Nails – holding buildings together
When Captain James Cook arrived in the Pacific, he found buildings that were woven, lashed or pegged together as there was no iron. He brought with him nails and the opportunity for new construction techniques.
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When Captain James Cook arrived in the Pacific, he found buildings that were woven, lashed or pegged together as there was no iron. He brought with him nails and the opportunity for new construction techniques.
Census Data gives us a picture of the materials used in the past for claddings and structure. Although what we know has been limited, the dominance of timber framing is clear.
Fragile and costly window glass was introduced to New Zealand in the 1840s. Its often picturesque distortions or character has gradually given way to mass produced perfection.
With electricity costs on the increase and air pollution a serious issue, thermal insulation has an essential role in keeping a building warm, dry and comfortable for its occupants while helping to preserve the environment.
A building’s exterior offers a passing view to the world, but it is the interior that provides the backdrop to everyday life. Wall linings have changed over time, but the ever faithful plaster has had a long run and is still going strong.
What started out as the desire for a cold drink on a hot day lead to the development of the thermal insulation for buildings that we know today.
Advances in technology in the 20th century saw concrete’s use as a building material flourish. This was also the case in New Zealand where, as the demand for precast grew, homegrown products were developed.
First invented in Roman times, cement has undergone a chemical revolution to deliver the Portland cement used extensively today.
The development of hollow-core concrete blocks offered faster, cheaper building and homes that were built to last. New Zealand was quick to make use of the new technology.
Electric lamps promised much that the flickering flame could not. They were to be cooler, brighter, steadier and more pleasant to the eye without releasing toxic, noxious or dirty by-products. However, they did not start that way.