SA Building Review - Volume 4 - 2016 by Media Xpose

BUILDING REVIEW

ANNUAL ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCE HANDBOOK

SA BUILDING REVIEW

VOLUME 4 | 2016

ANNUAL ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCE HANDBOOK

Concrete:

The quest for sustainable infrastructure construction

VOLUME 4 | 2016

How green is your workspace? Building a sustainable future with energy efﬁcient clay bricks Coordinating space

for optimal engagement and ﬂow

Where practicality meets service delivery www.sabuildingreview.co.za

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Advertorial: Scribante Concrete

Scribante turns up the volume in Gauteng Scribante Concrete has recently added 35 FAW mixers and tippers to its fleet, bringing its total number of FAW units to 89. Pushing for growth in an economic downturn takes tenacity, careful and calculated risk profiling, and considerable research, all flavoured with a touch of foresight. These are the attributes displayed by Scribante Concrete – a division within the larger Scribante Construction Group – as the company expands its reach in Gauteng by commissioning two concrete batching facilities, one in Muldersdrift and the other in Laezonia. Alongside a sizeable investment into plant, equipment and staffing, Scribante Concrete has expanded its fleet

with the purchase of 35 additional FAW vehicles. Going into operation at the West Rand batch plants at present, the new FAW units include 27 FAW 35.340FC 8m3 mixer trucks, six FAW 33.330FC 6m3 mixer trucks, and two FAW 28.280FT side-tipper trucks. Troy Petzer, operations manager for Scribante Concrete, explains: ‘The Scribante Construction Group saw the opportunity, crunched the numbers and, with very careful consideration and planning, decided to invest and expand our Gauteng footprint. We had the chance to acquire the sites for our batch plants.

Troy Petzer of Scribante with two of the latest purchase of FAW mixer trucks.

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Advertorial: Project: Scribante Concrete

Based on a 50km radius for delivering our timesensitive product, we secured suitable construction contracts to support our growing business, as well as enough future prospects to validate our decision to strengthen our position in Gauteng,’ Petzer points out. ‘We’ve been running FAW mixers and tippers in our fleet for nearly three years. Based on the total cost of ownership calculation, together with superb aftermarket service and support, our choice fell to FAW as we replaced older vehicles in the fleet and began equipping for the West Rand plants,’ he adds. ‘Besides the vehicles, we’ve refurbished and installed the batching plants, appointed a management team for sales and customer contact, secured staffing for concrete production and for our maintenance and service workshop, and acquired drivers for our new extended fleet. ‘As we’ve done in the past, Scribante Concrete will attend to basic service and maintenance on the vehicles on site. To this end we’ve appointed two technicians. All technical training, driver orientation and testing, as well as 24/7 parts supply is provided and guaranteed by FAW SA, which we’ve come to trust. This was a crucial element in our purchase decision,’ Petzer affirms. He certainly aims to get every ounce of work out of each vehicle. However, the performance of each unit, or cubes per day as he puts it, is highly dependent on the operating environment. Other Scribante Concrete production sites in Gauteng are based in Midrand and near Kyalami Business Park. Past projects served from these sites include the upgrade of both N2 and N3 freeways, and supplying concrete for a tunnel section of the Gautrain project between Malboro and Linbro Park. ‘We’re not new to the pressures of transportation in Gauteng – highways with high traffic volumes, extended peak-time congestion, eTolls, and generally aggressive driver behaviour. Key to our efficiency formula is the net cost per cube of our concrete product. We intend to continue securing contracts, offering competitive pricing by ensuring we have a high volume throughput from our West Rand operations,’ Petzer maintains.

