Expert advice – Completehome https://www.completehome.com.au Turn your house into a home... Thu, 13 Jul 2023 01:20:43 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.3.2 https://da28rauy2a860.cloudfront.net/completehome/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/24103109/complete-home-favicon.jpg Expert advice – Completehome https://www.completehome.com.au 32 32 Hungry Wolf Studio: Where Innovation Meets Architectural Concrete https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-articles/renovations-articles-expert-advice/hungry-wolf-studio-where-innovation-meets-architectural-concrete.html Thu, 13 Jul 2023 01:20:43 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=75225 Architecture is not merely about constructing; it is an art form that has the power to shape the way we experience and interact with our surroundings.

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Architecture is not merely about constructing buildings; it is an art form that has the power to shape the way we experience and interact with our surroundings.

At Hungry Wolf Studio, they have embraced this philosophy and have made it their mission to create architectural concrete that goes beyond functionality and transforms spaces into captivating works of art.

Our Approach: Innovation, Quality, and Collaboration

Every project at Hungry Wolf Studio is approached with a commitment to innovation, quality, and collaboration with its clients. They understand that each architectural endeavour is unique and requires a tailored approach. Their team of skilled professionals works closely with architects, developers, and discerning clients to understand their vision, goals, and requirements. By fostering a collaborative environment, they ensure that every project reflects the client’s aspirations while pushing the boundaries of design and construction.

Hungry Wolf Architectural Concrete Training

The Philosophy of Seamless Integration

At Hungry Wolf Studio, they firmly believe in the seamless integration of architectural concrete with the surrounding environment. They consider the context, purpose, and aesthetic appeal of each project, ensuring that our creations harmonize with the natural and built elements of the space. Our aim is not to impose our designs upon the environment but rather to enhance and elevate its existing beauty. This approach results in architectural concrete that becomes an integral part of the landscape, whether it’s a sprawling urban development or a serene natural retreat.

Established Partnerships and Expertise

Concrete architectural training

Hungry Wolf Studio has developed long-standing partnerships with architects, developers, and clients who value our expertise in architectural concrete. Our reputation for delivering innovative, sustainable, and visually striking solutions has earned us the trust and respect of our collaborators. They take pride in our ability to bring even the most ambitious architectural visions to life, utilizing our deep understanding of the artistic potential of concrete.

Pushing the Boundaries of Design and Construction

As a visionary architectural concrete firm, they are always seeking to push the boundaries of design and construction. Concrete, often associated with rigidity and solidity, possesses an artistic versatility that is often untapped. At Hungry Wolf Studio, they explore the creative possibilities of concrete, transforming it into awe-inspiring architectural elements. Through meticulous craftsmanship and cutting-edge techniques, they sculpt concrete into forms that defy convention and challenge preconceived notions of the material.

Innovation and Sustainability

Innovation and Sustainability

Innovation and sustainability go hand in hand at Hungry Wolf Studio. They believe that architectural concrete should not only be visually striking but also environmentally responsible. By utilizing sustainable materials, incorporating energy-efficient practices, and employing eco-friendly manufacturing processes, they ensure that our creations have a minimal impact on the environment. They are committed to building a better future through our dedication to both design excellence and ecological responsibility.

Hungry Wolf Studio is at the forefront of architectural concrete, combining innovation, quality, and client collaboration to create transformative works of art. With our dedication to seamless integration, expertise, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and construction, they continue to redefine the possibilities of architectural concrete. As they embrace sustainability and environmental consciousness, they strive to make a positive impact on the world through our exceptional creations. Hungry Wolf Studio is not just a studio; it is a testament to the power of architectural concrete to shape our world in breathtaking and sustainable ways.

For more information

Hungry Wolf Studio

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Thinking About a Fireplace for Your Home? https://www.completehome.com.au/interiors/interiors-lighting-heating/interiors-lighting-heating-fireplaces/thinking-about-a-fireplace-for-your-home.html Wed, 19 Oct 2022 04:50:05 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=70722 If you are thinking about installing a fireplace in your home, your first question is most likely “where do I start?”

