TO BUILD Publication - Issue 2

To Build Handbook

issue 2

Issue 2 • April 2011

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FOREWORD

Issue 2 It’s been quite an exciting few months, working hard to have the first issue of the TO BUILD handbook published. What can I say?

Here you are, reading the second issue of the TO BUILD handbook, which promises to deliver excellence in exposure and quality reading material, to satisfy all the needs of our valued advertisers and readers.

We would like to welcome our new editor, Peter Muller, on board who is very excited and enthusiastic about TO BUILD. He is an Architectural Professional and his duty is to make all our readers excited about the content and the next issues to be published.

It’s been quite exciting working with Peter and the rest of the team to make sure this second issue of the TO BUILD handbook is a huge success. I am very happy that they share the excitement with me.

I would also like to thank our valued advertisers for their great support and ideas to make TO BUILD a huge success.

Now we are looking forward to our next issue which is due in July 2011.

Please visit us at Decorex: Cape Town, from 29 April to 2 May 2011.

Elroy

Best Regards

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Publishers

Issue 2 Media XPOSE excellence in exposure Shaun Mays Elroy van Heerden Cell: +27 72 365 4877 elroy@mediaxpose.co.za Tel: +27 21 433 1348 / 2309 Fax: +27 86 516 7277 PO Box 27337, Rhine Road, 8050 Editor Peter Muller editor@petermuller.co.za Editorial Contributors Peter Brown Nonhlanhla Mashego Lisa Taylor Amanda Gibberd DESIGN & LAYOUT CDC Design Tel: +27 21 704 3319 cdcdesign@telkomsa.net

ALMOST APPROVED

COVER ART Richter & Associates Architects CC

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ADVERTISING Rene van Heerden Tel: +27 21 433 1349 Content Co-ordinator Kaleigh Emin Tel: +27 21 433 1348 / 2309 Fax: +27 21 433 1349 Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or its agents. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, the publisher does not accept responsibility for any error or omission contained herein.

Consequently no person connected with the publication of this journal will be liable for any loss or damage sustained by any reader as a result of action following statement or opinions expressed herein. The publisher will give consideration to all material submitted but does not take responsibility for damage or its safe return.

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CONTENTS

Issue 2

Foreward 2 Editor’s Note 8 News and Reviews 10 Interview: What does the future hold for the Built Environment 14 Advertisers’ Index 157

SANS 10400 Part A: Friend or Foe

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Conditions during Construction

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Increased regulations = Increased costs

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Xeriscaping

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Stormwater: Resource or Danger?

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A floor is a floor… or is it?

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How small is too small

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Fire!

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Tyger Valley Shopping Centre to undergo major refurbishment

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Those vertical flat things

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Glazing: Some did blow away

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Lighting in the 21st Century

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Fresh air is not a luxury!

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Creating a safe built environment

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Divisions ARCHITECTS CONTRCATORS Landscape Architects QUANTITY SURVEYORS ENGINEERING: CONSULTING & STRUCTURAL INTERIOR & EXTERIOR DESIGN & DÉCOR FLOORING ROOFING WALLS WINDOWS & DOORS BRICKS & PAVING BLINDS, AWNINGS, SCREENS & SHUTTERS CEILINGS & PARTITIONING AUTOMATION, ELECTRICAL & LIGHTING AIR CONDITIONING SECURITY & FENCING TIMBER & DECKING FIREPLACES & BRAAIS PAINT & DECORATIVE COATINGS KITCHENS BATHROOMS FURNITURE CEMENT & CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION & STEEL GREEN BUILDING BUILDING PRODUCTS & SERVICES

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Features

Keeping warm without starting a fire

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Light reflectance and NCS Lightness

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Alternative kitchen plumbing

112

Part S: Changes and Progress

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Furniture, the unregulated built environment

123

Up and up we go

128

ASPASA: Benefits of membership

132

A new slant on roofs

137

Energy Efficiency in Buildings

140

Interbuild delivers a strong message for the future of timber construction

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Eco Log Homes: Building a Greener Future

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Editor’s Note

“Change is inevitable. Change is constant.”

Benjamin Disraeli The world is changing, governments are being overthrown, natural disasters are wreaking havoc. Change seems, often, to be accompanied by violence, devastation and misery. In South Africa, however, we’ve proven that change can happen peacefully. The 90’s brought about the biggest change most of us living here have ever experienced. Some were preparing for war, closing up windows and stocking up on groceries.

Others were getting out their party dresses and suits, preparing to take over power and celebrate. In the end, the change was inevitable, and it was peaceful. The world breathed a sigh of relief as we achieved something that few believed was possible.

The change of government also ushered in several other changes. In this issue, we will be focusing on some of the changes that the building industry is facing, or has faced recently. The biggest change facing players in our industry, from designer to developer, must surely be the amendment to the Building Regulations Act published in 2008. It appears that the wait for the publication of the Deemed to Satisfy documents, SANS 10400 Ed 3, Part A to Part XA is over. These documents expand on the Act, giving guidance on what is seen as the minimum requirements to comply with the act. Several parts have already been published, with the remainder nearing publication. There have been major changes to part A, part S and part T, with some changes to other parts and minor changes to the rest. The biggest change, however, remains the addition of part XA, which deals with energy efficiency in the built environment. We take a look at the most prominent changes, with contributions from leaders in the various fields.

In 2000, several new acts were signed into law. The Council for the Council for the Built Environment Act, the Architectural Professions Act, The Project and Construction Management Act, to name but a few.

These changed the way the professions interacted. We interview a representative from the Council for the Built Environment in search of some answers. What happened to the Built Environment Professions Bill?

What can we expect in the future? Minister Geoff Doidge did state, in 2008, that the withdrawal was only temporary. We also try to find out what happened regarding the Identity of Work regarding the Architectural Profession.

We will also incorporate a News & Reviews feature, where we will focus on elements that affect the built environment, be it technical, material development, industry achievements and the like. If you have any newsworthy projects, material, products, equipment or software that might be of interest to our readers, please forward the relevant information to us for review.

From the next issue we will ad another feature called “Project Focus”. We will focus on a building that contributes positively to the built environment through its design, detail, material use, sustainability or other noteworthy features.

I hope you find the information in this issue both informative and interesting. If you feel there is a building we need to look at, or a person we need to interview, send the information for consideration to editor@petermuller.co.za.

Peter Muller Editor

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News & Reviews GREEN BUILDING CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION, JOHANNESBURG Llewellyn van Wyk will be chairing the Green Building Conference and Exhibition which returns to Sandton Convention Centre on 13 and 14 July 2011. The conference promises to provide a powerful mix of international and local content for built environment professionals and stakeholders.

This year’s conference will include: • Exhibition space for over 100 design professionals and built-environment stakeholders.

• Presentations by various international green building and planning speakers such as Peter Clegg, Thom Mayne and Megan Holder.

• Presentations by various regional experts such as Llewellyn van Wyk, Nina Maritz and Neil Crafford.

• 3 design charrettes in the afternoon of day 2 will provide delegates with practical insight into planning and designing a green building.

For more information, visit www.greenbuilding.co.za

ZAHA: GETTING READY TO SWIM The 2012 Olympics is around the corner and the construction of the various venues are progressing well. The swimming pool complex, designed by Zaha Hadid, is no exception. ‘Fluid Geometry of Water in Motion’ was the main architectural concept, with an undulating roof, resembling a wave, sweeping over the pools. This roof, shaped by double curvature geometry, is placed on a podium, which connects perpendicular to a bridge element. The podium contains a host of cellular programmatic elements. The practice pool is located underneath the bridge portion. The roof is grounded at 3 points, with the remainder enclosed in a glass façade.

Balfour Beatty was awarded the project at an approximate cost of £303 million (R 3.4 Billion). It will have a capacity of 17 500 and will house two Olympic size pools and a diving pool. The most noticeable difference between the original design and the current constructed product, is the texture change of the sweeping roof. The rendered images of the roof appear smooth and sleek, resembling the curved glass roof structure of Zaha’s Nordpark Cable Railway entrance. The steel and metal sheet roof construction has a distinct ribbed appearance, that one might associate with contemporary construction techniques.

ANGLO AMERICA CAMPUS COMPETITION, JOHANNESBURG ReInvention, Anglo America’s architectural competition for the modernisation of their Johannesburg campus, was launched on 19 January 2011. The competition will run in 2 stages. Stage 1 will run between 1 February and 8 April, after which five finalists will be selected to take part in stage 2, between 11 April and around 25 June.

The competition brief asks for “a spatial intervention that will reaffirm its (Anglo America’s) commitment to the architectural, cultural, economic and social future of the Johannesburg CBD which will, in addition, also reflect the new brand positioning and visual language.” Through the competition, Anglo America envisage the modernisation of their entire Johannesburg Campus. The following are listed as the specific objectives: • Establish a timeless iconic statement in the JCBD; • Better integrate the Campus with the immediate urban context; • Create a contemporary working environment that provides an inspirational place for innovation and collaboration; • Upgrade the exterior and interior of the Campus components to increase occupancy levels by at least twenty percent; • Introduce environmentally responsive operation, spatial and technical principles • and preserve and enhance the heritage value of historical components.

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News & Reviews This competition will be the measure of Architecture in South Africa, as it involves the most important aspects of local architecture, namely, heritage, urban design, sustainability and creative design. The judges include well known architects; Anton Roodt, Khotso Moleko, Mira Fassler Kamstra, Mthulisi Msimang, and Ora Joubert.

CALATRAVA’S SPIRE BURIED

www.urbika.com

In 2006 Garrett Kelleher came to Chicago with big dreams. Dreams of becoming one of an elite number of people who can boast that he own one of the tallest buildings in the world. The Santiago Calatrava designed, swirling glass and steel tower, standing 150-storeys high, would have been the tallest residential building in the world and the tallest building in the United States. The 610m building required changes to the Chicago town planning scheme, but this did not pose a problem as the residents and the council supported the project. The high slender design would block less sunlight and obscure less of the skyline than the lower buildings for which the land was originally zoned, and it was designed to achieve a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold recognition.

Ground breaking took place in 2007, amidst opposition from Donald Trump who was constructing his own hotel and residential skyscraper in Chicago, and would have been competing for the same market share. In October 2008, the economic slump forced construction of the tower to be suspended. Several attempts to raise funds to proceed with the development failed, and court claims amounted to $118 million, were filed against the developer.

The claims included, amongst others, the mortgage lender, Anglo Irish Bank Corp, Calatrava’s design team, Festina Lente (IL) Ltd, as well as contractors and other consultants.

In December 2010, a Cook County Circuit Court judge granted a request by the mortgage lender to Kelleher’s Shelbourne North Water Street LP, and appointed a receiver to manage the site in Chicago, finally burying this project.

There remains a gaping “hole” in Chicago’s architectural skyline as a result.

INTELLIPEN PRO REVIEW In the professional environment you often find yourself in meetings taking notes, jotting down ideas or sketching that new award winning design. The IntelliPen Pro is a digital pen that allows you to do just this. It will convert your notes to text and your sketches to digital images. Unlike its competitor, the IntelliPen works with any paper, which is a definite benefit.

The pen comes with software which allows you to easily do the above. Your handwriting needs to be legible though, otherwise you end up with hieroglyphics. The pen can be used as an online or offline digital pen, or even to sign or comment on your MS Office documents. It is compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux-based operating systems.

