Tag: boral

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Architecture Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

Hot trend: Timber cladding is having a moment

Given the popularity of Modernist-inspired architecture, we’re so used to seeing sharp edges and hostile materials in home design – concrete, steel and myriad other industrial finishes. And I believe that it’s for this reason that timber cladding, with its softening effect, has been steadily gaining momentum as a trend. “Timber cladding can suit a traditional or contemporary home design, complementing other exposed building materials such as concrete and brick,” says Boral Timber national sales and distribution manager Leon Travis

“The adaptability of timber cladding can make it a material of choice across anything from interior and exterior walls and fences to sheds and garages. It may be installed vertically or horizontally to add character to a property. Words like ‘shiplap’ have become buzzwords among renovators both locally and internationally. Shiplap is simply the name of a timber cladding profile that’s proving popular as a feature timber,” says Leon.

“Boral hardwood timber cladding showcases the beauty of popular Australian timbers, including blackbutt and spotted gum, and is an economical finish for both new and old buildings,” says Leon.

Aside from bringing warmth, and a striking aesthetic, to the exterior of a home, timber cladding is also highly adaptable to Australia’s harsh weather conditions and carries energy efficiency benefits too. Timber has air pockets that create a natural barrier to heat and cold, thus forming an insulation layer around a home, and can even help reduce energy bills too.

And for those worried about termites, some timber species are better than others. “Forming a unique feature of many architecturally designed commercial and residential buildings, blackbutt cladding in particular is often chosen due to the species’ naturally termite resistant properties and fire resistance. Its attractive colouring also creates a blank canvas for achieving a custom stained finish,” says Leon.

Photography: Serena Pearce/Code Lime Photography

For more | Three affordable ways to transform your home with timber

 

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Design Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT Shopping

Pre-patterned pavers: A cost-efficient way to add style to your backyard

Landscape design is on the up! Long gone are basic backyards with overgrown weeds, now outdoor spaces are a big part of the home; a place to relax, work and entertain.

A great way to update your garden on the cheap is with pre-patterned pavers. Subtle and stylish, they add a creative element to your outdoor space and a modern texture underfoot that needs little styling.

Available from Boral, the Cloisters range is offered in a pack of three unpatterned pavers and one patterned paver with geometric lines, to add instant dimension and visual interest. The large format pavers are available in Ivory and Slate Grey, which are ideal for creating a minimalist space that is easy to decorate and update as the seasons change. These tones provide a perfect base for bright cushions or soft outdoor lighting.

The Cloisters range also includes pavers for steps and garden edging for a complete outdoor and garden design.

For more information on Boral’s paving range.

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Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

How to: Select the right decking timber

Spring renovation season has arrived and many homeowners are turning their attention to revitalising outdoor areas ahead of summer entertaining. Installing a timber deck can add an attracting and practical backdrop for days spent alfresco.

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With a number of decking options to choose from, Leon Travis, national sales and distribution manager at Boral Timber, offers some tips for choosing decking timbers.

Selecting decking timber

Choosing decking timber largely comes down to personal preference. Australian hardwood species, such as Blackbutt, Spotted Gum or River Reds are a durable option for outdoor spaces and offer high density, toughness, colour spect rum and natural beauty. A species’ Janka rating is used to identify its hardness – the higher the rating, the greater the hardness. It is important to consider a timber species durability rating for outdoor applications.

Timber is rated for in-ground durability and above-ground durability, from Class 1 (the most durable) to Class 4 (the least durable). This provides guidelines as to which species to choose for the area where decking will be installed. For example, a fully exposed area with high moisture (such as in a wet or tropical climate) may require a Class 1 (above ground) timber such as Ironbark, Tallowwood, Spotted Gum or Blackbutt.

Blackbutt and Spotted Gum species have fire resisting properties, making them suitable for homes in bushfire prone areas. Commercial decking products are ideal for those who want to achieve a more industrial look. Boral’s range of commercial 135 x 32mm decking boards boast a greater load capacity than standard decking, offering a strong and durable option for outdoor living and entertaining spaces. The boards can be fixed with large stainless steel bugle screws, which complement the size and strength of the decking and are consistent with the look and feel of a contemporary commercial space.

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Building a deck 

When it comes to building a deck, it’s best to leave it to a professional. Consulting a licensed builder, architect or engineer can help to ensure all building codes and Australian Standards are adhered to. In addition, depending on the scope of the deck, detailed plans and building approvals may be required.

Those constructing a deck in bush-fire prone areas should consult Australian Standard AS3959: Construction of Buildings in Bush Fire Prone Areas. Local councils will be able to assist with information on the relevant regulations.

