A home improvement project is a major investment that you should leave to a professional builder specialising in renovations.

Finding the right renovations builder requires careful scrutiny of a contractor’s background. You’ll need to check on the following:

Samples of work: An established contractor will be able to show you examples of his work, including any ongoing project. His portfolio will give you an idea of the kind of work he is capable of doing.

Experience: A contractor’s training and length of experience will help you determine if he can complete your home project successfully.

Client references: A contractor’s past can help predict the future of your project. You’ll want to know how he completed his past projects and whether he was easy to work with. A professional will readily provide references including their contact details which you can use to verify work examples given, as well as check for construction problems that they may have encountered.

Proper insurance: Always ask a contractor to show proof of insurance and the kind of coverage. You’ll want to know if he has Contractors All Risks, Public Liability and Workers Compensation coverage which will keep you free from liability for any property damage and worker injury that may occur on your property.

Important issues

Before starting any construction project, you’ll need to be clear about some important matters:

Permissions and Building approvals:

Home improvement projects generally require prior permission of the local council. Ensure that your builder will obtain all of these for you, and ask to see the final approval in writing

Written quotation:

Before hiring a contractor, always ask for a written quotation which spells out the following:

Construction details: such as grade, size, quantity and type of materials, parts and accessories needed for the work.

Payment schedule: This should specify the amount of deposit, progress claims and the due date of the balance after completion.

Project drawings: You’ll need to see the 2-dimensional drawings of the proposed renovations before proceeding with the work to ensure that your contractor’s plans match the design that you approved for the signing of the contract. This will also be the basis of the contractor’s scope of work.

Other details that you should discuss with your contractor are parking and deliveries, services and utility repairs (if damaged), cleanup of rubbish and excess materials, and methods and regularity of communication.

You’ll want to start your search for a contractor by asking friends and relatives for referrals and set up a site inspection to meet them face to face. You can also get some names of contractors from local licensing authorities and trade associations such as the Housing Industry Association, or display centres such as The Home Ideas Centre in Brisbane.

Renovation Builder selection should be a careful process if you want to achieve your dream without hassles and have a stunning but practical addition to your home and lifestyle

A patio or pergola adds beauty to any home and when attached to the side of your home, it can also extend living space to the outdoors. Whether in the form of a gazebo, patio cover or entry way, this type of structure easily provides style and function, making it a popular home addition. Building one is easy with the help of a professional builder or you can install one of your own after choosing from among a wide variety of kits.

Advantages of patio/pergola kits

Many homeowners prefer to install pre-manufactured pergola kits as a sensible compromise between building your own from scratch and having one built for you. Homeowners choose kits because these are:

• convenient
• inexpensive
• easy to set up with or without professional assistance and
• are available in many styles and materials to suit your home

Materials

1. Natural wood: Wood is most often used for patios and pergolas because it has “character”, is pleasing to look at and adds warmth to a garden or outdoor setting. Wooden materials also complement most home designs and look great with colourful climbing plants around them.

1. Metal: Steel (generally powder-coated) is used to complement modern homes or to achieve domes, pyramid and curved shapes.  Metal kits are generally easy to install as they come cut to length and with specific connectors for the joints

Styles

Lean-to or attached Patios and Pergolas: A lean-to style appears as an extension of a home when it is attached to one side of the house for support. It can be used to build:

• a carport
• an outside porch
• utility area
• entertaining area
• garden seating area

Stand alone styles: These are ideal for adding aesthetic touches to any part of your property and are often used as a gazebo in a garden, a shed by the swimming pool, and with a swing in it, it can also complement a playground.

Stand alone patios and pergolas allow you a bit more design freedom:

• Circular with round arches
• Asian or oriental such as a pagoda
• Garden type with a bench or swing

Patio and Pergola kits typically contain:

• Necessary framing
• Screws and connectors
• Roof sheeting
• Flashings and gutters
• Simple instructions

All structures require basic carpentry skills to assemble, basic knowledge of building codes and the correct tools. If you are not comfortable with your DIY skills or do not have the necessary tools, you could still buy a kit and have a licensed contractor construct it for you

A patio readily adds style and aesthetic value to your home. It is highly functional and is great for entertaining and dining al fresco, working out, relaxing with family and friends, letting children play outdoors or providing continuity between your house and garden. While you may be able to plan and design your own dream patio, qualified and experienced patio designer/builders ensure that your plans are executed perfectly.

