When it comes to building projects, many homeowners and even some builders often conflate the terms “renovation” and “construction.” However, these two types of projects are fundamentally different, and each requires a unique set of skills and expertise. If you’re considering a project in Auckland, it’s crucial to understand why choosing experienced renovation builders Auckland has to offer can make all the difference.
Common Misconceptions About Builders
One of the most common misconceptions is that any builder can handle both new builds and renovations with equal proficiency. While both types of builders possess essential construction skills, the nature of their work differs significantly. New builds involve starting from scratch, while renovations require modifying existing structures, each presenting unique challenges and requiring different expertise.
Can All Builders Do Renovations?
Challenges Specific to Renovation Sites
Existing Structures: Unlike new builds, renovations involve working with existing structures. This means builders must deal with old walls, floors, and sometimes outdated building practices that are no longer legal. According to BRANZ, the complexities involved in dealing with existing structures require a specific set of skills that not all builders possess.
Unique Challenges: Each home presents its own set of challenges, from structural issues to plumbing and electrical concerns. Renovation builders must be adept at identifying and solving these problems creatively. For instance, the presence of asbestos in older homes, as discussed by WorkSafe New Zealand, is a significant challenge that requires specialized handling and removal procedures.
Consent Plans: Renovation consent plans are tailored to each individual home, unlike the more predictable plans of new builds. This customization can complicate the renovation process and require more thorough planning and approval from local councils. The Auckland Council provides detailed guidelines on how to navigate the consent process for renovations, emphasizing the need for site-specific plans.
Dealing with Old Homes: Older homes often come with their own quirks, such as non-straight walls and floors. Builders must adapt to these conditions, which can require significant adjustments to the original plans. The New Zealand Institute of Building notes that older homes may also involve dealing with obsolete building materials and methods, which adds to the complexity of the project.
Creativity and Problem-Solving
Renovation builders are often forced to be more creative and resourceful. The unpredictability of renovation sites demands quick thinking and innovative solutions to keep the project on track and within budget. This is where the experience of renovation builders becomes invaluable, as they have a history of overcoming such challenges effectively.
Can Renovation Builders Do New Builds?
While renovation builders have the skills to handle new builds, the transition isn’t always seamless. New builds require a different approach, often more straightforward and predictable than renovations. However, the creativity and problem-solving skills honed in renovation projects can be beneficial in new builds, providing a unique perspective and attention to detail. According to Registered Master Builders, renovation builders bring a meticulous approach to new builds, often resulting in higher quality and attention to detail.
Is Renovation the Same as Construction?
In essence, renovation is a type of construction, but the processes, challenges, and required expertise can vary significantly. Renovations often involve more compromise and adaptation compared to new builds, where builders start with a clean slate.
Why Choose Specialist Renovation Builders?
Skills and Qualifications
Not all builders have the same skills and qualifications, especially when it comes to renovations. Experienced renovation builders bring a wealth of knowledge and problem-solving abilities that general builders might lack. This expertise can help avoid costly mistakes, budget blowouts, and delays. According to the Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ), the nuances of renovation projects require a specialized skill set that is developed through years of experience.
Renovation Complications
Renovations differ from new builds in several ways:
Lack of Original Plans: Often, original plans are unavailable or do not reflect what was actually built. This can lead to significant surprises once the renovation begins, requiring on-the-fly adjustments and changes.
Unforeseen Issues: Parts of the structure, such as inside walls, might not be understood until the build starts. This can uncover hidden problems like water damage or pest infestations that need to be addressed before proceeding.
Retrofitting: Renovations may require retrofitting items like insulation or windows to meet current building standards, adding another layer of complexity. The New Zealand Government’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) emphasizes the importance of upgrading insulation and windows to improve energy efficiency in older homes.
Compliance: Meeting additional requirements for fire safety, access, and facilities, especially when changing the building’s use. For example, transforming a residential home into a commercial space or a retirement facility requires adherence to stringent regulations to ensure safety and accessibility for all occupants.
Material Matching: Matching old materials with new ones can be challenging and may require significant compromises. Older homes often have materials that are no longer manufactured, making it difficult to find exact matches. This can impact the aesthetic continuity of the renovation.
Challenges in Sourcing Materials for Renovations
One of the significant challenges in renovations is sourcing materials and products that need to match the existing home. Unlike new builds, where materials and supplies are readily available and consistent, renovations often require finding or custom-making materials to align with the original structure’s aesthetics and functionality. Older homes might have been constructed with materials that are no longer in production or that were manufactured using methods and dimensions that differ from today’s standards. For example, finding matching weatherboards, skirting, and scotia can be particularly problematic, as older materials were typically machined in imperial sizes, while modern materials adhere to metric dimensions. This discrepancy not only complicates the procurement process but can also increase costs and extend timelines, as builders may need to source rare materials or commission bespoke items. Moreover, maintaining the historical integrity of heritage homes or ensuring seamless integration in aesthetic updates requires a meticulous approach, which adds another layer of complexity that is not typically encountered in new build projects.
Demolition and Protection Challenges in Renovations
Renovations often involve the demolition of existing structures, including plumbing and electrical systems, which presents a unique set of challenges. Unlike new builds where construction starts on a blank slate, renovations must carefully dismantle parts of the existing home without causing damage to the remaining structure. This necessitates extensive protective measures such as floor coverings to prevent scratches or dents, and building wraps to shield the home from dust and debris. Additionally, access issues such as narrow driveways and height restrictions can complicate the movement of materials and equipment, making it more difficult to work efficiently. These constraints are generally less problematic in new builds, where the site is prepared specifically for construction activities, and there are fewer existing elements to work around. In a new build, the layout and logistics are planned from the ground up, often allowing for optimal access and minimizing the need for protective measures. These differences highlight why experienced renovation builders, who are adept at managing these complexities, are essential for successful renovation projects.
Renovation Services Requiring a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) Builder
When undertaking renovations, certain types of work necessitate the expertise and certification of a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) to ensure compliance with New Zealand building regulations and standards. Here is a list of renovation services that typically require an LBP builder:
Structural Alterations:
Removing or modifying load-bearing walls
Installing or replacing beams or lintels
Adding or removing floors, ceilings, or staircases
Modifying foundations or support structures
Additions and Extensions:
Constructing additional rooms or living spaces
Adding a second story to an existing building
Extending existing rooms (e.g., enlarging a kitchen or living room)
Roofing Work:
Replacing or extensively repairing roofs
Installing new roofing systems (e.g., metal, tile, or slate roofs)
Installing new plumbing or electrical systems as part of a renovation
Waterproofing:
Waterproofing wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens
Ensuring proper drainage and moisture protection
Window and Door Modifications:
Installing new windows or doors, particularly where structural changes are needed
Enlarging or reducing window or door openings
Insulation Installation:
Retrofitting insulation in walls, floors, and ceilings
Ensuring compliance with current insulation standards
Decks and Balconies:
Constructing or extensively renovating decks and balconies
Ensuring structural integrity and safety compliance
Seismic Strengthening:
Reinforcing buildings to meet seismic standards
Installing or upgrading earthquake-resistant features
Fire Safety Upgrades:
Installing fire-rated walls, ceilings, and doors
Ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations
Access and Mobility Improvements:
Installing ramps, lifts, or other accessibility features
Modifying structures to improve accessibility for people with disabilities
Choosing an LBP builder for these services ensures that the renovation work complies with the Building Code and meets all safety and quality standards. This not only enhances the longevity and value of the property but also ensures the safety of its occupants. For more detailed information on LBP requirements, visit the Building Performance website.
At Superior Renovations, we are partnered with Sonder architects for all our consent related renovations. Sonder architects head office is situated with our showroom in 16B Link drive, Wairau Valley making it easily accessible to our clients as well as consultants.
If you do have a consent related enquiry, like garage conversion, extension etc, our process would look as follows:
Your enquiry received by us.
We will contact you, understand your requirements and then send you details of Sonder’s head architect and they will be cc’d in the email as well.
John will then carry out a feasibility study and request a property file which can be requested from Auckland council by you.
Once John has received the property file, he will arrange an onsite visit to your home to discuss your options.
If you are good to go then they will do concept drawings as well as give you a quote for architectural drawings that are required to be submitted to Auckland council to obtain a permit.
If you accept the quote, our architect will create the architectural drawings.
Once the drawings are done, our renovation consultant will go through the plans and conduct an onsite visit to discuss design ideas, measure the space etc to create a proposal with a fixed quote, project specifications and designs. Once the plans are approved your renovation will begin.
Building Consents and Amendments
Renovations might reveal the need to amend building consents, which must be approved by the council before proceeding. This process can add time and costs to the project. The New Zealand Building Code provides detailed requirements that must be met during any renovation, ensuring that all safety and compliance standards are maintained.
Minor Works Without a Builder
Some minor maintenance works, plumbing, electrical work, and painting do not require a Licensed Building Practitioner (LPB). For more information, refer to building.govt.nz.
Specialist Renovation Builder vs. Generalists
Much like how the medical field has specialists for different health issues, the construction industry has specialists for different types of building projects. It’s important to choose a builder who specializes in the type of project you’re planning, whether it’s a new build or a renovation, to ensure the best results. The New Zealand Certified Builders Association recommends choosing builders with specific experience in your type of project to ensure quality and compliance.
Renovation and construction are not the same, and each requires a different set of skills and expertise. For projects in Auckland, choosing experienced renovation builders can ensure your project is completed efficiently, on budget, and to the highest standards. At Superior Renovations, we guide you through the entire process, from pre-planning to project completion, ensuring your renovation is a success.
For further information, visit the Building Performance website by the New Zealand Government, the Auckland Council, and the BRANZ. These resources offer comprehensive guidelines and information to support your renovation or new build project.
Summary
Can all builders handle renovations?
Not necessarily. Renovations require specific skills and experience that not all builders possess.
What makes renovation projects more challenging than new builds?
Renovations involve working with existing structures, unforeseen issues, and the need for creative problem-solving.Renovations involve working with existing structures, unforeseen issues, and the need for creative problem-solving.
Can renovation builders handle new builds?
Yes, but the transition can be challenging. However, their experience in problem-solving can be advantageous.
Do renovations require special building consents?
Yes, renovation plans must be tailored to the existing structure and often require amendments and additional approvals from the council.
Why should I choose a specialist renovation builder?
Specialist renovation builders bring a wealth of experience, reducing the risk of costly mistakes and ensuring the project runs smoothly.
If you’re looking for “specific” cost estimates, try our Renovation Cost Calculator Tools
Take advantage of our FREE Complete Home Renovation Guide (48 pages), whether you’re already renovating or in the process of deciding to renovate, it’s not an easy process, this guide which includes a free 100+ point check list – will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services, Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
Recladding a home means that you replace your current cladding which has started to deteriorate and starting to become unsafe to live, or start to affect your health.
Since the leaky home epidemic, house cladding has been the soltion to fix up houses that were affected by the epidemic. By doing a home recladding, builders would see how your timber framing is and fix any structural damage before they’re able to start recladding your house. Which can be quite expensive, so it’s best to have a budget it place.
In This Article:
Cost of Recladding
Leaky Homes
Cost of recladding monolithic house in New Zealand
Back in the 1990s, there was controversy for the New Zealand construction industry as there were a lot of poorly designed homes which created weathertightness issues. You might know that as ‘leaky home’. We’re here to provide you with all the recladding information you need if you’re interested in home recladding.
When it comes to home recladding, some projects can be more straightforward than others. For example, if we were recladding a sturdy state house, or a trusty brick and tile it would be straightforward. But with a low-risk home, there will be hidden surprises that our builders might find that could cause your house recladding to cost more.
How much to reclad a house NZ? When it comes down to it, no renovation consultant can give you a 100% accurate price. This is due to many several factors that can occur once they get started. The cost of recladding your house can be expensive but a great investment in the long run.
Cost of recladding your house varies based on the size of your home. If you have a one level home, it would be more cost effective to reclad complared to one with multiple levels or with a more complext design. The cost to reclad your house can also cost more if your house is situated on a steep or tricky site as this will need more extensive scaffolding.
Cost to reclad a house can also depend on the amount of remedial work needed. Therefore, renovation consultants can’t give you an accurate price. Once we strip back your existing cladding, that’s when the real problem begins. The state of your framing underneath determines how much work our builders would have to do as well as adding on additional costs if your framing is badly damaged. This is the biggest unknown as we’re unable to know how good or bad your framing is until we get started.
Houses built in the mid 1990s are known to be leaky homes as they aren’t weathertight. And they were not built well enough to withstand harsh weather conditions. Houses built back then wouldn’t have been up to regulations with the New Zealand Building Code. Leaky homes nowadagys still get sold which can create a financial problem for new homeowners.
What do we mean by leaky homes? Having a leaky home doesn’t necessarily mean having leaks whenever it’s raining. Moreso when water gets behind the cladding and if there is no ventilation between the cladding and the framing. This can cause the water or moisture to become trap with nowhere to go. Which can cause fungal growth, mould and rotting which can rapidly increase if not dealt with.
How to now if you have a leaky home? There are many issues to having a leaky home which could influence our health if damages got worse. A leaky home essentially is when water from outside has made it’s way inside your house and is causing damage.
What Is The Leaky Home Syndrome and Why Did It Happen?
The 1990’s was the worse time for New Zealand construction industry. During this time, there was por design and shoddy building practices with low quality plaster cladding. This resulted in leaky home syndrome over time as the cladding would crack, which continues to be a problem that homeowners face nowadays,
Once potential houseowners or current houseowner hear about a moisture problem in their homes, it creates a new problem which can be expensive to fix up. For potential homeowners, they might not have the budget right away to reclad their house. Based on research, we know that our clients would like to get away from having monolithic plaster cladding in their homes.
To know if the house you’re thinking of buying or living in has bad cladding, we can provide you with clues to your level of risk when it comes to house recladding. If your house or the house you’re thinking of buying was built between 1990 – 1009. Then there’s a high risk that it’s a leaky home. Which means you’d have to think about house recladding. But if it was built between 1998 – 2004 there is a very high risk that you need to reclad your home. It would provide better comfort and make your house super nice and cosy during winter season. Houses built after 2004 are low risk and may not need house recladding.
As said before, the biggest unknown is that nobody knows that state of your framing until we expose it by removing the cladding. If the framing is damaged or isn’t up to code, then by law we’d have to put up new framing which can add more to your recladding cost.
Not Every Reclad Means a Leaky Home
When homeowners decide to reclad their house, it doesn’t mean that they have a leaky home. Home recladding is often thought of due to weathertightness issues to ensure that water stays out. But house recladding can also be that homeowners want to refresh their house exterior. An example of this would be changing their monolithic plaster cladding to a more modern weatherboard cladding instead.
Common Signs To Look Out For
As you know, a leaky home is not weathertight and most these issues aren’t obvious. Some signs to look out for are:
Sagging ceiling linings
Uneven floor surfaced
Musty smells
Stained or rotting carpet
Poor ventilation
Example of having a Leaky Home | Photo Credit – iStock
If you have these happening inside your home, then you most likely have a leaky home. This is where you might start looking into recladding your house to fix these problems.
Building Features That Can Cause Problems
Some areas of your house have building features that can cause problems more so than other parts in your house. These building features would take on more moisture than others. Some of these features are associated with weathertightness issues:
Decks over living areas
Lack of flashings to windows and penetrations
Flat roofs
Roof to wall junctions
Handrail fixings
If your home has some of these features, then you’d want to consider recladding. Whilst these issues don’t mean you have a leaky home. But it’d be important to keep an eye on them before they get worse.
Cost of recladding monolithic house in New Zealand
Recladding a monolithic house in New Zealand, especially in Auckland, is quite an undertaking. We’re talking about costs ranging anywhere from $150,000 to over $500,000, with many projects averaging around $300,000. Let’s break down why this is the case and why Auckland, in particular, sees so many of these projects.
Why is Recladding So Expensive?
Design and Material Problems: Many of these monolithic homes were built in the 90s and early 2000s using materials and designs that haven’t held up well in New Zealand’s wet and humid climate. This has led to issues like water ingress and structural damage, meaning recladding is often essential to make these homes safe and durable.
Tougher Building Codes: Building standards have gotten stricter over the years. So, when you reclad, you have to meet today’s standards, which are more rigorous than those from a couple of decades ago. This often involves adding better insulation, improved moisture barriers, and upgrading structural elements.
Labour Shortage: There’s a real shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry, particularly in Auckland. This shortage drives up labor costs and can delay projects.
Supply Chain Woes: The pandemic has thrown a wrench into global supply chains, causing delays and increasing the prices of building materials like timber and cladding.
Why Auckland?
Population Growth: Auckland has seen a population boom, leading to a lot of housing development in the late 20th century. Many homes from that era are monolithic because they were cheaper and trendy at the time.
Climate: Auckland’s wet and humid weather is tough on monolithic cladding. The high rainfall and moisture levels increase the risk of water ingress and damage, making recladding more urgent.
Property Market: Property values in Auckland are high, so spending money on recladding can be seen as a good investment. Homeowners are more likely to recoup their costs through increased property value.
Cost Breakdown
Here’s a rough idea of what you might be looking at for recladding costs based on the size of your house:
House Size (Square Metres)
Approximate Cost
Notes
100-150
$250,000 – $350,000
Smaller homes, less material and labor required
150-200
$300,000 – $400,000
Average size, moderate complexity and materials
200-250
$350,000 – $500,000
Larger homes, more complex projects, higher material use
250+
$400,000 – $600,000+
Very large homes, extensive work, premium materials
These costs can vary based on specifics like the materials you choose and the complexity of the job, but this gives you a ballpark figure to start with.
Recladding is a big job but often a necessary one to ensure the safety and longevity of your home, especially in the Auckland climate. It’s a significant investment, but one that can pay off in the long run by adding value to your property and avoiding even costlier repairs down the line.
At Superior Renovations, we are partnered with Sonder architects for all our consent related renovations. Sonder architects head office is situated with our showroom in 16B Link drive, Wairau Valley making it easily accessible to our clients as well as consultants.
If you do have a consent related enquiry, like garage conversion, recladding, extension etc, our process would look as follows:
Your enquiry received by us.
We will contact you, understand your requirements and then send you details of Sonder’s head architect and they will be cc’d in the email as well.
John will then carry out a feasibility study and request a property file which can be requested from Auckland council by you.
Once John has received the property file, he will arrange an onsite visit to your home to discuss your options.
If you are good to go then they will do concept drawings as well as give you a quote for architectural drawings that are required to be submitted to Auckland council to obtain a permit.
If you accept the quote, our architect will create the architectural drawings.
Once the drawings are done, our renovation consultant will go through the plans and conduct an onsite visit to discuss design ideas, measure the space etc to create a proposal with a fixed quote, project specifications and designs. Once the plans are approved your renovation will begin.
Should you buy a monolithic cladding house?
Thinking about buying a monolithic cladding house in New Zealand? It’s important to weigh the risks, especially given the notorious issues related to leaks in these homes. Constructed predominantly in the 1990s and early 2000s, many of these houses suffer from significant weathertightness problems, often referred to as the “leaky homes crisis.”
The core of the problem lies in the design and construction methods of that era. Many homes were built without adequate moisture management systems, leading to water ingress that can cause severe structural damage over time. The quality of materials and construction techniques often didn’t meet high standards, which further exacerbated these issues. Owning such a house can require extensive maintenance to keep it watertight, which can be both costly and time-consuming.
If you’re seriously considering buying a monolithic cladding house, the first step is to have a thorough inspection carried out by a qualified building inspector who specializes in this type of construction. They can help identify any existing or potential problems with weathertightness. It’s also wise to look for a house that comes with a recent weathertightness warranty, offering some assurance that necessary inspections and repairs have been performed.
Beyond the inspection, it’s crucial to review the local council’s property files for any history of weathertightness issues or remedial work that has been done. Consulting with a lawyer experienced in monolithic cladding properties is also a good idea. They can help you navigate the legal complexities, ensuring you understand your rights and potential liabilities. It’s equally important to verify whether the property can be insured adequately, as some insurers might impose restrictions or charge higher premiums for these homes due to the associated risks.
Budgeting for ongoing maintenance and potential future repairs is another essential aspect. Even if the house appears to be in good condition, hidden defects might not surface until later. Preparing financially for these contingencies can help manage the risks involved.
While purchasing a monolithic cladding house in New Zealand comes with inherent challenges, doing your homework and seeking professional advice can significantly mitigate these risks. Thorough inspections, legal consultations, and proper financial planning are crucial steps in making an informed decision and ensuring that your investment is sound.
Steps to Take if Serious About Buying
Detailed Building Report: Obtain a detailed building report that includes moisture readings and an assessment of the cladding condition.
Check Council Records: Review the local council’s property file for any past weathertightness issues or remedial work carried out on the property.
Expert Consultation: Engage with a lawyer who has experience in dealing with monolithic cladding properties to ensure all legal aspects are covered, including understanding your rights and potential liabilities.
Consider Insurance Implications: Verify whether the property can be adequately insured. Some insurers may have restrictions or higher premiums for monolithic cladding houses due to the associated risks.
Budget for Maintenance and Repairs: Plan for ongoing maintenance and potential future repairs. Budgeting for these can help manage the financial risks involved.
Partial vs Full Recladding
When you decide to reclad your house, you will be presented with two options. Partial house recladding lets you only reclad a specific area of the house which can be cheaper than a full reclad. Full house recladding is where you reclad the entire house which can be an expensive option. But you’d know that your house is weathertight and won’t cause any damage for a very long time.
Advantages of a full reclad:
Fix up framing and remove all moisture and create a wall cavity
Provide you an opportunity to improve your weathertightness issues
Ability to identify water leakage
Disadvantages of a Full Reclad:
Takes longer to complete
More expensive that partial reclad
Disrupt living patterns – you’d have to move out
Why Most Aucklanders Might Reclad
Aucklanders are thinking of home recladding as there are a lot of reasons why and great benefits that come from home recladding. The main reason why kiwis want to reclad is to fix up the damage caused by the leaky house crisis back in the 1990s.
As mentioned before, houses built between 1994 and 2004 weren’t designed to suit New Zealand’s unique climate conditions. Back then, the cladding systems that was used to build the house were from overseas and weren’t meant to last long. Which has resulted to people living in leaky homes which continues to haunt us to this day.
A lot has changed since, especially New Zealand building code. As these homes aren’t weathertight. It is one of the main reasons why Aucklanders chose to reclad their homes.
If you find any of the following symptoms, your home may be suffering from weathertightness issues:
Example of house with cracked walls | Photo Credit – iStock
How Much Will it Cost to Reclad my Plaster Home
Cost of recladding your home always depends on your property type and your future plans for your house. Keep in mind that consultants are only able to give you an estimated cost as there are many underlying factors that could add to your total cost when it comes to recladding a house NZ.
The cost to reclad your house depends on your goals. You could choose to reclad your house to give is a new look and make it more modern if you’re thinking of selling. Or simply to just make sure your house is weathertight. It’s important to have a budget sorted before you speak to a consultant. That way you’re able to know how much you’re willing to spend and not go too much over budget.
When determining a project’s costs, these are the key areas that we take into consideration. Factors that affect the cost of recladding a house:
The size and level of complexity of the project
Site access, for example if the house on a step site requiring extensive scaffolding
The extent of the damage to the structure of the building
Where the damage was sustained – damage to more costly areas in the house like kitchens and bathrooms will require more redecoration work
Whether the home requires new joinery such as door and window joinery
How Much Does Recladding Cost?
Cladding cost per square metre NZ depends on the size of your house and any other damages that our builders may find when they get started. The estimated cost to reclad your home is roughly around $40,000 for a single-storey house. Cost to reclad your home if it was a two – storey home it would be around $80,000. Including an extra $5,000 – $10,000 building consent cost.
As mentioned before, it’s hard for consultants to provide a fixed cost how much it would cost to reclad your house. This is due to seeing how damaged your framing is and how much extra work our builders would have to do.
How much to reclad a house NZ? Well, the overall cost of recladding your house will ultimately depend on your pick of materials and the size of your home. As well as any other problems that we may find.
Cost of recladding your house can be determined by these factors:
Complexity of your project (size, site access, level of difficulty)
Damages you already have
Alterations you’d want to make to your home
If you need to replace any joinery
Top 3 Factors that will affect the recladding of your house in NZ
What is the size of the home?
This is a simple one because if your house is bigger then you will require more re-cladding material and hence higher the cost. The dimensions of your home will also determine the surface area that need recladding.
How complex is the design and layout of the home?
Cost to reclad your house can also increase due to the design and layout of your home. If your house was on a steep hill then our contractors would need more extensive scaffolding which can add to your cost. Recladding a house in NZ would mean that we would have to work around the layout of your home as well as the design.
How much damage is in your current home that needs to be fixed before recladding?
You’d want to get ahead of the problem before it gets worse and the longer you wait the worse it would get and the more expensive it would be for you. You should check whether there is damage before you get a recladding company on board and carry these inspections out in the preliminary stage. Most recladding companies will provide this by getting an external third party inspection.
Want to know the cladding cost per square metre NZ? While the costs aren’t 100% accurate, we’re able to provide all the information you need to be aware of how much you’re spending. You may be recladding your house due to it leaking or you’re getting ahead of the problem. Knowing this we can determine the extent of the damage and how much we need to repair.
Contact us for a consultation and we’re able to provide you with a few examples as a reference. This way we’re also able to provide you with more information and let you understand where you home may stand and the future of it.
Example of having good condition framing. No moulds. | Photo Credit – iStock
Estimated Costs
How much to reclad a house NZ? For a simple kiwi home that is one storey, and your framing underneath is in good condition and with no additional work required. It’s a rough estimate that it would cost around $180,000 for home recladding.
For a split-level home that have a brick or block base with plaster on top and requires no additional work, recladding cost should be around $240,000 if you are cladding the whole house.
Now, for a standard kiwi home, that is 160+ square metre. The cladding cost for a home like this would cost around $300,000. That is of course with no additional work required if your framing underneath is in good condition.
