be lap jointed as well.

4.4.11 Installation of Roof

 Follow the design drawings to cut required pieces of 2” x 6” rafters to attach on both ends of
the perimeter beam.
 Ensure that both ends of the rafters are lap jointed and nailed onto the perimeter beam. This is
to be done for each rafter installed. Also ensure that each rafter is spaced as directed by the
design drawings.
 Install the W.P.C. sheets onto the rafters by screwing them down onto the rafters. The W.P.C.
sheets are tongue and groove in nature hence it would be more effective in providing shade
from elements of the weather.

4.4.12 Swing Seat Installation

 Follow the design drawings to assemble the swing seat in the configuration shown. Ensure all
members are cut to their specified length and also ensure that all members are securely joined.
 Ensure that adequate holes are drilled into the hand-rest where the steel chain will connect to
the seat.
1
 Fix a forged steel machinery (2” -13 ×4”) eye bolt to the holes drilled on the swing seat. A
1
marine grade stainless steel 316 maillon rapide ( 2” ) will be attached to the eye bolt and secured

in place to allow the steel chains to be attached to the maillon rapide.

 From the design drawings, there is a junction where the chains from both sides of the seat
1
converge into one chain, this will be possible though the use of an ( 2 ") ‘S’ hook. The lower
part of the ‘S’ hook will contain the three chains while the upper portion will contain the chain
that is to be attached to the beam. This is done so that the weight can be distributed evenly.

48
 Using a vise-grip pliers, tighten the hook to prevent the chain from falling out also to ensure
that people cannot intentionally damage the structure.
 Mark the exact positon of the swing in relation to the Ramada. Follow design drawings for
maximum accuracy. Attach a heavy duty swing hanger to the beam which will carry its weight,
and attach a maillon rapide to the swing hanger. This will allow the chains on both ends of the
seat to attach to the beam. Ensure that the swing hanger has 180º swing to reduce friction.

4.4.13 External Finishes

 After 28 days has passed, ensure that tiles (4” x 4”) are affixed to the column pedestals and the
exposed face of the strip footing.
 Ensure that two inches (2”) of gravel is placed within the strip foundation. To successfully
accomplish this task, the compacted earth must be one to two inches below the top level of the
strip footing. This is done so that the stone would not rest on the tiles.
 Apply primer on all members of the Ramada inclusive of the seat followed by the appropriate
wood paint. It would be advisable if this task is done either early in the morning or late in the
afternoon.

49
4.5 Work Schedule (Gantt Chart)

50
4.6 Day Rates for Plant and Equipment, Labour and Materials
4.6.1 Plant and equipment

Equipment Rental per hour # of hours Fuel (2L) Total

Ransom Mixer $ 6,000.00 GYD 2 $ 314.00 GYD $ 12,314.00 GYD

4.6.2 Labour

Workers Rate per day # of workers # of days to be Total

worked

Skilled $ 8,000.00 GYD 2 7 $112,000.00 GYD

Unskilled $ 4,500.00 GYD 2 7 $ 63,000.00 GYD
TOTAL $175,000.00 GYD

4.6.3 Materials

Materials Cost (GYD)

Cement $ 75,675.50
Sand $4,178.40
Stone $ 9,300.00
4” x 4” G.H. Wood $ 35,640.00
1” x 12” Formwork $ 11,385.60
2” x 6” G.H. Rafters $ 35,700.00
2” x 2” G.H wood $ 4,760.00
1
" x 3” T&G Planks $ 1080.00
2
5
" steel bars $ 21,600.00
8
3
" corrugated steel stirrups $ 15,400.00
8

Construction plastic $1000.00

Binding wire $1,450.00

51
 Nails (4”) $ 900.00
½”-13x10” Hex bolt, nut, washer $1,200.00
3” wood screws $ 600.00
Roofing screws $ 2,400.00
4” x 4” tiles $ 49,680.00
3/8” short link chain $ 2,250.00
1” x 3” W.P.C. Roofing sheets $ 1,680.00
Wood Paint and Primer $ 9,900.00
‘S’ hooks $ 406.00
Maillon Rapide (1/2” quick links) $ 1,600.00
Swing Hanger $ 1,600.00
Eye Bolts $ 1,080.00
Gravel $ 9,000.00
Total $299,465.50

52
6.0 Conclusion

The Ramada presented here in this report can be erected appropriately on the south eastern lawns
of the FOET within the UOG’s Turkeyen Campus. This structure requires a land area of 71.11 ft2
and can safely accommodate 4 persons while providing protection from the weather. This Ramada
serves to add aesthetics to the FOET while highlighting and putting into practice the knowledge
the students gained during the Associate’s of Science Degree in Civil Engineering, and at the same
time, replacing the demolished swings that were once present.

