Building Guides & Resources

Straight-up building know-how from a team that's been at it since 1988.

Over the years we've written up the building problems people ask us about most — leaks and moisture, materials and finishes, and the council rules that catch everyone out. No jargon, no sales pitch, just what we've learned from decades of pulling buildings apart and putting them right. Have a browse below, and if any of it rings true for your place, give us a call.

Leaks, moisture & weathertightness


Managing Mould in Your Home — Why it shows up, the health risks, and how to get rid of it for good.
 Preventing Timber Rot — Spot the early signs and stop rot before it eats into your home.
 Flood Damage to Plasterboard — Why soaked walls usually need replacing, not just drying out.
 Particle-Board Flooring & Water Damage — Why saturated flooring has to go, and what happens if it doesn't.
 Efflorescence Explained — What that white, fluffy stuff on your brick or concrete is really telling you.
 The Hidden Risks of Foil Insulation — Trapped moisture and electrical hazards most people never see coming.
 Weather-Induced Property Damage — How Auckland's weather works its way into a building over time.
 Preparing Your Home for Auckland's Weather — Simple checks to do before the next big downpour.
 Using the Trotec T660 Moisture Meter — A look at how we measure moisture properly, the way the pros do.


Materials, finishes & smart choices


Choosing the Right Timber for Your Deck — Which timbers last outdoors, and which ones will let you down.
 Aluminium Composite Panels — Where they shine, where they don't, and the fire-safety question.
 Stylish & Durable Splashbacks — Picking a splashback that still looks good in ten years.
 Choosing the Right Toilet Height — A small detail that makes a surprising difference to comfort.
 Exposing Insulation – Do's & Don'ts — How to handle insulation safely when you open up a wall or ceiling.
Bathroom Trends — Fresh ideas worth pinching for your next bathroom.


Consents, rules & compliance


Schedule 1: Building Work Exemptions — What you're allowed to build without a council consent.
 Building Permits from Auckland Council — How the consent process actually works, step by step.
 Adapting to the Building Code Updates — What's changed in the code and how it affects your project.
 Environmental Regulations in NZ Construction — The green rules every builder has to work within.
 The Consumer Protection Act by Property Type — Where you stand, and what you're entitled to.
 DIY Asbestos Removal Rules in NZ — What you can legally do yourself, and where the line is.
 Earthquake-Resistant Renovations — Building a bit of resilience in while you're at it.



More over on our blog — We're always adding new pieces. Visit the Aries blog for the latest.