Not prepared to disclose the planned output for the West Rand plants, Petzer was willing to say that the volume targets are aggressive and will demand superior customer service by Scribante. In turn, the demand on the FAW truck fleet will be for maximum uptime, easy and efficient driving, highly effective parts supply, and the lowest cost of operation. ‘We’re up for it. We’ve been in the business for over 16 years, have the advantage of a strong foundation through the Scribante Construction Group, and we have the experience and know-how needed to distinguish ourselves in this highly competitive industry. ‘With respect to our transportation requirements, we have walked the road with FAW and ironed out many bumps. Today, our relationship is highly collaborative.’ The specialised truck modifications required and designed by Scribante have been incorporated by FAW SA into their offering. ‘These specifications can be applied to the benefit of other FAW clients for their ready-mix concrete mixer trucks,’ says FAW’s regional manager, Vernon Rudman, who is the main point of contact for Scribante Concrete and looks after its needs regarding the FAW fleet. ‘The changes requested by Scribante were approved by our parent plant and applied to the mixer trucks, chassis and mixer bodies. The continuous improvement we were able to incorporate once again underpins the value of pursuing and maintaining a close relationship with a customer. They know their business best and we know our trucks best. Together we can improve and provide solutions that satisfy our customers’ needs,’ Rudman notes. ‘Together with Scribante Concrete, FAW SA has refined our robust and durable mixer trucks to provide even stronger and longer-lasting operational efficiency. This serves both our customers and our own interests – it really is a win-win situation.’ ‘As Scribante has shown continued support of our brand, so too will we continue to develop and improve not only our product, but our personal service and aftermarket support,’ Rudman adds. ‘Scribante’s planned strategy and its success in Gauteng, depends partly on our FAW vehicles – a challenge for which we are fully prepared,’ Petzer concludes.

FAW VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS SA (PTY) LTD. 45 Brabazon Road, Isando, Gauteng, South Africa T +27 87 702 0800 F +27 11 974 3933

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BUILDING REVIEW

ANNUAL ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCE HANDBOOK

“What we need to do is really improve energy efficiency standards, develop in full scale renewable and alternative energy, and use the one resource we have in abundance, our creativity.” – Lois Capps

Editor’s Note The South African market is becoming increasingly regulated and various quality standards have recently been adopted, such as SANS 204 for Energy Efficiency in Buildings and SANS 517 for Light Steel Frame Building. Consequently, alternative building methods such as dry construction are gradually replacing traditional construction. Compliance with SANS 204 will not necessarily produce a green building, but it will produce an energy-efficient building by any standard. Light steel frame building has become popular because it supports sustainable building as far as design and energy efficiency is concerned. It has been proven to be far more energy efficient than more traditional construction methods and offers a significant carbon footprint reduction. Even though the steel construction industry is currently under significant pressure, the South African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC), is certainly not pessimistic about the future. The SAISC together with its allied associations will work together to ensure the growth of their member businesses and to ensure the industry reaches its full potential over the years. Certainly this can guarantee an economic ascendancy to be working under one roof. However, the main advantage is the experience of dedicated industry players who have the industry knowledge to ensure the strengthening of skills for the steel construction industry in South Africa. The lack of meaningful projects is the most important issue currently facing the steel construction industry but ensuring projects come on stream is an industry priority. Pricing is obviously another crucial element to the industry’s success but measures are in place to ensure a more level playing field in terms of pricing. Let’s promote and develop energy-efficiency practices and standards in different energy sectors. We look forward to what 2016 has in store for us to ensure a more effective approach to energy efficiency in buildings. I would like to thank all our advertisers and editorial contributors for their great support in this edition and over the past four years. We have begun work on our next issue due out in February 2017, which also marks our fifth anniversary edition, and look forward to your advertising and editorial support to celebrate this milestone. Best wishes for the year ahead, and please feel free to submit your completed projects during 2016 to be considered for publication in 2017. Best regards Elroy van Heerden E editor@sabuildingreview.co.za

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BUILDING REVIEW

ANNUAL ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCE HANDBOOK

PUBLISHER

404 Commerce House, 55 Short Market Street, Cape Town, 8000 PO Box 15165, Vlaeberg, 8018 Tel: 021 424 3625 Fax: 086 517 7277 PUBLISHING EDITOR: Elroy van Heerden editor@sabuildingreview.co.za SUB-EDITOR: Emma Dawson emma@ediwrite.com CONTENT MANAGER: Melanie Taylor artwork@mediaxpose.co.za DESIGN AND LAYOUT: CDC Design carla@cdcdesign.co.za EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Gareth Grifﬁths Sean Pienaar Diale Mokgojwa Gareth Burley Daniel van der Merwe Mohammed Sami Lori Booth Craig Mcclenaghan Dummett & Co Watt Communications Laverick Media FEATURED PROJECTS - CONTRIBUTORS: EHH Architects Nico van der Meulen Architects GBCSA Swiss Contact Roodt Architects Gapp Architects Typology Architects Mashabane Rose Asssociates Renier Bronn Architects 3A Composites GMBH Architecture Display- Europe PROJECT MANAGER: Sarina Afonso sarina@mediaxpose.co.za ACOUNT MANAGERS – ADVERTISING: Zahida Mohammed zahida@sabuildingreview.co.za Rene van Heerden rene@sabuildingreview.co.za RECEPTION / EXECUTIVE PA: Janine Mays receptionist@mediaxpose.co.za FINANCIAL DIRECTOR: Shaun Mays shaun@mediaxpose.co.za

