bowens builders bulletin july 2016

BUILDERSBulletin B

July 2016 Volume 29 No. 6

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Some Situations Demand A Risk Managed Approach Read more on page 4

bowens.com.au The Builders Choice

A WORD FROM JACK BOWEN

A Recipe For Using Wood

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

Digital Electronic Lever Lock

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PermaTimber™ QuickBoard 25

A Word From Jack Bowen

The above is not my quote but one from Ric Sinclair, managing director of Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA). The ‘recipe’ he refers to is the new 2016 National Construction Code (NCC) deemed–to–satisfy provisions that will now make it easier for developers to use timber in mid-rise building construction.

Ric has also said: “This is probably the biggest change or new market opportunity for wood in more than 30 years. It is equivalent to when softwood came in as a framing material and was starting to replace the hardwood frames, a change which occurred 30 to 40 years ago.”

There are three Classes of buildings where wood construction up to an effective height of 25 metres (roughly eight storeys) will play a role, both in traditional ‘stick framing’ and massive timber products, including cross laminated timber (CLT), glulam and others. Those three Classes of buildings are:

• multi-residential apartments (Class 2),

• hotels and motels (Class 3), and

• office buildings (Class 5).

Previous restrictions under the deemed-to-satisfy provisions were: three storeys for multi-residential and hotels, and two storeys for office buildings.

The key deemed-to-satisfy controls that allow this new use of timber construction under the new NCC are that: the building include automatic fire suppression sprinklers (making it significantly safer for inhabitants and fire fighters), that the structural timber be encased with fire-grade plasterboard (effectively deeming it ’non-combustible’), and that cavity barriers and non-combustible insulation be used.

The potential market for three to eight storey buildings (multi-residential in particular) is unlimited as governments continue to support high density living within inner urban zones, particularly around public transport hubs. Now that timber can be used to construct these mid-rise buildings the added benefits of lower construction costs, the amount of CO2 saved (compared to using concrete), the use of sustainable (renewable) plantation softwoods plus lighter buildings make a compelling argument for the timber industry in general. Some great examples of what can be achieved with timber construction are Lend Lease’s Forte Living building in the Docklands (Australia’s tallest CLT building); and the Library at the Dock, a three storey community hub and library in Melbourne’s inner-city Victoria Harbour, designed by Clare Design and Hayball. The $23 million project was awarded Australia’s first 6-Star green star rating for a public building. The structure was light, reducing the need for new foundations and allows the library to be built just eight metres from the water on a seventy-five year old wharf. The CLT and glulam that was used in the construction offer superb thermal performance and require less energy to heat and cool than other materials – all significant long-term benefits for a public building.

Nick Hewson, a structural engineer, previously with the company AECOM, believes the new code provides great opportunities for building on sites with poor ground conditions – characterised by either low strength soils or ground contamination. “Melbourne’s Docklands, for example, is largely built on Coode Island silt which is very low strength and significant money and materials

are spent on foundations alone. The average timber building could weigh half as much as an equivalent concrete building and large savings are possible in the foundations.”

In terms of the use of timber low to mid-rise constructions and the impact on the environment, Hewson gives the example of a Sydney project where they have calculated that the amount of CO2 saved by using timber, compared to using concrete, is equivalent to removing 500 cars from our roads for a year. Fifty percent of timbers weight in such buildings is stored carbon – and it can be recycled.

Whilst the 2016 NCC changes will provide new market opportunities for cross laminated timber, in mid-rise timber buildings the greatest opportunity for buildings up to around six storeys in height will actually be for lightweight timber and fire rated plasterboard systems. A great example of mid-rise lightweight construction is ‘The Green’, a five storey apartment building in Parkville, built by Australand (now Frasers Property). This project demonstrated all the benefits and speed of using lightweight timber construction, and particularly off-site prefabricated timber systems, these included the very safe and quick to install prefabricated floor cassettes provided by Bowens Timbertruss. The builder has publically quoted that using lightweight timber construction proved to be around 25% more cost effective than traditional reinforced concrete construction.

The use of speedy off-site timber prefabrication systems, with this reduced environmental footprint, will be an attraction to more and more design and construction professionals allowing them to experiment and create more interesting and cost effective design solutions for residential apartments and community facilities. Off-site timber prefabrication also means far lower-impact inner-suburban building sites, as buildings can be constructed more quickly, using less workers, and significantly fewer truck movements; a huge benefit to neighbouring buildings and families.

