Western Australia consists of a range of different soil types, ranging from sands through to clays and rocks. Our Lead Architect, Mary Ong, talks about the importance of speaking to an expert when embarking on your home building journey.
Engaging a Structural or Geotechnical Engineer is imperative to determining the soil / site classification of your block and the classification should be completed to Australian Standards.
Choosing the correct Designer and Builder for your site is also critical. The appropriate Designer and Builder will deliver a home that will best suit the requirements of your site effectively and efficiently.
The type of soil that a house is built on affects site preparation and footing and slab details. More reactive sites will typically require additional site works and will in turn increase the overall cost of the building.
Predominantly, the Perth Metropolitan area has Class A sites – mostly sand and rock sites with little or no ground movement. However, it is best to have an expert determine your site classification. This should be done as part of the design and engineering phase.
*Other Classifications;
Class S – Slight reactive clay sites
Class M – moderately reactive clay or silt sites
Class H – Highly reactive clay sites
Class E – Extremely reactive sites
Class P – A problem site
*Source: A New House
Each classification determines the level of ground movement from moisture changes. It is important to have adequate drainage should your site be classified as reactive.
When we discuss designing and building houses, little is discussed about soil / site classification, more emphasis seems to be placed on orientation. As consumers perhaps we need to be better educated when purchasing a block, and if you don’t know…ask.
Schedule an appointment with our award-winning team today.
Matthew is a Site Supervisor with over 10 years’ experience in luxury, bespoke residential construction. His career has seen him manage a wide range of high-end residential and commercial projects, while also sharing his expertise as a Building Studies lecturer at North Metro TAFE.
A Registered Building Practitioner with a Diploma of Building and Construction, Matthew is recognised for his strong communication, collaborative approach, and commitment to quality outcomes. In 2017, he was a finalist in the Ric New Rising Star Awards, a reflection of his drive and dedication to the industry.
Matthew thrives on problem-solving and enjoys working closely with architects, engineers, and trades to deliver projects that are both unique and of the highest standard. For him, the greatest reward is seeing happy clients at the end of the build, achieved through his “one team, one dream” style of collaboration.
With over 25 years of experience across the building industry, Simon brings a wealth of practical knowledge and a calm, solutions-focused approach to his role as Maintenance Supervisor at Weststyle. Holding a Certificate III in Carpentry and Joinery, his career has spanned a wide range of trades.
For the past decade, Simon has worked as a full-time maintenance contractor and supervisor, honing his skills in problem-solving and attention to detail. His relaxed yet professional nature allows him to communicate effectively and build strong relationships with clients and colleagues alike.
Simon enjoys the variety that comes with maintenance work, no two days are ever the same, and takes pride in working on Weststyle’s beautiful homes and meeting the wonderful clients behind them. Always prepared and ready for any situation, Simon approaches each job with care, precision, and a genuine dedication to quality.