Using alternative materials in your build or renovation
20 March 2024
If you're seeking to build a new property or renovate an existing home, you might like to consider a range of alternative and sustainable building materials now available on the market. These materials can be cost effective and help reduce any impact on the natural environment.
Alternative materials can include:
Hempcrete: derived from the inner woody fibers of the hemp plant, hempcrete is a blend of hemp, lime and water. It stands as a sustainable alternative to conventional materials like concrete. Renowned for its excellent thermal properties and lightweight composition, hempcrete is also carbon-negative, making it a favourable choice for eco-conscious builders.
Rammed earth: drawing from ancient building techniques, rammed earth involves compacting a mixture of earth, chalk, lime, or gravel tightly within a frame to create sturdy walls. This method boasts sustainability, thermal mass properties and aesthetic appeal, making it an attractive option for environmentally-friendly construction.
Recycled timber: repurposing timber from old structures minimises environmental impact. By using reclaimed timber, builders not only contribute to sustainable practices but also add unique character to their projects.
Sustainable concrete alternatives: innovations in concrete alternatives, such as geopolymer concrete and high-performance recycled aggregates, aim to mitigate the environmental impact associated with traditional concrete production. These alternatives offer comparable strength and durability while reducing carbon emissions and resource consumption.
Modular and prefabricated construction: Although not materials themselves, modular and prefabricated construction methods are gaining popularity for their efficiency, reduced waste and accelerated construction timelines. By assembling components off-site and transporting them to the location, builders minimise environmental disturbance and enhance sustainability.
Development applications and using alternative materials
Given that some alternative building materials are not specified in the National Construction Code (NCC) of Australia, you will need to engage a qualified building consultant accredited by NSW Fair Trading to help you choose materials that meet NCC's performance requirements.
If building materials aren’t specified in the NCC, your consultant will need to conduct a Performance-Based Solution Report– which is an alternative way of complying with the National Construction Code of Australia (NCC).
For construction in bushfire-prone locations, transparency with your bushfire consultant about the desired materials is crucial. It is essential you include the performance-based solution report in your bushfire report as it will be assessed by council officers and NSW Fire Services. Find out more about how to build on bushfire prone land.