Timber iQ April / May 2016 | Issue: 25

ISSN 2305-9648

April - May 2016 // Issue: 25 // Price: R40,00 incl.

Design & Construction

RUBIO EASYBONDA UNIVERSAL PARQUET ADHESIVE

All New !!

WHAT IS IT?Rubio Easybond is a new generation of single component parquet adhesive based on silane polymer technology. This parquet adhesive contains no plasticizers and is hard elastic – two characteristics that result in a durable parquet adhesive.

NO VOC: No isocyanates - very easy to remove from the empty bucket.

SUPERIOR RHEOLOGY: The adhesive strips remain upright and are very easy to spread with a glue spreader.

FAST AND DURABLE HARDENING: The parquet can be sanded after 12 hours and that can save you a lot of time.

LASTING SOUND INSULATION

NO DAMAGE OF THE FINISHING

Rubio Easybond is also available in a 290ml cartridge for gluing skirting boards, sealing seams around heating pipes, door frames, doorsteps, tiles etc

Consult the technical data sheet for more information.

The adhesive is universally applicable and suitable for almost all wood types and substrates, including Solid and Engineered parquet as well as sub parquet, end grain wood, cork and other challenging wood types. It contains no softening agents but has a high polymer content making the adhesive harder and durable with greater adhesive capacity. This composition does not change therefore there is no risk of premature ageing. This makes the parquet adhesive extremely suitable for underfl oor heating.

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South AfricaDistributors in Africa,

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RUBIO MONOCOAT OIL:WOOD PROTECTION BASED ON MOLECULAR BONDING TECHNOLOGY

Rubio Monocoat oils are based on an innovative technology that both colours and protects the wood via molecular binding with the topmost wood grains in ONE SINGLE LAYER. Used for DIY, Interior Decor and Design as well as for on-site and industrial purposes. The extensive assortment is the answer to wood protection.

Durable colour and protection of the wood in one single layer.Economical!The fi rst and only oil in the world that doesn’t contain VOCs or waterVery easy to apply and maintain.Can be applied to all types of wood.A great selection of over 40 colours to choose from.Minimal use: 30 - 50 m²/litre.Water-resistant, ideal for kitchens, bathrooms and furniture.Heat-resistant. A short ‘dry’ maintenance period.

[email protected] www.tradelink-group.comDURBAN: 031 700 3208 CAPE TOWN: 021 951 1090

Direct importers of quality hardwoods from around the world. We stock a wide variety of decking, plywood, structural, flooring and timber products. Extensive stocks held with fast and efficient delivery available countrywide. Tradelink is an international group that has a network of Procurement offices which enables us to ensure high quality prior to shipment.

TradelinkWood Products (PTY) LTD

2 Thermo Road Triangle Farm Stikland Cape Town

021 945 2731 [email protected] www.swisslinedesign.co.za

ECO FRIENDLY MANUFACTURED IN CAPE TOWN DELIVERED TO YOU

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EDITOR'S NOTE

CONTRIBUTORS & EVENTS

TIMBER CLADDING - SOUND DESIGN

COVER STORY - UNI-CAM SOUTH AFRICA

6TH WOOD CONFERENCE FEEDBACK

CMC COMPANY NEWS - CMC GROUP MILESTONE

CROSS-LAMINATED TIMBER - CLT 'S POTENTIAL

BUILDING ENERGY MODELLING - HOUT BAY HOUSE

OUTDOOR FURNITURE - PET

DECKING SCREWS - USING THE RIGHT SCREW

TIMBER ROOF STRUCTURES - MITEK TOP-HAT PROFILES

CLAMPING TOOLS - AUTO-ADJUST CLAMPING TECHNOLOGY

FLOORING - SAWLFA

VINYL FLOORING - ULTRA-REALISTIC DESIGNS

WOOD TREATMENT - TANALISED® E TREATMENT PLANT

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT - WOOD-MIZER

PROJECT FEATURE - ROOFTEK TRUSSES

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CONTENTS

THATCH - TASA TURNS 10

DOORS - HOBBIT DOOR

TIMBER DÉCOR - MINIMA IN 2016

DOORS - FINDOOR SKINS

DOORS - CURRENT TRENDS

TIMBER PROFILE - BOLDLY BALAU

CASE STUDY - NATURAL MATERIALS FOR HEALTHY LIVING

TIMBER INTERIOR - NEW LOOK FOR OLD MUTUAL

FORESTRY RESEARCH - CYBERFORESTS

FORESTRY PROGRAMME - KNYSNA FORESTS

FORESTRY BY-PRODUCTS - SMALL-DIAMETER LOGS

SUSTAINABLE BUILDING - GOING GREEN, STAYING GREEN

TREE STUDY - INDIGENOUS TREES

TIMBER CONSTRUCTION - SMALL HOUSE. BIG HEART.

WOOD ART - r1.

BAMBOO DECKING - SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVE

INDUSTRY EVENT - WOODEX FOR AFRICA 2016

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Jax Oleum is incredibly effective, highly durable, it enhances the grain and transforms the look of any natural wood.

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It was while reading a woodworking newsletter the other day that I became inspired to share the essence of what the author was communicating. Paul Epp, a

professor at OCAD University in Toronto, Ontario and former chairman of its Industrial Design Department, was describing the smell of freshly cut wood. I was moved by the intensity and sincerity of his words as he explained how the strangely compelling smell sometimes strikes him with particular force, effortlessly transporting him to a place of pleasant reverie. He wrote, “We know our woods as well by their smell as by their appearance. Sometimes even better.” I’m sure there are many readers who can identify with the sort-of-sour smell of oak, the sweeter smell of cherry, or the clean smell of maple.

Then there is the feel of wood in our hands. “Its heft. We anticipate it and adjust ourselves accordingly. A lot of how we judge our work is through our fingers. We feel what we do, appraising our results. Smooth enough? Plane enough? Sometimes we stroke what we have made, unconsciously, just for the sheer pleasure of it...Fingers are busy, verifying or contradicting what we see...we affirm our appreciation for what we like by touching it.” Well said.

He likes, very much, to look at wood – its figure, its grain, the curls, the blisters, the parallel rows, and the diversity of its colour captured in companion hues of reds and yellows and whites and blacks and golds and greens. (Saying that wood is brown is “a very superficial and unfair appraisal.”) And, he likes to taste wood. He unashamedly admits that he might lick the wood before it’s been finished, to reveal its colour.

He also shared how he actively listens for the sound that wood makes when you work with it – the different sound the short grain makes when passing through the planer, those sounds that reveal a crack, and the swish of the blades that creates its own song.

Here at Timber iQ we’re all about wood, but we don’t often enough get to work with it. So, to read this unpretentious ode to wood made me a little envious. Envious of how the smell, look, touch and taste of wood can evoke the best of the author’s senses and take him on a happy journey back to all the places he had worked with wood before – from the woods to sawmills, from cabinet shops to large factories and wood merchant yards. And all the while, he relives some wonderful memories.

Coincidentally, the ‘artisans of emotional technology’ at Orée also recently asked, What does wood smell like? They answered at the same time that their whole world revolves around the sound, the smell and the touch of natural materials. “Sometimes we can even taste the wood in the air at the workshop.” Lucky them. And lucky us, to be able to share in this packed edition of Timber iQ, a feast of features that prove just how important a role wood plays in our lives.

Until next time, I hope that you, too, can get up close and personal with the wonder that is wood.

Celéste

When wood gets personal What is it about wood that makes those fortunate enough to work with it, so passionate about it? I love hearing why people choose wood, and why they love it. As I've learned, it can get very personal.

EDITOR'S NOTE

DO YOU HAVE A GREAT PROJECT OR STORY TO SHARE WITH TIMBER iQ READERS? Send your article and high resolution images to [email protected] or call 0861 727 663 for more information.

YOUR PRINT MEDIA PARTNER OF CHOICE, SUPPORTING LOCAL TRADE.

CONTACT US: [email protected] / 0861 727 663 / www.trademax.co.za

The PerfectSense collections are a range of high-gloss and matt decor boards in premium designs. PerfectSense Gloss has a real mirror finish with a tough, smooth and flawless surface, and clearly stands out among other high-gloss surfaces.Order your sample now at [email protected].

Not all gloss is the same … time to reflect on your choice?

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UPCOMING EVENTSAFRICAN CONSTRUCTION EXPO10 - 11 MAY 2016, GALLAGHER CONVENTION CENTRE, MIDRAND, JHBVisit www.construction-week.com for more info

WOODEX FOR AFRICA 9 - 11 JUNE 2016, GALLAGHER CONVENTION CENTRE, MIDRAND, JHB Visit www.woodexforafrica.com for more info

CAPE CONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE & TRADE EXPO11 - 12 AUGUST 2016, CTICC, CAPE TOWNVisit www.cape-construction.co.za for more info

CONTRIBUTORS & EVENTS

CONTRIBUTORS THE TEAM

EDITOR: Celéste Perrin [email protected]

PUBLISHER: Billy Perrin [email protected] 082 266 6976

ADVERTISING: Angeline Martin [email protected]

LAYOUT & DESIGN: Craig Patterson [email protected]

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Belinda Thwesha [email protected]

TRADEMAX PUBLICATIONS

Tel: 0861 727 663Fax: 0866 991 346www.trademax.co.zaPostnet Suite 241 Private Bag X103 N1 City 7463

DISCLAIMER The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of Trademax Publications. Although we have done our best to ensure the accuracy of our content, neither Trademax Publications nor Timber iQ magazine will be held liable for any views expressed or information disseminated, in editorial content or advertisements, in this issue.

JOHAN NEL Johan Nel’s interest in woodworking began on his tenth birthday when his grandmother gave him a toolbox and some basic hand tools. In his words, after that, “there was no turning back.” After gaining 20-plus years’ experience in the woodworking industry, he moved to Knysna. That was 15 years ago, and since then he has built up an excellent reputation for his fine woodworking skills. Johan has an acute ability to conceptualize the needs of his clients and excels when working on unique and interesting projects. “If you can imagine

it, I can make it. I observe a piece of wood or log until it reveals its nature, and I can then see exactly what to do.”

He combines different materials to complement the different woods – from metals and glass to enamels and ceramics – creating stylish furniture, doors and heirloom pieces. Also practiced in marquetry, inlays and intarsia, he can create a most unique piece with one or all of these art forms. His work encompasses custom boxes, chess and backgammon sets, trophies, bespoke furniture, kitchens, staircases and bars, timber construction and more.

Three years ago, Johan was commissioned to design and make all the Hillclimb trophies for the popular annual Knysna Speed Festival, and he will again do so for the upcoming event. He is currently working in Hanover, a small Karoo town, busy designing and building a guest lodge comprising of a restaurant, conference centre, chapel, sauna and chalets, as well as all the furniture that will be required throughout. This is log building at its best, and the demands of the project are allowing him to express his creativity to its fullest extent.

STEPHANIE DYER Stephanie Dyer’s love for, and interest in wood, led to a career in wood science, working at the South African Forestry Research Institute and the CSIR, where she was involved in research on wood properties of indigenous and introduced species. She also provided a wood identification service at these institutes and, since relocating to Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal in 1998, she has continued with the service.

Stephanie lectured part-time at Pretoria Technikon for the National Diploma in Timber Technology and, more recently, on Forest Products and Processing at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg. Stephanie holds an MSc in Plant Anatomy and is a Professional Natural Scientist.

Be sure to get your copy of Southern African Wood/Suider-Afrikaanse Hout, an insightful, fully illustrated guide that reflects on the wood from 120 Southern African tree species, and which Stephanie co-authored. See page 90 for more details.

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10 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

WISA® Plywood– Efficiency Made Easy™

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WISA-Spruce is a light-weight multipurpose structural panel with very good strength and stability properties. WISA-Spruce is designed for structural load bearing applications such as roofing, flooring and wall sheathing.

WISA-Birch is a versatile product of high quality for various applications where an excellent strength to weight ratio is needed. Due to its light, smooth and even surface WISA-Birch offers an optimal base for different overlaying methods.

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TIMBER CLADDING

Sound design

TIMBER CLADDING

The driving concept behind this project was the research of sound and how it affects our perception of space. Here the architectural team shares how their approach succeeded in creating a space this family now cherishes as their ultimate home.

Photo credit: Bates Masi + Architects

TIMBER CLADDING

This home, Elizabeth II, won Interior Design Magazine’s Best of Year Award.

Too often, architecture fixates on the visual sense, with little regard for the other faculties of perception. The location of this

house, in the heart of a bustling resort town, demanded special consideration of the acoustic sense. Research in architectural acoustics drove the form, materials, and detail of the house, not only shielding the property from the sound of the village, but also manipulating interior details to create a unique acoustic character for the house – one that will instil lasting memories for the family and their guests.

The house is comprised of a series of parallel walls that provide layers of privacy and insulation from the sound of the village. The walls project beyond the living spaces and ascend in height – building from a human-scale wall at the entry, to a high wall along the centre of the house.

The walls diffract the sound waves moving past them, casting an acoustic shadow over the property to create a quiet outdoor gathering area.

The walls are built with insulated concrete forms: a wall assembly nearly 20 inches thick comprised of a poured concrete core that is continuous from footing to roof, wrapped in insulating foam that also serves as formwork during construction. These walls provide excellent thermal insulation and an extremely low sound transmission coefficient.

Due to the strength of their concrete cores, the walls act as structural beams, enabling them to span over the gathering space at the centre of the house and the covered deck.

TIMBER CLADDING

// APRIL / MAY 2016 15

BESPOKE FASTENERS

The custom stainless steel clips that attach the wide cedar board siding to the walls were designed to prolong the life of the siding. Traditional wood siding eventually fails because the natural expansion and contraction of the wood is constricted by the screws or nails that rigidly fasten it in place, slowly pulling out the fasteners or splitting the wood. These spring-like clips, however, hold the boards in tension against the house while allowing freedom for the natural movement of the wood.

Inside, variations of the clips are utilized as robe hooks, cabinet pulls, and as hinges for an adjustable sound baffle in the central gathering space. The hinges hang cedar boards in front of a felt panel with spaces between them. Sound waves pass through the gaps between the boards, are trapped behind them, and absorbed by the felt. The hinges allow the spacing of the boards to be adjusted so the room can be acoustically tuned for intimate gatherings or boisterous parties.

The stair is also tuned to create a subtle acoustic experience. The stair treads taper in thickness, changing the pitch of footfalls as one ascends from the wood shop in the basement past the main floor with public spaces, past the guest room and the master bedroom, and up to the children’s rooms on the upper floor.

The research of sound and how it affects our perception of space informed the details, materials, and form of the project. This approach to the design led to a richer and more meaningful home for the family.

Named Elizabeth II, this home won Interior Design Magazine’s ‘Best of Year’ award.

For more information, visit www.batesmasi.com.

TIMBER CLADDING

16 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

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Cutting new paths The team behind local South African machine manufacturer, UNI-CAM South Africa, is proud of the company's new ownership. With a renewed focus to exceed industry expectations, they are poised to bring their existing and new clients cutting-edge products to be rivalled only by their exceptional service.

UNI-CAM SA is conveniently based in the industrial hub of Montague Gardens just outside of Cape Town. A recent change in ownership has brought

about an enhanced focus on mainly industrial quality CNC routers for the wood, aluminium and plastics sectors.

Thanks to the support of fellow South African manufacturers, UNI-CAM SA is now in a position to offer an even wider variety of machines to the market.

The company has expanded its product line to include flatbed and rotary plasma units and is also looking into launching a low-cost router within the next few months. In addition to recently becoming distributors of the LMT Onsrud range of cutters, UNI-CAM SA has partnered with Hypertherm® for all their plasma cutting components. The overriding goal behind these extended business partnerships is to meet client expectations while maintaining the highest quality standards.

Having strategically injected new skills into the company with the appointment of three new directors, the team now boasts combined experience that includes industrial machine production, sales development and business development, as well as a financial background.

“We are very excited about the potential of our machines in South Africa. From a quality and cost perspective, we are well positioned to compete against imports from both the East and West,” says Venetta Dudley, the company’s Sales and Operations Director.

“Our discussions with potential business partners in South Africa's urban centres to sell and support our machines have been very rewarding. And our research and development experience is already paying dividends in terms of further improvements to machines that are already built to withstand Africa’s harsh operating environments,” she continues.

COVER STORY

// APRIL / MAY 2016 19

“Whilst we have a standard range of machines, we are open to assisting customers with their specific design needs. We consider customer satisfaction as paramount. As such, UNI-CAM SA is constantly working on new and innovative ways to deliver cutting-edge technology and design to the marketplace,” Venetta explains. “Our goal is to provide customers with courteous, professional service and ongoing technical support.”

COMMITTED

UNI-CAM SA is dedicated to manufacturing affordable CNC machines in South Africa. However, that is not where the company’s vision ends. The team is also committed to generating jobs and building and broadening the skills base that we, as a country, need to develop and retain.

“Buying local means supporting the South African economy and its people. And buying from UNI-CAM SA is an investment in top-quality machinery and committed after-sales support,” Venetta concludes.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

UNI-CAM South Africa(t) 087 702 6125(c) 079 593 0036(e) [email protected](w) www.uni-cam.co.za

COVER STORY

20 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

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6th Wood Conference another resounding success The 6th Wood Conference followed in previous years' tracks by again delivering important industry information across the timber sector, this year under the theme 'Wood promotes climate regulations.'

The Conference initiator, George Kuratle (Owner – KURATLE GROUP), expressed his satisfaction at the conclusion of the event. Organized primarily by Zaida

Davids from HWZ International SA, the 6th Wood Conference welcomed more than 440 participants on 15 February 2016.