What a specialist patio builder can do for you:

• Assess the area for suitability, and design an area to suit your house and lifestyle
• Choose appropriate materials for the framing, floor and roof to suit the design and your tastes
• Prepare plans and submit a building application to ensure that all of your work is council approved
• Supply materials and construct the structure/s and surrounding associated works in accordance with  the plans approved by you
• Supply and install associated features like lighting, heating, blinds and screens

Advantages of Hiring a specialist Patio Builder:

Aside from taking care of designing your patio and supplying and installing the works, hiring a specialist patio builder can be a cost effective decision if you consider the following:

• Experienced designers/builders have a wide range of creative designs that you can choose from to suit your individual interest, style and purpose.
• They know the pros and cons of all types of materials and can readily advise you on the appropriate type for your needs.
• They are familiar with the prices of materials  and can choose these to suit your budget
• They know the problems and pitfalls that can occur and are able to avoid or deal with them
• They have the tools and experience to build a beautiful patio in considerably less time that it would take you to build your own.

Choosing a specialist patio designer/builder

If you decide to hire a professional builder for your patio, choose only one who:

• is fully trained
• holds required licenses
• is adequately insured
• can provide work references that you can verify
• can give you a complete quotation of the costs of materials, installation, labour and other expenses before commencing work
• can obtain the necessary council permissions and submit required plans to comply with regulations and

A patio is a worthwhile investment for your home only if it is designed and constructed properly. Before thinking about building one on your own, consider how much time you can spare for procuring materials and installing them because without experience, progress will be very slow. Patio designer/builders ensure that work is professionally done, saves time and minimizes errors in construction which ultimately results in cost savings for you.

A patio readily adds style and aesthetic value to your home. It is highly functional and is great for entertaining and dining al fresco, working out, relaxing with family and friends, letting children play outdoors or providing continuity between your house and garden. While you may be able to plan and design your own dream patio, qualified and experienced patio designer/builders ensure that your plans are executed perfectly.

What a specialist patio builder can do for you:

• Assess the area for suitability, and design an area to suit your house and lifestyle
• Choose appropriate materials for the framing, floor and roof to suit the design and your tastes
• Prepare plans and submit a building application to ensure that all of your work is council approved
• Supply materials and construct the structure/s and surrounding associated works in accordance with  the plans approved by you
• Supply and install associated features like lighting, heating, blinds and screens

Advantages of Hiring a specialist Patio Builder:

Aside from taking care of designing your patio and supplying and installing the works, hiring a specialist patio builder can be a cost effective decision if you consider the following:

• Experienced designers/builders have a wide range of creative designs that you can choose from to suit your individual interest, style and purpose.
• They know the pros and cons of all types of materials and can readily advise you on the appropriate type for your needs.
• They are familiar with the prices of materials  and can choose these to suit your budget
• They know the problems and pitfalls that can occur and are able to avoid or deal with them
• They have the tools and experience to build a beautiful patio in considerably less time that it would take you to build your own.

Choosing a specialist patio designer/builder

If you decide to hire a professional builder for your patio, choose only one who:

• is fully trained
• holds required licenses
• is adequately insured
• can provide work references that you can verify
• can give you a complete quotation of the costs of materials, installation, labour and other expenses before commencing work
• can obtain the necessary council permissions and submit required plans to comply with regulations and

A patio is a worthwhile investment for your home only if it is designed and constructed properly. Before thinking about building one on your own, consider how much time you can spare for procuring materials and installing them because without experience, progress will be very slow. Patio designer/builders ensure that work is professionally done, saves time and minimizes errors in construction which ultimately results in cost savings for you.

