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Outdoor living areas have quickly become a quintessential feature for Australian homes, and it's not hard to see why. In a country renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and enviable climate, homeowners are increasingly recognising the value of extending their living spaces beyond the four walls of their houses. These outdoor retreats not only offer a seamless connection to nature but also provide versatile areas for relaxation, entertainment, and family gatherings. A great way to revamp your outdoor space while also adding value is to install a high-quality, fibre cement deck.  

Hardiedeck at Radiant Life College

Increased Usable Space

A well-designed outdoor deck effectively increases the usable square footage of your home. It provides an additional area for various activities, such as dining, entertaining, lounging, and even working from home. 

Low Maintenance 

Modern decking materials, such as fibre cement, are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements. They can withstand heat without splintering or shrinking, while also being resistant to warping and rotting caused by moisture. Beyond their durability, these boards are versatile and long-lasting, making them an ideal option for outdoor spaces. Unlike traditional wood decks that need regular staining, sealing, and painting, fibre cement decks only require periodic cleaning to maintain their appearance. This saves you time and money in the long run.

Versatility in Design

Fibre cement decking is versatile in terms of design and aesthetics. It can be customised to match your existing home's colour and style. Additionally, you can choose from a range of finishes and textures to achieve your desired look. 

Safety 

Fibre cement decks are designed with safety in mind. They typically have textured surfaces that provide excellent slip resistance, even when the deck is wet. 

Both timber and traditional composite decks don’t stand up to bushfires. By going with a non-combustible option like Hardiedeck you can safely install a deck in bushfire-prone areas, install a fire pit, or have a BBQ without any risk of ignition. 

Fibre-Cement Deck at PMC

At PMC we decided to install a fibre-cement deck from James Hardie at our office in Cairns. By doing this it has created an inviting outdoor space to eat lunch, increased the curb appeal and can be used year-round.

https://hardiedeck.com.au/ 

Installation Progress

Finished Install

For finishing options, Hardie recommends a tinted sealer. We opted to go with Crommelin Diamondcoat in a sleek grey tint which seamlessly matched the colour of our building. For more information about sealing and colour options check out the guide from James Hardie.

https://hardiedeck.com.au/coatings

If you're interested in transforming your outdoor area with HardieDeck, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. Simply give us a call or email us with your dimensions or the total square meter area you'd like to cover, and we'll provide you with a precise quote. 

While it's easy to focus on the more visible elements of a bathroom like tile choices or plumbing fixtures, it’s equally as important to consider the underlying structure. The use of furring channels play a significant role in ensuring the longevity, stability, and functionality of wet areas.  It may seem quicker and easier to directly fix your wet area board to block walls but are you aware of the issues that may arise from this? 

Structural Integrity

Furring channels play a critical role in ensuring the structural integrity of a wet area. They provide a sturdy framework onto which Villaboard or Wet Area plasterboard can be securely attached. This ensures that the surface remains flat, level, and capable of supporting the weight of tiles and other fixtures. If the wet area board is directly fixed to block walls and then tiled over there becomes a high risk of the board pulling off the wall, this may also void your warranty due to not following the recommended installation instructions.  

Supporting Fixtures and Accessories

Beyond structural support, wet areas also accommodate a plethora of fixtures, accessories, and equipment. Furring channels, with their strength and stability, provide secure anchoring points for items like towel racks, shower curtains, vanity cabinets, and mirrors. Their ability to bear the weight of these accessories ensures they remain firmly attached over the long term, reducing the risk of detachment or accidents.

Ventilation

Wet areas generate moisture through activities like bathing, showering, cooking, and dishwashing. If this moisture is allowed to accumulate, it can lead to a host of problems, including mould and mildew growth, peeling paint, and rotting materials. Furring channels create a small but essential air gap between the wet area board and the structural elements of the wall or ceiling. This gap allows moisture to dissipate rather than being trapped within the wall or ceiling cavity. This is especially important in high-humidity areas like North Queensland.

Easy Electrical and Plumbing Access

In wet areas, you'll typically find a multitude of electrical outlets, switches, and plumbing fixtures. Furring channels establish a practical cavity behind the board, providing a convenient pathway for routing wiring and plumbing pipes. This design streamlines the installation and maintenance of these vital components, all the while concealing them from sight. 

