Our Building A to Z
Building or renovating a home is no picnic! It is a large, multifaceted project from start to finish. Luckily we have you covered with all of our best pieces of advice about the process from contracts to heating choices and everything in between.
A – Architect
While their primary job is to help you with the design of a new build or renovation, architects can also be a great source of knowledge when it comes to issues such as resource consent and council bylaws, so make sure to pick their brains if you have questions in these areas as well.
B – Building Consent
This is a process of acquiring approval from your local government body for your new build or renovation project. Your builder should be able to walk you through (if not completely take care of) the application and approval process.
C – Contracts
Did you know that if you are commencing a building project over the value of thirty thousand dollars your builder is required to present you with a contract? Contracts (with building as with everything) help to keep both parties safe as well as clarify the job in a measurable and understandable way.
D – Design
Interior designers are a great source of knowledge, understanding and ideas when it comes to designing the look and feel of your build or renovation. However if you have the Kiwi DIY spirit there are plenty of online resources such as Pinterest to keep you inspired and motivated.
E – Exterior
It is the first thing that people see when introduced to your home and we all know first impressions matter! As well as considering what falls within your timeframe and budget, make sure to consider how your exterior might influence the resale value of your house. Some exteriors (such as brick) require much less maintenance and could provide you with a better sale when the time comes to move on.
F – Flooring
With so many flooring options available these days, here are some important things to keep in mind when choosing what to choose: who is going to be using your flooring most, will it be children, pets, dirty gumboots? A good understanding of the flooring's function and its cleaning requirements will help you make a choice that is both beautiful and low maintenance.
G – Guarantee
A builder’s guarantee is something worth taking a look at before making your final decision on who to build with. Along with helping you understand what they do and do not cover, it gives you a great indication as to where their company values lie. Many builders are also associated with other organisations such as Master Builders – these organisations also offer guarantees for you to examine.
H – Heating
Fireplaces, heat pumps, insulation, double glazing… when it comes to making a cozy home nothing says comfort more than warmth! Be sure to keep in mind the different options for containing that heat inside your house as well as the various options for generating it.
I – Inspirations
Inspiration for a new build or renovation comes from many different places, maybe it was a colour palette that you are taken by, or perhaps a beautiful picture in a magazine. Consider making a (physical or digital) mood board of everything that catches your eye. When it's all in one place you will begin to see patterns and themes emerging. From there you can bring your inspirations into reality.
J – Joinery
While it’s not particularly glamorous to look at by itself, joinery has a huge effect on your finished look. Apart from its appearance, joinery plays a major role in preventing insulation and condensation issues during the damp months of the year. Research your different material options (wood and aluminium being the most popular for window joinery). Remember to ask the expert questions about long term maintenance as well as colour and style options.
K – Kitchen
The heart of the home, this particular room has multiple demands on both its aesthetic and its function. Along with all the beautiful finishing, remember to talk to your builder about elements such as moisture proofing and appropriate flooring options.
L – Licensed Building Practitioner
LBP’s are building professionals who have been assessed and registered as competent to carry out building that is essential to the structure or weathertightness of residential houses. If you are ever unsure about whether your builder or designer is an LBP you can check on the register at www.lbp.govt.nz
M – Master Builder
One of the biggest benefits of building with a certified Master Builder is their 10 year guarantee! This guarantee covers things like loss of deposit and non-completion, materials and workmanship and structural defects. To find out all of the ins and outs of the Master Builder Guarantee you can visit their website at www.masterbuilder.org.nz
N – Natural Light
It’s fast becoming the most sought after aspect of every family home, incorporating natural light elements in the form of feature windows, skylights and glass doors is only the beginning! Letting a little bit of the outside beauty inside can create that X-factor in any new home or renovation project! So talk to your builder about some easy ways to let the light in.
O – On Time
No one likes a project that goes into overtime, unfortunately this is the reality for many people! At Roger Ramsey Building we commit to delivering your project on time and budget. Good communication between yourself and your builder will help to speed up the process and avoid unnecessary road bumps halfway through the build.
P – Project Management
The role of Project Manager is an important role to clarify right at the beginning of the building or renovation process! Some builders prefer to project manage the job themselves and others may be more flexible about you doing some (or all) of the management. Regardless of who is doing the management, communication and clarity is key!
Q – Quality
The issue of quality over quantity or price is an age-old one. However, in the case of a new build or renovation we would encourage you to pursue quality at every stage possible! This is not a pair of shoes that you change out with the next season, the decision that you make at this stage will carry through for years! It’s worth considering the future costs of the material you choose as well as the present ones. An experienced builder will be able to provide direction on where best to invest your budget when it comes to quality products and materials.
R – Renovation
Sometimes a facelift is as good as a change – when it comes to houses anyway! Conducting a renovation, especially a major one, comes with its own unique set of issues and requirements and potential problems. Finding a builder who is confident and experienced in the area you are looking to improve is of utmost importance.
S – Solar Power
Once designated to the realm of the wealthy or extremely eco-friendly, solar power is fast becoming both a functional and approachable option for more and more people! Having a good discussion with your builder about where and how solar power might work in your home could reveal some surprising energy options!
T – Tiling
No longer resigned to the bathroom, kitchen and courtyard areas, tile technology has come a long way since the trend began! There is (virtually) a tile for every inch of your house, indoor, outdoor and in between. Talk to your builder about the benefits, costs and options when it comes to tiling different areas of your house.
U – Underfloor Heating
Nothing says luxury like waking up to a warm floor. Once reserved for million dollar mansions, under floor heating is now more affordable than ever before! Finding out the options that might accommodate your new build or renovation could open you up to a whole world of warmth and toasty toes!
V – Ventilation
Equally as important as having a well heated home is one that is well ventilated! The options for ventilation stretch from simple fan systems to complex and comprehensive HRV ducting systems. This is an element of your home that has no aesthetic contribution, but it does have the largest effect on atmosphere and health. Unlike a feature wall or ensuite, your air is everywhere!
W – Walk-in Wardrobes
The ultimate indulgence! These beautiful additions to your home can create that lux feeling and prevent marital wardrobe wars! Walk-in wardrobes come in many shapes and sizes, if you want one but are pushed for space, ask your builder for some creative ideas to maximise your square footage, it’s worth squeezing it in there somewhere!
X – X-Factor
Everyone has a different idea of what constitutes the X factor in their home, from beautiful sculleries to outdoor fire pits. Try setting aside a little bit of budget for the thing that makes you smile. Big differences lie in small details so when trying to add the X-factor into your new place remember, it doesn’t have to be something big, it just has to add a little bit of finesse.
Y – Your Dreams
Every new build or renovation starts with a desire to create something beautiful. Especially at the beginning stages of a build or renovation, don’t be afraid to dream big. What you end up with may have a few budget constraints, but an experienced builder will know of some creative ways to get you closer to that ‘gram-worth’ final finish!
Z – Zoning
Not to be confused with building codes (which regulate the details of the structure on a property) zoning codes regulate how a section of land can be used and what type of homes or businesses can utilise a specific piece of land along with its current structures. When it comes to new builds it’s important to consult with your contracted architect to find out if any zoning codes apply or alter your building proposal.