53
5.0 Recommendations

Upon completion of the project, the following recommendations are proposed:

1. The Facilities and Maintenance Division of the UOG should monitor the structure regularly
with attention given to the chains and other members that hold the swing in place. A structure
of this nature might encourage overcrowding due to large social groups thus causing the
mechanism that suspends the swing to experience excess stress.

2. The impact of this structure on the environmental landscape and social environment of the
UOG’s Turkeyen campus should be examined. If it proves to be a positive impact, the
university’s administration should spearhead initiatives that would engage the FOET to design,
construct and maintain similar structures within the Turkeyen and Tain campuses.

3. After the completion of this project, positive slopes should be maintained on the soil around
the Ramada. In the event of extreme storm events, this will allow the water to drain away from
the foundation of the structure. Negative slopes would move the water into the foundation
where it could infiltrate the foundation and adversely affect its structural integrity.

4. BW can be used as an alternative to GH wood. They are both hardwoods and they have very
similar engineering properties, however BW is as much as half the cost of GW at most local
sawmills. As such, a BOQ is provided with all GH members replaced with BW members (see
Appendix B). In comparison, constructing with BW will reduce the overall cost by $33,300.00.

54
7.0 References

1. Zhongbiao, Z. and Tai, D., 2013. Space construction and structural analysis of hotel plant
landscapes: A case study of Ramada Plaza Chongqing West. Journal of Landscape Research,
5(10), p.38.
2. Khing, K. H., et al. "The bearing-capacity of a strip foundation on geogrid-reinforced sand."
Geotextiles and geomembranes 12.4 (1993): 351-361.
3. Chen, W.F., 2007. Plasticity in reinforced concrete. J. Ross Publishing.

4. DuPont, J.N. and Marder, A.R., 1995. Thermal efficiency of arc welding processes. Welding
Journal-Including Welding Research Supplement, 74(12), p.406s.
5. Yunlian, Q., Ju, D., Quan, H. and Liying, Z., 2000. Electron beam welding, laser beam welding
and gas tungsten arc welding of titanium sheet. Materials Science and Engineering: A, 280(1),
pp.177-181.
6. Tanaka, M., Shimizu, T., Terasaki, T., Ushio, M., Koshiishi, F. and Yang C.-L., 2000. Effects of
activating flux on arc phenomena in gas tungsten arc welding. Science and technology of welding
and joining, 5(6), pp.397-402.
7. Pavlina, E.J. and Van Tyne, C.J., 2008. Correlation of yield strength and tensile strength with
hardness for steels. Journal of materials engineering and performance, 17(6), pp.888893.
8. Steven E. H., 2009. A Quick Guide to Welding and Weld Inspection. Properties of steel, pp. 46-
58.
9. Barnett, M.R., 2012. Advances in Wrought Magnesium Alloys The effects of carbon, pp.

87-89.

10. Beall, C. & Jaffe, R., 2003. Concrete and Masonry Data Book. First ed. London:

McGraw- Hill.

11. Borror, C., 2009. The Certified Quality Engineer Handbook. Third ed. Milwaukee: William A.
Tony.

12. Budhu, M., 2011. Soil mechanics and foundations. 3rd ed. Danvers: Wiley.

13. Frederic S. Merritt, M. K. L. J. T. R., 1995. Standard Handbook for Civil Engineers. Fourth Edition
ed. s.l.:McGraw-Hill Book Company.

55
14. Government of Queensland, 2016. Formwork Code of Practice 2016. [Online] Available at:
https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/data/assets/pdf_file/0016/115081/formwork-cop-2016.pdf
[Accessed 14 05 2018].
15. Ishmael, O., 2013. The Guyana Story: From Earliest Times to

Independence. First ed. s.l.:Xlibris Corporation.

