Hi All

I’m in early conceptual stages of designing a WIR / ensuite between the side of the house (Melbourne) and the property boundary (as is common in our area). I’ve never built right on the boundary before so I know little about the various options for an external fire wall and would greatly appreciate some input. I have spoken to the council and they confirm that they have no additional requirements beyond the BCA. The existing house is timber on concrete stumps.

1. I’d get the boundary surveyed before construction.
2. Roof would be Colorbond – I’m having trouble seeing where in the BCA it states how far above the roof the fire wall needs to extend (if at all)?
3. I assume the only footing option (to achieve fire rating) is a strip footing? I imagine this is likely to be 300mm wide by 600mm deep reinforced?
4. Wall material options …
a. Brick (single skin presumably requiring double brick columns at ???mm intervals)?
b. Besser blocks?
c. Hebel?
d. James Hardie (or other) plaster / fibro / timber wall system (would probably want a skin of corrugated iron so outside was maintenance free)?
e. Other?

I may or may not undertake some of the construction on this project myself but I’m keen to understand how it goes together regardless. Would appreciate any input on the most cost effective solution and the benefits (or otherwise) of these.

Cheers.


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