Blog Articles

Cheryl Barasa

Using EPS Panels in Renovation Projects

Not all building challenges can be solved with concrete. In one of our recent projects, we were asked to turn a tricky sunken floor into a usable balcony. Heavy infill wasn’t an option, so we turned to Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) panels.

Strong, lightweight, and safe, EPS allowed us to level the space without compromising the structure.

At Design Key Builders, we embrace modern solutions like EPS because innovation isn’t just the future of construction, it’s the smarter way to build today.

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Cheryl Barasa

WHAT ARE PPR PIPES IN CONSTRUCTION?

PPR pipes have become a trusted choice in modern plumbing and industrial systems thanks to their durability, resistance to heat and chemicals, and leak-proof fusion joints. Unlike metal or PVC alternatives, they don’t corrode, maintain water purity, and can last over 50 years with minimal maintenance. Safe, eco-friendly, and versatile, PPR is redefining reliability in piping solutions.

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Cheryl Barasa

Skimming vs. Plastering – What’s the Difference in Construction?

Plastering builds it! Skimming perfects it!
In construction, these two terms get tossed around like they’re the same thing, but they’re not. Plastering is the heavy-duty process that shapes, levels, and protects your walls. Skimming? That’s the art of giving them a flawless, paint-ready finish. Think of plastering as the structure, and skimming as the polish. Both essential, but for very different reasons.

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Cheryl Barasa

How to Renovate an Old House the Right Way: 7 Things You Should Know!

There’s something special about old houses. The kind of charm you can’t build from scratch. Maybe it’s the creaking floors, the thick walls, or just the stories that seem to live in every corner. But turning that character into a safe, functional home takes work and more than most people expect. In this guide, I share what I’ve learned about renovating older homes: the surprises that pop up, the things you can’t ignore, and how to bring out the best in a building without losing what makes it unique. If you’re thinking about giving an old house a new life, this is a great place to start.

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Cheryl Barasa

What’s the Difference Between an Associate Quantity Surveyor and a Quantity Surveyor?

The difference between an Associate Quantity Surveyor and a fully qualified Quantity Surveyor is often misunderstood. While both play essential roles in cost management and project planning, their levels of training, responsibility, and authority vary greatly. Whether you’re a client looking to hire the right professional or a graduate navigating your career path, this article breaks down their roles, qualifications, and growth paths according to Kenya’s industry standards.

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Cheryl Barasa

Why Are Staircases Usually on the Right?

Ever noticed how most staircases in homes tend to be on the right side? This common design choice has a story. Whether you’re building, designing, or just curious, this read will change how you look at staircases forever.

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Cheryl Barasa

What are the benefits of touchless toilets?

Public or private, bathrooms are one of the biggest hotspots for germ transmission. The touchless toilet has become a game-changing solution that eliminates the need for contact, enhancing hygiene while upgrading everyday comfort.

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Cheryl Barasa

Buying Construction Materials in Kenya? Here’s What to Prioritize First

Before starting any construction project, there’s one decision every builder in Kenya must get right: choosing the right construction materials. With the rising cost of building and a market full of substandard products, it’s no longer just about price. It’s about value, strength, and long-term savings. Whether you’re a fundi, a student in construction, or finally building your dream plot home, this guide will help you prioritize what truly matters when buying materials. It will help you build once, and build right.

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Bonding Agents in Construction: What Is a Bonding Agent and How It Works

In the world of construction, strength and durability often grab the spotlight, but what about the materials that quietly hold everything together? Bonding agents might not be as glamorous as steel beams or towering cranes, yet they play a crucial role in ensuring new materials adhere seamlessly to old surfaces, preventing cracks, leaks, and costly repairs. Let’s see how bonding agents work, why they matter, and how choosing the right one can make all the difference in your next project.

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