Modern Construction Methods for Knockdown Rebuilds

Knockdown and rebuild projects are trending in Australian cities; Melbourne in particular. They are a great way to rejuvenate a vintage property, get a fresh start on a dream block of land, or subdivide to acquire more assets.

The general population is also trending towards more compact and ecologically sustainable property designs, rather than the large, single-story Australian homes of the mid-1900s to the mid-2000s.

This significant trend towards knockdown and rebuild projects has promoted fast developments of construction methods. Read on to learn more about modern construction methods for knockdown and rebuild properties, and discover why more people are choosing Jem homes for their knockdown and rebuild Melbourne-wide. Read on to learn more.

What is knockdown and rebuild?

A knockdown and rebuild refers to the act of partially or completely knocking down an existing property in preparation for the remodelling or rebuilding of a new home or, in the case of subdividing, several dwellings.

Not all knockdown rebuilds require complete demolitions. In some cases, parts of the building are kept to celebrate the vintage design or preserve heritage-protected sections of the property.

Modern construction systems have surpassed traditional building methods that can be constructed more efficiently, provide superior structural integrity, are more energy efficient, and have a lower environmental impact.

This space is full of exciting developments, and many innovative knock-down and rebuild methods are currently in use, using a variety of new materials and intelligent engineering.

Prefabricated construction

Prefabricated construction involves fabricating major building components off-site and transporting them to the block ready to assemble in stages.

This may include major parts of the construction such as:

  • Wall panels

  • Floors

  • Roof trusses

  • Bathroom pods

  • and more

Where applicable, prefabricated components significantly reduce build times and can be more cost-effective.

Prefabricated housing components are also more energy-conscious and reduce waste and pollution due to their being constructed in controlled environments where it's easier to contain and ethically dispose of fabrication waste, unlike an open construction site.

Due to advancements in computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modelling (BIM), modular homes have become more precise, stylish and customisable, allowing for more choice in design options for property owners.

Modular building systems

While modular construction and prefabrication are closely related, modular homes tend to have some or all major construction completed offsite. The home is then delivered near complete via oversized transport utilities.

Sometimes called transportable homes, new, advanced modular buildings have come a long way since previous generations' old, square, shiplap buildings.

Modular systems, like tiny homes, shipping container designs, A-frame homes, and other similar systems can be considered part of the modular home movement. Modular systems also lend themselves to easy renovation or additions in the future.

SIP: Structural insulated panels

Eco-consciousness, sustainability, and energy efficiency are all major focuses in modern home design and construction. This is due to growing concern regarding climate change, ecological degradation, and the family home's carbon footprint.

A home's insulative properties can greatly impact excess energy consumption and a home’s energy costs. Older homes had relatively poor insulation by today's standards, and creating a rebuild with better insulative properties can pay dividends in the long term.

Effective new-wave insulation techniques are some of the best ways to significantly improve a home's thermal energy efficiency.

CLT: Cross-laminated timber

Cross-laminated timber is a strong wood product engineered by stacking lumber layers at right angles bonded with ultra-strong adhesives.

Some of the main benefits of CLT include:

  • Fire resistance

  • Good acoustic performance

  • Good thermal insulation

  • Low carbon emission

  • Sustainable wood-derived production

CLT reduces carbon emissions by sequestering carbon within the wood fibres, and the Australian industry runs on sustainable forestry practices.

Because of CLT’s exceptional strength, it makes it perfect for applying to dual, or multi-story buildings, whether for a single dwelling or multiple subdivided properties.

SFS: Steel framing systems

New-wave steel framing systems are fabricated with lightweight, high-tensile steel components that allow design flexibility and fast turnaround on knockdown and rebuild projects.

Other benefits of SFS include:

  • Rot proof

  • Termite proof

  • Pest resistant

  • Fire resistant

Steel framing systems promote superior structural integrity and have a long life expectancy, adding to the expected longevity of your property promoting a potential increase in future property value.

ICF: Insulated concrete foam

Insulated concrete foam promotes superior thermal insulation, making it one of the most energy-efficient building materials. ICF is also one of the strongest due to its ingenious design.

The system consists of interlocking foam panels that become the permanent formwork of the concrete poured throughout the stacked foam walls. This ingenious system also provides superior soundproofing, has high fire resistance, and requires a minimal labour force for operations.

AFT: Advanced framing techniques

Advanced framing techniques optimise the use of lumber and other materials, therefore reducing waste via minimising the amount of resources required, while still maintaining, or even improving, structural integrity.

Some AFT techniques include:

  • Panelised framing

  • Ladder framing

  • Optimised stud spacing

These techniques aim to enhance energy efficiency, improve insulation and streamline the knockdown and rebuild project.

Advanced framing techniques also allow a lot of flexibility for architectural experimentation.

Jem homes - knockdown and rebuild specialists

Knockdown and rebuild building methods are a great way to refresh the value of your assets, create a more eco-friendly, sustainable, and energy-efficient home, and a perfect way to optimise your assets if you are planning to subdivide.

We have built a reputation for excellence in knockdown and rebuilding Melbourne-wide. Whether you are looking to knock and rebuild your current home, or looking to subdivide your block for two or more dwellings, we have the experience and ability to customise a solution.

The team here at Jem Homes Custom Home Building Services have forged a reputation for transparency, trustworthiness, and prestige. From early planning to handover, we will guide you through every step as we knock down and rebuild your new property.

CALL US NOW OR BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION - https://www.jemhomes.com.au/contact

Connie Giordano