July 2008

A water efficient garden

Designing a water efficient garden is as easy as following some simple steps and making small changes around the garden. A water efficient garden is one that meets your lifestyle needs and copes with the local climatic conditions, without wasting water.

Local variations in the climate include humidity, temperature, rainfall and evaporation. Watering may be required when evaporation exceeds rainfall for extended periods, leading to reduced soil moisture content.

The key design objective of a water wise garden is to capture as much of the natural water from rain and reduce evaporative losses, to maximise the water content of your garden soil. This not only extends the period your garden can survive on stored moisture without the need for watering, but also makes use of the collected rainwater, to water the garden when needed.

There are a few factors to take into consideration in your initial planning. They include deciding how each section of the garden is to be used, and how much space is required for each area. Incorporate storage and use of rainwater in your design by allocating an area to install a rainwater tank. Rainwater is a valuable natural resource that can be collected as an environmentally responsible way to provide real cost savings. A rainwater tank can save up to 100,000 litres of water a year in an average home. Use our online rainwater calculator to work out how much water you can save. Stratco manufactures a wide range of quality rainwater tanks in slim, square, round and modular designs to complement any outdoor environment. Be sure to consult with your local Stratco Home Improvement Store in choosing the best tank for your situation.

Consider the site's drainage patterns to capture as much of the natural water from rainfall as possible. You need to gather information about the orientation of the sun, as well as the position and nature of any existing vegetation. This helps you select and position suitable plants to promote water efficiency.

Shade from trees and structures reduces water loss and helps create a comfortable living environment. Identify areas where cooling from shade might be of benefit.

Choose low water use plants which are appropriate for the soil conditions and are suited to your local area and group plants which require similar amounts of water. Your local Stratco Home Improvement Store can help you choose plants that are most water efficient for your local conditions.

Improve soil condition to retain more moisture in the soil by adding organic material such as compost and soil conditioner. Use mulch around the base of plants to minimise evaporation, maximise water retention and reduce weed growth while protecting your plants from frost and heat.

Consult with your local Stratco Home Improvement Store about choosing a watering technique which best suits your garden. Dripper irrigation systems will efficiently supply water to your plants, delivering single droplets which will soak into the soil & reduce evaporation. Wider or longer garden beds can be cost effectively watered using perforated and porous hoses. These can be buried under mulch or soil to deliver an even amount of water. For a more detailed system, consult with an irrigation specialist.

The final step is to put all your ideas together in a master plan. This will incorporate your design scheme, water management arrangements, and define the various spaces in your plan. The design should be simple to ensure easy maintenance and water use efficiency. Visit Stratco for all the products and advice you need to complete your project.

Be aware of water restrictions in place in your area and water your garden only as restrictions allow.

June 2008

Tile or steel roofing?

When building a new home, one of the choices that you will need to make is the type of roof that you like. There are a number of factors that will influence your decision.

The first is appearance. Steel has smoother, cleaner lines, can be curved or shaped more easily to suit different roofing styles, and has a wider range of colours as well. The roofing colour matches the gutter which is another plus.

There is nothing quite so traditionally Australian as a roof made of corrugated steel so whether you are updating an older home or building a new one steel works really well. Next time you're out walking, make a point of looking at the all the houses you pass. The chances are that a high proportion of their roofs will be manufactured from corrugated steel.

Then there is strength, and suitability for bushfires. In both cases steel comes out on top, as unlike tiles, steel roofing can't break, and burning embers are not easily able to penetrate in strong wind situations.

Weight is important, as according to the Residential Timber Frame construction standard, steel roofing only weighs around 10 kg/m2, compared with tiles at about 60 kg/m2, with steel putting less weight on roof and wall framing, and footings. Steel also does not absorb water which can dramatically increase the load on your home after rain.

This stalwart of building materials has been around since last century and probably has been used on more houses than any other building product. Many homes built early in the states history with steel corrugated roofing still have quite serviceable roofs.

The reason our pioneers opted for corrugated steel, usually with a galvanised coating, was because of its durability in Australia's harsh conditions - snow in the highlands in winter and scorching sun for much of the year. Another major reason was because it was cost competitive, and easy to transport over the long distances involved in Australia.

Little has changed over the last century. Corrugated steel is still in strong demand as roofing and fencing but, instead of it being rather plain and in a standard corrugated style, today's steel sheeting comes in a range of attractive, baked on colours and profiles to suit every architectural style. It also can be produced to almost any length desired. The modern high fashion colours used today have been significantly improved during recent years. Steel roofs are guaranteed for at least 15 years.

