Building Insurance: What Is It & Do I Need It For My Property?

Guest Post by Hubert Dwight


Are you in the process of purchasing your dream home?

Maybe you’ve just stepped into the enchanting world of homeownership in your warm, cosy abode.

Now, you’re pondering on that next important unanswered question of building insurance.

Perhaps you wonder if protecting your investment is necessary or if adequate coverage already shields your current residence.

No matter where you stand on the homeownership journey, the importance of building insurance cannot be overstated.

From new acquisition to long time loved dwelling, a building insurance policy is the essential safeguard for both, and we’re about to explain why. So, read on to find out more. 

What Is Building Insurance? 

Building insurance acts as a financial safety net for your property, protecting you from a vast number of potential risks and unforeseen events.

From natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes to disasters like fires, theft, vandalism, and an endless array of mishaps, building insurance is designed to protect your property from a plethora of threats.

In essence, building insurance is like a sturdy safety net that’s meticulously woven to protect your home from those darned curveballs that life often throws our way.

Whether it’s a sudden burst pipe that’s flooded your basement, a tree branch that’s crashed through your roof during a storm or other property landscaping mishaps, or a breaking and entering that’s left your premises ransacked, building insurance is there to help shoulder the costs and repair the damage. 

Why Building Insurance Matters

Imagine forking over all your savings to repair extensive damage to your property leaving you out of pocket and emotionally exhausted.

There really isn’t anything worse, particularly when we’re all right smack in the middle of a major cost of living crisis. We cringe at the thought.

This is why building insurance is not a luxury, but rather, a quintessential essential for any homeowner looking to safeguard their investment and ensure their assets are adequately protected against life’s little uncertainties.

While no amount of money can replace those irreplaceable, sentimental items (we’re looking at you, nan’s stamp collection), building insurance provides owners with a scaffolding to rely on.

With the financial resources to repair or rebuild your home after an unforeseen disaster or unhappy event, building insurance leaves you free to move on and rebuild your life and memories that money can’t buy.

New Homeowners VS Existing Properties 

For first-time homeowners, ready to step eagerly into the world of property ownership, building insurance is the peace of mind that allows you to move into your dream home.

It keeps your humble abode safe and sound.

That way, you can enjoy the fresh paint and crisp new carpets with the knowledge that you’re covered.

Building insurance remains just as crucial well into your homeowner years.

Whether you’ve only just signed on the dotted line of your first mortgage to own your place, recently renovated and flipped, or just love where you live – having the right insurance policy in place is imperative.

You never know what will happen, it’s a practical necessity to ensure your investment is protected and your property maintains its value.

How Can I Choose The Right Building Insurance Policy? 

Selecting the right building insurance policy means first understanding the specific risks your property faces.

The right coverage level for your property will depend on your location, your home’s age and condition, and the weather patterns your home is subject to.

By evaluating your risks carefully, you can ensure your insurance coverage protects your home against major threats.

But we get it. Even with an array of building insurance policy options and providers on the market, selecting a policy is a pretty daunting task.

You may even suffer from analysis paralysis, and we can totally relate.

By comparing quotes, reading the fine print and understanding coverage limits and exclusions, you can make an informed decision based on your needs and your budget. 

Don’t stress, take your time, shop around and ask questions if you need to.

Most policy providers will be more than happy to assist you in finding the right coverage for your needs.

Your building insurance is a significant investment in your home’s future, and it’s essential to take the time to choose wisely.

Peace of Mind for Every Homeowner

Building insurance is something no homeowner can afford to be without.

Whether you’re about to purchase your first home or have been a property owner for years, it is the safety net that protects your investment.

It ensuring that accidents, natural erosion, or unforeseen circumstances won’t ruin your home and your finances along with it.

Just as you’ve invested in health insurance and car insurance to protect yourself and your gorgeous set of wheels, why not ensure your property receives the same level of care and protection? 

So, don’t wait until it’s too late — invest in building insurance today, and have that added peace of mind knowing your property is amply protected, come what may.

Pools Vs. Hot Tubs:

 How To Know Which Option’s Right For You

Guest post by Hubert Dwight

Spending time in your backyard is an excellent way to make the best of your limited leisure time.

Whether you’re looking to cook up a storm on the BBQ, play a good round of backyard cricket with the kids, potter around in the garden or undertake a DIY project, nothing beats some leisure time out in your own backyard.

After all, you work hard, week in and week out, so it makes sense that you’d want to make the most of the weekend or days off.