Most new homes would not require recladding which means that if someone wants to reclad their home then chances are that they will require some additional work in terms of repairs. Like fixing up the roof or getting new materials in to replace the framing. The estimated recladding cost would be around $330,000.
For a more architecturally designed plaster home, you might require a more comprehensive design for recladding so the current issues do not arise again. This estimated recladding cost would be around $400,000.
Example of an Architecturally Designed Plaster Home | Photo Credit – iStock
Therefore…
The examples that were given above with the estimated recladding cost are only based off the homes that are most common when our clients ask for a home recladding. By providing you with these examples, we hope it would give you a ballpark figure of how much you’ll be needing to spend for your home recladding. While many other types of renovations are easier to estimate and have a pretty fixed cost for variations (like leaking bathrooms), this is however not true for recladding homes. Before we remove the old recladding, it is impossible to tell what the damage is underneath the cladding. This makes every recladding project unique.
To see how well your framing is underneath, we’d do a moisture testing. Whilst moisture testing isn’t an accurate way to see the condition of your framing. This will somewhat help provide an estimate cost for you. This way you’re prepared for the worst-case scenario if it ever arises. This could add more to the cost of recladding your house.
The worse-case scenario when it comes to home recladding is having to replace all the timber. Replacing all your timber adds on an extra cost of $10,000 if not more depending on the size of your house.
Mostly with Timber damage you will usually find decay/mould as it may be wet currently. Nobody wants to live in a house that is decaying or starting to mould. As this could cause the spores created from the mould to become airborne which can lead to health risks. This is something to keep in mind when thinking about recladding a house NZ.
Do I need consent from Auckland council to reclad my house?
Recladding a house NZ is not easy and can be quite expensive. You’d have to get building consent for house recladding, and it’d cost around $5,000 to $10,000. Auckland Council is mainly in charge of giving you your building consent.
Auckland council will conduct a thorough inspection of their own before you get your consent. to the workload of Auckland Council, it’d be best to get this process down a month before you start house recladding. This is due to the inspection officer needing to come visit the site which can take round 2-3 weeks before it happens.
Once that is all sorted, you’d be given the Code of Compliance. When working with recladding companies, project managers should know about building consent so they’re able to discuss it more with you if you need more information. That way you’re able to get a clearer timeline of when the recladding would be done.
THE RECLADDING PROCESS
There are many different stages you’d go through in the recladding process depends on how big the project is. Usually there are only four steps that our contractors follow when doing each recladding project.
These four steps are:
1. PROTECT YOUR HOME
Firstly, we’d make sure that your home is protected from these weather conditions by wrapping it to keep the interior dry.
2. REMOVE EXISTING CLADDING
Next step, we’d remove the old cladding and dispose of it off-site.
3. INSPECT TIMBER FRAMING
After we remove your old cladding. There will be an independent building consultant that inspects for any damage or rot that may have occurred in your framing.
4. REPAIR & RECLADDING
Lastly, if there is any damaged timber. We’d removed that and rebuilt it. Thought replacing the whole framing will cost extra. Once that is all finished, we’d then be able to reclad the whole house.
Why you need a code of compliance certificate.
The Code of Compliance Certificate (CCC) came in around 1992 which meant houses built before then did not have a code of compliance certificate. Since then, houses nowadays must have a code of compliance before they start building them.You can get a code of compliance if you do not have it.
FAQ’s
These are the most frequently asked questions that we get from our clients. These questions down below would be sure to answer all your queries and inform you. Ranging from the cost of recladding your house to understanding what you do when builders come around to reclad.
Should you stay at home or move out during your recladding project?
Most people only reclad their homes once in their lifetime so make sure you do your research and meet several companies before starting your recladding project. Ensue that you have an experienced team that would be helping you even if it means going for a more expensive one. As you’re spending a lot of money already, you don’t want to make any mistakes as house recladding is more of a one-time fix. Therefore, you don’t want to take any unnecessary risks when it comes to weathertightness and ensuring that your cladding is compliant.
It’s been advised that you should move out while they’re recladding your house as it’s quite noisy and will disturb your day to day tasks. It can prove to be challenging to remain in the house while you recladding is taking place. This is due to how intrusive the work is. As they’re getting rid of your old cladding, it’d be like living with no walls which means no privacy and it would be noisy and cold. So if you work from home and need peace and quiet then moving out for that duration would be best.
Based off previous projects, our builders have found it easier when homeowners move out while they reclad their homes. As our builders won’t have to clean up and set up every day. Our builders can also work faster and they have uninterrupted access.
Should I replace my window joinery?
If your house was built around the leaky home era then you’d most likely have to replace your window joinery. Before you’re able to start, the inspection officer will check to see that you’re eliminating all water risks. If your window joinery isn’t up to code then you’d have to replace it. Cost of recladding your house including new window joinery would include an extra 5% in your total recladding cost.
Example of having new window joinery | Photo Credit – iStock
There are so many materials to reclad, what is the right type of material for my house?
There are many cladding materials that can be suited towards your liking and your budget. Most people who have a plaster home that chose to reclad usually go for weatherboard material instead. A more expensive material to use would be clay brick or concrete brick. These two types of material have a longer lifespan then the other materials as they can last between 60-80 years before needed to reclad again. Only needing to repaint every 5-10 years.
Using plaster material for your recladding is also perfectly fine. Plaster cladding has had a bad stigma attached to it due to the leaky home era but that was due to how it was built. In order to prevent leaky homes, you have to build a wall cavity to let the moisture out and this way your home will last for decades despite it being plaster cladding.
Luxury recladding
How much does high-end recladding cost?
Cost of recladding your house can be expensive and even more expensive if you go for high-end cladding materials. Choosing a more premium option will add to the cost of recladding your house especially if you have a large home. If there is extensive damage to your framing then that would also add more to your recladding cost. We’re able to help work around you budget and ensure that we stay within your budget.
What is the best design or style for my cladding?
Recladding a house NZ provides you with a chance to modernise your house. There are many styles to choose from and you can do a little mix match with your recladding. It have been a trend lately where homeowners are incorporating natural wood elements into their house recladding design. This could be done by using a combination of weatherboard, metal and stone.
By doing this, it allows homeowners to be more creative with their materials and it can also fit within your budget as well.
Weatherboard is one of New Zealand’s most popular cladding material as they come in many different material. Like timber, aluminium and vinyl. It’s been known that timber is the most popular material to choose from when house recladding. This is due to the material being durable and cost effective and most timber products have a warranty of 25 years.
With weatherboard, there are many different ways you can design them to give you home a different look. You could run it horizontally and give it a flat profile, or bevel-back and give is a more traditional bungalow look. For a more modern and contemporary design, your cladding can be placed vertically. If you choose to use weatherboards then you can paint them using dulux or Resene paints as they have a wide range of colour selection available.
Example of weatherboard claddding | Photo Credit – iStock
Cost to reclad your house and to maintain the cladding will require some ongoing maintenance costs. With the cladding material you pick, they will need a repaint every 10 years. Though not every cladding material needs repainting. Some of these include concrete and clay bricks and PVC weatherboards. The cost to reclad your house with those materials can cost a bit more than others.
Not only is repainting the only maintenance you need to worry about but also about the function components. You’d want to ensure that the vented wall cavity drainage outlets are checked regularly and maintained as you don’t want to end up having a leaky home again.
Lucky for you, your contractor will inform you about all the maintenance you need to worry about finding out this information for yourself. Based on the consumer protection measures legislation, your contractor is obligated to provide you with all the maintenance requirements that you need.
Will there be extra costs when I reclad?
How much to reclad a house NZ? The cost to reclad your home in NZ will largely depend on the type of material you choose. There will be extra costs when you reclad as you’d have to take into account of how damaged your framing is. The extra cost will be re-doing your current framing due to damage and not just using premium recladding materials. There are many factors that could add to your recladding cost which is why we’re unable to provide a 100% accurate price when it comes to the cost of recladding your house.
Cost to reclad your house can also increase if there is a huge amount of moisture in timber or gib which means that both sides of the wall would have to come out. There are many little things that will add to your cost to reclad your house but our project managers would let you know them before they get started.
Kiwi Villas have been proven to be incredibly enduring even after 100 years. But of course, all houses need recladding at some point. When it comes to the villa, the weatherboard exterior would need a bit of a reclad. This is because old villas are especially prone to water damage and are wet and also the unforgiving NZ sun.
What is the process to reclad a Villa and how is it different from other homes?
It has been often stated that recladding is full of traps for first time homeowners. This is due to the recladding process and the steps you need to take before we’re able to start recladding. This is why it’s important to pick an experienced team as they’d be able to inform you on everything you need to know. Cost to reclad you house will always be determined around how much work is needed to be done. A villa might not need as much work as you may only need to replace a few weatherboard. Recladding a villa can be more complex than other newer homes.
Most villas were made of solid plastered brick which is why there is a heritage restrictions around changing the look of your villa. As these villa has been around for a very long time, you’d have to keep the aesthetics of your house so that it looks the same with the rest of the villas on your street.
If you choose to upgrade the design of your house like going for a monolithic cladding then the cost to reclad your house would go up. This is due to additional consent costs and there will be more building prep.
There are lots of factors to consider when it comes to recladding your home but by knowing more information on home recladding it might make it less scary. Recladding is neither inexpensive or complex and you should only consider working with qualified and experienced recladding companies. With the information in this blog we hope we’re able to provide you with the information you need. Or at least a brief outline of what it’d look like when you decide to reclad your home.
Note: This article has been updated to include additional house renovations content to reflect the home renovation costs and home renovation trends for the year 2024.
People try to do some kind of renovations to their homes almost every season depending upon the changes and choices they decide to make. Renovations are done to make your home look more attractive and beautiful from inside and outside. It is also often done to increase functionality and make your home more convenient.
Home renovation is an exciting venture for many homeowners, especially in Auckland, New Zealand, where the real estate market is continuously booming. As we move into 2024, the latest trends in home renovations in Auckland are focused on creating functional and sustainable living spaces that offer modern comfort and style.
If you’re looking for “specific” cost estimates, try our Renovation Cost Calculator Tools
One of the most significant renovation trends for 2023 and 2024 is the use of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient fixtures. With the increasing focus on sustainability, more homeowners are turning to environmentally friendly solutions for their homes. These include installing solar panels, using recycled materials for construction, and incorporating smart home technology that minimizes energy consumption.
Another trend that is gaining popularity for quite some time is the open-plan living concept. This involves creating an open floor plan that seamlessly integrates the kitchen, living, and dining areas to create a large, multifunctional living space. This design concept has become popular due to its versatility, providing homeowners with ample space to entertain guests or relax with family and friends.
In addition to open-plan living, smart technology has also become an essential component of home renovations in 2023 and 2024. Smart home technology allows homeowners to automate various aspects of their homes, including lighting, heating, security, and entertainment. This technology makes it easy to control and monitor different aspects of the home from a single device, such as a smartphone or tablet.
Other popular home renovation trends in Auckland for 2023 and 2024 continue to include the use of natural and earthy tones, statement lighting fixtures, and the incorporation of outdoor living spaces. These trends help to create a welcoming and relaxing environment, making the home a haven for its occupants.
We can expect these renovation trends to continue in Auckland, New Zealand. With the real estate market continuing to boom, homeowners and investors alike are looking for ways to increase the value of their properties.
In addition to the rise of DIY projects, we can expect to see an increase in the use of online tools and apps to help homeowners plan and execute their renovations. These tools can help homeowners visualize their renovation ideas, estimate costs, and even connect with local contractors.
For rental properties, we can expect to see more investors renovating to increase the rental value of their properties. This could include upgrading the kitchen or bathroom, installing new flooring, or adding smart home technology to attract tenants.
Overall, home renovations in Auckland, New Zealand, are expected to continue to be a popular trend in 2023. With a focus on sustainability, functionality, and modern style, homeowners can create beautiful and comfortable living spaces that increase the value of their properties. If you’re considering a home renovation in Auckland, be sure to explore the latest trends and financing options to make the most of your investment.
Financing your Home renovation in Auckland
For more information on Financing your renovation…
People think that the proper cost of renovation depends upon the size of the room or the place, but it’s not true. Costs for renovation in Auckland varies according to the different styles, adjustments, fixtures and the material that is used to renovate your place.
Before – Full House Renovation in West Harbour, Auckland
After – Full House Renovation in West Harbour, Auckland
Painted brick house before and after (NZ) – Example of a renovated exterior of a house in West Harbour which included: Roof painting, new concrete driveway, painting of bricks, new gutters, replacing all windows/frames to double glazing, new electronic front door, full exterior repair and painting of weatherboards.
It doesn’t seem that the renovation industry will slow down because a lot of renovation work is available. As mentioned above, we’ve actually seen an increase and we speculate that it’s due to to the following reasons:
Finding ways to increase value while the market is stagnant
The Covid-19 Lock-down has stimulated the demand for renovating
Our services and interaction with the customers has always been our advantage and has made us the best amongst all other companies in Auckland. If you are currently living in Auckland you might have noticed that the number of renovation cranes has increased in significant numbers and it’s still not enough.
While the renovation builder industry (Auckland) is continually increasing, the construction and House renovation Auckland work has increased to a significant level as well, especially in the residential sector despite consumer confidence. If you are also looking to purchase some property in Auckland and the upcoming areas, let us tell you that this has now also become very challenging.
Having your own home is a blessing. The mood of people changes with time. People want to renovate their homes whenever they feel for a change or see something new in the market and they want that at their place. You do not need to wander and ponder on the internet to look for renovation services as we are always there for you to provide the best and quality renovation Auckland services.
Top 8 reasons why Aucklanders renovate is as follows:
Updating outdated features: Many homes in Auckland have outdated features that may not be functional or aesthetically pleasing. Renovating the entire home allows homeowners to update these features and bring their home into the modern era. This can include updating old appliances and fixtures, installing energy-efficient options, and modernizing the overall design to better fit the homeowner’s preferences.
Increasing home value: Renovating the entire home can significantly increase its value. This is especially important for homeowners who plan to sell their home in the future. A full renovation can include adding modern and desirable features, such as open-plan living areas, outdoor living spaces, and updated kitchens and bathrooms, all of which can increase the home’s appeal to potential buyers and ultimately its value.
Creating more space: A full home renovation can involve adding more square footage to the home, which can be useful for families that are expanding or simply need more living space. This can include adding an extension to the home or converting an unused space, such as a basement or attic, into a functional living space.
Personalizing the home: Renovating the entire home can give homeowners the opportunity to customize their living space to their specific tastes and needs. This can include selecting finishes and colors that reflect the homeowner’s personality, creating functional living spaces that suit their lifestyle, and incorporating unique design elements that set their home apart.
Improving energy efficiency: A full home renovation can also include upgrading appliances, insulation, and other features that can improve the home’s energy efficiency and save homeowners money on energy bills in the long run. This can include installing energy-efficient windows, adding insulation to walls and ceilings, and upgrading heating and cooling systems to more efficient models.
Repairing structural damage: If a home has suffered structural damage, a full renovation may be necessary to repair and reinforce the home’s structure. This can include fixing foundation issues, repairing damaged walls or roofing, and reinforcing weakened structures to ensure the home is safe and structurally sound.
Enhancing curb appeal: A full home renovation can also include exterior updates, such as repainting the home, adding new siding, or installing new windows, which can enhance the home’s curb appeal. This can make the home more attractive to potential buyers and increase its overall value, while also giving the homeowner a sense of pride and satisfaction in their home’s appearance.
Improving indoor and outdoor living: Home renovations in Auckland often focus on improving indoor and outdoor living spaces. Auckland’s mild climate and stunning natural surroundings make it an ideal place to enjoy indoor-outdoor living. Renovating your home can provide the perfect opportunity to create a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces, maximizing your enjoyment of the beautiful Auckland environment. This can include adding outdoor living spaces such as patios or decks, creating an open-plan layout that integrates indoor and outdoor living areas, and installing large windows or doors that offer unobstructed views of the outdoors. Upgrading your indoor and outdoor living spaces not only enhances your quality of life but also increases your home’s value, making it a smart investment for house renovations in Auckland. If you’re looking to renovate your home, consider a reputable company like Home Renovations Auckland to help you achieve your goals.
Superior Renovations – Kitchen Renovation
If you have considered renovating, then it might be of the following types:
Extending your home.
Add another level to your home.
Make aesthetic changes on the inner side of the home as per your mood and ideas.
We renovate and adequately design the place according to the budget and lifestyle of our client. We try our level best to make your place look more attractive and beautiful but also making sure it’s within the clients scope.
If your property is one of your biggest assets, then renovation should be your second priority in order to maintain/increase it’s value. People are spending billions of dollars for the renovation of their properties. The renovation costs NZ per square meter in the Auckland house renovations building industry has been quite stable in recent years and we haven’t seen significant spikes.
Superior Renovations
Where to look?
As you know, Auckland is well known for its property and location, there is a lot of room available for renovation particularly in the older regions such as Ponsonby, Mt Eden, Sandringham, Glenfield, Howick etc. Almost in every area of Auckland, there are house renovations happening. The critical role to renovate a property if you’re looking to see is to increase its perceived value and equity in the market to attract the right buyers at your target selling price, which isn’t easy considering the demographics in every suburb is different.
Subdividing also seems to be quite popular in recent years and this is due to the large land available for older homes.
2. How much does it cost to renovate in Auckland in 2024? ↑
Confirming the renovation costs is a bit tricky and complicated
It depends on requirements and ideas of the client and the range can be quite large. If you’re considering on buying a place to renovate, try to get a ball park figure for the renovation to avoid not having enough budget after the purchase. If you’re renovating for your own home, focus on the necessities first and then the wants later if the budget allows.
When it comes to house renovation costs in Auckland, the price can vary greatly depending on the scope and complexity of the project. According to the New Zealand Building Industry Federation, the average cost of home renovations in Auckland can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per square meter. This means that for a 100 square meter home, the cost of a renovation could range from $200,000 to $500,000 or more. It’s important to note that these are just averages and the actual cost of a renovation can vary based on factors such as the quality of materials used, the size of the home, and the contractor’s fees. If you’re looking for reliable and affordable home renovations in Auckland, it’s important to do your research and find a reputable company that can work with your budget and needs.
There are some renovation costs/rates that can be calculated in advance if you know the size of the area you want done (but keep in mind this would be an average). You should have a 10% contingency budget should you start any renovation, there are also unforeseen costs once a renovation starts – perhaps you want to get extra things, or there was rotten timber that needs replacing.
Example of a complete full house renovations
The word home renovation can mean many different things to different people. The scope of work for
St Heliers in Auckland
This renovation was more cosmetic that structural. All internal areas were renovated without any structural changes.
Bathroom renovation
New floors and full house painting
New floors and full house painting
Bathroom Renovation
Renovated Bedroom
Renovated Rumpus
Renovated Lounge
Renovated Bedroom
This full house renovation in St Heliers (Auckland) included: Renovation of the toilet, Bathroom Renovation x 2, Laundry Renovation, Full Interior Painting, Desk Renovation, Interior door replacements, Interior Stairs and Balustrade Installation (Glass), Wallpaper Removal and Plaster, Exterior Painting and installation of Balustrade
West Harbour in West Auckland
This renovation was an extensive indoor and outdoor renovation. 4 bathrooms, 5 bedrooms, kitchen and living room was renovated. There were also many structural changes in the home which included renovating a staircase, breaking load bearing walls, installing double glazing windows, renovating the roof etc. Outdoor renovation included landscaping, re-paving, installing an electric gate and creating a deck.
Why consider a house extension when you could sell your Auckland house and move to a larger home? Here are four good reasons to consider adding a house extension:
If you like the area you’re living in, you don’t have to move
Make the changes you want to make and not settle for something that’s just okay
A home extension may be more affordable than moving to a larger home
You may be attached to your current home or location and not want to leave
The cost of a renovation to extend a ground floor home by 50 square meters in New Zealand can vary greatly depending on various factors such as location, the complexity of the project, materials used, and labor costs. Additionally, building permits and fees may also add to the overall renovation costs.
As a rough estimate, the renovation costs for a house extension in Auckland of a 50 square meter ground floor extension in New Zealand could range from NZD 100,000 to NZD 250,000 or more. That works out to $2,000m2 – $5,000m2. The difference is in the type of construction and the quality of the inclusions. This estimate is based on industry averages and may not reflect the actual renovation costs of your specific project. It’s recommended to consult with a professional builder or architect to get a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs and location.
You won’t know the exact cost of a home extension until you’ve made plans and know how large the extension is going to be and what will be included in the extension. You may be wondering about the cost of hiring an architect to create the necessary drawings. The cost of hiring an architect for a ground floor extension in New Zealand can vary depending on factors such as the project size and complexity, level of detail required, and the experience of the architect. On average, the cost of hiring an architect in New Zealand for a ground floor extension can range from NZD 5,000 to NZD 15,000 or more.
Architectural drawings are essential for any home extension project as they provide detailed plans for the construction team to follow and ensure compliance with building codes and regulations.
Want to figure out a custom price for your own extension project? Check out this free to use House Extensions Cost Calculator (NZ) developed by Superior Renovations.
Cost of Two storey House Extensions in Auckland
What about two-story extensions?
If both storeys are the same size, a generally-accepted rule is to add 50% extra to the build cost of a single storey house extension. So if you ground floor extension’s renovation cost is $250,000 then your 2 storey home will be $2500,000 + 50% = $375,000
Add 20% for professional fees and GST (15%).
Don’t forget about windows, finishings and fixtures when you’re pricing your house extension, Make sure you include these in your planning and cost estimates. If you don’t, you could be in for a surprise when the final invoice comes.
Planning a house extension is a big job that can seem daunting, especially with so many things to think about. It’s best to start with figuring out the cost. Once you’ve got a rough idea of how much your extension will cost, you can move forward with everything else.
There are other places to start, of course. But the best place to start will always be with a general cost calculation.
General Process for House Extensions NZ
Initial enquiry to a construction/renovation company
Feasibility study to be carried out by an architect
Pre-construction costs are proposed
Client agrees to initial costs
On-site meeting with client along with architect and builder
Draft architectural plans are drafted and briefed to client
Final architectural plans are submitted for consent
Consent approved
Quote/proposal/specs are generated by builder based on approved plans
Awaiting client approval
Building contract signing process
Initial deposit received
Construction start date (as estimated finish date) is confirmed
Example of a full interior renovation which included: New gib board, redesign of the staircase, installation of glass balustrades, new chandelier, new carpet installation and replacing all lights to LED
Different types of renovation costs NZ per square meter made in different areas of Auckland have ranged from $2,000 to $4,000 for home renovations in the mid range categories in terms of fixtures, finishes etc while more complex renovations with high-end finishes could cost upwards of $6,000 NZD per square meter.
The interior part takes can range between $90,000 to $180,000 depending upon the client’s requirements and if there is no structural change required but only minor consent related work. The scope of work required, the size of the house and the finishes/fixtures you choose will greatly determine the cost of your full home renovation in Auckland.
The cost of a house renovation can vary significantly depending on the scope of work and specific details of the project. For instance, if you’re planning to renovate a standard 3 bedroom home with mid-range fixtures, including painting the interior, renovating 1 bathroom and 1 kitchen, and changing the flooring in all bedrooms and living areas, you can expect to spend between $90,000 to $105,000 in renovation costs. However, if consent-related work is required in the bathroom, kitchen, or living areas, such as obtaining council approval, the cost could increase by up to $20,000, including the architect’s fee, architectural drawings, and Auckland council fee. Keep in mind that these are just estimated house renovation costs and the actual renovation costs may vary depending on various factors such as the location and quality of materials used. To get a better idea of the expected renovation costs for your specific project.
It is not possible however, to give an estimate on a full home renovation without visiting the home and measuring if the complexity of the home renovation is high. An example of this would be renovating a house with extensive structural changes, installing double glazed windows, insulating the home further etc.
House Renovation costs in Auckland as per Square Meter
If you are having a thought of the cost of renovating your place as per square meter, you can follow the guide mentioned above. Although the figures mentioned above for house renovations costs NZ per square meter are not exact. They are just an estimate for you to consider your renovation area according to your budget. In the beginning, $2,000 square meter is the cheapest renovating cost. The average cost is 2,500 per square meter. Anything that is over $ 3,000-meter square is undoubtedly a prohibitive renovating price.
See below on the break-down of house renovation costs:
TYPE OF HOUSE RENOVATION COSTS
COST RANGE
Renovation Architect Cost
$5,000 – $15,000 (5-15%. In this case considering the renovation to be worth $100,000)
Surveyor / Engineer
$150 – $500 per hour
Heat pump
$2,000 -$5,000 (based on the number of heat pumps and the brand)
Renovation Management
$50 to $150 per hour or $5000 to $20,000 for the entire project.
Electrical
$5,000 to $8,000 if it is extensive electrical work but between $1,000 to $3,000 for minor electrical work like changing electric outlets etc.
Plumbing
$2,700 – $5000
Builder
$50 to $150 per hour or $10,000 to $50,000 for the entire project.
Joinery (windows)
$5,000 to $15,000
Insulation
$2,000 to $5,000
Roof
$10,000 to $20,000 depending on the type of roof and complexity of the shape of the roof (also including scaffolding).
Interior Renovation costs
$41,000 to well over $100,000
Renovation Costs Bathroom
Starting at only $20,000 for a basic upgrade with an average spend of $25,000-40,000 and well over $45,000 for a full redesign.
Renovations Costs for Kitchen
Ranging from $18,0000 for average size, $30,000 mid-$35,000 size and $40,000 + for high end designer kitchens.
House Extension cost
$100,000 +
Recladding cost
$150,000 +
How Much Does it Cost To Replumb a House (NZ)?
Replumbing a house in New Zealand involves various factors including the size of the house, the type of pipes used, and the complexity of the job. On average, the cost to replumb a house can range from $6,000 to $15,000. For a standard 100-square-meter house, the cost is typically around $7,000 to $10,000. Larger houses or those with more complex plumbing systems can see costs upwards of $15,000 or more.