16. Pavement Interactive. 2020. ACI Mix Design - Pavement Interactive. [online] Available at:
<https://pavementinteractive.org/referencedesk/design/mix-design/aci-mix-design/>[Accessed 13
May 2020].
17. Hart-Smith, L.J., 1973. Adhesive-bonded single-lap joints (p. 116). Washington, DC: National
Aeronautics and Space Administration.
18. Humphrey, C.J., 1915. Tests on the Durability of GH: Nectandra Rodiaei Schomb. Mycologia,
7(4), pp.204-209.
19. Aly, T. and Sanjayan, J.G., 2008. Factors contributing to early age shrinkage cracking of slag
concretes subjected to 7-days moist curing. Materials and Structures, 41(4), pp.633642.
20. Allen, J.D., Allen Engineering Corp, 1989. Floating vibrational screed. U.S. Patent 4,798,494.
21. Hansen, J.D. and Hansen, M.F., Hansen Joel D and Hansen Meloy F, 1991. Apparatus for
screeding and trowelling concrete. U.S. Patent 5,039,249.

22. Baldock, J.A. and Smernik, R.J., 2002. Chemical composition and bioavailability of thermally
altered Pinus resinosa (Red pine) wood. Organic Geochemistry, 33(9), pp.1093-1109.

23. Liu, K.H., Green Wheel Ind Co Ltd, 2001. Detachable swing. U.S. Patent 6,277,028.

24. Tambornino, C., Tambornino and Curt, 1997. S-hook with safety latch. U.S. Patent 5,664,304.

25. Winandy, J.E., Stark, N.M. and Clemons, C.M., 2004. Considerations in recycling of wood-plastic
composites. In 5th Global Wood and Natural Fibre Composites Symposium, April 27-28, 2004, in
Kassel, Germany:[9] Pages.

26. Orr, F.J., JOHN C KING LUMBER Co, 1927. Hardwood block flooring. U.S. Patent 1,622,103.

27. Wood-database.com. 2020. Bulletwood | The Wood Database - Lumber Identification

(Hardwood). [online] Available at: <http://www.wood-database.com/bulletwood/> [Accessed 23
September 2020].

56
28.Hardwoodlumbersuppliers.com. 2020. Hardwood Lumber Suppliers : Exotic Hardwoods And
Domestic Timber Supply. [online] Available at: <http://www.hardwoodlumbersuppliers.com/>
[Accessed 17 September 2020].

57
8.0 Appendix A – Concrete Mix Design

Table 1: Slump Ranges for Specific Applications

Retrieved from: https://pavementinteractive.org/reference-desk/design/mix-design/aci-mix-design/

Date Accessed: August 30th,2020

58
 Table 2: Approximate Mixing Water for Different Slumps Corresponding to their Respective
Maximum Aggregate Size

Retrieved from: https://pavementinteractive.org/reference-desk/design/mix-design/aci-mix-design/

Date Accessed: August 30th,2020

59
 Table 3: Water Cement Ratio and Compressive Strength Relationship

Retrieved from: https://pavementinteractive.org/reference-desk/design/mix-design/aci-mix-design/

Date Accessed: August 30th,2020

Table 4: Volume of Coarse Aggregate per Unit Volume of PCC for Various Fineness Modulus of Fine Aggregates

Retrieved from: https://pavementinteractive.org/reference-desk/design/mix-design/aci-mix-design/

Date Accessed: August 30th,2020

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9.0 Appendix B - Bill of Quantities using Bulletwood

DESIGN OF RAMADA FITTED WITH A DOUBLE SIDED SWING

Bill
Item Description Unit Quantity Price Amount
No.
1.00 Site preparation and excavation
Site clearance: clear site of shrubs, trees, undergrowth and
1.01 ft2 71.11 $40.00 $2,844.40
the like.
Excavation: excavate surface to reduced level by an
1.02 ft3 35.56 $40.00 $1,422.40
average depth of 6" and dispose of materials

1.03 Excavate foundation bed at existing level exceeding 18" ft3 106.65 $40.00 $4,266.00
in depth
1.04 Treat surface of all excavation against termites sum $5,000.00
1.05 Provide for keeping excavation free of water sum $1,000.00
1.06 Level and compact bottom of excavation ft2 71.11 $20.00 $1,422.20
Subtotal to summary $15,955.00

2.00 Sandfill and Blinding

Provide and place 6" thick compacted white sand to
2.01 bottom of excavation; white sand to be compacted to 95% ft3 35.56 $100.00 $3,556.00
Proctor density
2.02 Provide and place 2" thick 1:2 cement/sand blinding to ft3 7.78 $80.00 $622.40
sandfill in foundation bed
Subtotal to summary $4,178.40