PRINTED BY Paarl Media Paarl www.paarlmedia.co.za 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 statements 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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BUILDING REVIEW

contents 4 14 18 20 23 26 33 36 44 62 78

ANNUAL ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCE HANDBOOK

86 100 188

Editor’s Note Cover Story Application for a construction work permit: Criteria The effect of the new B-BBEE codes on the construction Industry New blasthole drills mobile app for the Pit Viper Series Is construction in the cloud Africa’s answer? A landmark achievement for design and interior fit-out Top-quality Floors for Forest Military Base Where practicality meets service delivery How green is your workspace? Dow’s new Polyurethane Systems House benefits SA’s construction Industry Concrete: The quest for sustainable infrastructure construction Large manufactures saves big with energy-efficient lighting Advertisers Index

Featured Projects: 28 54 66 73 82

94 104 108 114 120 126 138 144 150

Ivemvane: Inspiring transformation Building a sustainable future with energy efﬁcient clay bricks 130 Strand Street: A fresh new look for a school of brand leadership House in Blair Atholl: Design with a difference University of the Free State: New Visitor Centre for the University of the Free State Alucobond – A protective mask New home for Central Media Group Perskor: Streamlining facilities Park Inn by Radisson Cape Town Foreshore Hotel achieves Green Leaf Standard The latest piece in the Newtown puzzle House Roodt – 2015 Edge Restaurant: FSIA Award for Architecture 2015 PPC’s residential development partnerships SARETEC: Coordinating space for optimal engagement and ﬂow

Technical Features:

78 8

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162 168 172 175 178

Green makeover for a grand old dame Flooding keeps project professionals busy The built environment – fragile in the face of ﬁre Sustainability options – is new better than old? Holistic approach underpins sustainability

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ANNUAL ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCE HANDBOOK

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Scribante Concrete Trumod – the Light Steel Frame suppliers of choice Samsung DVMS eco-friendly climate control Sika proudly preserves PE promenade Leading the future in sustainable pipe solutions Understanding wood preservation Geberit actuator plate Palram Industries South Africa Cochrane ClearVu invisible wall Mapei technology provides the ideal solution for repairing concrete Thermatech technology from Bluescope External Venetian blinds Alucobond – the original aluminium composite material Controlling light, saving energy Exceptional service and quality products guaranteed The perfect water storage solution Quality coating ensure quality protection Vandalism-proof public sanitary room equipment Isover’s environmentally friendly insulation A ‘vital’ service to industry A proﬁle of success Latest in waterprooﬁng The future of architectural cladding Operating with SAVI Embracing green technology Mota-Engil Construction Make STIHL part of your team Aveng Infraset pavers add lustre to a Gauteng shopping centre Aveng Infraset retaining wall bricks stabilise Renico Plant Hire relies on Mercedes Benz tip top tippers

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Cover Story: Vaal Sanitaryware

The cost of not investing in energy efficiency Energy efficiency and sustainability is much more than just recycling, it is a matter of how a company does business and how serious it is about its commitment to preserve the future. According to Gerard Deeb from Vaal Sanitaryware, energy efficiency is about effectively saving power.

