Hi folks, I'm new to posting but have spent many hours scouring threads instead of sleeping (which I will regret when my kids get up at sparrow's fart!).
We're finalising our plans to build a double storey in Melb and our builder is offering Hebel Power Panels instead of traditional brick for nix. Having read the material, it sounds like a no brainer - quicker to install, good for sound/heat, nicer look to have both floors rendered...but other than the material from the makers, there is virtually no other info about it online (that I can find...and I'm a pretty good Googler!). No super horror stories, no "oh my gosh Hebel is the best thing ever because..." stories. So how's a gal to decide?!
I was hoping someone with experience (perhaps someone who has built with Hebel or installs it for a crust!) can help us decide if it's worth "the risk". Hubby is quite adamant about sticking to brick as it's a known quantity and doesn't want to take the plunge with Hebel without more info that's not direct from the mouth of the maker. Is it strong and sturdy? Can it survive the beating of a basketball being constantly bounced against it? Can you put big tiles on it for a feature wall? Will it crumble if you accidentally crash a lawn mower into it? If anyone can provide their two cents and weigh in on the debate, it'd be much appreciated. Gotta make a choice by mid April!!
Ta muchly in advance