An Aesthetically Superior Versatile Noise Barrier, Northern Road, Penrith

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Challenge
Lend Lease in conjunction with Abi Group required a noise attenuation wall along The Northern Road upgrade project at Jordan Springs. The project needed to meet strict conditions of the Roads and Maritime Service (RMS) R271 specification, including extended design life and impact resistance.

Together with high acoustic performance, a key component of the solution was to maintain a superior aesthetic look similar to a BarrierWallTM built by Modular Wall SystemsTM in the adjacent award winning Urban development – Jordan Springs. Not without construction challenges either, our team also needed to design with integrated retaining panels and pedestrian interaction in mind.

Solution
Modular Wall SystemsTM worked with PND Civil to present a high performing and cost-effective solution. The unique GuardianWall™ incorporated AcoustiMaxTM75 panels to comfortably exceed all requirements including the required 31+RW (Weighted Sound Reduction Index) ensuring outstanding noise abatement. But the stand-out feature of this wall was the cutting edge aesthetics. The customised design ensured a simple, singular beam footing that integrated with the existing retaining wall. A unique characteristic of the panels was a ‘fit for purpose’ UB
infill by Modular Wall SystemsTM that ensured a like finish on both sides, eliminating the inferior, yet common trait, of having a ‘good’ and ‘bad’ side. Given the benefits of GuardianWall™ requires no heavy lifting equipment at time of installation, contractors installed it with ease and within a very short time frame.

Caltex Acoustic Solutions for Service Stations

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A Caltex service station in Sydney’s west had to construct an acoustic and visual wall to shield adjacent neighbours from the operational noise of a 24 hour Star Mart service station. Owing to an unstable existing retaining wall between the construction site and neighbouring properties, the solution needed to encompass a complex cantilevered post system to transfer wind loading onto stronger areas of soil. An extended design life was also a key requirement.

The GuardianWallTM system, utilising galvanised UB support columns, was deemed suitable for this project. A unique GuardianWallTM solution was quickly designed and fabricated by Modular Wall SystemsTM to ensure the residents were not exposed to construction noise. The requirement for the top of the wall to meet specific height Reference Levels imposed by Fairfield City Council resulted in significant challenges when completing the footing foundations. However, persistence and ingenuity resulted in a fully compliant project. The final GuardianWallTM design was 1.5m – 3.0m high and 76.4m long, comprising of 29 individual cantilevered posts and AcoustiMax™ 75 panels which exceeded the required 20+RW (Weighted Sound Reduction Index) acoustic, subtle values. A final lick of paint resulted in a highly professional and subtle practical noise barrier with 40+ year design life.

Dan Murphy’s Tweed Head South, NSW

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Installation of an acoustic fence was required for development consent to be successfully sought for an existing Tavern and construction of a new Dan Murphy’s Liquor store. The acoustic fence required installation along the boundary of a new car park to shield adjoining residential properties from noise generated during the standard operation of the new commercial facility.

Space limitations due to the construction of a new retaining wall inside the site boundary meant Rohrig Constructions required an all-encompassing fence solution that could be:

  1. Mounted to the top of the new and existing retaining wall;
  2. Was of the highest acoustic integrity, shielding residential properties; and
  3. Offered premium aesthetics, and blended into the landscape.

Modular Wall Systems provided a structurally certified solution utilising their acoustically rated, next generation fence – SlimWall. The unique, patented high tensile steel post system enabled installation into the retaining wall via core-drilling holes and fixing the posts in place using non-shrink grout. The remaining run of wall was installed into the ground using concrete pile foundation in a narrow space between the kerb and the site boundary.

SlimWall next generation fencing uses the AcoustiMaxTM 50mm panels, which has a surface density of 14.5kg/m2 and rated at RW25, and is completely continuous with no gaps or openings enabling maximum acoustic integrity for the life of the product. The SlimWall fencing solution was painted upon completion of installation to complement the overall aesthetic of the building design for a fully integrated next generation finish.

