Archive for July, 2010

Understanding Cost Efficient Designs

Thursday, July 29th, 2010

Expensive RepairsFor most people who are considering renovating or building a new home, the cost of getting the project designed and built are their two main considerations.

But if your goal is to live in the property long term, then other factors need to be considered, not the least of which is the cost of upkeep and the running of your home.

For example, choosing a timber exterior might seem like a good idea initially, but painting the exterior of your home can be an expensive process, and one that needs to be factored in over the time that you will be living in your home. (more…)

6 Star Energy Rating Explained

Thursday, July 29th, 2010

Bronze starsYou may or may not have heard, but as of the 1st of May 2010, all new houses, townhouses and unit built in Queensland must achieve a 6 star energy rating.

Quite a few people have asked me what this means and how much it’s all going to cost, so I thought I would give you a quick overview here and hopefully help put your mind to rest.

Firstly, the 6 star energy rating is a rating out of 10. That means that your new dwelling does not need to be a 10 out of 10 in energy efficiency, it only needs to be a 6 out of 10. Of course you can go beyond the minimum 6 stars if you want to.

The idea behind the 6 star rating is to help to reduce the carbon footprint of your home. Interestingly it does not relate to the appliances that you use within your home, such as hot water systems, ovens, air-conditioners, heaters etc. Instead it takes into account thing like the materials your home is made from such as roofing, flooring and wall materials as well as the type, style and placement of windows. (more…)