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What you need to know about stone cladding

Stone cladding can increase the strength and durability of the walls. When it comes to choosing cladding stone there is an endless variety. However it depends on your requirements for the project what material should be used to clad the walls.

When it comes to stone cladding you should know that it refers to attaching a heavy material to a vertical surface. Your contractor might make use of natural stone cladded on a pre constructed structure.

The most common stones used for cladding include granite, limestone or sandstone. Natural stone is a popular choice of material because it creates an instantly dramatic yet a high performance façade. Usually stone panels are installed onto the building walls using a clip system. Stone cladding serves as a rain screen façade which also comprises of an interior drainage cavity which can instantly remove any moisture which might seep into it.

Choosing the right kind of stone cladding

There are a number of natural stones which make for excellent cladding material. This can be divided into three major groups comprising of sedimentary rocks, limestone and sandstone. Metamorphic stones like marble and ingenious rocks like granite.

When choosing the stone your contractor would consider a number of factors. These would be the appearance of the stone as well as how they are going to be used. The size of the project would also have an impact on choosing the stone for cladding the walls.

The aesthetic value of the stone plays an important part as well. There is a whole lot of variation in the colors of naturally occurring stone. If you are looking for something which is dark grey then basalt would be a typical choice. On the other hand if you are looking for soft hues of off white or light pink, you may want to make use of Jerusalem stone. Sandstone on the other hand has a rustic appeal and is usually found in shades of tan and dark brown. If there is a particular look that appeals to you may want to consider talking with your contractor. They may help you decide on a stone which would be suitable for your project.

There is also variation in the pattern and the veining in the stones. You can even have a stone customize for your project but it is best to talk to a manufacturer to get an idea regarding the options which might be available for you.

There is the difference in the texture of the stones as well. While some are fragmented, others are completely smooth. Some people may prefer a polished finish which can actually help bring out the contrast in the natural colors of the stone. Honed finish is somewhat smoother and has a consistent surface usually found in granite or marble.

It is important to consider the sustainability of the stone which is being used for cladding. It is necessary to consider the environmental impact as well as the durability of the stone.

How to find the right home builders in Brisbane

Our hectic schedule more often deprives us of quality time supposed to be spent with family and loved ones. Time becomes more hectic when you are thinking of having a house built or renovated.

For one thing, finding the top house builders in Brisbane is not an easy task. Other than depleting your energy and time in looking for the ONE, trusting one is another issue to face.

The struggle to find the right home builders in Brisbane is real and it can become impossible if you don’t know how to go about it.

Choosing your home builder in Brisbane

Your new home only becomes possible with the right home builder. This is why the step of choosing the right one is unarguably the most important action on your journey to a new home.

Sad stories about uncontrollable spiralling budgets, unfinished projects, and issues with builders are, unfortunately, common. Yet, it’s an undeniable fact that there are many capable and professional builders in Brisbane and elsewhere in Australia.

Home builders or building designers have varying state registration and regulation in Australia. Eventually, there will be a moving forward to national accreditation. Meanwhile, builders that are armed with the right qualifications and experience are the best options.

A firm foundation of good communication and relationship with the chosen builder is all it boils down to for you to avoid all the bad experiences. Here are some timely tips to do it well:

Don’t be too impulsive in approaching a builder

While it is obvious that approaching a builder is having your home started quickly, it pays not to be hasty in your decisions.

Asking for a price quote before details or drawings are on the table will encourage the builder to tell you what you want to hear.

The best way is to be armed with a list of specifics and a set of drawings before you approach a builder. This way spells a big difference with staying within your budget or spiralling off it.

Depends on the proposed project

Finding the right builder depends on the home project you have in mind. A luxury retail project needs multiple managers and teams for you to gain a high-quality house. Hiring contractors and builders can be quite expensive compared to projects that only need to convert an attic or renovate a kitchen.

Decide whether you just need a general builder or a specialist

A general all-around builder is what you only need for projects such as kitchen additions or attic conversions. What’s important is a clear design for a general builder to hire the right people such as electricians, cabinetmakers, etc to build the changes in the home.

Specify your preferences

Starting with a set of drawings is good, but planning out structural details with your builder is better. You need to set clear expectations for any preference with the builder to see if it can be included with the proposed price.

In a nutshell

Being organized and communicative about expected timetables and budget gives a builder the chance to do what is being asked. A comprehensive list that you and your builder agree on makes the end inspection a satisfying experience all around. While adding things as the project advances are unavoidable, it’s not playing fair to the builder if you keep coming up with more than agreed on.