Frequently Asked Questions:
Decking
A well designed outdoor deck or balcony will add great value to your home, flat or unit and it will improve your lifestyle enormously.
read more...
Q: Do I need a building permit?
A: Building regulations vary from council to council and state to state. In some council areas a building permit is not required if the structure is free-standing and costs under $5000, however it must comply with Australian Building Codes, Siting, Setback, and other local building guidelines. Your local Outside Concepts branch can advise you.
Patio's
A Patio is usually described as an outdoor structure without a solid roof. They are often covered with vines or climbing roses, but often pergolas are covered with shade-cloth.
read more...
Q: How is the structure connected to dwelling?
A: There are various methods of connection, however, one of the more popular methods is to use a truss bracket system to connect the new structure to the roof frame of the house. These brackets are engineered for any wind load in Australia. This method of connection has a big advantage over the conventional fascia connection as it looks great and does not interfere with the existing guttering and down pipe of the dwelling.
Carports
A car is most peoples second biggest investment (after their house) and like any investment it needs protection to get the maximum enjoyment and return from it.
read more...
Q: What roof style should I select for outdoor structure?
A: Outside Concepts design the structure to suit the style and period of your house. We can match your existing roof pitch and design the new structure to be a part of your existing home.
Verandahs
A well designed verandah or patio can make a great improvement to your lifestyle, not only providing protection from the elements, but giving you a wonderful getaway for you to spend your free time in.
read more...
Q: What is cheaper?
A: In many cases a timber structure will be slightly cheaper than a steel structure, even after the cost of painting it. However, a timber structure is obviously made from a natural fibre and will expand and contract with the seasons. If you want no movement or maintenance, then you may prefer a colorbond steel solution.
Q: Can you manage the whole project, carport, verandah, roller door, concrete floor etc?
A: Although some branches are able to organise concreting, etc. for you, it requires a lot of coordination and time. It is usually more economical for the branch to introduce you to various trades, and negotiate a trade price (if possible). Your local branch will advise you.
Q: Is this your best price?
A: The prices we quote are very competitive. If you want a cheaper price, it will come at the expense of the job, for example, reducing size or shape of the structure or reducing the size or quantity of beams.
Q: Can you build in steel or timber (some companies only do one or the other)
A: Yes, we can build in steel or timber or even a combination of both.
Q: Can we use steel posts into the ground?
A: We can use treated timber or steel posts in ground. When painted, steel posts look just like timber.
Q: How long will it take?
A: The longest delay is waiting for council approval. This can take several weeks (longer in some council areas). Once approved most structures are installed within a few weeks.
Q: Is this your business?
A: Every branch of Outside Concepts is individually owned and all operators are required to follow strict guidelines regarding the quality of their work. Head Office conducts regular inspections to ensure that our quality standards are maintained.
Q: Do you guarantee ?
A: Yes, ten years structural guarantee.
Q: Can you paint it ?
A: Yes we can arrange a painter or we can have the material delivered earlier so you can paint it before we build.
Q: What is your payment terms?
A: Payment terms are 25% deposit, balance of materials upon delivery and installation fee upon completion. These terms may vary according to legislation in each state.
Q: Do you handle council applications?
A: Yes, we can apply for council approval on your behalf. We will submit all the required drawings, site plans and engineering requirements.
|