Recreate the look of a masonry boundary wall or fence for half the cost of bricks

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The front wall is often one of the first features of a home to be noticed. Not only does it provide a feature boundary wall, but it distinguishes the home from others, accentuating the property’s character and charm. While a rendered masonry wall can add instant value to a home, bricks are expensive, a messy process and render can be prone to cracking.

Recently, with the surge in demand for bricks and the increasing cost of bricklayers, many homeowners are looking to alternative fencing solutions, like Modular Wall Systems™, to emulate the look of masonry rendered walls. This saves renovators from dealing with the high costs and hassles associated with brick construction, and can eliminate the need to apply for council approval.

Modular Wall Systems™ is not only faster, easier and less expensive to install, but visually provides the same high-end appearance when compared to a traditional masonry wall. Furthermore it also comes with the added acoustic benefit of a 20+dB reduction in audible noise. The modern modular post and panel system can be installed in a matter of days and requires no strip footings, specialised skills or heavy machinery. The rock solid panel structure will not rot, dent, warp or corrode and is so deceptively strong that no one would ever guess the fence was engineered from lightweight composite fibre cement panels.

The grand visual appeal associated with brick rendered walls can be recreated with Modular Wall Systems™ using a range of stylish designs including grand EstateWall™, the most cost effective TrendWall™ or the popular VogueWall™. Each will integrate perfectly with the architectural integrity of any home and additional designer touches such as slats, infills, gates and letterboxes or wiring for lighting, sound and security systems can be easily incorporated. Various finishing treatments or paint is then applied. The brick masonry look is created by using textured paint for a fraction of the cost of traditional cement render.

Retaining walls for sloping or stepped sites, planter boxes or for unusual situations where the fence needs to retain its base panel can also be addressed using the Modular Wall Systems™ integrated and reinforced retaining panel, TerraFirm™ 75, which will maintain the look of the fence on both sides whilst retaining up to 750mm of soil. This eliminates the need to build an expensive retaining wall, which can look out of place when a fence is mounted on top of it.

Homes today have become a reflection of our lifestyle and modern-day living demands alternatives to traditional building materials. Modular Wall Systems™ is a new generation solution for walls and fences that is 100 per cent Australian made and manufactured. With a reputation for quality and innovation, Modular Wall Systems™ has changed the way residential walls are built. For more information on the complete range of masonry look fencing and wall solutions at Modular Wall Systems™ call on 1300 556 957 or visit www.modularwallsystems.com.au.

Important considerations for creating a safe and stunning poolside fence

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Designing an idyllic recreation and entertaining setting around your pool can add value to your property and deliver many lifestyle benefits. Yet the pool design itself is just one of several elements that need to be considered when planning an outdoor oasis. Fencing, paving, tiling and landscaping are all equally important and should not be tacked on as an afterthought. Installing a high quality, architectural style boundary fence will offset the pool area beautifully and be the perfect backdrop for furniture, plants and other elements such as an outdoor kitchen for alfresco dining.

When deciding on a poolside fence, consider the style of fence to ensure it complements the home and garden. An architectural style boundary fence like SlimWall by Modular Wall Systems allows the fence to be customised so it blends in with your home’s overall design and the pool is showcased to its full effect. To achieve this you may need to replace the existing boundary fence.

Most pressing when it comes to pool fencing is making sure that the fence complies with the strict council laws that govern the installation of pool fences. Regardless of whether the fence sits on the boundary or is freestanding, compliance is mandatory. At a minimum, the fence must be 1.8 metres high from the pool coping or 1.2 metres high around the freestanding pool perimeter. Choosing a product like SlimWall for the boundary area will not only exceed the minimum height requirement imposed by councils, but will also have a smooth non-climbable surface with no ‘good’ and ‘bad’ side. This is an important consideration as, by law, the ‘good’ non-climbable side of a timber fence must face the neighbouring property thus leaving pool owners with an unappealing look around their swimming and entertaining area. With SlimWall there is no such issue.