Considering that the 1st Wood Conference in 2010 hosted 70 attendees, and that this was the first event over the last five years with an entrance fee, the response was a big success. The attendance figures denote increasing interest from members of the architectural, investment and public sectors, as well as political arenas, universities, design spheres, and of course the wood construction industry. The Wood Conference has established itself as one of the most important conferences in sustainable construction and green building concepts in South Africa.

THE SUSTAINABILITY FACTOR

Wood is a natural building material predestined to establish itself in sustainability. The wood technology and extensive know-how in wood construction allows us to realize multi-storey buildings in timber construction and/or hybrid construction. What is considered ‘construction of the future’ in Europe can become a reality in South Africa. There are only winners: society, workers and employers, the forest, the ground water, the air, the economy, the climate, the region and the country. Not only the financially well-off can create optimum structures with wood – it has all the right solutions for everyone. The beauty of it is that wood grows for free.

The Wood Conference is a neutral platform for the exchange of knowledge and ideas and the international exchange of information and networking.


// APRIL / MAY 2016 23


Featured in the foreground are the concepts of sustainability, ecologically valuable and energy-efficient construction, as well as new concepts and new designs. To demonstrate the feasibility of this building methodology, not only entrepreneurs but also key stakeholders from the research community as well as standards bodies are involved.

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

This year the Conference launched with an interactive workshop that saw audience questions answered by market partners. This was followed by highly engaging presentations, including speakers from Switzerland, and special guest speakers Max Renggli (CEO of Renggli AG) and Josef Hess (Vice Director, FOEN – Switzerland).

For the first time, the Bern University of Applied Sciences was a partner to the Conference, represented by Thomas Rohner (Professor - Timber Engineering and BIM and Head - Faculty of Wood). The international exchange between universities in South Africa and Switzerland is guaranteed by the CDC (Center for Development and Cooperation) and the invited universities in South Africa, namely UCT, SUN, UJ, CPUT, UKNZ, UP and NMMU. Already, there is a first batch of candidates interested in an exchange semester.

This year, the Wood Student Foundation (WSF) that was founded in 2011, can support a Master's thesis and a ‘kindergarten’ project. The Conference team has expressed extreme pride in the professional organization of the 6th Wood Conference, thanking their market partners for the support that made the event possible. This includes the HWZ employees in both Switzerland and South Africa who contributed to the success of the event.

SPEAKER HIGHLIGHTS

Thomas Rohner facilitated an interactive panel discussion that answered audience questions about wood’s fire resistance qualities, its sound insulation, acoustics, sustainability, price and life cycle, as well as new products available on the market. He successfully made the case that wood is a viable solution for what we can do to help mitigate climate change.

In his opening address, Roger Kuratle (Key Account Manager, KURATLE GROUP) reminded the audience of George Kuratle’s goal to realize this event to enable people to share their knowledge and experience in a common forum that would help grow the wood industry and thereby improve people’s quality of life. He furthermore welcomed all the guests, the speakers and the Swiss Consul General, with a special thanks to the event organizer, Zaida Davids (in collaboration with Thomas Rohner), for all the work that went into making the well facilitated Conference possible.

Thomas Rohner

Roger Kuratle

Peter Brown

Peggy Sithole

24 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

Bernadette Hunkeler Brown (the Consulate General of Switzerland) in her welcome address referred to the rich history of wood in Switzerland, and how deforestation has been halted through tremendous progress made by current producers. She emphasized the importance of green building and innovation and how wood plays its part as a sustainable building material. She thanked George Kuratle for his vision and for the consistency of the implementation of the Conference, leaving the audience with the call: “Let’s get inspired.”

Josef Hess vividly described the Swiss forestry and forest policy of the past, the present and the future, explaining how Switzerland is successfully exercising responsible forestry. He stressed the fundamental importance of the Conference not only for the timber industry and wood technologies, but also for policy making and measures for climate regulation, stating that life cycle results prove the benefits of using wood.

Thomas Hugo (Engineer - Greenplan SA), Melanie Blumentritt (PhD. Stellenbosch University – Dpt. Forest & Wood Science) and Eliška Oberhofnerová (Czech University – Dpt. Life Science) presented the research project ‘Hout Bay House.’ The house was constructed from NOVATOP CLT and PAVATEX insulation. The wall structures are monitored by means of sensors over several years, on temperature and humidity history, making it possible for the high efficiency of timber construction to be documented.

Peter Brown (Western Cape Regional Chairman of SAIAT - the SA Institute of Architectural Technologists) discussed the standards for energy efficiency and energy consumption in buildings and provided an overview of SANS19400-XA and the different ways in which to comply with these regulations.

Peggy Sithole (owner of Workplace & Entrepreneurship Talent Solutions) reiterated the extent to which people rely on wood for both shelter and food. She made an impassioned plea for improvements within the educational sphere so that the youth and women, within impoverished areas particularly, can receive proper skills training. She emphasized the importance and value of timber within communities, how wood technology can be utilized to ensure more architectural support for the material, and called on the timber industry to give greater exposure to these topics.

Max Renggli demonstrated modular home building and explained this as a key for the entry of wood in modern urban design, regardless of the size of objects – whether small units (modules R1 - R4) or the big buildings (free warehouse in Zurich). He concluded his presentation by noting, “The one who builds, bears responsibility - beyond today and beyond generations.”

The 6th Wood Conference organizers - Thomas Rohner, George Kuratle and Zaida Davids


// APRIL / MAY 2016 25

Dr Trynos Gumbo (Senior Lecturer and Coordinator - Town and Regional Planning Department, Faculty of Engineering, University of Johannesburg) spoke about the huge demand for housing and living spaces in South Africa, which corresponds to the social conditions throughout Africa. In the definition of housing and public buildings such as schools and municipal buildings, he stressed the importance of using wood as a renewable building material and the potential to apply wood building technology when it comes to developing human settlements in our country.

Schalk Kapp (Operating Partner, GEF Advisors Africa (Pty) Ltd) used four case studies to illustrate that high energy prices in Africa can be reduced if the mass of organic and sawmill by-products energy is obtained and well utilized. The objective is the reduction and the replacement of fossil fuels with energy from biomass.

Christian Balanche (CEO - Simonin sas) and Jannick Jahnke (Technical Sales – Simonin sas) presented the modern free-form structures of the French Pavilion - Milan. They explained the digital model in its emergence from engineering to press bed creation, to machine control.

Jacques Cronje (Owner - Jacques Cronje Timber Design) ended the conference with the presentation of ‘Wood Student Foundation – WSF’ which promotes the use of wood in all training courses and student projects.

There is a lot more to look forward to from the HWZ team: The 7th Wood Conference is already being planned and will take place on 28 February 2017, in Cape Town.

For more information, send an e-mail to Zaida Davids at [email protected].

PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK

Many thanks for a great conference. It was well organized...What would make the next conference even more interesting would be to have some in-depth information on the practical application of timber structures which we can then take back and apply in our practices. Perhaps a ‘virtual’ building of a house utilizing various materials and systems? – Julie Phillips

I would like to congratulate you on a beautifully organized conference. Certainly amongst the very best that I have attended. It was a pleasure all round. – Bruno de Robillard

It’s from my part not difficult to give you feedback about the 6th Wood Conference: As all the others – first class! Have already made a note for the 7th Conference next year. – Walter Brunner

Thank you again for the opportunity to attend this 2016 conference. As always it is most inspiring and informative and relevant, and everything was presented and organized in the most professional way possible. – Karinina Ingwersen

This event is for me the event of the year within the built industry, and I always look forward to attending. You have once again set a high standard in hosting an informative and worthwhile event. – S. Ahmed

Thank you for a fantastic event...We were inspired and learned a lot. – Shawn A Duncan.

The conference was well organized and presented, the speakers well clued-up with the latest technology; no short cuts. – Klaus Baumler

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26 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

CMC COMPANY NEWS

Significant milestone for CMC GroupIt is with great pleasure that the CMC Group announces the Taiwanese machinery presidency awarded to Michael Chang from Leadermac. This significant achievement is only awarded to members in recognition of outstanding global service and recognized achievements in this field.

In addition, this position also amplifies the remarkable marketing and exposure he has achieved for his country.

CEO and Founder of the CMC Group, Pieter Olivier, first started conducting business with the Leadermac team (formerly known as Shen Kuang) 35 years ago. The company started from humble beginnings and was headed by Mr Chang, Michael’s father, who also held the presidency at a later stage of his career. Mr Chang senior always believed in higher education and groomed Michael from an early age. He was schooled in Canada and went on to obtain his business degree. On his return to Taiwan, Michael started introducing western standards into the company.

These strategic changes paid off for Leadermac. Michael established and developed a detailed distribution network that, over time, started paying dividends – Leadermac as we know it today is widely recognized as the top brand for moulding machinery in the world.

The CMC Group is very proud of Michael, and the two companies’ relationship has progressed from strength to strength over the years.

In fact, every member of the Leadermac family, worldwide, loves and respects Michael and his family and is celebrating the achievement with him. He has always treated all of his distributors fairly, humbly, and with great respect – in good times and bad.

From the CMC Group to Michael Chang – a hearty congratulations!

NEW KZN OFFICE FOR CMC GROUP

The CMC Group is pleased to announce the grand opening of its new KwaZulu-Natal premises situated at 40 Moreland Drive, Redhill Industrial Park, Durban, to be celebrated from 10 May to 14 May 2016.

28 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

CMC COMPANY NEWS

The official opening of the building will take place on Friday, 13 May 2016, with Mr Gert Muijs from Robland attending as an honourable guest. All current as well as future customers are warmly invited to attend and meet the CMC Group team as well as many suppliers from across the globe.

Special invitations will be sent to all customers on the CMC Group database, and the CMC Group Durban office will be handling all RSVPs and correspondence.

NEW TECHNOLOGIES

Special prices on equipment and machinery in stock will be offered. The in-house show will also feature an introduction to new technology that will form part of the WoodEX for Africa expo in June, creating a great opportunity for decision makers and technical staff to see these machines in action.

In addition, the CMC Group is proud to introduce its new, dedicated Aluminium Division known as AluSmart Machinery (Pty) Ltd, with various products and services available nationwide.

AluSmart Machinery, with the backing and support of the CMC Group, will have trained staff and suppliers on hand to guide customers in this exciting field.

On the aluminium product range, an exciting new composite material wall saw from the Bala machinery company will be launched. This machine allows for flexibility between aluminium and woodworking products; this versatility enables the cutting of different types of full sheet panels. It will undoubtedly offer a different dimension to aluminium customers, as well as shopfitting and signage customers.

The CMC Group CEO and Founder, Pieter Olivier, has personally invited all interested parties to join in the event and visit the new head office branch in Durban. Attendance will not only be appreciated, it also promises to be beneficial to all.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO RSVP:

(t) 031 569 2645(e) [email protected](w) www.cmcmachinery.co.za

MANUFACTURER OF HIGH QUALITY SALIGNA / HARDWOOD DOORS

SALIGNA FLB DOORS

HARDWOODFLB DOORS

SALIGNA PANEL DOORS

HARDWOODPANEL DOORS

CONTACT : SJ BADENHORST

Rom 10:9. "If you confess with your mouth, ”JESUS IS LORD” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

Tel: +27 12 802 2012 | Fax: +27 86 509 7603 | Cell: +27 84 811 3439 | Email: [email protected] Physical Address: Africa Timber Marketing, Plot 365 Donkerhoek, R104 Road, Pretoria East | Web: www.atmdoors.co.za

SATAS CERTIFIED (SANS 545)SATAS – SOUTH AFRICAN TECHNICAL AUDITING SERVICE

SALIGNA BB DOORS

HARDWOODBB DOORS

At ATM our aim is to bring you premium quality doors at affordable prices

CROSS-LAMINATED TIMBER

How to achieve CLT's potential The long-awaited publication of the European product standard for cross-laminated timber (BS EN 16351:2015), together with the industry's increasing experience of cross-laminated timber (CLT) use in the United Kingdom, prompted TRADA to review its guidance for specifiers. This article focuses on structural principles.

TRADA (The Timber Research and Development Association) is an international membership organization dedicated to inspiring and informing

best practice design, specification and use of wood in the built environment and related fields.

TRADA has revised two Wood Information Sheets about CLT: ‘Introduction for specifiers’ and ‘Structural principles.’

Specifiers can be less reliant on manufacturer-specific information now that CLT must be CE marked.

Article courtesy of: TRADA

30 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

CROSS-LAMINATED TIMBER

As with any innovative construction material, it is essential that designers understand the technical possibilities and limitations of CLT, in order to realize its potential.

The information provided here focuses on structural principles.

• CLT panels may be joined using six key connection types. Connections are secured with self-drilling woodscrews of up to 400mm in length and proprietary mild steel angle plates. Modern proprietary connection systems are also commonly used, and specialist software may be necessary.

• Where designed for in-plane loading, for example in a floor plate transferring lateral forces to shear walls, or in shear walls resisting overturning, the connections between adjacent CLT panels must be capable of transmitting the shear forces at the panel interface.

• Where walls are bedded on concrete, sole plates are generally unnecessary unless there is a risk of standing water during construction. A sole plate could, however, help to position the wall panel.

• Connection details may need to accommodate hidden service runs. Pre-compressed foam tape may be inserted between adjacent panels to produce airtight joints.

• CLT has high dimensional stability, similar to plywood, and does not usually need movement joints. Deformation is related to the direction of the grain. Because the panels have boards running in two directions, there will always be at least one layer in either direction. An alternative would be to use top-hung open web joists to avoid the requirements for solid blocking beneath walls.

• The comparative frame shrinkage of a CLT structure, due to a change in moisture content, is much less than expected in a conventional timber frame structure. However, the effects of creep become significant above about 12 storeys, and must be considered in the detailing of claddings, linings and vertical runs of building services.

TRADA offers a wide range of wood information as well as member services to industry, and is currently working on a CLT handbook scheduled to be published later this year.

For more information, visit www.trada.co.uk.

// APRIL / MAY 2016 31

The Hout Bay House makes use of a highly insulated, lightweight façade. In order to test how this building performs, the temperature, humidity, and CO2 concentration levels are measured at select locations

throughout the building. As part of the research experiment, the wall insulation will be changed from 80mm in the first year to 120mm in the second year. The main goal of this research is to compare measured data with modelled data, and to optimize wall insulation thickness for the Cape Town climate region.

To gain a better understanding of building performance modelling, we asked Thomas Hugo, an engineer at Greenplan Consultants and a member of the Hout Bay House research team, some questions on this topic.

TIMBER iQ: What is building energy modelling and how does it benefit us?

HUGO: Building energy modelling is a scientific method used to predict the building’s energy requirements and thermal response to the prevailing climate. Modelling engineers use computers with state-of-the-art software to perform many sophisticated calculations in order to extract engineering parameters that describe building behaviour throughout a typical year. The results can then be analysed and used to inform the design, or solve an existing problem. Often, modelling helps us to select the ideal cost-benefit design for the building.

TIMBER iQ: What input data is normally required for the building energy model of a typical house?

HUGO: For a basic thermal model, we normally require: (1) Hourly weather data close to the site that covers a full year; (2) Drawings and geometry details to create a representative 3D energy model; (3) Thermal properties for walls, windows, the roof, etc. and (4) Details about the human activity and building use.

All these different inputs affect the heat transfer, resulting in a unique energy model. The level of detail required tends to vary between different projects, and more specific detail may be required depending on the complexity of the building design and the objective of the model.

Building energy modelling of Hout Bay House The unique and exciting Hout Bay House project has already been introduced in previous issues of Timber iQ. Those earlier articles looked at the technology of glued timber, solid wood construction, wood degradation, wood treatment, and future research at Hout Bay House. In this edition, we take a closer look at a specific chapter of this research, namely predictive thermal performance modelling.

Article by: Eliška Oberhofnerová (Eng) in collaboration with Thomas Hugo (M. Eng)

BUILDING ENERGY MODELLING

32 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

TIMBER iQ: What thermal or other parameters of the building are you able to estimate using building energy modelling?

HUGO: The output of modelling is mainly dependent on the level of detail of your building energy model, and the energy modelling software that is used.

In a typical thermal performance analysis of a house, we would normally analyse the following: room air temperature, surface temperature, thermal comfort (PMV), and heating and cooling electricity consumption. These parameters will highlight problematic areas, and suitable solutions can then be suggested and evaluated.

At Greenplan, we use DesignBuilder (EnergyPlus) software, arguably one of the most advanced building simulation software programs available today. The software can go down into astonishing detail, such as various physical and scientific parameters used in background calculations, or various performance parameters of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) components. The data can also be analysed at different levels of your model (i.e., a wall, a room, or the whole building). Often, however, we find that with modelling, less is more, provided you know what data you want to look at.

TIMBER iQ: What are the biggest differences in the thermal behaviour of Hout Bay House in comparison with typical South African houses?

HUGO: At this point we can only comment on the design differences, as the simulation and data collection is still in progress. In principle, the Hout Bay House has a lightweight structure with highly insulated walls, roof and windows. In South Africa it is typical to have a structure with thermal mass (brick walls) and much less insulation. The example in the table below shows a comparison of wall insulation. A higher R-Value represents better insulation.

However, keep in mind that thermal resistance is not the only important parameter. Thermal mass in walls delays the time for heat to penetrate a building and therefore works well in certain climates.

TIMBER iQ: What are the most significant parameters that influence the thermal properties of a building?

HUGO: All of the input data mentioned previously can have a significant effect under certain conditions.

Therefore, the best available data should be used. From the results one can determine the significance of different parameters.

Many of the input parameters are also relatively fixed; that is, they are significant yet unlikely to change. Examples may include site weather data, human activity, and sometimes the aesthetic design of the building. This leaves only certain parameters that can be changed to significantly improve a building’s performance. Normally these parameters include the envelope insulation, shading, the glass type, as well as passive heating and cooling strategies.