Installation Resources

For comprehensive installation instructions, we suggest referring to the 'Villaboard Lining Installation Guide' provided by James Hardie. This guide offers extensive insights into furring channel arrangements and the appropriate fasteners necessary for wet areas, as well as both tiled and untiled spaces. 

https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/categories/internal-lining/villaboard-lining

Source: James Hardie Villaboard Lining Installation Guide

C2 fasteners necessitate larger and longer holes compared to their C1 equivalents, resulting in a need for deeper and wider boreholes. Increased hole depth leads to a longer drilling process, potentially requiring larger bolts. It's crucial to account for these extended drilling times and the additional material requirements from the outset of the project to ensure they are integrated into the construction schedule and budget. Architects and designers will be required to grasp these modifications and adapt their blueprints accordingly. These fresh regulations are not discretionary on a per-building basis; instead, they constitute mandatory criteria that must be integrated into every phase of the construction process to guarantee adherence.

When it comes to making our homes comfortable and energy-efficient, insulation often takes a back seat to more visible and glamorous home improvements. However, don't be fooled by its inconspicuous nature, insulation is the unsung hero of home construction and plays a pivotal role in keeping your home cozy, reducing energy bills, and promoting environmental sustainability. 

Energy Efficiency

One of the primary reasons insulation is vital in your home is its significant impact on energy efficiency. Properly installed insulation helps create a thermal barrier, preventing the exchange of heat between your home's interior and the outside environment. This means that your home remains cool during the scorching summer months, and during the chilly winter, it stays warm. Consequently, your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system doesn't have to work as hard, leading to substantial energy savings and reduced utility bills. 

In light of recent updates to the National Construction Code (NCC), all residential constructions must achieve a minimum 7-star Energy Efficiency rating by October 2023. These regulatory changes have a profound impact on the entire spectrum of the industry, from architects to builders. An effective strategy to improve the star rating is to Increase the R-value of wall, floor and ceiling insulation. As a general rule of thumb the larger the R value the thicker the insulation. You can also extend insulation to new areas for example underneath the slab, the garage and internal walls.

Insulation R-Value Guide:

Zone 1 and 2 regions require lower R values of 3 or 4, while zones 3-7 require an R value of 5. As we reach Zone 8, R values of 6 are required.

Cost Savings

While the initial cost of insulating your home may seem daunting, the long-term savings it offers far outweigh the investment. Insulation functions as a thermal barrier, effectively creating a shield that separates your indoor environment from the external climate. As a result, it significantly diminishes the amount of energy required to maintain a comfortable temperature within your home. Reduced reliance on heating and cooling systems translates directly into savings on your utility bills throughout the year. The extent of these savings can be quite impressive. In fact, numerous homeowners have reported remarkable reductions in their energy costs following the installation of proper insulation. It's not uncommon to hear of cases where energy bills have plummeted by up to 50%. This means that the investment made in insulation pays for itself over time, yielding a return that continues to grow as the years go by.

The table below shows how much money can be saved yearly in each Australian Capital city by upgrading a home with a 2-star energy rating with different types of insulation.

Source: Climate Council, Smarter Energy Use (2022) 

Environmental Impact

In addition to the personal advantages of having proper insulation in your home, it's crucial to recognize that insulation is also a commendable and environmentally responsible choice. When you take steps to reduce your energy consumption through insulation, you are making a positive contribution to our planet's well-being. Heating and cooling are major contributors to household energy consumption. When you use less energy to heat or cool your home, you're directly reducing the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. 

In the world of home improvement, insulation may not always steal the spotlight, but it unquestionably stands as a foundational element of a comfortable, energy-efficient, and sustainable living environment. At PMC we supply and deliver an extensive range of Insulation such as Knauf Earthwool, Pink Batts, Autex Polyester, CSR Bradford, EcoWool, and a host of other products for general ceiling and wall insulation. Not sure what you are looking for? Got a project in mind? Music room or media room? New house? Or simply renovating and want to cool your patio? Give us a call. 

Whether you're looking to increase your home's resale value or simply create a more comfortable living space, renovating with the intention of adding value can be a rewarding endeavour. A simple way to do this is by adding VJ (Vertical Joint) panelling products to your renovation. These innovative solutions effortlessly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, concealing imperfections and offering a fresh, modern look. A variety of VJ Paneling options are available including MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard), Fibre Cement, and Polyester Fibre. Each type boasts its own distinctive characteristics, allowing you to tailor your interior design with precision and finesse. 

Medium Density Fibreboard

A popular choice for its versatility and cost-effectiveness, MDF VJ Paneling, is perfect for those seeking a contemporary or traditional touch. Its engineered wood composition ensures durability, making it an ideal option for high-traffic areas. With MDF, you can effortlessly achieve a sleek and modern ambience that harmonizes with various decor styles. A great example of this design is the ‘Easy VJ’ by EasyCraft. 

Easy VJ Features:

• 60, 100, 150 and 300mm spacing options.
• Primed and ready to paint for fast, easy installation.
• Hidden tongue and groove easyjoin system 
• High impact resistance, 300% tougher than plasterboard.
• Consistent board surface, no knot holes, splitting or splinters.
• Available in a wide range of lengths. 