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If you are thinking about installing a fireplace in your home, your first question is most likely “where do I start?”

Visit us at The Company Of Fire  we are a one stop shop, our team can assist you in this process and are here to simplify the renovation.

Firstly, you will need to know if you are wanting to burn wood, use electricity or burn gas.

Each product has distinctly different looks advantages.

Fireplace for Your Home Fireplace for Your Home

Electric fires are a contemporary looking flame and colour but can be set in a classic setting so can be used in most style of homes.

Real Flame have multiple models available, each with its own style, heating capability, audio effect, motion sensors, colour and flame displays.

The models come in a range of sizes so choosing one to suit your homes is now easy.=

The units only need a power source to run, not all options include a heating capability, but a wow factor is guaranteed.

Gas Fires have evolved the most over the years not only in the design but the technology that goes into them.  The new units are efficient, available to use natural gas (from the street) or LPG gas (from a bottle) connected to your home and come in a range of sizes and shapes. Landscape shape fireplaces typically set below a TV or into some joinery in the wall suit a modern home while our square shaped models are for those looking for a traditional setting.

The inclusion of a power balanced flue (include an exhaust pipe and a pipe to return the oxygen to the unit) gives the installer the option to include a Real Flame Space Heater in any home in any position. The pipes can run in the walls, ceiling or even under the floor. We recommend a site visit to confirm all aspects of the supply and install after you have visited our showroom to choose the product you love the most.

Wood Fires come in many shapes and sizes with varying heating capabilities. Generally, the bigger the fire the more wood you can burn so the more heat is generated.

Open fronted boxes usually have less of a heating capability and burn more fuel as you cannot control the amount of oxygen being added to the mix.

Slow combustion units with a glass door come with or without fans so the steel box can be heated to a temperature in a more controlled fashion and the heat can be delivered through radiant and or convection using the fan. These fires have been around for a very long time with a great deal of success, the shapes and style of modern boxes has changed considerably and can be used in all styles of homes.

The fires are installed in position where the flue (exhaust pipe) can terminate above the roof line.

There are perimeters around the position of the termination point and the local council website should be checked for an application for installation.

We recommend a visit to the showroom to see the fireplaces on display, have a chat with our team to discuss your project to see which fireplace is best for you, we can provide you with a free quote and discuss your next steps.

Looking forward to meeting you in the showroom soon.

What will you do in The Company of Fire.

Hero image credit: Built by MATTBUILD Pty Ltd.

For more information

The Company of Fire

 

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Luxurious Townhouses provides a Striking Juxtaposition to the Surrounding Streets https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-windows-doors/a-luxurious-townhouses-provides-a-striking-juxtaposition-to-the-surrounding-streets.html Mon, 04 Jul 2022 23:40:31 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=68920 In the suburbs of Melbourne, these luxurious townhouses provide a striking juxtaposition to the surrounding leafy streets and gently rolling terrain.

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In the north-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, these luxurious townhouses provides a striking juxtaposition to the surrounding leafy streets and gently rolling terrain.

With polished concrete, standing seam cladding and natural stone – modern lines are enhanced by accent and ambient lighting for aesthetics, energy efficiency and functionality.

Living-Area-with-Fireplace Bedoroom-with-a-View

The westerly front façade is shaded with horizontal battens to diffuse the light, and reduce unwanted heat gain, delivering privacy to the master bedroom which features Sliding Doors, Raked Fixed Lite Windows and Butt Joint Windows for an architectural touch. The open plan kitchen, living and dining are drenched in sunlight through 3-metre Fixed Lite, Highlight and Raked Fixed Lite Windows and Sliding Doors,  connecting the occupants to the rear courtyard; whilst an alcove through the dining offers tranquillity amongst the garden.

Monochrome-Hallway-and-living-area

The westerly front façade is shaded with horizontal battens to diffuse the light, and reduce unwanted heat gain, delivering privacy to the master bedroom which features Sliding Doors, Raked Fixed Lite Windows and Butt Joint Windows for an architectural touch.”

