An Expert Guide to Home Construction

Buying, building or renovating a house? With years of experience in the construction industry, we know what it takes to create a comfortable home. For us, a dream home is economical to run, easy to modify, friendly to the environment and healthy to live in.

Affordability

In Australia, housing affordability is an issue. One barrier to affordability is high building costs. Savvy citizens use cheap construction materials to reduce prices. Though you want to save some bucks, don’t sacrifice comfort and quality.

Liveable and Adaptable

People who build from scratch live in their homes for decades. Buyers prefer a shorter stay. Whatever the period, adaptable and livable homes are the in thing. Create a space that, at different times, acts as a home office, spare bedroom, family study or teenage retreat. If possible and affordable, build a large family home that’s split-able. As your family grows, consider expanding your existing structure.

Construction Systems

These are the materials used to build your home’s roof, floor and walls. There are many and diverse. Each has its benefits and drawbacks depending on climate, budget, maintenance requirements and desired style. When choosing materials, consider their durability, environmental impact, cost effectiveness, local availability and recycling potential.

Revolutionary Design

Design for climate – not looks alone. The passive design, using natural resources like the sun and wind, heats and cools the house. It’s achieved through orientation and shading. Seal your building against air leaks to reduce energy bills and improve comfort.

Green Roofs and Walls

“Living” structures support real flora. Plants improve a building’s appearance and performance. Live foliage creates a healthy, eco-friendly building and contributes to stormwater management, thermal performance, food production and biodiversity conservation. A green roof is a flat or pitched surface that’s planted completely or partially. Green walls, either internal or external, support plants rooted in growing mats or stacked pots.

Energy Saving

Australian households generate 20% of Australia’s carbon footprint. This could be minimised by:

  • Reducing energy use through energy-efficient technologies and good design.
  • Using renewable energy sources, especially solar and wind.
Heating and Cooling

Install an HVAC system. Gas heaters are better than electric ones as they produce fewer greenhouse gases. Solar heaters and heat shifters lower the amount of heating required. Evaporative coolers and fans are the cheapest cooling options.

Water Conservation

Australia is a dry continent. Besides inadequate rainfall, Australians are water guzzlers. We have to reduce the quantity of water we use and improve water quality through wastewater and stormwater management. Opt for water-efficient toilets, showerheads, taps and appliances. Using rainwater lowers water bills and maintains a green garden. Wastewater, either grey or black, is suitable for irrigation.

Waste Minimisation

Apply the 3R’s of waste management – reduce, reuse, and recycle. Reduce demand for materials by renovating. Reuse existing materials or components. Recycle materials instead of dumping them.

Hiring Builders

Not all builders are created equal. To find a quality builder, do online searches and ask for recommendations. It’s an added advantage if the builder has built multiple homes like the one you’re eyeing. Check for licensure and insurance.

Planning a new build or renovation? Kookaburra Homes, experts in house construction are amongst the top building companies in Adelaide. To read more about Kookaburra Homes visit their website. Also, keep up to date with news in the Adelaide building industry.