Month: August 2020

Categories
Walls & flooring

The steps to take when renovating floors

There are a lot of big and small housing projects that can make a significant impact on how a home feels. One of those projects that are commonly tackled is getting new floors. When you start thinking about getting new floors for your house, there are a lot of decisions to make. Do you want tile or hardwood? Should you pick Berber or plush carpeting?

Once you’ve figured out what kind of floor you want there are more decisions to be made like, who is going to install the floor and how long will it take? If you need a guide for some of the steps to take when you’re planning to remodel your floors keep reading.

Don’t be overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done. Taking each step at a time is all you need to do to prepare yourself and your home for the new flooring that is going to take your house to a new level.

1. Get prepared

When you’re ready to jump into getting a new floor, the first thing you will need to do is have your floored measured. You can do this yourself for a rough estimate while you shop for the floor treatments you prefer, but it is important to have a professional come out to your home and measure before an order is placed. You don’t want to be stuck without enough carpet or tile!

Once all your supplies are in stock, go ahead and schedule an installation date. Before your installers come, have a plan to move furniture out of the way so they can quickly get your new floor put in. If you are having multiple rooms of flooring put in, you may have to move your furniture in stages.

It may seem like a lot of work to move all your furniture but rearranging it around your home is easier than renting a storage unit. You can check if your installers are able to move your furniture but be aware that may be an extra fee if you opt not to do it yourself.

You will also want to make sure you have a clear path ready for the installers to bring in all the materials. If you’ve blocked off your entryway with your couch and coffee table, they won’t be able to easily maneuver their way in with a huge roll of carpet. You may also need to take fragile items off your walls since the hammering may disrupt them or cause them to fall.

Another thing to plan before your installation process begins is, having a waste removal plan. It may be that your installers will take your old carpeting and carpet pad, but it is certainly good to have an expectation of what will happen. If you are responsible for hiring a skip bin, be sure to schedule it’s delivery early, so you don’t stall the installation timeline.

2. Seal off and protect

If you are having a hardwood floor installed, sealing off rooms that aren’t getting flooring is especially important. Any flooring project is going to kick up some dust and debris, but the process for hardwood flooring can be very messy, especially when sanding is necessary which it often is.

You will want to try to keep the dust in your home to a minimum if possible, and the best ways to do that are to seal rooms off completely. If you will need to access rooms during the flooring process, then the next best thing is to use zippered plastic seals, so that rooms can be closed off as much as possible.

It is important to remove doors that go between areas where new flooring will go. Keep track of all the hinge pieces in labelled bags so the doors will reinstall easily and you won’t find a hinge pin has gone missing. Storing the doors out of the way will help prevent them from being damaged.

Don’t forget to seal air vents as well, especially since the dust can damage your HVAC system. Dust also be transported around your home and cause respiratory issues. If you need to run the air conditioning or heat during your installation, use fibreglass sheets to help keep the dust at bay while still allowing airflow.

You may want to get an air purifier to help cut down on the dust in the air and help you breathe better while you get a new floor. Be sure to protect the floors that will not be remodelled, so they aren’t damaged by heavy equipment and your installer’s boots. Old carpeting, thick towels or plastic pads are great options to keep your other floors looking great.

3. Check your subfloor

You may not give much thought to your subfloor, the plywood surface that your new floor will rest on, but you should. If your subfloor is rotten or has cracks or dips, it should be replaced or fixed so that your floor looks it’s very best. The subfloor can also be the cause for those squeaks you hear, so this is a great time to update it if needed!

Since your subfloor is the foundation of your new floor, you want it to be at it’s best. Have your flooring experts include a new subfloor in your estimate so all the work can be done at once. Another option involves replacing them yourselves before the installation. You want your subfloor to be stable and even for the best installation possible.

If when your old flooring is removed there are excess nails or staples in the subfloor a professional installer will have a plan in place and know what to do to remove them so that your new floor will look great on even, and good quality subfloor.

Room undergoing renovation with dusty wooden floors and guttered walls.
Create a flat and even subfloor for your new flooring. / Source: The Trady Lady

4. Get the floor installed

Laying carpet is an entirely different process than installing a hardwood floor. The next step is to make sure the floor installation is correct. Hiring a professional to put your new floor in place is the best indicator that you’re on the right track to a great new floor. Still, even professionals can make mistakes, so be sure to look over their work before they leave.

Installing carpeting can go quickly; in many cases, it will be a one day process that is completed in a matter of hours. Hardwood floors can take up to a week to be completed depending on the size of the area you are putting the wooden floor in. Hardwood floors have specific aftercare instructions that should be followed.

Once your hardwood floors are in place, you can walk on them in about 6 hours with socks on. It is best to wait at least 24 hours before walking on new hardwood floors with shoes on and waiting a minimum of 48 hours before you move your furniture back into place. These rules may seem inconvenient but follow them if you want your investment to last without damage.

With proper care and maintenance, a good hardwood floor’s finish should last a minimum of 10 years. They can last potentially longer by giving the floor time before you begin walking through consistently.

Large kitchen with timber floors, timber cabinetry, and white benchtops.
A hardwood timber floor can transform the look of your home / Source: Absolute

5. Finishing touches

Baseboards:

If you were going to get new baseboards or paint to follow up on your new floor, now is the time to do it. It is always better to put baseboards on after the flooring so the baseboards won’t suffer any damage from flooring installation.

Mouldings and floor trims:

Mouldings and trims have the ability to give your flooring materials an ideal fit around the edges. They’re available in various kinds. 

If you’re planning to cover a gap between your walls and skirting board, you can use quarter-round moulding. End-cap moulding or square-nose moulding is a decorative edging strip used around your metal door tracking and around your walls. It connects two flooring materials that are not of the same type. It’s also used as alternate option to quarter-round moulding.

If any trim or threshold pieces need to be placed, this is when that will happen as well. There may be some cleanup to do, but once you’ve waited the allotted time, you can move your furniture back into place and enjoy your new floor.

Coatings (sealants, oils and lacquers):

To prevent dirt and spills from ruining your wooden floor, you may want to apply a coat of lacquer or oil. With so many choices, choosing the right floor coating can be overwhelming unless you know a bit about its chemical makeup. 

For example, solvent-borne, polyurethane-based coatings are great for resisting scratches and wear and tear, but these finishes will yellow with time. Oil-modified urethane coatings have a mineral base and will make your floor look beautiful, but they have to be reapplied every few years. Water-borne polyurethanes have an advantage because they’re non-toxic, and they never yellow. They’re also durable and fast-drying, which makes them a superb option for your floor. Epoxy-based coatings have strong chemical compounds that bond together to create an extremely hard, durable finish. If you live with children or elderly family members and you’re worried about safety, you can also opt for an anti-slip coating, which improves floor traction and makes falls less likely to occur. Acrylic and coloured sealant work best on laminate or timber flooring.