If the weather’s great for it, why wouldn’t you want to spend time outdoors at home?

An excellent way to relax is by either swimming in a backyard pool or soaking in a hot tub.

But what if you are having trouble deciding which is the best option for you?

Fear not, because this helpful article will fill you in on the pros and cons of each option so you can make an informed decision.

Continue reading to learn more.

Pool Installation is a Big Job

Putting in a pool is more than just digging a hole and filling it with water.

You need to excavate with expert care and attention to reduce the risks of disrupting subterranean pipes on your property.

Pool safety should also be of paramount concern for families, which is why you will need to install a pool fence around the pool once it’s been constructed.

As for actually installing the pool itself – it’s a pretty mammoth undertaking.

To start with, there is significant earthmoving work required to prepare your backyard for a pool.

This means getting an excavator in to remove the dirt.

This alone can become expensive, depending on the scope of work required, not to mention the next steps.

Even before this step, someone will need to survey the yard to ensure a smooth installation.

Once the hole is dug, precise measurement is required to ensure a good fit.

Further excavation of pump trenches is then required.

Then, a crane will need to place the pool, or major concreting works are required to install a concrete pool.

All of this can cost between $45-75,000, depending on a few factors.

This is no small amount, so a pool is definitely the most expensive option between the two.

Fun for the Kids

So a major con to installing a pool is literally just the process of installation on its own.

But why invest in a pool for your home?

Well a significant benefit of the pool, compared to a hot tub, is that the kids will love it.

A pool in your backyard is sure to make a huge impact on your kids’ childhood years, with your outdoor pool becoming the beloved setting of so many summer days and family pool parties.

And if you’re raising swimmers, then you can do no wrong by getting a pool.

They can swim at any time, providing you’re supervising, and will grow to love the water.

They can play all sorts of games in the pool, including polo, diving, water volleyball and more.

Your kids will absolutely love the pool, and if you’d rather stay home during a hot day, then this is the perfect option for your home.

Ongoing Maintenance and Cleaning

It goes without saying that pools require ongoing maintenance, cleaning and chemical treatment to keep them clean.

If you can afford it, you can outsource this job to a professional company, but otherwise, this task falls to the homeowner.

So you better be prepared for all the intricacies of pool maintenance and cleaning if you’re looking to invest in one for your own backyard.

Thankfully, you can buy lots of equipment to help you with this, including automated cleaning tools.

Even with these tools at your disposal, you can expect your pool maintenance tasks to add to your general household task list.

These care and maintenance requirements should be a major consideration when deciding whether or not a pool is the right choice for your family’s garden space.

Hot Tub Installation 

Now what should you consider before getting a hot tub for your backyard?

Well much like a pool, you can expect the installation of your hot tub to be a pretty complex affair, depending on whether you’re looking to invest in an in-ground hot tub or an above-ground tub.

Thankfully, there is a bit more of a cost range for hot tubs than there are for pools, providing you with more options.

For instance, if you’re operating on a lower budget, you can get an inflatable hot tub for under $1,000 by buying one online.

The better models cost between $5,000 to $10,000, though, and it’s worth getting a decent one because inflatable ones can be prone to leaks or punctures, which are a pain to rectify.

Delivery and installation are much more straightforward than a pool, as a company can deliver it and set it up within a day and for much less initial cost.

Hot Tub Benefits

Hot tubs tend to be preferred by adults, as it’s fantastic to soak in one at the end of a long, hard day.

With some tunes, a refreshing beverage and some ambient lighting, it will create the perfect relaxing atmosphere for your backyard.

The kids might like it, but not as much as a pool.

A hot tub also has a much smaller size footprint than a pool, and will only take up a corner of your yard.

If you have decking, it can fit on the decking quite easily if you add some composite decking to your outdoor area.

You also don’t have to deal with the massive excavation required, not to mention the enormous cost of installing a pool.

Maintenance and cleaning are also much less arduous and less expensive as well.

You can use it for hydrotherapy and exercise as well, as it has enough room for simple stretches and strength exercises.

When it comes to pleasure and relaxation, you can’t beat it.

There’s something so sublime about relaxing in a bubbling, hot tub of water, letting your aches, pains and stress melt away while you chill out.

Boost Home Value

Both a pool and a hot tub can increase your home’s sale value, should you choose to move out and sell up down the line.

A pool, due to being more expensive, will increase the home’s value more.

However, not all buyers want a pool, so this could impact your pool of buyers, pardon the pun, which is worth considering.

