10 Ways to Build an Eco-Friendly House
The building industry is a big and beautiful beast, but it has a significant impact on the environment. The materials, land and energy used in new builds and home renovations have a direct impact on greenhouse gas emissions. At AAG Constructions, we are passionate about preserving the environment for future generations and are mindful of the impact our work has on our fragile environment. It is not a reason to avoid a renovation or build, but it is a reason to make sure that you and your construction team (builder/architect/engineer) are on the lookout for the most sustainable materials and techniques to reduce the impact on the environment and build an environmentally friendly home.
Here are some of our top tips for making your build a little greener:
Why hire an Architect – Custom Home Builders Sydney
So you have been dreaming about building your dream home for…only your entire life. Chances are you have a pretty good idea about what you like and what you don’t like when it comes to the design of your home. BUT does your partner have the same taste as you? And have you thought about how you are going to afford it all? Will the design in your head actually translate to the real thing? Will the doors open the right way? Will it function like a home should? We often meet clients who are in the design phase and are quite clear with what they want. While this is great, sometimes the plan in your head is quite different from what it would look like in the flesh due to a range of factors including the space you have available, existing structure and budget. While we can appreciate that not every renovation or build requires the skills of an architect, we highly recommend at least having a chat to an architect before you jump into planning and designing yourself.
Questions to Ask Before Signing the Renovation Contract
Meeting with builders for the first time can be daunting, especially if you haven’t had experience of building or renovating before, and you don’t know how to best get prepared for the first meeting, let alone the entire process. Choosing the right builder is the single most important decision you will make in your home renovation, so here is a simple list for you to take along to your initial meeting with your builder.
Northern Beaches Builders: How are we different from the competition?
Who are we?
AAG Constructions is a small boutique building company consisting of a project manager and builder, two carpenters, two apprentices and a communications manager. To learn more about our team, head to our “About Us” page.
Keep reading below to learn about what sets us apart from the rest!
8 Reasons to Go Solar in Sydney
Why go solar?
So you have heard about solar, but what does it actually mean to go solar? And why should you do it? The Australian climate (and particularly Sydney) is not only wonderful for those who enjoy the outdoors and soaking up that vitamin D, but it is the perfect environment for solar energy production. On average, Australian homes are drenched in 2,800 of glorious sunshine rays each year – now that’s a lot of sunshine! The choice to go solar not only improves your homes energy efficiency and reduces your carbon footprint, but it can dramatically cut energy costs and can also improve your property value dramatically. At AAG, we are all for solar.
3 Easy Steps for First Home Buyers
Buying your first home on the Northern Beaches can be one of the most exciting and nerve wracking times in your life. Being well informed about what to consider can save you from unnecessary stress and wasted money in the long term. Here is a checklist that we have created to guide you in getting ready to purchase your first home.
Development Approval vs Complying Development Certificate
In order to obtain approval for your project you will need to submit either a Development Application (DA) or a Comply and Development Certificate (CDC) application through council to get permission for the works. The DA or CDC is typically lodged by your private certifier or by your local council officer.
Indoor Plant Styling
For some people the best part of the renovation process is the opportunity to style their home. It is your chance to take a beautiful space and make it your own. Styling a space can change the feel of your home dramatically, and it is important that careful consideration is paid to getting is just right. In much the same way you carefully planned out your renovation you will need to give the same consideration to the way you style your home.
Warning Signs that you might have the Wrong Builder
It can be hard to tell if you have chosen the right builder for you. It’s hard enough to find the right hairdresser, let alone choosing a builder who will be able to work to a high standard both in their workmanship and in their day to day running of the building company. And to top it all off, you actually need to like the guy!
The success of any building project will be determined by the quality of the builder, their team of professionals and their ability to get the job done. This is one part of the process which you should not rush. Take your time to find the right builder for you and your family. If you are struggling to find the right one, hang in there.
How to get the most out of your First Design Meeting
So you have decided to take the next step with your building project – Congratulations! You are now on your way…
The design phase can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re not too sure what you want. Along the way, it is not unusual to change your mind about certain elements of the design and style, and that’s OK – we love to see ideas grow and creativity flourish! Meeting face to face with your builders’ designer or architect is a great way to get the juices flowing for your project. If your builder is well connected (this is important) he/she should be able to recommend a good designer or architect, and one who they have worked with before. This makes the collaborative process run more smoothly.
To make the most out of your first meeting it is important to ask yourself some questions beforehand so you can be better prepared.
