Features
-
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 would have ... -
Efflorescence: the dreaded white powder
Efflorescence deposits to external terracotta tiling. Efflorescence defects, although not classified as a functional failure, can detract from the overall finish and result in annoying ongoing ... -
Elevators making their way into the industry
The rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is well and truly under way around Australia, which has opened up the need for innovations in ... -
Smart homes, smart revenue
One-third of new homes and a quarter of renovations include smart wiring, which means greater sales value for builders. Paul Skelton explains. You’ve probably heard about home automation, ... -
Creating a functional and safe kitchen
Kitchens can be a beautiful part of the home and it is too easy to focus on the aethetics, but as Selina Zwolsman explains, it must ... -
Simon Owen explains the proper installation of aluminium-framed windows
Despite prescriptive instructions in window system manufacturers’ literature and warnings in entry-level manuals aimed at building investigators, the lack of correct installation of dams at the ... -
Non-conforming products prompting changes to the CodeMark certification scheme
The Australian building industry is highly regulated, yet incidents of non-conforming or non-compliant products being used on building sites still occur and have prompted changes to ... -
Nailing connector technique
Best practice in nails and connectors goes way beyond whacking it with a hammer. Dean Ashton from Simpson Strong-Tie explains why the correct installation is critical. ... -
Traditional trades still making an impact
Traditional trades still play an important role in Australia’s building industry despite a move towards mass production and the use of modern technology. However, a lack ... -
Simple measures to improve airtightness
Much of Australia’s home building stock is below par for building performance, but a few simple measures can be employed to improve airtightness and home owner ...
