External Cladding
Of course, we all want our homes to look wonderful, however what works for one home does not mean that it will work the same way for another.
Giving special attention before you invest lots of money can potentially save some unwanted future headaches.
Points to consider when making your selection:
· Local climate, each cladding system whether it be bricks, F/C sheeting or custom orb to name only a few, all have different thermal performances. A 9mm cement sheet holds a far more superior thermal mass than sheet metal custom orb, therefore in making your choice you will need to consider increasing the wall insulation for the sheet metal, so the overall system complies with what level is required in your local area. Some claddings have built in insulating and acoustic systems and therefore do not require additional forms of insulation. Cladding forms a part of the overall thermal and insulating system and should not be overlooked.
· Geographic conditions, are you in a high wind zone. If so, then cladding spans will change to comply which will limit your overall choices with some materials.
· Climatic conditions, ocean spray and salt air can cause long term damage and incorrect materials, and/or incorrect installation will cost thousands to repair. Get it right first up to enjoy the longevity of your cladding. There are many specialised options and systems available to give a long and healthy life with your cladding.
· Bushfire zones, cladding options and installation vary greatly depending upon the fire level. Always check that your cladding complies BEFORE you pay someone to install it.
· Installation, this can be very overlooked, especially by owner builders. Do your homework and weigh up the pros and cons, especially when it comes to new products and systems. Sometimes they require a specialist or specialised tools to install, always check. There are many simple options available that can usually give you the look you require.
· Cost, for example cladding a home in a F/C sheeting is very cheap until you discover that it requires special sealants and joining compounds and painting, whereas sheet metal custom orb might cost a bit more up front, it can be installed very fast in long lengths and requires no painting so overall is more cost effective that F/C sheeting.
· Aesthetics, very important. Remember that a single cladding is not a must and feature walls, or gable ends can make an enormous impact on your homes final look. Don’t be afraid to mix it up a little and think out of the box, it could mean the difference between an ordinary façade to an extraordinary façade.
For any advice, queries or further information surrounding the wide world of cladding options available, please just ask, we are here to give knowledge.
FAQs
Yes. All standard plans can be modified to suit your needs. You can change the number of rooms, increase or decrease the size of the house or if you prefer, you can bring your own plans for costing. more »
A full inclusions list can be found here. In general however, the kit includes all materials required for lockup but does not include on-site labour, transport and delivery charges, site survey, site clearing, PC items, concrete for footings, Electrical and plumbing etc. more »
Delivery areas include all Australian states and territories. Arrangements can also be made for international deliveries excluding some countries. more »
As an owner builder/manager you are effectively cutting out the builder and therefore should make a saving of 20% to 30%. If you choose to be more hands on and undertake some of the manual tasks such as erecting the walls and roof trusses, installing windows, doors and painting the internal and externals etc, your savings will be increased further. more »
The process to obtain an owner builders permit is usually very straight forward. There are a few requirements and depending on which state you are building in, may also require you to undergo a short course (usually a weekend course), either online or at a training school. In most states a small application fee is payable. Click here for more owner builder information. more »
Yes. Cyclonic kits can be purchased at an additional cost. These kits are manufactured with extra reinforcements that will make then suitable for areas prone to cyclones. All standard kits can be upgraded to cyclonic kits. All standard kits can be manufactured to meet with the cyclonic rating required for your area. more »
This is determined by the size of the home. Generally we can have the kit on site within three to five weeks from time of ordering. more »
The entire kit can be delivered to your site in a shipping container, or part container and part by truck. Delivery can also be made in stages upon request. It is up to you what is more suited to your build plan. more »
This depends upon the amount of labour and skill level. As a guide, a non-skilled owner builder can erect frames and roof trusses for an average size home in two to three days then the remainder of the build is similar to that of normal build times. A smaller kit can be built to lock up within a month. Larger, more complex homes will take longer. You should allow ten to twelve weeks on site for an average home. more »
The steel frame is Backed by a 50 year BlueScope Steel warranty and all other components of the build have their individual manufacturers warranties. more »