At Stratco we continue to see strong demand for steel roofing, and are experienced in assisting customers in making the right choice. People renovating older style houses no longer opt for a tiled roof of steel or aluminium cladding - they recognise the value in replacing original corrugated steel roofs with today's modern version.

Whatever your need, and whatever way you look at it, steel roofing makes a lot of sense.

June 2008

Garden border

This week why not involve the children in a simple project to tidy up the garden?

If you've got flower beds that are overflowing onto the lawn or the paved area it's an easy and simple job to keep them contained using steel strips to form a border. Steel edging will stop bark chips and dirt from spilling out of the garden bed and also has the added advantage of acting as guide for lawnmowers.

Steel edging is inexpensive and easy to install. Each steel strip is 100mm wide and six metres in length. You'll find when laying the steel strips that they are easy to work with and if you want to soften the look of tour garden beds, they will easily follow any curves you want to incorporate.

To lay the edging, dig along the area where the strip is to be placed and stand the steel into the groove, using small tent pegs to hold it in place.

Tramp down the loose soil along the edge of the strip to give it support and a neat appearance. Once the spoil has settled, usually after four or five months, the pegs can be removed if necessary.

It's best to keep a lip of about 25mm above the ground or the level of your lawn or 50mm above a garden bed of bark, scoria or leaves.

A tip. Steel edging also is ideal for use as formwork when concreting, especially when laying a curved pathway or concrete garden edging. For further details on using steel garden strips visit your nearest Stratco Home Improvement Store.

May 2008

Solar power

Generate your own Electricity with Stratco Solar Panels.

Stratco's Grid Connected Solar Electricity Generation System has been specifically designed and engineered to enable you to convert sunlight to green power for your house or small business. Designed to comply with all relevant Australian standards and available in 5 different sizes, there is sure to be a Stratco Solar system to meet your needs. With comprehensive advice available from Stratco's friendly Solar team and a full installation sevrice available, Stratco's Solar range is all you need to start your own green power station.

Generating your own electricity can significantly reduce your current electricity bill and has the potential to save you even more in the future as electricity prices increase. The addition of a Stratco Solar system to your home or business will further increase the appeal to prospective buyers by adding real value to your property. Stratco's Solar kits can not only meet your current requirements but can be expanded as your electricity demand grows. Use our online Solar Power Calculator to find a unit that meets your needs.

May 2008

Re-roofing

One of the advantages of corrugated steel is that it lasts for a very long time. Even today you can often see roofing that was installed early in the state's history, and is still doing a great job keeping the weather at bay.

But when its time to replace the old roofing its good to know that it's not a difficult job.

Before you start, make sure that you measure all ridge, barge cappings and flashings as these will probably need replacing as well. Stratco are able to supply everything that you will need for the project, including tools. Then measure your roof sheets and make a list so that you know where the replacements are to be located. Remember that today's roofing is available in long lengths, unlike some of the early steel used on our homes. That's going to make your repair easier.

Older roofing was generally installed with nails, unlike the modern screws of today that offer easier fixing, and better fastening properties. So the first job is to pull out the nails using a small pinch bar (a steel bar with a special head that grips the nails), or claw hammer, and remove the sheets.

Replacement is even easier, just locate the sheets on the roof in the same position, and screw though the sheets or cappings into the purlins using a type 17 self drilling self piercing screw.

This is a project that you can do, and the best way to find out more about the small "tricks of the trade" that will assist you is to visit your nearest Stratco Home Improvement Store.

May 2008

Solar hot water

Heating water is the largest single source of greenhouse emissions in Australian homes.

Stratco offers two environmentally sound and technologically advanced ways to provide your home with all the hot water your family needs.

A solar water heater uses the radiant heat from the sun to heat water which passes through collectors located on the roof of the house. Heat pumps use the reverse of a refrigeration process, transferring heat from the air to a hot water tank.

Solar water heaters have boosting systems for days when solar input is lower than usual due to cloud cover, with systems designed for boosting by natural gas or an electric element. Even in cooler southern parts of Australia, solar energy is able to supply up to 80 per cent of annual hot water energy needs.

Though solar input is maximised when collectors are installed facing north, there is some flexibility in orientation, so almost all houses should have a suitable roof area for collectors. Use our online Solar Hot Water Calculator to find a unit that meets your needs.