The timber industry has recently been very active in supporting the new 2016 NCC deemed-to-satisfy changes running national seminars through its WoodSolutions program for building surveyors, architects, designers and engineers in the lead up to the 1st of May release of the NCC. Seminars are now being run for builders and developers through the Master Builders Association of Victoria (MBAV) and the Housing Industry Association (HIA). A wide range of promotional and technical information has also been developed that can be accessed through the WoodSolutions website (www.woodsolutions.com.au ). Bowens is a major supporter of these new WoodSolutions activities, so if you have a new mid-rise apartment or office building coming up let us know and we can put you in contact with technical experts who can assist and answer any of your questions – we are sure that there is now a more cost effective timber construction system available that would suit your needs.

As was said at the outset “This is probably the biggest change or new market opportunity for wood in more than 30 years”. It’s a very exciting time for timber construction and Bowens are proud to be showing the lead. Where to from here is up to you.

Jack Bowen, Chairman of the Board of Directors

“A Recipe For Using Wood”

JULY 2016BUILDERS BULLETIN PB2

What’s New

The Manual Handling of products, tools and equipment is a significant contributor to the list of injuries which occur each year in Australian workplaces. Unfortunately, these injuries can be serious or even life changing. What is Manual Handling? Manual handling is any activity that requires the use of force exerted by a person in order to lift, push, pull, carry or otherwise move or restrain any animate or inanimate object.

Manual handling covers a wide range of activities including lifting, pulling, pushing, grasping, throwing and carrying. There are very few jobs that do not involve some form of manual handling.

Who is responsible for safe manual handling? A safe manual-handling regime at any workplace is a shared responsibility based on the cooperation of everyone. Managers and Supervisors have a responsibility to assess the overall safety of the site and everyone else must follow safe work practices.

What causes manual handling injuries? Weight is not the only problem when it comes to handling loads. There are many other factors that can contribute to injury, such as: • You need to bend, stretch or twist - e.g. Shovelling under a

conveyor • Handling large or awkward loads - e.g. Long pieces of metal• Loads are difficult to grip - e.g. Bear hugging a gas cylinder• Carrying loads over long distances or across cluttered or

slippery floors• Working in an awkward position - e.g. Crouching to weld• Working with your wrist, elbow or shoulder at its furthest

range of movement• Applying force repetitively - e.g. Hammering or using a saw• Applying force for a long time - e.g. Typing most of the day

What weight is safe?• A range of factors can make manual handling hazardous -

Not just weight. However, the following is a good guide only for people with average or better capacity.

• Your risk of injury greatly increases as you start lifting over about 16kg while standing.

• Weights over 55kg require mechanical aids such as trolleys or cranes, or possibly a team-lift.

• Don’t lift more than 4.5kg while seated.• Workers under the age of 18 should never be required to lift

more than 16kg.

How do you manage manual handling risks and prevent injures?The management of manual handling risks is an ongoing process.Wherever manual handling activity occurs, steps should be taken to prevent injury by a risk management process through the 3 steps of: • Hazard Identification; • Risk Assessment; • Risk Control.

Warm-up stretches may be done prior to each shift and where needed prior to returning from a break such as lunch or morning/afternoon tea. Warming up the muscles prepares the body for the physical demands of manual handling tasks and helps to prevent musculoskeletal discomfort and injury. Warm-up stretches should be done gently and not performed if they can exacerbate a pre-existing medical or physical condition.

Safety First - Manual Handing

JULY 2016BUILDERS BULLETIN 3PB

What’s New?

For over forty years Gainsborough has built their reputation on developing and producing leading-edge door hardware - innovative levers and locks that work silently to reflect your style and needs.

With their smart, design-savvy range they invite you to create harmonious living environments that reflect your individuality and personal flair. Gainsborough makes it easier than ever to live the way you choose.

and enter with style.

Digital Entry Lever LockSimply touch and go.

Gainsborough’s digital entry lever lock is the perfect solution to upgrade your security at home. Specifically designed for DIY installation, the Gainsborough digital entry lever lock allows for quick and easy entry using the illuminated keypad or by touching your touch and go entry tag.

Gainsborough’s digital entry lever lock offers the ultimate convenience and access to your home without compromising security. Entry is made quick and easy utilising the illuminated electronic key pad or by tapping/touching your RFID entry tag. The lockset also comes with a traditional set of keys for manual key override, giving you complete peace of mind.

The DIY electronic entrance sets are easy to install (even for the DIY market), retrofittable on standard 54mm holes and are available in Satin Chrome & Bright Chrome finishes.