Conclusion

Getting a new floor can be easy when you follow these five steps. Work with your professional flooring experts to get the best possible experience and the floor you’ve always wanted. Whether you pick tile, carpet or another flooring option your experience may vary but these steps are necessary to work for anyone and any flooring project.

Categories
Heating & cooling

What is hydronic heating?

Hydronic heating is one a popular method of heating a household by circulating boiling water through closed pipes. It works by heating water in a boiler until it becomes pressurised in specially designed pipes that then radiate heat where you need it. The warmth from hydronic heating all relates to how warm the water is. The water needs to be heated to make the room warm, which is done before it reaches the pipes.

The radiators will last indefinitely if properly maintained, and homeowners can also get heated towel rails for their bathrooms that use hydronic heating.

Here, we’ll give you the complete run down on hydronic heating, so you can decide if it’s the right heating solution for your home.

Source: Shutterstock

Benefits of hydronic heating

1. Versatile & efficient energy sources

A lot of heaters are surprisingly wasteful, but hydronic heaters use gas boilers, which can be as much as 95% efficient. The water that is circulated through the home is first heated inside the boiler – which can be powered with an electric, geothermal, natural gas, solar, or most commonly a gas-powered pump. With the ability to operate on several different power sources, the versatile nature of a hydronic system can be the perfect solution for even the most frugal or environmentally conscious of consumers. Safety: The fact that the external panels that radiates the heat doesn’t get hot enough to burn means small kids and innocent pets are safe being around a hydronic heating system.

Plus, being one of the more economical forms of heating, owners are able to set the temperature slightly lower than they normally would and still maintain the desired level of comfort.

Pro tip: Using radiators with low water content will save even more energy.

2. Reliability

With anything you install in your home, you need it to be reliable. But, it is a bonus when you find a reliable unit that is also low maintenance. Hydronic heating offers that solution.

Aside from the power options, the reliability and effiiciency of a hydronic heating unit become apparent when you have the ability to set temperatures based on the area of the home you want to be heated. Hydronic heating works by using zoning, heating only the areas of the house that are most used, rather than warming areas where no one is. You control the thermostats that maintain the temperature, so you’re always comfortable. Hydronic means water, but none is wasted in the cycling system that recirculates well enough so that you only add a bit of water once a year.

3. Safe for the whole household

Unlike other heating units, the hydronic heating system does not use fans to blow the heated air. Without these fans circulating things like allergens, dust, bugs, and pollen that can irritate allergies or asthma conditions, your home’s air will be cleaner. Hydronic heating gently warms the water, which circulates to radiators for a calm and healthy environment that’s neither humid nor dry.

In addition to being allergen-friendly, hydronic heating also poses very little by way of a fire hazard, is safe to touch and there are no electrical connections to worry about.

4. Comfort

The gentle, spreading and even heat of hydronic heating makes it especially comfortable. No more bursts of oppressively hot air. Instead, the warmth radiates up through the floor to strategically located radiators for a constant and consistent temperature. If the air starts to go cool or get too warm, the specialty thermostats recognise the change and immediately adjust the temperature. You can leave the heater running all through the cold season without feeling uncomfortable about the air or the bills.

5. It looks good

Most people expect their heating systems to be a bit of an eyesore, but the radiators that are used with hydronic heating systems are available in a wide variety of colours, designs and styles to compliment your decor. If you’re not into the decorative radiators, you can opt for the floor heating, which is completely hidden from view and located within the piping beneath the floorboards. Stylish and practical, hydronic heating is poised to completely overtake other systems.

Modern bathroom with black heated towel rack
Hydronic heated radiators come in a variety of designs and colours / Source: Shutterstock

Different types of hydronic heating

There are a number of options when it comes to hydronic heating. Aside from what energy source you’ll use, the other main choice is between hydronic floor heating and hydronic wall heaating.

Hydronic wall heating

In this type of hydronic heating the hot water runs through pipes to these radiators or panels on the walls throughout the home. This is the most economical version because installation won’t require removing and replacing flooring.

Hydronic floor heating

Hydronic floor heating warms the floor of your home by heating the pipes beneath the surface. The pipes heat will warm the floor, making the whole room warmer as the heat rises. Whether your floor is made of slabs, screed or timber, it will work well with hydronic floor heating. There are a few different types of hydronic floor heating:

Slab hydronic floor heating: In this system, the heating system is laid directly into the concrete slab of the floor. Rugged plastic pipes joined with leak-proof fittings distribute the heated water throughout the house. The temperature of the system is controlled with specially-designed air-sensing thermostats. A slab hydronic system may take as long as a day or two to sufficiently warm the slab flooring, but once it has begun, the system will continuously radiate heat throughout the room during the entire winter.

Screed hydronic floor heating: This system works in a similar way to slab hydronic floor heating, except that the plastic pipes are placed on the topping screed of the concrete flooring, rather than embedded inside it. This system mitigates construction delays and is much quicker to install, because the pipes arent installed directly within the poured concrete. In addition, a screed hydronic system heats up and cools down much more quickly because of the pipes being on top.

You can also choose to have hydronic floor heating installed underneath battened timber floors. This type of system uses plastic pipes that are installed over insulation panels directly below the floorboards. The pipes run securely through the battens, and the water temperature is controlled by a floor thermostat. The difference, however, is that this type of thermostat is typically set at a maximum 27 degrees Celsius so as not to damage the timber floors.

In addition to timber and concrete slab flooring, hydronic floor heating can be used under tiles, linoleum, rugs and carpeting.

Which hydronic heating system is right for you?

So what do you need to consider when choosing a hydronic heating system? It depends on a few things, the most important of which is how you power your boiler. Youll need to check the advantages and disadvantages of each. An example of this is that although solar power is the cheapest option, a backup may be needed for when it doesnt provide your home with as much energy as it needs. Gas is also fairly cheap and comes with a number of choices, such as LPG or natural gas. On the other hand, the price of gas can vary over time and may become more expensive in the following years.

Finally, it is worth considering the aesthetics of your boiler. The great thing about hydronic floor heating is that it is invisible – you wont see any evidence of it after installation is complete. With radiators, panels will be visible around the room, but you can choose what style you like. In some ways, this can really enhance a rooms appearance.

When considering installing this heating technology, it is important to work in conjunction with an architect or designer to ensure it will fit with your new home design. If planning to instal it in an existing home, work closely with a hydronic heating company. The company can help you decide the location for the instal, the type of system, the number of heating zones, the location of thermostats and the ideal temperatures achieved from the heating.

Installing hydronic heating

Since hydronic heating is a special type of system, it must be installed by a registered expert. The supplier should be able to provide an installer to construct the boiler (needed for heating the water), pipe work (floor or walls), radiator, temperature sensors, and thermostats.

Installation costs will depend on a variety of factors so you should therefore assess your personal requirements and budget, and have a specialist design a system that will meet your needs. He or she can also choose the ideal method of powering the system, which will reduce running costs. Always ask for a quote before work begins.

While it’s best to install hydronic heating during a new home build, it can also be retrofitted if required.