Fibre Cement 

For those who value both aesthetics and endurance, Fibre Cement VJ Paneling steps into the spotlight. Its robust nature ensures that your design retains its charm while withstanding the test of time, making it a go-to solution for creating captivating feature walls or enhancing high-traffic spaces with an authentic touch. Crafted from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibres, this type of panelling offers exceptional resistance to everyday elements. A quality example of this is the HardieGroove Lining, which boasts the look of tongue and groove timber with the durability of fibre cement. HardieGroove shines as a durable choice that easily withstands moisture and wear. Its versatility extends to kitchens, laundries, and bathrooms (excluding shower zones), making it an excellent option for enhancing these functional spaces.

Polyester Fibre 

If texture and depth are what you seek, look no further than Polyester Fibre VJ Paneling. This versatile option brings an intriguing quality to your interiors. Known for its superb acoustic properties and heat insulation, this panelling option adds an extra layer of comfort and luxury to any space. The ‘Groove Panel’ by Autex is a notable example of this, with six pattern suggestions and endless customisation options. This panel is lightweight yet semi-rigid and is meticulously router-cut with a collection of precise, angular patterns designed to play with and manipulate light. 

At PMC, we take pride in being your dedicated partner throughout your renovation journey. As a reliable supplier, we offer a comprehensive selection of VJ panelling products, ensuring that your every design aspiration and project scale are catered to with precision and care. Whether your endeavour involves a large commercial undertaking or a more intimate home renovation project, we stand ready to provide you with the solutions you need. Don't hesitate to get in contact with our team for more information. 

In Australia, the construction industry is witnessing a remarkable transformation thanks to the integration of technology, particularly the proliferation of innovative apps. These digital tools are proving to be invaluable assets, streamlining and enhancing various aspects of construction projects. From planning and design to on-site execution and project management, technology is redefining efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration. 

For example, there are two notable apps that help to assist projects for fire-related penetrations. TBA Firefly has a systems app that assists with the compliant installation of their products, generating customised passive fire protection registers, flagging compliance issues and specifying rectification works. Promat Australia also has a useful app that helps to select the correct fire collar. It is very simple to use and only requires a few parameters to get an answer. Both apps are free and can be downloaded from the app store for Apple and Android devices.  

TBA FireFly App  

The TBA Firefly App gives you instant access to over 22,000 TBA Firefly Fully Tested and Assessed NCC Compliant Fire Stopping Systems. With this app at your fingertips, Australian industry professionals gain instant access to a valuable resource, simplifying the search for tested fire-stopping solutions tailored to their specific projects. The TBA Firefly App is revolutionizing the industry by providing quick and reliable access to vital information, making fire safety a breeze for all construction experts Down Under. 

https://tbafirefly.com.au/report-packs 

Promat Fire Collar Selector App

The Promat Fire Collar Selector App is an easy and reliable way to choose and install the perfect fire-stopping solution. The App contains data for a large variety of wall and floor types, different pipe types, and a variety of pipe sizes and Fire Resistance Levels. Using the app is straightforward, as it only necessitates selecting a few parameters to obtain the desired answer. Once you have your answer, the app provides you with a picture of the collar, along with its name and code, streamlining the ordering process for your convenience. Additionally, the app includes the report number, enabling you to request a copy to be sent directly to you.  

https://www.promat.com/en-au/construction/tools-services/software-apps/fire-collar-selector/ 

In the ever-evolving construction industry safety remains paramount, especially when it comes to fire-rated penetrations and products. With advancements in technology, professionals now have access to cutting-edge solutions that redefine how we approach fire safety in buildings. These intelligent apps offer instant access to a comprehensive database of tested fire-stopping systems. Embracing these tech-driven innovations is empowering the industry to build with confidence and prioritize fire safety like never before. 

At PMC, we understand the significance of fire safety in construction projects, and that's why we proudly supply both TBA Firefly and Promat products. Don't hesitate to get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team. We are here to guide you through the process, answer any questions, and provide expert recommendations. 

Various establishments, including restaurants, cafés, schools, churches, clubs, and reception/foyers, share a common issue - they tend to be quite noisy, particularly when multiple conversations are happening simultaneously. A notable example is Cairns Souths football club, which recently acknowledged the necessity to address the perceived noise problem in their dining area. Despite incorporating soft furnishings and carpet, the glass frontage and solid ceilings contributed to excessive noise reflection. To tackle this challenge, they turned to the expertise of Myriad Design, in collaboration with Autex, and opted for the Frontier Talus acoustic solution.