A Soaking Summary

This article has covered pools vs hot tubs and the key benefits and drawbacks of each.

Have you decided which is suitable for your backyard?

Conventional Raft Slab

A ‘Conventional’ Raft Slab is a concrete base laid directly on a compacted base.

It is strengthened by cutting trenches in the base and adding reinforcement.

These ‘thickened beams’ are formed at the edges and also under loadbearing walls.

This photo shows the base covered in poly , reinforcement placed and edge forms in position ready for placing of concrete.

Advantages

  • Higher thermal mass, as it incorporates the thermal mass of ground  so better suited to passive solar design.
  • Less susceptible to bad workmanship by concretors
  • More resistant to point loads, such as jacking a car.
  • A thicker overall slab makes it easier if you want Floor Drains (To allow for the dropped floor in those rooms)

Disadvantages

  • Generally uses more concrete, than ‘Waffle Pod Slabs‘, with more waste as volume is less predictable
  • Rain can cause construction delays as the trenches for the beams can fill with water
  • More complicated excavation can lead to additional cost

 

Also see Ground Conditions

 

Seaside Sophistication: A Guide to Hamptons-Style Furniture

Guest Post by Hubert Dwight

Home decorating ideas may come and go but the Hamptons look has been one of the most popular, enduring and sought-after home décor aesthetics for over 300 hundred years.

Originating in the US when the first settlers arrived around Long Island, the style was initially born of practical necessity.

Features like wainscoting and panelling came from English origins and were incorporated into a home to conceal rising dampness.

In the 19th century, the style was adopted by architects and features included in the luxury summer homes of New York’s elite.

With its fresh, clean lines and coastal vibe, it is easy to understand the timeless appeal of Hamptons furniture, architecture and décor.

Often confused with Shabby Chic and French Provincial, Hamptons style is cleaner, crisper and more sophisticated than the former and lighter and more modern than the latter.

Whilst each of these three interior design styles can be used interchangeably, Hamptons aesthetic predominantly dictates that that the overall ambience is evocative of summers at the beach.

Hamptons interiors are centred around natural textures and surfaces, focusing on the beauty of materials such as timber, cane, linen and cotton.

I recently revisited the movie “Somethings Gotta Give” with Dianne Keaton and Jack Nicholson.

The movie is known for its star-studded cast but, for me at least, the biggest star is the house and movie set.

The stunning Shingle Style home, where most of the action occurs, typifies the best of Hamptons timeless, seaside elegance.

Featuring crisp whites, accented by muted greys and blues, the house is surrounded by French doors opening to the ocean.

High ceilings and large rooms, accentuate the breezy, seaside feel.

Think large, linen cushions, fresh flowers and pristine white furniture. The whole Hamptons ambience is deceptively sophisticated whilst, at the same time, being welcoming and homely.

Colour Palette

A typical Hamptons-style home will feature muted blue or grey walls, contrasted with crisp white door and window frames.

The ultimate aim is to create a feeling of a breezy, summer day by the ocean.

Unlike the French provincial style, Hamptons furniture is typically sturdy and solid – painted in a vivid white or natural timber with an occasional ebony piece for contrast.

In living areas, sofas reflect the same natural hues – large and comfy, they are often matched with accent chairs in complementary tones.

Coffee tables are broad and low, forming the central focus of the living zone. Fabrics are crisp linens in muted cool tones accented with stripes of blue and white to exude a nautical feel.

Flooring is typically in light, neutral tones with large mats delineating living zones.

Natural timber is the optimal choice for flooring, exuding as it does, a ‘sand and surf’ ambience.

Walls dotted with seascapes and large timber bookcases overflowing with books are both staple features of Hamptons beauty.

Introducing Hamptons Style Into Your Home

There are a number of specific design details that typify the coastal aesthetic including French doors, plantation shutters, panelling and wainscoting, and shaker-style kitchens.

Introducing some or all of these design elements will go a long way to creating the Hampton feel in your home.

Tables, desks and hall consoles featuring side cross-detail designs, a typical inclusion in Hamptons furniture.

French doors on cupboards, entertainment units and cabinets are another detail that typifies Hamptons style.

Consider creating a wainscoting or panelled effect along hallways and entrances with timber or, alternatively, try panelled wallpaper which can create a similar effect without the time or cost.

If you are looking to include Hamptons-style design elements in your home, it can be easier than you think.

The internet is full of stunning home design ideas, which are affordable and can be easily incorporated to give your home the timeless beauty and elegance of coastal living.

