Which exterior walls for raising of Queenslander?

[huckfinn]

Hi all. We are planning to raise our queenslander 3.2mt from ground and build underneath. We noticed that on many similar cases here, the new ground floor has outside walls made of timber frames. We were maybe thinking of using cinder walls or Hebel + some sort of insulation + “timber” cladding outside (to match existing ..). Any suggestions? Pros and cons and advice? Many thanks,

H.

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @huckfinn. It's brilliant to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about raising your home.

Raising a Queenslander and building underneath is a significant undertaking, and the choice of exterior walls will impact both the aesthetics and functionality of the new space. 

When deciding on exterior walls, you have several options to consider. Traditional timber frames offer you the ability to clad them with a variety of options, such as cement cladding boards or planks. Alternatively, materials like cinder blocks, Hebel, or fibre cement board provide durability and insulation but may involve higher upfront costs. Steel frames would be worth considering if you are in a termite-prone zone. 

As you've mentioned, a combination could be the best solution, as you'll be able to achieve a much higher thermal value with both a cement block/panel and insulation between the timber frame and cladding.

I'd recommend consulting with a local architect or builder for personalised advice, which will help you make an informed decision that aligns with building codes and regulations.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[huckfinn]

Thanks for your reply Mitchell. We’re in Parramatta Park (so inner city). How about cinder blocks (or Hebel), with cladding boards outside (without timber frame) and tongue and groove inside? With some sort of insulation in between? Is it a good way to go? Basically the idea is for blocks to replace the timber frame.. Is it feasible? More expensive??

[MitchellMc]

You'd at least need to batton out the cinderblock wall to install the exterior cladding boards @huckfinn, as I don't believe installing them directly onto the cinderblocks would conform with guidelines. You'll find technical installation guides on the James Hardie website. 

For the inside, you'd still need to create a timber frame for the depth required to install insulation and to adhere to installation guidelines for the panelling. The tongue and groove can be installed over the timber frame. So, in answer to your questions, utilising cinderblocks would be of a higher cost than simply building a timber framed wall cladded on the outside and panelling on the inside. However, the cinderblocks will provide a higher insulating value.

Mitchell

[huckfinn]

Thank you very much for your replies. We’ll probably go for stud walls. Thanks again!

[MitchellMc]

Please keep us updated on your project @huckfinn and feel free to reach out again if you have further questions.

Mitchell

[huckfinn]

Absolutely. Thanks again.