3.00 Formwork
3.01 Provide a rough vertical finish to sides of strip footing BM 42.44 $240.00 $10,185.60
using 1"x12" formboard
3.02 Provide a rough vertical finish to sides of strip footing BM 5 $240.00 $1,200.00
using 1"x12" formboard
Subtotal to summary $11,385.60

4.00 Concrete works

4.01 Provide and place 4000 psi reinforced concrete mix to ft3 38.89 $1,450.00 $56,390.50
foundation bed
4.02 Provide and place 4000 psi concrete mix to blinding ft3 7.78 $1,450.00 $11,281.00

4.03 Provide and cast 4000 psi concrete column pedestals as ft3 5.52 $1,450.00 $8,004.00
directed by design
4.04 Provide 3/4" minus stone for the purpose of the concrete Ton 1 $9,300.00 $9,300.00
strip footing and 2" stone floor
4.05 Provide white sand for the purpose of the strip footing and ft3 9.13 $100.00 $9,301.00
column pedestals
Subtotal to summary $94,276.50

61
5.00 Reinforcement
Supply and install 5/8" dia main steel bars in strip footing
5.01 lghts 18 $1,200.00 $21,600.00
(4 main bars at top and bottom)
Supply and install 3/8" dia corrugated steel bar as stirrups
5.02 lghts 22 $700.00 $15,400.00
@ 6" cts
Supply binding wire to be used for the purpose of forming
5.03 sum $1,450.00
steel connections
Subtotal to summary $38,450.00

6.00 Superstructure
6.01 Wooden posts: 4, 4" x 4" BW. Posts @ 9' each BM 48 $200.00 $9,600.00
Wooden posts: 5, 4" x 4" BW. Posts @ 9' each for
6.02 BM 51 $200.00 $10,200.00
perimeter beam and beam to support swing

6.03 BM 52 $190.00 $9,880.00

Provide and fix 2"x 6" BW. Rafters as detailed by design
6.04 Provide and fix 2"x 6" BW. sway braces as detailed by BM 53 $190.00 $10,070.00
design
6.05 Provide and install 1"x 3" Wood Plastic Composite ft2 84 $20.00 $1,680.00
(WPC) Roofing sheets to rafters
Subtotal to summary $41,430.00

7.00 Swing seat members

7.01 Wooden swing seat: 2" * 2" BW. arm support, top rail, BM 17 $190.00 $3,230.00
bottom rail and stile as designed
7.02 Obtain and assemble 1/2" x 3" T&G planks for seat as BM 6 $150.00 $900.00
designed
Eye bolts; (1/2" -13 x 4”)forged steel machinery eye
7.03 No. 6 $180.00 $1,080.00
bolts)
7.04 Swing hanger No. 2 $800.00 $1,600.00
7.05 S' hooks (1/2") No. 2 $203.00 $406.00
7.06 Maillon Rapide: (1/2" quick links) No. 8 $200.00 $1,600.00
7.07 Swing chain: 3/8" short link zinccoated swing chain. ft 15 $150.00 $2,250.00
Subtotal to summary $11,066.00

8.00 Miscellaneous and external finishes

8.01 Provide 1" roofing screws lbs 2 $1,200.00 $2,400.00
8.02 Provide 4" nails lbs 3 $300.00 $900.00
8.03 Provide 1/2"-13x10" Hex bolt, nut, washer unit 8 $150.00 $1,200.00
8.04 Provide 3" wood screws lbs 2 $300.00 $600.00
8.05 Provide and install 4" x 4" tiles on column pedestals No. 552 $90.00 $49,680.00

8.06 Supply tin set to be used for tiling sum $3,000.00

62
 8.07 Provide and apply Primer on seat members, superstructure gal. 1 $4,600.00 $4,600.00
and roof elements of Ramada
8.08 Provide and apply wood paint on seat members, gal. 1 $5,300.00 $5,300.00
superstructure and roof elements of Ramada
8.09 Gravel flooring: Provide and place stone as the flooring, sum $9,000.00
2" high.
Subtotal to summary $76,680.00

Summary
Bill no. Description Amount
1 Site preparation and excavation $15,955.00
2 Sandfill and blinding $4,178.40
3 Formwork $11,385.60
4 Concrete works $94,276.50
5 Reinforcement $38,450.00
6 Superstructure $41,430.00
7 Swing seat members $11,066.00
8 Miscellaneous and external finishes $76,680.00
Total $293,421.50

63