Building a Long-Distance Home

Most people wanting to build a new home like to build it close by, but that doesn’t work for everyone.

Why build at a long distance?
Typical reasons for building long distance, including:

  • Building a ‘Holiday’ home.
  • Building a retirement home.
  • An investment property

There are lots of posts on this site about the process of building a house . . . but what factors should you take into consideration for a long distance house?

Building a good relationship with a real estate agent.

A local agent with a good appreciation of the local market is invaluable.

They can be the best person to direct you to the the better blocks for sale.

 Architect or Project Home Builder

If it is a basic flat block it might be worth looking at what the local project home builders are offering

If its a scenic block, which are often on steep slopes to get a good view an architect might be needed to get the best results

Making sure about the builder

Project builder or architect designed home? . . . . you are going to need a builder.

This is perhaps one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make when building your home.

After all, your putting your trust with this person for the whole build, so it’s essential to choose someone reliable who you can communicate with clearly.

Building at a distance you aren’t going to be able to visit the site as often as you would if it was just round the corner!

Make extra sure to check the credentials and references, and look into their past work to determine their level of quality.

Picking Your Own Building Inspector

It’s a good idea to have regular inspections during a build to make sure problems aren’t covered over.

If you don’thave the time to visit every 2-3 weeks a good builing inspector can be a good choice in ensuring a quality build.

Controlling Travel Costs

It is likely you are going to take many trips during the whole procees so its worth giving consideration to keep travel costs low.

Usually domestic air fares are cheaper on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and Sundays mornings are often the cheaper than othertimes.

 

 

7 Reasons to Install Flyscreen Doors at Your Home

Guest Post by Hubert Dwight

For generations, flyscreen doors have been an essential part of numerous homes in Australia.

Their simple mechanism effectively prevents those pesky intruders that can cause some serious iritation if they enter your home.

However, a significant number of people are still unsure whether they should invest in such doors or not.

If you haven’t used such doors previously, here are some of the major reasons why you should get one immediately.

Keeps Insects Away:

The primary purpose of these flyscreen doors is to keep out insects.

In certain parts of Melbourne, insect infestation is a massive problem.

Installing flyscreen doors in Melbourne homes can stop those pesky insects from entering the houses and causing health problems.

These screen doors also help you take care of the insect problem without using any harmful pesticides.

Adds an Extra Layer of Security:

When you invest in good-quality flyscreen doors, they help you deter more than just the insects.

They offer an additional layer of protection against intruders, and more.

If you choose flyscreen doors made with stainless steel, they are also resistant to damage from pets scratching

Keeps the Children Safe:

Apart from preventing insects and other intruders from entering your home, flyscreen doors also help you keep your toddlers safe inside your home.

While solid doors give children the feeling of being “locked in the fortress,” the flyscreen doors offer a clearer view of the outside world, even through the mesh.

As such, these doors prevent children from venturing outside without help from an adult.

Ensures Privacy:

If you want to improve the privacy of your home while enjoying the view of the outside world, these flyscreen doors are a great option to consider.

These mesh doors allow people inside the home to look outside without any issues, but people outside the home cannot see what is inside unless they are close enough to the door.

So, it is difficult for someone to spy on your house from a distance when you have installed such doors at your place.

Allows Proper Air Circulation:

Installing flyscreen doors can help you save energy by keeping your home cool. The perforated design of these doors allows air to circulate properly.

As a result, your house feels cooler without using air conditioning for several months.

The screens also block some portion of the direct sunlight, which can often increase the temperature inside the house.

This way, you can save a significant amount of money on your energy bill.

Adds More Style:

You will find flyscreen doors in numerous designs that can add more style to your home’s entrance.

From colonial-casting screen doors to diamond grille screen doors – you have plenty of options to choose from.

Some flyscreen door manufacturers can also customise the design as per your personal preferences. Also, you have the option to choose the materials – from aluminium to wood.

So, choose the one that matches the style and decor of your home. It is even better if you are installing the flyscreen door as a part of home renovation.

Brightens Your Home with Natural Light:

Flyscreens are known for allowing significantly larger amounts of natural light into a room, thanks to their perforated design.

While natural light can improve your mood, the UV rays from the sunlight also help prevent germs buildup and mould.

Moreover, the natural brightness of the room makes the space look larger.

Additionally, it reduces your dependency on electric lights during the day, helping you save some energy along the way.

Conclusion

Flyscreen doors have evolved significantly over the years.