Here is a table illustrating the estimated costs based on different house sizes:
House Size
Average Cost ($)
100 sqm
$6,000 – $10,000
150 sqm
$8,000 – $12,000
200 sqm
$10,000 – $15,000
250 sqm
$12,000 – $18,000
300 sqm
$15,000 – $20,000+
These estimates take into account the use of common materials like PEX or copper pipes, which are preferred for their durability and ease of installation. Additional costs can arise from labor, permits, and any necessary repairs to walls or floors during the installation process.
How Much Does it Cost To Rewire a House (NZ)?
Rewiring a house in New Zealand can be a substantial but necessary investment to ensure safety and functionality. The cost varies significantly depending on the size of the house and the complexity of the job. Here’s a table to give you an idea of the average costs based on different house sizes:
House Size
Cost Range (NZD)
Small House (2-3 bedrooms)
$4,000 – $7,000
Standard House (3-4 bedrooms)
$6,000 – $10,000
Large House (4+ bedrooms)
$10,000+
These prices can vary based on factors such as the age of the house, the condition of the existing wiring, and the level of access available to the electricians.
Common Upgrades/Add-ons During Rewiring
LED Lighting: Replacing traditional lighting with energy-efficient LED lights not only reduces energy consumption but also has a longer lifespan.
Smart Switches: Incorporating smart switches can enhance convenience, allowing you to control lighting and other electrical devices remotely via smartphone or voice commands.
Upgraded Power Board: Modern switchboards with Residual Current Devices (RCDs) improve safety by preventing electric shocks and fires.
Additional Power Outlets: Adding more power outlets can reduce the need for extension cords, making your home more organized and safer.
Home Sound System: Installing an integrated home sound system can improve your audio experience for entertainment purposes.
Security Systems: Upgrading or adding security features such as CCTV cameras, alarm systems, and smart doorbells can enhance home security.
Home Automation: Implementing home automation features like smart thermostats, automated blinds, and smart plugs can make your home more efficient and easier to manage.
Rewiring your house not only addresses potential safety issues but also allows you to modernize your home’s electrical system to meet current and future needs. For a precise estimate tailored to your specific requirements, it’s best to consult with a professional electrician who can provide a detailed quote based on an inspection of your property.
Double Glazing Cost per square metre (NZ)
When considering house renovations in Auckland, New Zealand, it’s important to factor in renovation costs. Double glazing is a significant aspect of home renovations that can impact costs. While it may be an additional expense, double glazed windows can improve the energy efficiency of a home, resulting in lower energy bills and potentially reducing long-term renovation costs. Additionally, double glazing can add value to a home and make it more appealing to potential buyers, which may offset the initial cost of installation. Therefore, when planning a home renovation project in Auckland, homeowners should consider the long-term benefits and cost savings of investing in double glazing.
Retrofitting double glazing costs, a lot lesser than getting entirely new double glazing with new frames. You can expect to pay about $15,000 to $18,000 for a 100m2 home. An insulated glass unit and drainage system is installed in your current window frames. While this is a cheaper option, it is not possible to install the insulated glass unit in your current frames for most homes in Auckland.
It is only possible for new homes where the window frames are in great condition. Older home in Auckland do not have frames that are in good condition as they are often damaged or skewed. If you have a newly built home with single glazing, then opt for retrofitting your double glazing as it is a more cost effective option with similar insulation levels as new double glazing with new frames. Hence, while double glazing windows is more expensive than retrofitting, it is not mostly possible for older homes and especially for people renovating their homes as they do not usually do so for new builds.
Looking to re-roof your home in Auckland, New Zealand? Re-roofing can offer numerous benefits, including improved weather protection, energy efficiency, and compliance with building codes. But how much does it cost to re-roof in Auckland?
The cost of re-roofing in Auckland can vary depending on factors such as the size of your roof, the roofing material used, and the complexity of your roof design. For example, re-roofing with asphalt shingles may cost between $8,000 to $16,000, while re-roofing with long-run iron roofing may cost between $18,000 and $36,000 for a standard-sized home with a pitched roof in Auckland.
To get an accurate estimate for re-roofing your home in Auckland, it’s important to get quotes from reputable professionals who specialize in re-roofing Auckland homes. Make sure to factor in additional costs such as roof insulation, removal and disposal of the old roof, and any necessary repairs to your roof structure.
Home renovation costs in Auckland can also be significant, and it’s important to factor in all potential expenses before embarking on a renovation project. Re-roofing a house is one aspect of home renovation that can impact costs, but it can provide long-term cost savings by improving energy efficiency and weather protection. Other home renovation costs in Auckland may include interior and exterior remodeling, kitchen and bathroom renovations, and recladding. It’s essential to work with reputable professionals in Auckland to ensure the work is done to a high standard and meets all necessary building codes and regulations. Overall, homeowners in Auckland should consider the long-term benefits and cost savings of home renovations and factor in all potential expenses to ensure a successful project.
The cost of reroofing in Auckland in 2024 can vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the roof, the materials used, and the complexity of the installation. On average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere between $14,000 and $25,000 for a complete reroofing job.
Here are some key points on the cost factors of reroofing:
The size and shape of the roof: The larger and more complex the roof, the higher the cost of reroofing.
The type of material used: Different roofing materials have different costs, with some options being more expensive than others. For example, asphalt shingles are generally cheaper than metal or tile.
The quality and thickness of the roofing material: Higher quality and thicker materials will generally cost more than lower quality and thinner options.
The condition of the existing roof: If the existing roof is in poor condition, additional work may be required to remove and dispose of it, which can increase the overall cost.
The accessibility of the roof: If the roof is difficult to access, such as being high or steep, this can increase the cost of reroofing due to the additional safety equipment and labor required.
Additional features: Features such as chimneys, skylights, and ventilation systems can add to the cost of reroofing due to the additional labor and materials required.
Renovated Bathroom
Kitchen and House Renovation
Is a home renovation worth it?
People are confused if renovating their property will increase its value or not. Let us assure you that if you are a resident of Auckland, then renovation is the best way to increase your property’s value and beauty.
This is the reason that the knowledge regarding Home renovation Auckland is very essential. The best way to pursue is that you should overestimate the budget for renovation and set the sale priceless. This will let you make a proper price and profit analysis.
Whether you intend to modernise an old kitchen or enhance your outdoor space by adding a deck to your home, your first step when planning a renovation will be figuring out the cost, work and time involved in the project.
6. So here are a few tips to help you get off to a good start for your house renovations. ↑
Do you research, figure out what you want
You should have a clear idea of what you want before you start getting quotes and choosing materials. If you know you want to redo your bathroom, but aren’t sure what style you want, you can get inspiration from home improvement and design magazines or use Pinterest to find creative ideas and bookmark them for later.
Make a detailed plan
Creating a detailed renovation plan is essential to the success of your renovation project, and while your renovation company can certainly help with this, there are some things you’ll need to decide on beforehand, including your budget and preferred materials and finishes.
Allow plenty of time for your renovation
Home Renovation projects in Auckland can often end up taking a lot longer than anticipated, so you should allow plenty of time for unexpected delays. Planning in more time than you think you’ll need to prevent unnecessary stress when things move more slowly than anticipated.
Make sure you have considered all your options
It’s best to get advice and proposals from a few different renovation companies in Auckland before making a final decision so you can compare them and make sure you are making an informed decision. Of course, high-quality materials cost more and skilled contractors often charge more than less experienced ones, so check the contractor’s reputation, ask plenty of questions and look for hidden fees.
The key to renovating your Auckland Home beautifully yet inexpensively is to devise a goal for yourself, and paint an entire picture of what you want and then step by step renovate each part of your house with the guide of a trusted renovation company – they’ll be able to guide you through the process by giving you sound advice to avoid costly mistakes.
As mentioned above, the term ‘house renovation’ can mean different things to different people. To determine what the scope of work is in different types of home renovations greatly depends on your intention to renovate your home. You need to ask yourself what you are actually trying to achieve with your renovation, in short what is your reason to renovate?
In this blog we will explore different types of home renovations, their scope of work and what does it cost to renovate your full home for different needs.
7. Type 1: Updating a dated Property or an Investment Property – What does is the cost of renovating a full home?
Scope of Work: Kitchen renovation + Bathroom renovation + Re-wiring + Interior Painting + Flooring and Lighting
This type of renovation is ideal for those who want to upgrade or modernize a dated property, and it’s often done on older homes as well as investment properties. Using mid-range supplies, materials, and fixtures, a full house renovation can give your home a fresh new look and add value to your property.
Whether you’re looking to modernize your home, increase its value, or simply create a more comfortable living space, a full house renovation is an investment that can pay off for years to come.
It is important to note that since type of home renovation is to just upgrade or rent out your property, you should use materials that are not too personal to your choice and are budget friendly.
While the cost of labour and project management will remain the same for most types of full home renovations, the cost of the materials you choose will determine the final cost of your full home renovation. We advice our clients to choose neutral colours and to use materials that are from the mid-range category to renovate their homes.
The aim is just to upgrade the areas, give it a clean look and include basic modern features and styles.
Cost of Kitchen renovation
The cost of renovating your kitchen will make a substantial part of the full cost of your home renovation. This type of renovation project involves restoring and painting the existing cabinet doors, and modernizing the kitchen with new laminated floorings, a laminated benchtop, and modern countertops. If the kitchen is small or mid-range materials are used, new cabinets are a possibility. You could use MDF or basic range of acrylic panels for your cabinetry as this is a easy to clean and budget friendly material. Additionally, lights will be repaired as needed. The objective of this renovation is to update the kitchen without changing its layout and while keeping the renovation cost low by utilizing cost-effective materials that have modern conveniences.
An example of this type of kitchen renovation can be seen below. This kitchen features high gloss acrylic panels for cabinetry, laminate floors and freshly painted walls.
This renovation features simple basic high gloss acrylic panels, 30mm benchtop and laminate flooring. The cost for this type of a kitchen will be between $28,000 to $32,000.
Kitchen Cabinetry and Benchtop – What you can expect it to contribute to the cost of renovation your full home
As mentioned, the most cost effective yet budget friendly material for such full home renovations is MDF and mid range acrylic boards. MDF panels remain one of the most popular materials due to it being cost effective and being easy to maintain. MDF stands for Medium-Density Fiberboard. It is a type of engineered wood product that is made by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into wood fibers and combining them with wax and resin binders under high temperature and pressure. The resulting material is then formed into panels that can be used for various applications such as furniture, cabinetry, flooring, and decorative molding. MDF is known for its uniformity, stability, and smooth surface, making it a popular choice for projects that require a consistent finish. It is also an affordable alternative to solid wood and is often used as a substitute for materials like plywood or particleboard.
Mid range high gloss acrylic panels from Ultraglaze is another cost effective and popular material for kitchens. You will have to take care to maintain these cabinets as you may have to wipe them down for fingerprints and food splashes so they do not stain. These acrylic panels from ULTRAglaze are a range of mid range acrylic panels that are attached the the carcass, they however are prone to getting scratched easily unlike their premium counterpart which we will discuss later in the article.
Our renovation showroom at Wairau valley, Auckland showcases such a budget friendly kitchen which features a combination of MDF and mid range acrylic panels for its cabinetry. As seen below, some of the cabinets have a matte finish black MDF panels while the others have high gloss ULTRAglaze acrylic panels.
Dorothy used cost-effective yet trendy materials for the kitchen design. To achieve the matte black look, she utilized Acrylic boards for half of the cabinets. To keep the expenses down, she opted for mid-range Acrylic panels instead of premium ones. For contrast, she used MDF Melteca black boards for other cabinets, which is also a popular material in the renovation industry. The benchtops and wall splashback were made of engineered stone for consistency and the illusion of a larger space. To keep up with current trends, floating shelves were added, and unique features such as a stainless steel open shelf, floating breakfast bar, and wine fridge were incorporated. Overall, the kitchen design is both stylish and affordable.
This kitchen showcases how different materials and colours come together to create a beautiful yet budget friendly kitchen design.
One of the most popular benchtops for basic full home renovations in Auckland is stone engineered benchtop. There is a large range when it comes to the cost as well as design. For a basic kitchen renovation, use a stone engineered countertop from the mid range. A basic kitchen renovation with a renovation company will include flooring, cabinetry, benchtop, all labour and project management. This type of a kitchen renovation will cost between 28K to 30K.
There are however, ways to bring the cost a new kitchen by taking the following steps:
Use a manufacturer and not a renovation company: A manufacturing company will design, manufacture and install the cabinetry. This means that you will have to arrange your own trades like plumbers, electricians, flooring, painters etc. This type of a kitchen renovation will bring the cost of your house renovation and will be about 10K to 15K.
Use laminate benchtop: While laminate benchtops have become a dated choice, there are still some brands that have a range in laminate benchtops which has a modern look to it.
Minimal in built storage: Most people who renovate their kitchens often opt to build custom storage within their cabinetry instead of standard shelving. These include pull out pantries, magic corners to access items from corner L shaped cabinets, pull out condiment drawers etc. Buildings such custom storage solutions will increase the cost of your kitchen in turn increasing the overall cost of your house renovation.
Cost of Bathroom Renovation for a Basic full home renovation in Auckland
If you’re looking to reduce renovation costs for your bathroom, there are some options available to you. One cost-saving method is to leave the existing layout of the sink, bathtub, shower, and toilet as is, and instead focus on replacing outdated fixtures with new, updated models. This can be a more affordable alternative to a full bathroom renovation, which can cost an average of NZD $10,000 to NZD $20,000 in Auckland. However this would mean that you are not using a renovation company but just getting a plumber to swap fittings.
If you are however, wanting to renovate the entire bathroom including re-tiling, painting etc then you may need to use a renovation company. In order to keep the renovation costs down, you can choose tiles that are from the mid range, neutral colours, use an acrylic shower, and use mid range fixtures.
This would cost you between $25,000 and $30,000 which would include cost of all labour, fixtures, project management and products.
The bathroom below shows a standard wall hanging vanity. drop in shower and laminate floors with painted walls. This renovation that we carried out in West Harbour, Auckland is a simple yet fully renovated bathroom. See full project specifications + Pictures for the below project.
This bathroom features simple wall hung vanity, a drop in bathtub, painted walls and dark laminate flooring. This bathroom in West Harbour, Auckland will cost between $28,000 to $30,000.
Another example of a investment property bathroom renovation can be seen below. Our client renovated her entire home using materials in the basic range and her renovation costs remained on the lower side.
The bathroom renovation features a custom built glass shower, a basic toilet and vanity as well as tiled walls and floors from the basic range in Tile Depot.
This rental property we renovated in Hillsborough, Auckland features large tiles, new toilet, vanity and a custom tiled shower. This type of a bathroom renovation will cost between $27,000 to $30,000.
Cost of Re-wiring the house for a full house renovation in Auckland
For the purpose of this article we will be discussing the cost of rewiring the house for a standard 120 meter square home.
When it comes to full house renovations in Auckland, the cost of rewiring a 120 square meter home can vary depending on a number of factors, including the age and condition of the existing wiring, the complexity of the job, and any special electrical needs of the home. On average, you can expect to pay between NZD $5,000 and NZD $15,000 for a complete rewiring of a home of this size.
Rewiring is often important in older homes where the electric wires have been affected due to wear and tear, age or been damaged to an extend due to other factors.
Cost of Painting the interior of a home
Painting the interior of a home or room is a common part of many renovation projects, and it’s important to factor in the cost of painting when planning your renovation budget.
On average, the cost of painting a home interior or room is between $35 and $55 per square meter, with an average cost of $45 per square meter. A painting project can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000, with the national average being $7,500. For a 150 square meter home, the painting cost can range from $5,250 to $8,250, not including GST. If you’re only painting a single room, the cost can vary from $675 to $825. By considering these costs ahead of time, you can better plan and budget for your renovation project.
Cost of Flooring for a Basic Home Renovations in Auckland
Renovating a house can be an exciting but expensive venture, and one of the most significant expenses can be the cost of flooring. In Auckland, the cost of flooring a home can vary widely depending on the type of flooring chosen.
Laminate flooring is a popular and cost-effective option, with prices ranging from $25 to $75 per square meter. This type of flooring is durable, easy to clean, and can mimic the look of other materials like wood or stone. The cost of installation is also relatively low, making it a budget-friendly choice for many homeowners.
Carpet is another popular choice, with prices ranging from $50 to $150 per square meter. This type of flooring is comfortable, warm, and comes in a variety of styles and colors. The cost of installation can be higher than laminate flooring, but it can be a good choice for bedrooms or living areas where comfort is a priority.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious option, tiles can be a good choice. However, they tend to be more expensive, with prices ranging from $75 to $200 per square meter. Tiles are durable, moisture-resistant, and can add value to your home. However, the cost of installation is also higher, and it’s important to work with a reputable and experienced installer to ensure the tiles are properly installed.
There are further affordable options available, including vinyl flooring, concrete flooring, and cork flooring.
Vinyl flooring is known for its durability and affordability, with basic vinyl costing as little as $25 per square meter and luxury vinyl up to $60 per square meter. This can be a great option for homeowners looking to update their flooring without breaking the bank.
Concrete flooring has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to its modern and industrial look. While the cost can vary depending on the complexity of the job, it generally ranges from $60 to $120 per square meter. This can be a great option for homeowners looking to create a unique and contemporary space.
Cork flooring is another eco-friendly and budget-friendly option, with a cost ranging from $50 to $80 per square meter. It’s known for its durability and soundproofing qualities, making it a great option for families or those who value a quiet and peaceful home.
Most of our clients choose laminate flooring for their rental properties as opposed to any others as they are aesthetically pleasing, durable, easy to maintain and budget friendly.
Verdict – How much does it cost for a Basic Full home renovation in Auckland?
The answer to this may be varied but if you renovate your kitchen, and bathroom using basic materials then you can expect to pay $28,000 for a bathroom renovation and $32,000 for a kitchen renovation. For a standard 120 meter square home you can expect to pay between $6,000 to $10,000 for interior painting. Re-wiring should be between $5,000 to 10,000 depending on the complexity of the work and about $5,000 if you choose basic laminate flooring. This kind of a full home renovation in Auckland would cost you between $75,000 to $100,000 depending on the materials you choose, repair work required and complexity of work required.
Type 2: Improving Quality of Living and Increasing functionality – How much does it cost to renovate a house in NZ?
Example of Scope of Work: Kitchen + Bathrooms + Rewiring + Interior Painting + Flooring + Smart Video Alarm Systems installed + Hot water cylinder installed + Insulation + existing windows replaced with double glazing windows + Aircon system installed + Fixing past leaks and damage.
Home renovations in Auckland can dramatically improve the quality of your life, whether you’re buying a house to renovate before moving in or simply want to upgrade your current living space. One of the most common types of home renovations involves improving insulation and adding energy-efficient features such as double glazing windows, air conditioning, and alarm systems. Not only do these upgrades improve your comfort and security, but they can also save you money on energy bills in the long run.
Of course, home renovations can also be costly, especially if you’re using custom fixtures and high-end materials. Mid to high-range suppliers are often the go-to for these types of projects, as they offer more customised options and better quality products. When planning your renovation budget, it’s important to consider all the costs involved, including materials, labour, permits, and any unexpected expenses that may arise.
The three main goals of this type of a house renovation is to increase comfort, be aesthetically pleasing and increasing the functionality of the home. The intention of renovating the home is to make it a personal space for the family and hence, it is important to have a designer on board that can help with achieving these goals.
Importance of having a Renovation Designer for your house renovation
Designers play a vital role in achieving a functional space while achieving an aesthetic look that you are after. Renovation designers like the designers we have within our team at Superior Renovations are different from interior designers. Our renovation designers work closely with all our trades very closely to maximise space, plan zones, and advice our clients on different renovation materials to suit their family’s needs.
Some of the Top 10 things that our renovation designers can help you with are as follows:
Expertise and experience: A kitchen designer with experience in Auckland home renovations can bring valuable insights and recommendations to your project. They can provide guidance on kitchen design Auckland and kitchen design NZ, helping you make informed decisions on layout, space planning, color schemes, and finishes.
Budgeting and cost management: A kitchen designer in Auckland can help you create a budget for your renovation and work with you to manage costs throughout the project. They can provide guidance on sourcing materials and finishes that fit within your budget, helping you prioritize where to spend and where to save.
Creative problem-solving: A kitchen designer in Auckland can help you solve design challenges that arise during the renovation process. They can come up with creative solutions to problems such as awkward layouts, limited space, and challenging structural issues, ensuring that your kitchen design NZ is both functional and attractive.
Increased resale value: A well-designed kitchen renovation can add significant value to your home. A kitchen designer in Auckland can help you create a cohesive and attractive design that will appeal to potential buyers, increasing your home’s resale value.
Space planning: An experienced kitchen designer in Auckland can help you optimize the flow of your kitchen by reconfiguring furniture layouts, removing walls, or adding new ones. They can suggest changes to the overall floor plan to create a more open, functional, and efficient space, ensuring that your kitchen design Auckland is tailored to your needs.
Storage solutions: A kitchen designer in Auckland can create custom storage solutions that meet your specific needs, helping you maximize existing storage space or design new built-in storage solutions that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Lighting: Good lighting is essential for creating a functional and comfortable kitchen. A kitchen designer in Auckland can help you choose the right lighting fixtures and placement to ensure that the space is well-lit and functional.
Material selection: An experienced kitchen designer in Auckland can suggest materials that are both durable and functional, such as low-maintenance flooring that is easy to clean and resistant to wear and tear.
Traffic flow: A kitchen designer in Auckland can help you identify the main traffic patterns in your kitchen and ensure that they are unobstructed. They can suggest moving furniture or adding rugs to create a more open flow.
Zones: A kitchen designer in Auckland can help you create distinct zones within your kitchen, each with its own function and purpose. For example, they might suggest a cooking zone, a food preparation zone, and a dining zone, ensuring that your kitchen design NZ is both practical and stylish.
By focusing on these key areas, a designer can help you create a space that is functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing. They can take into account your personal preferences and lifestyle, as well as any specific needs or challenges posed by the space itself.
Cost of Kitchen renovation which is functional and Beautiful – How does it contribute to the overall renovation costs of a full house renovation in Auckland?
Consider the layout of your kitchen
When it comes to changing the layout of a mid-range kitchen in Auckland, renovation costs will vary based on several factors, including plumbing and electrical changes. If you’re keeping the current layout, the cost will likely be around $32, 000. However, if you want to add an island or change the existing layout, renovation costs can increase to over $35,000. It’s important to consider that changing the layout will impact the overall renovation costs. In cases where the current layout isn’t functional, replacing the stove, sink, or cabinetry may be necessary. The most popular kitchen designs for mid-range kitchens in Auckland include Galley, U-shaped, L-shaped, Island, Peninsular, and Two Island kitchens.
Work Flow of your Kitchen – Making a functional kitchen
When planning house renovations in Auckland, it’s important to consider kitchen ergonomics for a great kitchen design. Ergonomics is the study of designing an environment that fits people rather than the other way around. A work triangle was initially devised to ensure efficiency in the kitchen, with a clear pathway from the stove, cleaning area (sink), and refrigerator. Traffic flow and designated storage areas are also crucial, with a primary pathway throughout the kitchen and clear designated areas for big appliances, cutlery, utensils, washing area, and cooking area.
Distance between fixtures is another key consideration, with enough space between the cooking area and sink, fridge and stove, and island and cooktop. Cooktop placement is especially important for ventilation, and exterior walls are recommended for easier installation of ventilation systems and splashbacks. Vertical storage can help make up for a lack of storage space, and 3D plans are a great way to visualize your kitchen before renovation costs start adding up. Your designer will consider these mind these principles for your kitchen design NZ.
Kitchen Cabinetry for a mid-range kitchen renovation
A mid-range kitchen remodel cost in NZ can offer a lot of flexibility in terms of materials and designs for your cabinets and door handles. For example, one popular option for cabinets is MDF Melteca, a surface that is affordable, easy to clean, and highly durable. Melteca has various ranges of materials, making it a versatile choice for homeowners looking for a mid-range kitchen renovation.
One option to customize your MDF cabinets is to wrap them with Dezignatek Thermoform, which allows you to add any pattern you like to create a traditional, vintage, classic or modern look. For example, a Rhonda pattern can give the cabinets a vintage look. Custom-built cabinets made of real wood are also an option, but they can be more difficult to maintain and are typically more expensive.
Another popular option for cabinets is premium acrylic panels by Laminex. Laminex’s premium acrylic decorative boards are pressed on locally made FSC certified MDF, which makes them both beautiful and durable. These panels have a great depth of color with a matte finish that is made smooth to almost feel like velvet. They are also fingerprint-resistant, easy to clean, scratch-resistant, and stain-resistant. This makes them a great option for busy kitchens where spills and messes are common.
The use of soft close cabinets and durable hinges from Blum and Hafele is a common feature in modern kitchen designs. No-handle setups with LED lights provide a seamless and uncluttered look, while brass handles can give a vintage feel to a traditional style kitchen. Matte knobs against white cabinets can create a classic and clean look.
Countertop: A spotlight on a mid range kitchen renovation – Display in our Renovation showroom in Wairau Valley
The benchtop used in this kitchen design in NZ is made of engineered stone with a concrete look and a matte finish, sourced from supplier UniQuartz. This material is soft to the touch and has a leather finish, making it stain-resistant and durable. It can withstand high temperatures without cracking and is easy to clean.
The cabinet and drawer fronts are made of high-quality acrylic panels mounted on MDF boards. The countertop is made of engineered stone, and there is a recessed veneer underneath it, creating a floating effect.
Choosing materials like engineered stone for a mid-range kitchen remodel can help keep renovation costs down while still achieving a modern and stylish look. The shark nose top edge of the benchtop also adds a unique and visually appealing floating quality to the design.
