Module: Introducing bracing

Roof gutters are an important component of the building envelope, designed to control the disposal of rainwater from the roof. The most important functions of gutters are to help protect against:

• excessive or concentrated wetting of external wall surfaces
• water getting inside the building roof space or wall framing
• increased wetness of soils around the building and subsequent increased moisture loads on basement waterproofing 
• undermining of areas around the building where there is controlled spillage onto the ground.

Leaking or overflowing gutters may cause problems with dampness in subfloor areas or basements or elevated moisture levels in cladding and within wall framing.

This Good Repair Guide covers the repair or replacement of fully accessible metal and plastic external gutters around the outside perimeter of the building that are fixed to a fascia board or rafter ends. It does not cover gutters that are concealed behind a proprietary metal fascia or internal or within-roof gutters. 

Building and renovation work can result in spills and splashes causing undesirable staining on nearby surfaces. The most common substances likely to cause staining if not handled or used correctly include:

• paints, varishes and stains (waterborne and solventborne)
• oil, grease and wax
• adhesives
• sealants (silicone and latex)
• concrete and cement-based mortar and grout
• asphalt and tar.

 This Good Repair Guide covers:

• the solvents and cleaners available for stain removal and the procedures for removing different types of construction-related stains without damaging the underlying material
• physical removal options such as abrading, rubbing, sanding, scraping, sandblasting, grinding, steam cleaning, brushing or scouring where appropriate
• dry materials that may be applied to a stain or spillage. 

The art deco house of the 1930s was a dramatic change to the earlier villa and bungalow. A flat roof, stucco cladding, rounded corners and reduced decoration all contributed to art deco's distinctive style.

These houses are often bought for their style rather than performance. Their stucco cladding and very low-pitched roofs often had weathertightness problems, and without renovation, art deco houses can be cold to live in. Careful renovation can retain the popular style while improving performance and comfort.

This book covers:

• what defines art deco style
• how these houses were constructed, and with what materials
• typical modifications they have had in the decades since they were built
• problems that may be encountered and suggested remedies
• how to get a consent for renovation work, looking at compliance paths and Alternative Solutions
• project and construction planning.

Tongue and groove (T&G) timber floors laid over joists are a typical feature of older New Zealand homes. From the earliest houses until 1970s, all houses had timber floorboards.

Moisture changes in the timber can cause floorboards to expand and contract, and timber flooring is also susceptible to minor damage such as scuffs and scratches.

This Good Repair Guide describes the types of repairs that can be made where damage to floorboards is minor or localised. It does not cover major repairs or where the floor may need to be replaced as a result of subfloor or foundation failure.