The only negative while using the pen, was that excessive movement of your notepad during operation caused some illegible notes. The benefits experienced while using the IntelliPen far outweighed this negative.

For more information and to locate a retailer where you can “test drive” the IntelliPen, have a look at www.intellipen.co.za.

WIN

WITH TO BUILD AND INTELLIPEN: If you subscribe at our stand at Decorex in Cape Town, you will stand a chance to win 1 of two Standard IntelliPens!

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EDITORIAL

What does the future hold for the Built Environment?

We interview Mr Bheki Zulu, the CEO of the Council for the Built Environment (CBE).

He grew up in KwaZulu Natal and then obtained a degree in business studies in England. He worked in several high level positions, before joining the CBE in 2006.

The interview was informative but too long to include everything here. A full transcript of the interview is available for download www.petermuller.co.za.

ED: The Built Environment Professions Bill was withdrawn amidst controversy in 2008. What has happened to it?

BZ: The bill it was passed by the National Assembly, and needed only to be passed by the National Council of Provinces before going to the President for signing. At that stage there were changes in Government and the new Minister of Public Works, Mr Geoff Doidge, withdrew the bill, because he wanted to understand what the issues with the Bill were. He has since been replaced. The Bill is currently in the list of items that will go to parliament; most likely not in 2011 due to the consultation process it needs to go through.

ED: The Bill is still on the cards, and we will have to wait and see what will happen?

BZ: That’s right. Perhaps I must give a bit of background. A lot of the noise regarding the Bill came from the Professional Councils, as they saw it as killing the professions. It is based on the Health model, where the Councils become Professional Boards. There are several shortcomings in the current Built Professions Acts which trouble the minister and the professions. So even if the bill was not coming back, the professions would have made submissions to the minister to amend the current pieces of legislation.

ED: Can you elaborate on the compulsory registration and how the CBE enforces the regulations applicable to the industry?

BZ: Regarding registration, it was supposed to be compulsory since 2000. We had one issue with the Identification of Work (IDofW), which needed to be resolved. The scope of work of the various professions is the bigger boundary. It has been a difficult process but we are getting closer now. Then there is the IDofW for each category registered within a profession. The act also requires that we consult with the competition commission regarding this, as they see this as the limitation of competition, effectively reserving of work.

We want that work to be done by people who are sufficiently qualified. Once the IDofW is gazetted, those practicing without registration will be committing a criminal offence.

In terms of disciplining, our professional councils do the disciplining of professionals if they are not complying with the code of conduct. The act provides for people to appeal to the CBE, and the act regards the CBE as the court of first instance. Therein we make decisions on the issues that were brought to us.

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EDITORIAL ED: It has been 11 years since the acts were signed into law. In the Architectural Profession, the IDofW has been going back and forth between statutory bodies. Is this not the statutory bodies dragging their feet?

BZ: I agree with you that the issue of Identification of Work has taken too long. The acts require that the professional councils develop the policies and refer them back to the CBE. The CBE needs to ensure the uniform application of the policies, which were lacking. We have had challenges with getting to the level of complying with the policies. There has been some pulling within the profession, particularly on the issue of what categories can do, or cannot do. We however used competencies as the principle and not just qualifications. You need to link the qualification with the competencies. We also need to allow for the articulation of competencies. If you pick up the competencies, you should be allowed to do the work. If professions are saying that this has taken too long, they are actually 100% correct. I have been pushing internally here, as these things are dealt with by various committees. If you look at our programming, we should have gazetted this a year ago.

ED: With the current restrictions applied to the Architectural Profession categories, regarding work they can do, by a portion of a withdrawn act. This prevented registered professionals in the lower categories from doing work, they are capable of, generate the income they could, and also create more job opportunities.

Is it not in the best interest of society to force the IDofW through, stating that “it’s almost there, lets work on it after it is implemented”?

BZ: You are making a very important point, especially where there is that impact. In one of our past council meetings, we took a decision that the processes need to be fast tracked. The communication with the broader professions has also not taken place, which can lead to people not knowing what is happening with the IDofW. We have put processes in place to publicise what is happening, allowing people to get ready, to deal with their registration in time. We are pushing this and wanted it done a year ago.

ED: The previous act was withdrawn as a whole. This created a loophole and SACAP carried over the reservation of work from the previous act, the Architects Act 35 of 1970. This reserved all work, over 500m2 for Architects, and restricting all other registered categories from performing work they are competent to do.

BZ: The whole act was repealed. We cannot pick up things we like out of it and make them live. Clause 26.3.a states that you need to be registered and are then allowed to perform the work of whichever category you are registered as. There is no restriction in the act that prevents the technologist to do the work that the technologist is competent to do. The only restriction is that of registration, which after publication of the IDofW will restrict you from doing the work if you are not registered, within the categories. The people you are talking about, are registered?

ED: Yes they are, but SACAP is restricting the work they are allowed to do, with the carried over portion from the withdrawn act.

BZ: You cannot quote a piece from a dead act. Any lawyer will be able to tell you that.

ED: According to you, if you are registered with SACAP, you have Professional Indemnity Insurance (as required by the Code of Conduct) and you can prove your competency to a council, they should accept your submission.

BZ: Yes. The interview continued with more topics covered. We suggest you obtain a copy of the transcript and learn more about the role of the CBE and various other topics within the Built Environment.

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ARCHITECTS

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EDITORIAL

SANS 10400 Part A: Friend or Foe With the publication of SANS10400 Part A General Principles and Requirements, many of those within the Built Environment considered these amendments as a threat to their given social order. Many of these concerns were rather self-imposed and hopefully this article will alleviate many of those concerns and will see the implementation of the Parts referred to in the National Building Regulations (NBR) more as friend than foe.

This article will deal only with Part A, and includes the procedures that will have to be complied with by Built Environment Professionals, local Authorities, and the Construction Industry. Many of the requirements remain unchanged from the 0400 series, which has been in existence since 1977. The starting point should be to understand the philosophy and intent of the amendments and I quote the following from the document: “In order to understand and interpret the National Building Regulations correctly, it is important to understand the philosophy and intent behind the Regulations: • keep regulations to a minimum • concerned only with the health and safety of persons in a building • assist rather than impede the use of innovative building systems and designs • introducing the concept of two different types of buildings to cater for different user needs and expectations.”

It has never been the intention of the National Building Regulations that Building Control of the relevant Authority be the responsible body for the submitted work of the Built Environment Professional Having dealt with this aspect then let us look at some of the more specific aspects.

1. Application procedure Forms 1-3 An in-depth knowledge and understanding of the SANS 10400 suite of documents should have formed the core of the professionals services provided to the public. Many of the Parts have few amendments to the previous 0400 series, which the industry has been aware of since 1977. Those professionals that do have that understanding will not find it “onerous” but will generally be well equipped to provide a quality service and to ensure that the buildings they design, and see to completion, comply with the Health and Safety requirements under the Constitution’s Bill of Rights, Clause 24. Those professionals who understand their Social responsibility would welcome any legislation that ensures those basic rights of health and well-being.

These forms are not a “contract” but are a declaration by the owner and the professional as to how they will satisfy the functional regulations, and the naming of any competent person required to do a rational design, if required. In addition, both are required to notify the Local Authority if there are any changes as to how the functional regulations are satisfied, or if there is a change in the competent person.

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Mpumalanga Office: 104 Belmont Villas, Louis Trichard, Nelspruit, 1200 Tel: 013 752 3763 Fax: 013 752 3760 Polokwane Office: Suite No 1 Biccard Park, 43 Biccard Street, P O Box 3768, Polokwane, 0700 Tel:015 291 5499 Fax: 015 291 5550

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EDITORIAL Any “contract” is the one entered into between the Owner and Professional that complies with the SACAP Code of Conduct. Under that code, all registered professionals are required to enter into a contract.

If not, then they are in breach of the Code and could be subject to an investigation by the Council.

Ed: The SANS 10400: Part A forms are available for free download from the SABS website at: https://www.sabs.co.za/index.php?page=standardsforms 2. RESPONSIBILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY It has never been the intention of the National Building Regulations that Building Control of the relevant Authority be the responsible body for the submitted work of the Built Environment Professionals. They are there to ensure that the public have complied with the requirements of the applications of the various parts referred to in the National Building Regulations, and requirements of any other applicable legislation.

It has always been a requirement, and is even more so now, that the Built Environment Professional complies with legislation prior to submission to the Authority for approval. However, after having conducted workshops nationwide over the past two years, and having addressed some 2 500 Professionals we have established, from the data collected, that only between 5% and 10% are aware of these requirements. The implementation of the SANS 10400 series will go a long way to ensuring that the responsibility has reverted back to where it was originally intended.

We are however encouraged that the majority of those addressed have committed themselves to providing a more excellent service to the public.

Kindly bear in mind that this Regulation, and its various parts, is not a requirement of the Local Authority, but of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS). Building Control seems to come under constant unjust criticism from the public because they are required to enforce the legislation. However, it may be of interest to you that the Building Control Officers National Committee was formed on 8 December 2010, and part of their mandate is to apply the NBRs uniformly across the Nation. You are most welcome to contact the Chairman, Mr Marius Lourens, from the Cape Metropole, who will be able to provide you with additional information.

In addition we would also suggest that you contact Mr Rudolf Opperman, from the (NRCS), who would be able to provide you with more accurate information regarding the steps that have been taken to ensure compliance with the Regulator’s requirements.

In order to continue to provide the Built Environment professionals with a better understanding of Part A, we will continue to run our workshops in 2011 in various centres across the Nation. The dates and venues can be obtained from our website www.saiat.org.za.

Peter Brown, President, SAIAT • www.saiat.org.za

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CONTRACTORS

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Creating an experience rather than a product.

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EDITORIAL

sxu.hu

Conditions during construction!

The building regulations provides specific requirements that needs to be complied with on a construction site. These regulations are to ensure safe and healthy working conditions on any construction site and to protect the general public, over and above the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The deemed to satisfy rules of the regulations, SANS 10400 Part F, give guidance only on three items.

These are the provision of sanitary fittings, protection against subterranean termite activity, and stormwater disposal. The building regulations go much further, and require that the following also be attended to as contained in the amendment to the act: All public must be protected against any construction hazards, by the provision of a fence, hoarding or a barricade, as required by the local authority. This must be maintained in a safe and secure condition until the completion of the construction. The local authority may impose further conditions to ensure the safe use of the area surrounding a site. It is also a specific condition that all construction work must be confined to the site, and must not encroach upon, or over, any street or public place, unless prior approval has been obtained from the relevant local council.

The regulations also specify the requirements where any local authority property could be damaged by construction or excavations, or is already damaged. The local authority may require a deposit or security of the costs of any repairs that might be required in case of damage. If no deposit or security has been paid, the owner of the development must pay for any repairs required.

If any ground or environmental conditions exist that might affect the site’s integrity, such as contaminated land or unstable land, the owner must have a competent person, as defined by the regulation, do a geotechnical investigation.

Noise and dust levels must be controlled according to the regulations. To affect this, the regulation states certain periods during which construction may be performed, where the construction may unreasonably disturb or interfere with the amenity of the neighbourhood. In a situation where life, safety and health of any person, or the preservation of a property is urgently required, the periods for construction does not apply.

