Cut costs with cheaper brown block, Batswana told

Reached while demonstrating how to build with the block at the just-ended BOCCIM Northern Trade Fair (BNTF), Brown said that 'Brown Block' is a brick that they (Mercier Brun) make for commercial purposes. "We mix concrete with sand and cement and create a 'Brown Block' that dries after 24 hours. "It does not need to be watered while drying. Construction with this brown block can be achieved with unskilled labour,'' he said.

Brown said that the only tools required for moulding the brick are a shovel - for mixing, and a builder's trowel (for finishing), adding that there is no separate energy source, like electricity, necessary to mould the bricks."This, together with their longevity and sound insulation properties, makes them environmentally friendly with a low carbon footprint. Moulds are lubricated with used cooking oil,'' he said. He said for the days the BNTF was on, they had been having many people visiting their stall to learn more about  their product and services.