April 2008

Fencing

Fencing has always been the best way to keep unwelcome guests out - both animal and human - and Stratco Neighbourhood Fencing offers a large range of styles and materials.

These days style and appearance is also very important, especially at the front of your home, where it contributes to the all important first impression of your property.

Developed by Stratco many years ago, the renowned Good Neighbour fence is still the most popular choice for many home owners today as it is as tough as it is attractive.

Stratco Good Neighbour fencing has a modular panel design with its post and track profiles offering improved strength, and greater flexibility for sloping sites.

Neither neighbour needs to compromise as there are no unsightly posts and rails. Combined with Stratco's unique Wavelok fence sheet, which is identical on both sides, with Stratco Neighbourhood fencing everyone gets to be on the good side.

Stratco Good Neighbour fencing is also available with the traditional Superdek fence sheets, or a corrugated infill that provides a completely different, but very contemporary look.

A range of screen top fencing is also available that includes a lattice top panel as part of the design. This creates a higher fence but still allows the light and breeze to flow through while providing a more secure enclosure, preventing inquisitive neighbours from checking to see if your grass really is greener.

One great thing about Stratco Neighbourhood fencing is its flexibility. As well as a practical and attractive front yard fencing, panels can be used as garden screens for compost bins or garden patches or simply to divide the backyard into zones.

Using Stratco Good Neighbour fencing you can create an attractive and innovative border for your home that keeps unwanted guests out and improves the look - and value - of your home. For more information about Neighbourhood fencing visit your nearest Stratco Home Improvement Store.

March 2008

Choosing a shed

"It has been said that a shed is to a man what a handbag is to a woman - both contain all the essentials for surviving in the modern world and in the same way that no decent man would ever consider looking in a woman's handbag uninvited, so no reasonable woman would dream of setting foot in a man's shed." - Men and Sheds by Gordon Thorburn

The size of the shed is often determined by the application, the available space, budget, or the wife!

Stratco sheds come in a wide range of styles and sizes to suit every household situation. Whether you are looking for a small storage shed for the garden, or a multipurpose workshop to house one or more cars, Stratco have a shed to suit your needs.

Stratco Sheds are built to last, and designed to look good both inside and out. They are available in a wide selection of attractive colour finishes and are easy to install. They are available with optional louvre or sliding aluminium windows.

Along with all the tools, garden equipment and other toys to fill your shed, Stratco Home Improvement Stores also stock a wide range of cupboards, shadow boards, shelving units and other storage solutions to help keep it tidy.

The Stratco Handi-Locker is designed for use in compact spaces, and features double sliding doors. It can easily store bikes, tools, hardware and other equipment while making them easily accessible.

The Stratco Handi-Gable Shed is designed to complement the home. The gable roof provides added head-room and storage space. The sheds come in panel form for ease of assembly.

Stratco Handi-Garden Sheds are available in many different sizes so you'll find the ideal unit for your particular needs. The pre-assembled wall panels are simple for the DIYer to install, and come with a personal access door already hung. Stratco also offer an installation service.

The more up-market Stratco Handi-Heritage Shed has an internal frame to provide strength and flexibility. These feature a steeper roof pitch, decorative finials, and traditional corrugated walls.

Finally for the serious DIYers Stratco have a comprehensive range of sizes, and options in their Flat Roof and Gable Homeshed range. They are ideal for vehicle and other types of general storage and workshop use. For the perfect shed or garage for your application visit a Stratco Home Improvement Store today.

Feb 2008

Outdoor entertainment

The verandah patio has become an integral part of the Australian way of life. It's a place to spend time with friends and family, to entertain, or to just relax and enjoy your own backyard.

For more than 30 years Stratco has demonstrated design and manufacturing leadership in the verandah patio and carport market and continues to develop the Outback, a comprehensive range of verandah patio products that can be combined to create an outdoor living solution designed to individual needs to improve your lifestyle and the value of your home.

The popular flat roof Stratco Outback verandah is a simple and effective way to increase your outdoor living space. These flat units can be combined with a variety of gable options to create more space, improve ventilation and add a prestigious feature to your home. These gable designs have been further enhanced with impressive gazebo and hip end styles.

The smooth clean lines of the Stratco Outback Curved verandah patio will transform any backyard into a stylish, sophisticated outdoor living area and has become a popular and affordable addition to the Outback range.