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Cover Story: Vaal Sanitaryware

‘The prominence of saving energy came to the fore in South Africa after the 2008 Eskom scare. Energy saving opens up a scope of opportunities for entrepreneurs to come up with sustainable solutions and alternative energy sources – it should not be seen as a negative as it could be turned into a huge positive,’ says Gerard Deeb, Product Services Manager at Vaal Sanitaryware. According to Deeb, water harvesting will become critically important, and ways to achieve cost-effective water desalination need to be found. Desalination is the process that removes minerals and salts from saline water, which means sea water can be utilised. A prime example of water resource importance can be found in a near disaster not too long ago. In 1983 the Comrades Marathon was almost cancelled because of the then water crisis. Desalination was used to provide enough water for the event and averted having to cancel it. Water could be a very good alternative energy source, if innovation and science can come up with affordable ways of transforming sea water and grey water. Few people consider where electricity comes from when they flip on a light switch or push the start button on a computer. Almost everyone in developed areas has grown up in homes that are powered by electricity. This makes it very easy to take energy for granted, without realising the cost to both the environment and your bank account. The truth is that all energy produced and used has an impact on the environment. Even energy from completely natural sources impacts the earth. For example, the energy from a lightning strike of a tree often results in the tree being burned. How detrimental that impact is will be determined by the type of energy and the amount used. A few interesting energy facts: • Energy consumption could be cut by 11% by 2020 through simple building efficiency measures such as more efficient lighting, water heating and appliances. In this category are also water-saving devices in bathrooms. • Americans consume 26% of the world’s energy. • Around 18% of total emissions come from operating our homes. • Heating and cooling accounts for about 56% of the energy used in a typical home. • At any time in most households, an average of eight appliances are left on stand-by. Stand-by is an appliance’s ‘off’ setting, but the appliance continues to use about 85% of the energy it uses while on, often so that it can ‘listen’ for signals from remote controls. • Almost 90% of the energy used by traditional bulbs is wasted in producing heat. • About 25% of all the energy we use to heat our homes escapes through single-glazed windows. • On average 10% of our electricity bill is spent on powering lights. (Source: www.chelseagreen.com/blogs/ten-surprising-facts-about-theenergy-we-use/#sthash.x3Jy69eq.dpuf)

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Has energy efficiency only become important of late?

Unfortunately energy saving and alternative power sources are costly, and public debate about the energy transition is dominated by questions surrounding costs. We have long since known about dwindling resources and the need for increased energy efficiency, but the point is that energy transition must be implemented much more cost effectively. Energy policy remains the subject of intense debate, but not the question of whether to pursue the energy transition, rather only the question of how. Adherents to green politics tend to consider energy saving and environmental responsibility to be part of a ‘higher’ world view and not simply a political ideology. Green policies stress the personal responsibility of every individual to make moral choices. Of course, unease about adverse consequences of human actions on nature predates the modern concept of environmentalism. Social commentators in ancient Rome and China complained of air, water and noise pollution. Leaving less of a carbon footprint, conserving and saving is then in the end as old as humanity itself. However, our challenge in a modern-day world is to supply enough for an ever-increasing demand, and to do this cost effectively and energy wisely. It’s a very old problem, but is becoming ever more dramatic as resources dwindle daily and demand escalates frighteningly.

Vaal, Libra and Plexicor sustainability

Vaal Sanitaryware, Libra Bathrooms and Plexicor have recently become part of the global giant, GROHE. LIXIL, the holding company of GROHE, acquired 51% of the new company Grohe Dawn Watertech Holdings (Pty) Ltd. Vaal Sanitaryware, Libra Bathrooms and Plexicor understand the importance of looking after the environment and being environmentally sustainable in terms of both product manufacture and factory operations. Sustainability measures include: • Utilisation of gas as a means of electricity reduction • Onsite crushing plant that results in 80% reuse of rejects and 20% off-site recycling of raw material • Heat recovery from kilns used in dryers and ovens • Onsite wooden pallet recycling • Stack emission monitoring • Dust fall-out monitoring • Management of waste – reduce, reuse, recycle • Separation and correct disposal of all general and hazardous waste • Ongoing luminaire energy saving project throughout our entire production areas • Compliance with local, national and international norms and standards

Committed to quality, comfort and aesthetics

For over a century, collectively, the household brands of Vaal, Libra and Plexicor have been committed