Outdoor-Alfresco-Area

Thoughtfully designed, both residences feature a central courtyard with vast 7m2 Max Lite Windows welcoming light through the northern elevation. Awning Windows with privacy laminate glass were specified to the three bedrooms on the third level, and a 6-metre wide Fixed Lite Window runs the length of the hall. This project takes full advantage of Rylock’s custom, high performance, Window and Door systems to highlight the architectural style and quality craftsmanship that defines this unique build.

Stunning-House-with-Tree-outside

Frame colour: Custom Black
Glazing: Grade A safety Toughened Low-e Double Glazing (Argon Fill)
Designer: Mills Gorman Architects
Builder: The Nessis Group
Photographer: Erhan Tirli

For more information

Rylock Windows & Doors

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10 Inspiring Grand Designs Australia Trends https://www.completehome.com.au/interiors/interiors-articles/interiors-articles-trends/10-inspiring-grand-designs-australia-trends.html Wed, 08 Jun 2022 00:06:12 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=68416 From natural colour palettes to stone archways, here are the top 10 design trends Big Ass Fans have spotted in Grand Designs Australia Magazine.

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From natural colour palettes to stone archways, here are the top 10 design trends Big Ass Fans have spotted in Grand Designs Australia Magazine.

The best colour palette has always been at our doorstep and it’s time to start taking cues from nature. Think natural colours, shades of greens from sage to forest borrowed from outside trees to allow for seamless indoor outdoor flow and lifestyle to match.

If natural is not sophisticated enough – navy hues, dark timbers and brass accents have shaped ‘riverside living’, a new take on ‘coastal living’ whilst still keeping relaxation front of mind.

This will come at no surprise, but Nordic design is here to stay with its captivating minimal lines, striking patterns, and natural timber. Whilst a constant in design, curved shapes are up and coming in Nordic, minimal architecture.

captivating minimal lines, striking patterns, and natural timber

The arches, stonework and whitewashed walls of Spanish influenced Californian Architecture is captivating the outdoor environment. Consider a central fire pit, light materials and decor, or gravel garden beds with cacti and palms reinforcing a desert theme.

If there is one thing that comes from Grand Designs is that Bigger is not better. Bigger spaces are not sustainable long term as they are dysfunctional spaces. Multiple rooms each with one sole purpose is wasteful. Mindful buildings and purposeful spaces are now incorporated into a buildings design.  Gone are the days of extravagant, glitz and glamour spaces!

Make the natural light a feature! Floor to ceiling windows to let light leak or including a void in the stairwell will draw attention to the natural light as it filters through the entire home.

Pay attention to the finer details when it comes to your home. The skirting chosen, tapware and panel are just as important as the marble kitchen bench top.

natural light a feature

Sustainable design in the use of local context and climate. Ceiling fans are a key design feature to these types of homes, increasing comfort by introducing air movement. Big Ass Fans use a very small amount of electricity over traditional fans and save you money in the long run. Conventional fans start at 90 Watts, Big Ass Fans start at 2 watts and go up to 30 watts. Utilising the local climate and ceiling fans to maximise comfort while minimising energy use puts homeowners back in touch with the environment in which they occupy and encourages ventilation, all which provide a happier, healthier and more environmentally responsible home.

Design a home not just for aesthetics, but your health and wellbeing. Research shows the presence of wood can lower blood pressure, heart rate, increase productivity and positively impact our emotions and mood. Natural, insulating and warm, the innate attraction to nature, in particular timber, is a key to our aesthetic, intellectual cognitive and even spiritual satisfaction.

crisp white palette

Let there be White. Consider the crisp white palette layered with modern metallic fittings. By using the white-on-white aesthetic and displaying different textures, you can breathe fresh new life into your home. To elevate a coastal summer house, the Haiku Driftwood is a matt white finish that adds dimension and texture to a space, while being a fresh white for the home.