Categories
Heating & cooling

Can you retrofit hydronic heating?

Many homeowners are eager to know if they can retrofit hydronic heating to their existing home. While you’ll often hear that it’s recommended to install a hydronic system during the building stage, it’s still possible to retrofit a system and reap the benefits of hydronic heating at any point. Here, we’ll take you through the process of how to retrofit hydronic heating in your home.

What is hydronic heating?

Hydronic heating is a system that uses an isolated boiler to heat water. The water is then distributed throughout the walls and floors of a home through a closed pipe system.

Checking for access to pipework

When building a new home, hydronic heating installers can place the pipework in the best positions to achieve maximum convenience and efficiency. However, with existing homes, installers need to work around your pipework as it currently stands and find the best ways to reach it given the structure and foundations of your home. Because this is a more involved and lengthy process, it can end up being an expensive process.

Depending on how your home has been built, an installer may need to access the pipework via the ceiling and walls, or under the house. If there is sufficient crawl space under your home, you may be able to install underfloor heating pipes to the floor’s underside, in between the floor’s joists.

Cosy winter living room
Source: Shutterstock

However, when there isn’t sufficient crawl space, all floor coverings will need to be removed to uncover the joists and lay new pipes from above.

When retrofitting hydronic panel radiators, it’s crucial you have underfloor access, as this is where the pipework needs to run. While fitting off of the new panels is easy, it’s possible the installer will need to rip up some of your flooring to gain complete access, so you will need to take into consideration the cost of re-laying and patching up parts of your flooring.

Assessing suitability of floor coverings 

But beware – even if you can easily access all necessary pipework, your existing floor coverings may not be the most suitable for underfloor hydronic heating.

An underfloor heating system’s pipework needs to be able to effectively transfer heat to the floor surface. If the floor covering is not an efficient conductor of heat (i.e. it doesn’t store the heat well), then you won’t be able to feel the warmth coming through. Furthermore, unsuitable floor coverings like solid timber, can warp, bend or even crack due to the moisture and temperature changes in the system. Many installers will recommend ceramic and stone tiles, as they’re excellent conductors of heat. Make sure you consult with a flooring expert in your area before making this major decision.

It’s extremely important to discuss flooring options with your installer before you proceed with a retrofit of an underfloor system, as the wrong floor coverings could result in an inefficient system, or even damaged floors. In fact, selecting suitable flooring is the key to successfully retrofitting an underfloor system.

Investing in proper insulation

The importance of proper insulation throughout the home cannot be overstated. No matter how advanced or expensive your system is, it simply won’t work if all the heat escapes through the floors and walls. As such, it’s vital you invest in insulation battens to minimise heat loss. What’s more, hydronic heating works at much lower temperatures than other conventional heating systems, so even the smallest bit of heat loss can make a big difference to your household’s comfort.

Accommodating for the increase in floor height 

In some cases, you might be able to install a special underfloor heating panel directly on top of your existing flooring, without the need of ripping it all up. While these underfloor panels are extremely convenient, they do add approximately 15mm to your floor height, and that’s before your new flooring has been applied on top. While this may sound like a minimal change, even just a slight increase in floor height can affect the placement of skirtings and the height of doors around the home. As such, you may need to do a bit of readjusting and planning to accommodate for this change, such as adding a step to adjoining rooms, or planning down wooden doors.

Finding the right time to install

Due to the expense of installing a new system, it’s important you give yourself time to do your research on which system is best for you, and to find a trustworthy installer. If you leave it too close to wintertime, you may find yourself making quick decisions without having done any proper research, which could have disastrous consequences. Plus, installation of some systems can be a lengthy process, and you don’t want to be shivering through the colder months without any form of heating at all.

For this reason, spring may be the most sensible time to begin your research and install a new system – be it a hydronic system or otherwise. Planning your installation ahead of the cooler months may also mean you can find cheaper deals and more competitively priced systems. Installers are also less likely to be booked out at this time of year, so you won’t have to wait as long to get going.

Wrap up

If you’ve missed the opportunity to install hydronic heating while building your home, retrofitting a system is nevertheless a viable option. But keep in mind that it isn’t as simple as laying down some pipework and switching it on. There’s extensive preparation involved, and it’s likely to be a costly exercise, given you’ll be ripping up floors and installing new ones. And if you’re retrofitting panel radiators, you’ll also have to factor in their purchase cost, which can be significant given most homes have several radiators.

With that in mind, many homeowners find that the initial cost of retrofitting a system is worth the comfort it delivers. Plus, hydronic heating is extremely energy efficient, and could help you make significant savings in household energy bills in the long term.

Remember, retrofitting hydronic heating is certainly a complex task, and should only be entrusted to the expertise of licensed professionals who have the right tools and experience to conduct a proper installation.

Categories
Building & renovations

5 ways to dispose of renovation waste

There are millions of things to consider when undertaking a home renovation or remodelling project. Too often left at the bottom of the list is planning how you will dispose of your renovation waste. Whether you’re replacing your kitchen cabinets or remodelling your bathroom, it is inevitable that you will produce waste.

Often, the volume of renovation rubbish left over ends up being more than expected. Without proper waste disposal plans, insulation, old plaster, glass and other renovation materials are piling up in your garage. It goes without saying that you should decide beforehand whether you’ll get a rubbish removal service or dispose of the waste yourself.

Whether you’re completing a large scale renovation, or a smaller update – you will inevitably have renovation waste to dispose of / Source: Shutterstock

Here, we’ll explore the different options when it comes to renovation waste removal.

1.  Check which items can be donated

The idiom “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” can be taken literally when we’re talking about renovation waste. If the items or materials you’d want to get rid of are still in good condition, there might be a family that can still benefit from them.

There are a number of donation centers where you can drop off your usable items. It is worth mentioning that they accept everything from cabinets, light fixtures, and appliances to windows, doors and other materials that can still be used for other building projects.

Dn’t forget to contact donation centres prior to dropping off your usable items. Just to be sure, ask them if they accept the materials or items you’re planning to dispose of.

There’s just one thing you have to remember. When you’re planning to donate your usable renovation rubbish, you have to keep them in good condition and be careful when you’re removing them. This means that you have to decide which items you’re donating and have them carefully removed before you swing that sledgehammer.

2. Bring your renovation waste to the dump

If you want to save money in disposing of your renovation waste, you can bring the rubbish to a landfill. Once you’ve decided which items to donate and which to discard, you can use a flatbed truck or a trailer to dump the waste to your local landfill.

Before you drive to the landfill, it is best that you sort the materials. Typically, different materials go to their designated stations. For instance, most landfills have designated stations for scrap metal, copper, large appliances and old computers. It is always best to call your local landfill to get information on rules like this.

3. Give away, sell or repurpose some materials

One of the ways you can save money and time on waste disposal is by giving away or selling some of the discarded materials from your renovation. Your old oven might be useful to a friend or a relative who’s moving house for the first time, or someone on your local neighbourhood Facebook group may find your old bricks useful for paving stones for their patio.