TIMBER iQ: Why is it important to get familiar with the thermal behaviour of a building?

HUGO: If a building is not well designed for its climate, occupants may experience thermally uncomfortable conditions. This means the building occupants can experience the building as either too hot or too cold at times. Ensuring thermal comfort inside buildings is crucial in extreme climates. In relatively mild climates, like many places in South Africa, thermal comfort conditions can be considered uncomfortable but bearable.

TIMBER iQ: What requirements for the thermal performance of buildings exist in South Africa?

HUGO: According to the National Building Regulations, new buildings and renovations to existing buildings need to comply with SANS10400-XA. The standard prescribes two alternative routes for compliance:

• A strict deemed-to-satisfy approach that lists various requirements for building design, OR

• Using a rational assessment that applies all the attributes of the proposed new building into one holistic energy model and then compares the result to a reference building model that adheres to the building regulations.

TIMBER iQ: Do you personally think the results of the research may influence the building sector in South Africa?

HUGO: I believe with positive results from the research this would be possible.

From a thermal and sustainability point of view, I believe the research will shed light on the performance of highly insulated lightweight buildings. The result of the research is likely to suggest a cost benefit trade-off, which may incentivize that these construction methods are considered for more buildings in South Africa.

Additional research may be required to extrapolate the results of the research to other climate regions in South Africa.

For more information, visit www.houtbayhouse.info.

BUILDING ENERGY MODELLING

WALL TYPES R-VALUE (m2K/W)

SA minimum requirement (SANS10400-XA) 0.35

SA typical brick cavity wall 0.70

Hout Bay House wall (84mm NOVATOP, 80mm Pavaterm-Combi insulation) 2.6

Hout Bay House wall (84 mm NOVATOP, 120mm Pavaterm-Combi insulation) 3.5

// APRIL / MAY 2016 33

OUTDOOR FURNITURE

PET Thailand design firm DEESAWAT introduces its latest offering, PET. This outdoor sofa was designed so that you can share it with your dog or cat.

The company’s R&D Director, Jirachai Tangkijngamwong, explained to Timber iQ the creative rationale behind this singular piece of

furniture, and why they specifically designed a space that a pet and human can share together.

Tangkijngamwong says that, in today’s world, the family pet is widely considered as not just an animal, but a member of the family. And yet, as far as interior and exterior design goes, the pet has largely not been a considered part of the theme. So, DEESAWAT decided to design a space that changes that. This singular sofa is their answer to using a separate sofa and dog/cat bed.

Conceptually, the PET module also allows for the unit’s functionality to be adjusted according to the lifestyle needs of the people (e.g., single, couple).

The timber materials are all in teakwood, and therefore PET does well indoors as well as outdoors. Its size is 1,940 x 980 x 2,000mm.

CONCEPT: Living with PETBRAND: DEESAWATCOLLECTION: Tiera with PETMORE INFORMATION: www.deesawat.com

34 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

SPAX Outdoor.For decking and garden.

■ The screw for wooden decks on aluminium is optimised for fixation on aluminium profiles thanks to its drill point and fixing thread

The two new SPAX products for decking:

■ The Bold decking screw with the decorative head is the ideal screw for wooden decks with visible fixation

SPAX – Decks on aluminium SPAX – Bold decking screw

Product test acc. to TN-Standard A75-S01

8

Made in Germ

any

TÜV NORD CERTGmbH

Faitsch Products20 van der Berg CrescentGants Centre- Strand 7140Tel.: 021 853 5101 · Fax: 021 855 3108info@fi xtec.co.za · www.fi xtec.co.za

Distributer for Southern Africa

Anz_Terrasse_A4_GB_ks2.indd 1 08.03.16 11:50

DECKING SCREWS

Using the right screw makes a differenceTaking time to research and select the right deck before you make that investment is important. But so is making sure that your deck will be securely fastened. SPAX, provider of screws specifically designed for decking, shares some pointers on how to go about it.

Most decks are still made of wood, with softwoods or hardwoods being the most commonly used in both the upper decking and the substructure parts.

For the substructure, aluminium profiles are also available on the market. When it comes to the ‘fixing’ or fastening system of timber decks, several requirements have to be met:

The deck fixing has to be strong and long-lasting, the fasteners must have a high corrosion resistance, the application must be secure, and the deck must ultimately be safe. In addition, the system must be easy to assemble and disassemble, and of course it must be pleasing to the eye.

Screw connections are the standard within the deck building sector and continue to provide a very reliable and

solid way of fixing. Even timbers with reduced dimension stability but that were installed with proper screws correctly driven home through the deck and into the substructure, will be reliably fastened. SPAX offers a range of specially designed decking screws that are suitable for different applications and appearances.

SPECIAL FIXING THREAD

A very special feature of the SPAX decking screw range is the fixing thread, which is located directly under the screw’s head. While a screw head can work only in compression, the screw thread can work in both directions – compression and pull-out. Because of the firm hold of the fixing thread, the decking is clamped and fixed. The result is very satisfying – no squeaking noise when you walk on the deck.

36 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

With the fixing thread doing the ‘work,’ the visibility of the screw head can be reduced to a minimum. For this reason, the cylinder head is the most common in the deck screw range.

SPAX-BOLD

The newly introduced SPAX-Bold decking screw follows new trends. The head forms a small rising on top of the deck, presenting the connection as an ‘art detail,’ similar to the rivets of old steel structures. For the best performance, the Bold has the fixing thread under the head as well.

THE BEST: STAINLESS STEEL

All screws are made of austenitic stainless steel A2 and A4 (material numbers 1.4567 and 1.4578) to ensure the best corrosion resistance. A2-grade should be sufficient for most applications, whereas A4 should be used for building decks near the coastline. While other materials, such as martensitic or hardened ‘stainless’ steel are available on the market, they provide only reduced corrosion resistance when compared with austenitic stainless steel.

Austenitic stainless steel is a very ductile material, but its mechanical resistance is not as strong as that of hardened carbon steel. Driving home a screw is the most demanding process for the screw. And that is why pre-drilling the hardwood deck and substructure to the length of the screw in use certainly helps to drive home that screw and also helps in preventing it from suffering unnecessary damage.

Even though the SPAX decking screws have a CUT-point or a 4CUT-point that prevents the wood from splitting, pre-drilling has such a positive effect on the appearance of the finished connection that SPAX always recommends it.

ALUMINIUM VERSUS WOOD

Fixing in aluminium is different to fixing in wood. Not onlyis a different work process required, but also a different screw geometry. SPAX has responded to this need, and the result is the new SPAX decking screw for decks on aluminium, with two different kinds of thread.

The first entails having the fixing thread under the cylinder head, which is already familiar to the market. The other is the point-side thread, which is optimized for the best possible load-bearing behaviour between screw and aluminium.

For wood, it is again recommended to pre-drill the wooden parts in full length. And for wooden decking on aluminium substructures, the work process for the wooden part remains the same. For pre-drilling, a drill with a 5.2mm diameter should be used. For very hard wood species, a 5.5mm drill might be the best option. Take care to pre-drill only the wooden decking and not the aluminium! When drilling the wooden decking, the drill will end up touching the top of the aluminium. As such, a drill with a metal-type drill point may presumably last longer than a drill with a wooden drill point, when you compare the two.

Again, care should be taken not to pre-drill the aluminium. SPAX Air can be used to create some distance between the wooden decking and the aluminium substructure. The SPAX Air creates a space between the wooden decking and the substructure for airflow, and it helps for quick drying of the wooden decking.

Now the SPAX decking screw for aluminium can be used and be driven home. The drill point is able to pre-drill aluminium up to 3-mm in thickness, and the special thread will form itself into the aluminium. High-revolution speed will increase drill performance. For even screwing depth, use the SPAX screw sleeve. (Impact drivers are not suitable for the screw sleeve.)

ASSEMBLE, DISASSEMBLE

A final word on assembly and disassembly: In the case of improvement or maintenance work, it is sometimes necessary to pick up decking boards and reassemble them. Screwed connections are easy to install and easy to remove. SPAX screws feature the ‘T-STARplus’ recess for safe torque transfer, preventing the recess from wearing out while driving home the screw. The screw remains driveable.

For more information, visit www.fixtec.co.za.

DECKING SCREWS

// APRIL / MAY 2016 37

TIMBER ROOF STRUCTURES

MiTek Top-Hat profiles provide savings for timber roof structuresBy using MiTek's high-performing Top-Hat profiles, many advantages as well as cost savings stand to be gained - as the following profiles and application guidelines reflect.

USBAT25G: 25MM TOP-HAT PROFILE (AVAILABLE ONLY FROM MITEK)

USAGE:

• Runner• Diagonal brace (some limitations)• Tile battens (maximum 1,100mm truss spacing)

ADVANTAGES & BENEFITS:

• The discounted price competes with the timber equivalent of 38x76 (Gr5) runner or 38x50 (Gr5) batten.

• Lighter on transport and less in volume (1m3 = 3,996m versus timber 38x76 = 346m) = transport cost reduction per metre of product – approximately 50% saving.

• Less wastage – approximately 5% saving (at a minimum).• Storage space saving – approximately 60% saving.• Labour saving in loading/offloading time – approximately 60%.

38 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

USP0.5G: 40MM TOP-HAT PROFILE (AVAILABLE ONLY FROM MITEK)

USAGE:

• Purlin• Diagonal brace• Runner• Tilting fillet for tiled roofs

(maximum 1,400mm truss spacing)

ADVANTAGES & BENEFITS:

• The discounted price competes with the timber equivalent of 50x76 (Gr5).

• Lighter on transport and less in volume (1m3 = 2,493m versus timber 50x76 = 263m) = transport cost reduction

per metre of product – approximately 50% saving.

• Less wastage – approximately 5% saving (at a minimum).

• Storage space saving – approximately 60% saving.

• Labour saving in loading/offloading time – approximately 60%.

• Suitable for truss spacing of 1,400mm c/c for sheeting = increase in truss spacing of 16%.

• Simplified and faster fixing to timber truss – no purlin clips required. (This is an important aspect to consider when comparing steel purlin with roofzip screw versus timber purlin with purlin clip and drive screw – the provided price has taken all this into account.)


APPLICATION GUIDELINES AND SPECIFICATIONSTile batten (max 1,100mm truss spacing)• Fixing to timber

1. For pitch 20° or less: 1 x Permfix 35mm on top flange. At eaves, gable and apex: 1 x Permfix 35mm at top and bottom flange.2. For pitch over 20°: 1 x Permfix 35mm on top and bottom flange. At eaves, gable and apex: 1 x Permfix 35mm at top and bottom flange.3. a) Splices over truss to have 1 x Permfix 35mm on top and bottom flange. b) Splices between trusses require 2 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange with min overlap of 300mm.

Tile batten (max 1,100mm truss spacing)• Fixing to steel

1. For Pitch 20° or less: 1 x Tek 8x13 on top flange. At eaves, gable and apex: 1 x Tek 8x13 at top and bottom flange.2. For pitch over 20°: 1 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange. At eaves, gable and apex: 1 x Tek 8x13 at top and bottom flange.3. a) Splices over truss to have 1 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange. b) Splices between trusses require 2 x Tek 8x13 on top and bottom flange with min overlap of 300mm.

Runner on web or Bot Chord on truss spacing max 1,400mm c/c – not to be used with bracing frames.• Fixing to timber

1. Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges.2. Splices – see tile batten application.

Runner on web or Bot Chord on truss spacing max 1,400mm c/c – not to be used with bracing frames.• Fixing to steel

1. Always 1 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.2. Splices – see tile batten application.

Web cross-bracing on web runners at max truss spacing of 830mm c/c – not to be used with bracing frames.• Fixing to timber

1. Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges.2. Splices – see tile batten application.

Web cross-bracing on web runners at max truss spacing of 830mm c/c – not to be used with bracing frames.• Fixing to steel

1. Always 1 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.2. Splices – see tile batten application.

ENGINEERING SPECIFICATIONS AND GUIDELINES

The following are custom guidelines for the different applications of the Top-Hat profiles. Note that these only apply to MiTek-branded products – they are not generic guidelines.

25MM TOP-HAT PROFILE (AVAILABLE ONLY FROM MITEK): USBAT25G

// APRIL / MAY 2016 39


40MM TOP-HAT PROFILE (AVAILABLE ONLY FROM MITEK): USP0.5G

APPLICATION GUIDELINES AND SPECIFICATIONSTilting fillet on tiled roofs with 20mm or 25mm tile battens – see relevant max truss spacing for tile battens.• Fixing to timber

1. Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges.2. Splices – see Purlin application.

Tilting fillet on tiled roofs with 20mm or 25mm tile battens – see relevant max truss spacing for tile battens.• Fixing to steel

1. Always 1 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.2. Splices – see Purlin application.

Purlin on sheeted roofs or metal tile roofs – max truss spacing 1,400mm c/c.• Fixing to timber

1. Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges.2. At eaves, gables and apex: Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges (plus additional brace strap) * (*) only required in high-wind load category3. a) Splices over truss to have 1 x Permfix 35mm on top and bottom flange. b) Splices between trusses require 2 x Tek 12x20 on top and bottom flange with min overlap of 300mm.

Purlin on sheeted roofs or metal tile roofs – max truss spacing 1,400mm c/c.• Fixing to steel

1. Always 1 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.2. At eaves and gables: Always 2 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.3.a) Splices over truss to have 1 x Tek 12x20 on top and bottom flange. b) Splices between trusses require 2 x Tek 12x20 on top and bottom flange with min overlap of 300mm.

Runner or diagonal brace on all roofs – max truss spacing 1,400mm c/c.• Fixing to timber

1. Always 1 x Permfix 60mm on both flanges.2. Splices – see Purlin application.

Runner or diagonal brace on all roofs – max truss spacing 1,400mm c/c.• Fixing to steel

1. Always 1 x Tek 12x20 on both flanges.2. Splices – see Purlin application.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

MiTek South Africa(t) +27 011 237 8700(e) [email protected](w) www.mitek.co.za

THE MITEK ADVANTAGE

• MiTek has a national reach: Gauteng manufacturing facility + regional offices in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Durban.

• MiTek supplies the building industry with a wide range of timber connectors for both roof truss manufacturers and hardware merchants.

• MiTek excels through their:

• Integrated software packages;• Fully-designed builders’ products, manufactured in

accordance with Dekra ISO9001:2008 certification specifications; and

• MiTek’s people. Many employees have been with MiTek for more than 25 years.

40 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

creating the advantage

World Leaders since 1956.

A network of more than 190 licensed roof truss manufacturers across South Africa, provides a competitive and economic solution to even the most complex of roofi ng problems. This MiTek fabricator network, using MiTek’s state-of-the-art software programs, provides high quality, purpose-engineered truss units to satisfy the need of an ever increasing complex roof market. The scope of MiTek’s services includes not only unrivalled expertise in terms of professional structural engineering service but also the extensive Research and Development into all aspects of timber and light gauge steel roof design and construction as well as a full range of manufacturing equipment - that makes MiTek a World Leader.

Prefabricated timber roof trusses

eCo Fasteners® are timber and steel fastening devices that provide strong and rigid connections to any building structure.

• Light Gauge Steel Trusses • Steel Wall Framing

LEADING ROOF TRUSS SYSTEM SUPPLIER IN SA AND THE WORLD

A network of more than 190 licensed roof truss manufacturers across

that provide strong and rigid

A network of more than 190 licensed roof truss manufacturers across

MiTek Park,754 16th Road, Randjespark, Ext. 34, Halfway House,1685. Midrand (Head Offi ce) Tel: + 27(0) 11 237 8700Cape Town Tel: 021 905 0244 • Durban Tel: 031 700 6332 • Port Elizabeth Tel: 041 581 7525email: [email protected] • www.mii.com/southafrica

*MiTek Industries South Africa (Pty)Ltd, a division of the worldwide MiTek Group.

With traditional toggle clamps, one generally has to adjust the clamps each time you change the material thickness. But the Armor Auto-Adjusting

Technology automatically applies consistent clamping pressure over the range of material thicknesses. So, you set the clamping pressure once, and change the material as often as you like. Clamping pressures can be varied from 25lbs to 550lbs – the system will hold these pressures over time. Other benefits include a much faster set-up, fewer adjustments to clamp pressure, and less ergonomic strain.

The Armor Toggle Clamp is constructed with heat-treated, nickel-plated carbon steel, which greatly improves clamping strength and pressure. ‘Auto-adjust’ means the clamp maintains consistent pressure while automatically adjusting to different-sized work pieces. A simple rotation of the adjustment screw will achieve the required clamping pressure.

Adjustable mounting holes on the base plate accommodate most standard toggle mounting patterns. Soft grip handles are designed for comfort.

Thanks to its expanded range of clamping force and height, one Armor Auto-Adjust Toggle Clamp can replace several standard toggle clamps.

With fewer tools, fixtures and work stations being required, along with eliminating the need for constant adjustments, productivity and safety levels are increased.

The extensive Armor Auto-Pro auto-adjust clamp range includes the Horizontal Dog and Toggle Clamps, In-Line Dog Clamps, Dog Brackets and many other clamping devices.

Armor is an official brand in the Vermont Sales stable and available at leading stores countrywide. Vermont Sales welcomes trade enquiries: 011 314 7711.

CLAMPING TOOLS

The ultimate in auto-adjust clamping technologyArmor Tools' revolutionary line of Auto-Pro tools features a unique auto-adjust clamping technology, a breakthrough in the world of clamping.

