Features
Each Build offers in-depth insights into two topics of interest to the building and construction industry.
Feature section: Exteriors
While bricks have long been top of the popularity list for house cladding, weatherboards have caught up fast in recent years. Whatever the choice, it is important to be sure that not only does the building exterior look good but the system used is durable and weathertight and meets Building Code requirements.
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Feature section: Managing projects
With so many competing interests - the client, the engineer, the designer and the
builder - construction projects are complex. That’s why good communciation between all parties is key.
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Feature section: Medium-density housing
The big story in residential building is the growth in medium-density housing. This provides both opportunities and challenges for builders as these projects will require companies to upscale and do some things differently.
Feature section: Hazards
The built environment can be a dangerous place full of hazards that need to be managed. From potential exposure to hazardous materials such as asbestos, silica dust and solvents, to natural hazards such as earthquakes and floods, these can wreak havoc on our health and buildings.
Feature section: Industry roles
An industry as diverse as building and construction has many players involved. Knowing who does what and how the puzzle fits together is a good place to start in understanding how the industry works.
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Feature section: Technology
Technology is bringing rapid changes to the way we work. Drones, robots and 3D printing are just some of the ways disruptive new technologies are impacting on the industry. In the home, the Internet of Things is automating tasks that were previously laboriously manual.
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Feature section: Ventilation
Just what do Kiwis do to get rid of stuffy indoor air? BRANZ is using science to find the answers and help improve the indoor air quality of homes.
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Feature section: Health and Safety
Big changes to building and construction industry health and safety regulations are on the way. Company owners would be wise to start preparing now by understanding, planning for and getting ready to implement the changes.
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Feature section: Internal moisture
Why are so many New Zealand homes cold and damp? Although controlling moisture, then ensuring adequate ventilation, heating and insulation sounds straightforward, too many homes still have internal moisture problems.
Feature section: Accountability
A downside of the building boom is that skills shortages can lead to hasty, substandard work. In Auckland the council is working to tackle the problem. What’s needed, some say, is for people to regain a sense of pride in their work.