Kitchen design in NZ can be optimised for storage with several features that maximise space and organisation. Magic corners are a popular solution for hard-to-reach corner cabinets. Cutlery drawers and spice racks are custom-built options that keep utensils and spices within easy reach. Custom-built condiment drawers and pantry pull-out drawers also maximise storage space while maintaining organisation. Pull-out bins can be installed for hygienic waste disposal, and a kitchen island can double as storage, depending on your kitchen layout. Kitchen renovations can come with a high price tag, with the cost of renovating a kitchen island alone ranging from $4,000 to $6,000.
Recommended Flooring
One of the more popular flooring options for kitchens in Auckland is SPC Laminate flooring from Tile Depot. he benefits of using Neptune SPC (stone based laminate) flooring from Tile Depot for kitchen renovations, which is waterproof, easy to apply, free of harmful substances, and comes with anti-bacterial and sound-absorbing technology. The article explains that traditional options such as tiles are hard on the feet and can get cold in winter, while Neptune SPC flooring is durable, easy to maintain, and has a wood-like appearance. The article also mentions that most clients prefer using Neptune SPC flooring for kitchen renovations due to its durability and easy maintenance.
Examples of Splashbacks used in mid-range kitchen renovations: Tiles and Glass splashbacks
The picture below shows a kitchen that we renovated in Henderson Valley. The splashback features strips of large tiles that have smaller tiles that are arranged in a herringbone fashion. See full project specifications + Before and After pictures.
Art Stone Painting grey Chevron 300 by 800 for splashback from Tile depot – They are popular art deco tiles which give a 3D effect creating a great dimension in design.
The Kitchen splashback below shows a black mirror glass splashback for a kitchen renovation in West Auckland – Massey. This is another example splashback for a mid-range kitchen renovation that is suited for this type of a home renovation in Auckland.
Custom made reflector black finish glass splashback behind the sink wall and the wall behind the stove to make cleaning easier.
So how much does a kitchen renovation contribute towards the overall renovation cost of a full house renovation? The answer to this is subjective depending on how much you are changing the layout, what materials you choose and the size of the kitchen. On an average there is a decent level of customisation for this type of a kitchen and clients often prefer incorporating custom storage solutions within the cabinetry.
Overall a kitchen renovation for this type of a home renovation will cost between $35,000 to about $45,000.
Bathroom Renovation for your mid-range Home renovations in Auckland
Just like kitchen renovations, the cost of a bathroom renovation will depend on the fixtures you choose, the flooring options and most importantly if there is a change in layout. Changing the layout of your toilet means that you will have to go through a council process. This will include the architect drawing waste pipes beneath the home and submit it to the council. This adds about $6,000 to $8,000 to the overall cost of the bathroom renovation.
Most clients that are renovating their bathroom in this type of a home renovation often get rid of dated acrylic showers in favour of either wet areas and switch their drop in wall baths for free standing baths. A popular trend has also been to include large 600 by 600/ 600 by 900 tiles for floors and walls. This creates continuity for the bathroom and gives it a clean contemporary look to the bathroom.
The choice in tiles and fixtures greatly determine the cost of the bathroom renovation. The most popular brands that clients use for this type of a bathroom renovation is Englefield, Kohler, Milli, Kado and Mizu. Reece is our preferred bathroom supplier for our clients and carries all the brands mentioned. Tile Depot is our preferred flooring supplier as they carry a range of tiles suited for most tastes and budgets.
An example of a bathroom renovation from the mid-range can be seen below. This bathroom renovation from Henderson valley features a contemporary bathroom with a custom built vanity, free standing bath, brushed brass finish tapware, custom shower, toilet (cannot be seen in the picture) and large tiles. There was no change in layout for this bathroom and this type of bathroom renovation will cost between $32,000 and $35,000. See project specifications for the bathroom renovation below + Before and After pictures.
The bathroom was remodeled in a contemporary design that blended a classic and enduring style. It features a stand-alone bathtub, a tiled shower, a floating vanity, and matte tiles. The bathroom’s design includes three different types of tiles: a lighter neutral grey for the walls, a medium grey for the floors, and a darker grey for the shower. This layering of tile colors creates an elegant and subtle look for the bathroom.
The bathroom showcased below was a bathroom renovation in Albany which features mid-range fixtures from Reece, a custom built shower and the cost of this type of bathroom will also range around $32,000 to $34,000. See full project specifications for renovation below + Pictures.
The bathroom’s design has a modern and contemporary aesthetic that blends seamlessly with the rest of the house. The floor is made up of large 600 by 600 dark tiles, which creates a striking contrast against the off-white 600 by 600 wall tiles. The floating vanity, with an oak finish, adds a touch of warmth to the bathroom.
It’s important to consider the cost of insulation during a full home renovation in Auckland. Insulation costs can vary depending on several factors, including the size of your home, the type of insulation material used, and the complexity of the installation.
When it comes to renovating in NZ, it’s important to keep in mind that proper insulation can improve the energy efficiency of your home, resulting in lower utility bills and a more comfortable living space. In fact, according to the EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority), insulating your home can save you up to $600 per year on heating costs.
The cost of insulation in Auckland typically ranges from $40 to $160 per square meter, depending on the type of insulation material used and the complexity of the installation. For example, installing spray foam insulation can be more expensive than installing fiberglass batts. Additionally, if your home has difficult-to-reach areas that require special attention, this can add to the overall cost.
SPOTLIGHT BELOW: In progress Insulation of an entire 5 bedroom home during a full home renovation in West Harbour, Auckland.
We extensively renovated this home by stripping it down to its main structure and beams in order to insulate the entire home.
All the walls, ceilings and floors were insulated during this home renovation in West Harbour, Auckland.
Overall, the cost of insulation is a worthwhile investment for any homeowner in Auckland planning to renovate their home. Not only can it save you money in the long run, but it can also increase the value of your home and make it a more comfortable living space. So when you’re planning your next renovation project in Auckland, be sure to factor in the cost of insulation.
How much does it cost to double glaze your windows?
the cost of double glazing for windows is a significant factor to consider when budgeting for house renovations. The cost may be influenced by several factors such as window size and quantity, frame material, glass type, insulation level, installation complexity, and contractor expertise and location. All these factors may impact the overall renovation costs. I
it’s important to take these factors into account when planning and budgeting for house renovations that include double glazing to ensure that renovation costs stay within budget.
Most New Zealand homes are either made of plaster, weatherboard, brick or cement. Installing a double glazing unit in a plaster home is a lot more complicated than other materials and you will need a renovation company that specialised in plaster homes to double glaze your windows. For other materials it is easier to carry out double glazing. On an average it will cost you between $3000 – $3500 to double glaze each window for your full home renovation in Auckland. To double glaze a standard 2 bedroom home it will cost you around $35,000 + GST while a standard 3 bedroom home will cost you around $40,000. The cost of double glazing will make a significant portion of your full home renovation costs.
How much does it cost to build a deck? How much does it contribute to the overall renovation costs?
The cost of building a new deck can impact renovation costs, and the price may vary depending on several factors.
“Cost of Building a Deck in Auckland for 2023,” the estimated price ranges for building a new deck in Auckland, New Zealand, are as follows:
Basic deck: $350 to $550 per square metre
Mid-range deck: $550 to $700 per square metre
High-end deck: $700+ per square metre
These price ranges can impact the overall cost of full home renovations, and they are based on factors such as the materials used, the size and complexity of the deck, the type of foundation required, and the level of finishes and detailing. It’s important to consider additional costs such as council permits, site preparation, and landscaping.
It’s worth noting that these price ranges are estimates only, and the actual cost of building a new deck may vary depending on the specific requirements and circumstances of the project.
How much does it cost to install an alarm or security system for your home?
he cost of installing an alarm system in an Auckland home can impact renovation costs, and the price may vary depending on several factors such as the type of system, the size of the home, and the level of security required.
Cost of Installing a Security System in Auckland for 2023,” the estimated price ranges for installing an alarm system in an Auckland home in 2023 are as follows:
Basic system: $800 to $1,500
Mid-range system: $1,500 to $3,000
High-end system: $3,000 to $6,000+
These price ranges can impact the overall cost of full house renovations, and they are based on factors such as the number of sensors, cameras, and other components required, as well as the complexity of the installation. It’s important to consider additional costs such as ongoing maintenance and monitoring fees, as well as any necessary upgrades to existing systems.
How much does it cost to change a water cylinder? – What does it contribute towards the overall renovation costs?
When considering the cost of installation for house renovations, it’s important to note that there may be additional expenses beyond the cost of the cylinder itself. For example, if the new cylinder requires plumbing or electrical work, this may increase the overall cost of the installation. Additionally, there may be expenses related to any necessary upgrades to the existing system, such as new pipes or valves.
The cost of a hot water cylinder can also vary depending on the type of cylinder. For example, an electric hot water cylinder may be less expensive than a gas or solar-powered cylinder. Similarly, larger cylinders will generally cost more than smaller ones.
If you are planning full home renovations in Auckland that include installing a hot water cylinder, it’s important to get an accurate cost estimate from a professional plumber. The estimated price ranges for installing a hot water cylinder in Auckland in 2023 are:
Basic cylinder: $1,200 to $2,000
Mid-range cylinder: $2,000 to $3,500
High-end cylinder: $3,500 to $6,000+
The cost of changing your cylinder is not substantial compared to other aspects of renovations but it is important to consider all the small and big parts of your renovation so you have a realistic idea on what your budget should be.
So how much does it cost to renovate your home for this type of a full home renovation in Auckland?
The answer to this is not simple, as it really depends on the number of areas you are renovating, materials you choose. However as an idea, if you are renovating a standard 3 bedroom home with 2 bathrooms then your overall renovation costs for your full home renovation could look something like this:
Kitchen renovation: If you are using a mix of mid-range and premium range materials for a standard kitchen could start from about $40,000.
Bathroom renovation: Each bathroom could range between $34,000 to 36,000. If you are getting consent related work done then it will add $3,000 to $5000 more depending on the complexity.
Adding or renovating a deck would amount to be about $8,000 or so depending on the size and material used
Double glazing would be around $35,000 or more depending on the number of windows.
If you are getting this type of a renovation for a 3 bedroom standard home then you can expect to pay between $120,000 to $180,000.
Type 3 – Extensive Interior and Exterior renovation with major structural work – How much does a full home renovation cost?
Scope of Work: This type of renovation includes stripping down the house to its main structure and re-doing the entire interior. This would also include exterior renovation which could include re-cladding, renovating the roof, and landscaping, and installing an electronic gate.
Home renovations of this type can be very extensive and require the family to move out of the house for the duration of the project. This type of renovation is typically done for clients who have an old family home but love their location and community. Instead of moving to a new house, they would rather renovate the entire home to something modern and that caters to the needs of all members of the family. Home renovations can involve major changes such as knocking down walls, adding rooms or floors, installing new plumbing and electrical systems, and updating the kitchen and bathrooms. The goal of home renovations is to create a comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing living space that meets the needs of the family and adds value to the property.
This type of home renovations in Auckland are done to also add convenience, modernise an old home, and add a sense of luxury to the home as it would be used as a future comfortable family home.
Kitchen renovation – How does it contribute to the overall renovation costs?
Renovating your kitchen can make a great first impression on your guests, especially in open-plan kitchens. In Auckland, the cost of a luxury kitchen renovation ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 However, it is important to spend your money wisely as the cost of a custom-built luxury kitchen can be limitless. A luxury kitchen typically includes a new layout, custom storage, cabinets, high-quality countertops, marble or designer flooring, and brand-new appliances.
The main difference between mid-range and luxury kitchens is that the latter allows for the incorporation of high-end and premium materials. If you’re looking to renovate your kitchen, be sure to consider the cost and benefits of each option carefully.
In a kitchen renovation, the cabinetry makes up the bulk of the overall renovation cost. For this type of a kitchen renovation, clients often prefer using mid to high end kitchen cabinetry material with ample in-built storage and modern technology.
Handcrafted Kitchen cabinetry
As an example we are showcasing the luxury kitchen display in our renovation showroom. This kitchen displayed in our showroom aims to demonstrate the option of having custom cabinet fronts that are handcrafted to include the design seen in the front of the cabinets.. Crafting this particular kitchen requires a higher level of skill compared to our other kitchen models, as all the cabinets are handmade instead of being produced in a factory. The design of this kitchen was conceptualized by our senior kitchen designer, Cici.
Why are these cabinet fronts so special compared to the others in our kitchen showroom? The actual cabinet fronts are made from MDF which are then cut by hand to make the paneling around the cabinet fronts. This requires quite a high skill set compared to manufacturing the cabinet fronts in a machine.
Our Auckland kitchen showroom offers an opportunity to see a classic kitchen made with luxurious materials that are crafted by hand.
The style of the kitchen also plays a vital role in the design of such a kitchen. Our clients often work closely with our kitchen designers to create a certain style that suits the overall design of the home whether it may be traditional, classic, modern, contemporary, cottage style of industrial style. Each element is selected with a purpose to bring create a particular theme for the kitchen design.
What makes these cabinet fronts unique in comparison to the others showcased in our kitchen showroom? The cabinet fronts are crafted from MDF and cut by hand to create the paneling around them, which requires a higher level of skill than using a machine. All the cabinet fronts are spray-painted with ‘half black white’ matte finish lacquer paint, except for the island cabinets, which are painted with ‘Madison blue’ matte finish lacquer paint.
Handcrafted detailing in our hooded rangehood in our kitchen showroom in Auckland
To produce an attractive contrast with the white cabinets, all cabinet fronts in the classic kitchen were painted using the color ‘Madison blue’.
Typically, classic kitchens feature a neutral palette for the cabinets, as neutrals are timeless and always in fashion. Color is usually added to the design through the use of colorful tiles or brass tapware. However, in this case, Cici, our lead kitchen designer, opted for blue cabinets for the island to give it a more classic cottage-style look. Blues have always been a popular choice in classic country kitchens, and she wanted to create a contrast that would make the kitchen a showstopper. With most kitchens being open-plan, it’s important to pay close attention to the aesthetics of the kitchen design. Cici believes that a kitchen should enhance the beauty of the living space, rather than just being a functional area for cooking.
In Built Appliances
Another feature of this type of a kitchen renovation is to have your larger appliances like dishwashers, bins, fridges etc within the cabinetry for a seamless look. Some examples of this can be seen below:
Benchtops that are 60mm thick are not very typical, as the most commonly used types of benchtops have a thickness of 30mm. The engineered stone benchtop in this case has veined lines designed to imitate the natural lines seen in marble.
Concealing your dishwasher and refrigerator behind your cabinets can give your kitchen a smooth and elegant appearance, which is particularly beneficial for open-plan kitchens where appearance is more important. To achieve this, the dishwasher and fridge are fitted with cabinet fronts that make them look like regular cabinets from the outside. We have installed such hidden appliances in our kitchen showroom to demonstrate their appearance and functionality to our clients.
Hidden dishwasher in our matte black kitchen display in our renovation showroom in Auckland. This gives the overall kitchen a seamless look from the outside and is perfect for open plan living kitchens.
Double bins that go back into the cabinetry for a large scale home renovation in West Harbour, Auckland. This is another feature that adds to the seamless feel of a kitchen.
This magic corner can be seen in our kitchen renovation display in our renovation showroom. This is usually built within the corner L-shaped cabinets as this makes retrieving items in the corner easier and makes for a more organised storage solution.
Most kitchens now are incorporated within a larger living space which promotes an open-plan living. This means that your kitchen design needs to look uncluttered (hence in built storage and hidden appliances) and is aesthetically pleasing which complements the rest of the open space. This means that there is an added emphasis on how the kitchen actually looks.
The feature walls seen below show 2 different kind of splashbacks within the kitchen design. This kitchen has two feature walls, each with its own unique function.
The first feature wall visible below serves to add depth to the kitchen and give it a luxurious appearance. The wall is adorned with 3-dimensional tiles in a sheet format, sized at 256 x 297 x 8mm. These tiles combine marble and gold metal mosaic, and were sourced from Tile Depot, specifically known as ‘Mosaix Lux Gold Herringbone White 275 x 303’.
The Tile Depot’s exquisite tile sheets were utilized to enhance the elegance of this highlighted wall by installing them in a Herringbone pattern. These sheets comprise a blend of stone engineered to resemble marble and gold metal. This display can be viewed at our Auckland (Wairau Valley) kitchen showroom.
These exquisite tile sheets obtained from Tile Depot were utilized to infuse a hint of opulence to the feature wall. The tiles are arranged in a Herringbone pattern, consisting of a blend of stone that mimics the appearance of marble and gold metal. You can view this design in person at our Auckland-based kitchen showroom located in Wairau Valley.
For the area above the cooktop we chose white subway tiles from tile depot. White subway tiles are a defining aspect of classic kitchen designs, and we aimed to integrate them into this particular design. The tiles’ polished finish makes them easy to maintain and suitable as a cooking splashback. Additionally, utilizing two distinct types of splashback tiles in the kitchen contributes to the overall visual appeal and depth of this kitchen design.
The modern rangehood from SMEG has a custom built classic style cabinetry on top of it to mimic the more classic and bygone look of range hoods. This is complemented by white glossy subway tiles for easy cleaning while cooking.
If you are looking at renovating your kitchen with this level of customisation and space then you are looking at spending between $50,000 to $65,000. There are however kitchens in this type of a home renovation that can cost lesser if the space is smaller or if premium acrylic panels are used in place of the hand crafted cabinetry.
Here is an example of a kitchen renovation that will cost you lesser as the cabinet fronts are manufactured using a machine. This kitchen renovation we carried out in Herne Bay, Auckland showcases a kitchen which might look simple but actually featured premium acrylic panels from Laminex.
The kitchen seen below would be in the range of $50,000 to $55,000 owing to the materials used.
This kitchen was renovated using beige matte satin finish laminate from Laminex. They have a satin finish, are stain resistant, have high heat endurance, and fingerprint resistant.
The cabinets are scratch resistant, finger print resistant, stain resistant and have a satin finish. This kitchen also has all its appliances hidden within the cabinetry and also has ample inbuilt storage.
The waterfall countertop is also 60mm thick which is made by joining two pieces of countertop at a 45 degree angle.
A waterfall edge for the 60mm benchtop
Another example of a kitchen renovation in an extensive home renovation is the kitchen seen below. This kitchen was renovated in West Harbour and due to its large size it will cost between $40,000 to $45,000. This kitchen also features premium acrylic panels from Laminex.
This large kitchen features premium laminate panels in high gloss black with a matte finish 30mm waterfall edge benchtop.
Custom Bathroom Renovations – What does it contribute to the overall renovation costs?
Renovation costs for a high-end bathroom renovation in Auckland, New Zealand can vary widely based on several factors. According to industry estimates, the cost of a luxury bathroom renovation can range from $30,000 to $60,000 or more. The actual cost will depend on various factors such as the scope of the project, materials used, and level of customization required.
Many of our clients which want a more luxurious bathroom renovation end up paying about $6,000 to $10,000 on fittings alone as they are renovating to add luxury and comfort in their lives. Others are renovating to upgrade their bathroom from an old and dated space to a bathroom with minor structural change to enlarge a space into something more up to date and modern. This minor structural change could include incorporating a toilet which will require drawings by the architect and constructing additional waste pipes.
Some clients who are looking at luxurious fittings may include a free standing bathtub from Kado (a hotel luxury brand from Reece) that comes upto $3000. Or they may be going for a particular theme in terms of design whether it is a spa inspired bathroom or a contemporary bathroom with feature walls.
Spotlight on some of our luxury bathroom renovations
Vintage Bathroom renovation of a 1920’s bungalow in Auckland:
This bathroom renovation while not a very expensive bathroom, features some premium fixtures such as its free standing bathtub and Edwardian looking vanity. We also faced the challenges of working within a fairly tight space with fittings that were relatively on the larger side. See full project specifications for the bathroom below + Pictures.
This bathroom features a vintage bath, Edwardian basin, vintage subway tiles, and antique looking brass tapware.
Vintage bathroom with a large double wet area.
Bathroom Renovation in West Harbour
4 bathrooms were renovated in the full home renovation in Auckland as this was a large scale and extensive home renovation. The older bathrooms were dated and were renovated to include large tiles, spacious bathrooms, mid-range vanity and bathtub as well as a custom built glass shower. This type of a bathroom does not feature luxury fixtures but instead is a mid range bathroom within a large scale home renovation. See full project specifications for project below + Before and After pictures.
Bathroom renovated in West Harbour as part of an extensive full home renovation in Auckland.
Bathroom Renovation in Redvale
This bathroom was renovated in a contemporary style with matte greyish hued tiles for the floors and walls, free standing bathtub, custom vanity and benchtop, and a tiled shower. See full project specifications + Pictures.
In conclusion a bathroom renovation will make a significant amount towards the overall renovation costs depending on the number of bathrooms, the premium fittings you choose as well as any structural changes that you might be doing. Not all clients that are getting an extensive full renovation get luxurious bathrooms, sometimes they are just upgrading the bathroom to include modern conveniences.
Outdoor home renovations to include Indoor outdoor living – How much does landscaping contribute to the overall renovation cost in a home renovation?
What does landscaping for a full home renovation look like? This type of landscaping usually includes the following:
Outdoor cooking areas to include a BBQ, or a Pizza oven
Pathways and Paving
Electric gates and Fencing
Standard green lawn
What does it cost to create an outdoor deck?
This will depend on the size of the deck, the material used and the complexity of the design. Some of the more premium choices for deck for this scale of a home renovation is Kwilla. According to industry estimates, the cost of building a Kwila deck in New Zealand can range from $350 to $550 per square meter.
In addition to the cost of building the Kwila deck, you should also consider ongoing maintenance costs. Kwila is a hardwood that requires regular oiling to maintain its appearance and prolong its lifespan. Therefore, you should factor in the cost of regular maintenance when budgeting for a Kwila deck.
Spotlight: This home that we renovated includes a Kwilla deck with steps that go towards the fencing of the home. This deck provides ample space for entertaining and gives spectacular views of the seaside in front of it.
The steps leading up the fence of the house. If you are adding additional features like seating then the cost of the deck will increase.
If you are not creating your deck with Kwilla, then there are other options like basic timber which will on an average cost between $1000 to $2000 per square meter. A composite deck will cost between $1500 and $2,500, and hardwood would be between $2000 and $4000 per square meter.
How much does it cost to build a pergola in Auckland?
The cost to build a pergola will also depend on the material used, size, and complexity of design. The average cost to build a standard pergola will be between $3,000 and $5,000. Pergolas are a great addition to enhance the design of your outdoor space.
How much does it cost to incorporate an outdoor cooking area?
Renovation costs for an outdoor cooking area in Auckland can vary depending on factors such as size, materials, appliances, labor, and additional features. The cost of outdoor cooking appliances such as grills, pizza ovens, and smokers can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars each. The materials used for the outdoor cooking area, such as stone, brick, or wood, can also impact the cost. Labor costs for installation and any additional features like seating and dining areas can add to the overall cost. As a general guideline, a fully-equipped outdoor cooking area can cost several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
How much does it cost to create pathways and pavements? How much does it contribute to the overall renovation costs?
As a rough estimate, you can expect to pay between NZD $50 and $150 per square meter for a basic concrete or gravel pathway, while more expensive materials like pavers or natural stone can cost between NZD $100 and $200 per square meter.
Other factors that can impact the cost of building outdoor pathways include the amount of site preparation required, any necessary grading or excavation work, and the cost of any additional features such as lighting or landscaping.
This home renovation in Auckland features a driveway by pouring concrete that was matched in shades with the exterior of the home.
The outdoor renovation part of the project included painting the walls from red brick to a more subtle grey, creating pathways and small gates between areas of the large property.
Pathways were created throughout the property for easily accessing different areas of the outdoor spaces. You can see that blocked pavement was created with pebbles to elevate the overall design of the outdoor area.
How much do electric gates in NZ cost?
lectric gates are a popular choice for homeowners in New Zealand looking for added security and convenience. If you’re considering installing electric gates on your property, it’s important to understand the costs involved.
The cost of building electric gates in New Zealand can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of gate, the materials used, the complexity of the installation, and the cost of labor in your area. In Auckland, the most populous city in New Zealand, electric gates are commonly installed to provide enhanced security and convenience.
As a rough estimate, you can expect to pay between NZD $4,000 and $15,000 or more for electric gates in New Zealand. The cost of materials can vary widely depending on the type of gate you choose, with aluminum or vinyl gates being less expensive than those made from wood or steel.
How much are electric sliding gates?
The type of gate, such as sliding or swing gates, can impact the cost. For a sliding gate, you can expect to pay between NZD $6,000 and $12,000, while a swing gate can cost between NZD $4,000 and $8,000.
How much is the installation of electric gates in Auckland?
The complexity of the installation can also impact the cost. If additional features such as remote control, intercoms, or sensors are required, this can add to the overall cost. A basic electric gate system without any additional features can cost between NZD $4,000 and $6,000, while a more complex system can cost between NZD $8,000 and $15,000 or more.
Labor costs can also vary depending on the contractor or company you choose. The level of experience and expertise required for the installation can also impact the cost. For a basic electric gate system, you can expect to pay between NZD $1,000 and $3,000 for installation, while a more complex system can cost between NZD $3,000 and $5,000 or more.
How much do electric gates cost to run?
Generally, the cost of maintenance for electric gates can range from NZD $100 to NZD $500 per year. This includes routine services such as cleaning, lubrication of moving parts, and testing of safety features.
If the gate requires repairs or replacement of parts, the cost can increase significantly. For example, replacing a damaged gate opener or a malfunctioning sensor can cost between NZD $500 and NZD $1500 or more, depending on the complexity of the repair.
Fencing Cost Per Meter Square
As a rough estimate, you can expect to pay between NZD $100 and NZD $450 per linear meter for a standard timber fence in New Zealand. The cost can increase to NZD $600 to NZD $1000 per linear meter for a high-end timber fence or a fence made from materials like Colorbond steel, aluminum, or PVC. For a concrete fence, the cost can range from NZD $350 to NZD $800 per linear meter.
