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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 Sheds and Patios
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 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 Greywater
Both the mandatory installation of rainwater tanks and the installation of piping to allow a greywater system in new housing are being considered by the state government as part of its planned 5 Star Plus Stage 2 changes to building regulations. While the installation of rainwater tanks is quite straightforward (except for what size tanks […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Painting
Giving your home a fresh coat of paint not only freshens and updates the look of your home, it also maintains the surfaces like exposed timber (veranda posts, timber windows and doors), metal and wall finishes externally and internally. Many people opt to DIY, but it you are looking to have painting work done by […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Home Security Systems
Home security systems are becoming cheaper, much easier to use and more accessible from wherever you are thanks to improving technology, says Daniel Lee from Master Builders. There are many different systems to choose from and many experienced and approved providers that will select, install, monitor and maintain your system. You can have a […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Passive Solar Design
Passive solar design techniques often require little or no extra capital outlay but can provide more comfortable living conditions and reduce demand on energy for space heating or cooling. Taking advantage of natural sunlight to provide winter warmth and planning for suitable shading for summer will save money and improve comfort levels in your new […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Home Maintenance
When we purchase a new car, we know we can save money and reduce its depreciation by keeping up with servicing and maintenance. As part of vehicle servicing, the mechanic checks things like fuses and seatbelts to ensure they are safe. But what about our homes – our biggest investment? What sort of maintenance and […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Preliminary Agreements
A Preliminary Agreement (PA), or Preparation of Plans Agreement, is a common document used by builders dealing with clients in the early stages of building a new home. These agreements do not involve building work and are preparatory to entering a building contract. Some common features are: the consumer is committed to paying a “deposit”, […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Home Finishes
Home finishes When you build or renovate, the finishing touches are the ones that make the house into a home, the personal choices made of the furniture, decorative pieces, the wall colours and floor finishes can make a stark space into a welcoming cosy room or a modern energising area. The dilemma is that there […]