If you’re planning to tear down an interior wall to free up some space, consider repurposing the timber. Timber is a valuable resource and you can use it to create a new hall table or cabinet. There are a lot of resources online where you can find DIY projects related to repurposing old materials. Not only will it save you money off your next project, but it’s also better for the environment – win, win!

4. Contact your local garbage collection service

You will be surprised to discover that you can ask your local garbage collection service to pick up your renovation waste. For a certain price, you can ask them to pick up your bulk rubbish. All you have to do is inform them what type of items you’re disposing of; the size of the rubbish and the pickup location. Most of the time, this type of service is inexpensive and the cost typically depends on the size of your renovation rubbish.

5. Get a skip bin hire service

Another option you can take is getting a skip bin hire service. Skip bins come in a range of sizes and they are one of the most cost-effective and convenient solutions for renovation waste removal. When you decide to take your waste to the landfill, you have to go back and forth to the site. You can save time and money by hiring a skip bin that can accommodate all the rubbish you need to dispose of.

What’s fantastic about skip bins is the fact that they are the clean and green option for removing waste. There are bin rental companies that bring the waste to a licensed sorting facility. This means that your renovation waste will be sorted and salvaged to be redistributed or reused.

Renovation rubbish disposal does not have to be a time-consuming and tedious task. Just remember to do your research and find the most efficient, affordable and convenient option that will work for you.

Categories
Construction

Different types of garage doors

For most homes, the most striking feature is the garage door. It faces the road, it’s by far the largest door, and it may even be attached to a freestanding structure. More than that, your garage door is functional in that it protects your car and other garage contents from the elements and intruders. Here, we’ll explore the common types of garage doors on the market, and whether you should consider them for your home. are the most common types op

Here’s a round up of the most common types of garage doors.

1. Sectional doors

Sectional garage doors are made up of around six to eight segments that retract upward and inward at the same time. When the door is fully open, they lie flat against the ceiling. These are a reliable and durable option – each of the panels has its own connection to the main door track to ensure it’s secure when opened or closed. Repairs can be conducted on just the affected panel, instead of the entire structure.

Another benefit of the sectional door? Because they don’t need to be flung open, the space in front of the door is free to use.

Source: Smart Realty

2. Tilt-up garage doors

With this style of door, wide doors open up and when open are parallel to the ground. When they retract, they are flush against the garage ceiling. They come in a wide variety of colours and styles, and are a popular choice as they can be more customisable (e.g. glass panels) than a roller or sectional door. However, because they swing out then up they do require a large amount of clearance space in front of the door.

3. Roller shutter doors

Garage door roller shutters are made from a coated steel panel that smoothly rolls open, providing access to your garage. They are safe, secure and made from top-quality materials like Colorbond steel in a wide range of colours.

Manual or automatic options are available. For the manual option – simply unlock the door and push it open, then pull it down and lock it when you’re done. If you need to retension a roller door or tension a roller garage door, there are resources available on how to retension a roller door or how to tension a roller door for proper operation. The automated option – which is considerably more expensive – operates in the same way, except using a remote control.

Automatic roller shutters also feature an electronic safety beam that detects movement across the width of the garage entranceway. If the beam senses that anything is crossing through this area, it will automatically re-open the door. This safety feature can keep pets and children from getting caught when the door comes rolling down, ensuring your roller door retention remains intact.

4. Side-hinged doors

The oldest type of garage door available is the side-hinge door. In fact, this style predates automobiles. These are fixed at the side, and swing-out like a regular door. While this style takes up more space than a sectional or roller door, they are easy to use and provide a more unusual, vintage aesthetic.

Every type will get the job done, but you might have to eliminate one or two choices depending on the layout of your garage or how much clearance you need in front of the garage to open it. Keep in mind that if you choose any kind of hinge door, you will need to keep a minimum amount of space in front of the door clear so you can open it.

Other considerations when selecting a garage door

Choice of material

It might be true that traditional garage doors were made with flat panel plywood, sheet metal or hollow core for those on a budget, and fibreglass or solid timber for those homeowners willing to splurge, but today you have many more options in a variety of prices. In addition to the choices already listed, they also include powder-coated aluminium and vinyl doors. These are becoming popular for the many choices of colours, their affordability and their durability. Wide tempered glass panels are also gaining popularity – because the panels are in aluminium frames they can also be used indoors to replace sliding glass doors.

Here’s a quick view of the pros and cons of the different types of materials available for your garage door.

  • Timber: Timber can be painted to any colour you want. While a painted garage door can look striking, it will need regular maintenance.
  • Steel: A popular choice, it doesn’t require as much upkeep and is more durable than timber.
  • Aluminium: While these are lightweight and inexpensive, they do have a tendency to dent easily.
  • Fibreglass: This type isn’t a good choice for cold climates since they don’t have good insulation properties, and they have a tendency to break easily.
Source: Hao Son Constructions

When you finally turn to aesthetics, you will be pleasantly surprised by your options. Even standard doors these days are stylish options, as well as being the most economic choice. If you choose to have your garage door completely custom made, it will definitely make a statement on your home, but it might cost you a chunk of change as well. A good middle ground is to choose a semi-custom garage door. This uses standard materials and style options, and you also have your choice of sizes and panel inserts to make it your own.

Manual or automatic?

You will want to decide if a manual or automatic door is the best choice for you. You can find an automatic system for practically any door, but this will cost more money. These can be retrofitted for existing doors or installed on new doors, and are certainly more convenient. An automatic door remote can be connected to a home alarm system, so opening or closing the door turns the alarm on or off automatically. A more logical (and cheaper) solution is to buy the garage door and automatic system together as a package.

Safety & security

One of the most important things a residential garage door must do is offer protection. When you consider purchasing a particular door, make sure that the materials used and the way the door is built for your home security and that there aren’t any weak points that may attract burglars. Also, don’t forget that safety is the most important thing and you should teach your family how to stay safe around the garage door and how to operate it safely.

Check with local council

When building a new garage, you’ll need to double-check local restrictions and what the specifications of an allowable garage might be. Check with your local council or permitting office to determine restrictions and permits before committing any time or money into the project. Permits most often apply for a large garage, one that encroaches on a current easement, one that is attached to a home or one that fails to meet the minimum setback requirements.

Categories
Design & decor

14 ways to decorate and maintain a small-spaced Airbnb listing

Managing an Airbnb rental is a great way to earn extra income, especially if you have an unoccupied property available.

Although Airbnb rentals are a great way of earning extra income, it doesn’t mean that it easy to do as it requires quite a bit of maintenance and involvement on your part. You have to make sure that you decorate your space to make it more attractive to a range of people.

If you have a smaller space for your Airbnb, you might be thinking that it’s harder to make it stand out from the crowd. Nonetheless, having an excellent decorating idea that you can maintain can help give you a good standing on Airbnb.

Below are some tips that you can try out for yourself:

1. Keep the floor clean

If you have a small space in your Airbnb, then a simple way of making sure that the space doesn’t feel too crowded is by cleaning the floor.