“The South African Wood Preservers Association (SAWPA) is an industry body that represents the primary timber treatment industry consisting of treatment plants as well as the suppliers of chemical wood preservatives to these plants. Our main objective is to promote the treatment of of timber and the use of treated timber, whilst we also act as a centre for technical information and represent our members on different forums on matters of importance related to the industry.”

www.sawpa.co.za

CALL 0861 727 663 TO BOOK YOUR

CLASSIFIED ADVERT

tel: 021 702 2968 | www.timberdesign.co.za

timber home architectural design

The South African Wood, Laminate & Flooring Association

Do not let this happen to you Ensure you use a SAWLFA accredited installer

SAWLFA have an impartial opinion service (inspection report)

SAWLFA deal in wood, laminate and vinyl plank flooring

Contact: 011 455 2822See www.sawlfa.co.za for more details

“ HELP “ I am sick & tired of the problems with my wooden floor”

SAWLFA’s aim was firstly to develop a heightened awareness of the potential of wood, laminate and vinyl flooring, but also to address the needs of both

the local industry and the consumer. Education and consumer protection were paramount to the Association’s initiatives, and they remain priority objectives today.

SAWLFA offers an inspection/evaluation service not only to its members, but also to the general public. Two of the most common problems found, as addressed in this article, are related to ‘peaking’ and ‘hollow spots.’

PEAKING

Peaking, or tenting, occurs when the planks lift up or bulge at the joints.

This can be caused by various faults, the first pointing to moisture ingress from below or above the floor. Another reason is inadequate or no expansion gaps left during the installation process. Wood, laminates and vinyl flooring products manufactured with a click system (i.e. the ‘floating floor’ installation method) will expand if exposed to high temperatures or humidity, and it is therefore absolutely vital that expansion gaps be left around the perimeter of the floor.

Note: ‘Floating floor’ means that the floor is completely free to expand and contract.

HOLLOW SPOTS

It is critically important that the levels of the subfloor be checked prior to installation. A subfloor that is not level will create a hollow spot(s). Excessive movement of the floor when it is walked on could result in an annoying, creaking noise and would most likely cause the locking system to break and fail over time. This would lead to ‘short-end gapping’ as can be seen in the illustration.

The locking mechanism is compromised, and the planks pull apart from each other.

SAWLFA IS THERE TO HELP

To help prevent the costly problems and consequences as described, SAWLFA has put together a training programme to cover all aspects of flooring installations.

The training includes pre-installation, installation, and maintenance guides. SAWLFA believes that education is key, and as such, offers these sessions free to all SAWLFA members and at a very reasonable cost to non-members.

Installers attending the SAWLFA training will be equipped with the information and knowledge necessary to avoid future floor failures, resulting in consumers receiving professional service and a product they are completely satisfied with: A win-win situation for both parties.

For more information, visit www.sawlfa.co.za.

SAWLFA: There for the consumer and the installerIt was back in the 1990s that the growing interest in the use of traditional wood, laminate and the newer generation vinyl flooring (in domestic as well as commercial buildings) first prompted responsible local companies to form an industry-representative body. SAWLFA, the Southern African Wood, Laminate & Flooring Association, was formed in November 1998.

Peaking Hollow Spots

// APRIL / MAY 2016 45

FLOORING

MIMICS NATURE: The current trend in vinyl flooring (already available in a vast array of colours and designs) is favouring those designs that mimic natural flooring, such as wood and stone. The latest faux wood vinyl flooring has a texture that closely resembles the natural timber, and it comes in tiles that replicate floorboards – giving it an ultra-realistic aesthetic.

HOLDS UP IN WET AREAS: One of the most distinguishing features of vinyl flooring is that it is completely waterproof, making it an ideal option for bathrooms, covered patios and kitchens.

SOFT UNDERFOOT: Vinyl flooring is softer underfoot when compared to tiles, genuine timber and laminate flooring, as it has more ‘give’ thanks to a layer of foam or felt backing that makes it more comfortable to stand on. The resilience of the floor also means it is quieter than many other hard floor surfaces.

EASY TO CLEAN: One of vinyl flooring’s most popular traits is how hygienic and easy to clean it is. Vinyl flooring is highly water resistant and has very few seams, so there are few places for bacteria to hide and grow. Moreover, the seams themselves are sealed, so bacteria cannot get in. Because it is so resilient, you can sanitize the flooring using disinfectants and other chemicals without any risk of damage – great for those who suffer from allergies.

DURABLE: If laid correctly, vinyl flooring has proven to be extremely long-lasting (up to 20 years), requiring only minimal maintenance. Hard-wearing and stain resistant, it is a great option for heavy-traffic areas.

Ultra-realistic vinyl flooringVinyl flooring has come a long way. Today, it boasts 'super-realistic' designs that make it difficult to differentiate it from the real thing. A great choice for wet areas in the home, it is especially well suited for use in bathrooms. Blanche Burger from sanitaryware, tile and flooring retailer, Bathroom Bizarre, enlightens us on the benefits of vinyl flooring.

The new Drakensburg Oak (code: CNG01CK) and Harbour Oak (code: CNG05CK) vinyl flooring options from Bathroom Bizarre. Available in 229mm x 1219,2mm x 5mm planks, they retail for R335 per square metre.

HARBOUR OAK (CODE: CNG05CK)THE NEW DRAKENSBURG OAK (CODE: CNG01CK)

VINYL FLOORING

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WOOD TREATMENT

First Tanalised® E Wood Treatment Plant in Western CapeWith the growing trend towards choosing environmentally compliant products that reduce our carbon footprint, Arch Wood Protection has made its mark in the Western Cape with the commissioning of the first Tanalised® E treatment plant in the province.

Owners of the Riversdale Tanalith® E Treatment Plant – Leeroy Deane (left) and Elvin Roelofse.

Tanalised® E wood preservative has been awarded the Ecospecifier Global certification, which means the product has undergone rigorous assessments that

have verified it as a global environmentally preferable product. Perfectly positioned in the ‘hub’ of the Cape ‘Green Belt,’ the Riversdale Sawmill Tanalised® E treatment plant is a significant step towards growing the environmentally compliant wood treatment market.

The initiative is a joint business venture being spearheaded by two prominent and established industry players in the Western Cape. Outdoor timber specialists The Pole Yard, and Elvin Roelofse, who boasts a 25-year professional career in the forestry industry, entered into discussions in April last year to introduce environmentally compliant timber options in the Western Cape.

48 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

WOOD TREATMENT

The Riversdale Tanalith® E treatment plant

Leeroy Deane of The Pole Yard explains further: “When Riversdale Sawmill (which included a CCA treatment plant) came up for sale, we knew that this was our opportunity to bring this venture to fruition. We purchased the mill and Arch Wood Protection converted the CCA plant to a Tanalised® E treatment plant, which was then commissioned at the end of October 2015.”

Elvin Roelofse adds, “The long-standing, 15-year business relationship between The Pole Yard and me provides a solid foundation for this joint venture. We are confident that our combined expertise will grow this business into a substantial local and export market for environmentally compliant wood treatment product options.”

In a rapidly changing environment where eco-sensitive choices are becoming paramount, consumers are looking for trustworthy wood treatment options. In particular, household and children’s wood products such as jungle gyms, planter boxes and garden furniture are being scrutinized for safe use.

“Tanalised® E pressure-treated wood contains a copper azole base formulation that does not leave any harmful residues in the soil or water, and poses no risk for use around people, animals, plants and the environment. It is used for structural and decorative timber products in both indoor and outdoor applications to preserve wood against termites, fungal decay and insect borers,”explains Doug Sayce, General Manager of Arch Wood Protection.

“The launch of the Riversdale Sawmill’s Tanalith® E treatment plant will provide an environmentally responsible wood treatment option to the community and, in doing so, will embrace the ‘Green Belt’ ethos of the Western Cape. We look forward to establishing a market that will promote the ‘green stamp of approval’ with Tanalised® E wood preservative products,” concludes Deane.

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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Wood-Mizer - the linchpin of this honey co-op's success Developed by missionary philanthropist John Enright, Bee Sweet Honey, a co-op style honey initiative, is taking off in Zambia - and already improving the lives of 10,000 people.

John Enright has spent his entire life living and working in Congo and Zambia – as a pastor, teacher, pilot, and pioneer of sustainable economic development

projects. He speaks several tribal languages and knows Africa and its diverse cultures intimately. Political upheaval in the DRC in 1998 saw the Enrights relocate their ministry to Ndola, Zambia, where their Kafakumba training complex now serves as a vocational, children’s and pastor’s school for positive change in Central Africa.

Enright works alongside locals to build businesses that are profitable, reproducible, sustainable, and not wholly

dependent on his future involvement. Among his successful endeavours are Tilapia fish farming, growing aloe vera, banana plantations, livestock, and running a woodworking shop. But, far outstripping the successes achieved with other projects to date, is Enright’s honey co-op project.

Started some eight years ago in his woodworking training shop where he was looking for ways to use the off-cuts he was throwing away back then, this initiative got off the ground to become an impressive enterprise that is netting in excess of 100+ tonnes of processed honey each year.

Article by: Jacob Mooney and Etienne Nagel (Wood-Mizer Africa (Pty) Ltd)

A suspended hive high in the Miombo forest canopy ensures that the honey stays safe.

50 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

USING LOCAL TIMBER TO FIGHT DEFORESTATION

Africa’s timber resources are under huge pressure. Log exports with little or no local beneficiation and charcoal production for basic cooking and heating needs are some of the key reasons why Africa’s forests are under threat. “Starving villagers are far removed from the worldwide environmental debate,” Enright reminds us. “For them to preserve forests and fend for their families, we must demonstrate how it is in their best interest, both long- and short-term, to preserve the world around them.”

The lack of sawmilling infrastructure matched to poor infrastructure makes obtaining timber difficult and expensive for locals without disposable income. In the early 1980s, the inventor of the Wood-Mizer portable sawmill, Don Laskowski, donated a sawmill to Enright’s mission work and thereby demonstrated how portable, affordable sawmills could allow anyone to produce their own timber easily, efficiently, and locally.

The sawn timber from Enright’s sawmill soon found its way to his wood workshop where villagers were being coached on how to manufacture goods from local timber. It also demonstrated that wood is a valuable resource that Africa must use to better lives and improve communities. Enright’s idea for the honey project resulted from brainstorming what could become of the timber scraps from the woodworking shop.

THE BEE SWEET HONEY COMPANY

The beehive project was started in 2007, with its first few years serving to confirm the best beehive design and how to deal with the everyday quirks that first dogged the project.

Honey theft, contamination by termites and honey badgers were some of the initial worries – as was the challenge of developing the business model so as to maximize the number of people who could benefit from it. “When we started out, we made a lot of mistakes,” Enright recalls, “but we have slowly gotten to the point where the system works. We call it a micro-franchise. The villager does what he can do, we do what we can do, others are doing marketing, and everybody wins.”

Participants in the Bee Sweet Honey Company are villagers who are given a set number of beehives with the principle responsibilities of baiting the hives and ensuring they do not get stolen. Each new beehive owner signs a contract that clearly explains the parties’ mutual responsibilities. Enright says 25 is the ideal number of hives to be operated by an individual, but some people are operating as many as 250 hives.

Enright’s team visits the participating villagers twice a year, in spring and autumn, to harvest the honey and pay the participants based on the quantity of honey harvested. In 2014, more than $100,000 was paid out to participants.


// APRIL / MAY 2016 51

This number is expected to increase as new hive owners bring in their first harvests, while others grow their existing number of hives.

“We do not do beekeeping; we only do honey-gathering,” Enright explains. “As long as there are bees going in and out, you harvest it twice a year. It is a simple system, but then it allows people to send their kids to school, to put a tin roof on their house, and to have a decent living.”

"AFRICA-FRIENDLY" BEEHIVE PRODUCTION

“What we’re trying to make is a beehive that is Africa-friendly,” Enright continues. “So, the beehive is very different from the typical beehive in America or Europe.” Enright worked on the design of the hive to maximize honey cleanliness and ease of collection.

Enright employs 18 full-time workers in the beehive production workshop. Each hive costs approximately $20 to produce, all costs considered. Scrap logs and off-cuts from the woodwork shop are used for the beehives. The logs are split in half on the Wood-Mizer LT15 sawmill and are then resawn to produce boards of consistent thicknesses before being edged and cross-cut to the required lengths.

Enright sees the Wood-Mizer as the bedrock of the beehive project. The sawmill is an essential link in a chain that has now become a substantial benefit to thousands of people.

During the dry season, the boards are laid outside in the sun to dry out for two days, and then they are placed in a vertical jig and glued on-edge to form the side panels of the hive.

Once ready for shipment, the beehive parts are sent to new ‘customers’ where they are assembled to reduce shipment costs. A jig that accompanies the beehive makes it easy to assemble the hive. Recycled wire and a simple up-and-down pulley system make it easy to raise and lower the hives.


Enright displays a beehive panel from a large stack.

Honey ready for shipment.

52 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

GROWTH AND THE FUTURE

Although Bee Sweet has been producing honey for their local Zambian market for several years, they hope that real growth and greater profits will come when they obtain organic certification for their honey from the European Union, as this will open up international markets for the honey.

As of the summer of 2015, more than 10,000 individuals from all over northern Zambia were participating, and more than 50,000 beehives were active in the field.

Each hive will produce approximately 15kg of honey annually, which adds up to a lot of honey by the end of the year. More than 100 tonnes were harvested in the spring of 2015, with the hope for much of it to be sold internationally and the remainder to be sold locally at lower prices.

“The honey project is unique,” Enright remarks. “It allows a very simple person to produce organically certified honey that can be sold all over the world. [They are] now creating organic honey and organic wax, and are being paid accordingly – not charity. Very exciting! Our share of the revenue goes into the foundation that then launches projects somewhere else, and many other projects – schools, clinics, and things like that.”

Currently, and when timber supplies are available, Enright’s workshop is capable of producing components for more than 200 hives each day. The team would like to be able to produce for 500 a day, so they have purchased a new Wood-Mizer TVS twin-vertical sawmill that will help them double capacity.

“We would like to see other organizations take this technology,” Enright states. “I could see the beehive project becoming a huge creator of wealth, empowerment, and a huge blessing throughout Africa.” Enright says there are other groups currently replicating the honey project in Honduras, Ethiopia, Congo, and Malawi.

Enright says they are currently experimenting with several other business ideas designed for rural people. People who do well with the beehive programme can then expand into additional business programmes.

“Africa needs people to realize they are living in the Garden of Eden. This is a place where they can not only survive, but thrive! People are catching that vision,” he concludes.

For more information, visit www.beesweetltd.com or see the whole project in action here: https://youtu.be/YfBF0zYTvCc.


DISCOVER HOW OWNING A WOOD-MIZER PORTABLE SAWMILL IS AN INVESTMENT THAT PAYS.Wood-Mizer Africa (Pty) LtdUnit 1 Leader Park, 20 Chariot Rd, Stormill Ext 5, JohannesburgTel: +27 11 473 1313, [email protected], www.woodmizerafrica.com

WOOD-MIZER SAWMILLS, SECONDARY PROCESSING AND BLADE MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT

// APRIL / MAY 2016 53

PROJECT FEATURE

Home-grown answer to Vergelegen challengeWhen Rooftek Trusses, based in Strand in the Western Cape, was asked by the project architect to assist with the entrance to the new Vergelegen Shopping Centre, the extent of the briefing was a photo taken in the USA and a basic design. Rooftek's response gives new meaning to the phrase 'form follows function,' as can be seen in the final results.

54 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

"In fact, the most beautiful part of the roof is indeed the most functional part of the roof." - Kalahari Bruwer

FAST FACTS

Although the footprint was not that big, Bruwer says, there are some noteworthy facts to consider:

AVERAGE TRUSS WEIGHT: ±500kgHEAVIEST TRUSS: 1,600kgLARGEST TRUSS: 14.5m x ±3.5mHIGHEST DESIGN LOAD: 60kNWIND LOAD CATEGORY: 1/ASTEEL COVER PLATE AND RODS: ±6.5 tonsVOLUME OF LUMBER USED: 28m³M16 CUP-HEAD BOLTS AND NUTS: 3,500

ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE

Rooftek partnered with MiTek Industries in the design process.

Bruwer notes that unfactored loads of 40kN had to be overcome. “In the worst case, the bottom cord had a tension of 60kN, meaning that the top cord had a compression of 60kN,” he says. “The purlins were spaced at only 850ctc to cater for Category 1/A wind loads, fixed with special screws (concealed) with a design value.”

The design was done as a ‘Space Frame,’ which means the design criteria took all the dimensional elements, in all directions, into consideration. The design allows for all loads to be equally distributed around the centre, where all the steel connections play a critical role.

The result is that the most beautiful part of the roof is in fact also the most functional part of the roof.

Kalahari Bruwer, co-owner of Rooftek Trusses, proudly stands behind his company’s motto, ‘Trust us with the roof

over your head.’ Here he shares with us details of his hands-on involvement in the construction of the entrance to the Vergelegen Shopping Centre, located in Somerset West in the Western Cape.

KEEP IT STRAIGHT AND SIMPLE

“As I always say, ‘Keep it straight and simple.’ After Rooftek was approached to oversee the entrance of the Vergelegen Shopping Centre, we went off and did a 3D design for approval,” Bruwer states. They followed this up with an appropriate budget for consideration. Ultimately, the project was awarded on a design, supply and fit basis.

PROJECT FEATURE

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TIMBER MEETS STEEL

Bruwer emphasizes that special care was taken to only select timber of the best quality. “All the timber, 28m³ used, was specially sourced from one sawmill. The bulk of the material was 76 x 228 South African Pine, Grade 7, clear treated timber.”

Roughly 6.5 tons of steel was used. “All components were designed in CAD; laser-cut and epoxy coated,” Bruwer says.

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES

A project of this nature does not come without challenges. Bruwer points to a few specific obstacles the team from Rooftek overcame, including sourcing top-quality lumber in this size and volume, and then handling trusses that are 14.5m long and weigh 1,600kg.

Moreover, it was no easy task transporting the hefty trusses on a public road.

