When building a new home, the NZ Building Code requirements must be met. Remember these are minimum standards and we strongly recommend that a new house build should aim to achieve well above Code. As a guide, Homestar have assessed that a new home built to meet the NZ Building Code rates at about a 3 or 4 star (out of a possible 10).
With good design it is easy to attain a level 6 Homestar rating which gives the best return for the money spent. Obviously going to a higher rating is fantastic, but that comes at a cost.
Today we look at Insulation.
Put in as much as possible. It can be difficult (or even impossible in some areas) to add more later. It is essential that the insulation is fitted well, with no gaps or difficult cavities left out. Concrete floor slabs should have perimeter insulation to stop stored heat escaping. While worthwhile, it is not as important to have it under the slab itself (unless the floor is heated, in which case it is essential). Timber floors should have insulation tightly fitting between the joists and preferably also have polythene on the ground to prevent moisture rising from the ground into the building. For walls, consider the most dense available for the wall frame thickness. Even better if 140 (old 6’x2’) thick framing is used as you can get more bulk insulation fitted. For the roof, the insulation is usually installed just above the ceiling. It’s best if a double layer is installed to cover over gaps.
Framings up and building wrap on. Next roofing, cladding and windows......it’s starting to take shape! Keep and eye on progress as things are changing weekly.
The Resene/ADNZ regional design awards will be announced on 10th July. The entries will be on display 9am-5pm from the 13th - 23rd July at the Smarter Building Centre, 45b Te Roto Drive, Paraparaumu.
Come in and have a look at some outstanding architectural projects in the residential, interiors and commercial fields.