Sure, a great decoration can definitely liven up a space, but if you have little to work with, you should make sure that you have enough working space available.

One way you can create more space is simply by reducing the pieces of furniture or appliances that you have on the floor and creating a minimalistic look.

2. Focus on lights

Another simple solution that you can try to make your Airbnb space look more spacious is the lights.

The right lighting, especially if it’s natural, can help widen a space and has the illusion that you have a bigger space.

If you don’t have much access to natural light, then you should make sure that the lighting fixtures installed don’t get in the way of your floor as mentioned before. Wall sconces are a great choice of lighting for a small space. 

3 hanging white pendant lights in a room with windows leading to a beach.
The impact of natural lighting on display / Source: Visualising Interiors

3. Add mirrors

Another simple decoration that you can use that will help you give the illusion of a wider and bigger space inside your Airbnb is a series of mirrors.

You don’t have to go and install a lot of mirrors but be tactical so that you don’t look like you have a circus-themed Airbnb (unless that’s what you the vision you’re looking to create).

Excellent placement of a mirror is right in front of a big window that brings in natural light. Doing so allows the mirror to reflect the light all around the room.

4. Have indoor plants and flowers

You don’t have to add too many trinkets and installations to make your Airbnb feel decorated and appealing to your guests.

A simple addition of indoor plants and flowers can beautify your space without costing you too much money. Not to mention that it doesn’t take up too much space.

The great thing about indoor plants is that it helps improve the air quality inside your Airbnb, and at the same time it serves as a decoration too.

White lounge room with L shaped lounge, coffee table and indoor plants.
Indoor plants are aesthetic and cost-effective / Source: Visualising Interiors

5. Consider multi-purpose and folding furniture

Since you have a small space in your Airbnb, you want to be able to serve your guests without having to sacrifice comfort and convenience.

The key to being able to balance both is by having furniture that are space savers or, at the very least, furniture that has more than one purpose. For example, you could have a set of stairs that also serve as a cabinet, or you can have a sofa that becomes a bed.

6. Consider a hanging chair

If you want to decorate your Airbnb uniquely, then consider adding a hanging chair inside the living room.

It will be an eye-catching and attractive set in your living. Also, a hanging chair is a great space saver while offering a sitting arrangement at the same time.

7. Play with scale

Just because you have a small Airbnb doesn’t mean that your space should be filled with trinkets and tiny decorations.

It’s important to balance your big decorations in the small space, or you might end up making your Airbnb look smaller than it actually is. 

8. Keep it cozy

The great thing about having a small space is that it can be a lot homier than bigger and more expansive spaces.

You should capitalise on that fact by keeping things cozy and decorating your space with a lot of textures like plush.

A fluffy rug and soft blanket laid on top of your sofas are a great touch as well. It really makes the space feel like a second home.

9. Put your pantry on display

If you don’t have enough space in your Airbnb for a pantry, then why not have a shelving system? That way, it doesn’t occupy as much space as cabinets do.

For example, you can have a sturdy hook and hang baskets where you can put your essential grocery items that is usually going to be in the pantry.

10. Divide and conquer

If you want to divide certain areas in your Airbnb, using wise divisions allows you to do just that without making your space look crowded.

A great way to divide your space is by having rice paper room dividers all around that certain separate areas, but at the same time, it doesn’t crowd your Airbnb.

11. Clean as you leave

At Maid Sailors Airbnb Turnaround Service, we encourage our clients to advise their guests to clean the space itself. That way, it’s easier for you to clean your Airbnb. This is especially important for a quicker turnaround process in between immediate bookings.

12. Colour selection

It’s important to select the right texture and colours for cushions, throws and very importantly linen including doona covers, sheet and towels. Keep them simple not too much over the top prints.

Grey cushioned window seat with 3 pillows next to a small round coffee table.
Make the most of your small space with appropriate colour selections / Source: Little White Label

13. Make it personal

Leave a special check-in surprise for guests. It could be a bottle of wine or a grazing platter, fresh muffins or freshly baked bread and/or rolls and for that special occasion. Maybe a double pass to the local cinema and a voucher for a local Takeaway.

14. Entertaining areas

An entertaining area with books, games and jigsaw puzzles are great to have for guests.

Conclusion

Maintaining and decorating a small space can be a difficult task, especially if your goal is to create an attractive place to encourage guests to book your Airbnb rental.

Although it can be difficult it doesn’t mean it’s impossible. That’s why the tips above will definitely help you level up your Airbnb listing.

From having unique decorations in place to simple maintenance, there are plenty of things you can do that will make your small-spaced Airbnb listing more attractive to guests. Aside from the ones listed above, try and come up with your own ways of boosting your Airbnb or hire a professional interior designer to bring your vision to life.

Categories
Bathroom & laundry

A guide to choosing bathroom tiles

One of the biggest decisions during a bathroom renovation is tile selection. The proper choice of tile will determine your bathroom’s look, the ease of cleaning and maintenance, and your project budget Here are some of the key considerations when choosing the right tile for your bathroom. 

Source: Blue Leaf Bathware & Tiles

Types of bathroom tiles

With proper installation and sealing, any type of tile can be used in your bathroom: marble, granite, slate, sandstone, ceramic, porcelain, glass, metal, and even plastic. Tile varies not only in material, but also in size, colour and texture. The patterns and combinations are limited only by your imagination.

Before you get started, keep in mind that what you choose needs to be maintained properly. For example, if you choose very small tiles, realise that this will create extra grout lines, meaning more cleaning. If you choose whites or other light colours, this will mean more work keeping them clean looking. You may want to consider those tiles that are slip-resistant to help to keep you from slipping on the floor.

Bathroom design & style

The bathroom is a challenging area and any tile that you place in it needs to be able to meet some pretty stringent requirements. The tile has to be water-resistant, durable, as well as easy to clean and maintain. It should also be beautiful. You will find that these tiles can be used not just on the floors but on the walls of your home as well – you may even use border and feature tiles in the space.

What is your goal? Are you going for a traditional or funky retro look or an elegant retreat? The look and atmosphere you want in your bathroom will influence your choice of tile. For example, large glossy ceramic tiles wouldn’t suggest a cosy retreat, nor would mirrored tiles suit a traditional bathroom.

For style needs, though, there is much more available that can enhance the look of your space. You can choose various shapes to use in the space place. You can use a variety of materials, including glass, natural stone, and ceramic. You may want to use large tiles or very small mosaics. The options are endless.

Cleaning & maintenance

Traditional glass, porcelain, and glazed ceramic tile are uniquely suited for bathrooms because they are non-porous and resist moisture and mould. Clean often with a household cleaner suitable for tile, and your bathroom will look wonderful for many years.

Not all tile was originally designed for bathroom use. However, with proper regular sealing, any tile can be used in your bathroom. Use a cleaner that is compatible with the sealant. Non-traditional tile requires extra maintenance. If you are set on using exotic tile, consider it for a guest bathroom that will not see the traffic of the main family bathroom. Less use means less maintenance.