PROJECT FEATURE

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And, ultimately, true workmanship and professionalism had to be demonstrated during the erection process to ensure the project was completed without damage to the trusses.

But the Rooftek team was up to the challenge, as the results show. “We at Rooftek always strive to do something new, with all the passion and enthusiasm, in an industry that is very similar in general,” Bruwer concludes.

For more information, visit www.rooftek.co.za.

www.ROOFTEK.co.zaTEL : 021 845 5551 • FAX : 021 845 5556

KALAHARI [email protected] 458 7122

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PROJECT FEATURE

T +27 (0) 21 982 1234 +27 (0) 21 982 1224F +27 (0) 21 982 3561E [email protected] www.thatchscapes.co.za

Thatchscapes is a reputable thatcher and we are proud founding members of the Thatcher's Association of South Africa. If your client is looking for something special for their new home, such as thatch gazebos, lapas or any other thatched structure, feel free to contact us

(t) 021 919 8397(e) [email protected](w) www.lucasqualitythatchers.co.za

Master Thatchers since 1980

CONTACT US FOR....• Free quotations• Thatch roof design, consultation & advice• Structural design by in-house structural engineer• Material sourcing & supply• Professionally supervised carpenter & thatching teams• Top-notch after-sales service, maintenance & guarantees• Low-cost thatch roof insurance

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Unparalleled Leader in Design & Construction

Since 1983

Kosie Theunissen tel: 021 883 8383cell: 082 854 5949 | [email protected]

Theunissen Thatching, a founder member of the Thatchers Association of South Africa, is a well established company. We specialise in all aspects of thatching and wooden structures.

SPECIALIZING IN ALL ASPECTS OF THATCHING

Grow Your Business

Contact Bronwyn Hayes: +27 21 712 1151 [email protected]

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OVER 700 SUB-CATEGORIES

with our definitive on-line directory for the forestry, sawmilling and forest product industry.

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John: 083 270 3826Shaun: 083 635 8746Office: 034 651 1664Email: [email protected]: www.thatcher.co.za

Make the ‘Right Choice’ the first time!

THATCH

The Guide to Thatch Construction in South Africa is a must for homeowners, thatching contractors, building contractors, architects, engineers and

certification bodies. At nearly 100 pages, colour photographs complement information and explanations of the requirements under the SANS10407 (Thatched Roof Construction) Specifications, to which all thatch roofs must adhere.

WHY THIS GUIDE?

In the words of TASA, thatching is no longer a craft that gets transferred from father to son. Nowadays, young people are forced to look for better opportunities in other employment sectors or choose formal education to sustain themselves.

In addition, the thatch industry started feeling the effects of unprincipled contractors who desired to make a ‘quick buck’ by doing low-quality thatch roof work before disappearing soon afterwards. A substantial number of complaints from the public followed, compounded by damages suffered as a result of unpaid insurance claims due to extremely poor workmanship. TASA was compelled to impose radical measures to regulate the thatch industry.

At the same time, the development of this Guide presented an opportunity to meet the growing need amongst all stakeholders for definitive standards on the erection and maintenance of thatched roofs. Moreover, it became extremely necessary in order to determine the level of competence of newcomers to the thatch industry.

OBJECTIVES OF THE GUIDE

The Guide serves as a reference and supporting document, in compliance with the requirements of the South African National Standards.

SUPPORTED AND ENDORSED BY: • SATAS • (SOUTH AFRICAN TECHNICAL AUDITING SERVICES)•• SAWPA • (SOUTH AFRICAN WOOD PRESERVERS ASSOCIATION)

•

•

TASA turns 10 and launches Guide to Thatch Construction in SATASA, the Thatchers Association of South Africa, is proudly celebrating its 10th anniversary. At the same time, the Association is introducing the much anticipated Guide to Thatch Construction in South Africa, a milestone accomplishment and the pinnacle of its work to date.

// APRIL / MAY 2016 59

Practical in nature, the Guide explains the materials, processes and test methods to be used in order to comply with those requirements.

The Guide consists of explanatory photos, illustrations and descriptions that are plainly drafted so that everyone can understand the terms contained therein – even illiterate craftsmen and uninformed customers. And yet the nature of the information is indispensable, extending and applicable to professionals such as engineers and architects, as well as other relevant parties like banks, insurance companies, municipalities, etc.

CONTENT

The Guide is divided into different categories and covers all facets of a thatched roof. It begins with the different definitions as set out in the National Building Regulations, namely project process, roof structure, general installations, maintenance of a thatch roof, etc.

Because of the enormous effect it has on the quality of the end product, attention is also given to the specification requirements, handling and storage of the raw material.

HOW TO OBTAIN THE GUIDE

The Guide will be accessible to any and all interested parties – at no charge – via download from the TASA website or electronic file exchange. (The TASA office can be contacted for assistance.) It is a ‘dynamic/life’ document that will be updated annually as methods and technologies improve and the National Building Regulations are amended.

The official launch date of the Guide to Thatch Construction in SA is 23 April 2016, marking a special TASA Annual General Meeting and birthday celebration that will also honour those TASA members with continuous membership for the past 10 years and who provided valuable input and support to help make the Guide a reality.

TASA members can look forward to cash prizes and certificates in a TASA photo competition covering the following categories:

• Largest single structure• Most aesthetic structure• Smaller structures (lapas, etc.)• Funniest thatch photo

Timber iQ is proud to support the thatch industry and will be sharing pertinent information from the Guide to Thatch Construction in SA with our readers in future editions of our publication.


TASA (Thatchers Association of South Africa)Cell: 083 283 8429Email: [email protected]: www.sa-thatchers.co.za

THATCH

TASA AND THE ITSTASA is one of the founding members of the International Thatching Society (ITS). This membership, along with its presentation of the ITS Congress in 2014, marked a major achievement in TASA’s history.

South African thatchers are as good as the best in the world. This was proven when the ITS honoured Biggarsberg Thatchers in 2014 and Recon Thatchers in 2015 with awards for “Best Thatched Roof in the World.”

PROMOTING TREATED TIMBER ANDTHE USE OF TREATED TIMBER PRODUCTSPRODUCED BY SAWPA MEMBERS

CHOOSE THE CORRECT HAZARD (H) CLASS:

H2 – Low Hazard: Inside above groundH3 – Moderate Hazard: Outside above groundH4 – High Hazard: Outside in groundH5 – High Hazard: Outside in contact with heavy wet soil or in fresh water H6 – High Hazard: Prolonged immersion in sea water

H2 H3 H4 H5 H6

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY ASPECT RELATED TO TREATED TIMBER PRODUCTS AND THE CORRECT USE OF TREATED TIMBER, OR WHERE TO CONTACT SAWPA MEMBERS, PLEASE CONTACT:

Tel: 011 974 [email protected]

DOORS

Hobbit DoorWhen Timber iQ first saw this gorgeous 'hobbit' door, we were hard pressed not to snatch it up for our own enjoyment, seeing that we know its creator, Johan Nel. Instead, we decided to share it here for everyone's enjoyment.

Hobbit Door creator, Johan Nel: “My client, a medical doctor from New York – USA, contacted me after seeing photographs on my website of the previous ‘Hobbit

Door’ that I had made. He felt it would suit his family home, which is situated on Wellesley Island on the St. Lawrence River in Canada and undergoing renovations.

He first contacted me in late 2014, but due to unexpected and severe weather conditions in Canada at that time, the order had to be postponed. However, he came back to me almost a year later with a firm order. I made sure that the door was complete and ready for shipping by mid-October 2015.

Article by: Master woodworker, Johan Nel

62 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

DOORS

"I observe a piece of wood or log until it reveals its nature, and I can then see exactly what to do. I am passionate about what I do, and derive great pleasure from every piece I make, as well as from the wood itself. Hopefully this is self-evident in everything I make." - Johan Nel

WOOD INSPIRATION

The Hobbit Door is an exact replica of the hobbit’s door as featured in the film ‘Lord of the Rings,’ a movie that was adapted from the novel by J.R.R. Tolkien, who found his inspiration while living in Hogsback in the Eastern Cape.

While Oregon Pine might appear to be the most obvious choice of wood for this project, on further investigation I felt it would be far better to use Afromosia (found from southern to mid-Africa), because the natural high oil content of the wood would protect the door from the harsh weather conditions experienced in that part of Canada.

Afromosia is a dense wood, with a deep, rich colour. It is at its most attractive when oiled and polished. It cuts and planes nicely, and it sands to a fine finish.

FINER DETAILS

The hinges were custom-made to my specifications, from 10mm mild steel. The handles, lock and keys were similarly custom-made. And all these fittings were produced locally, in Knysna.

The size of the door is 2,400mm x 2,200mm. By itself, it weighs just under 400kgs. The hinges were heavily bolted on both its sides, giving the door its required strength. Specially designed brass bushes were used to hold the weight of the door, whilst allowing for easy opening. The hinges, locks and handles were treated with textured paint to give it that ‘old’ look and feel.

At last, with the door very well oiled and polished, it was ready to be crated. I proceeded to make the crate as well, since it had to be very secure and house the door safely on its travels – first by ship to Montreal, and then by road directly to Wellesley Island (where it has since arrived).

It gave me great pleasure to build this door – not only to execute the design, which incites the imagination, but also to work with this magnificent wood.”


Johan Nel(e) [email protected](w) www.knysnawoodworkers.co.zaFacebook: Knysnawoodworkers

// APRIL / MAY 2016 63

Part of the local movement is minima, bespoke Scandi-inspired timber lighting and furniture from South African designer, Jacques Cronje. Since being

introduced at Design Indaba in 2014, the range has gone on to furnish national and international corporate and consumer spaces. minima’s unique style continues to please – the 2015/2016 collection was recently launched to a great reception.

Earlier this year, minima won first prize in the established designer category of the annual dti National Furniture Design Competition. Its winning free-form bench incorporates complex geometry and minima’s signature clip-together profiled ribs system.

For more information, visit www.minima.co.za.

TIMBER DÉCOR

minima in 2016Today, our lives are busy and perhaps over-connected. For some people, minimalism is the answer - whether at home, work or play.

64 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

With exposure to content online and an increasingly keen interest in lifestyle trends, clients nowadays are driven by a desire to have their homes reflect

and match their evolving tastes – as influenced by the latest fashions and styles.

FinDoor has a proud tradition of providing the trade with an attractive product that satisfies these demands, offering an extensive range of quality moulded door skins with trendy designs and finishes. FinDoor skins are expertly applied to Masonite and medium-density fibreboards by preferred manufacturers, and they require little to no maintenance.

What’s more, FinDoor carefully curates each of its skins according to colour, pattern, and design – presenting distinctive styles that complete the décor and layout of any room.

FinDoor makes a home look great, but as a contractor, it makes you look even better.

For more information on the complete catalogue range of skins available, visit www.findoors.co.za.

Contractors gain the edge when keeping with the trend The demands of the contractor's client have changed dramatically over the past few years, and it has become more important than ever to deliver products of both quality and style that satisfy clients' needs. FinDoor understands this, and offers contractors a solution to give them an undeniable competitive edge.

not all doors have to be made the same...

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Available in:• Masonite and medium density fibreboard• Standard door sizes 2032mm x 813mm x38mm

DOORS

“Front doors can leave a big impression on anybody who is visiting your home. They can also make a big impact on the curb appeal and add substantial character to your home. In fact, research has shown that replacing the front door is a home improvement with one of the biggest pay-offs. It is affordable, relatively easy to do, and it makes one of the most visually noticeable impacts,” says Cobus Lourens from window and door manufacturer, Swartland.

When it comes to selecting a front door, Lourens recommends not settling for something ordinary or boring: “When choosing a front door, there are obviously practical matters that need to be considered, such as security, energy efficiency and light. However, aesthetics are also incredibly important. Ideally, your front door should stand out as an impressive focal point. Of course it should complement the rest of your home’s architecture and décor, but it ought to also stand out as something unique and interesting. The front doors of today provide homeowners the opportunity to make an individual statement with the entryway to their home – they have become a personal signature, an expression of the unique character and style of the home and those who live in it.”

Understanding the different drivers in the design and manufacturing of front doors can go a long way to help homeowners decide on which front door best suits their home’s unique design and their style preferences. Lourens offers an overview of what is in vogue at the moment:

WOODEN IT BE NICE

Natural wood has always dominated when it comes to the materials used to make front doors. Its uniquely organic aesthetic and rich natural texture offer a winning combination for making a truly eye-catching feature. Also, as general home improvement trends head towards more eco-friendly solutions, timber remains a great choice, as it not only looks good, but is an excellent insulator, has an impressively low carbon footprint, boasts an incredibly long lifespan, and if sourced from a sustainably managed forest, is also a renewable building resource.

LET THE LIGHT SHINE THROUGH

Whether the choice is an aluminium or a wooden front door, glass panelling is becoming increasingly sought after. Front doors with oversized glass inserts, surrounding panels, decorative glass inserts, sidelights and transoms are becoming more and more popular due to the extra light they let into the home. In the recent past, glass manufacturing has made significant technological strides, resulting in a much more formidable selection of glass types.

BIGGER IS BETTER

Similar to tile trends, large format front doors seem to be bang on trend this year. Increasingly more designers and architects are choosing front doors with added width and height in order to give their designs a more dramatic aesthetic. Also, bigger doors are not only used to make an impactful visual statement, they also tend to create an illusion of increased interior space. Visually, these large format doors can be made to appear even larger through the addition of side panels, sidelights and transoms.

A MATTER OF COLOUR

Colour can be used creatively to turn a front door into the home’s centrepiece, whether it is a standout hue or one that harmonizes with the rest of the home’s colour scheme. From bright, eye-catching pops of colour through to more muted organically natural tones, the sky is the limit when it comes to front doors.

THE LITTLE THINGS

Installing designer door accents, surrounds and hardware is another growing front door trend, because these seemingly minor features can actually give the front door that ‘wow’ factor.

DOORS

Leave the door openThe front door is the gateway to one's home. It is the one aspect of a house that family members and guests immediately notice, and touch, as they walk through it with each visit. It is no surprise therefore, that discerning homeowners watch for trends when it comes to choosing a new, or replacing an existing, front door. Here is an overview of what is making waves this year, according to Swartland.

66 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

Not only do they add character to the front entrance, they also provide a relatively affordable way of turning something ordinary into a real feature. Examples are ornate knockers, door handles or hinges, pediment sets, door pilasters, door mantels and overlays, keystones and dentil strips.

CUSTOMIZE - BUT BE ENERGY EFFICIENT

The current state of the urban environments we inhabit is cause to be more environmentally conscious, from the food we eat and the cars we drive, right down to the front doors we choose for our homes. Nowadays the ‘green’ choice is carried through to the selection of timber windows and doors that are compliant with SANS613 and SANS204, meaning they do not only comply with the necessary local building regulations, but are also an environmentally responsible choice.

Homeowners are increasingly opting for bespoke front doors that have been designed and custom-manufactured to suit their specific requirements. These front doors stand out as sculptural features and speak volumes to the homeowners’ status. Designed to introduce visitors to the rest of the home, bespoke front doors really set the pace of what’s to come – architecturally speaking – as guests enter.

DOORS

IN NUMBERS

186,962 MILLIONAS OF 5 APRIL 2016

HA CERTIFIED

30,184 CoCCERTIFICATES

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TIMBER PROFILE

Wood worksBoldly Balau In this instalment of our 'wood works' series, we discover why Balau is so popular and widely favoured in the timber trade, especially when it comes to its outdoor applications.

Meranti is the collective name for a large group of East Asian timbers that share the scientific name Shorea. The woods produced by the species in this

genus are extremely variable with respect to colour and density, and this has resulted in the timber trade separating the Merantis into five main groups based on density and appearance characteristics, rather than scientific names. These are: Light Red Meranti, Dark Red Meranti, White Meranti, Yellow Meranti, and Balau.

Of these groups, Light Red Meranti and Balau are commonly used in South Africa. Balau has a higher density than Light Red Meranti and is also more durable, and it is therefore widely used for applications that require a high natural durability against attack by fungi and borer. According to the Malaysian Grading rules for sawn hardwoods, the density range for Balau is between 850 and 1,155kg/m3 at 15% moisture content.

Article by: Stephanie Dyer, Timber Information Services

The Henderson Waves pedestrian bridge in Singapore, 36m above Henderson Road. Slats of Yellow Balau are used in the decking. Photo credit: Schristia

68 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

Balau is well known in the decking and building industries and preferred by most customers for outdoor projects due to its strength, durability and attractive colouring.

The trade names Selangan batu and Bangkirai are used in other parts of the world for Balau. Balau is separated into two groups in Malaysia, namely Balau (sometimes called Yellow Balau) and Red Balau. The trade name for Balau from Sabah, Brunei and Sarawak is Selangan batu and mainly consists of the species Shorea laevis, S. seminis and S. superba. Balau and Selangan batu are the most suitable for use in adverse conditions. Red Balau is produced mainly by the species Shorea guiso and S. kunstleri. It is also called Red Selangan batu in Sabah. Red Balau is similar to Balau in many respects, but not as durable and slightly lower in density (see table).

Wood produced by Shorea species can be identified by tangential lines of resin canals, visible in the end grain and lengthwise planes as white lines, which can be conspicuous or inconspicuous. Apart from colour and density, the anatomical structures of the Shorea species are similar, and the different species are not easily distinguishable.

The uses of Balau include heavy engineering, wharf construction, bridge building, general construction, sleepers, decking, cladding, flooring, plywood veneer, linings, joinery, fencing, boat building, vats, casks and turnery.

TIMBER PROFILE

Weathered Balau cladding from a house in Bakoven. Photo credit: Rare Woods SA (Pty) Ltd.

Photo credit for above and below: Rare Woods SA (Pty) Ltd.