Pool fences can also be susceptible to excessive moisture which is why the durability and performance of the fencing product you select is another important consideration. The impact of a beautifully landscaped pool can be quickly diminished by rotting timber or buckling metal. SlimWall™ is a composite panel product made from strong fibre cement sheeting that will withstand the test of time and comes with the added benefit of brilliant acoustic qualities.

The poolside noise often generated by young families or visiting friends can impact on the neighbours. SlimWall incorporates AcoustiMax panels which have proven noise barrier qualities that deliver a 20dB+ or four fold audible reduction in noise levels making it a great choice for those conscious of not disturbing the neighbours – and it also means you are less likely to hear their noise as well.

Modular Wall Systems, manufacturer of SlimWall, has been partnering with pool builders and residential home owners for more than twenty years and understands the value of a safe and sensationally styled fence for pool zones. For further information and advice about acoustic fencing solutions call Modular Wall Systems on 1300 556 957 or visit www.slimwall.com.au.

AcoustiSorb™ – The perfect sound absorbing acoustic solution

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Where commercial development collides with residential dwellings, noise is fast becoming one of the most contentious environmental problems in urban areas worldwide. Local councils across Australia have begun to impose strict acoustic guidelines for all new residential, commercial and Industrial developments.

As the leading manufacturers of cost-effective acoustic and boundary walls, Modular Wall Systems™ have the only sound absorbing product in the market – AcoustiSorb™.

The AcoustiSorb™ panels were designed with a perforated face to absorb sound waves within its core material, resulting in an NRC rating > 0.9. With a panel span that can reach 3 metres high, the lightweight yet robust construction of the panels are perfect for numerous noise abatement solutions. So there is no requirement for painting following installation the panels are pre finished in the highly versatile surf mist colour or galvanised.

For further information, contact 1300 556 957 or visit www.modularwalls.com.au

How quality fencing can improve the value of a property

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Many factors can impact the sale price of a property but the price people will pay for privacy and security is often underestimated. A quality fence can be a valuable selling point, particularly as more homes are being built closer and closer to boundaries.

Before putting a home onto the market, homeowners should consider the property’s perimeter to ensure the boundary fence is adding rather than detracting from the home’s overall look. A well maintained backyard fence is particularly important if the property backs onto a busy road or if a neighbouring property is an eyesore.

Nick Holden, Founder of Modular Wall Systems and SlimWall™ advises homeowners not to overlook the value of a fence. “Adding an aesthetically stylish boundary fence may add thousands of dollars to a property and could even lead to a quicker sale. A solid, high fence with proven acoustic benefits is also a sought after feature by parents with noisy young children or those with pets.”

When selecting a fencing product, consider the property’s surrounding environment for things like urban noise which can be addressed with clever fencing solutions. SlimWall™ by Modular Wall Systems features proven noise reduction qualities that can block residential noise. Importantly, it doesn’t crack or rot which minimises ongoing maintenance.

SlimWall™ is a designer fencing solution that can perfectly match the architectural integrity of any home. Adaptable for level or sloping sites, it can be customised with a host of finishes, decorative slats, gates, letterboxes and lighting for a stylish modern look. As a boundary solution, it provides a high quality backdrop to pools and outdoor entertaining areas, perfectly complementing indoor outdoor living. A SlimWall™ fence can also be painted in any colour, including a tone that matches the home. Neighbours can paint their side a different colour to match their house. SlimWall™ fence may also be finished with a textured paint, such as Dulux AcraTex Sand that delivers a fine grain, rendered effect.

The investment in a quality fence will pay dividends if it enhances the home’s appearance and the seclusion and privacy it can create can be an appealing selling point that will help increase the value of any home.

For further information, contact Modular Wall Systems on 1300 556 957 or visit www.slimwall.com.au