Cost of fencing in nz
In addition to the materials, the height and length of the fence can also impact the cost. A higher or longer fence will require more materials and labor, resulting in a higher cost. For example, a standard 1.8-meter timber fence can cost between NZD $180 and NZD $810 per meter, while a 2.4-meter fence can cost between NZD $220 and NZD $1000 per meter.
The front door of the home is password protected for added security.
The cost of labour can also vary depending on the contractor or company you choose. The level of experience and expertise required for the installation can impact the cost as well. The average cost of installation in New Zealand is around NZD $50 to NZD $70 per hour. However, the cost can be higher if additional work is required, such as leveling the ground or removing an old fence.
Cost of a New Lawn in NZ – how much does garden landscaping cost?
As a rough estimate, the cost of a new lawn can range from NZD $25 to NZD $55 per square meter, depending on the type of grass used and the preparation work required. The cost of a new garden can range from NZD $150 to NZD $350 per square meter, depending on the materials used and the complexity of the design. The cost of retaining walls can range from NZD $300 to NZD $700 per square meter, depending on the materials used and the height of the wall.
The cost of labour can also vary depending on the contractor or company you choose. The average cost of installation in New Zealand is around NZD $50 to NZD $70 per hour. However, the cost can be higher if additional work is required, such as extensive site preparation or the installation of complex features.
We created designated areas for our clients to grow vegetables in their back courtyard.
All areas were divided by small gates for designated areas such as lawn, the front driveway, the vegetable garden and back courtyard.
We lay a medium sized lawn with fencing for outdoor entertainment.
So How much does it cost to renovate a house for this scale of a home renovation?
This kind of a home renovation like all others will depend on the scope of work as well as the size of the home. A kitchen renovation will cost you anything between $45,000 to $80,000 depending entirely on the size and the materials you choose. Bathroom renovations on the other hand will atleast average around $35,000 and more depending on the fitting you choose. The number of bathrooms that you have will also contribute towards the overall renovation costs.
You also have to keep into account all the painting work, landscaping, double glazing and any security systems you are putting in place. On an average home renovations of this extent for a large home will be between $250,000 to $500,000.
Budget Friendly Home Renovation Ideas
Renovating your home doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little bit of creativity and effort, there are many budget friendly home renovation ideas that can make a big impact. Some of these ideas include repainting walls or furniture, updating light fixtures or refinishing kitchen cabinets. DIY projects are another fun and creative project to do is upcycling old furniture as that provides another affordable way to update your home. We have provides some budget friendly renovation ideas below to help you transform your space without breaking the bank.
Kitchen
1. New Countertops
A five digit kitchen renovation can include cabinets, worktops, and fixtures. Yet, if your cabinets are in reasonable condition, you can improve one of your home’s most used surfaces with brand new worktops. You may also be able to afford a more expensive material if you only need to cover a smaller amount of square footage.
2. Change the Splashback
Replace a worn out splashback with one that brightens your kitchen and provides visual intrigue to offer a punch of design. Tile, stone, glass, ceramic, and beaded board are just a few of the alternatives available, giving you a wide range of options to pick a material that fits your budget. Another cost-effective choice is to only put in a splashback where it will offer the greatest level of protection, such as behind a range or close to a sink.
Splashback in kitchen
3. Add a Faux Island
Having standalone cabinets or tables in a kitchen without an island can save money. All you need to do is move the component at will by installing rolling caster. It will cost you more to relocate if you include if you include more frills, such as cabinets with drawers. In your home renovations, start with a basic table if you want to stay inside your budget.
Kitchen island with cabinets and storage space
4. Upgrade Cabinets or Cabinet Doors
Wallpaper, paint, and peel and stick wood goods. All are fantastic choices for giving antique cabinets a fresh look in your home renovations. Without having to add extra shelves, you may create easily accessible open storage in your house renovation Auckland by taking the doors off some top cabinets. In addition to fitting your budget, look for ways to update your home that will also improve how you use the area on a regular basis.
Living Room
1. Update Flooring
Many peel and stick flooring solutions are thin enough that you can change the flooring in tour room without removing the old one. Even if you must remove the floor because you are no longer able to take it. A new floor can be an affordable, long-lasting job on its own in your house renovations.
New flooring in full house renovation
2. Change Window Treatments
The addition of new fabric, window treatments, or a mix of the two can give a living room a lovely makeover. Older windows can be effectively concealed using a variety of do it yourself choice. In your budget friendly home renovations try to reuse the curtain rods and rings that are already there to save a little additional money.
3. Install Dimmers
Finding the ideal balance of light may be difficult if your home lacks adequate overhead lighting. In older homes with fewer outlets accessible for floor and side lighting, this may be why your home lacks lighting. In your house renovations Auckland, we recommend installing dimmer switch as this can be a quick and simple solution to get better overhead lighting. When working, keep the lights bright. When relaxing, turn it down for softer ambient lighting.
Bathroom
1. Add a Medicine Cabinet
A straightforward, cost-effective adjustment may give your bathroom both flair and storage. To add storage and a fresh aesthetic, swap out a plain wall mount mirror. Add a cork board or blackboard to the inside of the door if you’re feeling crafty for daily reminders and affirmations.
Medicine Cabinet for Extra Storage Space
2. Wallpaper an Accent Wall
Wallpaper is an excellent project for a home makeover on a budget because it has gotten easier to complete, even for beginner DIYer. Wallpaper is a quick and easy way to add pattern and colour, and it’s entirely fine to use it only on one accent wall. However, if you’re not quite ready to take on proper wallpapering. Try the transient peel and stick variety. You don’t have to worry about trying out a current design trend because you can remove it easily if your décor style changes.
Accent Wall in Bathroom
3. Add Storage
A purchased cabinet or open shelves might make all the difference if you lack built in storage. Look for pre-made storage solutions that are designed to maximise vertical space, such as tiered carts, leaning ladders and apothecary cabinets. They provide a lovely and useful storage alternative, and you can use them in place of ornamental elements like baskets.
4. Swap Out Hardware
With new hardware, bathroom cabinets can be given a contemporary makeover. Choose various designs from the same family or combine various treatments for a more eclectic appearance. If your existing knobs lend themselves to a more sculptural flair, consider adding backplates.
5. Safety Updates
Although towel bars and toilet paper rack are typically not particularly attractive fixtures, they offer a chance for you to increase the safety of your bathroom. It’s a wise investment at any moment, whether you’re thinking of someone else or yourself in the future.
Bedroom
1. Add Interest to Walls or Ceilings
If your bedroom walls or ceilings are plain, you can simply add wainscoting or trim even without a supply of power tools. Even better, you can create the appearance of wainscoting by outlining a section of the wall with trim or timber, then using paint to connect the wall and trim to replicate the real thing. Without the expensive price, it appears high end. Select prefinished millwork to reduce labour costs. Alternative you can finish it yourself to reduce your home renovation budget.
Plants and paintings added to bedroom | Photo Credit – Unsplash
2. Add a Headboard
Add a headboard to your bedroom for a reliable way to modernise it. Whether it’s small and elegant or large and striking. They can be quite pricey when brought brand new. But DIY headboards offer many opportunities to maximise both your design and your spending power in your house renovations Auckland.
3. Inset Display Shelves
Kid’s bedroom present a constantly changing home renovation challenge. They rapidly transition from toys and books to collectibles and beyond, and it can be challenging to find a place to store all of that stuff. Adding narrow, wall-to-wall shelves is a straightforward home improvement change that is inexpensive. They suit in a range of bedroom sizes, are affordable, and don’t take up a lot of space.
Dining Room
1. Install a New Light Fixture
Dining areas frequently live in a time warp cause by their lighting. However, for a few hundred dollars and a little electrical DIY, you can give your room a focal point that completely changes the atmosphere. Choose a convention chandelier or several pendants for a more modern look.
2. Reinvigorate a Built In
Obscured spaces, such as the wall or back panel behind shelves, don’t get much attention. But those are great stops to add pops of colour with paint or wallpapers. Another idea – swap out the door inserts for glass or apply coloured film to existing glass. These little touches can go a long way to making a room feel renewed.
The wall of back panel that is hidden behind shelves, for example, receives little attention. However, those are excellent places to add splashes of colour using paint or wallpaper. Another option is to replace the door panels with glass or cover existing glass with coloured film. These small adjustments can have a big impact on how refreshed a space feels.
Entry
1. Create a Mini Mudroom
Even in a small area, all you really need to construct a life-changing, cost-effective mudroom is a seat, a shelf, and some hooks. You can either combine used and repurpose pieces with less expensive newer items that function as a whole solution or you can purchase expensive organisers made specifically for this reason. If you have the room, it helps to have a cubby for each person of the family to simplify daily tasks.
7. What should I look for when choosing a renovation company? ↑
Don’t get distracted by flashy websites, and nicely designed vehicles – the right renovation company only needs to have experience, resources, organizational skills and a genuine interest in helping you renovate your dream home, see below on what you should look for.
Here are the top 5 things Aucklanders should be looking for in a potential renovator:
An impressive portfolio of past projects – Check for case studies and details of the renovation (specifications) and ask a lot of questions. Another reason why you want to choose a company with an impressive portfolio of past projects is that a company that has done a lot of renovations, would have also been through a lot lessons/mistakes along the way that you can avoid.
A proven track record with projects of similar scale and detail – Make sure you choose company that has done work that is similiar if not the same as what you’re looking for. The mistake most people make is choosing a company that does everything, but an expert in nothing.
Great communication– Clues are in their online reviews (unsolicited) and video testimonials (if any, not all companies have this and it’s not easy to get raving clients). Ask for details of past clients who are happy to be called and interview them, if a company can’t provide you a list of at least 5 – there may be red flags.
Excellent organisational skills – This may be a bit difficult to judge, but it’s in the details such as:
What was their sales process like? was it systemised?
How was their follow up and their initiative?
How well did the booking go with the office team?
Was there a clear indication of next steps?
How accurate was their proposal based on your requirements?
Great real customer testimonials, and not from their website: Google them, visit other pages besides their website, and check out their Facebook reviews/posts ( are there any negative comments?)
Make sure they are affiliated with reputable suppliers: Make sure you know where they are getting their supply from to ensure you’re getting good quality fittings installed, and you’re also backed by independent product warranties.
8. House renovations before and after (NZ) by Superior Renovations
Before Kitchen Renovation
After Kitchen Renovation
After Bathroom Renovation
Before Kitchen Renovation
Before Kitchen Renovation
After Kitchen Renovation
Before – Kitchen and House Renovation
After – Kitchen and House Renovation
After Kitchen Renovation
If you’re looking for “specific” cost estimates, try our Renovation Cost Calculator Tools
Will I have a choice of fixtures and fittings and can I supply them myself?
Absolutely – if you would like to purchase anything directly and provide it for installation at the appropriate time then we have no objections to this but we always suggest clients to choose our suppliers for a number of reasons, we’re confident of the quality, we can manage the logistics, trade prices, and any troubleshooting during the renovation is easier since we can direct contact.
Do I need to employ any other trades for the renovation?
Generally an established renovation company will have all their trades setup and a network of suppliers they use and trust. It just makes the renovation a lot less stressful and cost-effective. A house renovation will typically require 8 – 10 different trades and if any of which are unreliable they will affect all other trades involved. For this reason we are reluctant to carry out a renovation if a customer wishes to employ trades separately.
All the builders I’ve spoken to say they can do my Job. What makes Superior Renovations different?
Yes, there are many builders out there today, but Superior Renovations are not just builders. We specialise in Home Renovations, and that is important when transforming existing properties into modern contemporary homes – our service isn’t limited to renovation but we also take care of the design process, consultation process with architects, consents and supplier communication/logistics.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
Generally a kitchen renovation will be between 5-6 weeks from date of demolition and this assumes design is finalised and parts have been manufactured (not including splash back which takes additional time for manufacturing)
How long does bathroom renovation take?
Generally a bathroom renovation will between 3-4 week from date of demolition, however will be longer if it involves consent.
How to plan house renovation?
Work out exactly what you’re getting done first and receive a detailed scope of works from your renovation company. Once this is received, then you know what you need to consider – check lists are very helpful to simply the process otherwise it does become overwhelming. You’ll find plenty of check lists online (eg how to choosing a builder), also check out Superior Renovations E-book (plenty in there for you to use).
How long does house renovation take?
Normally full house renovations would take between 3-6 months dependant on the scope of the renovation, complexity and size of the renovation.
How much to spend on full house renovation?
The average spend for a full house renovation in Auckland (including bathrooms and kitchen) is between $80,000 - $160,000 dependant on the size of home, building requirements, choice of products/fittings and a number of factors.
Do I need a building consent for my renovation?
If you are carrying out building work you may need to apply for a building consent. Here are some examples of work that requires consent: Any structural building including new buildings, additions, alterations, accessory buildings (sheds), and re-piling Changes to original plumbing and drainage Site works for a building Retaining walls higher than 1.5 metres, or retaining walls with a building or driveway near the top Fences higher than 2.5 metres and any swimming pool fence Swimming pools Decks more than 1.5 metres from ground level If in doubt we recommend you ring your local council and discuss your project with them.
Need more information?
Take advantage of our FREE Complete Home Renovation Guide (48 pages), whether you’re already renovating or in the process of deciding to renovate, it’s not an easy process, this guide which includes a free 100+ point check list – will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
Video Testimonial by John Grant (Herne Bay, Auckland) – Full House Design and Renovation, Breathing New Life Into A Family Home
“Cici was the key person we worked with, super easy to work with, nice sense of humour and not too serious but she also got the work done…. I just like their work ethic, because we wanted the place finished up by Christmas and they were working extra hours until it was done for us”
The future of home automation with Robert Knight from PDL by Schneider Electric
In our latest video, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Robert Knight from PDL to dive deep into how Wiser could revolutionize the way you think about your home. Imagine blinds that snugly close to retain warmth, a heat pump that kicks in just before things cool down, or lights that gently dim as you drift off to sleep. With Wiser, it’s not just about technology; it’s about creating a space that truly understands and adapts to your lifestyle.
At Superior Renovations, we’re all about innovation and pushing boundaries. Partnering with forward-thinking companies like PDL allows us to bring you the latest and greatest in home automation technology, ensuring you’re equip with all the available options when it comes to choosing what you want for your home renovation.
Stay tuned for future videos with Robert to understand more about safety features, Home Automation Features, Wiser Home App and their Designer Range.
Visit our Showroom at Wairau Valley (16b Link Drive, Wairau Valley, Auckland) to explore more options from the Iconic Range by PDL by Schneider Electric. You can also consult our designers to help you choose the right lighting surface for your bathroom or kitchen design.
Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations
As the sun dips below the Southern Alps and paints the New Zealand sky in fiery hues, a spirit of transformation whispers through the air. It’s 2024, and the kiwi’s inherent love for innovation, sustainability, and well-being is manifesting in a vibrant tapestry of home renovation trends. From blurring the lines between indoors and nature’s embrace to carving out personal sanctuaries that reflect unique souls, these trends offer a tantalizing glimpse into the future of NZ homes.
1. Biophilic Bliss
Forget sterile walls and stark minimalism. Biophilic design is a tidal wave crashing onto the NZ renovation scene, urging us to embrace nature’s restorative power. Imagine sprawling indoor jungles of cascading ferns and vibrant philodendrons, where sunlight streams through skylights, painting dappled patterns on the rich hues of reclaimed wood floors. Pocket courtyards burst with fragrant herbs and colorful blooms, transforming your home into a verdant oasis. Studies have shown that incorporating natural elements into our living spaces reduces stress, promotes creativity, and boosts overall well-being (1). So, step outside, breathe in the crisp air, and let nature inspire you to weave its calming magic into your home.
2. Eco Warriors of Renovation
Kiwis are fiercely proud of their pristine landscapes, and this love for the land transcends into the realm of home renovations. Sustainability is no longer a buzzword, but a battle cry, leading the charge towards eco-conscious transformations. Imagine kitchens adorned with sleek, energy-efficient appliances that hum quietly, powered by rooftop solar panels basking in the sun’s bounty. Walls breathe with the help of recycled insulation, while reclaimed timber finds new life as countertops and shelves, whispering tales of past forests. The EECA Warmer Kiwi Homes programme becomes your trusted ally, empowering you to unlock grants for these eco-friendly upgrades (3). Remember, sustainable renovations aren’t just a fad; they’re an investment in the future of your home and the planet.
3. Outdoor Living Symphony
New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes beg to be savored, and outdoor living spaces are evolving into integral extensions of our homes. Picture expansive decks seamlessly blending with living areas, their warm timber floors echoing the embrace of the surrounding forests. Imagine plush outdoor furniture inviting you to sink into comfort, while a rustic pizza oven beckons with the promise of wood-fired feasts under the starlit sky. Cozy firepits crackle, casting warm glows on laughter-filled evenings with loved ones. Don’t just exist within your walls; extend your living space, embrace the symphony of nature, and let your home become a canvas for alfresco memories (4).
4. Multifunction Maestro
Space in NZ homes is precious, and multifunctional rooms are the maestros conducting a harmonious orchestra of utility. Living areas morph into dining spaces with the flick of a dining table, while cleverly concealed workstations tucked away in cabinetry transform kitchens into home offices. Bedrooms become havens for both slumber and productivity, with built-in desks and storage solutions maximizing every square foot. This isn’t about cramming furniture; it’s about orchestrating a seamless flow of function, where each space effortlessly adapts to your evolving needs (5).
5. Smart Home Symphony
Technology is no longer a distant echo; it’s an intricate melody woven into the fabric of our homes. Imagine smart lighting systems that adjust to your mood, casting warm hues for cozy evenings or cool blues for focused mornings. Thermostats whisper to your comfort, maintaining the perfect temperature without a moment’s thought. Security systems become invisible guardians, while appliances dance to your voice commands, freeing you to focus on the truly meaningful moments. Embrace the smart home symphony; let technology be your silent conductor, harmonizing your routines and elevating your comfort to new heights (6).
6. Upcycling and Repurposing Renaissance
Sustainability meets creativity in the upcycling and repurposing renaissance. Vintage furniture, once relegated to dusty attics, is reborn as statement pieces, its weathered patina whispering tales of bygone eras. Old doors transform into rustic coffee tables, while discarded pallets find new life as garden planters bursting with vibrant blooms. This trend isn’t just about saving resources; it’s about injecting your home with a unique soul, where every object breathes a story of your individuality and resourcefulness (7).
7. Wellness Whispers
Homes are our sanctuaries, and prioritizing well-being through design is no longer a whisper, but a booming chorus. Natural light floods spaces, banishing shadows and infusing them with life-giving energy. Calming color palettes, inspired by the soft hues of New Zealand’s native flora, soothe the senses and evoke tranquility. Dedicated relaxation areas, bathed in the gentle murmur of water features, beckon you to unwind. Yoga studios nestle in hidden corners, and home gyms equipped with state-of-the-art equipment empower you to sculpt your body and mind. Remember, wellness isn’t just about physical health; it’s a holistic symphony of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Let your home be the conductor, orchestrating a space that nurtures your soul and guides you towards a flourishing life.
8. Community Crescendo
With the rhythm of remote work and flexible living arrangements becoming ever stronger, fostering a sense of community within the home becomes a vital melody. Imagine shared spaces buzzing with activity, co-working areas where professionals collaborate and ideas spark, and communal gardens where neighbors gather, tending to the earth and cultivating connections. Rooftop terraces transform into social hubs, offering panoramic views and a stage for laughter-filled evenings under the stars. This trend isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about weaving threads of connection, creating a home that resonates with the spirit of collaboration and shared joy (9).
9. Local Love’s Embrace
Supporting local businesses and minimizing carbon footprints are the driving forces behind the trend of using locally sourced materials in renovations. Imagine walls adorned with handcrafted timber cladding from sustainably managed NZ forests, their grains whispering tales of ancient trees. Floors gleam with recycled stone sourced from nearby quarries, while bespoke furniture fashioned by local artisans reflects the unique aesthetic of your community. This isn’t just about choosing materials; it’s about investing in the fabric of your community, supporting the skilled hands that shape your environment, and minimizing the environmental footprint of your renovation (10).
10. House Extension Harmony
Sometimes, your heart beats for more than your existing walls can hold. House extensions become a melodic solution, adding extra space to amplify your life’s symphony. Imagine second-floor additions bathed in light, offering panoramic views or becoming dedicated havens for creativity and work. Granny flats bloom alongside the main house, providing space for aging parents or welcoming the rhythm of intergenerational living. Sunrooms burst with sunlight, inviting nature’s embrace and extending your living space beyond the traditional walls. Remember, an extension isn’t just about square footage; it’s about expanding the possibilities of your home, creating a space that adapts to your evolving needs and dreams (11).
11. Outdoor Renovation Rhapsody
Don’t let your backyard remain an unsung verse in the symphony of your home. Landscape transformations paint a vibrant melody, where pathways winding through lush greenery guide you to hidden corners of tranquility. Water features add their gentle murmur, while pergolas draped in bougainvillea create pockets of shade and romance. Decks become stages for alfresco dining and stargazing, their timber echoing the warmth of crackling firepits that cast a glow on laughter-filled evenings. Outdoor renovations aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about extending your living space, weaving nature’s beauty into your daily life, and creating a canvas for unforgettable memories (12).
12. Pergola & Deck Duets
Pergolas and decks are the instrumentalists in the outdoor living orchestra, offering shade, shelter, and an additional stage for life’s performance. Imagine timber pergolas adorned with climbing vines, their leafy canopies filtering sunlight into dappled patterns. Choose from sleek minimalist designs or rustic timber structures, each echoing the melody of your home’s architectural style. Decks become extensions of your living space, their warm timber floors blending seamlessly with indoor areas. Consider decking materials like sustainably sourced composite or locally-grown hardwoods, ensuring beauty and longevity. Pergolas and decks aren’t just structures; they’re invitations to slow down, soak up the sun, and create memories that resonate with laughter and the sweet melody of birdsong (13).
13. Double Glazing Symphony
Forget the cacophony of traffic or the biting wind that chills your bones. Double glazing windows become the soundproof maestros in your home’s symphony, insulating you from the outside world and weaving a cocoon of comfort. Imagine windows that not only reduce energy bills by keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer but also create a haven of tranquility, where the only music is the whisper of the wind through the trees and the gentle strum of raindrops on glass. Double glazing isn’t just about practicality; it’s about investing in your peace of mind, creating a sanctuary where you can truly unwind and savor the quiet moments (14).
14. Bespoke Kitchens – Culinary Crescendo
The kitchen is the heart of the home, where culinary symphonies are composed and shared. Bespoke designs become the personalized melody, reflecting your unique culinary passions and seamlessly blending with your overall style. Imagine handcrafted cabinetry in rich timber tones, their smooth surfaces whispering tales of skilled craftsmanship. High-quality appliances, chosen for both function and form, become your trusted instruments in the kitchen, their sleek lines and intuitive interfaces echoing the rhythm of your cooking style. Consider smart technologies that seamlessly integrate, transforming mundane tasks into effortless experiences. A bespoke kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that ignites your culinary passion, fosters connection with loved ones, and becomes the heart of your home’s joyful symphony (15).
15. Personalized Sanctuary – Final Chorus
Cookie-cutter homes are a distant melody in today’s symphony of individuality. Embrace your unique spirit and let your home be the final, triumphant chorus of your personality. Bold design choices become the vibrant flourishes, adding splashes of color and unexpected textures that reflect your inner spark. Statement pieces, curated with love and care, become the focal points, singing tales of your travels, passions, and cherished memories. DIY projects, infused with your creativity and dedication, add a personal touch, weaving a thread of your soul into the very fabric of your home. Remember, a personalized sanctuary isn’t about following trends; it’s about creating a space that speaks your truth, resonates with your spirit, and allows you to live your life’s unique and beautiful melody to the fullest.
The trends we’ve explored are just the opening notes in the ever-evolving symphony of home renovation in New Zealand. Stay informed, listen to the whispers of inspiration in your surroundings, and embrace the rhythm of change. Remember, your home is your instrument, your canvas, your sanctuary. Play your own unique melody, let your creativity dance with innovation, and above all, create a space that reflects the beautiful symphony of your life.
To Summarise
What are the key themes shaping home renovations in NZ in 2024?
The main themes are sustainability, well-being, connection, and personalization. Kiwis are embracing natural elements, eco-friendly practices, spaces that promote relaxation and community, and unique designs that reflect their individual styles.
Why should I consider incorporating these trends into my renovation?
These trends not only improve your home's aesthetics and comfort but also contribute to sustainability, enhance your well-being, foster connections with loved ones and neighbors, and ultimately create a space that truly reflects your personality.
How can I make my renovation more sustainable?
Use recycled or reclaimed materials, opt for energy-efficient appliances and fixtures, incorporate renewable energy sources like solar panels, and prioritize locally sourced materials.
Is double glazing worth the investment?
Yes, double glazing can significantly improve thermal insulation, reducing energy bills and creating a more comfortable living environment. It also reduces noise pollution and creates a quieter haven.
How can I make my home reflect my unique personality?
Embrace bold design choices, incorporate statement pieces you love, showcase your hobbies and passions through curated objects, and don't be afraid to DIY and add your own creative touch.
Where can I find more information about these trends and renovation inspiration?
Check out local design blogs, architecture magazines, and social media platforms. You can also talk to reputable contractors, architects, and interior designers for expert advice. Additionally, organizations like EECA and local environmental groups offer resources and grants for sustainable renovation projects.
Remember, your home renovation is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy the process, embrace the possibilities, and most importantly, create a space you love and feel comfortable calling your own.
Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations
Dreaming of transforming your Auckland abode with a spacious extension? Whether you crave extra room for a growing family, yearn for a luxurious home office, or envision seamless indoor-outdoor living, an extension can revitalize your space and dramatically improve your quality of life. But before construction commences, careful planning and preparation are crucial for a smooth and rewarding journey. This comprehensive guide unveils everything you need to know about planning a house extension in Auckland in 2024, from defining your needs to navigating permits and choosing the perfect architect.
