With a combined working history spanning more than half a century in the building industry, Arja and Ari Suomalainen know how to bring homes to life with unique materials.
The couple have recently introduced Outback Sleepers into their already extensive range of building and landscaping supplies at Buildpro Geelong.
The durable concrete sleepers are perfect for outdoor areas requiring a heavy-duty solution where other products are just not suitable, Arja says.
“You can get the timber look without the timber issues, and smooth and textured sleepers are also available for a really nice, clean finish.”
Already the sleepers, which are engineered to stack up to 4m high, are proving popular among home builders along the Surf Coast , Arja says.
Also new to Buildpro, is a new range of porcelain pavers inspired by the beaches of Sydney.
While made from durable porcelain, the pavers actually look like wood, Arja explains.
The pavers are the “ideal look for our coastal location” and perfect for pools, entertainment areas, walkways and stepping stones, she says.
They have already caught the eye of several developers browsing the store, Arja says.
“They’re just stunning! I haven’t been as excited about a product as I am about these.”The tiles are available in three sizes and four colours and are on display at Buildpro’s Grovedale store.
Buildpro has also added the multi-award-winning Krause Bricks to its range.
A third-generation family business spanning 70 years, Krause Bricks has a variety of textures and colours to suit walls of all types.
When it comes to cleaning and sealing brickwork and paving, Buildpro stocks GuardIt’s environmentally-friendly and safe range of cleaners and sealers, including Green Acid Replacement.
Green Acid Replacement is a safe alternative to harsh acids in the removal of cement and mortar residue from a range of building materials, Arja explains.
“We’re also local suppliers of Solutions Sealants and Mapei adhesives and grouts,“ she says.
Buildpro Geelong has all your decking, cladding and screening needs covered with NewTechWood’s composite range made from 95 per cent recycled materials, including high-grade plastic and reclaimed wood fibres.
The product has a 25-year limited warranty and is low maintenance, requiring no oiling or painting.
Arja and Ari opened their Grovedale store, Geelong’s first Buildpro franchise, with co-owner David Hazle last June.
Ari was an architectural draftsman and brick sales manager for 30 years before joining Buildpro, while Arja had worked in the local building industry for 23 years.
“Buildpro are probably the most professional building and landscape supplier that I’ve ever seen and worked with,” Ari says.
“They’ve got great buying power and an excellent supplier network.”
The one-stop-shop for landscaping and building supplies is open 8am to 5pm Monday to Thursday, 8am to 4.30pm on Friday and 9.30am to 12pm on Saturday.