While their primary purpose is still to prevent insects from entering your home, the designs and functionalities of these doors have changed noticeably to meet the requirements of modern households.

Local manufacturers can also create customised solutions that blend seamlessly with the ongoing decor and style of your home.

Back to Real Grass?

The first artificial turf pitch was laid in Rhode Island in 1964, and started to gain attention when the Houston Astro Dome opened in 1966 with

It took another 20 years before an Australian artificial turf sports field was completed

It only seemed to me to get start getting popular in Australia in the 2010’s when artificial grass started to hit the domestic market.

Well with around 10 years experiance I have seen a lot of artificial lawns and I am not a fan.

What I Don’t Like

No Saving On Installation

If you want a high standard finish their is a lot more than just rolling the cheapest product.

If you want a nice flat lawn you need to spend some time on getting a flat stable base.

The base may need to be provided by a softer layer if it is going to be anything but oriental.

Expect to pay between $60 and $100/sq m for a reasonable product and quality installation.

Not No Maintenace

This photograph shows what can go wrong if you ignore maintenance

You may not have to mow it, but you do have to vacuum it.

Otherwise leaves just sit on top.

You still have to weedkill as windblown seed can still form roots and grow.

Heath Issues

Unfortunately, artificial grass can trap blood, skin, and animal waste and become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, like staphylococcus.

If you have pets, you will need water to remove dog urine to keep things more sanitary.

Artificial grass can also be a major source of micro plastics which are considered a major environmental problem.

Not People Friendly

Two common complaints are;

  • The surface gets to hot in summer.
  • Likely to cause friction burns.

Organised Excellence: The Power of Workshop Tool Cabinets

Guest Post by Elisaveta Doncheva

In the world of craftsmanship and DIY endeavours, having the right tool for the job is paramount.

From wrenches and screwdrivers to power tools and specialty implements, a comprehensive toolkit forms the foundation of productivity and efficiency in any workshop.

However, the challenge lies not only in acquiring the necessary tools but also in organising and storing them effectively.

Enter workshop tool cabinets – the ultimate solution for tidiness, accessibility, and efficiency.

Having said that, let’s delve into the importance of having the right tools at your disposal, the advantages of investing in a tool cabinet, and the transformative benefits of organised workspace management.

The Importance of Having the Right Tool

Efficiency and Precision

Having the right tool for the job ensures efficiency and precision in task execution.

Whether it’s tightening a bolt, cutting a piece of wood, or assembling intricate components, using the appropriate tool streamlines the process and minimises the risk of errors or damage.

By eliminating the need for makeshift solutions or improvisation, the right tool empowers craftsmen to achieve optimal results with minimal effort.

Safety and Reliability

Using the correct tool enhances safety and reliability in workshop operations.

Quality tools, designed for specific tasks and engineered to withstand rigorous use, provide a level of assurance and confidence that is indispensable in high-stakes projects and demanding environments.

Productivity and Time Savings

The right tool accelerates productivity and saves valuable time in workshop endeavours.

With the ability to perform tasks efficiently and effectively, craftsmen can complete projects faster, tackle more complex tasks, and take on additional workloads.

Time saved through optimised tool usage translates into increased output, profitability, and customer satisfaction.

Why Investing in a Tool Cabinet Makes Sense

Organisation and Accessibility

Workshop tool storage cabinets offer unparalleled organisation and accessibility for a wide range of tools and equipment.

With dedicated compartments, drawers, and shelves, these cabinets provide a designated space for each tool, ensuring easy identification and retrieval when needed.

By eliminating clutter and chaos, tool cabinets streamline workflow and promote a tidy and efficient workspace.

Space Optimisation

Tool cabinets optimise space in the workshop, maximising floor space and minimising clutter.

By consolidating tools into a single storage unit, cabinets free up valuable floor area for additional workstations, equipment, or storage solutions.

Compact and versatile, tool cabinets are ideal for workshops of all sizes, from small home garages to large industrial facilities.

Protection and Security

Workshop tool cabinets offer protection and security for valuable tools and equipment.

With lockable doors and reinforced construction, these cabinets safeguard tools from theft, damage, and environmental hazards.

By providing a secure storage solution, tool cabinets instil peace of mind and confidence in craftsmen, allowing them to focus on their work without worrying about the safety of their tools.

Preservation of Tool Quality

Proper storage and organisation in tool cabinets help preserve the quality and condition of tools over time.

By protecting tools from dust, moisture, and physical damage, cabinets extend the lifespan of tools and ensure consistent performance in the long run.

