Winter Construction
Construction in winter poses challenges for clients and builders. The first consideration is that inclement weather could delay the project. Most building contracts entitle the builder to claim time extension for delays due to inclement weather. In the contract there is usually a process whereby the builder must notify the client within a certain period […]
Wall Cladding
Wall Cladding – Vinyl Many builders or renovators are looking for an attractive facade to utilize on their project that is attractive, energy efficient along with ease of care and long lasting product. It is used in existing fibro, asbestos or timber homes. Vinyl wall cladding is available in a wide range of colours to […]
Timber Floorboards – movement
There are some important factors you should understand about timber floors. Timber is a natural product that behaves differently through the seasons. Particularly summer and winter. All timber moves to some extent within itself according to the type of fixing. 1mm gaps between some boards are not uncommon. Gaps that open during drier months often […]
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 […]
Retaining Walls on Boundaries
Retaining walls are not dividing fences and are subject to different legislative requirements. When installing retaining walls along boundaries, they must be wholly constructed inside the property – unless you have you consent of the adjoining landowner. It is a good idea to have the boundary line pegged by a licensed land surveyor to be […]
Smart Planning Your Home and Garden
Smart planning your garden With smart palnning your garden can help control the temperature of your home. Plants and trees moderate temperature, keeping your hosue cool in summer, and sheltering it from the cold in winter. By choosing deciduous trees that shed leaves in autumn, you can still let in the warmth of the winter […]
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, […]
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 […]
Small Lot Developments
Unit and small lot developments are becoming very popular these days. There are a number of significant differences both before and during construction between unit development and a typical single detached housing project. At the pre-construction stage you will need to obtain a development approval from the local authority for the unit development. Zoning requirements […]
Survey Plans
A legal survey exists for all land (lots) in Western Australia. Survey plans are the official record of the legal boundaries of land and will usually indicate the dimensions and size of a lot. Three types of legal survey plans are available from the public register and copies can be purchased online from the Western Australian Land Information […]