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Building a wooden structure

A group of volunteers assemble a simple wooden structure using basic tools and materials - and a set of instructions. To start with, the pieces of wood are measured and cut into the lengths needed, using tape measures and saws. The group sets out the corner posts, securing them by digging earth foundations and checking they're upright by using a spirit level. The lengths of timber are joined together using hammers and nails. A technique called 'splicing' is used to join two lengths of wood together to make longer lengths needed for the building. Once the outer frames of the walls are made, diagonal bracing is nailed in position to give added strength and to keep the structure stable in windy conditions. Finally, rafters are added to make a framework for the roof.

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Duration:

4 minutes