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Cover Story: Vaal Sanitaryware

to producing quality, durable, and sophisticated ceramic and acrylic bathroom products. While quality is at the fore, demonstrated through a comprehensively designed range of toilets, basins, bidets, urinals, baths and shower trays – representative of years of research and development – all products are also manufactured with comfort and aesthetics in mind. The sanitary ware cluster employs just over 400 factory staff at its Meyerton plant – a sophisticated factory that ensures it serves local and export markets with both standard and upmarket sanitary ware. In addition to these lines, Libra also produces a range of exclusive, Whirlpool indoor and outdoor spa tubs. Vaal, Libra and Plexicor are driven by a desire to be top of mind and, as a result, are focused and forward thinking. Committed to keeping up with growing popularity and demand, the company has developed a professional network of distributors throughout southern Africa. This network is capable of being attentive to the needs of every sector of the sanitary ware market. The brands are committed to delivering quality products with professional partners who are passionate about each of the three brands, both individually and as a combined offering. While the domestic and hospitality markets remain important, there is also a commitment to servicing hospitals, clinics, shopping centres, office blocks and schools with appropriate products. In addition to this, Vaal Sanitaryware also services the disabled market with a distinctive range of paraplegic suites. Vaal, Libra and Plexicor are proudly South African and are represented in South Africa and into southern Africa, including in Huambo in Angola, Maputo in Mozambique, Lusaka in Zambia, Harare in Zimbabwe, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, and in Lubumbashi, DRC. Further to these established African markets, the company looks forward to tapping into other developing African markets that include Kenya, Uganda, Malawi and Ghana. While the brands are dedicated to keeping up with the times, current research and design is focused on expanding water-saving mechanisms while also focusing on the launch of new and dynamic product ranges.

VAAL SANITARYWARE, LIBRA BATHROOMS AND PLEXICOR T +27 016 360 6000 E vaalsan@dawnltd.co.za W www.vaalsan.co.za

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Editorial: Johan Louw & Associates

Application for a construction work permit: Criteria By Johan Louw, Senior Consultant & Director of Johan Louw & Associates (Pty) Ltd

The application for a construction work permit is a new Regulation to the Construction Regulations, 2014, and relates to both private and public sector-related construction work. Private sector-related construction work

It is compulsory for clients in the private sectors to apply for a construction work permit in the form of Annexure 1, thirty (30) days prior to the commencement of the intended construction work as contemplated in Regulation 3(1) of the Construction Regulations, 2014, which was amended in GOVERNMENT GAZETTE: NO. 39025 OF 24 JULY 2015, NOTICE NO. 641. The amendment for private sector-related construction work regarding the criteria, which makes it compulsory to apply for a construction work permit is as follows: 1. If the intended construction work started after August 7, 2015, and the works contract is of a value exceeding R130 million. This requirement is only applicable until February 6, 2017. 2. If the intended construction work starts on or after February 7, 2017, and the works contract is of a value exceeding R40 million. This requirement is only applicable until August 6, 2018. 3. If the intended construction work starts on or after August 7, 2018, and any one or more of the following aspects are applicable to such work, after which it becomes an obligation until amended or repealed by the Minister of the Department of Labour: a. The work will exceed 365 days, b. The work will involve more than 3 800 person days of construction work, or c. The works contract is of a value exceeding R13 million.

Public sector-related construction work

It is compulsory for clients in the public sector to apply for a construction work permit in the form of Annexure 1, thirty (30) days prior to the commencement of the intended construction work as contemplated in Regulation 3(1) of the Construction Regulations, 2014, which was amended in GOVERNMENT GAZETTE: NO. 39025 OF 24 JULY 2015, NOTICE NO. 641. The amendment for public sector-related construction work regarding the criteria, which makes

it compulsory to apply for a construction work permit is as follows: 1. If the intended construction work started after August 7, 2015, and the works contract is of a value that requires a Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) grading level 9 contractor. This requirement is only applicable until February 6, 2017. 2. If the intended construction work starts on or after February 7, 2017, and the works contract is of a value that requires a Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) grading level 8. This requirement is only applicable until February 6, 2017. 3. If the intended construction work starts on or after August 7, 2018, and any one or more of the following aspects are applicable to such work, after which it becomes an obligation until amended or repealed by the Minister of the Department of Labour:: a. The work will exceed 365 days, b. The work will involve more than 3 800 person days of construction work, or c. The works contract is of a value which requires a Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) grading level 7. The reason for the works contract value not being mentioned for public sector-related construction work is that the grading designation of a contractor by default determines the upper limit of the tender value range.

Contractor grading designations

Contractor grading designations are determined by the financial capability and works capability, which entail the following: The available capital is calculated by adding any financial sponsorship to the sum of the net asset value (NAV) of a contractor as determined by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB). For enquiries regarding this topic, please contact Karien Louw (karien@jla-solutions.co.za) at Johan Louw & Associates (Pty) Ltd.