Waste material on site and cleaning of the site are also regulated in Part F, with specific conditions to ensure a safe environment. The local authority may instruct the removing of rubble and cleaning of a site as it deems necessary.

Specific conditions relating to Builder’s Sheds are also provided. The local council must approve the position and the construction of said sheds. When a shed is no longer required, for whatever reason, such shed must be removed. It further states that only security personnel may be accommodated on site in a shed, but under specific conditions.

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QUANTITY SURVEYORS

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EDITORIAL

Increased Regulations = Increased Costs? “How much will the changes in the regulations cost me?� This must be foremost in the minds of most developers and those intending to build. Even though the changes have been minimal as far as most regulations are concerned, those in Parts A, S, T and the new XA will have the biggest financial implications.

Part A: The changes to Part A of the new regulations require that all building projects must be executed under the auspices of professional, competent persons, from start to finish. The relevant competent persons must also take full responsibility regarding compliance to the National Building Regulations. This will cause an increase in consultant fees to cover the various work stages and extended time involved, as well as to cover the increased risk.

Part S: Three major changes incorporated in Part S; stairs, provision of accessible toilets, and ramps will have a large influence on development costs.

The maximum stair riser height is reduced to 170mm while open risers are no longer allowed in stairs accessible by disabled persons. It is now also a requirement that handrails must be provided on both sides of these stairs.

Provision must now be made in toilet facilities, for the first toilet in any group of toilets to be an accessible toilet, where the toilet group can be accessed by persons with a disability. It is noteworthy that the document does not imply that these toilets must only be provided where wheelchair access is possible.

Ramps are now restricted to a maximum vertical change of 500mm between landings, compared to the 1 500mm in the previous rules. They must, further, be stepped at a landing, and cannot be placed in a continuous straight line where the change in level is more than 600mm.

These changes will affect the building area, as well as increase fittings required, this will affect project costs.

Part T: Several changes were made to part T, with the biggest being that all materials need to be tested according to the various parts of SANS 10177, to determine their fire classifications. Another big change is to the required width of escape passages. If it can be used by a person in a wheelchair, a passage must be 1500mm wide, no matter what the design or the actual population that the passage is designed for. A further addition is the inclusion of refuge areas for each staircase on each storey, where required.

Part XA: With the inclusion of Part XA in the regulations, dealing with energy efficiency in buildings, several new aspects are covered. Insulation under heated floors, specific wall design to achieve the required thermal resistance values, and so on. Two areas are very specific and will increase costing. Firstly, 50% of all hot water generation must be from a source other than electrical resistance heating. This is generally interpreted as meaning solar geysers, even though there are various other methods available. Secondly, the performance of glazing elements must meet very specific requirements as far as Solar Heat Gain Coefficient and Thermal Resistance are concerned.

The cost implications caused by the above can be minimised by using professionals who have gained sufficient knowledge in current and alternative technology and creative design solutions, based on the published SANS 10400 Parts. For the requirements relating to each part of the regulations, the Deemed to Satisfy rules contained in the SANS 10400 edition 3 series of documents must be consulted and complied with.

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STRAPHEAD

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

www.tobuild.co.za

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EDITORIAL

www.prairiegardens.ca

Xeriscaping Saving Water

In 2010, Part X – Environmental Sustainability, was incorporated into the National Building Regulations.

Even though only Section XA – Energy Efficiency has been published, work has already started on Section XB – Efficient Water Use in Buildings. This is still an unknown in the built environment and whether or not it will affect gardening remains to be seen.

We are currently living in a country where fresh water is becoming scarce, and fresh water supply has diminished worldwide. The above regulation, when promulgated, will ensure that we all contribute to the saving of water. In record of a presentation held in 2010 by the NRCS (National Regulator Compulsory Specifications), three points that the regulations could focus on were raised: 1. Conserve the water we have – this can be achieved by using taps which have been rated as a water efficient device or dual flush WC pans.

2. Add water – Rainwater harvesting, which can be used for toilet flush systems and laundry.

3. Reuse water – Recycling black, yellow and grey water in various treated forms.

Xeriscaping is taken from the Greek word “xeros”, meaning “dry”, and landscaping. This does not refer to desert conditions with cacti, or to drought plagued, barren landscapes, but rather to gardens with plants that suit the climate, region and conditions where they are planted, and, therefore, do not require additional watering.

The advantages of this are multi-fold and include the following: • Reduced water consumption; • Reduced maintenance requirements; • Best rain water retention through correct planting, soil grading and mulching; • Reduced use of compost and pesticides; • Reduced pollution due to reduced energy requirements; and • Improved indigenous wildlife habitation.

Generally Xeriscaping is based on 7 principles, called the Denver program Seven Principles.

1. Plan and design your site, for example, by using tough plants in areas exposed to full day sun.

2. Soil amendment by using compost, manure and leaf mould.

3. Efficient irrigation, for example, by using drip irrigation and not sprinklers, watering at irregular intervals.

4. Appropriate plant selection, by selecting native or adaptive plants, and by grouping plants with similar water needs together.

5. Using Mulch, which reduces evaporation and keeps the soil cool.

6. Alternative turf, for example, having manageable area size, shape, and by using the right drought resistant grasses.

7. Maintenance, such as, watering, weeding, pruning, deadheading and sensible pest management will all factor into the quality of your garden.

Xeriscaping allows you to develop a garden that will thrive, while reducing water consumption. Selecting indigenous plants for the region and conditions in which you live, will mean they will continue to grow in drought conditions once they have had an opportunity to establish themselves. No plant will survive forever without water, but selecting the right plants will allow them to continue to grow in drought conditions.

www.mediaxpose.co.za

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STRAPHEAD

ENGINEERING: CONSULTING & STRUCTURAL

www.tobuild.co.za

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sxu.hu

EDITORIAL

Stormwater: Resource of Danger

Flash floods are wreaking havoc on built infrastructure throughout South Africa. Every rain storm has within it, all it needs to cause chaos. Gauteng is know for it’s afternoon “highveld” storms. It is also the area that is most developed, as it is the economic centre of South Africa. These two, combined, are a recipe for disaster.

What causes these flash floods? Why are they so destructive? The answer is pretty simple, and can be addressed through good design and planning of the built environment.

Earth’s natural means of dealing with stormwater, is through the grounds, absorption and, when saturated, some surface run off. With man’s intervention, through the built environment, the ability of the ground to absorb water has been tremendously reduced. Roads, paving and roof areas cover the natural ground and leads to concentrated stormwater.

The vast expanse of tarred and paved parking areas at shopping malls, is one example of this. The area becomes a stormwater collection area, similar to when a roof is used to collect water for reuse. This concentrates the stormwater, before it is released into the local stormwater system. The fast pace of these and other developments exacerbate this problem. The existing infrastructure is unable to accommodate the large volume of water. This leads to flash floods further down the system, either the natural drainage system or built drainage system.

Several local councils have published regulations that require the construction of attenuation ponds to address this. Designed by Civil Engineers, these ponds collect water and release it at a reduced flow rate into the stormwater system. This only addresses a part of the problem, as roads and smaller developments, are not required to construct the same system, and contribute a significant amount of water into the system.

Garbage, like paper and plastic aggravate this problem. Every rain shower washes all the surface garbage into the stormwater system, which leads to blockages in the network. This forces the stormwater to find alternative routes, causing rivulets to develop. These would then congregate and become a raging river, not only flooding places, but also damaging property and sometimes causing the loss of life.

The application of the new Building Regulations, as contained in SANS 10400 - Part R, provides specific requirements on how to deal with stormwater on site, including buildings, with additional regulations for complex developments. It specifies a list of damage that stormwater may not cause. It however does not give clear guidance on how to prevent these.

One point in the SANS 10400 Part R document that needs to be high lighted, is that all local authority regulations regarding stormwater installation must be complied with. It further specifies that, where a stormwater installation must be designed, a Civil Engineer must do the design.

www.mediaxpose.co.za

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EDITORIAL

A floor is a floor ... or is it?

The National Building Regulations, Act 103 of 1977, which has been amended several times, deals with most components of the built environment. Flooring is no exception. Part J addresses the regulations regarding floors. The application of the building regulations, however, are dealt with under several parts of the SANS 10400 documents.

The regulations prescribe specific conditions that various flooring systems must comply with. These are: • A floor must be designed so that it supports itself and perform the function it is designed for. It must also comply with relevant fire resistant requirements.

• Any floor in wet areas, such as a laundry, kitchen, bathroom, etc. must be water resistant.

• A suspended timber floor must have sufficient under floor ventilation.

• A concrete floor supported on ground or filling must be designed such that moisture does not penetrate the floor slab.

With sustainability becoming more important in the built environment, suspended timber flooring could make a return to main stream construction.

Part J of the SANS 10400 document seems to focus on the design and requirements of a suspended timber floor system, with some references to the other requirements. With sustainability becoming more important in the built environment, suspended timber flooring could make a return to main stream constructions, especially in the residential market. The SANS document specifically addresses the structural requirements of joists, fixing of joists, and timber flooring plank thickness. The ventilation is critical for the performance of a timber floor, which is why it is specifically included in the National Building Regulations.

References are made to SANS 10400 – Part B regarding the structural design of floors. Part H – regarding floors that form part of foundations. Part T – as far as fire classification is concerned. Specific reference to Part V is also made regarding timber floors in the vicinity of fire places. The one part that is not addressed in the document is floor finishes. This is partially addressed under Part S, only insofar as slip resistance of floors are concerned.

One further area, covered by the building regulation, is the provision of insulation under floor slabs where in floor heating forms part of a floor. This is included in Part XA. Floors could further play a role in achieving indoor comfort, as they can contributes to thermal mass, meaning that they could absorb heat during the day and release it at night.

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STRAPHEAD

INTERIOR EXTERIOR DESIGN & DéCOR DESIGN

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EDITORIAL

How small is too small?: With building costs on the rise and the current tendency for sites to be smaller, buildings, and the rooms in them, are also becoming smaller. The building regulations, Part C, puts specific minimums on dwellings and habitable room sizes as well as room heights. There were no changes to the requirements from the previous edition of the building regulations, except for the inclusion of specific allowance for Category 1 buildings.

The minimum dwelling sizes remain unchanged, with any temporary dwelling being a minimum of 15m2 and permanent dwelling 30m2. Category 1 buildings have both a minimum and maximum size restriction, with a minium of 27m2 and a maximum of 80m2.

Category 1 buildings are defined as a building of the following classes - Places of instruction (A3), Worship (A4), Small shop (F2), Offices (G1), Dormitory (H2), Domestic residence (H3) or Dwelling House (H4); it has no basement and has a maximum length of 6,0m between intersecting walls or members providing lateral support, as well as the maximum size as mentioned above. There are further performance differences between Category 1 buildings and other buildings, such as they: • might require more frequent maintenance; • a llow for greater deflection and deviation from the horizontal and vertical, without impairing structural performance and safety; • m ay suffer greater damage to walls and floors of a minor nature and be repaired during redecoration; • h ave no prohibition in the case of poor thermal performance, as long as it can be demonstrated that the building can be upgraded to a non-Category 1 building, without a complete rebuild; • m ay experience minor ingress of rain in major storms, but with no permanent damage; • m ay be susceptible to hail damage in severe hailstorms, except normal glazing elements; • m ay have a reduced resistance to local damage and soft body impact, without compromising the safety of the structure under normal circumstances; • a llow for greater construction tolerances; and • c an have reduced opening (window) sizes for occupancies E2, H3 and H4 only.

