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Archicentre drought cracking warning - Prevention methods from Certainteed
Cracking is a serious fault in 38% of the 75,000 houses inspected in the last 5 years by Archicentre, the building advisory service of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects. Archicentre warns of up to 30% increases in cracking as the ground hardens through drought. This will be especially true of traditional style brick and plaster homes. | Owners of lightweight, energy-efficient homes however, will to face less cracking problems, because there is more flex in their buildings. Combined with a well reinforced concrete slab, the total structure resists movement caused by dry, settling subsoil. Leverage points, such as chimneys and footings, are eliminated, allowing the house to Ofloat¹ on shifting ground. | 
| Paradoxically, a lightweight, energy-efficient house can feel more solid than its heavyweight ancestors, thanks to the sound deadening effect of double glazed windows and tight insulation. Internally, these houses will be easy to keep at a comfortable temperature year round, working with the environment instead of against it. Comfort levels will be several times higher than required by the token standards of 5 Star legislation.
In another seeming paradox, energy-efficient homes can actually cost to less to build because the need for major heating and cooling systems is eliminated.
Unfortunately building designers, especially the Obrand¹ sector, have been slow catching up but you can learn the basics of energy efficient housing at seminars conducted by Certainteed double-glazed windows. Topics include solar orientation, shading options, efficient building materials, heating and cooling systems, glazing methods and traps to avoid. Regular sessions in Vic, Tas, SA and ACT. Bookings 1800 062 100.
Photo: No cracking worries, despite shifting sands, thanks to modern materials and methods.
To read Archicentre¹s Full News Release click: 
For further information contact:
CertainTeed PVC Windows
Address: 359 Warrigal Road, Cheltenham, VIC, 3192
Phone: 1800 062 1...
Fax: 03 9584 5....
Web: www.certainteed.com.au
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