JOHAN LOUW & ASSOCIATES (PTY) LTD T +27 082 575 3524 E johan.louw@jla-solutions.co.za

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2016/01/13 10:19 AM

Editorial: New B-BBEE Codes

The effect of the new B-BBEE codes on the construction industry In May, the amended Codes of Good Practice on Black Economic Empowerment came into operation following amendments to the Act during October 2014. However, while these new Codes do not apply to the construction industry, members of this sector are advised to ensure that their B-BBEE policies are aligned accordingly or face being left behind by their competitors. In an attempt to achieve uniformity, procurement procedure in the public sphere and even to a limited degree in the private sphere, is based on the best practice guidelines set out by the CIDB from time to time. These guidelines make provision for four methods of adjudication of tenders. Two of these (which include the generally preferred method) make preference for a scoring item, and a company’s B-BBEE status is therefore a major consideration when tenders are adjudicated upon. On 1 May 2015, the amended Codes of Good Practice on Black Economic Empowerment came into operation following amendments to the act during October 2014, which affects all companies in South Africa and, in particular, the manner in which their B-BBEE status is determined. Although these new Codes do not apply to the construction industry, being one of the sectors that has its own sector Codes, the industry had until the end of October 2015 to align its current sector codes with the new Codes. As a matter of urgency, members of the construction industry are therefore advised to ensure that their B-BBEE policies are aligned accordingly, or face being left behind by their competitors. A quick consideration of the amendments to the Act reveals Government’s intention to encourage or prefer black ownership and to curtail fronting practices that have developed to curb the effects of the B-BBEE system by non-compliant entities.

What amendments have been made to the Act?

1. A B-BBEE Commission has been established to oversee, supervise and promote adherence to the provisions of the Act. In other words, complaints for non-compliance can be received by the commission, investigated, adjudicated upon, and most importantly, sanctions can be imposed. 2. The concept of fronting has been introduced and widely defined as ‘a transaction, arrangement or other act or conduct that directly or indirectly undermines or frustrates the achievement of the objectives of the Act’.

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3. Introducing a wide range of criminal offences from knowingly misrepresenting your entity’s status to providing false information during the B-BBEE status verification process. 4. If your entity is found guilty of an offence in terms of the Act, a sanction of imprisonment for up to 10 years, or a fine of up to 10% of your entity’s turnover can be imposed. 5. The Act further empowers organs of state and public entities to cancel a contract awarded to your entity provided such contract was awarded on account of false information knowingly.

The codes

The codes that have been released and that are in operation clearly state that the fundamental consideration in assessing compliance is substance as opposed to legal form. As stated, and although these codes do not apply directly to the construction industry, they provide the basis upon which the construction industry will have to revise its sector Codes. The amendments have reduced the assessment criteria that determine status from seven key categories to five, namely ownership, management control, skills development, enterprise and supplier development, and socio-economic development. Employment equity and preferential procurement has largely been incorporated in the remaining five categories, but the most important difference is that an entity can no longer elect to be assessed on their best four out of the seven criteria. An entity will now be assessed on its compliance with ALL five criteria.

“

The amendments have reduced the assessment criteria that determine status from seven key categories to five.

”

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Editorial: New B-BBEE Codes

BBBEE Level

Amended Codes

Previous Codes

> 100 points

> 100

> 95 but < 100 points

> 85 but < 100

> 90 but < 95 points

> 75 but < 85

> 80 but < 90 points

> 65 but < 75

> 75 but < 80 points

> 55 but < 65

> 70 but < 75 points

> 45 but < 55

> 55 but < 70 points

> 40 but < 45

> 40 but < 55 points

> 30 but < 40

Non-compliant

< 40 points

< 30

Element

Weighting Points (Amended Codes)

Weighting Points (Previous Codes)

Ownership

20 plus 3 bonus points

Management Control

15 plus 4 bonus points

Management Control 10 plus one bonus point Employment equity - 15 plus three bonus points

