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| 6 Jun 2013 Bricks
In the Perth metropolitan area, a large majority of all new homes are double brick structure. However in many regional areas of WA, framed construction is very popular. One of the main reasons why double brick is so popular is because of our sandy soil. The soil type is very stable with very little ground […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Employer Record Keeping
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| 6 Jun 2013 Charging for Quotes: Builders and Subcontractors
Charging for quotations is not a common building industry practice. But builders can pick and choose their jobs, and charge for quotes and in order to discourage “check pricing” by some consumers. A problem can arise when some financial institutions require three quotations before approving a loan amount. Many builders particularly in regional areas are […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Decking
As the general public and builders become more environmentally aware, the pressure is on suppliers to meet their needs. Selecting environmentally friendly construction timbers is one area where the builder has an increasing amount of choices. ‘Eco’ timber is the common name given to timbers that are harvested with the community in mind; […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Construction Times
While many contracts specify a definite time period in terms of “x” number of calendar or working days (which exclude weekends and public holidays), some contracts do not and this space is left blank. This does not mean that the builder has an infinite amount of time to complete the project. Courts have ruled on […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Efflorescence on Bricks
The growth of white crystals on the surfaces of brickwork and blockwork is called efflorescence and is a common problem particularly in high rainfall areas. Efflorescence is caused by the presence of water-soluble salts which occur naturally in cement-water mixtures. The salts are brought to the surface of bricks or blocks as hydroxides when the […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Alternative Solutions in Building
When the Performance-Based Building Code was introduced in 1996, WA was the first State to adopt it. The new Code provided the flexibility that was lacking in the Uniform Building By-Laws that prescribed the minimum requirements for compliance of residential and non-residential buildings. The performance-based Building Code of Australia (BCA) maintains the prescriptive requirements as […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Bathroom Tips
Tips to having a healthy bathroom Brand new bathrooms look clean and fresh. Sparkling tiles and tapware and transparent shower screens. But with use, the build up of soaps, cleaners, and general debris makes areas of the bathroom a breeding ground for mould and start to look old and tired quickly. Invest in the […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Balconies and Decking
Pest damage, water rot, corrosion, or other physical damage to your decking or rails can occur in obscure locations. Timber can fail for a number of reasons including incorrect timber selected (ie not suitable for an external structure), poor maintenance, or insect attack by the European House Borers or termites. Concrete balconies can […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Bathroom Renovations
Always seek professional advice early on. Use a Master Builders member company. Professionals understand the process involved and by developing your bathroom in consultation with experts, you’re more likely to avoid potential problems. They will know what can be achieved given your available space and budget. They can also assist with product selection and provide […]