As Australians seek sustainable building materials that offer multiple benefits, Durra Panel is emerging as a favoured choice among residential architects and owner-builders. This innovative product stands out for its impressive acoustic, thermal, and fire-resistant properties, all while being a genuine cradle-to-cradle building material.
This unique blend of benefits caught the attention of Ross and Cathy Elliot, who chose Durra Panel to line the ceiling of their sustainable family retreat in the picturesque Fish Creek area of South Gippsland, Victoria. Their innovative project was recently featured in Season 11 of Grand Designs Australia, showcasing how Durra Panel can enhance functionality in sustainable architecture.
In a particularly captivating segment of the episode, Derek Layfield conducted a fire resistance test on Durra Panel which highlighted its remarkable safety features. Host Anthony Burke was impressed as the strawboard charred under an intense 3000-degree flame but failed to ignite or transfer heat to the other side, allowing Ross’s son James to place his hand comfortably against the panel displaying an extraordinary level of protection.
Durra Panels’ remarkable performance can be attributed to the unique carbonising effect of the straw when exposed to flames. As the straw carbonises, it creates a protective layer that effectively inhibits fire penetration into the densely compressed core of the panels. What distinguishes Durra Panel is not just its fire resistance but also its excellent safety profile. As a natural product it emits no toxic fumes, no flaming droplets and no dense smoke when exposed to fire, making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious builders who prioritise both safety and sustainability.
In addition to its fire-resistant properties, Durra Panel excels in acoustic and thermal insulation. The dense composition of the panels provides excellent soundproofing creating a tranquil indoor environment. Additionally, the thermal performance of Durra Panel contributes to energy efficiency by maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures year-round reducing reliance on heating and cooling systems.
For those interested in sustainable building practices, the Elliot family’s project is a captivating case study. Their home reflects the future of architecture; one where functionality, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility are harmoniously connected.
You can watch Season 11, Episode 2 of Grand Designs Australia on ABC iView now.
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