Columns
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Covering all bases of home insurance
Are insurers fair-weather friends? Jerry Tyrrell sets out the issues and puts forward solutions. Most insurers I know have paid out claims even when ... -
Who’s checking the NCC?
We need a simple and agreed way of self-assessing and quality assuring building work against the regulations. Jerry Tyrrell pleads for clarity. Journalists are ... -
It it leaks, it fails: alternative solutions for wet areas
While alternative solutions are now acceptable in building projects, you must ensure that the one you choose, or are provided with, actually complies with ... -
Bamboo: timber or grass?
Ted Riddle considers the advantages and disadvantages of bamboo flooring. I recently attended the HIA Sydney Home Show, and while it wasn’t as big as ... -
Membrane performance: how thick are you?
Andrew Golle looks at the various reasons why membrane systems fail and the best ways to overcome them. Liquid applied membrane systems fail for a ... -
Timber buildings cost less than concrete construction
The facts are now beyond doubt. Timber doesn’t just compete with traditional concrete in midrise construction; it wins. Kevin Ezard explains. This declaration was ... -
The two things to remember when waterproofing
Mushrooms and mould, rotting timber and soggy carpet – these are all common signs of a leaking shower or waterproofing failure. Andrew Golle, an ... -
Oak: the best timber in Australia?
Ted Riddle shares his thoughts on oak and explains why, despite some faults, he rates it as the best timber in Australia. I recently had ... -
Waterproofing and screeds – above or below?
Andrew Golle clears up the confusion surrounding screeds and explains the difference between waterproofing above or below. Providing surface and sub-surface drainage by implementing falls, ... -
What you need to know about thermal mass
David Arnott explains the ins and outs of thermal mass and how it affects building materials. The term passive design is one that many people ...
