Foil wrap not done before brickwork

aliminter · Jul 30, 2023 10:09 am

Hi, we are having a duplex built in Sydney. The contract says the Sisal Foil wrap will be applied to all external walls. Is this meant to be applied to the framing before the brickwork is done? We have just noticed that there is none and the brick veneer has been finished. Could they still apply it now?

KnockItDown · Jul 30, 2023 12:05 pm

Unfortunately the answer will be no. Best thing to do is to email your builder pointing it out and then seeking a refund on the cost of the wrap.

Ardo · Jul 31, 2023 8:43 am

Make sure it still complies with basix and the NCC before accepting any refund.

ponzutwo · Jul 31, 2023 10:36 am

KnockItDown

Unfortunately the answer will be no. Best thing to do is to email your builder pointing it out and then seeking a refund on the cost of the wrap.

the better option would be having them knock the bricks down and actully building as per contract. if you had the option of going wrap vs no wrap and a couple extra bucks in the bank, youd take wrap any day of the week.

I would not budge on this and it will make then, stop and think twice before cutting corners again

KnockItDown · Jul 31, 2023 12:24 pm

There's no doubt an error has been made if the contract says wrap and it hasn't been done however, picking the right battles to fight during a build is also a balance.

Granted each owner is entitled to challenge whatever items or issues they like with their build.

Yes checking the BASIX is still up to spec is good callout and something that the builder will need to confirm and remedy if required to do so.

ponzutwo · Jul 31, 2023 1:22 pm

KnockItDown

picking the right battles to fight during a build is also a balance.

wall wrap is not an insignificant part of a build, not only does it add insulation to the home, it protects it from elements that make it into the cavity.

Ashington Homes · Jul 31, 2023 3:12 pm

aliminter

Hi, we are having a duplex built in Sydney. The contract says the Sisal Foil wrap will be applied to all external walls. Is this meant to be applied to the framing before the brickwork is done? We have just noticed that there is none and the brick veneer has been finished. Could they still apply it now?

You can definitely do it on the inside before gyprock, so all is not lost. You can even pick a good quality class 4 vapour barrier and you should get a good result.

The key though is getting them to tape all the joins and penetrations. If you have time I would be happy to show you a build we are doing where we have done this, but you need to get your builder to agree to it.

cheers

Simeon

building-expert · Jul 31, 2023 3:30 pm

Foid wrap is essential component of energy efficiency and if not installed then alternative solution must be applied subject to building surveyors approval.
A good option would be foil board neatly cut and fitted. You could cut strips and fit then between brickwork and studs then whole pieces between studs.

Good option would be to revisit energy report and then approve it with foil board

ownerinproblem · Dec 25, 2023 9:57 am

Ashington Homes

aliminter

Hi, we are having a duplex built in Sydney. The contract says the Sisal Foil wrap will be applied to all external walls. Is this meant to be applied to the framing before the brickwork is done? We have just noticed that there is none and the brick veneer has been finished. Could they still apply it now?

You can definitely do it on the inside before gyprock, so all is not lost. You can even pick a good quality class 4 vapour barrier and you should get a good result.

The key though is getting them to tape all the joins and penetrations. If you have time I would be happy to show you a build we are doing where we have done this, but you need to get your builder to agree to it.

cheers

Simeon

I am in the same situation, would you be able to give some insights in to this?

I am in SA