Author: Align Media

Benefits of Australian Made PVC Fencing

Post author By Align Media
Post date June 7, 2023

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of supporting local industries and reducing our carbon footprint. One area where this sentiment holds true is the use of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) products. While imported PVC goods may seem appealing due to lower prices, choosing Australian-made PVC products offers numerous advantages.

In this blog post, we will explore why opting for locally manufactured PVC items is a smart choice for consumers and the environment.

Quality Assurance: Australian-made PVC products adhere to stringent quality standards and undergo rigorous testing. These products are manufactured using advanced technologies and machinery, ensuring superior craftsmanship and durability. By choosing Australian-made PVC items, you can trust that you’re investing in high-quality products that meet or exceed industry regulations.
Support for Local Industries: By purchasing PVC products made in Australia, you contribute to the growth and sustainability of local businesses. Supporting domestic manufacturers helps preserve jobs and promotes economic stability within your community. Choosing local products fosters a sense of pride in supporting homegrown industries and ensures a stronger economy for future generations.
Reduced Environmental Impact: Importing PVC products from overseas often involves long-distance transportation, which contributes to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. By selecting Australian-made PVC goods, you significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, local manufacturers often prioritize sustainability and environmentally friendly practices, further reducing the environmental impact of their operations
Compliance with Australian Standards: Australian-made PVC products comply with stringent national regulations and safety standards. These standards encompass aspects such as product composition, labelling, and environmental impact. By opting for local products, you can have peace of mind knowing that your PVC items meet the necessary safety guidelines and ethical production practices.
Customization and Tailored Solutions: Choosing Australian-made PVC products offers the advantage of customized solutions. Local manufacturers can work closely with customers to meet their specific requirements. This flexibility ensures that you receive a product tailored to your needs while supporting local businesses.
Local Customer Support: When you purchase Australian-made PVC products, you gain access to reliable customer support and after-sales service. Local manufacturers are often more accessible, making it easier to address any concerns or queries you may have. By supporting domestic businesses, you can enjoy personalized assistance, quick responses, and prompt resolutions to any issues that may arise.

Choosing Australian-made PVC products over imported alternatives is a conscious decision that benefits both consumers and the environment. By supporting local industries, you contribute to economic growth, job creation, and sustainable practices. Additionally, you can be confident in the quality, safety, and reliability of locally produced PVC goods. So, the next time you need PVC products, make a choice that aligns with your values and helps build a stronger, greener Australia by opting for Australian-made options.

Patios

Winter is the best time to add a patio

Post author By Align Media
Post date June 7, 2023

Summer entertaining areas are made in Winter!

If you’re considering enhancing your outdoor living space with a patio area, you might be surprised to learn that winter is an ideal time to embark on this project. Let’s explore the advantages of building your patio area during the winter months in Australia, ensuring it’s ready to host unforgettable summer gatherings and festive Christmas celebrations.

Beat the Rush: Building your patio area during the winter allows you to beat the spring and summer rush. During warmer months, construction companies tend to be in high demand, leading to longer waiting times and potential delays. By starting your project in winter, you’ll have a better chance of securing the services and materials of your preferred contractor and avoiding the frustration of a crowded construction schedule.
Optimal Weather Conditions: Australia’s winters are generally mild, making it an excellent time for outdoor construction projects. Additionally, the lower humidity levels and reduced rainfall during winter ensure a more efficient and faster construction process, reducing the chances of weather-related delays.
Preparation for Summer Entertaining: By building your patio area in winter, you’ll have plenty of time to complete the construction and prepare your space for summer entertaining. Imagine having a beautiful outdoor ara just in time for barbecues, pool parties, and gatherings with friends and family.
Christmas Celebrations Made Memorable: In Australia, Christmas is synonymous with warm weather and outdoor festivities. Building your patio area in winter ensures that you have a dedicated space to host your Christmas celebrations. Whether you’re organizing a festive lunch, a family gathering, or a holiday party, a well-designed patio will provide the perfect backdrop.
Avoid Disruptions to Daily Life: Constructing a patio area inevitably involves some noise, dust, and disruptions. By undertaking the project during winter, you can minimize the inconvenience to your daily life. With most people spending more time indoors during colder months, the construction process will have a reduced impact on your routine and daily activities. Once summer arrives, you’ll have a completed patio area that seamlessly integrates with your lifestyle, without any ongoing construction disturbances.

Embarking on a patio construction project during winter in Australia is a smart decision for those looking to enhance their outdoor living space in time for summer and Christmas festivities. By beating the rush, taking advantage of optimal weather conditions, and allowing ample time for construction, you’ll have a beautiful and functional patio area ready to host memorable gatherings and celebrations. So, why wait? Start planning your dream patio with Platinum Property Improvements today and get ready to enjoy a delightful summer and a magical Christmas season in the comfort of your own backyard.