A patio roof or pergola is an attractive roofing option to cover decks and other outdoor areas. With the appropriate design and construction, it can also add function, aesthetic appeal and value to your home. Several factors come into play such as materials, location, style and privacy so that it’s best to leave it to a specialist who knows how to design and build such structures to give you the best result.

A patio roof is a structure with a covering whereas a pergola is an open beam structure with no roof covering. The latter has limited uses but can still be a stunning option for areas not intended to be used for entertaining or to achieve that Mediterranean feel, perhaps with climbers/vines planted at the base. If chosen right, these will eventually cover the whole frame

Types of structures

A patio or pergola can be freestanding which has the advantage of being located anywhere you want— over your pool or spa, in the middle of the garden or right next to the kids play ground, and it could take the form of a gazebo or a hut. On the other hand, one that is attached to your home is an excellent solution for extending your home area to the outdoors and provides the perfect venue for entertaining guests, dining al fresco or just relaxing with your family.

Materials

Framing materials for your patio or pergola can be made of:

• Timber, which is preferred by many because it is durable, classy, and versatile. However, it must be specially treated against termite and weather attack. The appropriate standard in Australia is H3 ( timber for external use) and you should always look for this stamp on each piece of timber used. H3 timber generally lasts at least as long as 25 years and some up to 40 years

• Steel, which makes a good looking, modern support structure and can easily be fabricated into various shapes to blend with the look of your home and garden.

Roofing materials

A cover adds function and protection using various materials such as:

• Steel sheeting which works well to keep the sun out and comes in a wide range of pre-finished colorbond colours to match the colour of your home’s existing roof.

• Shadecloth, which comes in attractive colours and designs and are specially treated to provide UV protection.

• Polycarbonate sheeting which filters and allows natural light in while keeping you protected against harsh UV rays and other weather elements.

• Thatch, which lends an island feel and if carefully installed, can also provide ample protection against the elements.

• Climbing plants give a natural and romantic feel and allow natural light to enter as well.
• Concrete or terracotta tiles in a wide range of colours and profiles to match your existing roof

Basic construction steps

The following steps describe briefly how to build a patio roof or pergola:

• Design your structure. Factors like the main purpose and overall look of your home must be considered in its design which a professional designer can help you with.
• Site selection. Whether free standing or attached to your home, choosing the appropriate location before construction is important to give you an idea about the materials and groundwork preparation you will need.
• Permissions and approvals. Check your local building code for the necessary permissions and regulations that you must comply with.
• Procurement of supplies and components.
• Construction and installation. This is when you may need professional help to install posts and roofing materials, as well as screens, blinds, windows or doors for added privacy.

Other factors such as space and privacy must also be considered when choosing the location and type of patio/pergola to install. While you can easily purchase kits that you can install on your own, a qualified and licensed professional will know how to design and build a patio roof or pergola that will look stunning and that can last a long time.

Patio & Deck System by Solatec Outdoor Living

All Australian Products brought together into one innovative system for the 21st century

Plus our unique & simple “Solar Pergola” Timber Blades – Sun control with NO running costs

Use horizontally for shade control or vertically for venting your outdoor roof space.

Custom designed & styled to suit your home – ask for an appointment with one of our consultants.

For more information on this, or any of our stunning
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Building Decks – Your Deck Build Guide

A timber deck is a great way of expanding the living and entertaining area of your home, and a great investment in improving your home’s value.  While your deck build can be done by a handyman or DIY-gifted home owner, if you want to be sure of a good result, then you should engage a licensed contractor.

It is always a good idea to spend time planning the deck’s design before purchase – discuss it with the people who will use it: partners, kids etc. Find out what they would like to see included – shade, plants, railing and stair designs, landscaping etc.  You will get maximum use out of your timber deck, and a smoother installation, if these things are agreed upon before construction.

Some Reasons For Wanting A Deck

Each family or home situation is different, but creating extra outdoor living space is always welcome. Your timber deck can:

• Make shady or damp areas usable

• Create a level children’s play area – think paddle pool or sandpit

• Cover sloping or uneven ground

• Be constructed around the trunks of feature trees

• Surround a pool or spa area

Deck Build Check List

Before you enlist the help of a professional, or attempt the project yourself, use the following check list to get your project started properly:

• Research: Look at other decks in your area and in magazines to see what designs appeal and will suit your home.

