RETHINK Building: Maximise Onsite Efficiency

As the construction industry hits more speed bumps, Bowens strive to deliver new and innovative products and systems for our customers. We have been spending time on-site trying to understand some of the biggest onsite challenges and what products could potentially ease some of that pain.

The knock-on effect from interest rate hikes, the introduction of NCC changes and the increased cost of living can lead to a host of issues including blowouts in build times and increased costs in scaffolding and site hire, to name a few. Unfortunately, these issues inevitably have an impact on builders’ profits. However, utilising products that increase the speed of construction and minimise the number of trades on site, can help to ease costs and maximise building efficiency.

Here are some of our top picks.

Spantec™

Spantec subflooring system set up.

Spantec™ has been developed to offer the quickest and easiest sub-floor system you’ll ever build. This system can be used for custom designs or individual components, making this structural system a versatile choice. It can significantly reduce the number of piers required, meaning less concrete and faster subfloor installation. Plus, being made from steel it is bush-fire resistant and termite resistant. Its high load capacities and long spans make it perfect for custom builds, sloping sites and flood zones.

“To be able to feel the strength of the steel gave us both the extreme confidence that it was the right system for us,” said Michael Pollock from Privilege Homes in a recent interview with Bowens.

Spantec™ is made from pre-engineered galvanised steel beams with a zinc coating, making it highly durable. However, despite its strength, it’s a lightweight structure that is easy to handle, making it an efficient and cost-effective construction material for both residential and commercial projects.

Click IN Systems™

Close up of click in system bracket.

Click IN Systems™ utilises a combination of mounting brackets and a series of weather barriers and seals, to offer fast and efficient window installation that is low in cost and saves time onsite.

The self-adhesive engineered weather barriers provide an airtight seal that prevents condensation build-up, ensuring compliance with moisture and condensation regulations. The adaptive seal and flexible sub-seal components offer a watertight and vapour-tight finish. This avoids moisture ingress for long-lasting performance. Click IN Systems™ simple installation method allows for flexibility, making it suitable for tight deadlines or coordinating with other trades onsite.

“It ticks the boxes. It insulates, creates a weathertight seal and allows the house to continue to breathe,” says Bowens Innovation & Business Development Manager.

wedi® Shower System

wedi installation as corners are getting filled in.

wedi® has quickly become a favourite among builders. Engineered in Germany, wedi® streamlines the construction process, allowing a standard bathroom to be installed, waterproofed, and ready for tiling in as fast as 4-hours.

“It’s a clean way to do it, less mess, less wastage because you can utilise off-cuts,” Ryan Van Berlo from EcoLiv modular homes.

Additionally, wedi® stands out as the only shower and bathroom system with CodeMark certification that offers a comprehensive 10-year system warranty. Removing multiple trades from the equation, and offering a fast and easy modular installation process, wedi® is the ultimate product to save time onsite.

“It helps with our scheduling because we can do it ourselves. I can schedule on a certain day to do the wedi® install, and within the next day or two I can have the tiler in and working,” Ryan adds.

GAF Roofing Asphalt Roof Shingles

A builder using GAF Roofing Asphalt Roof Shingles.

Another innovative product is the Asphalt Roof Shingles by GAF Roofing. GAF is an asphalt shingle offering a sleek, slimline roof covering designed for Australian conditions. It creates a fresh and exciting new look for the homeowner, and for the builder, it speeds up construction and reduces reliance on tilers and roofing plumbers.

In addition, these shingles are safe to walk over, are resistant to algae growth, will not scratch or dent and are maintenance-free. It’s lightweight, and simple to install, using similar methods to cladding systems, meaning it’s ideal for carpenters to install. It’s a win-win!

If you are interested in learning how these products can help speed up construction and reduce reliance on additional trades, contact your account manager, or local Bowens team. If you’d like to know what products are trending in the building and construction industry and why, contact Product Innovation and Business Development Manager, Andrew Healey at Andrew.Healey@bowens.com.au.

RETHINK Building: Maximise Onsite Efficiency

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