Try Our House Extension Cost Calculator
The cost of a house extension in Auckland can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the size of the extension, the type of materials used, and any additional features you want to include. Calculator has been updated to reflects prices in the year 2025, estimates generated by the calculator is subject to change. The prices are based on average costings in the Auckland region, price’s may vary in other regions of New Zealand (eg cost of consent).
Space Creation: A cramped kitchen, crowded bedrooms, or a lack of dedicated work areas – extensions solve these space dilemmas, fostering functional and comfortable living. As architect Tom Wilkinson of TWW Architects highlights, “A well-designed extension can breathe new life into an existing home, providing much-needed space and improving the overall flow and functionality.”
Boosting Property Value: Adding square footage translates to increased market value. In Auckland, the 2024 QVNZ House Price Index reveals an 18.5% year-on-year price increase, and a well-designed extension can add even more to your home’s worth. Real estate agent Sarah Jones of Ray White Auckland Central notes, “In my experience, a successful extension can add up to 20% to the property value, making it a worthwhile investment.”
Lifestyle Upgrade: Imagine a sun-drenched family room seamlessly merging with the garden, a luxurious walk-in wardrobe attached to your bedroom, or a gourmet kitchen perfect for hosting. Extensions elevate your daily experience, transforming your house into a sanctuary of comfort and enjoyment. Superior Renovations Head of Design (Dorothy) emphasizes, “A house extension is more than just adding bricks and mortar; it’s about creating a space that truly enhances your lifestyle and reflects your personality.”
Navigating the Roadmap of Planning a House Extension
Needs & Budget Decoded
Before architects and blueprints, define your vision. What additional rooms do you crave? How much are you willing to invest? This clarity ensures your project aligns with your aspirations and financial realities. As financial advisor Peter Brown of Moneywise Auckland advises, “Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Factor in unforeseen costs and leave room for flexibility.”
Architect or Designer: Your Creative Companions
Seek the expertise of a qualified architect or designer. They’ll translate your needs into blueprints, manage permits, and guide you through the design process, ensuring an extension that complements your house’s style and blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Architect Lisa Williams of Studio Williams reminds us, “Choose an architect who not only listens to your needs but also challenges your ideas and brings their expertise to the table.”
Permit Procurement
Understanding and obtaining the necessary permits is crucial. From building consents to resource consents, your architect or designer will advise you on the permits required for your specific project, ensuring compliance with Auckland Council regulations. Remember, as planner John Lee of Auckland Council points out, “Getting the right permits upfront saves you time and money in the long run.”
Builder Selection: The Brick-and-Mortar Masters
Choosing the right builder is paramount. Opt for a licensed and experienced professional with a stellar reputation and references. Don’t hesitate to interview multiple builders, ask for detailed quotes, and ensure their expertise aligns with your project’s requirements. Kevin from Superior Renovations stresses, “Communication is key. Choose a builder who clearly explains the process, answers your questions honestly, and keeps you updated throughout the project.”
Budgeting Brilliantly
Comparative Quote Collection
Don’t settle for the first price tag you encounter. Secure quotes from several builders to compare costs and services. Remember, the cheapest quote might not guarantee the best quality or experience. As financial blogger Sarah Green of MoneySaver.co.nz advises, “Do your research and compare apples to apples. Get detailed quotes that break down the costs of materials, labor, and permits.”
Cost Considerations Beyond Bricks and Mortar
Factor in permits, architect/designer fees, materials, finishes, and potential unforeseen expenses. A 10-15% contingency buffer in your budget will provide peace of mind in case of unexpected costs. Building consultant Peter Jones of Project Management Auckland suggests, “Break down your budget into different categories and track your spending throughout the project.”
Hidden Cost Catchers
Be aware of potential cost inflators like complex architectural details, custom finishes, or extensive groundwork modifications. Discuss these aspects with your architect and builder upfront to avoid budgetary surprises. Architect Tom Wilkinson adds, “Simplicity can be cost-effective. Opt for clean lines and functional designs to keep your budget on track.”
Step by Step Process to House Extensions in Auckland
Step 1: Define Your Needs and Budget:
Before contacting any professionals, take time to identify your extension goals. What additional rooms do you need? How much space do you envision? Set a realistic budget considering unforeseen costs and leave room for flexibility. Remember, as financial advisor Peter Brown of Moneywise Auckland advises, “It’s crucial to have a clear vision and financial roadmap before embarking on your extension journey.”
Step 2: Find the Right Renovation Company and Architect:
Research and gather recommendations for reputable renovation companies specializing in house extensions. Request quotes and interview multiple companies to gauge their experience, communication style, and understanding of your needs. Once you choose your preferred company, ask for their recommendations for a qualified architect or designer. Architect Lisa Williams of Studio Williams emphasizes, “A good architect acts as your creative partner, translating your vision into a functional and aesthetically pleasing reality.”
Step 3: Initial Consultation with Architect:
At Superior Renovations, we are partnered with Sonder architects for all our consent related renovations. Sonder architects head office is situated with our showroom in 16B Link drive, Wairau Valley making it easily accessible to our clients as well as consultants.
If you do have a consent related enquiry, like garage conversion, extension etc, our process would look as follows:
Your enquiry received by us.
We will contact you, understand your requirements and then send you details of Sonder’s head architect and they will be cc’d in the email as well.
John will then carry out a feasibility study and request a property file which can be requested from Auckland council by you.
Once John has received the property file, he will arrange an onsite visit to your home to discuss your options.
If you are good to go then they will do concept drawings as well as give you a quote for architectural drawings that are required to be submitted to Auckland council to obtain a permit.
If you accept the quote, our architect will create the architectural drawings.
Once the drawings are done, our renovation consultant will go through the plans and conduct an onsite visit to discuss design ideas, measure the space etc to create a proposal with a fixed quote, project specifications and designs. Once the plans are approved your renovation will begin.
Discuss your ideas and budget with the architect in detail. Share reference images, inspirations, and any concerns you might have. The architect will assess your existing house, property limitations, and potential zoning restrictions. Based on this consultation, they will present initial design concepts and a rough cost estimate.
Key Steps:
Consultation: Let’s sit down for a chat about what you’re envisioning for your home.
Feasibility Study: We’ll conduct a feasibility study to see if your project is doable. This includes checking out the site, understanding council regulations, and spotting any potential hiccups.
Cost Estimate: You’ll get a rough estimate of the costs involved to make sure everything fits within your budget.
Step 4: Developing Concept Plans and Obtaining Permits:
The architect will refine the design based on your feedback, creating detailed concept plans with specifications for materials, finishes, and layouts. Remember, open communication is key. Don’t hesitate to express your preferences and concerns at every stage. Meanwhile, your architect or renovation company will assist you in navigating the necessary permits required by Auckland Council.
Key Steps:
Concept Design: Work with our architect to create a concept design that brings your vision to life.
Detailed Design: We’ll develop detailed architectural drawings, including floor plans, elevations, and even some 3D renders to give you a clear picture.
Council Approvals: We’ll handle submitting the detailed design to your local council for planning and building consent, ensuring everything complies with New Zealand’s building regulations.
Step 5: Finalizing Plans and Costing:
With finalized concept plans in hand, the architect will provide a comprehensive breakdown of the project costs, including materials, labor, permits, and unforeseen contingencies. Be sure to review the breakdown carefully and ask clarifying questions before proceeding. This transparency ensures you make informed decisions within your budget.
Step 6: Building Consent and Contract Signing:
Once final plans and costing are approved, your architect will submit an application for building consent to Auckland Council. This process may involve additional revisions or clarifications based on council regulations. Upon receiving building consent, your renovation company will prepare a detailed contract outlining the entire project scope, timeline, payment schedule, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Ensure all terms are clear and understood before signing.
Step 7: Construction Phase:
Construction commences! Your chosen renovation company will manage the entire process, overseeing sub-contractors, material deliveries, and quality control. Remember, clear communication is crucial. Stay informed about progress, raise any concerns promptly, and ensure the builder adheres to the agreed-upon plans and schedules.
Key Steps:
Foundation and Framing: We’ll lay the foundation and build the framework of your extension.
Structural Work: Complete all structural work, including walls, roofing, and windows.
Internal Work: Install internal elements like plumbing, electrical systems, insulation, and drywall.
Finishing Touches: Add the finishing touches like flooring, painting, and installing fixtures.
Step 8: Inspections and Final Touches:
Throughout construction, council inspectors will visit the site at key stages to ensure compliance with building regulations. Once all aspects comply, a final inspection will grant completion authority. Your renovation company will then complete any final touches, clean up the site, and address any minor snags.
Key Steps:
Progress Inspections: Conduct regular inspections at key stages of construction.
Quality Checks: Perform quality checks to ensure all work is up to standard.
Council Inspections: Arrange for council inspections as required to verify compliance with the building consent.
Step 9: Handover and Warranty:
The culmination of your exciting journey! Upon complete satisfaction, your renovation company will formally hand over the extension to you. This includes providing warranty paperwork for materials and workmanship, final payment receipts, and maintenance guidelines. Take time to familiarize yourself with your new space and celebrate the successful transformation of your home.
Key Steps:
Final Inspection: Conduct a final inspection with your builder to make sure everything is completed to your satisfaction.
Handover: Receive keys and all the relevant documentation, including warranties and manuals.
Defect Period: Be aware of the defect liability period during which any issues can be rectified by the builder.
Step 10: Applying for Code Compliance Certificate (CCC):
The last step is to apply for the Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) from your local council. This certificate confirms that your extension meets all building regulations and standards.
Key Steps:
Complete Application: Submit the CCC application to your local council, including all required documentation and inspection records.
Council Inspection: The council will conduct a final inspection to verify compliance with the building consent.
Receive CCC: Once approved, you’ll receive your Code Compliance Certificate, marking the official completion of your home extension.
Remember, this step-by-step process is a general guide. Specific timelines, procedures, and requirements may vary depending on your project’s complexity and Auckland Council regulations. Always consult with your chosen renovation company and architect for detailed guidance throughout your extension journey.
House Extension Cost Breakdown in Auckland (2024)
Extension Size
Average Cost per sq m
Total Estimated Cost
Across vs Upwards Price Difference
Recommended Contingency (%)
50 sq m
$3,000 – $6,000
$150,000 – $300,000
+20 – 30%
10 – 15%
100 sq m
$2,700 – $5,250
$270,000 – $525,000
+15 – 25%
10 – 15%
150 sq m
$2,400 – $4,800
$360,000 – $720,000
+10 – 20%
10 – 15%
Notes:
Price differences: Adding another level (extending upwards) is generally 10-30% more expensive than extending across on a single level due to additional structural requirements, stairs, and potentially complex roofing modifications.
Contingency: A 10-15% contingency is recommended to cover unforeseen costs like groundworks issues, material price fluctuations, or minor design changes during construction.
Additional Cost Factors:
Materials and finishes: High-end materials like stone or timber will significantly increase the cost compared to basic materials.
Complexity of design: Intricate architectural details or custom-built elements will be more expensive than simple, functional designs.
Permits and fees: Building consent, resource consent, and other fees can add to the overall cost.
Labor costs: Experienced builders may charge more than less experienced ones.
Remember: These are estimated costs and actual prices will vary depending on your specific project requirements and chosen contractors. Always obtain multiple quotes and carefully review the project scope and breakdown of costs before committing.
Try Our House Extension Cost Calculator
The cost of a house extension in Auckland can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the size of the extension, the type of materials used, and any additional features you want to include. Calculator has been updated to reflects prices in the year 2025, estimates generated by the calculator is subject to change. The prices are based on average costings in the Auckland region, price’s may vary in other regions of New Zealand (eg cost of consent).
Discuss your plans with adjoining neighbors and be mindful of potential privacy concerns or light obstruction your extension might cause. As mediation expert Anna Wilson of Auckland Dispute Resolution Centre advises, “Open communication with your neighbors can prevent future conflicts and ensure a smooth building process.”
Underestimating the Permit Process
Don’t assume permits are a formality. Research and understand the required permits early on, and factor in the time and potential costs involved in obtaining them. Architect Lisa Williams reminds us, “Delays due to missing permits can be costly and frustrating. Plan ahead and involve your architect or designer in navigating the permit process.”
Rushing into Contracts
Thoroughly review contracts with your builder before signing. Ensure clear details regarding timelines, budget breakdowns, materials used, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Kevin from Superior Renovations emphasizes, “A well-written contract protects both parties and sets clear expectations for the project.”
Neglecting Energy Efficiency
Prioritize sustainable materials and construction practices. Double-glazed windows, efficient insulation, and solar panels can save you money in the long run and reduce your environmental footprint. Building consultant Peter Jones adds, “Sustainable extensions not only benefit the environment but also increase the value of your home.”
Hypothetical Projects and Outcomes
Project 1: Family Haven (Budget: $150,000 – $200,000):
The Jones family seeks a single-story extension adding a spacious open-plan living area and a dedicated laundry room. This project prioritizes natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, incorporating large windows and sliding doors opening onto a deck. By opting for simple finishes and readily available materials, the Jones keep costs within budget. The outcome: a transformed living space perfect for family gatherings and enjoying the Auckland sunshine.
Project 2: Home Office Sanctuary (Budget: $75,000 – $100,000):
Sarah, a remote worker, desires a quiet, well-lit home office separate from the main house. She opts for a smaller, detached studio extension with soundproofing features and ample natural light. Choosing recycled materials and pre-fabricated elements keeps the costs down. The result: a peaceful haven for focused work with a minimal environmental impact.
Project 3: Luxury Master Suite Retreat (Budget: $250,000 – $300,000):
The Edwards couple dreams of a luxurious master suite extension above their existing garage. This project involves complex roof modifications and bespoke finishes, including a walk-in wardrobe and a spa-like bathroom. Careful planning and collaboration with the architect and builder ensure the extension seamlessly blends with the existing house. The outcome: a private oasis of indulgence offering panoramic views and ultimate relaxation.
Problems and Solutions:
Unexpected Groundwork Issues: During construction, the Jones family encounter unforeseen rocky ground requiring additional excavation and foundation work. To stay within budget, they adapt the design slightly and opt for cost-effective alternatives for finishes.
Permit Delays: Sarah’s detached studio extension requires resource consent due to its proximity to the property line. While delays disrupt the initial timeline, open communication with the council and adjustments to the plans expedite the process.
Cost Overruns: The Edwards couple encounter higher-than-expected material costs due to global supply chain disruptions. To compensate, they adjust some finishes and implement energy-efficient solutions that deliver long-term cost savings.
These hypothetical scenarios illustrate the diverse possibilities and potential challenges of house extensions. By planning meticulously, communicating effectively, and staying flexible, homeowners can navigate the process and successfully achieve their dream extensions.
To Summarise
How much does a house extension cost in Auckland?
Extension costs can vary greatly depending on size, complexity, materials, and chosen contractors. This guide provides estimated cost ranges per square meter, with a 50% increase to reflect market volatility. Expect single-story extensions to be around $2,400 - $4,800 per sqm, and additional levels costing 10-20% more. Remember, it's crucial to obtain detailed quotes and factor in a 10-15% contingency for unforeseen expenses.
Do I need council permission for an extension?
Yes, most house extensions require building consent from Auckland Council. Your architect or renovation company will help guide you through the permit process, which may involve resource consent for larger projects or those impacting neighboring properties.
What's the difference between extending across or upwards?
Adding another level (extending upwards) is generally 10-20% more expensive than extending across on one level. Upwards extensions involve complex structural work, stairs, and potentially challenging roofing modifications. Consider your budget, desired space usage, and existing house characteristics when deciding between these options.
What are some common pitfalls to avoid during an extension project?
Underestimating the permit process, rushing into contracts without clear details, and neglecting energy efficiency are common pitfalls. Communicate openly with neighbors, choose an experienced builder with clear communication, and prioritize sustainability to ensure a smooth and rewarding experience.
How can I manage unexpected costs during my extension?
Include a 10-15% contingency in your budget to cover unforeseen expenses like groundworks issues, material price fluctuations, or minor design changes. Choose reliable suppliers and contractors, discuss potential supply chain risks, and be prepared to adapt slightly if necessary to stay within your budget.
Conclusion:
A house extension is not just an addition to your home; it’s an investment in your lifestyle and well-being. By embracing careful planning, seeking expert guidance, and prioritizing both functionality and sustainability, you can transform your Auckland abode into a space that truly reflects your dreams and enhances your life for years to come. So, embark on this exciting journey with optimism, knowledge, and a collaborative spirit, and witness your vision unfold into a beautiful and enriching reality.
Remember, this is just a guide, and the specific costs, challenges, and outcomes for your extension will vary depending on your unique project and circumstances. Always consult with experienced professionals and gather multiple quotes before making any final decisions. We wish you all the best in your house extension journey!
Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations
Video testimonial by Tatiana Derevianko – Full House Renovation of her Epsom (Auckland) Home completed by Superior Renovations.
“I’m so glad I went for it, I don’t even want to leave my house, I’m going to retire in this place, it’s perfect! On Saturday I had my first visitors and their reaction was amazing! My experience with Superior Renovations is that they delivered on time and they delivered on budget – it couldn’t have been any better.
Last thing I would want is to be stuck in a half done house for Christmas and Superior Renovations did not disappoint, they delivered 1 week before Christmas just as they promised”
The renovation included: ☑️ Removal of Walls and Doors throughout downstairs with added structural steel beams ☑️ Full Kitchen Design + Renovation ☑️ Custom Feature Wall for Fireplace and TV ☑️ Outdoor Renovation/ Seating/ Fencing ☑️ Renovation of the toilet ☑️ Full Interior Painting including balustrades ☑️ New Carpets in Bedrooms ☑️ New Laminate Flooring Downstairs ☑️ Underfloor heating in Kitchen, Dining and Living
Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations
When it comes to home renovations, there is often a focus on updating the interior of the home. However, outdoor landscaping is just as important when it comes to creating a beautiful and functional living space. In this article, we will explore the ways in which outdoor landscaping complements home renovations, and the benefits of creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow in your home. We will also be discussing the various components of outdoor Living, the costs involved and the design process to keep in mind.
Importance of Outdoor Landscaping in Home Renovations
Outdoor landscaping is an integral part of any home renovation project. Not only does it enhance the appearance and value of your home, but it also adds functionality and livability to your outdoor spaces. Landscaping can transform a drab and uninviting yard into a lush and inviting oasis that complements the interior of your home.
Doing research for your Home renovations? Try our Cost Calculators (results within 2 minutes)
One of the key benefits of outdoor landscaping is creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This allows you to maximize the use of your property and create an environment that feels cohesive and connected. By incorporating design elements that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living, you can enhance the overall functionality and livability of your home.
We created a deck that leads out of the interior living space which extends the living space of the client to enjoy their outdoors.
4 Benefits of Outdoor Landscaping in Home Renovations
There are numerous benefits to incorporating outdoor landscaping into your home renovation project.
1. Enhancing Curb Appeal
Outdoor landscaping can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your home. A well-designed yard and outdoor living space can make your home stand out and create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Project Spotlight: This home renovation see below also had landscaping done to include a features a large pool area with custom built benches, Concrete Flooring, trees, plants and pathways. This is a great area for entertaining as well as relaxation. This outdoor area opens up from the interior living areas creating a seamless indoor/outdoor living.
This outdoor landscaping was done as a part of an interior renovation in Epsom, Auckland. Our client loved to entertain her friends and wanted an attractive and welcoming space outdoors where they could relax. We custom built the benches that can be seen which also has storage within it.
As seen in the picture, the benches have storage within them to store all outdoor accessories.
2. Maximizing Living Space
By incorporating outdoor living spaces, such as patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens, you can significantly increase the living space of your home. This allows you to enjoy your property to the fullest and create additional areas for entertaining and relaxation.
The home renovation project below shows that even if you do not have a large space outside your home, you can still create an outdoor living space if designed well. We created a deck all around the house to create outdoor dining space, a hot tub and a barbeque area.
A deck was created around the house to extend the living space for the client.
This side of the deck shows a small lawn and an extended deck for lounging
3. Improving Health and Well-Being
Studies have shown that spending time in nature can have significant benefits for both physical and mental health. Incorporating outdoor spaces into your home renovation project can provide a peaceful retreat from the stresses of daily life and promote relaxation and well-being.
4. Boosting Property Value
Well-designed outdoor spaces can significantly increase the value of your property. Outdoor living spaces, such as decks and patios, are highly sought after by homebuyers and can help you command a higher sale price when it’s time to sell.
When planning your outdoor landscaping, it’s essential to choose the right features that complement your home’s style and function. This may include elements such as:
Hardscaping, such as patios, walkways, and retaining walls
Softscaping, including plants, trees, and shrubs
Water features, such as fountains, ponds, and streams
Outdoor lighting to enhance the ambiance and safety of your outdoor spaces
As with any home renovation project, it’s essential to consider the long-term maintenance and sustainability of your outdoor landscaping. This may include selecting plants and materials that are appropriate for your climate, investing in irrigation systems, and planning for regular maintenance to keep your outdoor spaces looking their best.
What are the most Popular Materials for Decks in NZ?
What is the Cost to Build a Deck in NZ?
FENCES
Types of Popular Fences in NZ?
What is the Cost to Add a Fence in NZ?
DRIVEWAYS
Types of Driveways in NZ?
Concrete Driveways – Advantages and Disadvantages
Gravel Driveways – Advantages and Disadvantages
What is the Cost to Add a Driveway in NZ?
OUTDOOR KITCHENS
What is the cost to add Outdoor Kitchens?
LAWNS
Types of Lawns and their Pros and Cons
What is the Cost to add different types of Grasses for Your Lawn?
Pergolas and Gazebos
If you’re looking to create a stunning outdoor space in New Zealand, a pergola is a great option. It not only adds visual appeal but also provides shade and shelter. However, designing a pergola can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to achieve a good design for a pergola in New Zealand.
Pergolas are a popular outdoor structure in New Zealand that can enhance the beauty of your home and provide a comfortable outdoor space for relaxation or entertaining. When searching for pergola designs in NZ, it’s important to consider the following:
Style of your Pergola
The materials that are used to build your Pergola
The size of your Pergola depending on your reason to build a pergola
Your budget for the renovation
4 Considerations Before Designing a Pergola
Before you begin designing your pergola, there are several considerations you should take into account:
Location
The location of your pergola is crucial to its design. You need to consider the view, accessibility, and any obstacles that may be present. You also need to take into account the direction of the sun and the wind in order to ensure that your pergola provides adequate shade and protection. Louvered pergolas in NZ can provide additional flexibility for shading as they allow for adjustable blades to control the amount of sunlight and ventilation.
Purpose
The purpose of your pergola is also important. Are you building it for aesthetic purposes, or do you need it to provide shade and shelter? Will it be used for outdoor dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing? Depending on your intended use, the design and size of your pergola can vary.
This Pergola that we created was with the purpose of enjoying the weather regarding its conditions. It was not just to provide shade because if it was then we would have created a roof of it with shade and not glass. Hence it is important to consider the reason you are including a Pergola before thinking about the design or the materials for the building a Pergola.
This Pergola we built so our clients could enjoy all kinds of weather and not just to provide shade and hence we used glass roofing for the pergola.
Materials
Choosing the right materials for your pergola is essential. You need to consider the durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal of the materials. Common materials used for pergolas include wood, vinyl, and aluminum. Louvered pergolas can be made from durable materials like powder-coated aluminum or high-grade steel that are resistant to weather conditions and require minimal maintenance.
Budget
Your budget is also a critical consideration. The cost of a pergola can vary widely depending on the size, materials, and accessories you choose. It’s important to set a budget before you begin designing your pergola to ensure that you don’t overspend. By choosing a louvered pergola in NZ, you can have a cost-effective solution that provides a luxurious and stylish outdoor space.
Designing a Pergola in NZ homes
Once you’ve taken into account the above considerations, it’s time to start designing your pergola.
Choosing the Style
There are several styles of pergolas to choose from, including traditional, modern, and rustic. You should choose a style that complements the architecture of your home and the landscape of your property. When looking for pergola designs in NZ, you can choose from a range of styles that suit your taste and budget.
Sizing the Pergola
The size of your pergola will depend on several factors, including the purpose of the pergola and the size of your outdoor space. You should also consider any furniture or accessories you plan to add to the pergola. To determine the size, measure the area where you plan to install the pergola and decide on the appropriate dimensions. A louvered pergola can be customized to fit your specific size requirements.
Adding Accessories
To make your pergola more functional and stylish, you can add accessories such as lighting, fans, and curtains. These accessories not only add to the beauty of your pergola but also provide additional functionality, making it a more versatile outdoor space.
Designing a pergola in New Zealand requires careful consideration of the location, purpose, materials, and budget. By choosing a louvered pergola, you can have a cost-effective and stylish outdoor space that provides shade and protection from the elements. With the right design and maintenance, your pergola can be a beautiful addition to your home and a comfortable outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment.
5 Steps for Designing a High-End Deck, Pergola or Gazebo
The first step in designing a pergola, or gazebo is to assess your needs. Consider how you plan to use the space, the size of your backyard, and your budget. A deck will typically be the most cost-effective option, while a gazebo will be the most expensive due to its fully enclosed structure. A pergola is a great option for those looking for a balance between cost and functionality.
Choose your Materials
The materials you choose for your deck, pergola, or gazebo will have a significant impact on the look and feel of the structure, as well as its durability. In New Zealand, you will want to choose materials that are resistant to the weather and pests. Popular choices for high-end decks, pergolas, and gazebos in NZ include hardwoods like ipe or cedar, which are durable and resistant to rot and decay.
2. Plan Your Layout
The layout of your deck, pergola, or gazebo is crucial to creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor living space. Consider the size and shape of your backyard, as well as the location of your home. You may want to consult with a professional to help you design a layout that maximizes your space and enhances your home’s architectural features. In New Zealand, it is also important to consider factors such as sun exposure and wind direction when planning your layout.
