Viral Photo of Concrete-Modelled Beds Elicits Mixed Reactions

Concrete-modeled permanent bed
A concrete-modeled permanent bed that was shared on Thursday, June 1, 2023.
Photo
Pintrest/Khakis Mojinga

A section of Kenyans, on Thursday, June 1, expressed interest in converting their home wooden bed spaces into concrete-modelled permanent structures. 

Concrete-modelled permanent beds are often used in industrial settings, such as factories and warehouses but can also be used in commercial settings, such as hotels and restaurants.

However, ordinary homeowners were contemplating converting their usual bed spaces into permanently build concrete beds, which some claimed would be used by guests or children.

"I'm thinking of replacing the bed I use at my upcountry house with this concrete-modelled bed. I invite your views on the same," Khakis Mojinga tweeted. 

Concrete-modeled permanent beds
A photo collage of concrete-modeled permanent beds that was shared on social media on Thursday, June 1, 2023.
Photo
Khakis Mojinga

Some responses opposed the idea, with some tweeps raising concerns about long-term illnesses attributed to sleeping on cold floors. 

"There is a reason beds are made of wood. That bed will make you sick slowly because of the cold, especially should you fail to put cardboard underneath the mattress to prevent the cold from penetrating into your mattress. Long story short, that bed is not good," one Nicholas Ombok responded.

Others, however, argued that the beds are durable, can withstand wear and tear and are easy to clean.

Apart from the generous space that concrete-modelled permanent beds offer, they are fire-resistant and do not produce quacky sounds. 

It was observed that concrete-modelled permanent beds are a good choice for businesses that need a durable, easy-to-clean, and fire-resistant bed.

The photo shared in Kenya went viral in West African countries like Ghana and Nigeria, with the locals also divided on adopting the trend. 

Among the disadvantages raised was that the beds can be very expensive to install and restructure. 

The kitchen of a housing unit in the Bondeni Affordable Housing Project in Nakuru County on Monday February 13, 2023
The kitchen of a housing unit in the Bondeni Affordable Housing Project in Nakuru County on Monday, February 13, 2023
PCS

How Concrete-Modelled Permanent Beds Are Made

Concrete-modelled permanent beds comprised concrete mix reinforced with steel, and can be made in various shapes and sizes to fit the application's specific needs.

They are made by pouring concrete into a mould shaped like the desired bed. The mould is made of wood or metal and is designed to be watertight. Once the concrete has cured, the mould is removed, and the bed is ready to use.

1. Choose the location for the bed, mostly in a sunny spot free of debris.

2. Prepare the ground. The ground should be level and free of any large rocks or roots.

3. Create the mould: The mould can be wood or metal. The mould should be watertight and the same shape as the desired bed.

4. Pour the concrete: The concrete should be poured into the mould and levelled off.

5. Let the concrete cure: The concrete must cure for at least 24 hours before it can be used.

6. Remove the mould: Once the concrete has cured, the mould can be removed.

7. Enjoy your new concrete-modelled permanent bed. 

Those seeking to build concrete-modelled permanent beds should use high-quality concrete to make the bed more durable and long-lasting.

Builders are also advised to add water-resistant additives to the concrete that will help to prevent the concrete from cracking or leaking.