Queenscliff

Residential Building

Project Value: $200,000
Status: In progress
Duration: 4 months

Dukes is currently working on an extensive external repair and repaint of a residential building overlooking Queenscliff Beach, scheduled over a four-month delivery window.

Worker fixing the exterior features of a residential building

Project Overview

For this project, careful planning has been pivotal to allow for weather delays and ensure minimal disruption to building residents.

The scope includes concrete spalling and render repairs to restore surface integrity, sealing of balcony tiles to protect from water ingress, and a full façade repaint using a high-build protective system designed for coastal conditions.

Beyond restoring the exterior and balconies, the aim is to improve the building’s resilience to salt, wind and moisture. For the owners, long-term asset protection and a sharper, more durable finish were the key priorities.

Access methods

Given the coastal exposure of the site and its multi-level elevation, we opted for rope access to complete the painting and remedial works. By doing this, we reduced cost, minimised disruption, preserved resident amenity and ocean views and enabled technicians efficient access to all parts of the façade, even hard-to-reach areas.

Side view of an exterior features of a residential building

Challenges

The location presented various technical and environmental challenges and complexities, including:

  • Extreme exposure – salt spray, high winds, and moisture had all accelerated concrete degradation.
  • Weather variability – Delivery requires flexible programming to work around rain, heat and high winds, as they cause regular delays.
  • Access vs durability – We needed to strike the right balance between managing access costs and delivering high-quality repair and coating outcomes. Preserving ocean views while carrying out safe, thorough work meant sequencing and coordination had to be carefully planned from the outset.
  • Complex concrete repairs – Once works began, it became clear the deterioration was more extensive than expected. We carried out staged assessments and ongoing diagnostics to guide the repair approach, working closely with stakeholders to deliver the right outcome without pushing the project over budget.

“Owners have expressed confidence in Dukes’ delivery, appreciating the clear communication, adherence to budget and our proactive handling of complex repairs.”

Project sentiment

Despite a challenging environment, the project has progressed smoothly. Owners have expressed confidence in Dukes’ delivery, and as the project progresses, they’re appreciating the clear communication, adherence to budget and our proactive handling of complex repairs.

Budget planning and expectation management

Before contract award, Dukes’ sales and operations teams collaborated to provide a detailed, realistic repair forecast that was far more comprehensive than competing quotes. While initially priced higher, our proposal reflected the true extent of likely remedial works, and even anticipated the extent of concrete repairs uncovered post-preparation..

This approach gave owners the confidence to proceed, knowing the project was scoped thoroughly and the budget was aligned to quality outcomes. As works progress, this foresight continues to pay off—allowing emerging repair needs to be addressed without cost overruns.

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Communication

Communication has been a strong point throughout the project, helping to support smooth delivery. A comprehensive pre-start meeting brought all stakeholders into alignment, while ongoing site meetings have guided owner decisions around repairs and materials. Regular updates, progress photos and repair documentation have kept everyone informed and confident as works continue.

Coating systems

Dukes applied the Dulux Acratex system, combining AcraPrime and Acrashield for maximum durability in harsh coastal settings.

  • AcraPrime: High-performance primer that seals surfaces and promotes adhesion.
  • Acrashield: Flexible, UV-stable membrane that resists salt, cracking and weather damage.

Project Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Dukes minimise disruption for residents during a repaint or remedial project?

We carefully sequence works, use low-impact access methods like rope access, and maintain clear, ongoing communication with residents and building managers.

What access options do you offer for hard-to-reach or occupied sites?

We own our equipment and can tailor access to each site, including rope access, EWPs and scaffold, balancing safety, cost, and resident amenity, which is especially important in live environments.

Can you help us scope and budget a project if we’re unsure of the full extent of repairs?

Yes — our operations and estimating teams can provide a detailed forecast that anticipates hidden damage and gives you a clear, realistic picture upfront.

How do you manage quality without blowing the budget?

We work closely with stakeholders to plan ahead, respond quickly to site conditions, and adapt without compromising on repair standards or coating systems.

What makes your approach suitable for strata and shared residential buildings?

We understand the sensitivities of working in occupied spaces, from safety and access to resident communication, and we plan accordingly from day one.

What coating systems do you use for coastal or high-wear buildings?

We specify high-performance, surface-specific systems like Dulux Acratex, selected for long-term protection against salt, moisture and UV exposure.

Why Choose Dukes

Safety
First

Dukes’ comprehensive, externally audited safety system ensures strict adherence to WHS standards, protecting residents and our team.

Regulatory
Compliance

Our work meets aged care safety, access, and compliance standards, ensuring full regulatory alignment and peace of mind.

Clear
Communication

Residents and staff receive timely updates, detailed notices, and progress reports to stay fully informed throughout the project.

Resident
Respect

We minimise noise, respect personal spaces, and adapt schedules to suit residents’ needs for a stress-free experience.

Uncompromising
Quality

Expert teams deliver durable finishes, regular quality checks, and warranties for long-lasting results.

Are you ready to protect or enhance your retirement living or aged care facility? For transformative commercial painting and remediation solutions, contact the experienced team at Dukes today.