Maintaining a timber deck

Homeowners can help to preserve the colour and improve the life of a deck by regularly cleaning and maintaining it. If applying specialised cleaning products, loose dirt or garden residue should be swept away before. By simply sanding and coating exposed surfaces with a decking finish, homeowners can help to restore the existing deck to its original appearance.

For more information click here.

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RENO ADDICT

First stained engineered flooring featuring Australian timber

Lovers of European-inspired stained wood flooring can now get the look with home-grown Australian hardwood species. The new contemporary stained range from Boral is a first of its kind, featuring local (and certified sustainable) Blackbutt and Spotted Gum timbers.

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High quality, and easy to install, the metallon boards are inspired by the aesthetics of precious metals, transforming the earthy beauty of Australian hardwoods into the colours of Copper, Tungsten, Pewter, Cobalt and Titanium.

“Stained engineered floors are extremely popular and when matched with the natural beauty of Australian species, prove to be a versatile and multi-dimensional timber flooring solution that aligns with evolving Australian architecture and design trends,” said Leon Travis, national sales and distribution manager at Boral Timber.

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Using the click-lock installation system, the hard-wearing Blackbutt and Spotted Gum boards are pre-finished for minimal fuss and mess. The boards can be sanded back for a more natural finish or re-stained.

Prices start at $114.38 per m2 (not including installation). Click here for more info.

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Architecture Design Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

Is decking the answer for inner city dwellers tight on space?

For the many inner city dwellers squeezed for space a well-designed deck may be the answer to getting the most from outdoor areas. Decking is a versatile and durable option for creating comfortable outdoor zones, and with proper planning and design a deck will form a natural connection to indoor areas.

Boral Timber Spotted Gum Henley Deck (low res)

Leon Travis from Boral Timber offers the following advice for urban homeowners planning a deck:

1. For a smoother transition from the home’s interior, consider a decking timber species that is no darker than interior flooring. Timber is simple to treat and darken at a later stage if desired; however a naturally dark timber cannot be lightened if homeowners change their mind. Also, consider the direction of interior flooring. Installing timber decking boards accordingly helps to maintain consistent design and flow from indoors to out. Blackbutt species is a popular choice and is available in flooring and decking boards.

Boral decking - New England Oak species

2. When choosing timber it is important to bear in mind that only certain species adapt well to decking. Australian hardwood decking is well suited to the Australian climate — from the suburbs to the city.

3. The size of the deck will also contribute to how practical it is. Will it fit a table and chairs, a barbecue, a herb garden or serve as a safe children’s play area? For year round use, consider a weather or shade cover, such as a retractable awning or more permanent shelter, depending on the aspect of the home and how much exposure to the sun it receives at different times of the day. Remember, the angle of sun will also change from winter to summer.

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4. If space is limited consider how the area beneath the deck can be used. Depending on the deck’s elevation it can be designed to serve as a functional storage space for outdoor furniture, garden supplies or sporting equipment.

5. Designing and installing a highly functional urban deck can be a complex undertaking, so using a licensed builder is recommended.

For more information.

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Architecture Before & Afters Design Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT Shopping

How a new roof transformed a home from mess to manor house

Before

Sitting vacant for 15 years, a once abandoned sandstone cottage in Sydney’s Hunter’s Hill has been given a new lease of life, transformed from its original, derelict state into a stunning home.

Before
Before

Featuring a heavily deteriorated shingle cedar roof, with exposed sarking and damaged timber beam supports, it was in need of significant attention. Internally it was dated and needed a new ceiling, walls, bathroom, kitchen and doors.

After
After

Wanting to retain the historic design of the home, architect Sam Tadros of Manor House Design Australia, focused on maintaining the integral parts of the home. “It’s rare that homes like this are built anymore, with this level of detail and character. As part of this vision I was focused on maintaining the design scheme of the external perimeter and existing structural elements, most importantly the sandstone walls.”

However, what needed to go immediately was the roof, which as a result of the home being sunken from the road is one of the first things you see on approach. “I considered a number of roofing options, but the decision ultimately came down to the aesthetics that complemented the sandstone and were the best value at the time. I chose Boral Terracotta Shingle roof tiles in the dark toned Eclipse to complement the yellow sandstone.”

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After

Aesthetically speaking, terracotta is a natural material and as a result has some variation in shape and colour to add texture and depth. This avoids the look of having one big flat roof section and is softer on the eyes. This is difficult to achieve with ceramic or metal roofing, which has a very solid, manufactured and consistent look. The proportion of the tiles, being smaller than sheet metal or large slabs of slate, also worked perfectly with the size of the sandstone blocks.