Attached or freestanding, the Stratco Outback Heritage makes an ideal carport or all weather outdoor entertaining area. Dutch and Traditional Gable designs complement contemporary homes whilst capturing the look of traditional Australian architecture.

The unique Outback Pergola is often included in combination units providing the structural integrity and durability of steel while offering an attractive timber look. Stratco's innovative Shade Blade system provides cool shade from the harsh summer sun, yet enables the warming winter sun to filter through.

For ultimate flexibility and total weather control Outback Sunroof louvres rotate allowing you to adjust the level of sunlight, shelter and ventilation for maximum comfort and improved energy efficiency of the home.

Whatever style you choose, with Stratco's experience, commitment to innovation and attention to detail, you can be confident the Outback you choose will be of the finest style and quality. Whether you want to design and build your own outdoor living area, or would prefer an Authorised Outback Dealer to provide a free measure and quote, visit your local Stratco Home Improvement Store and start enjoying life out back.

Dec 2007

Saving water is easy

Ten tips to conserve water around the house.

1. Water Timers: Install a tap timer so that you will never forget to turn off the water again. Set your timer to not over water your garden and remember to switch it off when there is a strong likelihood of rain.

2. Shorter Showers: Take shorter showers or shower with a friend. Every minute less in the shower saves one bucket of water.

3. Use the half flush: Using the half flush button can save up to four buckets of water every day.

4. Washing your clothes: Wait for a full load of washing before reaching for the detergent as every load less saves 17 buckets of water.

5. Water saving shower-head: By installing a AAA rated water saving shower-head you will save on both water and energy costs.

6. Watering efficiently: Use watering cans or trigger nozzles on hoses so that you water only those areas that need it.

7. Use a broom: Always use a broom or rake rather than a hose to clear driveways and pathways of debris.

8. Water crystals: By adding water crystals to your soil you will enhance your plant's water retention by up to 40 percent.

9. Weeding: Remove weeds as soon as they spring up. They not only shelter pests and diseases but they are notorious water thieves too.

10. Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch at a depth of 7 to 10 cm around plants will reduce water evaporation by up to 70 percent.

Keep up-to-date with your States water authority to make sure you are aware of your local water usage legislation and any rebates that may be available.

Visit a Stratco Home Improvement Store for all the water wise products you need, including rainwater tanks, tap timers, rain sensors, compost bins, organic mulch, water crystals, organic compost, soil wetting agents, soil moisture sensors, water smart shower heads, water smart toilet suites and more...

Nov 2007

Energy efficient entertaining

As we become more aware of environmental issues and what we can do to minimise our energy consumption, there has been an increasing demand for better building solutions.

The Outback Sunroof opening louvre system allows you to adjust the level of sunlight, shelter and ventilation for improved energy efficiency of the home. Sunroof louvres rotate through 135 degrees providing ultimate flexibility, total weather control and maximum comfort at the push of a button.

Exterior walls and windows can be shielded from the harsh summer sun whilst facilitating a cooling air flow. By using the remote control, louvres can be rotated to allow the warming winter sun to filter into the home. The foam inserts of Sunroof louvres provide additional insulation from heat and noise, and create a stronger, more rigid louvre.

When rain is detected the louvres close automatically. When fully closed, the interlocking louvres not only offer protection from the rain, but this valuable resource can then be collected by connecting a rainwater tank to the Sunroof gutters.

The Stratco Outback Sunroof opens up new possibilities in outdoor living and enhances Stratco's already superior verandah patio range.

Whilst it can be installed as an attached, or freestanding unit on its own, a significant advantage is that Sunroof can be easily integrated with other Outback verandah patio styles such as flat roof, gable, pergola or curved design.

Stratco's experience, commitment to innovation, and attention to detail ensures all Stratco products, including the new Sunroof, have been designed, engineered and tested to comply with all relevant safety and building standards.

Patented, spring loaded louvres, snap-fit components, specially designed bushes and a powerful motor ensure smooth, quiet and reliable operation. The entire system was successfully tested to over 20,000 cycles which is equivalent to two full cycles per day for more than 25 years.

Stratco's leadership in manufacturing and design provides lifestyle solutions that add form, functionality and value to your home. The Outback Sunroof opens up new possibilities in outdoor living for both residential and commercial applications.

Authorised Outback dealers have been exclusively trained and have demonstrated excellence in design and installation which ensures a professional addition to your home. Whether you want to do it yourself, or get a free measure and quote from an authorised Outback dealer, contact Stratco today and start enjoying life out back.