Home extensions are becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners looking to expand their living space in a time and cost effective manner. Whether you need extra room for a growing family, a home office, an indoor-outdoor living space, or simply want to add value to your property, a well-planned home extension in Brisbane can be a smart investment. In this article, we explore five compelling reasons why you should consider a home extension for your house.

1. Increase Living Space

The number one reason for a home extension is also the reason most people consider home extensions in the first place: increased living space. As families grow or circumstances change, a lack of space can become an issue. A home extension allows you to create the extra room you need, whether it’s an additional bedroom, a larger kitchen, a spacious living area, a home office or an indoor-outdoor area, home extensions can be the perfect solution to your needs.

One of the most common home extensions for Queensland homeowners is the addition of an indoor-outdoor living space. An indoor-outdoor living space can be enjoyed year round,  is perfect for entertaining, and gives you an additional space to lounge around in where you can make the most of the perfect QLD weather. As outdoor lovers, QLDers will be happy to know that creating an indoor-outdoor space can usually be done fairly easily through a home extension.

2. Avoid the Cost and Stress of Moving

Moving to a new house is a significant undertaking that involves substantial expenses and stress. If you need more space, home extensions offer an attractive alternative, allowing you to stay in your current home/neighborhood and avoid the upheaval of relocation. Home extensions in Brisbane are often the more cost effective alternative option when you factor in the cost of moving, including first of all embarking on a near-impossible journey to find the perfect home within your budget, stamp duty, real estate agent fees, and other expenses. These expenses can significantly exceed the cost of a well-planned home extension which can give you the added space you need with far less hassle and expenses. And for many people, they already love the home they have and moving into a new one simply because they need a bit more space is not what they consider the perfect solution.

3. Customise and Personalise

A home extension gives you the opportunity to customise and personalise your added new space according to your specific needs and preferences. Unlike purchasing a new property, where you have to compromise on certain features, a home extension in Brisbane allows you to design the space exactly as you envision it since you’re in control from point ‘Go’! From choosing the size and layout to selecting materials and finishes, your home extension is purpose-built to your requirements and preferences.

4. Boost Property Value

A thoughtfully designed and well-executed home extension can significantly increase the value of your property in the short and long run. Extra space, whatever its purpose, is attractive to potential buyers and can give your home a competitive edge in the real estate market if and when you decide to sell your property. Even if you don’t plan to sell your home in the near future, the added value from home extensions in Brisbane can be a long-term benefit and a smart investment.

5. Enhance Functionality and Lifestyle:

For many of us, the home we’re living in currently was somewhat perfect – for when we first moved in. However, fast-forward a few years and chances are things have changed – family, career, goals, lifestyle aspirations etc. For some, the changes may be significant enough to warrant a new home, however for most, a simple home extension can cater to the changes, allowing you to stay in the home you first fell in love with.

Whether you dream of a dedicated home gym, a home office, a private home theater, a bigger kitchen, or need room for a new family member, a well-designed home extension can cater to your lifestyle aspirations. Your newly created space has the ability to not only add functionality and comfort to your home, but also enhance your lifestyle.

Conclusion:

With careful planning and execution, a home extension can transform your house into the home of your dreams while making a sound investment in your property’s future.

As detailed above, there are some compelling benefits to a home extension, from having increased living space and creating a custom space to suit your specific needs to added property value, and improved functionality and lifestyle. In addition to these, a home extension can be a far more cost-effective solution to getting that bit of extra space you need, compared to finding, buying and moving into a new home. Home extensions in Brisbane can usually be done in a simple manner, making it an even more attractive option.

If you’re thinking about an extension for your home, ensure you consult with a professional builder who specialises in home extensions in Brisbane, such as Liona Constructions. Builders that are highly experienced in home extensions can correctly assess the feasibility and design your home extension, provide you with the best advice and have the unique skills and knowledge required to complete the job cost-effectively.

Liona Constructions are a highly respected team of builders with over 35 years of industry experience and have completed hundreds of successful projects, including home extensions in Brisbane, so you know your dream home extension is in safe hands. For a dedicated and passionate professional team who are known for their superior workmanship and attention to detail, get in touch with the Liona Construction team today.

Thinking about building your dream home soon? Wonderful idea! However, you have to purchase a block of land first before hiring a home builders Brisbane company. If you want to save thousands of dollars in building costs, one of the most experienced and professional residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane recommends keeping a couple of things in mind:

1. Small Lot Code

Experienced QLD builders know this already, but did you know that if a block is 450m2 or smaller, a ‘small lot code’ applies in the Brisbane City Council. The same goes for battle-axe lots under 600m2. Why is this important? Because the size and height of your new home depend on the size of your lot.