• Council regulations: Contact your local government instrumentality to find out what is needed as far as building/development permits, plans submission etc.

• Weather and seasons: Understand where prevailing winds and rain come from and consider how best to manage these, along with summer shade and winter warmth.

• Preparation: Look around your potential timber deck area and note any problem areas e.g. trees that you may need permission to remove, pathways to be dug up, plumbing, drainage etc

• Discuss: Talk with your family about what the deck will be used for – in all seasons. Make sure the area will be large enough to accommodate outdoor table and chairs, barbecue etc

• Plans: Have your architect, designer or builder draw up plans to show features like railings, stairs, lighting, power points, gas outlets etc

• Landscape: Be sure to include landscaping and the purchase of pot plants in your budget

Types of Timber Decks

Decks can be constructed of hardwood or treated softwood.

Softwood treated to Australian standard H3 is the modern preferred option for the framing, as it is a kiln dried engineered product with guaranteed structural and durability properties, that avoids a lot of the problems found with traditional unseasoned hardwood.

Decking (flooring) can be chosen from a wide range of local and imported timbers, and also from an increasing range of environmentally friendly products manufactured from combinations of recycled timber and plastics

Safety Standards

Decks are classified as Residential Timber Framed Constructions, and Australian Standard 1684 applies. If you are going to Do It Yourself, then you should get a copy of the code. Reputable licensed contractors will already be aware of it.

Any areas that children are present should be considered as safety risk areas. Look very carefully at the height and climb-ability of handrails and access to the deck and then into the yard, from other rooms of the house.

A timber deck does not take long to build and the result will give years of extended outdoor living to your home, and add to its value.

The roof over your home is your family’s first line of protection against the weather . When building your home or an extension to an existing home, choosing the correct  roofing material is crucial to providing  complete protection against these elements, and providing you with peace of mind.

A good roofing material should have the following qualities:

• durability
• low maintenance
• good thermal mass
• attractive design

INSULATED COLORBOND ROOFING PANELS TICKS ALL OF THESE BOXES

Durability

Insulated  colorbond  roofing  panels consist of a coolite core sandwiched between top (roof) and bottom  (ceiling) steel sheets. These sheets are made from steel steel produced as a result of the best steel making technology, and  coated with a zinc/aluminum alloy for superior protection against corrosion. Colour layers are than factory applied for a long lasting, good looking finish.

Low maintenance

During production, after having a coating of polyester primer on its surface, the roofing material is topped with an exterior grade paint coat and baked to ensure superior resistance to chipping, peeling and cracking. This keeps your roof  looking newer for longer.

Thermal mass

Thermal mass refers to the ability of your  roof  to resist the transfer of heat/cold  from the outside to the inside. For example, a roof sheet that is too hot to touch on the upper surface during a summer day will at the same time be cool to the touch on the lower surface

The thermal mass of your roof can also influence the insulation  requirements elsewhere in your house. Ie: you’ll need less insulation elsewhere if your roof has a high thermal mass.

Design, colour and style

Colorbond steel comes in a wide range of colours  to set the tone and complement  the style of your home. Colour can also be used to match the appearance of gutters, downpipes and other building materials used.

Choosing the right colour is also important because it can affect the solar absorption rate of your roof. Light colours eg white, reflect more heat in the first instance and reduce the load on the insulating core.

Roof profiles and current Technology

Insulated  roofing panels are suited to flat (one plane, low slope) and gable shaped roofs.

They are increasingly the first choice for deck and outdoor living areas, and particularly for the flyover type design that has applications to a wide variety of housing styles

The technology behind the current panels has been constantly improved over the last twenty years; and this research and development guarantees you a high quality product every time a sheet rolls off the production line.

