Topping the Lava Rock Wall

Jai Ganesha!

This week Umut and his team from Innov8 construction have begin adding the top layer of stones to Iraivan Temple's lava rock wall. The east side of the wall is nearing completion and this is the last layer of added stone upon it. They are able to move quickly, since this part doesn't require large amounts of concrete. It does however need a very strong mix that can withstand the countless years of rains that will fall upon these top pieces. Umut must also go through ever joint while the concrete is wet and make it look more natural and finished. He tells us that once we remove the tarps, to won't take long for the elements to turn all the stones a uniform dark-grey color. It should look striking in juxtaposition to the white granite temple above. Aum Namah Sivaya.

From here you can see what a massive undertaking this lava rock wall is

Each stone, hand-picked to create something amazing

As you can see, the right side of the steps now has a finished lava rock wall (apart from the task of staining the grout joints, that is)

The top has been completed up to this point, where they are currently working

Umut explains a little about where they are at with the project

Nice to see the top stones in place

Umut shows us the detailed work he must do with a simple screwdriver

He has to go over every joint to get it just right

They are cementing the stones at this point, but they have selected and placed stones further down the wall.

It moves quickly once the stones have been dry-fit along the wall

Aum.

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