Source: Matrix Constructions Pty Ltd

Renovation budget

The driving force behind most renovations is budget. Tile ranges from inexpensive simple ceramic tiles to very expensive exotic stone tiles. Take careful measurements of your space, and determine how many tiles you need. Then, figure in an allowance for grout, adhesive, tools, and breakage. If your dream tile is out of your budget, you can wait for a sale, or look for an odd lot or discontinued line. Another option is to use a more common tile for most of the space and trim it out in the fancy tile. Again, your imagination and budget are your only limits.

What’s right for your space?

When choosing from all of these options, consider the space itself. When you choose larger tiles, you have fewer grout lights to fill in. This helps to make the space look larger. Perhaps your ceilings are very low. If you run the tiling in a vertical strip, perhaps using some feature tiles as well, this gives the appearance of height. It helps to change the perception of the room.

Selecting colours

The next consideration is the colouring. Neutral colours – like white, beige or cream – remain the common winner because it is easy to match with. However, you can use a range of options here depending what you prefer to see in this space. You may want to choose the bold colours found in glass mosaic tiles, placing these on just one wall in the bathroom. It will create a very appealing look. You can use bold colours in random locations throughout the space for a different type of appeal. Here’s some tips when selecting a colour for your tiles:

“Clean” looking colours: that is, those that don’t easily display dirt or other blemishes. Stark whites, blacks, and dark greys tend to show spills and stains, so it’s better to pick more neutral colours where possible to help cut down cleaning time.

Colours that create space: the right colours will help you create the illusion of having more space in a small room. Since the bathroom is generally one of the smallest rooms in the house, this is pretty important. In general, dark colours can close a space in, whilst light colours will create a more spacious feel. If you do want to use dark tiles, consider them as part of a feature or pattern, rather than the base.

Eye-catching colours: Opt for colours that are going to draw the eye to a major feature, like a beautiful freestanding bath, a shower stall, or a lovely mirror. This generally works well when the bathroom is filled with neutral colours, meaning that the coloured tiles being used around the feature are more striking.

Colours that create mood: Colour has an impact on the feel and mood of the bathroom, so consider what atmosphere you’re trying to create. Are you looking for a clean finish, a dramatic bathroom, or a relaxing retreat? Dramatic rooms will do well with bold colours, while classic neutral colours, like greys and whites are great for a clean-cut look. To create a feeling of calm, consider earthy tones, like greens, blues, yellows, and soft purples.

Guide to picking the right bathroom wall tiles

When remodeling your bathroom, you should give a lot of consideration to the type and pattern of wall tiles you want to use. Wall tiles can set the tone for the entire bathroom. Depending on what you choose, your bathroom can look simple, elegant or even fun. Here are some things to consider when picking out wall tiles.

Choose a Tile Material

There are many different wall-tile materials that you can choose from. Learn about the different types so that you can choose the one that fits your bathroom design, budget and lifestyle best.

  • Ceramic tiles are very popular because they are easy to clean, hold up well in high moisture environments and are inexpensive. They are available in hundreds of sizes, colours, and patterns.
  • Porcelain tiles stand up even better in high moisture environments than ceramic wall tiles, and they’re just as easy to keep clean. However, the extra durability comes with a steeper price. They are also available in hundreds of sizes, colours, and patterns.
  • Natural stone tiles are often used in designer bathrooms because they look so beautiful. The downside is that stone is porous and is prone to staining in high moisture environments. However, the application of a clear waterproof sealant can help to protect the stone.
  • Natural clay tiles have the same benefits and drawbacks of natural stone tiles. They look gorgeous but are prone to stains caused by moisture. However, just as with natural stone tiles, a clear waterproof sealant can protect clay tiles from moisture damage.
  • Glass tiles come in a wide variety of colours and designs, making them a great choice for colourful bathroom designs. Glass has a shiny, reflective quality not available in the other tile materials. Glass tiles hold up very well in moist environments and are easy to care for.
Source: HCR Renovation & Construction

Choose a Pattern

You can create a pattern by using either all of the same colour tile or tile in different colours. A design using only one colour and size of tile looks simple and elegant and focuses the attention on the bathroom fixtures. A patterned design using different-coloured or different-sized tiles draws attention to the walls and adds an additional layer of interest to the bathroom.

There are several ways you can create a wall tile design. Here are some ideas that are easy to do by yourself:

  • The easiest way to create a tile wall pattern is to purchase tiles that already have a pattern on them.
  • Plain tiles can be installed in simple pattens such as placing large tiles on one row, small tiles on the next row and repeating the pattern.
  • You can make a checkerboard pattern by alternating tile colours.

There are numerous designs that you can create with wall tiles, such as diamond patterns, but sophisticated designs require careful measurement and quite a bit of tile cutting. If you are not experienced at installing tile, hire a reputable tiler to help you out.

Categories
Design & decor

6 interesting small bathroom tile ideas

We all look forward to relaxing in our bathrooms after a busy and tiring day. Like most people, you may prefer a luxurious and spacious bathroom with beautiful tiles. Unfortunately, the majority of us own smaller bathrooms. Although it may seem like you can’t execute your dream bathroom if it is smaller, you can still have the luxury and comfort you require from your bathroom despite its size.

It can be overwhelming choosing the right tiles, as the market is flooded with many options. Here, My Home Zen Spa recommend their top tile picks to help transform your bathroom into a sanctuary.

1. Subway tile accents

If you’re looking for a versatile option, the subway tile accents are the best. Despite being modern, its design is stunning and never get outdated. What’s exciting about these tiles is the fact that they come in different colours, patterns, and get made with various materials. As a result, you get to choose what you like.

If you want your other bathroom elements to shine, you can get these tiles in a pure white. Are you the creative type? With these tiles, you can contrast your grout colours and help give a different look at your shower, bath, or faucet. You’ll find them easily at your local hardware store.

Subway tiles on the wall in a small bathroom / Source: Engage Construction Pty Ltd

2. Glass mosaic accents

Mosaic tiles are available in ceramic or stone, but for a bathroom that pops – try glass mosaic tiles. You can use them for a full wall, or use sparingly to create an interesting frame or accent. Mosaic tiles are practical versatile, water-resistant and come in a variety of colours and patterns. Flex your creative muscles by playing with accents in your bathroom. If you are just using it for a small feature, remember to purchase a few spare for down the road, just in case you can’t find the exact type again.

3. Large format tiles

Large-format tiles come with a bunch of benefits when used in a bathroom. You should consider these tiles if your bathroom is small, as they can make a small bathroom appear larger.

They cover a large area and are easy to clean because they are applied with fewer grout lines. Large format tiles also create an elegant aesthetic in your bathroom. Large tiles come in various designs for you to choose what you like, including 3-D and wood-look plank tiles.