// APRIL / MAY 2016 69

BALAU: HARD FACTS

Botanical/Scientific name:

Shorea species(Family: Dipterocarpaceae)

Trade name: Balau: Balau hitam, Balau gunung, Balau tembaga, Balau kuning, Balau bukit, Balau laut, Balau kumus, Balau puteh, Balau pasir, Balu kumus hitam, Balau sengkawang darat, Balau gajah, Balau sengkawang air (Malaysia)Selangan batu (Sabah, Brunei, Sarawak)Bangkirai (Borneo)Chan (Thailand)Guijo (Philippines)Giso, Membatu (Indonesia)

Red Balau: Balau merah, Balau membatu, Balau laut merah, Balau membatu jantam (Malaysia)Red Selangan batu (Sabah, Brunei, Sarawak)

Origin: Balau originates from South-East Asia, including Peninsular- and Island Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia. It is imported mainly from the Malaysian island states of Sabah and Sarawak.

Conservation status:

Balau is not listed in the CITES appendices. However, many species of the genus Shorea are on the IUCN Red List. The majority of Shorea species are listed as being critically endangered due to a population reduction of over 80% in the past three generations, a decline in their natural range, and exploitation.

Bole characteristics:

Large trees, with a mean height of 35-40m and a maximum height of 60m. Old trees have buttressed stems, with buttress roots of 1-3m in height. Clear boles of 20-25m with diameters of 0.6-0.8 (max. 2m) are obtainable.

Colour: The heartwood of freshly-sawn Balau is yellow to greyish-brown, sometimes with a reddish tinge. On exposure to light, it darkens rapidly to brown and darkens to dark brown over time. The sapwood is 20-70mm wide, white to light brown, and clearly demarcated. The heartwood of Red Balau is purplish-red to dark reddish-brown and the well-defined sapwood is pink to grey-brown.

Grain pattern: The grain varies from straight to wavy to strongly interlocked, the latter producing a striped figure in radially sawn timber. The texture is fine and even.

Density: Balau: 930kg/m3 (Ref 1) 800-1,155 kg/m3 (Ref 2)900 (700-1,150) kg/m3 at 12% mc (Ref 3)840 kg/m3 at 12% mc kg/m3 (Ref 4)850 kg/m3 at 12% mc (Ref 5)

Red Balau: 800-880 kg/m3 air-dry (Ref 2,6)

Strength/Bending properties:

Hard and heavy with very high bending and crushing strength and resistance to shock loads. The wood has high stiffness.

Seasoning: The timber dries very slowly and is prone to developing surface checks and end splits, especially with exposure to the sun or if material is dried too rapidly. Boards should be dried very slowly and with great care. Thick boards may develop considerable degrade, but distortion is not serious. Partial air-drying before kiln-drying is recommended. Movement in use is medium.Kiln-drying schedule 3 is recommended (see page 72).

Durability and preservative treatment:

The resistance to attack by fungi and borer is very variable among species. Balau is rated durable with regards to decay resistance, but is rated susceptible to insect attack. The wood is extremely resistant to preservative treatment. Balau, Bangkirai and Selangan batu are resistant to acids and other chemicals.

Working and finishing properties:

Despite the hardness of the wood, it saws easily and cleanly. It planes well, but quarter-sawn wood with interlocked grain is inclined to tear. This can be avoided by reducing the cutting angle. Blunting of tools is moderate. Pre-boring is recommended before nailing, to prevent splitting.

HERE IS SOME ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE PROPERTIES OF BALAU FOR THE WOOD ENTHUSIAST:

021 856 4334

071 364 6335

[email protected]

www.easyclip.co.za

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DON’T screw up your deck!Finally, there is a product which allows the wood to be the focus of your deck and not unsightly screws.

Safe and smooth screw-free deck surface

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No splitting, cupping, cracking or rotting deck boards

Deck boards are easy to maintain due to a screw-free deck surface

70 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

TIMBER PROFILE

EXCLUSIVE SHOP & FACTORY (T) 021 949 5555 CITY BOWL/ATLANTIC SEABOARD (T) 021 425 2555

TEL: 021 949 5555 | [email protected] www.timbacore.co.za

WE SUPPLY

• Fences• Sliding Gates• Rustic Fencing

• Trellis (Windbreaks)• Pergola - Carports• Wire Mesh Fencing

WE MANUFACTURELarge stock of Wendy Houses, Garden Sheds, Tool Sheds & Dog Kennels

WENDY HOUSES LOGLAP CABINS NUTEC CABINS

DECKING MATERIAL AND STRUCTURAL TIMBER AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC

WE INSTALL

RAILWAY SLEEPERSPOLESLATTE FENCING

Maintenance Free Hard Wood Decking - Garapa, Massaranduba, Balau, etc. (DIY Customers Welcome)

021 856 4334

071 364 6335

[email protected]

www.easyclip.co.za

facebook.com/easyclip

DON’T screw up your deck!Finally, there is a product which allows the wood to be the focus of your deck and not unsightly screws.

Safe and smooth screw-free deck surface

Outstanding hold-down power

No splitting, cupping, cracking or rotting deck boards

Deck boards are easy to maintain due to a screw-free deck surface

TIMBER DRYING SCHEDULE FOR BALAU (Shorea species)Supplied by H-P Stöhr, Timber Drying Institute ([email protected])

Drying schedule no.

Dry Bulb temperatures (°C) and Relative Humidity (%) at the following Timber Moisture Contents

Green 40% 30% 18% to final

DB RH% DB RH% DB RH% DB RH%

3 50 71 55 64 60 53 70 36

DB = Dry bulb temperature, RH = Relative Humidity

Please note: Drying schedules only serve as a guide to the kiln operator, with the response of the timber to the drying condition being the criterion.

TIMBER PROFILE

REFERENCES AND SOURCES:

1. Lincoln, W A. 1986. World woods in colour. Stobart Davies Ltd., Hertford

2. Menon, P K B. 1993. Structure and identification of Malayan woods. Malayan Forest Records, No. 25. Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur

3. Wiselius, S I. 2010. Houtvademecum. Centrum Hout Almere, Sdu Publishers, The Hague

4. https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/forestry/using-wood-and-its-benefits/wood-properties-of-timber-trees/red-balau

5. https://www.wood.database.co./lumber-identification/hardwoods/balau/

6. Timber Technology Centre (TTC). 1998. Timber Notes – Heavy Hardwoods (I). Timber Technology Bulletin 8 (1998). Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Kuala Lumpur

Balau planter box from Babylonstoren. Photo credit: Rare Woods SA (Pty) Ltd.

Photo credit: Eco Timber Traders – direct importers of high-quality Balau decking in sizes 19x68 and 19x90, which can be used for many different exterior applications like decks and wall cladding.

72 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

CASE STUDY

Case study: Natural materials for healthy living The main objective of this project was to build a house adapted to the marine climate of Brittany in compliance with the French RT2012 energy regulations, using bio-sourced materials and including elements such as a conservatory, a wood-burning stove, and a two-way airflow central ventilation system.

After searching the Internet for information on passive buildings with arched roofs, the project manager learned of and subsequently chose an

architect who also aims to create healthy living conditions in a natural environment. The house in Riec-sur-Bélon, a town known for its fine oysters, is composed of three distinct sections:

1. The carport is a wood-frame structure covered with slatted cladding to the north, anthracite zinc to the west, and a low-pitched zinc roof with standing seams.

2. The second section is an entrance hall with a double-pitched roof leading into the main living space. The ground floor of the largest section includes a stairwell, a storeroom, a bedroom with bathroom, and a kitchen with access to the conservatory.

3. Located upstairs, under an arched roof, one finds a study (with views over the conservatory and the street) and small flat.

Photo credit: Armel ISTIN photographe, used courtesy of v2com

74 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

CASE STUDY

WOOD MEETS CONCRETE

The structure is a combined wood/concrete frame:

• The wood frame is insulated with 60cm wood tissue fibre and clad in Douglas Fir. The floor is made of 8/20 joists with fermacell® insulation and parquet.

• Concrete was chosen for the foundation slab and the crawl space walls; these are insulated in order to prevent heat transfer from the heated living space above.

• The north-facing walls of wood uprights and 140mm rock wool have external insulation. Plastered on the inside, they ensure thermal mass for year-round comfort within the house.

• The wood frame has 145mm cellulose wadding insulation and the roof structure is insulated with 300mm rock wool, each of which are made airtight with a vapour shield.

• The floors of the ground floor are insulated by 2x50mm cork laid under the screed, which is in turn laid with parquet, ceramic tiles or cork, depending on the room.

OTHER DETAILS

In addition to the wood-burning stove, there are two gas radiators and two electric heated towel rails. Ventilation is ensured by the two-way airflow central system. Hot water is provided by a thermodynamic water heater. Rainwater is collected in a tank for toilet flushing and watering the garden. Aluminium window and door frames enable lift-slide opening for the bay windows; other windows and doors open inwards. Raw earth bricks clad the plastered concrete wall behind the wood-burning stove.

PROJECT TEAM

PROJECT: House in Riec-sur-Bélon, France ARCHITECT: a.typique Patrice BIDEAU architecte(Patrice Bideau, architecte D.P.L.G.)SURFACE TERRAIN: 825,00m2

SURFACE MAISON (HABITABLE): 120,00m2

YEAR: 2015

// APRIL / MAY 2016 75

CASE STUDY

CASE STUDY

Thanks to the bioclimatic design, the house receives sunlight all day long, and full advantage is made of solar input during winter. Slatted wooden sliding and latched shutters provide natural shade and ventilation. The conservatory is designed to regulate solar input with the help of plants and the opening and closing of doors. The energy performance for a house which it is not intended to heat is 67,1 Kwh/m². With its organic architecture, high energy efficiency and use of ecological materials, this house demonstrates one of the rules of David Pearson’s Gaia Charter, “Let architecture be inspired by nature and be sustainable, healthy, conserving and diverse.”

For more information, visit www.atypiquepatricebideau.wordpress.com/.

COME KNOCK ON OUR DOOR!

Suppliers and manufacturers of quality veneered boards natural and reconstituted veneer bundles and layons and veneered internal doors and components.

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Tel: 011 865 2151 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.pearlman.co.za

Stand 1645 Smith Road Roodekop 1401

Full range of internal veneered doors available in our showroom.



TIMBER INTERIOR

Impressive new look for Old Mutual After successfully designing and installing Old Mutual Investment Group's head office in 2010 as well as its Specialised Finance Branch in 2013, Inhouse Brand Architects was the clear choice to re-imagine the interior design of the premises occupied by Old Mutual Alternative Investments.

Because Old Mutual was already familiar with Inhouse’s expertise in conceptualization and implementation, the insurance company gave the

design team free rein when it came to the interior fit-out. Inhouse’s Creative Director, Aidan Hart, and Associate Director, Moiisha Visagie, who led the project, decided on a scheme that would bring a welcoming sense of warmth to the area.

The aim was to create a space that was true to the Old Mutual Alternative Investments brand – one of the largest alternative investment managers in Africa. Inhouse also wanted to integrate a ‘human’ element into the design. This was achieved by introducing quality natural materials such as timber – specifically Harlequin and Stained Oak – and leather, as well as selecting a colour palette of earthy tones.

78 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

TIMBER INTERIOR

The reception area is the first point of contact where visiting guests can immediately appreciate this stylish sense of warmth. A striking reception backdrop, crafted from timber and shaped into fins, serves as an eye-catching design element. The waiting area features comfortable leather seating, wooden furniture, and indoor planting, which reinforce the natural aesthetic.

The same design concept flows through to other sections of the office. The traditional, corporate look-and-feel of the boardrooms was softened through the installation of wooden wall panelling and curtains. In the meeting rooms, these same features were repeated – along with timber fins and splashes of green, adding an organic emphasis to these spaces.

The kitchen, or café area, received an equally organic makeover. Green walls are prominent in the design. Pendant lights, crafted from timber, hang over the countertops. Plants are again introduced to signify an undeniable earthy atmosphere.

Overall, the design scheme emphasizes quality and implements natural touches throughout, creating a space that cohesively represents the brand in a sophisticated and contemporary manner.

With yet another successful design for the Old Mutual Group, Inhouse continues to impress as the interior design firm of choice for South Africa’s leading investment firm.

// APRIL / MAY 2016 79

Nikolay Strigul, Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Statistics at Washington State University Vancouver, together with his colleague Jean Liénard,

a mathematics postdoctoral researcher, have created the first computer simulation that grows realistic forests – right down to the branches, leaves and roots of individual trees.

The researchers are using the simulation, which is detailed in a new paper in Royal Society Open Science, to determine how drought, warmer weather, more frequent wildfires and other climate-related changes will affect forests across North America. They have already used the computer model to predict increases in fire rates and plant growth in Quebec hardwood forests due to rising CO2 levels and warmer temperatures.

“We call our model LES after the Russian word for forest,” says Strigul, who grew up in Russia but moved to the USA in 2001. “It is a tool that forest managers can use to create 3D representations of their own forests and simulate what will happen to them in the future.”

INTRICATE DETAIL - ADJUSTABLE SCALE

LES uses recent advances in computing power to grow 100 × 100-metre stands of drought- and shade-tolerant trees that can then be scaled up to actual forest size.

The model is unique in several ways. First, it is the only forest-growing simulator that creates intricate root systems and canopy structures for each tree. (Previous forest simulators could either grow one or the other.) Below ground, the roots of different trees in LES compete for water resources in each pixel of the model. Above ground, the leaves in each tree’s canopy compete for sunlight in a similar fashion. Over time, the trees’ canopies change shape to expose their leaves to more sunlight.

The researchers use a combination of data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Inventory and Analysis Program and other forestry databases, as well as aerial reconnaissance from UAVs, to customize their model to particular forests. The simulator lets scientists project how changing climate conditions will impact forests over thousands of years.

“In cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service, we developed a method where we fly drones around a forest and take pictures and gather other imaging information,” Liénard explains. “We use this data to develop 3D models that have real distributions of space and ecological features. Details of our drone work were recently published in PLOS One and Measurement – it is a method that can be adapted for practically any forest,” he says.

FORESTRY RESEARCH

Researchers grow cyberforests to predict climate changeIt can take Mother Nature 1,000 years to grow a forest. But these scientists can grow one on a computer in just three weeks.

Crown shape representation in the spatially explicit forest simulator LES, and its predecessors SORTIE [2], TASS [3] and CP SORTIE [4]. SORTIE simulates the tree crown as a cylinder parametrized by the tree height h, bole height b and crown radius r. TASS model employs a complicated potential tree shape which has a cylindrical symmetry along the vertical line connecting the top of the crown and the root position. CP SORTIE also employs a radially symmetrical potential crown; however, the vertical symmetry axis is determined by the centre of the crown position and the crown-vector v [5] reflects asymmetry caused by phototropism. The LES model simulates tree crown as a hierarchical structure consisting of 10×10 cm pixels representing small branches, sectors representing large branches, and the crown-vector v [6]. Each sector i is characterized by its radius ri, living crown height ci and bole height bi.

SORTIE TASS CP SORTIE LES

80 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

CHANGING CLIMATE AND FOREST RECOVERY

For large parts of North America, climate change is leading to more frequent droughts, warmer weather and other varying natural conditions. What effect this will have on forests and their ability to recover from dynamic disturbances like wildfires or clear-cutting is difficult to determine.

Scientists know relatively little about the mechanics that drive forest recovery. The process can take several decades to document and involves trees with diverse physiological characteristics competing for resources over large and ecologically varied areas.

Strigul and Liénard plan to use LES to help forest managers determine which species of trees and other ecological factors are necessary for forests to re-establish themselves after being destroyed by wildfires and other disturbances.

“Drive an hour east along the Columbia River from Vancouver, and you will notice a complete transition from very dense forests to savannah and then to desert,” Strigul says. “The fear is that drier conditions in the future will prevent forests in places like Washington from re-establishing themselves after a clear-cut or wildfire. This could lead to increasing amounts of once-forested areas converted to desert.”

“Our model can help predict if forests are at risk of desertification or other climate change-related processes and identify what can be done to conserve these systems,” he concludes.

CREDIT AND REFERENCES:

1. Research paper: An individual-based forest model links canopy dynamics and shade tolerances along a soil moisture gradient – authored by Jean Liénard and Nikolay Strigul. The research was partially supported by a grant from the Simons Foundation and a WSU New Faculty SEED grant. The paper can be found at: http://rsos.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/3/2/150589

2. Pacala SW, Canham CD, Silander JA Jr.; 1993 Forest models defined by field measurements. I. The design of a northeastern forest simulator. Can. J. For. Res. 23, 1980–1988.

3. Mitchell KJ; 1975 Dynamics and simulated yield of Douglas-fir. For. Sci. Monogr. 21, 1–39.

4. Strigul N, Pristinski D, Purves D, Dushoff J, Pacala S; 2008 Scaling from trees to forests: tractable macroscopic equations for forest dynamics. Ecol. Monogr. 78, 523–545.

5. Umeki K; 1997 Effect of crown asymmetry on size-structure dynamics of plant populations. Ann. Bot. 79, 631–641.

6. Strigul N; 2012 Individual-based models and scaling methods for ecological forestry: implications of tree phenotypic plasticity. In Sustainable forest management (eds J Garcia, J Casero), pp. 359–384. Rijeka, Croatia: InTech.

FORESTRY RESEARCH

Drone images, 3D modelsReal trees are on the right. Trees on the left were made using imaging data collected by aerial drones and the LES forest simulator.

// APRIL / MAY 2016 81

PG Bison is currently offering the programme to 28 learners, who will be given an opportunity to advance through four forestry qualification levels.