Once produced, each  individual house order is wrapped with interleaved protective layers and delivered direct to site for immediate use. This factory to your house process ensures that the sheets arrive exactly as they left the factory

Finished with flashings of your choice of colour, the result is a stunning addition to your house, and a commitment to lowering required energy inputs

For best results and to deliver the look you want, use a professional tradesperson  to install your insulated colorbond roofing material. The results will amaze you

A home improvement project is a major investment that you should leave to a professional builder specialising in building a timber deck.

Finding the right timber deck builder requires careful scrutiny of a contractor’s background. You’ll need to check on the following:

Samples of work: An established contractor will be able to show you examples of his work, including any ongoing project. His portfolio will give you an idea of the kind of work he is capable of doing.

Experience: A contractor’s training and length of experience will help you determine if he can complete your home project successfully.

Client references: A contractor’s past can help predict the future of your project. You’ll want to know how he completed his past projects and whether he was easy to work with. A professional will readily provide references including their contact details which you can use to verify work examples given, as well as check for construction problems that they may have encountered.

Proper insurance: Always ask a contractor to show proof of insurance and the kind of coverage. You’ll want to know if he has Contractors All Risks, Public Liability and Workers Compensation coverage which will keep you free from liability for any property damage and worker injury that may occur on your property.

Important issues:

Before starting any construction project, you’ll need to be clear about some important matters:

Permissions and Building approvals:

Home improvement projects generally require prior permission of the local council. Ensure that your builder will obtain all of these for you, and ask to see the final approval in writing

Written quotation:

Before hiring a contractor, always ask for a written quotation which spells out the following:

Construction details: such as grade, size, quantity and type of materials, parts and accessories needed for the work.

Payment schedule: This should specify the amount of deposit, progress claims and the due date of the balance after completion.

Project drawings: You’ll need to see the 2-dimensional drawings of the proposed renovations before proceeding with the work to ensure that your contractor’s plans match the design that you approved for the signing of the contract. This will also be the basis of the contractor’s scope of work.

Other details that you should discuss with your contractor are parking and deliveries, services and utility repairs (if damaged), cleanup of rubbish and excess materials, and methods and regularity of communication.

You’ll want to start your search for a contractor by asking friends and relatives for referrals and set up a site inspection to meet them face to face. You can also get some names of contractors from local licensing authorities and trade associations such as the Housing Industry Association, or display centres such as The Home Ideas Centre in Brisbane.

Timber Deck Builder selection should be a careful process if you want to achieve your dream without hassles and have a stunning but practical addition to your home and lifestyle.

What a specialist patio builder can do for you:

• Assess the area for suitability, and design an area to suit your house and lifestyle
• Choose appropriate materials for the framing, floor and roof to suit the design and your tastes
• Prepare plans and submit a building application to ensure that all of your work is council approved
• Supply materials and construct the structure/s and surrounding associated works in accordance with the plans approved by you
• Supply and install associated features like lighting, heating, blinds and screens

Advantages of Hiring a specialist Patio Builder:

Aside from taking care of designing your patio and supplying and installing the works, hiring a specialist patio builder can be a cost effective decision if you consider the following:

• Experienced designers/builders have a wide range of creative designs that you can choose from to suit your individual interest, style and purpose.
• They know the pros and cons of all types of materials and can readily advise you on the appropriate type for your needs.
• They are familiar with the prices of materials and can choose these to suit your budget
• They know the problems and pitfalls that can occur and are able to avoid or deal with them
• They have the tools and experience to build a beautiful patio in considerably less time that it would take you to build your own.

Choosing a specialist patio designer/builder

If you decide to hire a professional builder for your patio, choose only one who:

• is fully trained
• holds required licenses
• is adequately insured
• can provide work references that you can verify
• can give you a complete quotation of the costs of materials, installation, labour and other expenses before commencing work
• can obtain the necessary council permissions and submit required plans to comply with regulations and

A patio is a worthwhile investment for your home only if it is designed and constructed properly. Before thinking about building one on your own, consider how much time you can spare for procuring materials and installing them because without experience, progress will be very slow. Patio designer/builders ensure that work is professionally done, saves time and minimizes errors in construction which ultimately results in cost savings for you.