By Bruce Sedcole
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1 August 2022, Build 191
The BRANZ helpline has received many calls asking how to approach designing new houses that are compliant with the higher thermal requirements of New Zealand Building Code clause H1 Energy efficiency 5th edition. The first step is to look further than just the schedule method.
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By Alide Elkink
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1 August 2022, Build 191
Roof construction R-values will increase to R6.6 when New Zealand Building Code Acceptable Solution H1/AS1 5th edition becomes mandatory on 1 May 2023 (6 months later than first announced). Have you thought about how you will deal with these changes in your designs?
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By Greg Burn
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1 June 2022, Build 190
BRANZ modelling identified six areas for designers to focus on to reduce the carbon footprint of a new build. In the first of this series, we look at the practical considerations for designers using rule of thumb 1 Increase construction R-values.
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By David Hindley
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1 February 2022, Build 188
MBIE recently released energy efficiency changes to the Building Code to help make new homes and buildings warmer, drier and healthier. These include increased minimum insulation requirements for roofs, windows and floors.
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By Bruce Sedcole
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1 February 2022, Build 188
In Build 186 Houses ripe for renovation, we talked about renovating and refurbishing New Zealand character homes. Now, here is a closer look at some of the common tasks you may have to address.
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By Roger Shelton
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1 February 2021, Build 182
While the use of dragon ties in New Zealand residential construction has decreased over recent decades, they remain a simple and cost-effective method to provide bracing solutions to larger rooms. However, BRANZ helpline queries suggest there is still some confusion around when they should be used.
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By Jason Quinn, Elrond Burrell
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1 February 2021, Build 182
A handbook of high thermal performance construction details due for release by mid-2021 will be indispensable to New Zealand architects and designers as well as builders, suppliers and consenting officials.
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By John Grant
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1 October 2020, Build 180
Controlling fire spread between residential buildings and outbuildings is important for protecting life and property. We recap the requirements and look at an area of confusion – fire rating of windows and doors in walls close to a boundary.
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By Alide Elkink
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1 December 2019, Build 175
If an internal gutter that provides drainage from a metal roof overflows, the only place the water can go is into the building below. This is not only inconvenient but can cause damage. How can these problems be avoided?
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By Alide Elkink
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1 December 2019, Build 175
The correct fixings are needed at the various junctions of a timber-framed building structure to resist uplift in windy conditions. In this article, we summarise where to find them in NZS 3604:2011 and what is required.
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