Large format tiles can be a great option for small bathrooms / Source: Mrg Tiling

4. Bathroom wall tiles

Wall tile styles for bathrooms will excite you with their durability. Despite serving you for many years, maintaining them is easy, and they improve your bathroom’s appearance. Bathroom wall tile styles come in various forms. For example, contemporary or traditional, and modern, mid-century, or old-world. It all depends on your taste. The market is flooded with what you need. When choosing wall tiles for your bathroom, consider various combinations and patterns. This will not only improve your bathroom’s appearance but also blend well with your bathroom fittings and décor.

5. Shower tile styles

If your bathroom has a shower or tub, you should consider installing shower tiles. Shower tiles are an excellent choice as they are waterproof if sealed properly and can be cleaned very easily. These tiles can turn your bathroom into a beautiful showpiece. When planning to build or remodel your bathroom, always remember to put the tub or shower tiles into account.

6. Porcelein bathroom tiles

Porcelain bathroom tiles offer many benefits because they are strong and durable but easy to clean and look beautiful in most settings. In comparison to other styles of tiles, procelein tiles are strong and durable – being super thin, moulded, and then fired at a high temperature.

The glaze on these tiles that helps to lock out water to ensure that no damage occurs to the flooring structure. They also do not scratch, fade, and are easy to keep clean and don’t stain easily – meaning they’ll last over the long term. There are plenty of design options to choose from – from textured, natural or polished finished meaning they are versatile to work with whatever design you’re after.

Tile style tips for small bathrooms

You don’t have to match all your bathroom tiles, but ensure that they blend well with each other, from the walls, showers, tubs, to the floor. Mixing various tile styles in your bathroom can elevate the look into a spa-like. It is, therefore, essential to choose tile styles for your bathroom wisely.

If your bathroom is limited in space, try using the following tile tricks to make it feel more significant than its actual size.

  • Use one tile type on all your bathroom floor, wall, and ceiling. It will help open up some space. If you decide to switch your tile pathway up or down the wall, it may visually reduce the room. As a result, your bathroom may appear even smaller.
  • When using both paint and tiles on your bathroom walls, use similar colours. You may ask why; it will ease the transition from one location to another. Different colours create hard stops when transitioning from a particular space to another.
  • Put tiles in your bathroom’s ceiling. It is a perfect strategy that will help increase your bathroom’s height.
  • Neutral colours are very popular with most bathrooms, but you get free to use what you prefer. But be careful about how you use your bright, dark, and bold colours. You may need to avoid colours that will dull your bathroom and interfere with its visibility. If you are the colour person, try balancing the neutral and bright colours. Neutral colours are exceptional, and you can get creative when using them in your bathroom. Though one neutral colour is okay, try mixing them.
Categories
Walls & flooring

A guide to floating timber floors

What are floating timber floors?

Simply put, it’s a floor that is not attached in any way (e.g. by glue or nails) to the primary foundation. Floating timber floors have a “plug and go” quality in that they can be placed over the existing floor, concrete, tiles, plywood, particle floorboard, cork or tile in the home. Homeowners just have to ensure that the floor is even before placing the floating timber planks. Laying floating timber over existing flooring also provides an extra layer of noise insulation.

Source: F&F Constructions Pty Ltd

There are 2 types of floating timber floors, both of which have pros and cons:

  1. Artificial timber floors: Artificial floating timber flooring is basically a laminate veneer overlay. Laminates are constructed to look exactly like real hardwood and require lower maintenance and are generally cheaper. You aren’t able to sand or repolish them, but mots are designed to be scratch resistant.
  2. Solid timber floors: True floating timber flooring is a combination of hardwood pressed with a thicker fibreboard base. It comes finished, so adjusting for evenness is not a concern. If needed, it can be sanded down for a desired effect, but it is suggested not to do this too often due to the thinness of the natural wood on top. This option might be easier to clean and maintain – sanding and repolishing can help you remove minor damage and keep your floors looking new. However, the initial cost of the materials and installation is more expensive.

Regardless of the choice, both real and artificial floating timber flooring will arrive ready to install.

Benefits of floating floors

  • Easier to install. They can cover all types of flooring materials and easily create the look of timber.
  • It is available in a rich variety of colours suitable for all types of colour themes in offices as well as homes.
  • They are durable and often come with long warranties – usually 25 years or more.
  • There is no waiting period for using it after installation as there is no glue that needs to harden.
Source: JVK Building & Design

Can I install floating flooring myself?

One of the benefits of using floating flooring, is the huge cost savings compared to true professionally installed timber flooring. If you are a confident DIYer, you can always try out your construction skills and install them yourself! Timber flooring can add natural beauty to every room of your home, but is best used away from wet areas. You have your pick of wood types including cedar, oak and pine.  

Most of the time, these floors are easy to install. Instructions are often provided. You may need to purchase glue, underlay materials and trims for this product. Within just a few hours of installing it, this type of flooring is ready to be used.

Floating timber floors also offer flexibility, meaning that they have natural “give” to the wood. Because of this, you’ll need to ensure ample space between the flooring and the floating timber flooring to withstand the expansion due to humidity variations.

Over time, this reduces sagging and unattractive gaps that can sometimes form in other wood flooring. These floors are actually designed to have small gaps that give the wood room to expand and contract.

How to maintain your floating timber floors

A properly installed or finished floor can look beautiful, but it is the maintenance of the floor which may help the floor to retain its beauty. If you want to avoid your floor appearing distressed or worn out prematurely, you must consider maintenance work. It will keep the floor in tip-top condition. You can also use floor mats and protective pads to improve the looks and add to the life of the floors. Here are some important maintenance tips you can follow.

1. Keep a check over dirt and dust

Floating timber floor may develop dents and scratches when exposed to dust and dirt. It is important to consider a protective finish for the floors. You should keep the floors clean every time. A daily cleaning and maintenance schedule should be followed – with regular mopping, sweeping and vacuuming. This will keep the dirt, dust and grit away from the floors which means it won’t develop scratches and marks.

Stick to your cleaning routine you establish. However, it is always advisable to clean the engineered floors with a soft cleaner and mop, as any high density and acidic cleaner will surely corrode the layer of the floor.

2. Protect your timber floors

A wooden floor is suitable for almost any lifestyle. Wood is a natural flooring option which is ideal for areas experiencing high traffic. It is durable and sturdy as well. A bit of maintenance will increase its life further. You may prefer placing rugs and protective pads on the surface of the floors to prevent scratches. If you are using it for hallway, living room or entryway, you must make sure to protect the floor. Proper rugs and carpets can save the floor from damage due to wear and tear and prolong the life of the floor.

3. What type of finish is it?

Before you even opt for any maintenance schedule, you must think about the finishing it has. Each kind of wood finishing requires different sort of care and maintenance. Choose only the best product for the floor and determine the schedule of maintenance. Your wooden floor will appear beautiful for the years to come.

4. Bolster the finishing 

Hardwood floors are normally polished or coated with a special type of wax or varnish to restrict spills from seeping into the grains. But, it is unfortunate to learn that even the toughest of grains might not be able to withstand heavy traffic. You may cover the floors with the area rugs. This mainly applies to living room floors and the area adjacent to the exterior door.

