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| 6 Jun 2013 Timber Rot
Timber rot was a major problem in some Perth homes. A survey a few years ago suggested that houses in Subiaco, Ardross, Floreat, Nedlands and Mosman Park were most likely to suffer from timber rot. This incidence of timber rot is not surprising as it usually occurs in older homes and caused by a lack […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Thermal Mass
Thermal mass is often talked about as vital for good passive-solar design. Thermal mass in WA is easier to provide that you think, purely due to the materials we prefer to build with. The installation of concrete floors and brick walls provides the thermal mass of our buildings. We must make sure that it works […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Windows
Window considerations are often underrated by homebuyers when they are planning to build their new home. However with a little pre-planning and thought, correct window selection for your needs can occur. The correct size and shape of windows is important to maximise the energy efficiency of your new home and reduce your energy bills. The […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Renovation and other checks
If you are uncertain as to the condition of the building’s foundations or the general soundness of the house, it may be worthwhile to call in an inspector or engineer for a professional opinion. You should find, however, that if you borrow funds for your extensions, the lender will have their own inspectors check that […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Roof Leaks
Leaking roofs are a common complaint during winter, in particular in new homes that are being tested by the rain for the first time. Leaks can be caused by either a construction problem, lack of maintenance by the owner, or both. Some of the construction issues that can be the cause of roof leaks include: […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Salinity and Construction
Salt attack is an increasingly important problem in Western Australia due to our high level of coastal development and a growing salinity problem in our wheat belt and agricultural areas. Damage to buildings by “urban salinity” or “salt damp”, results from salt and water moving through capillary action through the pores of materials such as […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Security of Payments Legislation
The Construction Contracts Act, also known as security of payment legislation, commenced on 1 January 2005. Part of this legislation covers disputes between building owners and builders. The laws are designed to maintain the flow of funds between parties even when a dispute occurs and not allow an owner to retain monies owed under a […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Site Works and Contracts
Site costs can be a difficult element of a building contract. In most situations, builders will not specify an exact amount for site works, but will nominate a “provisional sum” or best estimate which may be adjusted up or down depending on work actually required. Under the Home Building Contracts Act a builder cannot just […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Storage in Homes
It is only when you have lived in a home with no storage that you appreciate how important it is to have. These days, most new home builders and designers are very good at including built in robes, linen cupboards, and sufficient cabinetry in bathrooms, laundries and kitchens. They know how much emphasis is placed […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Shower Floors – Slope
Tiling in Shower Recesses The minimum standard required for wet areas in residential buildings is contained in the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and AS3740 – Waterproofing of wet areas in residential buildings. This includes tiling and gradients of bathroom floors including shower recesses. The recommended ratio of fall within showers is between 1:60 and […]