Feel Safe and Secure

Product Of The Month

$249Incl. GST(Available in Satin & Bright Chrome)Features & Benefits

• The Digital Entry Lever Lock is the perfect solution to upgrade your security at home

• Easy to install (even for the DIY market), retrofittable on standard 54mm holes

• Available in Satin Chrome & Bright Chrome finishes

• Touch access with entry tag for simple and speedy entry into your home

• Keypad Entry

• Illuminated digital keypad can be programmed to up to six user codes

• ‘One-time’ user codes can be created for use by tradespeople, cleaners etc

• Manual key override for added peace of mind

• Powered by (4) AA batteries - no hard wiring required

BUILDERS BULLETIN4

At the forefront of style and innovation, Gainsborough’s Matt Black Range provides a blend of contemporary and chic; perfect for homes looking to showcase the latest trends.

The Matt Black Trilock highlights contemporary design at its best. Featuring concealed fixings, the Trilock provides a sleek, modern finish.

The Matt Black Trilock is available in single & double cylinder in Gainsborough’s GR9 profile, and can be project keyed upon request. The Trilock ‘3 in 1’ Locking mechanism has been awarded with an Australian Design Mark® for Good Design by Standards Australia.

Matt Black Trilock

Also available...

TradePro™ is a trade range from Gainsborough Hardware Industries, a leading distributor of high quality door hardware and access solutions in Australia.

TradePro™ is an affordable door hardware range developed for residential homes delivering security, quality and performance. TradePro™ is available in contemporary styles and finishes for the everyday needs of homes including entrance door locksets, internal levers & knobs, and deadbolts for added security. TradePro™ can be builder keyed and used with the Gainsborough GR9 Keying System for added convenience, delivering a complete solution.

Entrance sets are available in single & double cylinder in Gainsborough’s GR9 profile, and can be project keyed upon request.

Features & Benefits

• Exclusive to Natbuild Members, TradePro Braxton Horizontal Entrance Set features a contemporary style for your entrance and external doors

• Equipped with the added security of a deadlocking function

• Available in Satin Chrome and Bright Chrome finishes

• Available in single & double cylinder in Gainsborough’s GR9 profile, and can be project keyed upon request

• 2 Year Limited Tarnish Resistant and 7 Year Mechanical Guarantee

Features & Benefits

• The Matt Black Trilock has matching internal levers available in privacy, passage and dummy functions, for a coordinated and consistent look throughout your home

• Gainsborough Trilocks are unique in design, offering a combination of lockset, deadbolt and passage functions in the one system. This 3-in-1 technology keeps your home private and secure and makes your life easier with speedy one-hand access

• Solid brass double 5 pin Euro profile cylinder can be keyed alike to other Gainsborough products for same key convenience

Be bold. Enter with style.

visit www.gainsboroughhardware.com.au for more information

TradePro Braxton


Some Situations Demand A Risk Managed ApproachIn my February article I cautioned using timber coatings in elevated situations also taking into consideration the cost of further maintenance coatings required.This would apply particularly if the product (probably a cladding) is exposed to the sun, or in a north/west orientation.

In a case like this my advice is to discuss with us the possible scenarios that will give some longevity to the exposed finish desired.

I say this because the cost to maintain the product could be too expensive and a more appropriate product requiring less maintenance should be considered.

Similarly I recently encountered a quality problem where large section pergola timbers were used on the roof of a multi-story building. On investigation I found the timber used was unseasoned wood used in a north/west orientation. The upshot of it was a number of posts and beams were rejected. The cost to replace was significant mainly because of the location.

My suggestion is to investigate using a seasoned or part seasoned product. This will minimise movement and cracking. In the sizes usually involved this generally entails using a recycled product because new timber is not available in large sections.

Past experience would indicate many will decide to use the cheaper unseasoned option and discover much to their disappointment, post installation quality problems can arise, then the cheap price can become a very expensive option.

The above are two of the examples I have experienced. I suggest there are other potential problem situations that could arise, particularly if the use is in unusual circumstances. Accordingly, I suggest forward thinking is required when deciding the appropriate FIT FOR PURPOSE product. We are available to give that advice. The same approach should be taken to products I have often written about, products I refer to as “my notorious products”. I refer to a few extracts* from our detailed Suggested Guidelines that users of these products should be aware of;

• Floorings and Decking’s, particularly due to lack of ventilation, which is required to counteract damp sub-floor or sub-deck cavities.

• Factory pre-coating of decking’s and claddings will, act as a sealer to help minimise post installation movement.

• We now offer pre-painted Baltic Weatherboards. This is not only a cost effective (first) finishing coat, but also overcomes the problem of post installation shrinkage. In the past this would display the primer requiring re-painting the boards. Now, if the boards shrink it will show the finishing coat.

• Treated Pine sleepers, where many use this product to construct a structural retaining wall. These sleepers in the main have a cell structure that does allow full penetration of the treatment as well as not being structurally graded. They should be used in non-structural situations.

