Columns
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A ready-made future
Prefabricated buildings can meet the challenge of affordability, rapid completion and sustainability for a growing population. Kevin Ezard reports. Timber offsite construction is emerging as the ... -
Ahead of the curve
International shower solution specialist WEDI has recently entered the Australian market. Cameron Grimes takes a look at what the company has to offer. German-based WEDI is ... -
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 they did ... -
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 taught to ... -
If 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 legislative requirements. ... -
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 before, it ... -
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 number of ... -
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 made following ... -
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 assessor and ... -
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 the pleasure ...