The minimum requirements for habitable rooms remained unchanged. The minimum dimensions of habitable rooms for all occupancies remains 6m2, with no linear dimension under 2 metres. Kitchens, sculleries and laundries are excluded from this area restriction. Different provision is made for changing rooms in occupancies B (Commercial Buildings), D (Industrial Buildings) and J (Storage Facilities). The room sizes mentioned above exclude built in cupboards, and are measured from unplastered to unplastered wall. Rooms divided by a partition that covers less than 60% of the dividing plane, will also be measure as one room.

Room heights also remain the same, with specifics listed in table form for different usage. A further restriction of any protrusion into the room given as 2.1 metres. Under specific conditions, a portion of a bedroom height can be reduced to 1.8 metres.

The regulations make provision for the minimum dwelling to be a habitable room and a separate room with toilet facilities. The minimum requirement provided for, is in the interest of providing affordable housing, with the intention that such a small dwelling will be a temporary structure, that will be increased to something more reasonable in size at a future date.

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www.uniquestone.co.za

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STRAPHEAD

FLOORING

www.tobuild.co.za

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EDITORIAL

Fire!

Several persons died in a tragic fire in a Cape Town fire recently.

Several large companies suffered major losses, including lives, in building fires over the past few years. The dangers fire hold for the built environment and its occupants are obvious and can be seen in the above. Following on these tragic events, several alterations have been proposed to the building regulations.

With this in mind, the building regulations have been amended to reduce the inherent risks involved in the built environment. The publication of edition 3 of SANS 10400 - Part T, is the culmination of several years of work addressing this. SANS 10177 parts 1 to 11 have also been researched, developed and published.

These documents, referenced extensively in Part T, deals with the testing of, and classification of materials used in the built environment.

Similar to other parts of the SANS 10400 series of documents, there has been special allowances made for category 1 buildings in Part T, reducing the requirements applicable. Category 1 buildings are described in more details on page 42.

Part T also added a note, stating that the provisions of the requirements are modelled around certain common types of buildings and are not intended for buildings higher than 10 storeys, large shopping centres, airport terminals and petrochemical facilities. For these buildings a fire rational design must be done by a competent person (fire engineering).

The requirements of the SANS 10400 document covers most of the items previously covered. Some of these requirements have been updated or expanded to address new technology, materials and application thereof.

The requirement categories are amongst others: Safety distances; Fire stability of structural elements or components; Protection of openings; Raised access and suspended floors of combustible material; Roof assemblies and coverings; Ceilings; Floor coverings; Internal finishes; Provision of escape routes; Exit doors; Basements; Stairways and other changes of level along escape routes; Openings in floors; External stairways and passages; Lobbies, foyers and vestibules; Provision of emergency lighting; Fire detection and alarm systems; Hose reels; Hydrants; Automatic sprinkler and other fixed extinguishing systems; Portable

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EDITORIAL fire extinguishers; Protection in service shafts; Lift shafts; Firemen’s lifts; Stretcher lift; Stage and backstage areas; Seating arrangements in auditoriums or halls and on grandstands; Parking garages; Access for fire fighting and rescue purposes; Presumed fire resistance of building materials and components; and Building materials.

The dangers fire hold for the built environment and its occupants are obvious…

One of the changes incorporated in this edition of the SANS document is the provisions for occupancy H5 - Guest Houses and Bed and Breakfast Accommodation. A new building occupancy category included in Part A of the Regulations. The specific requirements applicable to this occupancy, over and above complying with all the other requirements mentioned above are: • Provision of escape signage in all passages; • Provision of suitable emergency light fittings in all passages leading to an exit; • Provision of suitable smoke alarms that is audible in all areas, including each sleeping room, kitchen and central points to all passage; • Provision of a hose reel; • Have doors leading to the outside of the building with locks that can be opened without special tools.

Further to the above, the new additions recommend that the following be provided: An approved emergency plan and evacuation route mounted on the back of every room door to inform guests; What action must be taken by a person discovering a fire; What action must be taken by persons during evacuation to assure accountability of the occupants.

These are currently included as recommendations only, and not regulations.

The regulations makes provision for the Local Authority, if in their opinion, a fire rational design is required, to request that from the owner.

For more information on the above requirements, it is recommended that a copy of the SANS 10400 Part T document be obtained from the SABS.

www.mediaxpose.co.za

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STRAPHEAD

ROOFS

www.tobuild.co.za

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3/28/11 5:45:23 AM

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3/28/11 5:45:42 AM

EDITORIAL

Tyger Valley Shopping Centre to undergo major refurbishment Tyger Valley Shopping Centre, a major 82 844m² regional retail complex in Bellville, Cape Town, has commenced with a major renovation and refurbishment programme.

The Centre is located just off the N1 highway, in the heart of the booming Tyger Valley business district in Belville. The area lies within the city of Tygerberg, which is frequently referred to as the ‘Sandton of the Western Cape’. It is one of the youngest cities in the world, having been founded in 1996 following the amalgamation of the Bellville, Durbanville, Goodwood, Parow and Khayelitsha municipalities. The city has approximately 1-million residents and maintains the second-highest level of disposable income outside of Sandton, Johannesburg.

Bentel Associates International (BAI) is leading the overall refurbishment design, which involves a major contemporary revamp of the interiors including new ceilings, tiling, ceilings, shop fronts in certain areas and balustrades.

“Our overall design objective is to ensure that Tyger Valley once again takes its place as one of the Western Cape’s pre-eminent shopping centre destinations,” says Franc Brugman, BAI senior director. “The centre is due a major refurbishment and it’s time to bring the youth market back to the centre, which we plan on achieving with a major redesign of the Arena, Tyger Valley’s central entertainment node. We have designed

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EDITORIAL a larger restaurant deck to the top level, and a magnificent new skylight which will allow an abundance of natural light, thus ensuring a fresh and totally new contemporary aesthetic to the entertainment zone.”

The refurbishment will also extend to the rationalisation of shops currently trading, and planning to enter the centre whilst circulation routes in the malls have been realigned and opened up, to ensure better circulation and site lines. Two extensions to the current plan layout of the mall, include the extension of the upper Game layout enabling Game to operate over a single floor and the extension of the current Woolworths box.

Woolworths is planning an extensive renovation to their store which will ensure Tyger Valley is home to a Woolworths’ flagship store. The new interiors will include a more modern design approach that will deliver clean lines and a fresher outlay.

“A major component of the refurbishment is the upgrading, regeneration and replacement, as is necessary of the electrical, fire and mechanical infrastructure, some of which is some 30 years old,” adds Brugman. “An important addition to the buildings infrastructure will be the inclusion of a state of the art Building Management System, which will incorporate all electronic and mechanical systems, enabling centre management to be able to monitor and manage the building in the most efficient way possible. Wherever possible, green and sustainable initiatives to ensure a reduction in energy demand of the centre, will be included”.

The Centre is being refurbished by owners Pareto and Metropolitan Properties, both major players in the retail property industry. Pareto has been involved in the development of several significant shopping centres such as Cresta and Sandton City in Johannesburg and the Pavilion in KwaZulu Natal.

Works have already commenced on site, with the main contractor appointed to the site, WBHO taking occupation of the site on Tuesday, 15th February 2011. The Arena refurbishment is programmed for completion by the end of 2011, whilst all works envisaged for the refurbishment will be completed by November 2012.

For further information, interviews or visual reference, please contact: Charlotte Danby Corporate Communications Consultants 011 463 2198 • charlotte@corpcom.co.za www.mediaxpose.co.za

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3/28/11 5:46:23 AM

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STRAPHEAD

WALLS

www.tobuild.co.za

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EDITORIAL

Those vertical flat things ‌ de.academic.ru

Walls, walls, walls. Everywhere you go in the built environment you walk into them. Figuratively speaking that is. They define space in the vertical plane. With the inclusions of curtain walls, windows and doors, they enclose most rooms, offices and buildings. The creative use of walls, be it masonry, concrete, dry walling or timber, can enhance or detract from the spaces you find yourself in. Barcelona Pavilion, designed by Mies van der Rohe, is one such example.

Even though the finishes applied to walls, add a major portion of the character to the built environment.

The creative use of walls can have a great impact on the overall composition, as can be seen in the above mentioned pavilion. The requirements of the building regulations regarding walls, some of which are listed below, should not affect the use of walls as a design element by designers, to create an innovative and successful design. The only restriction is that of the designers own ability.

Part K of the National Building Regulations provides several functional regulations regarding walls. Part K of the SANS 10400 series of documents goes into great detail as to how these regulations can be complied with. A large portion of the document focuses on the use of masonry walls, both clay and concrete bricks and blocks, as well as the detailing of structural requirements, to ensure the structural integrity and safety of walls. Various tables and details are provided, which need to be interpreted for the various applications of walls in any building.

Timber-framed walls have been included in this edition of the deemed to satisfy rules. To comply with the building regulations, timber-framed walls must be designed and constructed in accordance with the requirements of SANS 10082.

The water penetration portion of the regulations, requires further compliance regarding condensation, rain penetration, and rising damp. It includes the special conditions required regarding condensation, applicable to an area deemed to be the SCCP – Southern Cape Condensation Problem area. Even though an extract of a map indicating the affected area is provided in the document, certain conditions are also provided, as well as a list of towns that fall within and on the boundary of the SCCP. Fire performance of walls needs to be in compliance with the requirements as detailed in Part T of the SANS 10400 series of documents. Specific references are made to the relevant clauses for ease of reference.

At the time of print, Part K of SANS 10400, edition 3, was still in draft stage, with publication imminent.

www.mediaxpose.co.za

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STRAPHEAD

WINDOWS DOORS

www.tobuild.co.za

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EDITORIAL

Glazing: Some did blow away

sxc.hu

N Mashego

It has been said that nature’s elements are unpredictable and unkind, but glazing and the elements of nature, when incorrectly combined, are unforgiving and brutal. This is why SANS 10400 Part N addresses the use of glazing in the construction industry.

The regulations also include polycarbonate sheeting in this edition.

Wind is a force to be reckoned with. All glazing must be designed and installed to withstand the wind loads it may have to contend with. This applies, primarily, to vertical glazing. The factors which need to be considered, with regard to wind load, are; the thickness of the glass, the framing, and the fixing of the glass and frame to the building. The National Building Standards detail that the glass being used, and the installation thereof, also needs to comply to the South African National Standards, SANS 1263-1: Safety and security glazing materials for buildings, part 1, and SANS 10137: The installation of glazing in buildings.

How many people do you know that have walked straight into a glass door? They should not have, even if the parties concerned were perhaps driven by carelessness or bad eyesight. The regulations state that any clear glazing or other material that is used should be marked and made visible to all.

Safety glazing must be permanently marked by the manufacturer on every pane, over and above any marking to make it apparent as mentioned above. The regulations specify all the locations where it is compulsory to use safety glazing. These include, amongst others, doors, low windows, sliding doors, side lights, shopfronts, balustrades, curtain walls, baths and showers. Safety glazing is not confined to glass only, there are other materials which can also be used in the place of glazing, such as polycarbonate sheeting, as long as it is deemed safe and complies to the relevant standards.

