2024 HCA Design Guidelines

C1.04 Downpipes and other attachments

standards. For example, avoid using external wall cladding that relies on water sprinklers to increase the fire resistance level (FRL) of the product. • If using metal cladding it is to be installed no lower than 1200mm AFFL. • Integrated finishes are preferable to applied finishes. Paint finishes are to be avoided where possible; where painted walls are unavoidable; they are to be painted with Dulux Acra-Tex or equal approved. • Large areas of render or painted surfaces that require scaffolding to maintain should be avoided. • Ensure proprietary systems including any vapour or waterproof barriers have been captured in wall types and façade build ups. • Consider the potential for façade materials to be recycled for future use, such as bricks. • Toughened glass should be avoided where possible and where not possible it must be specified to follow steps to minimise risk of failure due to nickel sulfide inclusions. • Aluminium where used is to have powdercoat finish to internal areas and any external areas that will be subject to regular contact with occupants or maintenance persons. The difficulty of matching the finish in repairing damage to anodised finishes must be considered. The ‘soft’ nature of PVF2 (Polyvinylidene Difluoride) must also be considered and determined as appropriate for proposed application. • Cladding systems are to remain intact and waterproof under the local climatic conditions and provide adequate means of dealing with vapour pressure, condensation, wind, corrosion and thermal movement. • All cladding material shall be mechanically fixed in accordance with manufacturer’s details. • The materials palette must be developed as part of the integrated architectural and interior design concept.

Downpipes and Other Attachments Considerations Checklist: • Subject to any government or planning authorities’ acceptance, downpipes are to be concealed within the facades of the building where possible. Any necessary exposed downpipes and fixing brackets must be colorbond steel, exposed galvanised steel, painted plastic or similar approved by Housing Choices. • Exposed pipework is not permitted on balconies where the balcony protrudes from the general facade line.

Detailing Detailing Considerations Checklist:

C1.05

• Building elements such as balconies, roofs, screens, and window hoods should be designed to be ‘integral’ to the building rather than appear to ‘bolt on’. • Avoid moving parts that are likely to break and require increased maintenance, such as operable external screens • Include ventilation gaps and vapour barriers as required and as per any manufacturers specifications to ensure condensation does not build up within walls and ceilings. High Density Consideration Checklist: • Consider the suitability of open or visually permeable balustrades as some residents may experience vertigo, particularly at upper levels. Additionally, the spacing and profile of balustrade elements should be selected to avoid the potential of wind noise such as “cat wailing” that can be created by building elements in high winds. Consider prevailing wind direction/aspect of façade, existing built form, environmental context and anticipated wind loading/gusting in immediate environment.

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Housing Choices Australia | Design Guidelines

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