3. Incorporate Unique Features
Adding unique features to your deck, pergola, or gazebo will make your outdoor living space stand out. Consider adding built-in benches, planters, lighting, or even a fire pit. These features will enhance the functionality and beauty of your space while creating a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. In New Zealand, you may also want to consider adding outdoor heaters or shelter to make the space usable year-round.
This Pergola that we built for our client was done more for aesthetics reason as well as to provide some shade from the weather. It extends from the main structure of the house and 2 of them run in parallels to each other. This provides the family with extended living space, and an opportunity to have a nice indoor/outdoor flow for entertainment and relaxation.
This pergola or Louvre was built to provide shade and to utilise the outdoor space for the clients to extend their living space.
4. Choose Your Finishing Touches
The finishing touches you choose for your deck, pergola, or gazebo will tie the space together and make it feel complete. Consider adding outdoor furniture, cushions, and accessories that complement the style and color of your structure. This will create a cohesive and inviting outdoor living space that you will enjoy for years to come. In New Zealand, you may also want to consider adding native plants or other landscaping elements that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
5. Costs
The cost of a high-end deck, pergola, or gazebo in New Zealand will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and materials used. As a rough guide, a basic deck can cost around $1,500 – $3,000 per square meter, while a pergola can cost $3,000 – $6,000 per square meter. A gazebo, which is the most expensive option, can cost $10,000 – $20,000 or more, depending on the size and materials used.
What are the most Popular types of Materials for Decks in NZ?
When it comes to building a deck, choosing the right material is key. Factors to consider include durability, maintenance requirements, aesthetics, and cost. New Zealand has a wide range of climate zones, from subtropical to sub-Antarctic, and the type of material used should be able to withstand the local conditions. In this article, we will discuss the most popular types of deck materials used in NZ and their associated costs.
Timber Decking
Timber decking is one of the most popular materials used for building decks in NZ. It is a natural material that is readily available and comes in a variety of species, such as pine, kwila, and macrocarpa. Timber decking has a warm and natural look that blends well with the surrounding landscape. It is also easy to work with and can be cut and shaped to suit any design.
Pine
Pine is the most commonly used timber for decking in NZ. It is readily available and relatively inexpensive. Pine decking is easy to work with and can be stained or painted to achieve a range of finishes. However, pine is not as durable as some other species and requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and decay.
This timber decking was created for our client in Cockle Bay on the second level of the house that opens up from the master suite. Project Spotlight: See full Project Specifications + Pictures.
Timber deck built on the second level of the house with Pine which leads from the master bedroom suite.
Kwila
Kwila is a hardwood that is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific. It is highly durable and has a rich, reddish-brown color that deepens with age. Kwila is a popular choice for high-end decks, but it is also one of the more expensive options.
This Outdoor renovation is the same as the project above but the difference is that the deck we created in the ground floor was created using Kwila wood. This large deck leads off the main living areas and provides ample space for entertainment and living.
Kwila Deck built in Cockle Bay
Pros of Kwila Decking
Durability: Kwila decking is a dense and durable hardwood that is resistant to rot and insect damage. It has a high natural oil content, which makes it highly resistant to moisture and decay.
Aesthetics: Kwila decking has a beautiful reddish-brown color that gives it a natural and warm appearance. It can also be stained or oiled to achieve different colors and finishes.
Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, Kwila decking can last for decades, making it a good long-term investment for your outdoor living space.
Sustainability: Kwila decking is harvested from sustainably managed forests, which makes it an eco-friendly choice for those who are concerned about the environment.
Project Spotlight: This home renovation was an extensive one where we renovated the interiors as well as the exterior of the home. The landscaping we did outdoors included a large deck made from Kwila wood which leads down as steps to the small lawn area below. We also created decking on different levels on the sides of the home to create more cozy areas for the family to share.
This landscaping project involved creating a large Kwila Deck around the house with the front section going down in stairs leading to a small lawn area that was fenced with aluminium fencing providing spectacular views of the Mellon’s Bay in Auckland
Cons of Kwila Decking
Cost: Kwila decking is one of the most expensive decking materials available in NZ, which may make it less accessible to those on a tight budget.
Maintenance: Kwila decking requires regular staining and sealing to maintain its appearance and durability. Failure to do so can result in warping, splitting, and other issues.
Availability: While Kwila decking is a popular decking material, it may not be readily available in all areas. This can make it difficult to source and may result in higher costs.
Safety: Kwila decking can become very hot in direct sunlight, which can make it uncomfortable to walk on in bare feet. It is recommended to use a heat-reflective coating to mitigate this issue.
Overall, Kwila decking is a high-quality and attractive option for outdoor decking. While it may come with a higher price tag and maintenance requirements, it offers excellent durability and longevity that can make it a good investment in the long run. As with any decking material, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
This elevation of the deck shows a beautiful Kwila Deck which contrasts beautifully with the off white walls, and columns of the house.
Macrocarpa
Macrocarpa is a softwood that is native to New Zealand. It has a warm, honey-brown color and a distinctive grain pattern. Macrocarpa is a durable and stable timber that is well-suited for outdoor use. It is also one of the more affordable options, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is a relatively new material that has gained popularity in recent years. It is made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic, which gives it the look and feel of real wood while providing added durability and resistance to the elements. Composite decking comes in a variety of colors and textures, and it requires very little maintenance.
PVC Decking
PVC decking is a synthetic material that is made from 100% plastic. It is highly resistant to moisture, rot, and insects, making it an ideal choice for coastal or humid areas. PVC decking comes in a variety of colors and patterns and requires very little maintenance. However, it is one of the more expensive options.
Aluminium Decking
Aluminium decking is a lightweight and durable option that is ideal for areas with high winds or heavy rainfall. It is also highly resistant to fire and insects, making it a safe and low-maintenance option. Aluminium decking comes in a variety of colors and finishes, but it is one of the more expensive options.
What Are the Costs of Different Types of Deck Materials?
The cost of building a deck can vary widely depending on the type of material used, the size and complexity of the deck, and other factors such as site preparation and labor costs. Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with the different types of deck materials:
Pine decking: $200-$400 per square meter
Kwila decking: $500-$800 per square meter
Macrocarpa decking: $300-$500 per square meter
Composite decking: $300-$700 per square meter
PVC decking: $500-$1000 per square meter
Aluminium decking: $600-$1000 per square meter
It is important to note that these are ballpark figures and the actual cost may vary depending on various factors such as the complexity of the design, location, and quality of the material used.
Building a deck is a great way to enhance your outdoor living space and add value to your home. There are a variety of materials to choose from, each with its own advantages and costs. When deciding on a decking material, it is important to consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, aesthetics, and cost. The most popular decking materials in NZ include timber, composite, PVC, and aluminium. By weighing the pros and cons of each material, you can choose the best one for your needs and budget.
Fencing in NZ – What is the cost to add a Fence?
Are you planning to put up a fence around your property in New Zealand? While fencing can enhance the security, privacy, and aesthetic appeal of your home or business, it’s essential to understand the different types and styles of fencing available in the market and their corresponding cost of installation per metre in NZ.
In this article, we’ll discuss the cost of fencing per metre NZ, cost of fencing NZ, types of fencing NZ, and fencing styles NZ. Whether you’re looking to build a traditional picket fence, a modern glass fence, or a sturdy steel fence, you’ll find all the information you need in this comprehensive guide.
Types of Fencing NZ
Before we dive into the cost of fencing per metre NZ, let’s look at the different types of fencing available in the NZ market:
Timber Fencing
Timber fencing is a classic and affordable option for both residential and commercial properties. Timber fences come in various styles, including picket fences, paling fences, and ranch-style fences. Timber fences offer natural beauty, durability, and noise reduction, making them a popular choice among homeowners in NZ.
Project Spotlight: We created many landscaping areas for this home renovation to cater to the different needs of various family members in the household. The vegetable garden below was created so our client could grow fresh chilis. The vegetable garden has Timber fencing behind it as well as a retaining fencing. The vegetable garden runs around the perimeter of a concrete patio.
The vegetable garden surrounds the concrete patio with Timber fencing throughout.
Steel Fencing
Steel fencing is a sturdy and long-lasting option for properties that require high-security fencing. Steel fences come in different designs, such as vertical bars, mesh, and panel fencing, and offer excellent resistance against harsh weather conditions, pests, and intruders. Steel fencing requires minimal maintenance and can last for decades with proper care.
Alumininium Fencing in Mellons Bay which fences off the property from the cliff below.
Glass Fencing
Glass fencing is a modern and stylish option for properties that want to showcase their views or landscaping. Glass fences come in frameless or semi-frameless designs and offer an unobstructed view of the surrounding area. Glass fences are made of tempered glass that is durable and safe, making them ideal for pool areas and balconies. Glass fences require periodic cleaning to maintain their clarity and beauty.
Masonry Fencing
Masonry fencing is a high-end option for properties that require maximum privacy and noise reduction. Masonry fences are made of bricks, stones, or concrete and come in different styles, such as stacked stone, brick and iron, and stucco. Masonry fences offer exceptional durability and fire resistance, making them a popular choice among luxury homes and commercial buildings.
Fencing Styles NZ
Now that you understand the different types of fencing available let’s look at the popular fencing styles in NZ:
Picket Fencing
Picket fencing is a classic and charming style that complements any home style. Picket fences are made of timber or vinyl and come in different heights, shapes, and spacing. Picket fences offer excellent curb appeal, security, and noise reduction, making them a popular choice among residential properties.
Colorbond Fencing
Colorbond fencing is a modern and sleek style that offers excellent privacy and security. Colorbond fences are made of steel and come in various colours and designs. Colorbond fences are durable, weather-resistant, and require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal choice for busy homeowners.
Chain Link Fencing
Chain link fencing is a cost-effective and versatile style that offers excellent visibility and security. Chain link fences are made of steel wire mesh and come in different heights and gauges. Chain link fences are easy to install, require minimal maintenance, and offer a long-lasting solution for both residential and commercial properties.
Glass Balustrades
Glass balustrades are a modern and elegant style that offers an unobstructed view and safety around balconies, decks, and pool areas.
Project Spotlight: The home seen below is a home that we are currently carrying out an Interior and Exterior Home renovation. The glass balustrades seen below are built throughout the property to create different sections within the outdoor landscaping. The Glass fencing divides the areas successfully without disrupting the continuity of the landscaping.
When there is a large outdoor space, it is often divided into sections which are used for different purposes instead of just having a large expanse without dividers. Using glass as a material still makes the space look impressive and large.
Cost of Fencing NZ
Timber Fencing in NZ
The cost of timber fencing per metre in NZ varies depending on the type of timber, height, and design. On average, expect to pay around:
$75-$120 per metre for a standard 1.8-metre-high paling fence
$120-$150 per metre for a 1.8-metre-high timber picket fence
$180-$200 per metre for a 1.8-metre-high ranch-style fence
Steel Fencing in NZ
The cost of steel fencing per metre in NZ depends on the type of steel, height, and design. On average, expect to pay around:
$220-$280 per metre for a 1.8-metre-high Colorbond fence
$280-$350 per metre for a 1.8-metre-high steel vertical bar fence
$350-$450 per metre for a 1.8-metre-high steel mesh fence
Glass Fencing in NZ
The cost of glass fencing per metre in NZ depends on the type of glass, height, and design. On average, expect to pay around:
$600-$800 per metre for a frameless glass fence
$400-$600 per metre for a semi-frameless glass fence
Masonry Fencing in NZ
The cost of masonry fencing per metre in NZ varies depending on the type of material, height, and design. On average, expect to pay around:
$500-$700 per metre for a stacked stone fence
$700-$900 per metre for a brick and iron fence
$900-$1200 per metre for a stucco fence
Cost of Fencing per Metre NZ
The cost of fencing per metre in NZ varies depending on the type of fencing, height, and design. On average, expect to pay:
$75-$120 per metre for a standard timber paling fence
$220-$280 per metre for a Colorbond fence
$600-$800 per metre for a frameless glass fence
$500-$700 per metre for a stacked stone fence
Types of Driveways and – How much do Driveways Cost?
A driveway is a private road for vehicles that connects a property to the main road. The type of driveway you choose can significantly affect the overall appearance of your property, as well as its functionality. There are several factors to consider when choosing a driveway, including the type of material, maintenance requirements, and cost.
Types of Driveways
Asphalt Driveways
Asphalt driveways are a popular choice in NZ due to their affordability and durability. They are made by mixing asphalt cement and aggregate, then laying the mixture and compacting it. Asphalt driveways are easy to maintain, repair, and can last up to 30 years with proper care.
Concrete Driveways
Concrete driveways are another popular option in NZ. They are made by pouring a mixture of cement, water, and aggregate onto a prepared surface, then smoothing and finishing it. Concrete driveways are long-lasting and can withstand heavy traffic, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.
Newly laid Concrete Driveway in this extensive Landscaping project in West Auckland.
Gravel Driveways
Gravel driveways are a cost-effective option for homeowners on a budget. They are made by spreading gravel over a prepared surface, then compacting it to create a stable base. Gravel driveways are easy to install, but they require regular maintenance to keep the surface level and prevent erosion.
Paver Driveways
Paver driveways are a stylish and durable option for homeowners who want to add a unique touch to their property. They are made by laying interlocking concrete or brick pavers over a prepared surface, then filling the gaps with sand. Paver driveways are easy to maintain and can last up to 20 years with proper care.
Paver Driveway was built in this home renovation in Epsom
Factors Affecting the Cost of Driveways
The cost of a driveway can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
Type of material
Size of the driveway
Complexity of the design
Labour costs
Location of the property
Cost of Driveways in NZ
Asphalt Driveway Cost
The cost of an asphalt driveway in NZ can range from $50 to $100 per square meter, depending on the size and complexity of the design.
Concrete Driveway Cost
The cost of a concrete driveway in NZ can range from $75 to $150 per square meter, depending on the size and complexity of the design.
Gravel Driveway Cost
The cost of a gravel driveway in NZ can range from $20 to $60 per square meter, depending on the size and thickness of the gravel.
Paver Driveway Cost
The cost of a paver driveway in NZ can range from $100 to $200 per square meter, depending on the type of paver and the complexity
Project Spotlight: We mostly renovated the interiors of this home but this home is a great example of good landscaping design. In this particular picture you can see a paved driveway that is structured to built in a way that it adds to the overall aesthetic of the home.
When it comes to choosing the material for your driveway, concrete is a popular option. Concrete driveways offer a range of benefits, including durability, low maintenance, and versatility in design. However, there are also some drawbacks to using concrete. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of concrete driveways, as well as the costs associated with them.
4 Advantages of Concrete Driveways
Durability
One of the biggest advantages of concrete driveways is their durability. Concrete is a very strong and long-lasting material, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like driveways. It can withstand heavy loads, including vehicles, without cracking or breaking.
Low Maintenance
Concrete driveways are also very low maintenance. They don’t require regular sealing or resurfacing like other materials such as asphalt. This can save homeowners time and money in the long run.
Versatility in Design
Concrete driveways come in a range of designs, from stamped and colored to exposed aggregate. This allows homeowners to choose a design that complements the style of their home and personal taste.
Increases Property Value
Installing a concrete driveway can also increase the value of your property. Concrete is a desirable material that is often sought after by potential homebuyers.
3 Disadvantages of Concrete Driveways
Cracks and Stains
One of the biggest drawbacks of concrete driveways is that they can crack over time. This is especially true in areas with extreme temperature changes. Additionally, concrete driveways can be prone to stains from oil and other substances, which can be difficult to remove.
Limited Color Options
While concrete driveways come in a range of designs, color options are somewhat limited. Concrete is typically gray, and while it can be colored, the options are not as extensive as other materials like pavers.
Cost
One of the biggest disadvantages of concrete driveways is the cost. Concrete is more expensive than other materials like asphalt and gravel. However, the durability and low maintenance costs can make up for the initial expense in the long run.
Factors Affecting Cost
The cost of a concrete driveway can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the driveway, the design, and the location. Additional factors that can affect the cost include the preparation of the site, excavation, and labor costs.
Average Cost per Square Foot
On average, the cost of a concrete driveway is between $4 and $15 per square foot. This means that for a 1,000 square foot driveway, homeowners can expect to pay between $4,000 and $15,000.
Concrete driveways are a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable and long-lasting option. While they have some drawbacks, such as the potential for cracking and limited color options, the benefits of concrete driveways, including their durability and low maintenance, make them a worthwhile investment. Additionally, while the cost of a concrete driveway may be higher than other materials like asphalt, the long-term savings can make up for the initial expense.
Project Spotlight: The project below was mentioned earlier in this article, this picture below shows the paved concrete driveway, and a fenced lawn on the side of the home.
Concrete Driveway and a fenced side garden in this landscaping project in West Harbour, Auckland
Gravel Driveway
Gravel driveways are a popular choice for homeowners because they are durable, cost-effective, and can complement any home’s style. However, the cost and installation process can be confusing, and there are several factors to consider when choosing the right gravel for your driveway. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about gravel driveway cost and installation.
Types of Gravel
Before we dive into the cost and installation, let’s first understand the different types of gravel available for driveways. The most common types are:
Crushed Stone: This is a versatile and durable option that can be used for any driveway size. It comes in different sizes and colors, making it easy to customize the look of your driveway.
Pea Gravel: This is a smaller, rounded option that can be used for decorative purposes or as a top layer for a larger stone. It is not as durable as crushed stone and may require more maintenance over time.
River Rock: This is a larger, smooth option that is often used for decorative purposes. It can be more expensive than crushed stone or pea gravel and may not be suitable for high-traffic areas.
Factors Affecting Gravel Driveway Cost
The cost of installing a gravel driveway can vary depending on several factors, such as:
Size: The larger the driveway, the more material and labor will be required, which will increase the cost.
Type of Gravel: As mentioned above, different types of gravel have varying costs.
Depth: The deeper the gravel, the more material will be required, which will increase the cost.
Location: The cost of labor and materials can vary depending on your location.
Gravel Driveway Installation Process
The installation process for a gravel driveway involves several steps, such as:
Excavation: The area where the driveway will be installed is excavated to the desired depth.
Grading: The area is graded to ensure proper drainage and a level surface.
Base Layer: A base layer of crushed stone is added and compacted to provide a stable foundation for the driveway.
Gravel Layer: The chosen type of gravel is added and compacted to the desired depth.
Edging: Edging is added to keep the gravel contained and prevent it from spreading.
Cost of Gravel Driveway Installation
The cost of installing a gravel driveway can range from $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot, depending on the factors mentioned above. For example, a 100-foot driveway with a depth of 3 inches would require approximately 14 tons of gravel and cost between $2,100 and $5,600.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
While it may be tempting to save money by installing a gravel driveway yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional for several reasons:
Experience: A professional will have the experience and knowledge necessary to ensure proper installation and avoid costly mistakes.
Equipment: Installing a gravel driveway requires heavy equipment that may not be readily available to homeowners.
Warranty: Many professionals offer a warranty on their work, providing peace of mind and protection against any issues that may arise.
In conclusion, a gravel driveway can be a cost-effective and attractive option for homeowners. By understanding the types of gravel available, the factors that affect cost, and the installation process, you can make an informed decision on whether a gravel driveway is right for you. If you do decide to install a gravel driveway, it is recommended to hire a professional for a stress-free and efficient installation process.
Outdoor Kitchens in NZ
Outdoor kitchens have become a popular addition to many homes in New Zealand. These outdoor kitchens are typically built in the backyard or on the patio and feature various cooking appliances such as grills, cooktops, sinks, and refrigerators. They can be as simple or elaborate as the homeowner desires, depending on their budget and needs.
The cost of building an outdoor kitchen can vary greatly depending on the size, design, and materials used. A basic outdoor kitchen with a grill, countertop, and sink can cost around $5,000 to $10,000. However, for a more elaborate outdoor kitchen with high-end appliances and custom-built features, the cost can easily exceed $20,000 or more.
Project Spotlight: This renovation in Redvale shows how a well designed landscaping or outdoor renovation can improve your quality of life and extend the livable space of your home. The home below shows an area divided into three parts with one for outdoor cooking, dining area and a lounging area. In the background you can see lush lawn laid out providing a beautiful backdrop. See Full project specifications + Pictures
Some of the factors that can influence the cost of an outdoor kitchen include:
Size and complexity of the design
Materials used for construction (e.g. stone, brick, concrete)
Appliances and features included (e.g. grill, sink, refrigerator, pizza oven, storage)
How much does it Cost to Create a Lawn in your home?
The cost of laying different types of grass in NZ for residential homes can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of grass, the size of the area to be covered, and the amount of preparation work required. Here is a breakdown of the costs for some popular types of grass:
1. Seed grass
Seed grass is the most affordable option for residential homes, with an average cost of $0.30 to $0.70 per square foot. However, it requires more time and maintenance to establish a lush and healthy lawn. Seed grass may also be less resistant to pests and disease compared to other types of grass.
A simple lawn for our clients to spend some time amongst nature
2. Sod grass
Sod grass is a more expensive option compared to seed grass, with an average cost of $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot. However, it provides an instant lawn and requires less time and effort to establish. Sod grass is also more resistant to pests and disease compared to seed grass.
3. Artificial Grass
Artificial grass is a low-maintenance and long-lasting option that can mimic the look and feel of natural grass. The cost of artificial grass can range from $5.00 to $15.00 per square foot, depending on the quality and type of grass. While it may have a higher upfront cost, it can save on maintenance costs and water bills in the long run.
Landscaping around the house with quaint pathways and surrounding greenery in Epsom, Auckland
This lawn can be seen in one of the houses we are currently renovating in Remuera
4. Hydroseed grass
Hydroseed grass is a mixture of grass seed, water, and other additives that are sprayed onto the ground to establish a lawn. It is a more affordable option compared to sod grass, with an average cost of $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot. Hydroseed grass requires less time and effort to establish than seed grass, but may require more maintenance in the long run.
It’s important to note that the above costs are just estimates and may vary depending on your specific location, the quality of materials used, and other factors.
We created pathways throughout the outdoor landscape to connect different parts of the landscaping with each other. These outdoor tiles lay in a bed of gravel and are fenced of with Timber fencing.
We created pathways around the house to get from one section of the exterior to another. This pathway leads from the front garden to the back of the house where we created a vegetable garden and patio
It is recommended to consult with a professional landscaper to get a more accurate quote for your specific needs and budget.In conclusion, the cost of laying different types of grass in NZ for residential homes can vary widely depending on the type of grass, the size of the area to be covered, and other factors. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Why Outdoor Lighting is Crucial for Home Renovation in New Zealand
While indoor lighting is essential, outdoor lighting is equally crucial for creating a beautiful and safe environment for you and your family. From enhancing curb appeal to increasing safety, there are many reasons why outdoor lighting should be an integral part of your home renovation plans. In this article, we will explore why outdoor lighting is important when creating and renovating your outdoor space in New Zealand.
1. Increases Safety
Outdoor lighting provides safety and security to your home by illuminating the outdoor spaces, making it more difficult for burglars and intruders to enter your property unnoticed. Lighting up the pathways, driveway, and entrances with motion-activated lights or spotlights will keep your home safer and deter potential criminals.
2. Enhances Curb Appeal
Outdoor lighting can add to the beauty and charm of your home, making it stand out and adding to its curb appeal. Proper lighting enhances the beauty of your garden, highlighting its unique features such as trees, flowers, and hedges. It can also add a dramatic effect to your home’s architecture, making it look more attractive at night.
3. Increases Functionality
Outdoor lighting can also increase the functionality of your outdoor living spaces. It allows you to utilize the outdoor space even after the sun goes down. You can entertain guests, read a book, or just relax outside in the evenings without worrying about the lack of light.
4. Adds Value to Your Home
Adding outdoor lighting to your home can increase its value. Potential buyers are attracted to homes that have beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. Outdoor lighting can enhance the overall appeal of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers and increasing its resale value.
5. Saves Energy and Money
Installing energy-efficient outdoor lighting can help you save money on electricity bills. LED lights are a great option as they are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. Also, installing solar-powered lights can help you save even more money in the long run.
6. Provides Ambiance
Outdoor lighting can create a cozy and inviting ambiance for your outdoor space. It can transform your backyard into an intimate setting where you can relax and spend quality time with your loved ones. You can choose from a variety of outdoor lighting options, such as string lights, lanterns, and accent lights, to create the perfect ambiance for your outdoor space.
7. Improves Navigation
Outdoor lighting provides better visibility and improves navigation around your outdoor space. It can be challenging to navigate around your yard at night, especially if you have uneven terrain or steps. Installing outdoor lighting ensures that you and your guests can move around safely, avoiding any tripping hazards.
8. Highlights Landscape Features
Outdoor lighting can highlight the unique features of your landscape, such as fountains, sculptures, and water features. It creates a beautiful and dramatic effect, drawing attention to the distinctive elements of your outdoor space.
9. Adds Personalization
Outdoor lighting can help you personalize your outdoor space according to your preferences. You can choose the type of lighting that best suits your needs and add a personal touch to your outdoor living areas. It allows you to create a space that reflects your personality and style.
10. Complements Architecture
Outdoor lighting can complement the architectural design of your home, enhancing its beauty and appeal. It can also help balance the visual weight of your home, highlighting certain areas and creating a harmonious look.In conclusion, outdoor lighting is an essential element to consider when renovating your outdoor space in New Zealand. It not only increases safety and security but also enhances the overall beauty, functionality, and value of
9 Steps to create a functional design in terms of lighting for your outdoor landscaping
Creating a functional design for your outdoor lighting can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to landscaping and living areas in NZ homes. However, with careful planning and consideration, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that meets your specific needs. In this article, we will discuss some tips for creating a functional lighting design for your outdoor landscaping and living in NZ homes.
