A curated list of the most interesting thoughts, stories and ideas
We’ve grown accustomed to flashy kitchens and sleek "hamptons style" façades, but what about the hidden quality issues? In this article we discuss why Australian builders and their directors must be held accountable for delivering healthier, more durable homes beyond mere compliance.
Residential building supervisors can elevate their skills and project outcomes with PRINCE2 training. This method offers a structured approach to managing construction projects, focusing on quality, cost control, risk management, and delivering superior results for clients
Learn how the BuilderPulse Metric (BPM) can be used to assess a builder's financial health and capacity (pulse). Ensure your builder is capable of delivering work before signing a contract.
Residential construction quality in Australia often falls short, leaving home owners "holding the bag". In this post we discuss the need for stricter quality control, including mandatory ITPs and a demerit point system, to improve accountability and ensure compliance with NCC and Standards.
As Australia pushes the Misinformation Bill 2024 through Parliament, concerns over free speech and government exemptions are growing. This article explores the bill’s potential impact on democratic debate and why it’s crucial that government is held to the same standards as citizens.
Inspection Test Plans (ITPs) are the only way to start ensuring construction quality, but without proper regulatory oversight, their effectiveness is limited. In this article, we explore why mandatory ITPs and oversight are the key to improving the quality of residential construction in Australia.
Explore the potential of Community Land Trusts to improve housing affordability in Australia. Learn how CLTs work, their benefits, and how they can be implemented in today's economic climate.
In this post we discuss the economic and social benefits of housing as a social purpose, the challenges we face, and the steps needed to make housing more accessible. Learn how government policies, innovative models, and community support can pave the way for a more equitable future.
Discover how Divorce Response GPT aids in managing emotionally charged communications, providing a balanced approach during divorce situations
Tired of paying for expensive software and dealing with forced obsolescence? Linux Mint offers a free, open-source alternative to Windows and macOS, providing a user-friendly, customizable, and secure operating system that runs smoothly on both new and old hardware.
Tired of big tech companies exploiting your personal data? GrapheneOS offers a secure, privacy-focused alternative to mainstream operating systems. In this guide, we explore what GrapheneOS is, why you should consider using it, and how to install it. Take control of your digital life today.
Critical Chain Project Management (CCPM) can improve residential construction. By focusing on resource optimisation, task prioritisation, and buffer management, CCPM helps project managers overcome common challenges, reduce costs, and deliver high-quality homes on time and within budget.
addy.io, is a private email relay service that helps protect your real email address by creating secure aliases. This service is ideal for maintaining privacy, preventing spam, and organizing your inbox.
Explore a day in the life of Bob the Builder, highlighting the constant challenges and dedication required in the construction industry
Discover how the build-to-rent model provides a viable alternative to home ownership, benefiting renters and aiding government housing strategies.
Explore the evolution of project builders from traditional construction companies to marketing-focused entities, offering standardised building products.
This guide addresses common problems like overhanging branches, root damage, and property disputes, highlighting the Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011.
Despite regulatory hurdles and logistical challenges, modular construction is gaining popularity for its ability to deliver high-quality, eco-friendly homes quickly. Successful projects highlight its potential to meet housing needs while maintaining high standards.
Kickbacks in project building create conflicts of interest, compromise quality, and foster distrust. This article explores how these unethical practices impact building supervisors and clients, leading to substandard work and hidden costs.
Explore these 21 practical tips to save thousands on your home construction project. From selecting the right site to conducting thorough inspections and choosing cost-effective materials, each tip is designed to help you avoid costly mistakes and make informed decisions.
Part 2 of our concrete pathway repair series provides a detailed account of the repair process. From preparation to post-pour photos, we cover every step, highlighting crucial aspects like subgrade preparation, reinforcement, and control joints.
This report assesses a concrete pathway job, highlighting deficiencies and providing detailed recommendations for improvements. Key issues include lack of subgrade preparation, improper reinforcement, and inadequate finishing.
Before entering a home building contract, ask yourself vital questions about land ownership, site conditions, financial readiness, and contract specifics. This ensures you are prepared for any challenges, making the building process smoother and avoiding costly surprises.
Off-gassing releases VOCs from building materials and household products, impacting indoor air quality and health. Common sources include paints, finishes, and furniture. Health effects range from headaches to serious conditions like cancer.
A contour survey maps land elevation,important for new homeowners in planning and construction. Understand RP and SP roles, contour lines, and reduced levels. This guide helps interpret survey plans for accurate design, drainage, and compliance.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the residential building process in Australia, highlighting key stages from the initial deposit to the final handover. It offers insights into contract stage claims and the elements within each stage.