*The full wording of our Suggested Installation Guidelines is available on our website www.bowens.com.au

If you would like more information about this subject or technical support, Jeff Harvey is available on 0412 550 740 or email [email protected]

The cost to replace was significant mainly because of the location.

Ideally this problem would have been avoided if supplied in Recycled Timber.

To avoid the cracking the posts should have been supplied free of heart.


Expert Advice

RADLEY DE SILVACEO, Masters BuildersAssociation of Victoria

It doesn’t seem possible that we at Master Builders have nearly completed another series of our annual Regional Building Awards, but indeed we have. I’ve got accustomed to seeing a steady stream of outstanding projects from Victorian builders, and I think that is a good trend.

Over the past several weeks, we have staged awards events in Geelong and Albury, involving home builders from many communities there and in-between. As I write this, my colleagues and I look forward to the final event this Friday night in Traralgon, where we will celebrate outstanding building projects in the South East of the state.

Waltcon Constructions will receive that region’s Builder of the Year award for their work on a three-level Traralgon home that makes innovative use of masonry blocks and structural steel. What they have created is an interior that blends extremely well with the house’s green, park-like surroundings. The house features light-coloured finishes, tight-fitting joinery and the

Regional buildersin the spotlight

marks of a good builder throughout. We’ll be happy to help them celebrate their achievement.

Other regional winners include Malishev Constructions and Ballarat Construction Management (South West), Todd Newman Builders and VR Builders (North West), and Hedger Constructions P/L and Zauner Construction (North East).

As always, one of the great things about the Regional Building Awards is the broad range of projects it features, and the attention it directs to the builders whose work might otherwise go unrecognised. That’s mainly due to the fact that it is scattered throughout Victoria in some out-of-the-way places, and not everyone is fortunate enough to find them. But every house has a story to tell.

On the subject of regional communities, I urge you to look for our new Training Guide, which has been updated for the second semester and includes additional training opportunities for builders living in regional areas. Since we increased our commitment to providing this training last year, the response has been tremendous and we intend to continue adding to the opportunities to train with your colleagues in the communities in which you work.

Whether it’s training or awards programs, or some other facet of service to you, it’s our pleasure to help build your business and get you the work you’re after. There are numerous ways to make that happen, and we’re eager to share them with you.


Industry News

Secure Your Site...with the New BOS Quick Build Container

Winner 2016 HRIA Best New Product Award

Site security is such a huge issue these days. You could almost guarantee anything left on site unsecured won’t be there the next day. Tiles, tap wear, bags of concrete, expensive tools – nothing is safe. Even the mobile security cameras get stolen. Some builders have resorted to smoke bombs in their houses which are triggered by movement on site - but there is a better solution.

The new BOS Quick Build storage container recently won Best New Product at the 2016 Hire and Rental Industry Association Awards. BOS containers can be delivered flat pack to site and assembled by 2 people in under 30 minutes (the record is under 3 minutes!). Made in Germany from sturdy 20 gauge galvanized steel, the panels lock together from the inside making it virtually impossible to deconstruct from the outside. The doors are locked with an anti-theft galvanized locking system that prevents would be vandals jimmying the door with a crowbar or snapping the lock with bolt cutters.

In addition, unlike a shipping container, the BOS Containers can be delivered panel by panel to the back of a site or into tight locations. They can be delivered to a second story or inside an underground car park or building. They can be stacked three units high on top of each other or connected end-to-end or side-by-side. Then, when you need to move them, it’s a simple matter of unlocking the container, removing the internal locking pins and dismantling the panels. Alternatively, they do have a 4-way forklift system or lifting lugs for craning.

Problem solved – you can now store the materials you need to build on site and not have to worry about theft of loose items. And you can rest assured they are totally weatherproof but are also able to ‘breath’ to avoid moisture build up.

BOS containers come in various sizes including 2 x 2m; 2 x 3m & 2 x 4m containers. If you need a larger container they can be connected together or we can order in containers up to 2 x 6m. The height of the BOS Container is 2100mm externally and they take up to 3000kg. In addition they come with the option of access ramps, shelving, hose and cable racks or tool racks.

The BOS Quick Build Containers are available for hire or purchase through Bowens.We will deliver and assemble your container on site for you. They are a great solution to a major problem that is only getting worse. Lock up on site and save on theft, save time from packing up tools at the end of the day and rest assured you can complete your build knowing your materials are secure.

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Talk to Bowens Hire today for more information about our Hire products and services on 9720 6049


Bowens Hire

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JULY 2016 9


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Hastings 5979 1267Laverton 9353 7700Mt Evelyn 9736 2588North Melb 9328 1041

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Taylors Lakes 9390 8899Support Office 9796 3003Prefabrication Plants: TimberTruss 5244 8400

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bowens builders bulletin july 2016

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