2. Demolition restrictions

The fact is that many new homeowners are looking for empty lots to build on due to numerous demolition restriction rules. Still, if you fall in love with a lot with a house, ensure you know when it was built before purchasing. If a building is built before 1946 as per the Brisbane City Council, you may not be able to demolish it.

3. Slope

Another element worth taking into consideration when trying to reduce building costs is the slope of the block. Indeed, the greater the slope, the higher the costs. What’s more surprising is that some QLD builders don’t even build on sloping blocks as they require a custom design.

Of note, when building on a sloping block, retaining walls have to be higher than usual. And, if they are more than one meter high, special engineering and building approvals are needed, which also increase build costs, according to residential builders experts.

4. Height restrictions

The height of your new home isn’t only determined by the size of your lot but also by the location. In other words, if you wish to build a home in a low-density residential zone, then certain restrictions apply as to how high above ground level your house is allowed to go. In certain cases, like on a sloping block, for example, your home will need to step up or down, which significantly increases the build costs.

5. Stormwater

Specialist construction companies in Brisbane emphasise the importance of where the stormwater will go, as it can cause significant damage, especially in case of a sloping lot away from the road. Protecting your home and removing stormwater into the street may be quite costly if there isn’t a connecting underground line available at the rear.

Now that you know the main things to consider when choosing a block to build on, you can go ahead and purchase the perfect one for you. Then, you are ready to contact Liona Constructions – the number one QLD builders – to ensure you get the dream house you deserve.

Are you thinking about building your dream home? Or maybe renovating your current one? If the answer is yes, the chances you are thinking about incorporating natural stone into the design are pretty high. Rustic, elegant, and eco-friendly stone has a unique charm. When used in interior design, it provides homes with a timeless look.

But how do you know which type of stone to use? No worries, Liona Constructions – one of the leading residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane – is here to help you learn the different types of natural stone to use in your new or remodeled home.

Each type has characteristics worth considering when choosing the idea one. So, let’s look at the five most common types, according to expert residential builders:

1. Basalts

As the most common type of stone, basalts are frequently found in homes. They are fine-grained with colours, ranging from grey to black. Grey tones seem to be the more popular choice for both interior and exterior application. Plus, they oftentimes feature small holes for a distinctive look.

Home applications: pool surrounds, bathroom cladding, outdoor shower surrounds, kitchen splashbacks, etc.

2. Granite

Granite is a type of igneous or magmatic, rock formed when hot, molten rock crystallizes and solidifies. In general, it consists of quartz and feldspar, which make it remarkably resistant to scratching, heat, and chips. Thanks to these characteristics, professional QLD builders recommend granite for both internal and external design, especially for kitchen countertops or flooring.

Home applications: kitchen benchtops, kitchen splashbacks, bathroom vanity tops, flooring, fireplace surrounds, wall cladding, etc.

3. Quartzite

Similar to granite, quartzite offers even stronger physical-mechanical features. This stone type is particularly suited for both internal and external uses and comes in distinctive colours with veining similar to marble. Thanks to being more resistant than granite, it is also one of the frequently used materials for kitchen countertops.

Home applications: kitchen countertops, flooring, wall coverings, vanity tops, stair steps, etc.

4. Marble

Marble is a metamorphic rock formed when another type of stone – limestone – is exposed to heat and pressure. Ask any QLD builders; they will warn you that marble is highly susceptible to damage as it is a soft rock type comprised of calcite and other minerals like graphite, iron oxides, micas, clay, and quartz.

Home applications: kitchen countertops, kitchen splashbacks, tub and shower surrounds, fireplace surrounds, entryway floors, etc.

5. Limestone

Limestone is a sedimentary rock mainly composed of calcite that is typically produced with a honed finish for a smooth texture and matte look. It is lovely but not  a high polished finish. Limestone comes in various colours – grey, ivory, or brown – and offers low-to-medium range of hardness.

Home applications: fireplace surrounds, kitchen countertops, flooring, accent walls, etc.

Now that you know the main characteristics of the most common types of natural stone for use in the home, it’s time to contact one of the leading residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane and ensure you get the best service.

Are you thinking about building your dream home? Looking for the perfect material for the Queensland region? Then look no further than Hebel. The choice of the external walls has a great impact on the overall design and energy efficiency of a home. Thanks to the beneficial characteristics of Hebel to both the builder and the homeowner, the expert QLD builders strongly recommend this material.

One of the leading residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane – Liona Constructions – explains this cutting-edge material. Continue reading to find out everything you need to know about Hebel.

What is Hebel?

