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| 6 Jun 2013 Skylights – Fire Protection
Fire separation for buildings as detailed in the Building Code of Australia (BCA) should be considered when planning placements of skylights. The BCA places limitations on the location of skylights near property boundaries and adjacent adjoining buildings to reduce the likelihood of fire spread between buildings. Generally the provisions are based on nominated distances from […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Termites – About
Termites have existed for approximately 100 million years. There are about 350 species in Australia, of which approximately 30 species are known to cause significant damage to timber and buildings. Most damage is caused by subterranean termites (those that form nests in the ground). These nests may be formed in the soil near ground level, […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Renovations – Helpful Hints
Leading home additions and extensions specialists now have their own qualified consulting architects and design draftsmen. They handle every phase of the project, from design concept through to construction, including all statutory and local authority submissions and approvals. Every extension should be designed to meet the specific needs of the client. Consultation between family and […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Skylights – Location of Skylights
The skylight should be located on the roof in such a manner that it is clear of overhanging trees and depending on aspect, is configured to meet lighting requirements of the room. They should also be located clear of obstructions including hips, valleys, air conditioning, vent pipes, solar water service etc. As skylights do not […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Steel – the alternative subfloor solution
Recent trends to more environmentally conscious building have heightened the appeal of lightweight suspended steel subfloor systems for residential homes. This is ideal to minimise the cut & fill associated with sloping and difficult sites and takes advantage of coastal and mountain views without destroying the landscape. Innovative steel bearer & joist designs allow for […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Redevelopment Authorities
The WA Government has established a number of redevelopment authorities to expedite the development of land in WA. They operate by suspending local and state planning laws and introducing redevelopment schemes to govern development in a defined area. Current redevelopment authorities include: Armadale Redevelopment Authority The Armadale Redevelopment Authority (ARA) is tasked is to plan, […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Redundancy in construction
All Construction Contractors in the general building and construction industry need to be aware of the federal “Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020” which covers employees working on-site. This includes any construction, alteration, extension, repair, maintenance, demolition, or dismantling of buildings that form part of land. Visit the Fair Work website for full details on the Award. The “redundancy” clause […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Termites and Building a New Home
Termites and building a new home Before construction commences it is advisable that discussion takes place between the builder and the owner. The selection of a termite barrier system should not be based merely on price. Other considerations such as the topography of the site, known risk factors of the area and construction techniques must […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Patios and Sheds
There are many contractors who earn their livelihood building small sheds, pergolas, patios etc and perform quite well. One area that you should carefully note is that under the Builders’ Registration Act any project valued at over $20k requires the services of a registered builder. Handypersons who advertise in community newspapers are therefore restricted in […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Paving – Other Information
Efflorescence – Do not be alarmed A white deposit known as efflorence may sometimes appear on any concrete or masonry product. It does not affect structural integrity and will dissipate over time. Efflorence is not indicative of a flawed product. Efflorence is a temporary condition where salts in the soil migrate via evaporation to the […]