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
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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
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