The Benefits of Workshop Tool Cabinets

Efficient Workflow

Workshop tool cabinets facilitate efficient workflow by providing quick and easy access to tools and equipment.

With tools organised and readily available, craftsmen can transition seamlessly between tasks, minimising downtime and increasing productivity.

The intuitive layout of tool cabinets ensures that every tool has its place, reducing the time spent searching for misplaced items.

Improved Safety Standards

Organized tool storage cabinets promote safer working conditions in the workshop.

By eliminating clutter and trip hazards, cabinets reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Lockable cabinets add an extra layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to potentially dangerous tools or equipment.

By prioritizing safety, tool cabinets create a conducive environment for focused and uninterrupted work.

Enhanced Professionalism

Well-maintained and organized tool cabinets contribute to a professional and polished image in the workshop.

The sight of neatly stacked tools reflects a dedication to quality, accuracy, and attention to detail, which reassures clients and customers.

Whether in a commercial setting or a home workshop, the appearance of organized tool cabinets conveys professionalism and competence to observers.

Streamlined Inventory Management

Tool cabinets facilitate streamlined inventory management by providing a centralized location for tool storage and tracking.

With tools arranged systematically in drawers or compartments, craftsmen can easily assess inventory levels, identify missing or damaged items, and replenish supplies as needed.

Effective inventory management ensures that tools are always available when required, reducing delays and disruptions in workflow.

Considerations When Choosing Workshop Tool Cabinets

Size and Capacity

Select a tool cabinet with adequate size and capacity to accommodate your current tool collection and allow for future expansion.

Consider factors such as the number and size of tools, as well as any specialized equipment or accessories that require storage.

Choose a cabinet with adjustable shelves or modular configurations to adapt to changing storage needs over time.

Construction and Durability

Opt for a tool cabinet constructed from high-quality materials and built to withstand the rigours of daily use.

Steel cabinets offer superior durability and stability compared to plastic or wood alternatives, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.

Look for features such as welded seams, reinforced corners, and powder-coated finishes for enhanced strength and longevity.

Drawer and Compartment Design

Evaluate the drawer and compartment design of the tool cabinet to ensure optimal organization and accessibility.

Choose cabinets with full-extension drawers, ball-bearing slides, and removable dividers for maximum storage flexibility and ease of use.

Consider additional features such as foam-lined drawers or tool trays for added protection and organization of delicate or specialized tools.

Mobility and Portability

Determine whether mobility and portability are important factors in your workshop setup.

Mobile tool cabinets with casters or wheels offer flexibility and convenience, allowing craftsmen to easily reposition the cabinet as needed or transport tools between different work areas.

Consider cabinets with locking casters for stability during use and secure positioning when stationary.

Conclusion

Workshop tool cabinets serve as indispensable assets in the pursuit of excellence and efficiency in craftsmanship and DIY endeavours.

By providing organized storage, enhanced accessibility, and secure protection for tools and equipment, these cabinets empower craftsmen to unleash their creativity and productivity with confidence and precision.

Whether in a professional workshop or a home garage, the benefits of investing in a tool cabinet extend far beyond mere storage solutions – they embody the principles of organization, professionalism, and craftsmanship that define success in the workshop.

With the right tool cabinet at your disposal, the journey towards mastery and accomplishment becomes a seamless and rewarding experience, where every tool has its place and every project unfolds with precision and efficiency.

Building On Sand

Building on sand at first seems to be an issue…… although I have heard it said that sand is actually the easiest ‘soil to build on.

If you live in West Australia there is a good chance that your house will be on sand so there is plenty of experience around .

Raft Foundations


Modern raft foundations actually cope with this any problems of building on sand quite well.

This is because the raft foundation spreads the load of the building over the whole area of your house which matches the weight carrying capacity of the sand very well.

This is much better than concentrating the loads on the wall foundations.

If you are building on sand a waffle pod raft foundation is probably the best way to go.

This is because the waffle pod doesn’t rely on any excavated trenches of the conventional raft slab to form the beams that gives the base its rigidity.

Soil Erosion

The main concern with sand is that it is very erodible so its important to make sure that the building site is flat and there are adequate retaining walls preventing the sand being eroded on the downhill side of the house………and eventually from under the house!

This is particularly the case if you are building a property with a sea view, you wouldn’t like to finish like this *house!

*photo courtesy of Australian Coastal Society

 

See Ground Conditions for more about your new house foundations.

 

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