After
After

Other important factors for Sam were flexibility and cost-efficiency: “I wanted to retain the original copper down pipes and gutters – copper is for life – so I had to select a roofing material that could be integrated with these. As part of the project, additional timber beams were required to support the extra weight of the terracotta tiles, however even factoring in those costs, terracotta fell within budget and proved a cost-effective option.”

For more information.

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Design DIY Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

6 ideas for outdoor timber screening projects

The addition of timber screening is a smart, simple and relatively quick way to create inviting lifestyle zones outside. Along with the practical benefits of providing privacy and shade, screening can also add visual interest to an outdoor design scheme.

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But first what is timber screening? Timber screening is the vertical application of timber decking boards, typically, with a gap between boards to allow light and breezes to filter through, maintaining a connection to the surrounding environment. As an organic material, timber screening integrates seamlessly with landscaping and provides a link between natural and built environments. Australian hardwoods are a popular choice for screening, as they suit a range of landscapes.

Below Boral share six ideas for timber screening projects:

1. Frame barbecue and dining areas, or reading nooks with seating, with timber screening to create separate and sheltered spaces.

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2. Disguise unsightly walls, fences or neighbours’ sheds with the addition of timber screening built to size.

3. Use timber screening as a base for a feature wall to display herbs or potted colour.

Boral Timber_RR_Wall

4. Position timber screening alongside a north-facing home office, nursery or bedroom window to help minimise excess sunlight and keep the room cooler in summer.

5. Maintain privacy by adding timber screening in outdoor areas that are overlooked by neighbouring properties or can be seen from the street.

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6. Incorporate timber screening into landscape design. It can provide protection while plants are still growing and a natural backdrop as plants reach full height.

For more information visit Boral.

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Design DIY Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT Shopping

How to choose a roof colour: 5 tips

Creating street appeal for any home is about achieving the right balance of style and exterior colours and tones. As the largest surface area of a home, the finish of the roof can make or break this balance.

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Boral’s Mark Dell offers the following tips for homeowners choosing a roof colour:

·        Research the architectural style and colour characteristics of the home’s design. For example, Federation homes draw on the traditional reds of terracotta roof tiles, contemporary home designs may use darker flat roof tiles to accentuate straight lines and sharp angles, and Cape Cod inspired homes typically feature grey or brown toned roof tiles.
·        Consider the surrounding natural environment. Lighter toned roof tiles may better suit coastal areas, while earthy tones complement the Australian bush.
·        Streamlining roof colour with neighbours’ homes can create a cohesive streetscape and enhance overall exterior appeal.
·        Consult the local council on roof colour and design guidelines, as this will ultimately influence the building approvals process.
·        When selecting roof colour and finish, consider the guttering and fascia colours. As a guide, look for colours that are in harmony or contrast. For example, complement white fascia and guttering with light grey roof tiles, or create a striking contrast with deep red or black roof tiles.

To help homeowners and renovators make a sky high statement, building materials specialist Boral has refreshed its palette of concrete roof tiles. The addition of lighter greys and earthy tones adds depth to their existing range of darker toned concrete roof tiles.

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“Over the course of building or renovating, homeowners will make hundreds of decisions about the colours and finishes of building materials. As the largest single surface area of a home, the roof is an important architectural feature and choosing its colour and profile can help to shape the broader exterior design vision,” says Mark, national sales and marketing manager at Boral Roofing and Masonry East.

“The refreshed range of Boral concrete roof tiles now includes a full and carefully chosen spectrum of colours and tones to simplify the roofing decision for homeowners. Catering for the emerging interest in lighter roofing and the lasting trend of dark roofs, the range offers a sophisticated and relatively cost-effective roofing solution.”

For more information on the new range of Boral concrete roof tiles, visit www.boral.com.au/roofing or call 1300 134 002.

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RENO ADDICT The Block

Stop press! Parquetry flooring makes a surprise comeback

As viewers of The Block can attest, parquetry flooring is back and in a big way. But while most of us would never have imagined its return, the trend has shed its stuffy associations and emerged with a much more contemporary feel.

Boral Timber Parquetry (herringbone) - Ironbark

“A popular feature in historic and grand ballrooms, parquet flooring has reappeared as a contemporary flooring favourite, as interior design trends shift toward creating individual and personalised spaces,” says Clinton Skeoch, market development manager at Boral Timber.

From bold geometric patterns to herringbone and everything in between, people love the bespoke nature of the material. Combining similarly toned tree species, rather than contrasting dark and light timbers, is a hot look at the moment in particular.

“Parquetry flooring allows homeowners to combine colours and shapes to create something that reflects their unique character and style,” says Clinton.

On a practical note, parquetry flooring allows you to fix spot damage by replacing just the affected timber blocks making it both stylish and practical too! Boral parquetry is available in Blackbutt, Sydney Blue Gum, Grey Ironbark and Spotted Gum timbers.

