PROJECTS: ITC-SA AWARD WINNER
exciting to see those first timber A-frame trusses being lifted
into place. And within days, the anticipated high volumes were
formed over the classroom social spaces,” says Wolff.
Challenges and triumphs
The construction was not without its obstacles, notes Wolff,
adding that each challenge was undertaken with great care,
enthusiasm and skill. “Once all the detail, designs and
procurement logistics had been concluded, the construction
phase on site began, which had its own challenges,”
notes Den Ouden.
One of the greatest challenges was the spacing of the
A-frame trusses at 2 600mm centres and the walkway beams
having a cantilever of 3 000mm. “Armed with detailed
engineering, coupled with special bracket designs with fixings
to the built structure, we were able to overcome this. Through
engagement with the laminated beam manufacturer OT
Joiners we were able to get specific sized and graded laminated
beams for this custom project,” highlights Den Ouden.
He continues, “Working with timber has its challenges when
the product must be of a furniture grade finish. During the
construction phase, special precaution was taken to prevent
any damage to the large heavy laminated beams. Cranes were
used to hoist and place the trusses into position on ready
casted plinths – with each truss spanning 9m and with a height
of more than 9m.”
A cherished achievement
“In the end the project was successfully completed, and the
finished result is one we at Elegant Roofing are proud of. We
look forward to working with more timber projects of this
kind,” says Den Ouden.
Wolff adds, “The finished project is pleasing, and the end
user is very happy to be the inhabitants of this building. It was
expressed on many occasions that their special needs have
been adhered to in the design and construction process. We at
Wolff are very happy that we have contributed positively to the
day-to-day teaching [and learning] at Cheré Botha.”
CLADDING // CONCRETE // INSULATION // STEEL // THATCH // TIMBER // TRANSLUCENT // WATERPROOFING // COMPONENTS
OCTOBER 2018
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