There is an inherent charm to timber-framed windows due to the proportions of the frame. There are lots of different styles of aluminium windows, but most of them do not have the same proportions - they usually have a much thinner frame, and often look cheap and flimsy. The other problem with most aluminium windows is that they conduct heat and cold which usually negates the benefits of double glazing. If you are firm about going with aluminium windows then consider thermally broken window frames, which have better proportions and don't transfer the heat or cold through the frames. They don't look cheap, as they are not! Also check out the hybrid windows which are powder-coated aluminium on the outside and timber on the inside. https://www.miglas.com.au/aliclad If budget is an issue and it doesn't stretch to thermally-broken aluminium of hybrid timber/aluminium windows then go with timber for the warmth and character. Never go with cheap, flimsy looking aluminium frames when trying to be consistent with a period home. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

We have recently purchased a rental house in Tewantin QLD. At the moment there is timber flooring in the lounge room, tiles in entrance/kitchen/dining are, different tiles in the bathrooms and carpet in the bedrooms. I like carpet in the bedrooms, so would be happy to replace with something a bit more modern. I think tiles throughout would be the best option but then I have to have the same tiles in the lounge room and the bathroom and I definitely would not pick lounge room looking tiles for a bathroom. My only other thought was a resin floor (terratzo look but not full on) for the living areas and then tiles in the bathroom. We have dogs in our homes and our timber floorboards have not stood up well, so I don't think it would be suitable in a rental property. Would like to see photos of anyone who has done different tiles next to each other and it looks good. Also thoughts on resin flooring?

I'm frustrated trying to find a reliable flooring company to lay engineered and laminate flooring in our home we are building in the Southern Highlands. We planning to lay a mixture of engineered timber flooring and laminate flooring to living areas and bedrooms. Can anyone recommend a reliable installation company (I realise that most of them supply as well, but I'm confident about the product we want so, to me, the installation component is the most important) ? I've visited many but it's impossible to know what they are really like and the review-sites are almost worthless. Also, the ones from whom I've asked for quotes so far can't even be bothered replying. Not a great indication of service. Any recommendations? I'd also consider an install-only tradie.

I agree that it can be upsetting at this stage but your timber will all darken naturally and the difference will become less obvious over time and once you have furniture and rugs in place it's likely to be one of those issues that only you and no one else will notice. And I defy anyone to not have something like this in their house which has been newly built/renovated. I know this isn't terribly helpful but I don't think ripping anything up to start again or going to great lengths to seek recompense from supplier/installer is going to help your blood pressure either (by all means raise concerns with them and ask for suggestions from them).