The learners are paid a stipend during their training, and the company has committed to helping them find employment once they graduate – either at PG Bison or at a subcontractor. The learners will develop a broad skill set in theory and practice. This includes basic mathematics, fundamentals of communication and financial management, as well as subjects specific to forestry, like weed control and tree planting.

INNOVATION IN VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES

Brackenhill, which has residents living on company-owned land, is one of the communities benefiting from interventions by PG Bison. The forestry management programme is the latest effort to create employment by focusing specifically on the plight of unemployed youth.

Davey Carelse, the PG Bison HR and Risk Manager, says forests, be it plantations or indigenous, can best be protected by the people who love it most. “It makes a lot of sense to teach the local community, the people who grew up in the forest, about how to protect this precious resource. They know the look, the feel and smell of the land and have an instinctive urge to care for our natural environment.”

THE DIFFERENCE A FOREST MAKES

Baren Saayman (34) is a very committed young man. He has his sights set on becoming a foreman quite soon, or joining educational programmes in the area to help educate residents on their responsibility to care for the land. “I am on the course with people much younger than I am. In the beginning they were very playful, but once they realized the meaning of the door that is being opened for them, the seriousness set in. We can't wait to dig in and dedicate ourselves to this. I know what I want. I am here on a mission. I want to build towards something.”

For Saayman, forestry is like caring for a garden, be it natural or human made: “I walk into the forest and it takes me to an entire new world – another galaxy where I am free just to be myself. My brain opens up. It inspires me to make a difference; to care for my garden by managing the plantation, or removing litter from the indigenous forests to save the animals that live there.”

“We need to get back to the basics of caring for our environment. So I am here to make a difference.I was born in the bush. And if you were born here, you develop a love for the place. I have always wanted to contribute something. You can never run away from your roots. In some way or another, the forest will call you back,” he says.

LADIES IN A FOREST

Jacquelene Botha (26) is one of 17 female learners out of the group of 28. She has spent long hours working in plantations with her father. She explains that she finds handling large trees in a highly mechanized environment exhilarating. But the best part is knowing that her handiwork makes its way into South Africa's economy in the form of roof trusses and poles used in agriculture.

“The forest is like my own home. Yes, it is a challenge. But I am learning things that I knew nothing about. You do your part, and in the end you feel proud. You can stand back and see what your hands have accomplished for the day,” she explains.

“You can see a piece of work that would not have been done if you had not been there.”

FORESTRY PROGRAMME

Forestry programme equips new generation of guardians for Knysna forestsAn innovative programme in forestry management is not only creating jobs in some of Knysna's most vulnerable communities, it is also teaching locals about plantations and indigenous forests.

BENEFITS• The forestry programme addresses youth

unemployment• Young people get serious about caring for plantations

and natural forests• A vulnerable community is supported

82 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

FORESTRY BY-PRODUCTS

Small diameter thinking nets big prize of $100,000 Top honours in the 2015 Barrett Foundation Business Concept Challenge has gone to two initiatives that help create new markets for small-diameter logs produced by forest restoration. First prize went to the concept of using whole, small-diameter logs instead of milled lumber, while the second spot was taken by a new model for processing small-diameter timber that produces efficiencies.

The National Forest Foundation (NFF) – USA announced the winners of the 2015 Barrett Foundation Business Concept Challenge, a unique business plan

competition that awards the best entrepreneurial approaches that tackle the challenges facing America's 193-million-acre National Forest System. In first place came Whole Trees® Architecture and Structure, with Klickitat Community Forest Products coming in second.

The competition sponsor is Craig R. Barrett, former Chairman and CEO of Intel Corporation and current Chairman of the NFF's Board of Directors. He describes the purpose of this competition as, “stimulating new ideas and cultivating the next generation of entrepreneurial natural resource and business leaders.”

Barrett's experience at the helm of Intel influenced his decision to devote substantial resources to encourage the development of market-based solutions that solve forest restoration challenges. “In four decades as a business leader, I've seen a lot of innovative ideas, but not enough of them have been directed at the challenges facing our national forests. As a Board Member of the NFF, I saw an opportunity to channel this intellectual energy towards solving our nation's critical natural resources challenges,” he said. The competition provides a $75,000 cash award to the winning submission and $25,000 in cash to the first runner-up.

A WINNING CONCEPT

Whole Trees® Architecture and Structure is pushing the boundaries of architecture and building construction by using whole, small-diameter logs instead of milled lumber.

Photograph by Pär Pärsson

84 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

FORESTRY BY-PRODUCTS

Whole Trees® applies 21st century tools and know-how to the task of designing, engineering and manufacturing innovative round timber structural systems for commercial and residential buildings. By using cutting-edge fastening techniques and patented technologies, Whole Trees® allows builders to use entire small-diameter trees as a cost-effective, sustainable replacement for steel and milled lumber in numerous building applications. Small-diameter trees are a low-value by-product of forest management, and developing markets for this by-product has been a challenge for land managers and businesses. Whole Trees® advances the use of these products and creates a market for this material, while creating local jobs, improving forest management, and storing carbon.

ALSO A WINNER

Klickitat Community Forest Products is building a new model for processing small-diameter timber that produces efficiencies and results in increased profits and restoration of national forests. Using high-efficiency, low-impact, cut-to-length logging systems, logs are merchandised in the field and delivered, unsorted, to Klickitat's transportable manufacturing facility at a central location. Logs are then graded for four end products: variable-width pine and fir flooring, 1-2" non-graded S4S lumber, bundled and bulk firewood, and fence posts and agricultural poles.

By vertically and horizontally integrating lumber operations and capitalizing on efficiencies gained through this integration, Klickitat Community Forest Products will improve the end market for small-diameter timber, providing a critical incentive for increased forest restoration.

REACTION - AND RESULTS

The U.S. Forest Service supports the Barrett Challenge and the innovation it brings to forest management. “Both teams demonstrate a unique approach to removing a major barrier preventing more restoration work on our national forests,” said Leslie Weldon, Deputy Chief of the National Forest System. “By creating markets for small-diameter trees, the winning teams help create new opportunities for the forest service to achieve healthier forests and stimulate local economies. These are exactly the types of ideas we need to be nurturing across the country,” she continued.

USDA Under-Secretary for Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Bonnie, agreed: “Building markets for small-diameter trees can substantially boost our ability to restore national forests so that they are more resilient to wildfire and a variety of threats. The Barrett Challenge winners demonstrate that with creative and innovative ideas, there are business opportunities that benefit both the environment and local economies.”

The U.S. National Forest Foundation actively promotes the enhancement and public enjoyment of the country’s 193-million-acre National Forest System. By directly engaging Americans and leveraging private and public funding, the NFF improves forest health and Americans’ outdoor experiences. The NFF’s programmes inform millions of Americans about the importance of these treasured landscapes. Each year, the NFF restores fish and wildlife habitat, plants trees in areas affected by fires, insects and disease, improves recreational opportunities, and enables communities to steward their National Forests and Grasslands.

Source: U.S. National Forest Foundation

// APRIL / MAY 2016 85

Hoffman, the Programme Leader of Quantity Surveying at the University of Pretoria's Department of Construction Economics, is currently leading a study by ASAQS of the true cost of ‘green

building’ for the Green Building Council of SA (GBCSA). The study – which is well advanced – involves comparative costing of around 55 Green Star SA office buildings certified by the GBCSA between 2008 and 2014.

According to Hoffman, one of the greatest challenges facing green building in South Africa is fear of the unknown, particularly costing. He says green building techniques are often perceived as expensive and challenging to execute, although this need not be the case – particularly when full life cycle costing of building is added to the equation.

“Life cycle costing covers all the financial implications of building – from concept to end-of-life. It incorporates the costs of construction, materials, design, engineering, water and electricity tariffs, heating and cooling, repair costs, as well as eventual disposal cost or residual value. Quantity surveyors, as cost consultants, will play an increasingly important role to inform decision makers on green building. However, the responsibility for cost-effective green building solutions will have to be shared between quantity surveyors and the entire supply chain, including developers, designers, contractors, and end users,” Hoffman says.

"Quantity surveyors are essential links in the supply chain, as they are involved from initial design stage to the conclusion of construction processes. They can advise on the specification of construction materials, and also prepare and control budgets as well as expenditure,” he explains.

Hoffman believes educational institutions also have an important role to play to promote the cause of sustainable construction – by informing the entire industry of the availability of sustainable materials and technologies, and the benefits of best practice.

Going green, staying green All supply chain members have to share a commitment and combine forces to make sustainable building more acceptable in South Africa, says Danie Hoffman, a professional member of the Association of SA Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS).

SUSTAINABLE BUILDING

Danie Hoffman, ASAQS professional member: “One of the greatest challenges facing ‘green building’ in South Africa is fear of the unknown, particularly costing.”

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TREE STUDY

Quantifying the economics and water use of indigenous treesDo indigenous tree species use less water than introduced tree plantations? A recently completed Water Research Commission (WRC) project has sought to provide the answer to this important question.

South Africa is very reliant on its plantations of introduced tree species to meet its pulp and timber needs, and the benefits of this industry in terms of

production, income generation and job provision are undisputed. The downside is that these benefits come at some environmental cost, not least the impact of the industry on water resources. At the same time, the vast richness of South Africa’s natural arboreal diversity is evident in the more than 1,000 species of indigenous trees found in our country – and the enormous value of these indigenous trees and forests, in terms of the goods and services that they offer, is also widely recognized. And when it comes to water usage, there are widespread perceptions that indigenous tree species use less water than introduced tree plantations.

While data from previous studies are available on water use efficiency (WUE) of common introduced plantation species in South Africa, information on the water use of

indigenous trees and forests is scarce and indirect, and relationships between growth and water use within indigenous forests have only started to be investigated in South Africa within the last ten years. More information on the water use, growth and economic value of indigenous trees is required in order to facilitate sustainable land-use planning from hydrological, ecological and socio-economic perspectives.

New and innovative techniques to quantify the water use (transpiration and total evaporation) of a range of tree species and forest types are available, and these may be used to broaden our understanding of forest hydrological processes and their associated effects on water resources in this country. The overall efficiency of water use for biomass production and the net benefit of the water use are important criteria that need to be understood to permit the evaluation of different land use scenarios.

88 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

These factors motivated the WRC to measure and model the water use and growth of indigenous trees in different types of tree systems, and to quantify the economic benefits and costs of the biomass production under a range of bio-climatic conditions in South Africa.

MAIN RESULTS OF STUDY

The project conducted intensive measurements of tree and forest water use, stem growth, weather variables, soil water dynamics and tree attributes, as well as economic and financial assessments within indigenous and introduced tree systems. Research work focused on priority individual indigenous tree species and forest types, through six phases of field measurements and data collection exercises.

Results showed that the range and average of observed one-year water use totals (transpiration component) was noticeably less for indigenous tree species compared to introduced plantation tree species. Maximum water use was also lower in the indigenous species studied compared to introduced plantation species, despite growing conditions that could be considered ideal for most of the indigenous species sampled. Evidence suggests that indigenous forests cannot compete with plantations of introduced tree species for wood production, and this was confirmed through a comparison of the growth rates observed in respective indigenous and introduced tree species in this study.

In terms of growth and water use, it was found that while biomass production was much lower for the indigenous tree species, they also used much less water than introduced plantation species. Resultant WUE estimates showed substantial variation, even within a particular species. But, on average, results indicated that indigenous tree species appear to exhibit similar water use efficiencies to introduced plantation tree species. This supports the argument of a general correlation between growth and water use. While the economic viability of specific indigenous tree species could not be judged, the value of indigenous forests in the upkeep and maintenance of rural livelihoods appeared to be substantial.

Regarding the financial viability of a Yellowwood plantation, it was noted that the direct production costs were comparatively small relative to the opportunity cost of the extremely long term. However, the extremely long rotation period required rendered it uncompetitive against introduced species such as pine, unless it was possible to shorten growing periods (via breeding and selection programmes).

Additional challenges associated with the more formal indigenous wood market were found to be numerous.

These included unpredictable and variable supply, widely ranging shape, size and quality of logs, high harvesting and extraction costs, and unpredictable market demand. Consequently, this study represents an important descriptive presentation of the dynamics associated with the formal and informal indigenous tree product markets.

CONCLUSIONS

The relatively low water use characteristics of indigenous tree species suggests that they are promising for expanding natural and plantation tree production systems in South Africa, maximizing benefits (goods and services) while minimizing resource impact (water use).

Apart from the importance of accurate site/species matching, appropriate species for establishment need to be considered from environmental, social and economic perspectives. Potential benefits include suppression of alien invasive plants, biodiversity conservation, the provision of ecosystem services, supporting rural livelihoods, ecotourism and urban greening.

Given the increasing pressure on water resources and a growing demand for timber and non-timber forest products, further exploration of the numerous multiple-use indigenous tree species that are found in this country, matched to the wide range of existing climatic and site conditions, is merited.

There is surely potential for managed, productive and sustainable indigenous forest and woodland systems. Considering that further afforestation with commercial forest species is now restricted due to limitations in available land and concerns about reductions in catchment water yields, the possibility of expanding low water use forms of forestry with indigenous trees deserves to be explored further.

CREDITS AND MORE INFORMATION

Source: The Water Research Commission (WRC), www.wrc.org.za.

The study was undertaken by a team of researchers from various institutions, led by the CSIR. Additional funding for the project was made available by the Department of Environmental Affairs.

Further reading: To order the report, Water use and socio-economic benefit of the biomass of indigenous trees Volume 1: Research Reports (Report No. 1876/1/15) and Volume 2: Site-specific technical report (Report No. 1876/2/15), contact Publications at tel: (012) 330-0340, send an email to: [email protected], or visit: www.wrc.org.za to download a free copy.

TREE STUDY

// APRIL / MAY 2016 89

Guide to the properties and uses of Southern African WoodGids tot die eienskappe en gebruike van Suider-Afrikaanse Hout

Stephanie Dyer • Barry James • Danielle James ISBN: 978-1-920217-58-7 (English) 978-1-920217-59-4 (Afrikaans)Format: 280 x 210 mm; Extent: 336 pages; Hard cover, full colour

Price: R395.00 (VAT included, delivery cost excluded)

Why is this book so special?• The only commercially available book which focuses on the properties of

Southern African wood, written in a style that will appeal to a wide range of users• Illustrated throughout with more than 700 high-quality, full-colour photographs

and includes distribution maps• Provides information on historical uses, where trees grow, availability and

sustainability of the woods and the practicalities of harvesting and processing

A fully illustrated, scientifi cally accurate guide to the

characteristics, properties and uses of wood

from 120 Southern African tree species.

Briza Publications PO Box 11050, Queenswood, 0121, South Africa • Tel: +27 (12) 329-3896 • Fax: +27 (12) 329-4525 E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.briza.co.za • Bookshop: 121 Soutpansberg Road, Riviera, Pretoria, RSA

www.briza.co.zafrom 120 Southern African tree species.

A4 advertensie.indd 1 2016/02/24 5:50 AM

TIMBER CONSTRUCTION

Small house. Big heart. This small timber house for a writer and publisher is located in a remote village in the Western Cape. In the words of the architect, the atmosphere of the house is a direct result of the use of timber...with exposed rafters and loft joists creating visual rhythm and the natural pine cladding, ceiling and wooden floors providing a sense of warmth and refuge.

Thorsten Deckler, principal architect of 26'10 south Architects in Gauteng, loves working with timber and incorporates it as widely as possible in his work,

although the climate can limit more extensive use of timber on projects in the Highveld region. This project, however, presented an opportunity to embrace the advantages that timber offers in terms of affordability, speed of construction and its haptic qualities as a natural building material.

THE BRIEF

While tourism has substantially altered the character of its two nearest towns, the remote village in which the house is located seems to have stood still in time. Over the years only a few new inhabitants have settled on the opposite bank of the river running past the village. Most have set themselves up on plots where some grow crops and keep animals. All live off the grid in what resembles a ‘do it yourself’ type of self-sufficiency.

Photo credit: David Southwood

// APRIL / MAY 2016 91

The clients, who owned the property for almost a decade before constructing a carefully sited timber deck, dreamt of a refined but affordable house made out of timber. Rather than a prefabricated timber cabin or a Wendy house, they wanted a unique home that could be built by their local carpenter-cum-contractor.

The atmosphere of the house had to be in synergy with the seclusion of the surroundings, which comprises a river, a pond and a low-slung mountain range from which the wet and cold weather blows in during winter. Moreover, the house needed to allow for an uncomplicated, informal lifestyle that would encompass solitary stretches of time but also occasional gatherings and sleepovers by friends and family.

Deckler envisaged a design with the directness and simplicity of the one-roomed fire lookouts built in American national parks. He was particularly drawn to images of the one at Desolation Point where Jack Kerouac spent a summer as a fire lookout in 1959. This fascination, combined with fond memories of the compact but flexible VW camper van in which he spent many holidays as a young boy with his parents, provided a solid reference against which to evaluate a plethora of slick cabins trending on the Internet.

THE SPECIFICS

The main house has a footprint of 32m2 which corresponds to the structurally compatible part of the deck. Together with the loft bedroom and study and the two verandas, the house offers just over 90m2 of covered space, useable for most parts of the year. Sliding glass doors connect the house with the veranda, which in turn opens up to the surroundings by means of large sliding glass panels. The house can comfortably accommodate six people with the veranda and the two built-in sofas in the lounge (sized as standard single mattresses) used as additional sleeping space.

The compact kitchen is extended onto the deck and serves to cater to outside gatherings. The roofs over the kitchen and veranda do not meet, but form a small ‘courtyard’ to accommodate the branches of an existing tree. This space was glazed over by the clients, adding more useable space to the house.