Industry News

Composite Decking Vs Timber Decking

Post author By Align Media
Post date November 23, 2022

When our clients are looking to add a deck to their property they often have questions regarding the benefits of composite decking compared to timber decking. Composite decking is a relatively new product but has gained traction quickly due to the minimal maintenance.

Both materials have their advantages and limitations. It is beneficial to weigh up the pros and cons so you can decide which option is most suitable for you.

In this article we compare composite decking to wood decking so that you can make an informed decision and install a deck that you can enjoy for many years.

Timber Decking Materials

Timber decking can be made from a variety of hardwood timber species such as jarrah, merbau, blackbutt, spotted gum and more. Choosing the best timber for decking will depend on a number of factors such as the climate where you live, where your deck will be installed, how much sunlight it will be exposed to and your preference of the look and feel of the timber.

Composite Decking Materials

Composite decking is manufactured using a combination of wood fibers and plastic which are held together using binding agents. As with timber decking, you should consider the location and weather conditions. There are a range of appearances available with composite decking, including styles that mimic natural timber.

Appearance

One of the major reasons why people choose timber decking is the natural beauty and richness of the material that other options can’t compete with. There is a warmth of feeling timber under your feet that composite material can’t replicate. Depending on the species you choose, colours can range from deep reds to light browns to radiant golds.

Some timber decking species like jarrah age gracefully even without regular recoating in oil and many people celebrate the natural weathered grey look of aged timber. Timber can have natural imperfections that are also cherished by timber decking enthusiasts.

Composite decking is manufactured to look like natural timber, however most can be easily distinguished from real timber. That’s because most composite boards look more consistent in colour and texture than real wood. Cheaper brands can look very fake and you definitely get what you pay for in this regard.

Price

Composite decking generally costs a little more than timber decking. A decent quality composite product tends to cost more per metre, combined with the fact that concealed fasteners are usually required which adds some cost.

In comparison, the most popular hardwood timber options are generally a little cheaper to purchase and install. Higher-end or rarer timber species tend to cost more than composite. For example, a popular timber at the moment called PCA (Pacific Crows Ash) will cost more than a composite material, but in general applications using timber will cost you less than composite decking.

Installation

Composite decking is often easier to install than timber decking because the composite boards are supplied in one length, usually longer than 4.2m.

In comparison, timber planks come in a variety of random lengths which can add extra time to the installation process as the installer needs to map out the most efficient way to install the timber with minimal wastage. Timber will often not be straight and can require some manipulation to install correctly.

Composite decking is not as flexible as real timber and may need extra supporting elements during installation.

Maintenance

It’s important to understand the maintenance that will be involved before purchasing your decking materials as this weighs into the decision. Minimal maintenance is the main selling point of composite decking when compared to timber.

Most timber would generally require at least yearly maintenance to keep it looking great and to ensure a longer lifespan for the deck, however this can vary depending on exposure to the elements and the type of timber. If you are not the type to enjoy spending hours maintaining your deck or not likely to pay someone to perform the maintenance for you, then perhaps you should consider the composite option.

Composite decking typically doesn’t require painting, staining, oiling or varnishing however some composite decking brands do require sealing to maintain the colour of the decking.

Timber requires more maintenance to preserve its appearance. Some species require cleaning and oiling less often, but the biggest factor is exposure to the sun. Overtime UV rays will remove the natural colour pigments in the wood, creating a greying effect. Always check with your timber supplier about the frequency and best methods for maintaining your timber decking.

Lifespan of the product

Composite decking is considered highly durable and will have a long lifespan with minimal maintenance. Timber decking can also be highly durable when looked after properly. Hardwood options like jarrah, ironbark and burnt ash outperform cheap options like treated pine and will last much longer.

Some timbers like blackbutt and spotted gum are naturally fire resistant, making them an excellent choice for areas that are prone to bushfires. Timber species like jarrah and ironbark are naturally resistant to termites and rotting and an option like pacific teak performs well in coastal areas where high salt levels are an issue.

Liveability

Well maintained timber decking is feels nicer to walk on than composite decking. When exposed to the hot sun, composite decking can become extremely hot to the point where you cannot walk barefoot on it. This can be a big consideration in particular where the customer has small children or pets that may be exposed to the extreme heat of the composite decking in Summer.

In contrast, timber regulates heat better and is cooler to walk on during the summer months.

When timber decking is not well maintained it can lose its structural integrity and may even splinter. It can also swell and shrink depending on humidity and weather conditions. If it swells too much it can come in contact with the other planks of timber and can permanently warp / change shape. Composite decking will not splinter like timber can and won’t change shape.

Composite V Timber. Which should you choose?

Ultimately this is a decision that only you can make. We are neutral in our opinion as we believe that both options can be suitable depending on the specifics of the project.

If you are looking for a highly durable, low maintenance option, composite might be right for you. However, if natural timber appearance, are worried about the surface becoming too hot and prefer a more environmentally sustainable option then timber decking might be a better option for you.

Feel free to contact us to discuss what option will be more suitable for you.