1. Identify the Purpose of Your Outdoor Space
Before you start designing your outdoor lighting, it’s essential to identify the purpose of your outdoor space. Do you want to create an area for entertainment, relaxation, or a play area for your kids? Identifying the purpose of your outdoor space will help you determine the type of lighting that you need and where it should be placed.
2. Determine the Type of Lighting
There are various types of outdoor lighting available, and each serves a different purpose. Some of the most common types of outdoor lighting include floodlights, accent lights, path lights, and decorative lights. Floodlights are perfect for illuminating large areas, while accent lights are ideal for highlighting specific features such as trees or sculptures. Path lights are great for illuminating walkways, and decorative lights add a touch of charm and personality to your outdoor space.
3. Consider the Landscape Features
It’s essential to consider the landscape features of your outdoor space when designing your lighting. Consider the location of trees, shrubs, and other landscape features that you want to highlight. If you have a water feature, such as a pond or waterfall, you can use underwater lights to create a beautiful and dramatic effect.
4. Plan the Lighting Layout
Once you have identified the purpose of your outdoor space, determined the type of lighting, and considered the landscape features, you can start planning the lighting layout. Start by creating a sketch of your outdoor space and indicate where you want to place the lights. Consider the height and angle of each light to ensure that they illuminate the desired areas effectively.
5. Use Layers of Lighting
Using layers of lighting can help create a functional and visually appealing outdoor space. Layering your lighting means using a combination of different types of lights at different heights and angles. For example, you can use path lights to illuminate walkways, floodlights to light up large areas, and accent lights to highlight landscape features. By using layers of lighting, you can create a more dynamic and functional outdoor space.
6. Choose Energy-Efficient Lighting
Choosing energy-efficient lighting is not only better for the environment but can also save you money in the long run. LED lights are a great option as they are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. Solar-powered lights are also an excellent option as they use renewable energy and do not require any wiring.In conclusion, creating a functional lighting design for your outdoor landscaping and living in NZ homes requires careful planning and consideration. By identifying the purpose of your outdoor space, determining the type of lighting, considering the landscape features, planning the lighting layout, using layers of lighting, and choosing energy-efficient lighting, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that meets your specific needs.
7. Focus on Safety
When designing your outdoor lighting, safety should be a top priority. Make sure that your lighting layout illuminates all pathways, steps, and entrances to your home to prevent accidents. Also, consider installing motion-activated lights for added security.
8. Use Timers and Smart Lighting
Using timers and smart lighting can make your outdoor space more functional and convenient. Timers can be set to turn on and off your lights automatically, which is useful for security and convenience. Smart lighting, on the other hand, can be controlled remotely through a mobile device, allowing you to turn your lights on and off from anywhere.
9. Consider the Aesthetics
The aesthetics of your outdoor lighting are just as important as its functionality. Choose lights that complement the design and style of your home and outdoor space. Consider the color, shape, and materials of your lights to ensure that they blend well with the overall aesthetic of your outdoor area.
What is a louvered pergola, and how does it differ from a traditional pergola?
A louvered pergola is a pergola with adjustable louvers that allow for flexible shading and ventilation. Unlike a traditional pergola, a louvered pergola can be adjusted to provide shade or sunlight as needed.
What are the benefits of choosing a louvered pergola over a traditional pergola?
A louvered pergola offers greater flexibility for shading and ventilation, making it a more versatile outdoor space. It also requires minimal maintenance and is made from durable materials that can withstand weather conditions.
How much does it cost to build a pergola in New Zealand?
The cost of building a pergola in New Zealand varies depending on the size, materials, and accessories you choose. A louvered pergola can be a cost-effective solution that provides a luxurious and stylish outdoor space.
Can I install a louvered pergola myself, or do I need to hire a professional?
You can install a louvered pergola yourself if you're comfortable with DIY building. However, if you're not confident in your skills, it's best to hire a professional builder to ensure that your pergola is safe and sturdy.
How do I maintain and care for my pergola?
To ensure that your pergola lasts for years to come, you should perform regular maintenance and care, including cleaning the pergola, inspecting for damage, and repairing any issues promptly. A louvered pergola requires minimal maintenance, as the materials used are durable and resistant to weather conditions.
How high can a fence be in NZ?
The maximum height for a fence in a residential area is 2.5 metres, but it may vary depending on the local council's regulations.
Do I need a building consent for a fence in NZ?
You may need a building consent for a fence that is over 2 metres high or if it is on a retaining wall.
How long does it take to install a fence in NZ?
The time it takes to install a fence in NZ varies depending on the size, type, and complexity of the fence. On average, expect to wait 1-3 weeks for the installation to be completed.
Can I install a fence myself in NZ?
Yes, you can install a fence yourself in NZ, but you may need to obtain a building consent and follow the local council's regulations
How do I maintain my fence in NZ?
The maintenance requirements for your fence in NZ depend on the type of fencing. Generally, you should clean your fence periodically, repair any damages, and repaint or re-stain as needed
How do I choose the right fencing for my property in NZ?
When choosing the right fencing for your property in NZ, consider factors such as security, privacy, aesthetic appeal, maintenance requirements, and budget.
How long does a concrete driveway last?
Concrete driveways can last up to 30 years or more with proper maintenance and care
Can I add color to my concrete driveway?
Yes, it is possible to add color to a concrete driveway using a range of methods, including integral color, acid staining, and dyes
How can I prevent my concrete driveway from cracking?
To prevent cracking, it's important to ensure that the site is properly prepared before pouring the concrete. Additionally, regular sealing and maintenance can help to prevent cracks from forming.
How long does it take to install a concrete driveway?
The installation time for a concrete driveway can vary depending on the size of the driveway and the weather conditions. On average, it can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more to install a concrete driveway.
Can I install a concrete driveway myself?
While it is possible to install a concrete driveway yourself, it's important to have the proper knowledge, tools, and experience to do so. It's often best to hire a professional contractor to ensure that the driveway is installed properly.
What are some popular outdoor features to include in home renovations?
Popular outdoor features include patios, decks, outdoor kitchens, water features, and outdoor lighting.
How can outdoor landscaping improve my health and well-being?
Spending time in nature has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reduced stress and improved mood.
How can I ensure that my outdoor landscaping is sustainable?
Work with a landscape designer to select plants and materials that are appropriate for your climate and plan for regular maintenance and irrigation to reduce water waste.
How can outdoor landscaping increase the value of my property?
Well-designed outdoor living spaces are highly sought after by homebuyers and can help you command a higher sale price when it's time to sell
Should I work with a professional for my outdoor landscaping project?
Working with a professional can help ensure that your outdoor spaces are both beautiful and functional, while also saving you time and money in the long run.
Which is the most affordable decking material?
Pine and Macrocarpa are the most affordable decking materials in NZ.
Which decking material is the most durable?
PVC and Aluminium decking are the most durable decking materials.
Is composite decking better than timber decking?
Composite decking has several advantages over timber decking, including lower maintenance requirements and increased durability.
What is the best decking material for coastal areas?
PVC and Aluminium decking are highly resistant to moisture and insects, making them ideal for coastal areas.
Can I install a deck myself?
Yes, it is possible to install a deck yourself if you have the necessary skills and tools. However, it is recommended to hire a professional to ensure that the deck is installed correctly and safely.
How much does it cost to maintain a deck?
The cost of maintaining a deck can vary depending on the type of material used and the level of maintenance required. Timber decking requires regular staining and sealing to prevent rot and decay, while composite and PVC decking require minimal maintenance.
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The exterior curb of any home depicts the unique aesthetic taste of the residents. Nowadays, instead of having a backyard, people are more into having nice decks and patios.So are you planning on building a new deck? Are you searching for the price estimate to evaluate how much does it cost you to hire deck builder Auckland based?
Well, the team of Superior Renovations has come up with 5 significant factors that impact a deck building project in Auckland.
RULES & REGULATIONS FOR DECK BUILDING
If you are planning of having a balcony or a deck about 1.5 meters above the ground, you will need the permission. The rules and regulations about deck building are very strict, and one has to consider them before taking on any deck building endeavour.
The essential matter in deck building is the timber decay issue. While building your new deck, you have to design and build it with great care to avoid water trapping and timber decay. Mostly, water leaks through the cladding and thus causes the early corrosion or decay of timber. So proper maintenance is essential if you are thinking about having your deck above the ground.
Here are some of the guidelines
If your deck is up to 1.5 meters in height from the ground, you don’t need any kind of consent for its build-up process. However, if you are building a deck more than 1.5 meters above, you require permission.
Any fence which is 1 meter above the ground and possesses the risk of falling requires fence or barrier, so you will require resource permission for that too.
If you are thinking about having attached decking, Auckland Building Department recommends a gap of 12mm behind the ribbon plate to avoid moisture retention and mildew development.
Along with the ones mentioned above, the deck-building also requires to meet other structural and building requirements.
What the law says
Subject to section 42A of the Building Act, Schedule 1 exempts the following from a building consent:
Building work in connection with a deck, platform, bridge, boardwalk, or the like from which it is not possible to fall more than 1.5 metres even if it collapses. (https://building.govt.nz, 2019)
If you plan to build a deck that is up to 1.5m high, you don’t need a building consent but you may still need a resource consent, depending on the rules in the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan. If your deck is more than 1m high, it must have a handrail. (https://aucklandcouncil.govt.nz, 2019)
In New Zealand, whether you need consent to extend your deck will depend on the specific circumstances of your property and the proposed deck extension.
If the deck extension will be less than 1.5 meters above ground level, and the deck is not going to be attached to a house or building, it is likely that you will not need consent to build it. However, if the deck is going to be attached to a house or building, or the extension will be more than 1.5 meters above ground level, you will likely need to get a building consent from your local council.
Additionally, you may need to comply with local zoning regulations, and restrictions regarding the placement of the deck, and the materials used. It is best to check with your local council for specific requirements and regulations before proceeding with any deck extension. It’s always advisable to seek advice from a building professional and obtain necessary consents before extending the deck.
HOW MUCH WILL MY DECK COST?
How much I need to spend on building a deck? Probably one of the most common questions when it comes to deck building. However, the cost of any deck build-up process depends entirely on the design and structural complexities it involves.
Although the decking based services vary when it comes to pricing particularly in Auckland, the standard cost estimate for a 1-meter high deck is as follows:
For a 90 mm wide pine decking, you might get charged up to $470+ per square metre. However, the other factors that affect the cost of deck building include:
Site condition
Soil type
Deck’s height
Accessories required
Other costs including permits, demolition, seating, cladding and stairs building.
CAN YOU REMOVE MY OLD DECKING AND RELAY NEW DECKING?
The decks are made of wood, and they have a specific lifespan. Although you can enhance their lifespan with proper maintenance and care. But once they started rotting, you would have to replace the whole structure.
If you are worrying about whether your deck needs replacement or not just check out the following signs or symptoms.
Check for any decay or mould development:
The first step is to check for any rotting or decay in the deck area as well as in the stairs, fencing or any other part of the deck. You can use a screwdriver to check the condition of the wood. If the screwdriver penetrates the wood easily, then it is time to get a new deck.
Check for loose parts:
Check the entire deck for the loose parts and to undergo inspection regarding the damage.
If your deck has completed its lifespan, then make no further delays and ask a professional deck builders Auckland based to build a new deck for you.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PINE AND KWILA DECKING?
The decks could be of any shape, size or material, but the two most common types of the deck are softwood and hardwood.
Pinewood (softwood):
A highly reliable and easily available decking wood option, pine offers the decks more longevity. This pinewood is the most commonly used decking material. However, pine wood contains chemical preservatives and can be easily bent and wraps, thus causing serious health and construction issues.
Kwila (hardwood):
Kwila wood is known for its durability and great looks. Due to its durability, it has been the primary choice for decks in Auckland.
Kwila, also known as Merbau, is a durable and strong wood that is commonly used for decking. However, it should be noted that Kwila is a tropical hardwood that is imported, which may have negative environmental impacts. It is also important to ensure that the Kwila is legally and sustainably sourced. Additionally, Kwila is naturally resistant to decay and insects, but it can still be affected by rot if not properly sealed and maintained. Regular cleaning, staining, and sealing will help prolong the life of a Kwila deck. It is also important to note that Kwila is a dense hardwood which may be harder to work with than other woods, it is also known to cause allergic reactions in some people.
DO I ENGAGE A BUILDER AND/OR PROJECT MANAGER?
If you are thinking of having a deck, then opt for a professional deck building service provider. If you are confused about whether or not hire a project manager for a decking project, then here are some of the perks associated with hiring professionals:
Quality work with extreme professionalism
Schedule tracking for completion of the project on time
The budget and cost estimates will be accurate
The project will be built according to construction guideline and codes
Little to no conflict regarding ideas and material requirements.
THINKING OF BUILDING THE DECK YOURSELF?
Materials required for deck building.
Here are the few materials that you might require for building a deck from scratch:
5×4-inch decking lumber
Fiberboard pier form
2×8 pressure-treated lumber for the joists
2×10 pressure-treated lumber for the ledger, beams and rim joists
Concrete
Plastic footing form
Polyurethane marine sealant
Ledger fasteners lag screws and/or carriage bolts
Post bases
Face-mounted joist hangers
Siliconized acrylic caulk
Masonry expansion bolts to fasten post bases to concrete piers
Metal flashing
Construction adhesive
8d galvanized or stainless steel finish nails
6d, 12d, and 16d galvanized or stainless steel common nails
Self-adhering waterproof membrane
5/8-inch roofing nails
Concealed-flange and face-mounted double joist hangers and hanger nails.
Tools needed for building a simple deck
For the construction of the durable deck, you will require the following mentioned below tools including:
Hammer drill
Masonry bit
Drill driver
Drill – 1/2-inch
3/8-inch drill bit
Ratchet wrench and sockets
Circular saw
Chalk line
Concrete mixer
Hammer
Impact wrench
Shovel
30-foot tape measure
Tape measure
Utility knife
What Do I Need To Know Before Constructing A Deck?
Before moving ahead with your construction, you have first to address certain things to come up with a better idea about the type of deck you need.
Usage:
The most common question while building a new deck is how you are going to use it? Whether you need a deck for private sitting or requires for a large space for dinners and parties? Do you have children, or do you want extra protection on your deck?
Area assessment:
Next comes the area assessment as in which part of your house you want your deck to be. The area selection is crucial as it involves the consideration regarding your underground structures, location and many more.
Size of the deck:
The size of the deck depends on various factors including your usage, amount of furniture required and type of activities you are planning on doing on your deck.
So How Much Does It Cost To Build A Deck According To Type And Area Required?
We have mentioned a pricing estimate for building a deck all by yourself excluding the labour, accessories, bearers, joists or piles.
Timber Decks:
Pine 140×32 – $50/m2 incl GST
Kwila 140×19 – $89/m2 incl GST
Vitex 140×19 – $105/m2 incl GST
Garapa 140×19 – $104/m2 incl GST
Iroko 140×19 – $112/m2 incl GST
Composite:
Outdure 138×23 – $103/m2 incl GST
Millboard 176×32 – $210/m2 incl GST (and this was a good deal)
The cost-estimation mentioned above points out why the people opt for pinewood decks as compared to Kwila wood. The pinewood decks are affordable and easily available, making them budget-friendly. However, now the trend is making a shift and people are more willing to spend for durability, style and looks. So, nowadays we are witnessing a shift towards Kwila wood decks.
How much does it cost to build a deck with Kwila?
The cost of building a deck with Kwila in New Zealand can vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the deck, the complexity of the design, and the location. However, on average, the cost of building a deck with Kwila can range from around $200 to $300 per square meter. This cost includes the cost of materials and labor. It is important to note that this is an approximate estimate and the actual cost may vary. It would be best to get a quote from a local builder or contractor for a more accurate cost estimate.
How much does it cost to build a deck with Pine?
The cost of building a deck with Pine in New Zealand can vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the deck, the complexity of the design, and the location. However, on average, the cost of building a deck with Pine can range from around $150 to $250 per square meter. This cost includes the cost of materials and labor. Pine is a cheaper alternative than Kwila. However, it is important to note that this is an approximate estimate and the actual cost may vary. It would be best to get a quote from a local builder or contractor for a more accurate cost estimate. Additionally, Pine is not as durable as Kwila, so it may require more maintenance over time.
So, How Much Do I Have To Pay For Having A Deck At My House?
Well, if you are looking for a generic ballpark figure, then an uncovered deck will cost you about $300/m2. However, if you want to add some facilities including a gazebo, veranda or pergola, then the cost estimate would be $600/m2 including GST for deck covering.
We hope that this price or cost-estimate will assist you in making up your mind regarding what type of deck you need and how much cost has to bear. However, these estimate might vary depending on your specific requirements regarding the use of material, space, size and height of the deck. The cost-estimate is only there to let you get your head in the right direction with your demands and budget requirements.
Please note:Whilst all information is considered to be true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information. The information may change without notice and Superior Renovations is not in any way liable for the accuracy of any information printed and stored or in any way interpreted and used by a user.
At Superior Renovations, full project management is what we do. We partner with select architects, engineers and professional builders to create deck you’ve been envisioning.
Questions to ask your builder when building a deck
When building a deck in New Zealand, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the project scope and to work with a reputable builder. Here are a few questions to consider asking your builder:
Can you provide references or examples of previous deck building projects you have completed?
Are you qualified to build decks in New Zealand?
What materials do you recommend for my deck and why?
How will you handle any necessary permits or building consent applications if required?
How will you ensure that the deck is built to comply with local building codes and safety regulations?
How will you handle any unexpected challenges that may arise during the construction process?
What is your estimated timeline for completion of the project?
How will you handle any changes or modifications to the project scope?
How do you handle payment and what is the payment schedule?
What is your guarantee policy?
Asking these questions can help ensure that you have a clear understanding of the project and that your builder is reliable, knowledgeable and professional.
Quick recap
Do I need to apply for consent for building a deck?
If your deck is up to 1.5 meters in height from the ground, you don’t need any kind of consent for its build-up process. However, if you are building a deck more than 1.5 meters above, you require permission.
How much does it cost to build a deck in NZ?
Well, if you are looking for a generic ballpark figure, then an uncovered deck will cost you about $300/m2. However, if you want to add some facilities including a gazebo, veranda or pergola, then the cost estimate would be $600/m2 including GST for deck covering.
Do I engage a builder or a project manager?
If you are confused about whether or not hire a project manager for a decking project, then here are some of the perks associated with hiring professionals: • Quality work with extreme professionalism • Schedule tracking for completion of the project on time • The budget and cost estimates will be accurate
Can I remove my old decking and relay new decking?
The decks are made of wood, and they have a specific lifespan. Although you can enhance their lifespan with proper maintenance and care. But once they started rotting, you would have to replace the whole structure.
Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
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Very impressed with Superior Renovations.Building our pergola with blinds for a fair price .First thank you Sinan for quoting the job and your flexabilty and knowledge..Secondly the job was done well within the time frame, thanks to Jeff for supervising the job ( eventhough he wasn't too well) and keeping us up to date throughout the process. Payment was fair and easy as well . Thoroughly recommend Superior Renovations for your reno job 👍
Raj Dhana
Very efficient team of workers and high quality finish. Very happy with our renovated bathroom. We will use this company again.
neko rider
We’re very happy with the renovation work done by the team. It’s rare for renovation projects to finish on time, but they committed to completing ours before the Easter holiday—and they delivered! Our project manager, Jacob, worked incredibly hard (even physically! 😄) to make it happen.
I admit I might not have been the easiest client—I was particular about details like colours, tile placement, and exactly where the hand basin bowl should sit on the bench. But they listened, took it all on board, and got it done. Thank you, Jacob! I’ll definitely bring you another challenge in the future. 😉
Vilma Arcos
Thanks Superior Renovations for doing our house, it definitely looks a lot better now! Special thanks goes to Alison and Jacob for their excellent effort and good manners in handling the construction process, it wasn't easy but with them around it definitely became easier to handle. Cheers🥂
F J Bandukwala
Absolutely thrilled with the outcome of our renovation of two bathrooms and kitchen in a double level home. Kevin and his entire team were an absolute pleasure to work with from the get-go. Every minor detail was attended to, and all our requests were accommodated. Cyrus deserves a special mention as under his watchful eye and expertise, nothing could go wrong.
Jacquie
I have recently finished a renovation in our 1930’s bungalow, updating the original (and I do mean original) kitchen and bathroom. Plus creating a new laundry and removing three fireplaces which created two new spaces including an office. From the initial appointment with Alison who came over and then provided drawings and a quotation, to the work with Frank, our project manager and the team, this has been a wonderful renovation experience. I would have described myself as a nervous-renovator prior to doing this, as I had never done a renovation before, but Frank, Alison, Sunny and all the team have worked so tirelessly and generously to create spaces that we love. Superior’s care in managing the project has meant that we have come away with much more than we originally sought to achieve and without the stress I hear others lament about when they renovate. I would recommend Frank, Alison, Sunny and the team at Superior Renovations wholeheartedly.
Ike Harris
We engaged with three companies to completely renovate our downstairs and ensuite bathrooms. We elected to go with Superior Renovations as they provided us with a fixed price and specific timeline to complete the project (which two other companies could not do), and we were absolutely delighted with the end result. We love everything from the floor and wall tiles to the heated towel rails and from the LCD mirrors to the underfloor heating and soft close lids. We especially loved replacing the old tub in our ensuite with a walk-in shower.
The entire process went incredibly smoothly, with the project being completed on budget and ahead of schedule. From the initial design phase to the final touches, nothing was too much trouble for the team. Superior Renovations conducted themselves with the utmost professionalism, ensuring every detail was perfect.
Frank (Project Manager) and the team did such an amazing job. Totally professional outfit, top notch communication, all tradies were courteous, polite and respectful. Alex (Builder) was especially knowledgeable and offered great solutions as minor issues unfolded. Each stage of the renovation was completed on the day it was scheduled. The crew were always on time and mindful of our work from home arrangements. And I was also impressed with the floor protection that was laid out on the first day.
Through no fault of Superior, we did encounter a major, unforeseen setback that delayed our renovation on the downstairs bathroom. Superior were patient with us while we sourced specialists to remedy the issue. But once that was all sorted, Frank and the team picked up the baton and charged ahead to the finish line, delivering two beautifully ‘superior’ bathrooms. We also experienced a minor electrical issue post-build. And even though it was unrelated to their renovation work, Frank promptly dispatched an electrician who quickly fixed the problem. Talk about above and beyond!
In summary, we highly recommend Superior Renovations for anyone looking to undertake bathroom renovations in their home. We’re already talking about renovating the kitchen next and we’re so confident in Superior Renovations that we will most certainly be engaging with them to complete the task.
A huge thank you to Frank, Alex and all the wonderful team at Superior Renovations:)
Kalina Hristova
Superior Renovations did an amazing job we would definitely recommend them for anyone looking for a high quality outcome. Our Project Manager Jacob was amazing, taking care of any minor adjustments we wanted, nothing was too much trouble.
Melanie Whittaker
Absolutely love my new ensuite bathroom. Superior Renovations made the process so enjoyable, I'm truly delighted with the transformation from an old tired room to modern functionality. Jacob led a wonderful team of professionals who were considerate and efficient. He answered any query with reassurance and patience. I'm now looking at engaging them again for my main bathroom because I'm not fearful of renovating anymore and confident I'll get a superior outcome. They definitely lived up to their name!
Carolina Guerra
Superior Renovations transformed our bathroom, and we couldn’t be happier. Cici, Jacob, Alex, and Ray were a fantastic team (Ray, our dog, is going to miss you). They tackled our old house’s quirks with creativity and attention to detail. We were especially impressed that they stayed within budget, even with a few surprises along the way. We’d definitely choose Superior Renovations again and highly recommend them.
Regina Cho
Thanks Sunny, Jacob and the team for a great renovation. We had 2 bathrooms, the laundry room and front door re-done and very pleased with the results.
Kalpana Iyer
Superior Renovations did a good job for our deck, they are professional and took on board any changes suggested by us and gave good ideas and advice.
They took care of cleaning up all the mess after every job.
Good value for money.
Special mention to Cici, Frank & all the workers.😊 Thank you so much
Highly recommended 👍😊
Narelle Silwood
It was a pleasure to work with Jacob and his team. They installed a lovely new kitchen which met all my requirements, it arrived on schedule and I was kept informed all the way through the project. Thanks Jacob ... you did a great job. Narelle
Gavin Botica
I recently engaged the services of Superior Renovations for a complete renovation of my kitchen and bathroom, and I couldn't be happier with the results. The entire process went incredibly smoothly, with the project being completed on budget and ahead of schedule. From the initial design phase to the final touches, nothing was too much trouble for the team. They conducted themselves with the utmost professionalism, ensuring every detail was perfect. I highly recommend Superior Renovations for anyone looking to renovate their home.
Chinchien Lin
We have our bathroom renovation scheduled later this week. Everything so far is awesome. They are very patient and nice to work with!
My wife's dream of a bathtub is finally happening. Can't wait to see the final result!
Rajesh Kumar
Great work done by Superior Renovation.Great service and efficient job.Big thanks to Jacob and they team.Highly recommend.Got my 2 bathrooms renovated.
Narene Orchard
We had the best experience using Superior Renovations. They had a good range of products available making it easy to pick the fixtures and fittings. The team were experienced and had great pride in their work, from the office to onsite we were treated like valued customers. The product we ended up with exceeded our expectations.
Dhruv Mehta
Great experience with Superior renovations. I would highly recommend it for anyone looking to renovate their house.
Steve
We engaged Superior Renovations to transform our 30-year old, tired looking and problematic bathroom into something world class - and wow! The end result is simply stunning. The team led by Frank did an absolutely fantastic job. This was our first major renovation project and the entire process was easy and hassle free. The team delivered on schedule, within budget and the quality of their work is outstanding. If you are considering renovating - do not go past these guys.
Linda Meyer
Wish I had given more of my renovation project to Superior earlier in the process. Superior team was knowledgeable, skilled and exception to work with. Will certainly be a repeat customer if ever a need comes up.
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