Briefly put, Hebel is a very strong, versatile, high-performance material made from Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC). It is made in Australia by combining already available raw materials including gypsum, cement, lime, and sand with an expansion agent and water. What makes this material unique is being high-quality and lightweight, meaning that Hebel panels are ideal for solid foundations and external cladding.

What are the Benefits of Hebel?

Now that you know what Hebel is, let’s dig deeper into its benefits and learn why a growing number of QLD builders and construction companies are using it:

1. Strength and durability

First and foremost, as mentioned, Hebel panels are a solid and strong building material. Each panel has steel reinforcement with an added anti-corrosion layer to ensure optimal strength and durability.

2. Thermal insulation

Next, Hebel is an energy-efficient material with remarkable insulation qualities. QLD builders say it’s even better than brick veneer when it comes to heating and cooling, making it ideal for the Queensland climate. By using Hebel, you can significantly reduce your heating bill and save power, which is great for the environment.

3. Noise reduction

Not only does Hebel provide superior insulation properties but it also offers excellent sound insulation. That’s why most residential builders use the material for building dual occupancy homes to reduce the noise between neighbours. Alternatively, Hebel is also used for building homes near busy roads or high traffic areas.

3. Flooring solution

Thanks to its versatility, Hebel makes an excellent flooring solution, typically used in double-storey homes to improve thermal insulation and reduce noise transmission. The flooring system made from this material is called Hebel Powerfloor; it can be installed underneath timber, carpet, or tiles.

4. Speed and ease of construction

Another reason why QLD builders love this material is that building with Hebel is faster and easier. Indeed, one Hebel panel is the equivalent of 75 standard bricks. You can imagine how long it would take to build 75 bricks as opposed to one panel. Even more important, the speed and ease of build don’t sacrifice quality at all.

5. Fire resistance

Last but not least, Hebel is praised by both construction companies and future homeowners for its fire-resistant properties. Namely, it is a non-combustible material, ideal for building in bushfire zones. In addition, Hebel meets all the six BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) categories requirements.

The bottom line is that Hebel is the perfect material for building any Queensland home. When the time comes, don’t hesitate and contact Liona Constructions – one of the ultimate residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane – to ensure your dream home is built the right way.

Are you planning on building your new dream home? If yes, ensure you seriously consider the roof material and style you choose as the roof is one of the most critical parts of a home. In other words, your roof will take the brunt of the weather, keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, add value and a great street appeal to your home, and protect your home from leaks.

That said, one of the leading residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane – Liona Constructions – has come up with the following guide on choosing the right roof material and style for your home. Just read on to find out more.

Choosing the Right Roof Material

Ask any home builders Brisbane company about roofing materials available and they’ll all give you a choice of three: terracotta tiles, concrete tiles, and metal (i.e. corrugated blends of zinc, silicon, and aluminium). Yet, each of the options provides its own advantages and disadvantages.

1. Metal

Not only are metal roofs already popular in Australia, but new advanced metal roofing options are also gaining in popularity. The main advantage of metal roofs is that they are environmentally friendly and contribute to environmental sustainability as they mostly use recycled materials. However, they also come with a disadvantage as metal can rust.

2. Terracotta Tiles

According to residential builders, terracotta tile roofs are quite popular in Australia although they are more expensive than concrete tiles. Terracotta is a natural clay material effective for protection against the elements. Terracotta tiles can be found in different styles and colours and are recognized widely for offering great durability and energy efficiency.

3. Concrete Tiles

Similar to terracotta tiles, concrete tiles are also a durable and energy-efficient option regardless of being cheaper. The main advantage of such tiles is that they can be produced in numerous styles and resemble other materials. But, their disadvantage is that concrete is more porous, doesn’t provide a gentle sheen as terracotta, and fades quickly.

Choosing the Right Roof Style

Experienced construction companies and home builders Brisbane companies report that the following are the most common roof styles Australians choose:

1. Gable Roof

Also known as a pitched roof, this style is probably the most common of all. It consists of two sloping surfaces that meet at the top and often have dormers out the side.

2. Hip Roof

A hipped roof is actually a gabled roof but with more than two sloping sections. If you ask your residential builders to make a square hipped roof, then you will get a pyramid-like roof.

3. Flat Roof

You can guess from the name, a flat roof looks like it’s almost level. However, there’s still a gentle slope so that water can runoff. In general, modern homes have flat roofs.

4. Skillion Roof

Finally, a skillion roof consists of only one sloping section instead of two or more. In other words, this roof is a single surface that has a visibly significant pitch. As flat roofs, skillion roofs are also common in modern architecture.

Hope you find this article helpful. For further recommendations, don’t hesitate and contact Liona Constructions today – one of the leading residential builders and construction companies in Brisbane.