Knockdown Rebuilds: What Is The Fixing Stage in Victoria?

23 October 2024
News
Varcon Group

The fixing stage is one of the most exciting parts of a knockdown rebuild project, particularly in Victoria. It’s the point where your new home starts to come together on the inside, with all the key elements that make a house livable being installed. 

From cabinetry to internal doors, the fixing stage transforms your home’s structure into a fully functional living space. Understanding this critical stage is essential, as it gives you insight into how your dream home will become a reality.

When Does The Fixing Stage Happen?

The fixing stage occurs after the “lock-up” phase, when the external structure of the house is secured, meaning that windows, external doors, and roofing are in place. At this point, the house is weather-tight, and the construction moves to focus on the interior.

This stage happens once all the necessary preparatory work has been done, such as framing, external walls, and rough-ins for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems. It typically follows the installation of insulation and wall linings like plasterboard. The fixing stage occurs towards the final third of the building process and sets the stage for finishing touches and cosmetic elements in the subsequent phases.

Who Is Involved With The Fixing Stage?

The fixing stage involves multiple tradespeople working together to bring the various elements of the home’s interior to life. Here’s a breakdown of the key professionals involved:

  • Carpenters: Carpenters are central to the fixing stage, as they are responsible for fitting internal doors, architraves, skirting boards, and any timber features like staircases or handrails. They also install cabinetry for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries.
  • Electricians and Plumbers: Although much of the electrical and plumbing work is done earlier during the rough-in stage, electricians and plumbers return during the fixing stage to install fixtures like light switches, power outlets, and plumbing fittings (e.g. taps and basins).
  • Tilers: Tilers may be brought in at this stage to begin laying tiles in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries, creating durable and water-resistant surfaces.
  • Painters: Some builders prefer to bring in painters during the fixing stage to apply initial coats of paint to internal walls and woodwork, setting up the home for final aesthetic touches later.
  • Kitchen and Bathroom Installers: The installation of cabinetry in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry is a major part of the fixing stage, often handled by specialised kitchen and bathroom fit-out teams.

Which Elements Come Together in The Fixing Stage?

The fixing stage brings together many of the key internal components of your new home. Here’s a look at what’s typically included:

  • Internal Doors: This includes the installation of standard doors, sliding doors, and any special feature doors.
  • Skirting and Architraves: These are the decorative trims that frame doors, windows, and floors, adding an element of design while covering any gaps between walls and flooring.
  • Cabinetry: Cabinets for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas are fitted during the fixing stage. This includes cupboards, countertops, and storage units.
  • Bathroom Fittings: Toilets, vanities, sinks, and shower bases are installed, preparing the bathroom for use. Taps and other plumbing fixtures are often fitted during this phase too.
  • Shelving and Wardrobes: Built-in wardrobes and shelving units for storage spaces are installed.
  • Lighting and Power: Light fittings, power outlets, and switches are installed, connecting the pre-laid electrical wiring to the home’s essential systems.

At the end of the fixing stage, your home will be visibly more complete, with rooms taking their final shape and essential fixtures in place.

What Is a Fixing Inspection?

A fixing inspection is a crucial part of the knockdown rebuild process in Victoria. It occurs towards the end of the fixing stage and serves as a quality check to ensure that all work completed so far is up to standard. An independent inspector or building surveyor will visit the site to examine the following:

  • The correct installation of internal doors, architraves, and skirting boards.
  • The proper fitting of cabinetry and any fixed joinery.
  • The placement and function of electrical outlets, light switches, and plumbing fixtures.
  • General alignment and finishing of all internal elements, ensuring there are no gaps, damage, or poor workmanship.

The fixing inspection ensures that everything has been installed according to the building plans, regulations, and industry standards. Once this inspection is passed, the construction process moves into the final stages, where flooring, painting, and cosmetic finishes are applied.

 

Trust Varcon Group With Your Knockdown Rebuild, Including Fixing

The fixing stage is a pivotal part of your knockdown rebuild project, where all the internal components of your new home come together. With carpenters, electricians, and other skilled tradespeople working on key elements like doors, skirting, and cabinetry, this stage transforms the building into a livable space. A fixing inspection ensures that everything meets industry standards, so you can feel confident in the quality of your home.

When you choose Varcon Group for your knockdown rebuild, you’re partnering with a trusted builder committed to delivering excellence at every stage of construction. We ensure that your home is built to the highest standards, including during the all-important fixing stage.

 

CONTACT VARCON GROUP

 

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