There have been several cases where glazing has failed tragically due to structural faults, human impact and, in some cases, even by being blown away. The regulations make provision for the design and installation of structurally sound and safe glazing in South Africa.

www.mediaxpose.co.za

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BRICKS & PAVING

www.tobuild.co.za

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3/28/11 5:48:39 AM

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STRAPHEAD

BLINDS AWNINGS SCREENS & SHUTTERS

www.tobuild.co.za

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STRAPHEAD

CEILINGS PARTITIONING

www.tobuild.co.za

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Ceilings & Drywall Supplies We stock all leading brands ceiling and partitioning systems for your H-strip, plastered and suspended ceilings as well as the complete range of drywall requirements such as gypsum boards, galvanised studs and tracks, all aluminium accessories and DAS cornices.

CONTACT Email: sales@cdsupplies.co.za Marketing: marketing@cdsupplies.co.za Postal Address: P.O. Box 1909 Garsfontein East, Pretoria 0060

Centurion Branch: Tel: 012 653 8710 Address: 141 Edison Crescent Hennopspark Centurion

Pretoria Branch: Tel: 012 333 8070 / 5954 Address: 14 Eland Street Koedoespoort Pretoria

Bloemfontein Branch: Dave Hedenskog: Cell: 087 809 3626 Fax: 086 694 1812 Email: bloemfontein@cdsupplies.co.za Address: Unit 3, 228 Church street Hamilton Bloemfontein

Looking forward to supply you with great products at low prices and even better service.

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STRAPHEAD

AUTOMATION ELECTRICAL LIGHTING

www.tobuild.co.za

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EDITORIAL

Lighting in the 21st Century‌ 22 October 1879... A date that changed the future. The first successful test of the incandescent light was performed by Thomas Edison. Just over a hundred and thirty years later, his invention has become all but obsolete. His work has been the inspiration for the development of various alternative electronic light sources. Light Emitting Diodes (LED), Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL), Fluorescent Tubes, Tungsten Halogen Lamps, Metal Halide Lamps, to name but a few.

sxu.hu

There is currently a huge focus on reducing energy consumption through lighting. Eskom has been exchanging incandescent lights for CFLs countrywide. They also launched the 49M initiative on 18 March 2011, to increase awareness and reduce South Africa’s energy consumption. The M49 campaign focuses on several areas of energy consumption, lighting remains one of the main areas.

Using the correct lights effectively and creatively, may be more costly during construction, but can save money in the long run.

Lighting fulfils several roles in the built environment. Originally developed to enhance the working and living environment, lights have become an integral part of everyday life. Advertising, multi-media, special effects, and security are all areas that lighting has become a major part of. The main purpose remains to provide sufficient illumination for living and working. The most energy efficient way of lighting a home or office, is through the effective use of natural light. Part O of the National Building Regulations deals with the requirements of lighting and ventilation in the built environment. The deemed to satisfy rules, (SANS 10400 - Part O), still states that natural lighting must be provided through windows and openings of a size equal to or more than 10% of the floor area of all habitable rooms, with the exception of Category 1 Buildings, where a minimum of 5% is required.

Where natural lighting does not provide sufficient light, lighting will be provided artificially.

Artificial lighting, according to SANS 10400 Part O, must be as per SANS 10114 - Part 1: Artificial lighting of interiors, which lists, in table form, several occupancies, rooms within these occupancies, and the required illumination level for the performance of the duties required. As an example, in an office where computers are used, an illumination level of 500 LUX is required, while in a small retail area, an illumination level of 200 LUX is required. It does not currently indicate a maximum illumination level, but certain restrictions are provided on energy consumption in SANS10400 Part XA, currently out for public comment.

To effectively comply with the above requirements, the type of light, the position of the light and the function performed under said light must be considered. Where perceived colours are of extreme importance, it is important not to use light fittings that affect the appearance of colour. Using the correct lights effectively and creatively, may be more costly during construction, but can save money in the long run.

Lighting further plays an important part in setting the mood of an area. Lighting can create a romantic atmosphere in a restaurant, as well as highlighting certain features or details. Lighting has the ability to transform space as it alters the way the observer perceives the area, if and when applied creatively and effectively. No longer is lighting purely practical, but by the visionary use of the various types and colour of lighting, it can turn buildings into art works.

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STRAPHEAD

AIR CONDITIONING

www.tobuild.co.za

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EDITORIAL

Fresh air is not a luxury!

With the advent of the industrial age, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems made their appearance. A new approach to design was born. No longer were location, climate and orientation a concern. Designers could manipulate the interior artificially for occupant comfort. Large glass facades became a feature. Glass boxes sprung up worldwide like mushrooms, almost overnight. Designers were given a new freedom.

The previous edition of the National Building Regulations made allowance for artificial ventilation, but took note of the inherent health risks this could pose to occupants. This was addressed by ensuring that fresh air be introduced into buildings. One of the shortcomings of the regulations, was that it allowed developers to incorporate HVAC, while introducing fresh air only through opening sections in windows. Providing fresh air through the HVAC system increases capital costs during the development stage. Utility bills are also higher for this installation. The regulations were complied with, by allowing for the minimum opening sections in facades.

The dichotomy in this scenario, is that to effectively manipulate the interior and keep operational costs to a minimum, all the opening windows are kept closed. The old, stale air in the building, is filtered and conditioned, before it is re-circulated. This, in turn, leads to increased levels of carbon dioxide, contaminants (such as VOC and formaldehyde), allergens (such as mould spores), bacteria and viruses. Even though HVAC systems makes provision for the filtering of the air, to reduce these levels, proper and regular maintenance is of the utmost importance. It also requires that the filters be replaced regularly. This reduces the effects mentioned above, but it does not alleviate the problem.

The reduced levels of oxygen and increased levels of carbon dioxide created by these systems, leads to increased tiredness and loss of productivity. Increased bacterial and viral levels, further, leads to loss of productivity and absence from work – both attributed to Sick Building Syndrome. Further effects on occupants include, sensory irritation of the eyes, nose, throat; neurotoxic or general health problems; and skin irritation, amongst others.

Edition three of the new building regulations addresses this problem, but it must still be tested in the market place to ensure the application resolves this health issue. Where developers require HVAC systems, they must be designed by a competent person as defined by SANS 10400 Part O. Only time will tell if the new buildings will be healthier than their predecessors.

Sufficient fresh air in the built environment, is a necessity and not a luxury. A well designed development, would ensure reduced financial losses to companies due to loss of productivity and absence from work, as well as reduced medical bills for individuals.

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STRAPHEAD

SECURITY FENCING

www.tobuild.co.za

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EDITORIAL

Creating a Safe Built Environment The main purpose of the building regulations is to provide a safe built environment. The Constitution of South Africa states the following under section 24 & 26: 24. E nvironment: Everyone has the right: (a) to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being; and 26. Housing: (1) Everyone has the right to adequate housing.

The National Building Regulations deal with various safety issues, such as structural (Part B), stairs (Part M), Fire (Part T) and so on. There are three areas not dealt with in dedicated sections, and these are covered by Part D. They are: Change in level, Ramps and Driveways, and Swimming Pools and Swimming Baths.

Change in Level: Any change of level of more than one metre , needs to be protected to prevent any person with access to it from falling from it. The Deemed to Satisfy rules state that, providing a balustrade or wall with a minimum height of 1000mm will be sufficient protection to comply with the regulation. Further provision is made for the protection of a level change by an 800mm balustrade where the level change is internal and is used for public seating, such as in a theatre. It also states that, for certain occupancies, the balustrade must be designed such that a ball, with a diameter of 100mm, cannot pass through it. For the remainder, the balustrade must have a handrail and at least one other rail midway between the handrail and floor.

Ramps and Driveways: The regulation states that a ramp or driveway must be designed to be safe when used, and fit for the purpose it was designed for. This is further expounded in SANS 10400, making separate provisions for vehicular and pedestrian ramps. The maximum allowable slope for both vehicles and pedestrians is 1:8, while Part S further restricts the maximum slope of a ramp to 1:12 for the occupancies not specifically excluded by the National Building Regulations.

Ramps used by both Pedestrians and Vehicles will comply with the slope requirements as given above, and will have a sidewalk of at least 1.2m wide with a minimum kerb of 150mm.

Swimming Pools and Swimming Baths: Swimming pools and baths must be protected by a wall or a fence that would prevent any person from accessing it from a public area or street. Access may only be obtained through a self closing, self latching gate, with provision for locking. The fence must be 1.2m high and, similar to the balustrade for a change in level, a ball with a diameter of 100mm should not be able to pass through it.

A further area that is not currently covered by the National Building Regulations, but will be included in Part S as a general note, is a maximum allowable temperature to a hot water outlet. Although 60 degrees celsius is the temperature generally required to prevent micro organisms and bacterial growth, this temperature can cause severe scalding to humans, and it is recommended that hot water temperature be reduced to 45 degrees celsius at each outlet. The biggest danger of water that is too hot, is to children, the elderly and people who have impaired judgement for any reason.

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STRAPHEAD

TIMBER DECKING

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Master Decks Built on Reliability

Hardwood Decks Composite Decks Pool Decks Boardwalks Jetties Pergolas Balustrades Screens

Tel: 021 762 9390 • Fax 086 587 2063 www.decks.co.za • info@masterdecks.co.za 99_MasterDecks.indd 1

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STRAPHEAD

FIREPLACES & BRAAIS

www.tobuild.co.za

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HYPERLIGHTING FIRES

&

Hyper Lighting & Fires has 12 years in fireplaces & braai industry. We stock all the top brands available in the marketplace, from the inexpensive product line to the very top end products. All ranges are SABS approved.

Contact us for expert advice on Gas & Fireplace related questions.

SHOWROOM: 32 Jeanette Str • Brackenfell (opp. Hypermarket on Frans Conradie Drive)

Phone: 021 981 4401 | Fax: 086 274 6831 • www.hyperlightingandfires.com Contact Person: Pieter Mongie • 083 448 1119

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EDITORIAL

Keeping warm, without starting a fire

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N Mashego

When the winter chills sweep in, and we all reach for more layers of clothing and blankets, space heating becomes an essential part of achieving human comfort in any building. Whether trying to keep warm at home, or creating a comfortable environment at the office, using today’s technology, there are various systems that can help to keep the cold at bay. Certain rules apply for safety purposes; the main focus is placed on the correct installation, manufacturing and usage of such systems.

Part V, of the National Building Standards (SANS 10400) documents, details the Deemed to Satisfy rules that govern the construction of fireplaces, chimneys and flues. One of the major concerns highlighted in this document is materiality. When dealing with heating systems; heat and the prevention of harm to buildings, its components and its occupants is an important consideration. It is thus very important to know and understand that, in these systems, only non-combustible materials may be used. According to Part V, the selection and installation of these materials is to be such that they are not hazardous, either to other components of the system, or to the rest of the building.

Smoke is another important issue addressed in Part V. Chimneys and flues must be designed to safely remove any smoke and noxious gasses produced by a space heating system. They must be installed clear of both ventilation ducts and also of any other service ducts that may be adversely affected by heat. Certain dimensional requirements are also placed on flues and chimneys.

The risks involved in space heating are enormous. Fire hazard, smoke and noxious fume inhalation can have serious consequences. Complying with the regulations would minimise these risks, and ensure a safe built environment.

