Steel Construction Vol 40 No 4 - Metal Cladding and Light Steel Frame

SAISC TECHNICAL High praise for SAMCRA By Alan Browde standard setting The Southern African Metal Cladding and Roofing Association (SAMCRA) has received high praise for the way it is helping to set industry standards in the metal cladding and roofing industry in the SADC region. This is according to Sally Stromnes, Marketing Planner and Co-ordinator for the Safal Group in Africa. “SAMCRA – and specifically its director Dennis White – is closely involved in the writing of improved building standards and providing significant guidance on best practise installation methodologies to the metal roofing and cladding industry throughout the region,” Stromnes says.“In order to have a world-class metal cladding and roofing industry it is essential that construction standards and materials are not only appropriate to Southern African conditions, but that they are also commonly understood and adhered to. In this regard Dennis, with his decades of experience in the field, is doing a sterling job to raise awareness and knowledge levels in the industry.” SAMCRA – and specifically its director Dennis White – is closely involved in the writing of improved building standards and providing significant guidance on best practise installation methodologies to the metal roofing She adds that correct and appropriate specifications are at the foundation of a successful installation.“Plain ignorance or a lack of compliance can lead to installation failures which have a hugely negative impact on the reputation of the roofing industry throughout the region. Although we still have a long way to go, there is no doubt that Dennis and his SAMCRA team are making a palpable difference to the situation,” Stromnes says. Stromnes emphasises that the two most critical areas where standards have to be effective, is in the installation detailing, and in tight materials specification. “Installation detailing and fastidious attention to on-site standards are areas where measures to save time or money will backfire very quickly. Flashings that restrict or can’t cope with roof drainage, compromises on material thickness, swarf and debris collection on the roof during installation, and poor sheet alignment and cladding industry throughout the region Steel Construction Vol. 40 No. 4 2016 11

Steel Construction Vol 40 No 4 - Metal Cladding and Light Steel Frame | Page 13