Timber iQ October - November 2019 // Issue:46 | Page 40

such needs to be adequately tied down to the foundation structure to be able to resist high wind loads,” Cronje explains. Using timber cladding as an example, Cronje elaborates further on what could possibly go wrong if, and when, standards are not properly followed. “From a design point of view there are also factors to consider when using external timber cladding. As it is not classified as a non-flammable material safety distances from SANS 10 400-T apply, so care must be taken to consider appropriate safety distances, as per the SANS tables, from property boundaries when using timber cladding,” says Cronje. For Bissett, the biggest mistake inexperienced builders make is underestimating the amount of work and required skill set needed to erect a home. As a result, these builders often run out of money before the job is completed. “Mistake number two made by most inexperienced builders is not reading up on the codes of practice for timber structures, which often has disastrous financial, safety and longevity issues for the prospective homeowners,” Bissett adds. Another common mistake highlighted is builders not taking adequate precautions against water standing adjacent to timber or pooling somewhere in contact with timber. “Coating of the structural timber beneath decks is often not done because it is not easily seen. This is short-sighted as it gets wet and takes longer to dry out because it is in the shade,” Bissett says. CONSEQUENCES OF INCORRECT TIMBER FRAME CONSTRUCTION According to Cronje, a timber frame is the basis for the rest of 38 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019 // FEATURES Building timber frames according to standards means quality timber frame structures. the house, and as such, errors in level or straightness will become obvious at a later stage once the cladding materials are added. Bissett points out additional consequences of incorrectly constructed timber frames. “Support poles, if used, are often encased in concrete resulting in a short lifespan as water www.timberiq.co.za