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STRAPHEAD

PAINT & DECORATIVE COATINGS

www.tobuild.co.za

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EDITORIAL

Light reflectance and NCS lightness

The difference in lightness between two colours is probably the most important factor contributing to the visual experience of a pattern or a form. If the lightness difference is very small, you tend to read a form as a whole. While with a large lightness contrast between two colours, you tend to read a form as two separate entities. Additionally, from a distance, the contrast of lightness between colours on buildings is almost the only perceived contrast. The difference in hue barely stands out. At close range, the contrast of lightness is a very important element when, for example, reading or distinguishing parts of a façade.

Lightness is not a quality of a unique colour but can be determined by comparing it to a grey scale or through instrumental measurement – it’s also important to remember that lightness is not the same as whiteness.

Luminous reflectance factor Yl, by some called LRV, is a physical measure of how much of the incident light is reflected from a colour material. It is given as a percentage of how much a perfectly reflecting diffusor (white) would reflect under similar conditions. White has the value Yl = 100 and black the value Yl = 0. If the scale between white and black is divided into equal luminous reflectance steps, this scale does not represent equally large visual lightness differences, as does however the NCS Grey Scale. (A grey colour which is visually perceived to lie midway between white and black has a value of Yl = 26%.)

NCS Lightness, on the other hand, is indicated with the visual lightness value v on a scale between 0-1. Black has v = 0.0 and white has v = 1.0 on a scale with uniform visual steps. (A grey colour visually in the middle has v = 0.5.)

Around the world we are seeing increasing regulations governing the use of colour externally. These regulations tend to focus on the light reflection for reasons of heat absorption of surfaces and the effects this has on construction and bonding materials. In most cases the luminous reflectance factor (Yl), must not fall below 20 or 25, v = 0,4 or 0,5. In many countries there are also institutions that determine how public places should be planned in order to obtain a good environment for partially sighted people. In conclusion, it is lightness and the difference in lightness between two colours that plays a primary role in how we consider our surrounding environment.

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EDITORIAL Lightness and reflectance information are given for the colours in NCS Exterior and can be found in the Exterior Block. In addition, values for all 1950 NCS Original colours are also offered.

Editor’s Note: Part S and Part T of SANS 10400 makes several references to contrast of colours especially regarding stair nosing and emergency routes. Generally accepted as a 30 point difference in LRV contrast for building elements and a 70 point difference in LRV contrast for signage.

About NCS

NCS is the understandable international colour order system for colour selection, specification, communication and control of colour in design, architecture, research, marketing and manufacturing and is entirely based on how the human being sees colour.

This logical colour notation system builds on how the human being sees colour; a notation represents a specific colour precept and describes the colour visually. It is not dependant on the limitations caused by pigments, light rays or nerve signals.

The Swedish Government took the initiative in the matter of colour determination and classification in the 1950’s and what has evolved over time is what is now know as the Natural Colour System® and has become the international standard for colour classification. South Africa is fully compliant as the South African Standard (SANS 1091) was enabled in 2004 and adopts NCS. For additional information about NCS or training courses in the use of the colour order system visit www.ncscolour.co.za

Lisa Taylor, NCS South Africa T 011 486 3190 • lisa@ncscolour.co.za

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STRAPHEAD

KITCHENS

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EDITORIAL

Alternative Kitchen Plumbing Several new innovations regarding kitchen plumbing have been introduced into the built environment. Two specific developments have a direct impact on the provision of plumbing for kitchens. These are Enzyme treatment and Food waste disposal units.

The building regulations specify the requirement and conditions of grease interceptors. Two types are described, an internal installed unit and an external unit. The internal units are usually installed as part of restaurants, which is where Enzyme treatment is most effective.

Enzyme dosing works by adding safe bacteria cultures to the kitchen drainage system. This bacteria digest and liquefy organic waste, mostly found in drains and grease traps. The organic waste is converted to harmless water and carbon dioxide, reducing the problems usually connected with restaurant effluent. An important part is that the dosing should be regular, and continuous to ensure maximum affect. This is achieved by utilizing a timer pump and through regular maintenance of the system. There are several local suppliers of the system, which could advise and assist with the application of Enzyme dosing.

Food waste disposal units, have been used in other countries for several years. In the United States and New Zealand, it is compulsory and the use locally has increased in recent years. The main purpose of food disposal units, is to reduce the wet waste that ends up in the refuse bin. The units grinds all wet waste from kitchens, and washes it down the drainage systems. No provision is currently made in the building regulations regarding the installation of these units. These units remove wet waste from refuse, which decreases the potential of unwanted rotting, associated smells and bacterial growth. This reduces the inherent health risks caused by standing wet waste. Several local councils have allowed the installation of these units in some residential units, restaurants, hotels and retail outlets.

With the publication of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, Act No. 59 of 2008, separation of waste became legislated. The application still need to be incorporated effectively. Food waste disposal units, remove the wet waste from refuse, which allows for a more effective separation of dry waste for recycling purposes. This reduces the amount of waste ending up as land fill. Local suppliers of these systems will advise on which system would be best suited for specific applications and assist with the application process with the local authority. Some suppliers already have permission from various councils to proceed with the installation of their units due to the benefits it provides.

Part P deals with the sizing of drainage systems, and if either of the above systems are incorporated, specific allowance should be made for them in the design, due to increased or altered drainage effluent from kitchens. In residential developments, it should not affect the existing drainage installation but might require some changes to the sink and internal pipework.

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STRAPHEAD

BATHROOMS

www.tobuild.co.za

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EDITORIAL

Part S: Changes and Progress In October 2008, the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, Act 103 of 1977, was amended again, including some changes to Part S which relates to environmental access for people with disabilities. The Deemed to Satisfy Rules (or Standards), which are laid out in SANS10400:1990 are subject to the scrutiny of a sub-committee with in the South African Bureau of Standards. A revision is due to be published within the next few months.

At the same time the South African Bureau of Standards has gone through an organisational change. It has effectively split and became the South African National Standards (SANS), which produces Standards, and the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS); whose job it is to enforce them, by applying the Regulations.

The motivation for amending the Regulations, the Deemed to Satisfy Rules and the other parts of the Building Regulations was not to update them, unfortunately; but for historic reasons. When SABS:0400 was first published in 1990, the different Parts of the Regulations were bound together. Over the past twenty years it has been impossible to update any single part because to do this the whole document would have to be updated. It has also been impossible to include new Parts (such as energy efficiency).

‌universal access improves the built environment for all users‌ Guage

A step that could have been avoided, making the building easily accessible.

This is sadly why Part S has become so chronically out of touch with other standards on environmental access in the international arena, and of little or no use to the construction or disability sector alike. Out of desperation, the disability sector worked with the South African Bureau of Standards to publish another document, SABS 0246.

This came out in 1993 and improved on the Deemed to Satisfy Rules in the SABS 0400. It is the most recent SABS document on environmental access and is also over ten years old. Its validity was always questionable legally due to a legal clarification from SABS itself that said that any other standard (even if it was more recent), could not take precedent over the original Deemed to Satisfy Rules that were published with the Regulations.

There was an opportunity created by this situation to address the Part S of the Building Regulations and the Deemed to Satisfy rules in three ways:

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EDITORIAL 1. T he relationship with other Parts of the Building Regulation could be refined.

2. The Regulations could be ‘tweaked’. They could not be rewritten, as this required a lengthy legal process, including an impact assessment to gauge the effect on the construction industry. However, the opportunity could be used to see how, within the current language of the document, the Regulation could be aligned to South African Human Rights legislation. Certain changes have been possible, although further changes are required.

3. The Deemed to Satisfy Rules have been changed. These are now in the final stages of approval.

Relationship to other Parts of the Regulation Part S still has the same relationship with other Parts of the Building Regulations. However, in Part T, which covers fire, Part T specifically states that it covers ‘the protection of occupants or users, including persons with disabilities, therein is ensured and that provision is made for the safe evacuation of such occupants or users.’

(T1(a)). This means that all buildings to which Part T applies, have to allow for the safe evacuation of people with disabilities.

Changes to the Regulation The Regulation is published alongside the Deemed to Satisfy Rules. The Regulation covers which building types Part S applies to and how it should apply to these buildings. It stipulates who Part S applies to. The changes that have been made are: Building types: The application of the Regulation was extended to cover low risk storage and to motivate the hotel industry include more rooms for people in wheelchairs in small hotels, not just the large ones. However, there are larger buildings that are still not covered and should be.

To whom Part S applies: Part S used to just apply to people in wheelchairs, people who can walk but are unable to use the stairs and people with impaired vision. Now it uses the definition provided in the UN Convention; that it applies to people who have a physical, sensory, mental or intellectual impairment, and experience barriers that affect their ability to participate in society.

How Part S applies: • Part S has benefited from a closer link to Part T. Effectively, if you have to be able to get out of a building you can get into it. Any egress route has to be accessible. Any entrance route that is used as an egress route (and all main entrance routes), has to be accessible. So rather than one route being accessible into the building, all main entrance routes have to be.

• People with disabilities must now be able to escape to a place of safety from anywhere in the building.

• All routes used in the building to any facility must be free of any obstacle, whatever it is, whether it ‘limits, restricts, endangers or prevents’ a person with a disability from accessing the facility.

• Car parking and lift access remain the same and desperately need to be addressed; the situation still means that provision of car parking spaces for people with disabilities only needs to be made in car parks that have more than 50 cars parking spaces. Also that a building with more than a single storey does not have to provide lift access.

• Toilet provision is defined as ‘adequate’ and the rationalization of ‘adequate’ is provided in the Deemed to Satisfy Rules.

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www.mediaxpose.co.za Guage

Sufficient space to provide an accessible lift, making the entire building accessible.

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EDITORIAL • S eating in Auditoria now has to provide for people with mobility impairments other than people in wheelchairs, and people who use guide dogs.

Changes to the Deemed to Satisfy Rules During the process of changing the Deemed to Satisfy Rules, SABS 0246:1993 has been incorporated into a baseline document and will be withdrawn. The baseline document has undergone a series of comments and discussions within the subcommittee. The resulting document is a balance between trying to bring South Africa up to date and recognising that this is not necessarily possible in one stoke, given the delay of 21 years.

Thus whilst the standards are still far behind international equivalents, the sub-committee on Part S has done as much as possible to bring in positive changes that will work for South Africa. It would be extremely helpful if members of the design, construction and disability sectors can engage with the sub-committee to ensure that any further changes represent the views of all affected parties.

This leaves us with two important questions: Why not universal access?

Universal access is required under the UN Convention, to which South Africa is a signatory. Building Regulations, unlike universal access, work with minimum standards. Universal access works with optimum standards. However, we should be asking ourselves what the difference really is.

For example, a corridor requires a width dimension of 1800mm minimum to allow two wheelchair users to pass in opposite directions. People in wheelchairs have the largest space requirement for this example. Two people with another form of disability, such as people on crutches, or two people using guide dogs can also utilise this dimension; as can two people with prams or moving suitcases. The current deemed to satisfy rules stipulate 1100mm. Why is 1100mm considered a minimum standard; not just discriminatory and too small?