See boral for more.

 

 

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Design DIY Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT Shopping

6 DIY projects to spruce up your outdoor space

Before the wet weather and cold front arrives, revamp your outdoor area and ensure it’s well protected for the upcoming season. These simple DIY projects for the backyard and home entrance will be sure to give your home the spruce up it so desperately needs.

Timber screening for extra privacy

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Create private spaces, add shade and disguise unsightly walls with timber screening. Install Boral Timber Australian hardwood decking vertically for a smart, simple and relatively quick makeover. Leave a gap between boards to allow sunlight and breezes to filter through, maintaining a connection to the natural environment.

Old treasures, new look

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Give outdoor metal fixtures and furniture a fresh new look with Hammerite Direct to Rust Metal Paint. Whether it’s a rusting gate or neglected outdoor setting, this easy to use paint provides a strong coating for long-lasting protection with it’s anti-corrosive formulation. It is a ‘one tin’ solution, performing as a primer, undercoat and top coat all in one – saving time and money. Available in a range of colours and in a smooth or hammered finish.

Protect and rejuvenate

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Ensure the timber deck and outdoor furniture are well prepped and protected for winter with Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro finish. This quick-drying water based exterior timber finish provides good durability and flexibility. It’s microporous formula allows the timber to breathe while repelling unwanted moisture making it UV and weather resistant. Available in five stains, the transparent finish accentuates the natural character and colour of the timber.

Outdoor loungingScreen Shot 2015-06-04 at 10.12.24 amThe King Living outdoor collections offer durable and flexible solutions for outdoor entertaining and relaxing. Constructed using marine grade materials, these designs offer superior corrosion resistance and can withstand temperature fluctuations, salt water, wind and rain. Waterproof cushion covers, vents in seating and meshed, in-built storage areas also help to release water from rain to prevent mildew. King Living offers a range of outdoor furniture that delivers uncompromising style, comfort and outdoor practicality.

Backyard sanctuary

SlimWall Designer Fence (1)

Slimwall is a contemporary architectural fencing solution for modern outdoor environments. Featuring proven acoustic benefits, Slimwall will block urban noise four times more effectively than common fencing products, bringing a sense of quiet tranquillity to the backyard. The panels are quick and easy to install making a new fence the perfect weekend DIY project.

Create an entrance with impact

Boral Cultured Stone_Brigalow St case study 5

A home’s entrance area can make all the difference in creating a welcoming and memorable first impression. Add depth and texture with Boral Cultured Stone cladding. Engineered to look like traditional stone, it is cost-effective, easy to install and can be retrofitted to existing homes.

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Design RENO ADDICT Shopping

3 tips for choosing timber flooring

Timber flooring adds warmth and versatility to home interiors and is a steadfast design choice. Ideal for single room makeovers, apartment projects and whole home flooring applications, there is a magnitude of timber products on the market. So how to choose? Here are my three easy tips that will ensure you get the best timber flooring for your needs.

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  1. When selecting a timber product, homeowners must first consider which rooms the timber will be located in and what type of surface it will be laid over. The subfloor will determine the timber flooring options available and may also impact decisions about the timber’s hardness rating, wear-ability and colour. Solid strip timber flooring is nailed down over bearers and joists or to battens on concrete, while solid strip overlay flooring or parquetry is glued to a concrete floor or directly onto plywood or existing timber floors.
  2. Choosing colours and width of timber flooring comes down to personal taste. The cream to pale brown tones of Blackbutt timber makes it a popular choice for Australian homes, and can be used for both internal flooring and decking for a seamless indoor/outdoor flow.
  3. It’s important to be thorough when shopping for a timber flooring solution. Homeowners should be clear on what grade and species they are buying, as there are variations between suppliers.

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There are a few key terms homeowners should be aware of when buying timber flooring:

  • Species refers to the type of hardwood and is often a guide to colour. There are a wide range of Australian species available for timber flooring, from light browns to deep reds.
  • Grade refers to the level of natural features in the wood, such as gum veins, spirals, burls and insect trails which give timber floors a unique character.
  • Width refers to the width of each board and can affect the overall look of the room once the flooring is installed. Homeowners will need to decide whether they want wide boards or narrow boards.

Lastly, it’s important to be mindful of the properties of timber flooring and care for it appropriately. As a natural product, timber flooring responds to environmental influences such as extended sun exposure and dampness. Timber flooring is not recommended for bathrooms, for example.

— Clinton Skeoch is the national market development manager at Boral Timber, who have just released a new range of Engineered Flooring, which combines the sophistication of Australian hardwoods with the convenience of pre-finished boards.