TIMBER CONSTRUCTION

92 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

“Care was taken in detailing the house, with the logic of timber construction in mind. A Revit model in which almost every piece of timber was drawn helped explain the build-up of the house. We could also show how the cladding would terminate into corner posts and ridge beams in order to do away with fascias, which was done to lend the house an identity of its own and to sidestep suburban references, thereby rooting it to this special place,” Deckler explains. “In the same vein, the detailing of the veranda with glass in-between the rafters underscores the informal nature of the space and allows a soft type of light to strike the underside of the ceiling, ennobling the cheap pine boards.”

In the loft, additional work and storage spaces are created through the design of an angled balustrade that accommodates a desk and shelves. The balustrade supports are extended upward to act as midway supports to the roof rafters, which are lapped between the arms of the resulting Vs. Special attention was paid to achieve a seamless transition from inside to outside with minimal door thresholds. The use of the large doors allows the house to open up and take in the surroundings. In addition, the loft and steep roof add an unexpectedly grand scale to a compact house.

// APRIL / MAY 2016 93

TIMBER CONSTRUCTION

INSPIRATION

Michael Pollan’s book ‘A Place of My Own: The Education of an Amateur Builder’ helped to serve as inspiration to both the clients and the architect. It chronicles the design and construction of a small timber cabin to be used as a writer’s study. The author explores the parallel, disconnected worlds of architect, craftsman and client, and how these come together through the making of a building, carrying through a strong set of ideas and principles of building a small, well-proportioned and flexible house suited to its environment and users.

Timber was an obvious choice of material – for building on an existing wooden deck, for a speedier, cleaner construction, and for a characterful atmosphere suited to a ‘cabin in the woods.’

“We really enjoyed working with the underlying logic of timber construction. This helped determine how the outside and inside of the house would look and feel,” Deckler says.

Certain aspects of construction were left up to the builder and the client to resolve on site, on the understanding that the overall proportions, layout and tectonic would remain in place.

Some time after construction was completed, the owners invited Deckler and his family to spend a portion of their summer holiday in the timber home, which they comfortably did as a group of six.

94 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

TIMBER CONSTRUCTION

PROJECT TEAM

ARCHITECTURAL FIRM: 26’10 south ArchitectsARCHITECTURAL TEAM: Thorsten DecklerAnne GraupnerNicci LabuschagneIsabel van WykMatthew LeichtiENGINEERING INPUT:Mike LinningNicol LabuschagneGideon PeplerTHERMAL MODELLING & RATIONAL DESIGN:DatelconBUILDER: Tristan de GraafPHOTOGRAPHER: David Southwood

Describing it as a small house with a big heart, Deckler chronicled the positive experience on his LinkedIn blog.

Deckler is receiving much interest in replicating the design and believes that the compact nature of the house combined with the verandas renders it suitable to different sites.

The house is available on Airbnb.com (Suurbraak, Wild, off-the-grid).

For more information, visit www.2610south.co.za.

THE ONLY practical platform to showcase Digital Construction

10 - 11 MAY 2016

GALL AGHER CONVENTION CENTRE J O H A N N E S B U R G S O U T H A F R I C A

GET IN TOUCH +27 21 700 4300 r [email protected]

REGISTER BEFORE 21 ApRIL 2016 AND SAVE OVER R 1000!

Visit www.construction-it.co.za and secure your seats!

REASONS wHY YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO MISS THIS EVENT: 4

• How the digital construction can change the face of our construction industry

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Featuring over 15key speakers including:

Casey Rutland,Associate Director, Arup Associates, United Kingdom

Nathan Doughty, COO, Asite, United Kingdom*

Dr Eitan Karol, CEO, Louis Karol Architects*

// APRIL / MAY 2016 95

TIMBER CONSTRUCTION

WOOD ART

r1. gives expression to reclaimed wood Popular street artist r1. is widely recognized for his fresh and imaginative displays. Here, Timber iQ takes a closer look at the ingenious way he put reclaimed wood to work.

BROTHERS IN BENCHES

Downtown Johannesburg is a vibrant community but still endures many needs. When a resident programme was initiated to come up with new ideas and solutions to positively contribute to the community of the Maboneng Precinct in an artistic way, r1. was invited to take part.

The brief included the transformation of residents’ immediate surroundings so that they could engage with it in a creative way.

While researching and exploring the area, r1. met up with a local, informal upholstery and couch maker, Sam Sithole, who agreed to collaborate on the project.

Together, the men developed six movable and interchangeable benches made out of reclaimed wooden pallets. The design allows for the benches to all interlock with one another as part of one, singular structure.

96 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

WOOD ART

The benches were placed in various spots around the Maboneng downtown area for the public to engage with. Since then, r1. and Sam have repeatedly been approached by people with orders for new and replicated units.

BETTY FOX

This project was commissioned for a new grocery store, also in the downtown Johannesburg area of Maboneng Precinct. r1. had the idea to breathe new life into a neglected wall by installing 120 wooden panels onto its façade.

The mural stretches over 20m in length and 2.5m in height. It includes more than a thousand industrial steel bolts. The reclaimed wood was sourced from local informal businesses. The wood was treated and varnished and then rearranged into geometric shapes.

For more information, visit www.r1r1r1.net or send an email to [email protected].

// APRIL / MAY 2016 97

Admit one – valued at R495

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10 - 11 May 2016Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa

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Cement and concrete• Manufacturersandproducers• Suppliersofprecastanddecorative• Chemicalandadmixturesuppliers• Concretecontractors• Technologists• Engineering

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Network, do business and meet your peers300+ architects,1000engineers,500contractors,100quantitysurveyorsand240governmentrepresentatives

Maximise your exposureProductlaunches,sourcecompetitivedeals,gaininvaluableknowledgeoncuttingcostsandbeingmoreefficientontechnologyandequipment

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Bamboo - a surprisingly sustainable alternativeHardwood timbers have long been favoured for use in decking and cladding applications. But Moso International has developed and patented a manufacturing process called the Thermo-Density® method to make bamboo durable and suitable for outdoor use - and therefore a serious contender. In this article they tell us more about their innovation and how it has taken bamboo to a new level.

South Africa, with its favourable climate and outdoor lifestyle, has a substantial and growing market for exterior decking. According to Moso International,

some estimates put the market potential for outdoor decking at over 1.5-million m2 per annum. The majority of this decking (as much as 1-million m2 per annum or more) comprises timber of various sorts, which can be equated to

a consumption of timber of more than 20,000m3 per annum. Faster-growing timber species like pine make up a large part of this usage, but tropical hardwood species like Balau, Garapa, Massaranduba and Ipé, although more expensive, are generally preferred because they are harder and more durable than pine.

Private Residence Tossa Del Mar, Spain. Design: dosarquitectes Francesc Aromir. Photographer: Simon Garcia.

Admit one – valued at R495

Register online www.construction-week.com/register

and quote code TiQ to validate this voucher and get

FREE entry

FREE EXPO TICKET

10 - 11 May 2016Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa

∙

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www.construction-week.com

Endorsed by Key partners

Presenting sponsor Gold sponsor Silver sponsors Bronze sponsors

Co-located events

Like us on Facebook AfricanConstructionExpo and be automatically entered to win prizes at the event

[email protected] +27 21 700 4300

Over 180 exhibitors showcasing technologies and services

Cement and concrete• Manufacturersandproducers• Suppliersofprecastanddecorative• Chemicalandadmixturesuppliers• Concretecontractors• Technologists• Engineering

Construction• Buildingmaterials• Coatings,paintandchemicals• Equipment,toolsandmachinery• Procurementsupplychain• Housing• SoftwareandIT

and much more

Africa’s biggest gathering of

CONSTRUCTION professionals

Top 3 reasons WHY you can’t miss this expo!

1

2

3

See it, experience and test itIndoor expo: Fourpavilionsunderoneroof(Construction,Concrete,ConstructionIT,Civilution)andfreetrainingworkshops

Outdoor expo: Showcasingheavyequipment,machinery,livedemonstrations,accesstoexperiences-testdrivetrucks,drilling,brickbuilderscompetition

Network, do business and meet your peers300+ architects,1000engineers,500contractors,100quantitysurveyorsand240governmentrepresentatives

Maximise your exposureProductlaunches,sourcecompetitivedeals,gaininvaluableknowledgeoncuttingcostsandbeingmoreefficientontechnologyandequipment

Tuesday10 May 201611:00 - 18:00

Wednesday 11 May 201610:30 - 16:00

Parking

Freeoutsideparking

Expo hours

Address

19RichardDrive,Midrand,Johannesburg

// APRIL / MAY 2016 99

BAMBOO DECKING

As South Africa’s population grows, along with the rest of the world, the demand for timber is increasing. Even fast-growing species like pine require at least 15 years of growth before harvest, while popular tropical hardwood species like Garapa or Massaranduba can take from 50 to 100 years to mature. The accelerating rate of timber consumption is simply not sustainable. The global climatic effects of deforestation have been well documented, and are increasingly being experienced worldwide. A viable and sustainable alternative to timber, especially tropical hardwood timber, is urgently required.

THE POSSIBILITIES OF BAMBOO

Could bamboo provide this alternative? Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on earth – some species can grow by a metre per day! Because of its fast growth rate, bamboo has the potential to be one of the most sustainable and rapidly renewable construction materials on earth.

Over the past two or three decades, many companies and organizations have been experimenting with the use of bamboo in traditional timber applications. Bamboo makes up a small but growing part of the total ‘timber’ market, and is relatively well known in interior applications. Bamboo boards and panels are commonly used for worktops, cupboards, furniture, and cladding, while bamboo flooring is growing in popularity. However, the use of bamboo in exterior applications has, until now and particularly in South Africa, been problematic.

Private Residence Lotus, Lago Maggiore, Switzerland. Photographer: Daniele Kaehr.

Hotel 1898 Ramblas, Barcelona, Spain. Design: Nuñez e Navarro.

100 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

BAMBOO DECKING

Private Residence Lotus, Lago Maggiore, Switzerland. Photographer: Daniele Kaehr.

Over the past few years, certain importers have offered various types of bamboo outdoor decking to the trade, but these have all been unsuccessful. In some of the worst cases documented, the results were very bad failures. However, European company Moso International has countered these failures with a different approach.

A NEW SOLUTION

Moso International has developed and patented a manufacturing process called the Thermo-Density® method, to make bamboo durable and suitable for outdoor use.

The patent is based on two production processes, namely the compression of the bamboo strips and the thermal treatment. MOSO® experts have combined both processes in a new way, resulting in the Thermo-Density® method – the basis of the patent. The carefully crafted bamboo strips are modified at a temperature of about 200°C. After that, the strips are compressed and glued under very high pressure.

The patented procedure applies to the manufacture of Moso International’s entire outdoor collection, called MOSO® Bamboo X-treme®. The products have been extensively tested by independent European laboratories, against existing European standards for timber material.

The MOSO® Bamboo X-treme® material meets the highest durability Class 1, according to the EN350 norm. Tested according to the ENV807 (TS 15083-2) norm, the material can last more than 25 years in outdoor applications. In addition, MOSO® Bamboo X-treme® material was also tested according to the norm EN335 and is categorized in use under Class 4 (DIN 68800). This means direct ground- and water contact is possible without additional care or protection.

With these characteristics, the modified bamboo can compete with, and even outperform, the best tropical hardwoods such as Ipé.

Moso International manufactures a range of outdoor products suitable for decking, cladding, beams, and fencing boards in accordance with its Thermo-Density® process. The products made from this material are not only resistant to mould and fungi (0 Class according to EN152), but also extremely stable.

Because of bio-chemical reactions during the interaction of heat and pressure, with MOSO® products the use of fungicides or pesticides is completely unnecessary. In addition, the MOSO® Bamboo X-treme® outdoor collection complies with the fire class B-s1-d0 (EN13501-1), and thus can be applied in public buildings.

Tel-Aviv Promenade, Tel-Aviv, Israel. Design: Mayslits Kassif Architects. Photographer: Elad Gonen.

// APRIL / MAY 2016 101

BAMBOO DECKING

Michael van Houten, Product Manager - Bamboo X-treme® at MOSO: “With the introduction of the outdoor collection, MOSO offers a truly ecological and durable alternative to increasingly scarce tropical hardwoods for use in exterior applications. Furthermore, official carbon footprint studies executed by the Technical University Delft, have shown that Bamboo X-treme® is CO2 neutral over the full life cycle. The Thermo-Density® process gives a very strong and sturdy decking board that is superior in performance to the best tropical hardwood species.”

Moso International’s South African subsidiary Moso Africa, with its head office in Cape Town, started operating in October 2015. Already, MOSO® Bamboo X-treme® decking has been installed in projects in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. The decking is extremely stable, and does not exhibit the bending and warping that one might expect from conventional timber decking. It also does not exhibit the excessive expansion and contraction in the length of

the planks that is a characteristic of most wood-plastic composite decks. MOSO® Bamboo X-treme® decking is harder, more stable, more durable and certainly more environmentally friendly than any other timber or wood-plastic composite decking. In fact, it is probably the only CO2 neutral decking material available, the company says.

Installers are also finding that Bamboo X-treme® decking is yielding a cost saving of up to 30% on installation, as a result of:

• Wider joist spacing possible because of the strength and stability of the planks

• Less waste due to fixed plank lengths and robust headside tongue-and-groove joints

• Wider planks, resulting in more volume being installed per hour

• Hidden clip system, meaning no drilling and filling holes in planks

• Ease of installation means installation teams do not have to include skilled carpenters

Since being launched in 2008/2009, the Bamboo X-treme® decking range has become one of MOSO’s most popular products, with close to 2-million m2 of the decking already installed under varying climatic conditions in 44 countries. The growing popularity of the product can be ascribed to the fact that it combines a beautiful hardwood look with excellent performance.

The symmetrical planks allow a choice between having either the ribbed or the flat surface up. Like any tropical hardwood species, if not oiled and left exposed to outdoor conditions, Bamboo X-treme® will weather and turn grey over time, creating a very natural look.

For more information, visit www.moso.eu.

Jumbo Maritime Head Office, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Design: Meyer en van Schooten.

The Gas Museum – LEED Gold Sabadell, Spain. Design: Alarona Tècnics.

102 APRIL / MAY 2016 //

BAMBOO DECKING

Jumbo Maritime Head Office, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Design: Meyer en van Schooten.

11 - 12 August 2016, Cape Town International Convention Centre

Conference Trade Expo∙

Conference Trade Expo∙

ConferenceTrade Expo

ConferenceTrade Expo

CLIMBING TO NEW HEIGHTS INTHE WESTERN CAPE’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

www.cape-construction.co.za

• Meet professionals from the public and private sector from the entire construction value chain

• If you are a supplier or service provider and want to be a part of the Western Cape construction industry get in touch to sponsor/exhibit and expand your business network!

What to expect?

3500+ attendees

20+ hours dedicated networking

100+ exhibiting companies

40+ media and association partners

R1,5 million+ marketing coverage

Contact us todayand quote CCETiQto book your space

[email protected] 021 700 4356

CapeConstruction Cape-Construction @CT_ConstructionJoin the conversation

Organized by Acropolis Exhibitions, WoodEX for Africa will be held from 9 to 11 June 2016 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.

Stephan Jooste, CEO of Acropolis Exhibitions, says many of South Africa's biggest and most respected timber industry businesses have confirmed their participation in the event. To date, more than half of the exhibition space has been pre-booked.

“There has been talk in the industry that WoodEX will be incorporated with another South Africa trade show this year, but this is not the case. WoodEX has secured its position as the only and biggest expo in Africa focusing exclusively on the timber industry – and we are receiving huge support from our industry friends and associations, media partners, our repeat exhibitors, and our growing following from all over the world.”

“We are now reaping the rewards of relationships that have been built and nurtured over the past four years and we will continue to present a top-quality event tailor-made for our trade.”

THE WOODEX OFFERING

WoodEX will feature exhibitors showcasing innovative timber and woodworking products and services such as woodworking machinery, fits and finishes, decking, flooring, structured timber, timber treatments, sawmilling and logging, pulp and paper manufacturing, and wood material and veneer production.

This event is the perfect platform for woodworking professionals to connect with specialized dealers, to catch up with the latest timber trends, to secure new business contacts, and to compare deals.

“Our WoodEX organizing team is placing a lot of attention on social media marketing in an effort to reach our international target group, and these efforts, together with the exchange rate, have resulted in increased interest from European countries such as Germany, the Czech Republic, and Turkey. Lots of enquiries are also being received from the eastern African timber industry, from countries such as Kenya and Uganda. We are looking forward to an outstanding international event,” says Jooste.

INDUSTRY EVENT

On the calendar: WoodEX for Africa 2016 WoodEX for Africa is here to stay, is the message from the organizers of this important industry event. Preparations for WoodEX for Africa 2016 (the fourth edition) are well under way, with local and international exhibitors continuing to confirm their attendance. And with increased interest coming from African countries, the exhibition is gearing up to be the highlight on the timber trade agenda this year.

DO YOU HAVE A GREAT PROJECT OR STORY TO SHARE WITH TIMBER iQ READERS? Send your article and high resolution images to [email protected] or call 0861 727 663 for more information.

YOUR PRINT MEDIA PARTNER OF CHOICE, SUPPORTING LOCAL TRADE. CONTACT US: [email protected] / 0861 727 663 / www.trademax.co.za

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EXPLORENEW BUSINESS

OPPORTUNITIESAT AFRICA’S ONLY TIMBER MACHINERY, TOOLING, MATERIALS & FITTINGS EXHIBITION

9-11JUNE2016

Gallagher Convention Centre | Midrand | South [email protected] | +27 (0) 21 856 4334

www.woodexforafrica.com

Furniture & Kitchen production | Forestry & Sawmilling | Wood Materials, Machinery & Veneers Tools, Loggers & mobile Saws | Timber Construction and supply | Industry Surface & Treatment Technologies

Many more Timber related products, machinery and services.

Timber iQ April / May 2016 | Issue: 25

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