Below are some Before and After Examples of Frontier Talus that PMC Supplied at Cairns South Football Club:

Before:

 After:

  Frontier Talus in ‘Acros’ Colour

Autex Frontier is a state-of-the-art acoustic ceiling system designed to effectively diminish reverberated noise, creating a tranquil ambience in any environment. Tailored perfectly for open-plan settings where noise reflections can be a challenge, these remarkable baffles effortlessly combine function and style, adding a touch of elegance to any space.

Design Options:

Autex Frontier Baffles come in a large range of design and colour options:

 • Pick from 17 vibrant colours and nine distinctive styles, such as Fins or Rafts, to make a striking and dimensional statement. 

• Customize the acoustic experience to perfection, tailoring it to your preferences and needs. Easily adjust the positioning of the Fins or Rafts by bringing them closer together or spreading them apart.

• Achieve seamless integration with your environment by mounting the Fins or Rafts flush to the ceiling, creating a harmonious blend, or fixing them to rails and even suspending them using extension rods.

Frontier RAFTS:

Frontier Rafts offer a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality. Despite its sturdy outward appearance, each style's scored and layered construction ensures they remain hollow and remarkably lightweight. Rafts, crafted from highly-absorbent compressed material, maintain their shape without bending or warping after installation. The on-site adjustability of Frontier Rafts enables targeted sound absorption and personalized acoustic effects, catering precisely to the space's requirements.

RAFT Beam 100 PMC Supplied to Lukure Cafe

Frontier Fins:

Frontier Fins boast outstanding acoustic performance, making them ideal for both wall and ceiling applications. They are supplied in convenient kits which include acoustic fins and fixing hardware, facilitating easy installation. Whether you seek a subtle integration or a prominent feature design, frontier fins effortlessly complement small and large spaces alike.

Frontier Talus Fins at Cairns South Football Club

Autex Frontier Features:                                                   

• Contains at least 60% recycled material
• Non-toxic
• Lightweight
• Easy to install
• 10-year warranty
• Cleanable and easily dismountable 
• Endless design options with mix-and-match colours

If you're intrigued by the possibility of installing Autex Frontier Baffles in your space, don't hesitate to contact our team! We will provide you with all the information you need to embark on a journey of superior soundscapes and aesthetic brilliance.  

Popular amongst homeowners, designers and builders around Australia, Hardie™ external cladding is the ideal choice for making home exteriors beautiful and enduring. 

Hardie Oblique Cladding captures a visually impactful and modern style through its broad grooves and customizable design options. It showcases a sleek appearance while also ensuring durability to withstand Australia's challenging environments. The cladding arrives pre-primed and can be effortlessly painted in a variety of colours. It’s the only exterior cladding by James Hardie with a slanted groove edge that mixes shadows & highlights giving walls extra depth. Additionally, Hardie Oblique Cladding offers exceptional versatility, making it suitable for both residential and commercial applications. Its sleek profile and unique slanted edge design create a dynamic visual effect, transforming ordinary walls into captivating architectural features. 

James Hardie has a detailed brochure which has a simple 4-step installation process. This cladding does not require specialist installers, meaning that the installation is not too complex!

https://www.jameshardie.com.au/hardie-oblique-cladding-brochure 

The cladding comes in two sizes, 200mm and 300mm widths at 14mm thick. This allows for simple or unique combinations when installing. Below are two different examples:

1. Simple Design 

2. Unique Design 

Check out this farmhouse clad in Oblique!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTY83CNbpg8

Features of Oblique Cladding:

• Grooves: 23mm wide and 6mm deep, with the option to place the oblique edge to the left or right
• Highlights: When oriented northwards the slanted edge creates depth and elevation
• Width: 200mm or 300mm wide, with 175mm or 275mm groove spacing
• Versatility: Install vertically or horizontally, re-clad existing homes or use from the ground up for a new build or extension
•         Fire resistant, Adheres to bushfire attack level requirements to BAL 40. Fire Rating Level of up to 60 minutes when used with Hardie™ Smart Fire & Acoustic              Wall Systems.
•         Flexible Colour. Pre-primed and ready to paint in any colour. 

Vertical installation 2750mm lengths suit common wall heights which can help reduce waste. 4200mm lengths give tall walls a continuous look, reducing the need for horizontal joints.

Made with Hardie™ premium fibre cement it will stay looking good. It’s resistant to damage from termites, rot and moisture, and engineered to stand up to coastal and other harsh conditions.

If you're interested in ordering Oblique Cladding for your home or next project, get in touch with our friendly staff. Contact us today to explore the possibilities and turn your vision into a stunning reality!

We also stock a large range of other products from James Hardie such as:

• Villaboard
• Scyon Secura Flooring
• Axon
• Linea
• Stria cladding
• Hardietex
• Comtex
• Hardiedeck
• Hardieflex
• Versilux
• Primeline weatherboards
• Matrix
• Exotec and more.