Frequently Asked Questions - Lockwood Homes
Q We hear that Lockwoods are noisy. Is this so?
A Yes, some older Lockwoods are, but with the new polypropylene membrane applied to interior wallboards and sarking, this minimises noise caused by expansion and contraction.
Q Can we make changes to the plans?
A There is very little that cannot be altered in a Lockwood plan. Our focus is on providing you with a quality home that meets your every need. More and more of our customers are asking for assistance with their own plan ideas which we call "design and build"
Q Do you build pole houses?
A Yes, more quickly and cheaply than others as no scaffolding is required and all components are loaded on to the platform (floor). (Aluminium sheathing.)
Q Can Lockwood's be added to later?
A Yes, to suit the changing needs and requirements of the family.
Q Is there much of a price difference between a concrete floor and that of piles and timber?
A Depending on the nature (fall and ground makeup) of the site, which should be inspected for fit, etc, not much difference on a flat site.
Q Can you build on a site with no access?
A Yes - we can use helicopters/barges, etc. (This will incur extra costs.)
Q Is the timber in Lockwood houses treated in any way?
A Yes, it is in accordance with the Building Act. Exposed timber is Class H3 treated. For overseas conditions, special treatments can be arranged.
Q Can we have an all timber exterior house?
A Yes, in either Cedar or New Zealand Radiata Pine.
Q What treatment or painting is required to maintain this?
A Oil stain, or an acrylic film.
Q What colour may we use?
A As stained or even natural timber will attract heat, dark colours must be avoided as they tendto create timber movement, drying out and permit fungal attack. They will require annual staining. Lighter colours are recommended.
Q What is the price difference between Aluminium, Cedar and Pine finishes?
A Between the sheathed Aluminium and Pine, negligible. There is a slight extra charge for the Cedar option.
Q Can we use alternative exterior cladding such as brick?
A You will recognise the premium quality and low maintenance that aluminium cladding provides, however if you are keen to have some or all of your new home clad in brick we can help you with that.
Q Is it true that Lockwoods are highly earthquake resistant?
A Yes, as New Zealand (and other countries we export to) require this qualification, tests carried out by the Wakefield Laboratories on a three bedroom Lockwood home saw the home subjected to 22 simulated earthquakes of up to 7.5 on the Richter Scale and emerge undamaged. The Bay of Plenty earthquakes of 1987 bore this out too.
Q Are Lockwoods suitable in high wind, exposed or cyclonic areas?
A Yes, this is another qualification and requirement by New Zealand and other countries we export to. The standard house is designed to withstand wind speeds of 50 metres per second (115 m.p.h.), but can be designed for higher wind loads.
Q Can it be double glazed for extra insulation and sound proofing?
A Yes, this is done for cold climates and noisy areas.
Q Can we add extra electrical connections at a later stage?
A Yes, the skirtings, scotia, door frames and cappings are recessed to permit wiring being ducted. It can also be installed against walls, in wardrobes and cupboards, and the outlet drilled through to the required area.
Q Can the home be transported and relocated at a later stage?
A Yes, Lockwood is perfect for "moving around" as it is structurally very flexible with no wall linings or rigid fixings to break, or plaster, or paint, paper to tear and damage. All of our showhomes, both large and small, are transportable and can be relocated when required (if built on a timber floor).
Q Is it true there is little or no maintenance required?
A That is true because of the very nature of the materials, but maintenance and care of your investment are two different things. We would suggest regular washing and cleaning down of exterior walls and joinery to remove pollutants such as moss, mould, sea salt spray, and industrial contaminants, etc., as with a motor vehicle.