Why have a Part S? Secondly, one of the discussions on the sub-committee for Part S was, could Part S be removed, and its contents included in the other Parts? This would enable the Standards to deal with universal access for the South African public as a whole, not just people with disabilities. Again, this discussion came too late for it to be included in the current changes. One element that needs further thought is that the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, Act 4 of 2000, specifically refers to the SABS Regulations and Standards that govern environmental access (Chapter 9), and this clear link provides immense legal weight for people who are disabled regarding the built environment.

Given that universal access improves the built environment for all users, we can all work together, from the design and construction industry, developers, the disability movement, government and suppliers of products to push for universal access as a minimum standard. Since one of the benefits of the changes are that a new Regulation and Standard can be published independently of the other Parts, we can work together to galvanise support for this as soon as humanly possible.

Amanda Gibbert GAUGE • Tel: 012 343 1941 • www.gauge.co.za www.mediaxpose.co.za

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STRAPHEAD

FURNITURE

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EDITORIAL

Furniture, the unregulated built environment

Photos – The Design Crew

No building is complete without furniture, decoration and, often, clutter. Houses are mostly furnished and decorated for comfort and aesthetic purposes. On the other hand, offices, shops and public building furniture layouts are planned to provide the most effective and efficient space usage for operational purposes.

Two different problems are usually found in residential projects. Residential developments for the property market are often designed for specific, minimalist furniture layouts. The tenants that move into these spaces seldom own the furniture as designed for. This leads to the over furnishing of the available space. Secondly, people are collectors, we do not get rid of possessions we do not need. This often leads to cluttered living spaces as we require more and more space to horde the “things” we own.

These two problems leads to a high concentration of furniture and clutter. Usually, much of it is flammable due to the materials used for the manufacture of these items. It can also become obstacles in routes that we need to use in case of emergency, either to escape or reach important items, like medicine.

During the project design and development process of corporate buildings, the area of the building is reduced to the bare minimum in an attempt to meet or reduce the project budget. In these buildings, space planners try to fit as many employees and equipment into the minimum space, leading to furniture layouts that are cramped. Escape routes are usually respected in the space planning process. The company that occupies the space, however, seldom has the knowledge or experience to keep this in mind. Filing cabinets, additional equipment or furniture are placed randomly to accommodate further operational requirements.

This restricts access to escape routes, or ease of movement throughout the building.

This is one area that forms an integral part of the built environment, but is not included in the building regulations. Material usage and the design of furniture is guided by various SANS standards, but not the specific usage and layouts of the furniture. Designers, developers and tenants need to keep furniture layouts and building usage in mind when designing and developing new buildings to avoid these issues.

Safety and ‘ease of use’ of the built environment should be foremost in the design process.

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STRAPHEAD

CEMENT & CONCRETE

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EDITORIAL

Up and up we go

sxu.hu

Vertical circulation, especially stairs, remains one of the main areas of concern in buildings. After the tragedy of 9/11, this area has come under close scrutiny, especially with regards to safety of users.

Stairs are addressed by three different parts in the National Building Regulations. Part M addresses stairs generally, Part T addresses stairs forming part of escape routes and Part S addresses stairs in accessible buildings.

Stairs form part of the everyday use of most buildings.

Stairs form part of the everyday use of most buildings. Whether to access a building, or move around between different floors, they get climbed daily. Part M specifies the general requirements for all stairs. Part S, on the other hand, specifies the requirements for stairs in buildings that must be designed for access by people with a disability.

For the purpose of the building regulations, Part S excludes only the following occupancies: B1, B2, D4, H4, J1, J2, H1 (if it has less than 25 rooms) and H3 (floors above ground level if no lift is installed). Occupancies can be found in Clause 21 of Part A of the National Building Regulations. All other buildings must be designed to allow for disabled users. Thus the Part S stair regulations overrides the requirements of Part M in most buildings.

The table below lists the requirements of the various parts for comparison and guidance purposes.

Requirement

Part M

Part S

Part T

Riser height

Max. 200mm

Max. 170mm

Comply with Part M

Clear width

Min. 750mm

Min. 900mm

Min. 1500mm for buildings complying with Part S Min. 1100mm for buildings complying to Part M

Flight rise

Max. 3000mm

Comply with Part M

Comply with Part M

Landing length

Min. 900mm

Min. 1100mm

Not specified

Going depth

Min. 250mm Max. as per formula

Comply with Part M

Comply with Part M

Nosing overlap

Min 25mm in open riser

Comply with Part M

Comply with Part M

Open risers

Yes,

Not allowed

Not allowed, except occupancy D4

Balustrades

Min. one side

Both sides required

Comply with Part S

Winders

Allowed up to 90 degrees

Comply with Part M

Comply with Part M

Min. number of stairs

No requirements

No requirement

Min. 3 steps

Spiral allowed

Yes, in certain occupancies

Comply with part M

Yes, with a min. going of 250mm, and in occupancies not listed in Part S

The above table lists the most general requirements for information purposes. Part T has been published and needs to be complied with. Part M and Part S are in the final draft stages and the final published document might differ from the information provided above.

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ADVERTORIAL

ASPASA Benefits of membership

sxc.hu

Whether as a producer or as an associate, membership of ASPASA gives you a finger on the pulse of this great industry and an opportunity to influence its direction.

In an age when legislation is constantly changing, it is increasingly difficult for operators to stay in touch with what is often essential information. The opportunity to influence outcomes is equally precious and is not usually available if you do not have the combined strength of a good trade association and its lobbying capacity. Given the sheer breadth of its membership, ASPASA is an influential voice for its members and is respected by government at all levels.

ASPASA is also about expertise, with a team of experienced professionals, constantly on call to our members. Many of our members regard the association as a cost-effective extension to their own team-specialists who enable them to stay ahead of the game on important policy and legislative issues and represent them in dealing with government at all levels.

Membership also provides a host of valuable networking opportunities at both national and regional levels, not least, opportunities to compare notes with people and businesses who face similar challenges. Together, you are a much stronger force than individually.

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ADVERTORIAL Our Services Influence and participation • Influence ASPASA policy at the highest regional structure in SA. Tackle the challenges to your business at a local level with the strength of the association behind you.

• Benefit from ASPASA’s participation in key industry bodies.

• Feed data into the association’s ground-breaking sustainable development strategy, so ensuring you are represented within the industry’s most vital communication tool with our regulators.

Professional support, advice and services • Access to expert advice, guidance and support from ASPASA office. Members have immediate access to the support of ASPASA staff working on their behalf to protect their business interests.

• Draw upon the wide-ranging expertise on diverse issues, including environmental, waste, water, mineral planning, health, safety, corporate social responsibility, transport, HR & training.

• Receive regular briefing notes to explain the impact of any new Government policy decisions or other regulatory issues.

• Ensure your views are fed into the heart of the Government’s regulatory process through ASPASA’s dialogue with senior public sector decision-makers and attendance at key stakeholder committees.

Information and statistics • Have latest news delivered straight to your inbox with our regular newsletter and industry magazines, advice and views on issues that affect your business.

• Access the ASPASA website featuring the latest technical advice, downloadable resources, searchable industry site database, policy guidance and news.

Events and networking • Participate in our prestigious ASPASA/IOQ Conference.

• Raise your company’s profile through participation in the ASPASA health and safety and environmental schemes.

• Attend seminars offering the latest advice on technical issues.

• Find out first about ASPASA’s events and seminar, all offering networking opportunities that bring suppliers and buyers together.

Standards and best practice • Draw upon our centralised range of best practice advice that ASPASA collects from across its membership.

• Take part in specialist briefings, offering advice and guidance on new regulations.

• Sharing best practice is an important means of improving safety performance and reducing workplace accidents.

Regional strength One of ASPASA’s greatest strengths lies in our regional structure, so ensuring close alignment of members’ interest. Regional Chairman feed local views and recommendations to ASPASA AGM. The regions also provide many opportunities for members of all sizes to network with their peers.

CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 011 791 3327 Email: office@aspasa.co.za www.aspasa.co.za www.mediaxpose.co.za

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STRAPHEAD

CONSTRUCTION STEEL

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EDITORIAL

A new slant on roofs When the draft of SANS 10400 Part L – Roofs was published for public comment, several new Deemed to Satisfy rules and amendments were introduced to meet the functional requirements of the National Building Regulations. We highlight a few of these changes and additions for information. The final published document may vary from these, based on public comments received.

Life Expectancy: One of the most noticeable changes, is the inclusion of life span requirements of roofing systems and products. Four specific conditions are covered currently. Roof systems which can be readily repaired and replaced must preserve their properties specified by the manufacturer for at least 10 years.

Roof systems which are difficult to replace, must maintain their properties for at least 20 years. The third condition is that of roof lights, which specifies that roof lights must resist ultraviolet radiation degradation for a period of at least 15 years. The last condition states that a flat roof must be waterproofed and must remain waterproof for at least 5 years without any maintenance.

It remains to be seen, how roof systems will be classified, as no specific definitions or conditions are currently included to define the difference between a roof that can readily be repaired and replaced, and a roof that is difficult to replace.

Minimum Slopes: A further change is the minimum slope of a corrugated (including box rib) profiled roof.

The current draft increased the allowable roof slope to 11 degrees, where previously it was 5 degrees.

However, 5 degrees is still acceptable, but only on a category 1 type buildings, see page 42.

The minimum slope of specialised long span sheets remained at 3 – 5 degrees with specific reference to the manufacturer’s design and specification.

In the case of fibre-cement and metal roof tiles, the minimum slope has been increased by 1 degree to 11 degrees where an approved underlay is provided.

Roof Lights: A new addition to SANS 10400 – Part L is the requirements for roof lights. We already looked at the life expectancy earlier. Further conditions deals with hail resistance, waterproofing, and the maximum size of roof lights.

Flat Roofs: The rules dealing with flat roofs have expanded significantly from the previous edition of the regulations. This includes a general section where a minimum slope of 1:80 is specified. If two directional falls intersect, a 1:80 slope must be maintained along the mitre, which means that the slope of the two directional falls have to increase. It further states that penetrations must be at least 200mm from any vertical surface and other penetrations like plumbing pipes, conduits, etc., may not be clustered.

Further areas covered under flat roofs include rules relating to gutters and downpipes, flat concrete roofs and the waterproofing system.

An interesting Annexure is added dealing with waterproofing of thresholds, tanking for stairs at cavity walls and waterproofing of showers. This is in the roof section of the SANS 10400 document.

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STRAPHEAD

GREEN BUILDING

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EDITORIAL

Energy Efficiency in Buildings: In 1998, the Department of Energy warned that electrical demand would exceed supply in 2007, and, in October of that year, it happened. A concerted effort was made by local government to promote energy efficiency during this period.

The energy crisis stretches much wider than just South Africa’s demand and supply problems. With sustainability coming to the fore worldwide, it became clear that the efficient use and development of energy would be one of the major issues faced in the future. Non-renewable resources, including oil, gas and coal, are being depleted at a fast rate and will not sustain us forever.

The above lead to the development of the National Energy Act, Act 34 of 2008, SANS 204: Energy Efficiency in Buildings, Part XA, being added to the National Building Regulations Act in 2010 and the subsequent Deemed to Satisfy Rules published as part of the SANS 10400 series. The SANS 10400: Part XA document, was first published for public comments on 15 June 2010, and again at the beginning of March 2011. When accepted and published by the SABS, it will make energy efficiency in the built environment compulsory. To satisfy the regulations there are 2 requirements that must be complied with, namely, hot water supply and energy usage. It further creates future opportunities to raise the regulatory requirements, as evident in SANS 204.