For more information

Big Ass Fans

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Intelligent Solar Solutions for Your Home https://www.completehome.com.au/renovations/renovations-projects/renovations-projects-solar/intelligent-solar-solutions-for-your-home.html Tue, 07 Jun 2022 23:46:50 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=68413 It’s no secret that Australia is adopting to a greener future, with everyday life now more focused on recycling, reducing pollution and carbon footprint.

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It’s no secret that Australia is adopting to a greener future, with everyday life now more focused on recycling, reducing pollution and carbon footprint.

That’s why Australia and New Zealand was the first country in the world to receive the premium range of solar inverter products for the world-famous General Electric (GE) brand.

With elegant design, the latest safety features, intuitive user controls and remote monitoring from your phone or tablet, the GE range of solar products provides the ultimate solution for any residential solar system, giving you energy independence and reducing your electricity bills.

The compact, but powerful range of GEP inverter products are designed to harness solar energy from sunrise to sunset, regardless of weather conditions. With their elegant design and colour LED screens, the GEP range also offers features such as “Smart Shadow Scan” where the inverter scans and works at maximum power with solar panels, minimizing the impact of any shadows caused by objects such as trees, buildings or debris.

The GEH range of hybrid (battery) inverters are suited for residential properties, and have been designed to cope with the most complex rooftops for multiple solar arrays. The GEH is compatible with a variety of high voltage solar batteries and is the ultimate solution for maximising your solar power generation, and storing it for you to consume in comfort and security, including UPS-Level (Uninterrupted Power Supply) switching, keeping essential loads powered in the event of a power blackout.

GE Platinum Retailers

Our Platinum Retailer program comprises of a shortlist of selected solar retailers around Australia that provide an unmatched level of customer service for your solar power needs using GE products, from initial consultation, to impeccable home installation and reliable after-sales support. Just look for the GE Platinum Retailer logo.

Photography courtesy of GE Platinum Retailer, Six Star Plus

Visit https://au.gesolarinverter.com and use the Map on the bottom of our home page to find your nearest GE Platinum Retailer!

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Stylish sinks for Australian homes https://www.completehome.com.au/kitchens/stylish-sinks-for-australian-homes.html Wed, 25 May 2022 06:16:33 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=67967 Kitchen sinks have become a focal point for kitchen designs and selecting the right one is a combination of factors that include a sink that compliments your design, fits your budget and most importantly provides the optimal functionality for your home

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Kitchen sinks have become a focal point for kitchen designs and selecting the right one is a combination of factors that include a sink that compliments your design, fits your budget and most importantly provides the optimal functionality for your home

Jason, Häfele’s Sink and Tap Category Manager has a few expert tips on how to select the right sink for your home.

Materials:

Stainless Steel is a popular option and no wonder! They are affordable, durable, easy to clean and the non-porous surface is easy to sterilise — removing harmful germs and bacteria.
The composition of stainless steel is important and good indicator of quality – look for the ideal ratio of 18% chrome and 10% nickel, often referred to as 18/10 grade or ‘304 stainless steel’.

stylish kitchen with sink and countertop

Brushed metal or textured metal sinks need to be manufactured from high quality materials to avoid issues of scratching or colour wear. ‘PVD’ finish is a premium coating technique and is three-times harder than standard stainless-steel finishes and achieves six times greater adhesion than ordinary electro-plated surface technology.

PVD coating shows fewer fingerprints and can be easier to clean and maintain than standard stainless steel.

Kitchen design

Composite quartz kitchen sinks are made from 80% granite or quartz with 20% acrylic resin and are heat, scratch and stain resistant making them incredibly hardwearing. This material is also non-porous which is perfect if you’re looking for an odour free, hygienic option.

A great benefit of these sinks is the are available in matte black or matte white, and these modern sinks fit seamlessly into contemporary kitchens.

Kitchen countertop with black sink and stools

Drop-in or under-mount?

