“I’ve had builders come up to me and complain that toothing is slower and more expensive to implement than the way they are used to doing things. I tell them that it takes me just as long to do toothing as it takes them to break and place half-blocks, plus it’s much stronger. Builders need to realize that, but it takes time and practice, just like it did for me.”Pierre Rene
Mr. Pierre Rene has been working in the construction sector for 38 years. He began his building apprenticeship when he was 12 years old, working on site as a laborer and progressing up the ranks, earning his first independent project when he was 27. Pierre lives with his wife and 7 children.
Since December 2012, Pierre has participated in J/P HRO-Build Change homeowner-driven retrofitting projects in Delmas 32.
He tried to combine work with schooling initially and believed it made more sense to work full time. His sites in Delmas 32 are not always active, as homeowners struggle to gather funds for improvements. He will soon begin work on a home in Canaan and two in Miragoâne.
“The two new jobs I have in Miragoâne are because people saw me using toothing on my brother’s house. After I explained why I did it they asked me to become their builder,” he explained. “People are very aware of the need to build safer, especially those who were victims of the last earthquake. My costs when building safely haven’t really changed, and any necessary increase has been accepted and understood by homeowners. The principles I’ve learned in Delmas 32 are the ones I now apply everywhere else.”
“People are very aware of the need to build safer, especially those who were victims of the last earthquake.”
Pierre has trained over 25 people and currently employs four. He now ensures that all his employees apply earthquake-resistant building principles. He encourages them to attend Build Change training sessions.
Some builders find the different techniques difficult. As Pierre explained, “I’ve had builders come up to me and complain that toothing is slower and more expensive to implement than the way they are used to doing things. I tell them that it takes me just as long to do toothing as it takes them to break and place half-blocks, plus it’s much stronger. Builders need to realize that, but it takes time and practice, just like it did for me.”
Pierre Rene works in the La Paix area of Delmas 32 and has recently completed his 3rd house, shown on the right, for Kendy Lafortune, as part of the J/P HRO-Build Change homeowner-driven retrofitting project.