You need to use crushed gravel, 3/4 inch max is standard for 3000 psi concrete, using round river stone is a mistake. Don't let anyone tell you that crushed gravel is not available...beams, as your post indicates, you are working on the fence first (same as I did, which is the best way to go). Once you get going on the house you need a mix to give you 3500 psi, in my opinion.

Be careful with the block work, most block is junk and you have to push the workers to fill the cores if not, your "strength" comes from the rendering which can be inches on each side if they don't get things plumb right away.

You are in my neck of the woods as well as another member who happens to be in Tanjay at the moment; I'd be more than happy to stop by with the wife as we can pass on some guidance on what we went through.

Shawn

 

Just love that Phrase. Seems to be my Wife's parting words before she hands over any money for anything large or Non Food.

JP