Peter Betteridge recently built a two-storey, three bedroom home with a full brick lower-level. His decision was based on full bricks’ inherent strength and noise insulation properties.
To achieve the structural strength required to lay a concrete slab for the upper-level, full brick was the best viable option. “We wanted to lay a slab for the upper-level to reduce noise in the home and full brick was the only way we could do that,” explained Peter.
Laying a concrete slab between the upper- and lower-levels provides superior sound insulation compared to standard construction techniques.
Recognising the surrounding environment of the building site, Peter’s decision to build in full brick on the lower-level was also influenced by the close proximity of a kindergarten.
“Brick’s ability to reduce noise is very much needed in our location. Knowing that we were building next door to a kindergarten allowed us to plan for this in the design of the house.
“In addition to the structural support gained through a full brick lower-level, the design provides a peaceful haven – even in school hours. The full brick is so effective that we never hear any outside noise, not even when it is lunch time at the school,” said Peter.
Because of their mass, bricks are extremely effective in reducing annoying low frequency noise such as traffic. The cavity between the layers of bricks also plays a part in buffering the transmission of sound through the walls.
If you are searching for a way to create a home that is truly a peaceful haven from the noisy and chaotic world, then a full brick home – the gold standard in housing – is ideal.
To discover the benefits of a full brick home or to explore the wide range of products available, visit an Austral Bricks display centre, their website www.fullbrick.com.au or call 1800 670 235.
Austral Bricks display centres are at Horsley Park, Bowral, Albion Park, Punchbowl, Fyshwick ACT, Newcastle and Tuggerah.