Skills Development

20 plus five bonus points

Skills development - 15

New Enterprise and Supplier Development

40 plus four bonus points

Preferential procurement - 20 Enterprise development - 15

Socio - Economic Development

Total

118

107

In other words when, in the past, entities were able to elect not to be assessed on ownership, they will now be assessed thereon and if not compliant, stand to lose up to 25 (28 if bonus points apply) points. Your shortcomings can therefore not be made up elsewhere as it was in the past. Your status level is scored and assessed as follows: Some relief is afforded to entities in that the total number of available points in the five categories that are now being considered has increased from 107 to 118, which may reduce the negative

effect on some entities, although not substantially. The above is merely a short informative summation of the amendments to the act and their impact. However, there are several amendments and nuisances that are not mentioned above and entities should ensure they are fully advised in accordance with the distinctive circumstances of their businesses when amending their B-BBEE policies. For assistance in this regard a qualified and experienced professional at Enderstein van de Merwe is available.

ENDERSTEIN VAN DER MERWE T +27 021 914 0770 (Cape Town) T +27 011 615 8591 (Johannesburg) E admin@endvdm.co.za W www.endvdm.co.za

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2016/01/14 12:29 PM

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2016/01/13 10:20 AM

Editorial: Blasthole Drills drills Mobile mobile App app

New blasthole drills mobile app for the Pit Viper Series From the open pit to the palm of your hand, Atlas Copco is bringing the Pit Viper blasthole drill series to your Apple tablet and mobile device. The new app focuses on Atlas Copco’s Pit Viper blasthole drills, with the latest case stories, product information and interactive 3D models. The application was designed to better illustrate the features and benefits of Atlas Copco’s Pit Viper series, so customers and salesman around the world can use it on the go, with or without internet access. Users can interact with each model to see a variety of features and benefits related to safety, productivity, serviceability and fuel consumption. The goal of this app is to give our customers and sales team a more hands-on tool, a better understanding of components, and ability to request more information on a particular product at any time. With a design that’s simple to use, users are able to interact with the Pit Viper series, read up on information regarding the DM blasthole series and Rig Control System (RCS), and stay up to date with the latest that Atlas Copco has to offer to the blasthole drilling market.

Company profile

Atlas Copco is a world-leading provider of sustainable productivity solutions. The Group serves customers with innovative compressors, vacuum solutions and air treatment systems, construction and mining equipment, power tools and assembly systems. Atlas Copco develops products and service focused on productivity, energy efficiency, safety and ergonomics. The company was founded in 1873, is based in Stockholm, Sweden, and has a global reach spanning more than 180 countries. In 2014, Atlas Copco had revenues of €10.3 and more than 44 000 employees. Drilling Solutions is a division within Atlas Copco’s Mining and Rock Excavation Technique business area. It develops, manufactures, and markets a wide range of rotary drilling equipment for use in surface mining, exploration, construction, water well, aggregate, and shallow oil and gas applications worldwide. The divisional headquarters and main production center are located in Garland, Texas, US. Atlas Copco Underground Rock Excavation is a division within Atlas Copco’s Mining and Rock Excavation Technique business area. It develops, manufactures, and markets a wide range of tunneling

and mining equipment for various underground applications worldwide. The division focuses strongly on innovative product design and aftermarket support systems, which give added customer value. The divisional headquarters and main production center is in Örebro, Sweden. To download the Pit Viper Mobile App, visit www.atlascopco.com.

ATLAS COPCO DRILLING SOLUTIONS T +27 011 821 9135 / +27 011 252 9985 E willem.botha@za.atlascopco.com W www.atlascopco.com

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Editorial: Control Systems

Is construction in the cloud Africa’s answer? Globally the construction industry has been labelled as a late adopter, but the advent of mobility and resulting trends, such as Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), has led to the industry adversely using technology for the industry’s effective management. Ironically, developed to make business easier and progress faster, these tools have caused disarray for construction projects. There are now too many methods of communication and little in place to manage any of it. ‘At a time when the construction industry needs to consider a system to manage projects more effectively, the level of resistance remains high. The reality is that no one person or team within the currently adopted method of information creation and dissemination can effectively manage a construction project. This places immense strain on projects and the teams behind them,’ says John Haefele, managing director of Onsite Control Systems, a cloud collaboration solutions provider for construction in Africa. In Capterra’s global survey published earlier this year, just over half (52%) of respondents said they use construction management software. But a weighty 48% rely on standard forms of construction management. Haefele says Africa’s adoption figures are much worse and, given the continent’s opportunities as an emerging market, an online solution needs to be more fully embraced. ‘Doing business in Africa has enough infrastructural, governmental, regulatory, and skills shortages challenges that we do need to use technology to assist in meeting the significant construction challenges to grow the continent and meet its economics demands.’ The Capterra survey reveals the dominant technology solution is a mix of Excel and email, while a minority of users rely on VPN file transfers. About a quarter report using ‘other’ construction management techniques, which could range from text messages, handwritten checklists, or forgoing a formal process altogether. This survey proves why construction management companies need to consider an online collaboration system. ‘There are simply too many ways for projects to go awry based on the multitude of communications tools used, and the lack of central management and record keeping,’ Haefele adds.