Just like the other types of floors, even the hardwood floor has thermal expansion coefficient. This thermal expansion coefficient is affected by humidity. Boards of the floor can separate if there is too much humidity. To keep a check over the humidity level, you may use a dehumidifier.

By following the maintenance tips stated above, you can maintain your floating timber floor such that it lasts for ages. Besides frequent cleaning, you may also consider expert refinishing from time to time.

Categories
Building & renovations

Builder vs handyman: Who should you call?

Sometimes it’s tricky to work out who you need to hire when you need a job done. There are builders, architects, carpenters, tradespeople, handymen, labourers, and everything in between.

So, how do you know if your project requires the services of a builder or a handyman? Who’s going to turn your diamond in the rough house into your perfect home? Is it a builder vs a handyman? In other words, do you need a builder for a major renovation or would a handyman suffice for some quick fixes?

This article clarifies the difference between a handyman and a builder, helping you make the right decision for your home improvement needs.

What does a builder do?

finished modern open plan home
A builder is qualified to help with larger scale projects / Source: Jnaid & Sons

Building is a specialised field that requires a high level of education, experience, and training. You need a builder if you’re looking to do a large project such as building a new home, doing a major renovation, or building an extension.

A builder’s job is not only to provide a physical structure. They also need to know the legalities and regulations for doing so and ensure everything is in place, such as plans, applications, and permits, before any work is carried out.

Note that a builder isn’t necessarily an engineer or an architect; they may hire an engineering or architectural firm, however, if necessary.

Recently, sustainability and green building practices, such as energy-efficient construction, are increasingly becoming important in the Australian building industry. Builders need to upskill to new building practices in light of this movement.

What is a handyman?

white modern kitchen
A handyman can help with jobs that require skill, but not necessarily a qualification Source: Complete Maintenance & Property Repairs

There are always jobs around the home that need to be done. Some things you might feel confident in tackling yourself, for others you may need some help. For these jobs, hiring a handyman can be a great option.

Basically, a handyman is a person who is ‘handy’ or ‘skilful’ with basic repairs or minor renovations and is easily available to perform common household projects, installations, and maintenance. These are mostly jobs that require skill, but not necessarily an extensive qualification to perform. Handymen have a variety of skills and are usually available without much notice.

You might need several things done at once, like painting a room, fixing a broken tile, or putting together a piece of furniture. A handyman’s skills can cover these in a short space of time at short notice.

Builder vs handyman: Know who to call

Understanding the differences between builders and handymen is crucial when deciding who to hire for your home project. Let’s examine these professions in terms of their skill sets, project types, costs, responsibilities, and regulatory requirements.

In terms of skill set and expertise

kids playhouse in backyard
A handyman can do a variety of odd jobs, including erecting kids’ playhouses / Source: Inner City Property Solutions

Builder skills are typically broader and deeper, most of them related to construction and renovation. They have extensive knowledge of building codes, structural engineering principles, and project management. Builders are equipped to handle complex, large-scale projects that require coordinating multiple trades.

Handymen, on the other hand, have a diverse set of general skills covering various aspects of home maintenance and repair. While they may not have the know-how in any single area that a niche tradesperson would, their versatility allows them to efficiently handle a wide array of smaller assignments.

In terms of project types

Builders are best suited for:

  • New home construction
  • Major renovations or home extensions
  • Structural changes to existing buildings
  • Large-scale commercial projects
  • Projects requiring multiple subcontractors

On the other hand, a typical handyman services list includes:

  • Minor maintenance and repairs
  • Small-scale home improvements
  • Basic carpentry work and small building jobs, like erecting sheds
  • Basic plumbing and electrical work
  • Painting and decorating
  • Prefabricated item assembly, such as furniture assembly
  • Other odd jobs around the house and maintenance work

In terms of responsibilities

Builders take on comprehensive project management roles. They’re responsible for:

Handymen are generally responsible for:

  • Completing specific tasks or repairs
  • Providing their own tools
  • Advising homeowners on simple maintenance issues
  • Recommending when more specific help is needed
  • Advising homeowners on do’s and don’ts regarding renovations and home maintenance

In terms of cost

Builders generally charge higher rates due to their expertise and the complexity of the projects they manage. Their fees often include costs for subcontractors, materials, and project management.

Handymen typically charge hourly or flat rates for their services. They’re often more cost-effective for smaller jobs that don’t require a particular skill set or large-scale planning.

In terms of licencing and regulations

a homeowner shaking hands with a handyman
Ask friends and relatives for a handyman or builder recommendations | Source: iStock

Licencing requirements vary by location, but builders must be licensed, bonded, and insured. They must pass exams and demonstrate considerable experience in the field. This is why builders are often costlier than handymen.

Builder certification may vary across states and territories. Some common builder certifications and qualifications across Australia include:

The specific requirements vary by state and territory, but generally involve completing relevant vocational education and training (VET) courses, gaining practical experience, and applying for a builder’s licence through the regulatory body in each jurisdiction. For example, applying to the Western Australian Building Commission for a licence if the builder is in Western Australia.

Meanwhile, some jurisdictions require a basic handyman licence for handymen, but further qualifications and insurance requirements are usually less stringent. However, for certain types of work (e.g., electrical or plumbing), they may need specific trade licences, extensive experience, and demonstrable various skills.

Always check your local regulations to ensure any professional you hire meets the necessary legal requirements for the work they’ll be performing.

Build your dream home

When it comes to home improvements, picking between a builder and a handyman isn’t just about project size—it’s about matching skills to your needs. Builders excel at major renovations and complex constructions, while handymen are ideal for smaller repairs and maintenance.

Builders manage large-scale projects from start to finish, handling permits and ensuring code compliance. Their higher costs reflect this comprehensive service. Handymen offer affordability and versatility for those everyday household fixes and minor upgrades.

Whether you’re planning a complete home transformation or tackling a list of repairs, calling in professionals can save time, stress and potentially costly mistakes.

Next time you spot a home project, ask yourself: Does this need a builder’s comprehensive skills or a handyman’s versatile touch? Make the right call, and watch your home improvement plans come to life with the perfect pro for the job.

FAQs on builder vs handyman

What is the highest-paying handyman job?

The highest-paying handyman jobs often involve special skills or niche markets. In general, the more impressive the handyman’s qualifications and credentials, the higher they can charge. Handymen specialising in high-end home renovations or luxury property maintenance can command premium prices. Those with electrical or plumbing licences can also earn significantly more, as they can legally perform more complex tasks.

What are building and construction skills?

Building and construction skills encompass various technical abilities essential for creating and maintaining structures. These include proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, knowledge of various building materials and their applications, and mastery of construction techniques.

Practical skills involve carpentry, bricklaying, concreting, plastering, and roofing, but technical skills are also essential, such as understanding building codes and safety regulations. Builders also need to be proficient with construction tools and equipment, both manual and power-operated.