Drop-in sinks rest on the benchtop and have a visible lip. These are a great option if you’re looking to makeover your kitchen or laundry on a budget. Alternatively, and under-mount sink attached beneath the counter and creates a seamless integration with your benchtop.

These are also super easy to keep clean as there is no lip for dirt and grime to build-up. Whichever mounting option you choose, there are a range of models to suit every style.

Matte Black sink with white counter kitchen

Size:

Consider the needs of your home. A single bowl sink is perfect for a couple but would not be suitable for a family of 5. Double bowl sinks can handle almost any size pot or pan and are great for families that like to cook. Sinks with an integrated draining board are a good idea if you have delicate glassware or special items you prefer to handwash.

And we’ve never met someone who complained their sink was “too big”, so if you have the space and budget consider a double bowel sink, you can thank-us later!

White sink

Cleaning and maintenance:

Different materials require different types of care and maintenance. A busy family home that uses lots of pots and pans might require a sink that is durable and easy to clean like stainless steel. A new high spec kitchen may prioritise a feature sink that is stylish but may require a little more care such a quartz composite.

Green kitchen cabinets with pendant lighting

Ready to create your dream kitchen?

• Check-out our Häfele Home Instagram and Facebook for inspiration
• Experience our products at one of our 8 showrooms across Australia
• View our product range at www.hafelehome.com.au
• Create your custom mood board with Häfele at www.stylesourcebook.com.au
• Find a Häfele Studio Partner and start creating your dream kitchen.

To book a complimentary 1-hour showroom appointment with a dedicated consultant please visit our website to find a time that is right for you: www.hafelehome.com.au/pages/contact-us

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Are Allergies Taking it Out of You? https://www.completehome.com.au/interiors/are-allergies-taking-it-out-of-you.html Wed, 25 May 2022 06:16:10 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=67969 It's a beautiful time of the year. Flowers are blooming, birds are singing, the sun is out, and we welcome the longer days and warmer nights.

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It’s a beautiful time of the year. Flowers are blooming, birds are singing, the sun is out, and we welcome the longer days and warmer nights with open arms.

But for hay fever, allergy and asthma sufferers, it can be a miserable time of the year. Blooming flowers means an increased concentration of pollen in the air, which can cause a runny, itchy or congested nose; frequent sneezing; itchy or watery, irritated eyes and difficulty breathing.

Allergies Effecting your home

While it is impractical for asthma and hay fever sufferers to stay indoors all the time, there are some practical things that can be done to reduce seasonal pollen and allergen exposure, and limit its effects on your health. So, what do the experts recommend?

  • Keep up-to-date with the air quality in your area everyday by visiting the Pollen Index Forecast or the Air Quality Index.
  • Reduce exposure to trees, grasses and weeds. For example, don’t spend time gardening, and avoid going out till later in the day, when pollen levels are generally not as high.
  • If thunderstorms are forecast for your area, try to remain indoors. The combination of rain, wind and humidity can significantly increase allergens in the air during or immediately after thunderstorm activity.
  • Keep windows up when driving. Use the car’s recirculating air conditioning mode if you need to prevent exposure to allergens from your air vents.
  • Glasses or sunglasses can protect your eyes outdoors. Close the windows when you move indoors.
  • Consult your doctor or get a referral for a trained allergist to seek professional advice on what could be causing your allergies.
  • Consult your pharmacist about over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines or nasal sprays to manage your symptoms.

Something many people don’t consider is the air quality inside their homes. It stands to reason that if the air in your house comes from outside, the pollen count in the air you breathe inside can also aggravate asthma or allergies.

Recognising this, Panasonic has developed an Air Conditioner with a built-in air purifier. The innovative nanoe™ X air purifying system actively cleans the air within the room to create a healthier indoor living environment. Using water molecules filled with OH radicals, the system generates 4.8 trillion tiny molecules per second which cling to and inhibit airborne pollens, allergens, bacteria, viruses and mould.