Hot Water Supply: It is a well known fact that the production of hot water consumes a large amount of energy. The Regulation and Deemed to Satisfy rules require that, in all occupancies, a minimum of 50% of all hot water generation (by volume) should be from a source other than electrical resistance heating (electrical geyser). Further, all hot water service pipes should be insulated, dependant on the internal pipe diameter, to minimise heat loss.

Energy Usage: The Regulations and Deemed to Satisfy Rules specify 3 methods to comply with the energy usage requirements.

For this purpose, South Africa has been divided into 6 different climatic zones, each with its own specific requirements. The first method of compliance is to prove theoretically that the building’s maximum energy demand and maximum annual consumption for the relevant occupancy is less than that specified in SANS 10400: Part XA. Secondly, and applicable to most occupancies, is to design the building envelope to meet specific design criteria as listed below. Lastly, by proving that the building has a theoretical annual energy consumption and demand less than, or equal to, a reference building that complies with the requirements. All the above must be certified by a competent person, as defined in SANS 10400: Part XA. To comply with the second option mentioned above, a building should be designed to meet the following criteria: • The most used rooms shall be orientated in a northerly direction; • Heated floors shall be insulated under the surface bed; • External walls shall meet relevant insulation value; • Fenestrations shall be less than 15% of the nett floor area per storey, alternatively shall comply with calculations as per SANS 204; and • Roof assembly shall meet the minimum R value as specified.

These regulations should lead to innovative designs, especially as far as orientation and fenestration are concerned.

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AVERTORIAL

Interbuild delivers a strong message for the future of timber construction

The recent Interbuild show in Johannesburg provided an innovative platform to showcase the many and varied attributes of timber in construction, with the erection, within one of the Exhibition halls, of an actual, full-scale, timber frame home. The project arose from an approach by the Institute of Timber Frame Builders (ITFB) to the exhibition organisers. They proposed that a timber framed home component would bring a fresh dimension to this popular, long standing, annual event.

The proposal included a joint venture with the Wood Foundation and the Institute of Timber Construction (ITC) so that all aspects of timber could be exhibited, in keeping with the objectives of these organisations.

A working group was formed to put the project into motion. Werner Slabbert, of Eco Log Homes, Gerard Busse, of Arch Wood Protection, Jenny de Waal, of the ITFB, Samantha Beresford, of York Timbers, and Alan MacGregor, of Flagship Communications, made up the group.

The fundamental intent of the project was to incorporate a variety of timber finishes and other non timber products to underline the versatility of timber in construction. It further aimed to generate awareness, across a wide spectrum of potential markets and stakeholders, of what this tried a tested natural material continues to offer in today’s competitive construction environment. Indeed, the Wood Foundation House, as it fondly became known, demonstrated, in a very tangible way, timber’s unbeatably low carbon ‘footprint’ in production. The fact that it’s derived from renewable resources, it has durability, strength, flexibility, and excellent thermal and acoustic qualities. It also lends itself to speedy construction at competitive prices and it is unmatched in beauty.

Numerous stakeholders, in the timber sector at large, stepped up to the plate, as it were, as sponsors of the house. This included materials, expertise and time, underlining the fresh spirit of commitment that is sweeping this time honoured industry. Notable among these individuals and companies was architect, Jacques Cronje, who provided his services for the design of the home, and Werner Slabbert, owner of Eco Log Homes, who undertook the heavy responsibility of the construction work.

The fully functional house that emerged virtually overnight included a kitchen, lounge, bedroom, en-suite bathroom and decking. The result drew a great deal of favourable comments and interest from visitors from many quarters, suggesting that the exhibit’s objectives have indeed been met and that the foundations have been laid for the way forward.

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ADVERTORIAL

Eco Log Homes Building a Greener Future Twenty-first Century home-builders are confronted with new challenges as we face the impact that our homes have on our environment.

Today we have to ask ourselves; how good for my health and well-being are the building materials of my new home? How big is the carbon footprint of my new home? Instead of building in opposition to nature, isn’t there a way to build with nature? To tackle these questions, consider the fact that better home-building is about each and every one of us, and how we relate to the other life-forms that share our planet.

Eco Log Homes provides the answer by helping you build a timber home that will have the least impact on our already threatened eco system.

Unlike buildings of brick, concrete and other synthetics, every Eco Log home sustains life. Timber is a constantly renewed resource. For every tree that an Eco Log home uses, approximately three trees are planted by the companies suppliers in sustainable plantations. Timber growth is measurable in cubic metres.

For every new cubic metre of timber, a ton of our planet’s excess carbon dioxide is absorbed, and re-released as life-giving oxygen.

By building a timber home you are not only making a difference to our environment but also saving money in the long run as wood is a natural insulator, saving on the high electrical consumption demand of appliances

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ADVERTORIAL like heaters and air conditioners. For long lasting durability, wood is unbeatable. Unlike synthetics, wood adapts to natural forces; flexing, not cracking under the pressures applied by wind, water and earth. Even in the unlikely event of fire, wood defies conventional wisdom. It is, in fact, safer than synthetics as it burns at a slower rate, and is less liable to melt and suddenly collapse. A fast growing community of architects is starting to embrace the benefits of timber construction and its green value. The added benefits of timber construction are the reduced construction time, and the low impact on the surrounding natural environment.

You can choose designs from our comprehensive portfolio, or provide a design from your own architect.

Eco Log Homes offers a complete range of timber construction methods, including timber frame, log profile cladding, Vermont plank, post and beam and interlocking double tongue & groove solid log. Interior finishes can be customized to any desired texture and colour, including fibre cement board, fire stop gypsum board or timber cladding. Eco Log Homes builds all over South Africa and abroad and the Solid Log Interlocking Tongue & Groove product is gaining popularity in the export market. The Eco Log Home team takes pride in crafting every project to fit your individual needs, budget and aesthetic requirements.

Eco Log Homes welcomes the regular home buyer and home improver, with products that include bank-approvable residential and holiday homes, garden cottages, the finest timber decks and intimate loft-bedrooms that blend seamlessly with your existing brick or concrete structure. In the corporate market, Eco Log Homes has been providing turnkey developments for companies hungry for greener structures; including game lodges, hotels and residential estates. This segment of operations is growing rapidly, and is the company’s core focus for the future.

The future of building has to be green; otherwise, there will be no future.

The timber in every Eco Log home adheres to stringent treatment and structural standards. Each Eco Log home is built strictly according to South African National Standards (SANS 10082:2007) and all other South African building regulations.

Eco Log homes are also built to last. They come with a 10-year structural warrantee and 50-year timber treatment guarantee although an Eco Log home is expected to last well over 300 years if looked after. They are, moreover, crafted in the tradition of Europe’s sturdy wooden homes, many of which have stood for over 300 years.

Whatever the size or scope of future projects, Eco Log Homes remains committed to creating homes in the truest sense, where home means your place of safety, belonging and fulfilment.

By choosing Eco Log Homes, you are not only getting a luxury home that you will enjoy for many years to come but you are helping build a greener future for your children.

Contact us NOW: T 011 462 0308 • info@ecologhomes.co.za www.mediaxpose.co.za

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Contact: T: 0861 618 618 E: gosolar@setsa.co.za

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STRAPHEAD

BUILDING PRODUCTS & SERVICES

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CONTACT

To Advertise Tel: 021 433 1349 / 2309 Fax: 086 516 7277 Mobile: 072 365 4877 Website: www.mediaxpose.co.za

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ON SITE

SANDBLASTING Sandblast Vinyl Window Tinting Clearshield 021 5100 911 SPECIALIST SANDBLASTING OF

GLASS, WOOD, BRICK, CONCRETE, MARBLE, STEEL AND ROADWAYS

Millroy Artysands MILLROY@MILLROYCO.ZA WWW.MILLROY.CO.ZA 154_Millroy_fcp.indd 1

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NOTES www.mediaxpose.co.za

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AKZO NOBEL...................................109 ALUGLASS......................................120 AMS....................................................90 ARMADILLO.....................................156 ARTISTIC FRAMELESS GLASS & ALUMINUIM..........................150, 151

NAMPAK SISALATION.......................54 NEWTOWN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS.....................................32 PAN MIXERS SOUTH AFRICA........130 PG ARCHITECTS...............................21 PG BISON..........................................16 PPC..............................................1, 129 PRISM ARCHITECTS........................18

BATES ACCESS FLOORING.............52

PROGRESS GROUP.......................104

BEAU IDEAL......................................62

RED HAND SIGN SUPPLIES..............9

BKS....................................................39

RETO KITCHENS............................114

BlueScope Steel.......................138

RICHTER & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS.....................................20

BUILD AID CONSULTING....................5 CAPE DECK N FLOOR....................100 CAPE PATIO BLINDS........................75 CDS CEILINGS..................................80

RONAN AGENCIES...........................26 ROOFTEK ROOF TRUSSES.............55 SA FENCE AND GATE.......................95

CEMCRETE.......................................47

SA PAVING.........................................70

CHARLES PEIN & PARTNERS.........38

SA WALLBEDS................................126

CHRISTOPHER MEYER & ASSOCIATES..................................44

SAFAL STEEL..................................136

CIVIC AUTOMATION SYSTEMS.......82

SECURITRONICS..............................96

CV PROJECTS..................................13

SIEMATIC KITCHENS......................113

SAINT-GOBAIN / GYPROC.........78, 79

DE LEEUW GROUP...................29, 158

SOLARTECH....................................148

DECOREX..........................................12

SOLENT TRADING............................88

DITULO OFFICE FURNITURE........124

SOUTH AFRICAN POLYPROPYLENE YARNS ............................................152

DIVA LUCE LIGHTING.......................86 DNA LOGIC........................................83 DUROWIN / COMO............................68

SOUTH AFRICAN READYMIX ASSOCIATION.................................134

EAGLE LIGHTING.............................85

SPEED HEAT.....................................48

ECO LOG HOMES...........143, 144, 145

STORM BLINDS.................................74

ECOSTRONG....................................52

SWISS STONE.....................................7

ENUMERATE CONSULTING.............28

TECHNICRETE..................................72

ERA BRICKS .....................................71

TERRAFORCE...................................34

ERGO SYSTEM.................................64

thermamasta................................58

FIRESPEC SYSTEMS.......................93

TURF-AG..........................................146

FOUR SEASONS ROOF

UCB....................................................24

WINDOWS.........................................60

UNDERFOOT WOODEN FLOORING.........................................46

FURNITURE CITY............................122 GEBERIT..........................................117

UNIQUE STONE................................43

HAMILTON’S....................................110 HOLILI OUTDOOR EMOTIONS.......153

URBAN RAIN SYSTEMS / RAINCELL....................141

HOLILI SA........................................125

VAN DYCK CARPETS.......................49

HYPER FIRES.................................102

VERSUS PAINT...............................106

MAGNET ENGINEERING..................36

VREDE TEXTILES.............................76

MASTER DECKS...............................99

WE FIX IT FRAMELESS GLASS.......66

MILLROY..........................................154

WITCH ROOMS...............................147

MINACO...............................................3

WRT ROOFING CONCEPTS.............59

MUTUAL SAFE..................................92

YORK TIMBERS................................98

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AGGREGATE AND SAND PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA.........................131

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