Building new and managing your own building site can be a very stressful time. You will make more decisions, talk to more people, write more cheques and gain more wrinkles, than you ever thought possible! Oh sorry, I forgot to mention filing for divorce ten times as well.
It's not quite that bad, but it does put the pressure on. However there is an answer "Organisation".
You will succeed if you organise everything. No! Not just the building project, I mean everything. The builder, the weather, the subcontractors, the cat, telecom, the kids and work, that place you go to so you can write more cheques, and yes, the kitchen sink.
Start Early
Plumbing is an area which can be decided on fairly early on in the project. The plans are detailed for the purpose which means the bathroom, kitchen and laundry fittings can be and should be chosen and quoted on before you start on site. The toilet pans for example need to be chosen before the concrete floor is poured and the shower mixers are installed in the timber frame before any wall linings are fixed. So don’t wait until the plumber explains he can’t continue until these things are sorted out.
Chesters showrooms and our consultants are knowledgeable and experienced in the procedure.
The Quotes
Use the product description on the finalised quotes as your specification list. Give this to the builder and plumber so they are aware of the plumbing fittings you wish to have installed. This will save confusion, which often happens on site.
You Will Need a Plumber
Chesters can help you find a plumber skilled in new work. Feel free to contact your nearest Chesters branch for a referral.
They Don't Make Them Like They Used To
How many times have you heard this saying? It certainly relates to the plumbing industry. Tapware installed in New Zealand homes in the 50's and 60's is still going strong today with parts readily available, from a new tap washer to a complete reconditioning. This will not be the case for a large part of the cheaper tapware imported into New Zealand.
The durability and performance from this low cost end of the market is in question. This product will have difficulty meeting the long term expectations of the purchaser.
The irony is that good quality tapware and plumbing fittings don't have to cost the earth. An increased investment of around 30% to purchase well known and proven tapware will ensure satisfaction.
Check the market out before you purchase and the warranty offered should be a major part in your decision making.
Child Safety First
Heated towel rails, particularly chrome-plated models, can reach high enough temperatures to burn sensitive skin. Most are installed at child height.
Your electrician can install an adjustable switch similar to a light dimmer to bring the temperature down to a safe level.
Make sure all grates are installed on the drains and stormwater chambers, as these are full of water and extremely dangerous for toddlers.
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