The Top 5 Misconceptions in Construction that could save you heaps of money
If you're a first-time developer, a homeowner, or a builder working to keep projects on time and budget, construction myths can end up costing you thousands or more.
Here are the top 5 misconceptions that could save you serious money if you know the truth upfront:
1. Concrete Slabs vs Timber Flooring Structures
Misconception: Concrete slabs are more expensive and take longer to complete than raised timber floor structure.
Reality: Whilst raised floors are good for sloped sites, they require more intricate engineering design, and a significant loss of thermal properties. Whilst concrete slabs can be more cost effective on flat sites, require less intricate engineering, provide better thermal properties and a simpler form of construction.
2. Insulation installation quality vs product quality
Misconception: The higher the insulation rating, the better performance you will have.
Reality: Effective placement and installation quality of insulation provides far better performance than an expensive, higher rating insulation installed poorly. Skimping on the installation to save money can undo good design. A well-sealed, insulated home can reduce the need for expensive air-conditioning systems.
3. Colorbond is cheap roofing
Misconception: Colorbond is seen as the budget option compared to roof tiles.
Reality: Cost of colorbond roofing is often more expensive than installed roof tiles. Especially when you factor in sarking, flashing, and more complex detailing. Whilst architecturally colorbond may be more suitable for the design outcome, it is not a cheaper roofing system, at least not cheaper than roof tiling.
4. Brick veneer vs full brick construction
Misconception: Brick veneer construction is cheaper than full brick construction
Reality: The main saving in a brick veneer construction is the first-floor flooring structure. However, costs will increase for additional posts required for large cantilevered sections and CFC flooring systems needed for waterproofing wet areas such as bathrooms and balconies. These also are more problematic with the settlement of the building and can lead to very expensive repairs. Furthermore, if the first floor is a concrete slab than the only savings is in the internal load bearing wall system. The timber wall framing will be requiring an internal lining such as plasterboard. Whilst this is slightly cheaper than common brick that is rendered, when selling the property the purchaser generally would expect to pay less for a property with a brick veneer, plasterboard lined internal wall in lieu of a full brick rendered walling system.
5. Cladded facades are cheap
Misconception: Cladded facades are cheaper than rendering
Reality: Cost of cladding facades is more often than not more expensive than a rendered brick façade, or better yet, a well chosen face brick façade. Cladding systems require sarking, and extra flashing as well as additional gapping and external durable painting systems. Whereas, a common brick rendered façade requires less flashing and is cheaper to install. A well chosen brick will be cheaper than cladded facades and rendered brick facades. Choose a brick under $1.5 per brick and see the difference!
Whether you're building a duplex, renovating a family home, developing townhouses, or just starting your first property project, knowledge is profit.
Avoid falling into these common misconceptions, and you'll keep your budget in mind without compromising on quality.
At BEAU Architecture, we help builders, homeowners, and developers make smart, informed decisions.
Need expert advice on your next project? Let’s chat.
BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
02 9168 8800
www.beauarchitecture.com.au/contact-us
info@beauarchitecture.com.au
Have a question? Let us know in the comments👇