The requirements for smaller concrete jobs are subject to the same strength and quality requirements as for pre-mixed concrete. Yet there seems to be a lack of knowledge about how to estimate the raw materials for smaller volumes of hand mixed concrete and subsequently there sometimes ends up being a loss of quality, particularly strength in the finished product.
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The standard practice when dimensioning floor plans is to show room size dimensions between the structural components of the walls and not include internal wall linings, for example plasterboard or wall tiling. However for ceiling heights, there is some difference of opinion within the building industry as to whether the dimension includes floor and ceiling linings or finishes.
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HIA receives many enquiries in relation to the residential timber framing manual or AS 1684 as to which is the better document to adopt, the simplified version or AS 1684 Part 4 or the standard version that part 4 was based on, AS 1684 part 2. The following information may assist members to choose.
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Condensation is an issue that comes up as a technical query whenever beads of moisture appear on non-absorbent surfaces. The effects of condensation which can become a problem are: blistering of paint, mould growth on walls and ceilings, water stains and the musty smell that eventuates.
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Concrete is one of the easiest products to customise, it can be ground, polished, stamped, or stained, you can have glass, marble chips or other objects embedded in it. You can mould and sculpt it to create your own exclusive design and turn a rudimentary kitchen bench top into a distinctive piece of art.
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Retaining walls are a common feature of many backyards and whilst they may be a small part of the building work, it is important that they are built to suit the block of land and to ensure their safety.
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When tiling walls and floors, there are a few tips that can help you avoid some of the common problems and perhaps give you some ideas to help your next tiling job go smoothly.
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The HIA Guide has been prepared to provide members with support in their day to day business. The primary aim of the Guide is to give an unbiased workable solution to non-regulated construction aspects where workmanship may lead to a variation in the finished product.
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The HIA Guide has been prepared to assist in disputes with clients.The HIA Guide includes a set of accepted industry standards. In the case of a dispute over defective work or misunderstanding over qualities of workmanship and tolerances it can be used as a point of reference for both the builder and the owner.
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There are a number of fundamental requirements and procedures that need to be followed to ensure long term performance of Tongue & Groove (T&G) flooring. The following requirements are applicable where a feature floor or covered floor are placed on the traditional timber bearer and joist systems.
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When specifying concrete it is important to take into account the season and the time of placement, as there is a different ordering and placement procedure between hot and cold weather. Precautions especially need to be taken when the air temperature falls below 10°C.
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