This last section of external area demonstrates a number of systems. At ground floor level you can observe another rainscreen façade system, this time in the form of a lightweight brick finish. As with all previous façade systems, this display features the rainscreen, ventilated cavity, vapour permeable membrane, fire protective plasterboard, and finally timber structure and non-combustible insulation. Of particular interest at this level is the façade finish, the Corium system available from PGH Bricks. This system allows for the prefabrication of brick façades on a panel housed in a safe, weather protected warehouse environment, which can then be delivered to site, installed, and joints “stitched” with remaining bricks. While there are several prefabricated brick façade systems available for use with timber, the specific product seen here is structurally robust, and is suitable for use up to 30 storeys.

Immediately above this brick finish we can see a full fill solid timber cavity barrier. Note that this would normally be covered by the façade cladding, but we have chosen to reveal it here of display purposes only. This performs the same function as all other cavity barriers identified however as a “full fill” barrier this requires no heat to activate – it fully fills the cavity in its natural state. With this in mind, it is important to note that full fill cavity barriers in facades must be flashed, and any moisture within the cavity must be able to drain out over the barrier. Again, cavity barriers are not required in all designs, so make sure to talk to your fire engineer or building surveyor about what is and isn’t required.

Above this cavity barrier you can see the external side of a solid balustrade featuring the James Hardie ExoTec system. This will be discussed further once we reach that station upstairs. The next station on this audio guide is located within the finished room on the ground floor of the structure – walk around there when you’re ready to continue the tour.