Cleverly, the air-purification system can run independently of the air conditioner, offering the versatility of purifying your indoor air without the additional cost of using the cooling or heating functions.

 air purification

The nanoe™ X system is officially recognised by the National Asthma Council Australia’s community program, Sensitive Choice, as an air purifying solution suitable for those with asthma or allergies.

But air purification doesn’t just assist asthma and hay fever sufferers. The average person breathes in 18kg of air every day, meaning everyone can benefit from cleaner, fresher air and a healthier and more comfortable home environment.

Panasonic has always endeavoured to deliver more than just cooling or heating solutions. We leverage all our ventilation and purification technologies to improve your indoor air quality to help make a noticeable difference to your health, comfort and the quality of air in your home. Check out our latest range.

For more information

Panasonic Air Conditioning

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The Importance of Pure Water for your Kitchen https://www.completehome.com.au/kitchens/the-importance-of-pure-water-for-your-kitchen.html Tue, 17 May 2022 02:37:25 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=67745 Pure water is critical for good health. It makes sense to choose a tapware brand that’s as passionate about providing clean water as you.

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Pure water is critical for good health. It makes sense, then, to choose a tapware brand that’s as passionate about providing clean water as you are about drinking it.

Thankfully, GROHE attaches top priority to drinking-water hygiene, allowing you to enjoy the very best water in your own home.

Faucets equipped with GROHE Zero® technology prevent the faucet body from releasing lead into the drinking water. The internal water conduit is made from a high-quality synthetic material to ensure your water reaches a superior safety standard and contains no traces of lead or nickel.

This intelligent tapware technology is available in GROHE’s Essence Professional, Eurosmart and SWIFT Kitchen Tapware ranges, so regardless of your design style and specifications, there’s a health-conscious tap to meet your needs.

Moving your tap is simple with GROHE. Silkmove Technology allows you to transition your tap on and off with ease, and with the signature GROHE 15-year warranty, you can rest easy knowing that your tap will perform today as well as it does in years to come.

Of course, it makes sense that GROHE is brought to you by the world-renowned LIXIL group, a company dedicated to making better homes a reality for everyone, everywhere.

For more information

Lixil

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Van Gogh and Knight now Available in Dual Format https://www.completehome.com.au/interiors/van-gogh-and-knight-now-available-in-dual-format.html Tue, 03 May 2022 01:24:13 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=67449 Karndean Design Flooring is excited to announce the latest addition of new designs to their Knight Tile and Van Gogh Ranges.

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As a trusted market leader in Australia and New Zealand, Karndean Design Flooring is excited to announce the latest addition of new designs to their Knight Tile and Van Gogh Ranges.

Alongside their on-trend timber and stone inspired designs, game-changing enhancements to their technical specifications now provide even more versatility for consumers and designers alike with our new dual format offering allowing you to choose the design you want, in the format you need.

First choose your design…

From the timeless appeal of European oak to the character and beauty of quintessential Australian hardwood species. Cool concrete to slate in a range of on-trend colours, tones and textures. With Karndean you’re spoiled for design choices.

Karndean’s popular Van Gogh range captures the look and feel of real timbers. From classic European species such as Oak, Elm, Maple and Birch to Australian timbers including Blackbutt and Spotted Gum, the Van Gogh range celebrates the intrinsic character and rich diversity in colour, tone and texture of the world’s most beautiful timbers. This carefully curated collection of 20 wood-look planks is available in gluedown (1219.2mm x 177.8mm) or our 5G® click-locking system rigid core format (1220mm x 180mm).

The Knight Tile Range offers 16 wood and 6 stone inspired designs. Timber look planks are available in gluedown (1219.2mm x 177.8mm) or our 2G™ click-locking system rigid core formats (1220mm x 180mm).  Choose from new Australian hardwood species inspired planks or our selection of colours, tone and style in 13 distinctive oak designs. The latest addition is Blond Character Oak that was inspired by planks reclaimed from an old wind-powered sawmill in Amsterdam, a beautiful story and a beautiful flooring choice.