Brick masonry is a popular choice for house construction due to its durability, aesthetics, and flexibility. But did you know there are eight different types of brick masonry that can be used? Each type has its own unique characteristics that make it suitable for different applications.
Do you truly understand nominative and informative standards? Present in many sectors, these standards play a significant role in construction. Understanding these distinctions can affect numerous decisions, from choosing materials to planning methods.
In the rapidly evolving construction industry, staying organised is crucial. One way to do this is through construction daily report applications. This comprehensive guide reviews some of the best apps available in 2024 to assist with daily construction management.
Discover what Value Engineering is and how it can dramatically impact residential construction. Gain insights into how Value Engineering can optimise cost-efficiency and improve quality, on your next residential construction project.
This article discusses the end of free access to Australian Standards in public libraries since 2018, its effects on small businesses, safety compliance, and the balance between public and corporate interests. Options for future access and public mobilization strategies are also explored.
Discover the power of Value Stream Mapping (VSM) in residential construction. This article looks into VSM's application for process optimisation, waste reduction, and efficiency enhancement, offering a step-by-step guide and insights into technology integration for better project management.
In this article, we emphasise the importance of having a maintenance calendar for residential homes, blending preventative and reactive strategies. Be on top of maintenace and reduce long term costs.
Learn the right way to install wall wrap according to Australian Standards. This guide explains the proper sequence for installing windows, doors, and wall wrap, highlighting the importance of correct installation for maintaining the building envelope and enhancing your home's energy efficiency.
Explore the 5 key factors determining wind classification for new homes, including geographic wind region, terrain category, topography, shielding, and distance from coastlines or high wind regions. Understanding these factors is essential for building homes that can withstand specific wind forces.
Look into the application of systems thinking in Australia's home building industry. This article discusses how a holistic approach can address key challenges, enhance collaboration, and drive innovation, ultimately leading to higher quality, efficiency, & customer satisfaction.
Explore the growing mould issue in Australian homes caused by condensation. This article discusses the lack of regulatory oversight, the science behind condensation, its impact on health and homes, and the urgent need for improved building practices and standards.
Discover why builders need ITP (Inspect, Test, Plan) for quality and client relations. ITP ensures each construction stage meets standards, enhancing client trust and reducing rework. It's a win-win for builders and homeowners, leading to better builds and stronger relationships.
Effective drainage is vital for foundation health. This article explores how proper grading and gutter maintenance can prevent structural damage, highlighting the importance of water flow management and soil stability around your home.
Navigating the residential construction process for the first time? This guide breaks down the five crucial stages of customer awareness you'll encounter. From problem recognition to post-purchase evaluation, arm yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
Unveil emotional marketing's secrets and spending manipulation. From FOMO to greed, learn marketer's tricks to override rational thinking. Resist impulse buys, make informed choices, outsmart marketers!
Despite the advancements in building science, many new homes remain energy sieves. Why? The focus of most project builders is on profits rather than energy efficiency. As homeowners pay top dollar for new homes, they later find themselves burdened with high energy costs.
Building your dream home? Understand the intricacies of residential building variations. From design changes to unforeseen issues, variations can impact your project's cost and timeline. Dive into the guide to navigate the variation maze with confidence
Controlling moisture during construction is crucial. By sealing plumbing fixtures, using moisture-resistant materials, and employing temporary ventilation, moisture retention can be effectively managed.
External cladding is a homeowner's shield against the elements, enhancing aesthetics, durability, and energy efficiency. Dive deep into cladding options, from classic brick to sleek metal.
For first-time homebuyers, separating truth from deceit can be challenging. Dive into tools and techniques that sharpen your instinct and aid in lie detection.
This article looks into Helen Keller's quote, 'A happy life consists not in the absence, but in the mastery of hardships.' Drawing from theoretical and practical philosophy, it explores how mastering hardships can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and true happiness.
Adversity often stirs fear and hopelessness, but what if it's the key to personal growth? This article explores Peter Drucker's powerful quote, urging us to become architects of our destiny. Unearth the opportunities concealed within struggles and learn to shape your future proactively.
Building a new home can be both exciting and challenging. To ensure success, it's important to balance the "holy trinity" of project management: time, cost, and quality. In this article, we'll explore how you can achieve this balance and create your dream home
Considering the air quality in your new home? Dive into the 12 compelling benefits of installing a ventilation system. From controlling impurities and reducing temperatures to alleviating asthma symptoms and mitigating VOC impacts, discover how ventilation can enhance your living environment.