Pool Barriers
If you are thinking about swimming pool for your home you must consider the barrier requirements. The requirements are applicable to temporary or permanent pools or spas that hold more than 30cm of water for the purposes of swimming, wading or the like – so not applicable to a dam, fish pond or water feature. […]
Pool and Spa Safety Barriers
With hot weather across the state, pools are a hot topic. Most people would be aware that an approval is required to install a swimming pool. Concrete, fibre-glass, or liner pools all need approval, as well as above-ground and temporary pools. The reason for the need for a Building Permit for swimming pools is not […]
Brick Paving
One advantage of clay brick paving is that it does not fade and generally requires little maintenance. Usually sweeping and hosing will keep them looking good, but high pressure cleaning might be needed where there is excessive garden grime or where moss may have grown. This can be slippery and needs to be removed. If […]
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 […]
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; […]
Cubby Houses
Although most Local Governments take a relaxed approach to the humble cubby house when it comes to requiring approvals, it is important that before you consider investing time and money that you ring your local government or visit their website as they may have information regarding their policy or requirements before their installation. Building […]
Prefabricated Fencing
Prefabricated Fencing – New Innovation keeping with tradition When choosing a fence, builders and renovators need to consider the style of home they want to achieve and the purpose of the fence before being able to select the most suitable product on the market. Traditional fencing systems such as brick, timber or corrugated fences all […]
Dividing Fences and Disputes
Dividing fences are the source of a great deal of angst between new (and not so new) neighbours. Rights and obligations of neighbours are covered by the Dividing Fences Act 1961. It is a good idea to discuss any fencing matter with your local authority before proceeding unilaterally without consulting your neighbour. In relation to […]
Dividing Fences and Retaining Walls
Dividing fences are the source of a great deal of angst between new (and not so new) neighbours. Dividing fences are covered by the Dividing Fences Act. In relation to dividing fences, the Department of Housing and Works has produced an excellent booklet – “Dividing Fences”, which can be freely downloaded at www.dhw.wa.gov.au. Retaining walls […]
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 […]