The Knight Tile stone collection provides a choice of six on-trend flooring designs, from the contemporary cool of Smoked Concrete to Honed Pebble Slate, in a versatile tile size of 304.8mm x 457.2mm. Find your inspiration in these beautiful colours, designs and a lightly textured surface that enhances their authentic good looks.

..then choose the format that you need

Gluedown or rigid core? Your choice of format will depend on your flooring project. You may even use both to achieve the look you want throughout your space. With a choice of gluedown and rigid core formats, we’ve made it easier to use the design you want in the format that you need. For example, you could lay your preferred planks or tiles in gluedown format along a hallway and then easily extend the look over an existing tiled floor using the same design in rigid core.

You may wish to create a beautiful design feature in an entrance such as a herringbone pattern using gluedown oak planks and then extend the same oak through the rest of the space in a straight lay using rigid core.  Adaptable, flexible and versatile, dual format lets you express your style seamlessly throughout your project.

For more information

Karndean Design Flooring

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Will Solar Power Still Work on Cloudy or Rainy Days? https://www.completehome.com.au/expert-guides/will-solar-power-still-work-on-cloudy-or-rainy-days.html Mon, 02 May 2022 04:47:38 +0000 https://www.completehome.com.au/?p=67444 Did you know that Australia has the highest solar radiation per square metre of any continent on the planet?

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Did you know that Australia has the highest solar radiation per square metre of any continent on the planet?

At 58 million petajoules per year, it’s approximately 10,000 times larger than our total energy consumption1. Which is why for most Australians, using the abundant sunshine to power your home and heat your water makes so much sense2.

But despite the growing popularity of solar (2.66 million smart Australian households already have solar panels or collectors on their rooftops!), there’s one question we’re often asked; “Will my solar system still work if the sun isn’t shining?”

The short answer is yes. In this article, we will explore how solar still works to reduce your energy consumption and carbon emissions even on cloudy or rainy days. Let’s start with solar hot water before we move to solar power.

Does solar hot water work on cloudy or rainy days?

A solar water heater will still deliver hot water on cloudy and wet days.

Anyone who has ever been sunburnt on an overcast day knows that it takes more than a few clouds to block out the sun. While clouds may filter out some of the brightness, the majority of sunlight still gets through. So if you have solar hot water collectors on your rooftop, rest assured, they’re still working to produce hot water even on those wet and cloudy days.

However, continuous days of cloudy weather can sometimes reduce the efficiency of your solar water heater. Fortunately, Solahart Solar Hot Water systems have a backup available to ensure you can still enjoy instant hot water when the sun isn’t shining.

All Solahart Solar Water Heaters come with an inbuilt electric booster. This means that as soon as the water temperature drops below a certain level, the booster element kicks in and heats the water to the correct temperature.

Solahart also has an optional gas-boosted model available where boosting only occurs when hot water is being used.

When a hot water tap is opened, solar hot water flows from the solar water heater through a solar-compatible continuous flow gas water heater. Temperature sensors within this gas heater measure the incoming water temperature, and if the water temperature is less than a pre-set minimum, the gas heater ignites and immediately brings it up to the set level.

The choice of which booster is right for you will ultimately depend on key factors such as your solar hot water system, the climate where you live and your roof inclination.

Will my solar power panels work on cloudy or rainy days?

Like solar hot water collectors, solar power panels still work on cloudy days. According to The Environment and Energy Study Institute in the USA3, even in partly cloudy weather, solar cells could still operate at 80% of their maximum output. Because solar panels can use direct and indirect sunlight to generate power they will still work when the light is reflected or partially blocked by clouds.

Meanwhile, rainy weather can also help to keep your panels operating efficiently by washing away any dust or dirt4. However, if it’s consistently cloudy for several days, the efficiency of the solar panels may be reduced as there are less particles of light available to create a high flow of electricity.

Many Australians are also choosing to add a home battery to their solar power and store the energy they’ve generated throughout the day, for use later on. It’s a smart way to offset your electricity costs and maximise your solar energy usage.

For more information

Solahart

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