John Haefele

He believes that multiple channels and communication methods create many challenges in the construction industry, and are the reasons why the struggle continues. ‘Slow adaption towards any change in the traditionally accepted method of information creation and flow, as well as the technology required, are significant challenges and definite stumbling blocks. These issues need to be addressed now if we are going to successfully move the construction industry forward.’ Haefele has developed a local solution, the OnSiteIMS™ System, to address these requirements. With 20 years’ experience in the industry, Haefele insists: ‘There is a dire need to break away from traditional and old-school approaches to construction management. The answer lies in rethinking the information creation, dissemination and management methods across all channels and for all disciplines. We need to adopt a cooperative approach through a single online communication platform to replace the myriad untraceable information routes and means used today.’ The OnSiteIMS™ solution is a cloud-based collaboration system that provides one platform for all development related information. It reengineers information creation methods across channels and from all disciplines, allowing the channelling of any information type (instructions, correspondence, documents, actions, drawings, requests) between the client, developer, professional team and contractor, and onto subcontractors and suppliers in a manner that is manageable, productive, efficient and traceable, from both mobile and online interfaces. It provides one easy, secure, reliable, and always available framework for communication creation and flow, reducing the resourcing needed to manage the various disciplines, as well as in managing themselves.

ONSITE CONTROL SYSTEMS W www.onsiteims.com

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Project: Ivemvane

Inspiring transformation Ivemvane: New lecture venues for the University of Johannesburg. The University of Johannesburg strives ‘to inspire its community to transform and serve humanity through innovation and the collaborative pursuit of knowledge’. This vision has embodied the University’s philosophy since its foundation as an amalgamation of tertiary educational institutions in 2005, and its progress is evidenced through a steady increase in student intake over the past five years. Ivemvane is the personification of these principles in built form. Two auditoria flank a main courtyard and lock into the final piece of the 1960’s campus master plan, providing seating for 1 500 students. Ivemvane (isiZulu) refers to the plan and three-dimensional realisation of the building; an elegant yet strong sculptural form, delicately poised in its surroundings. The name also connects to the gathering of knowledge, the process of intellectual growth and emergence of new ideas. Ivemvane bursts energetically from its context, intrinsically connected to its past with a new vision reflected in difference. The existing brutalist monolithic structures refer to previous institutions, the new building

an expression of dynamic transformation and progress.

Building tectonics

The wing forms of Ivemvane are a direct response to the functional requirements of the auditorium plan and internal acoustic design. Seating is designed in a broad fan shape to bring students as close to the lecturer as possible, and the sectional ramps and steps are generated through an analysis of optimal viewer ergonomics for image projection. The upward movement towards the rear of the auditorium is further used to create covered Wi-Fi study space externally. Rheinzink is the main external cladding component for Ivemvane, selected to adapt to and enhance the strong, refined, contemporary expression of the building while providing an exceptionally durable barrier to the elements. By contrast, the loose arrangement of locally-sourced Saligna planks as a ceiling cladding assist acoustic absorption in the courtyard and provide a more tactile contextual counterpoint to the machined skin.

PROJECT DETAILS

Project Name: Ivemvane: New lecture venues for the University of Johannesburg Project Address: Auckland Park Campus, Kingsway, Gauteng Total Project Cost: R66m Building Cost: R23 500/m2

GAPP ARCHITECTS/URBAN DESIGNERS T +27 011 482 1648/+27 021 424 2390 W www.gapp.net

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2016/01/14 12:32 PM

Advertorial: Trumod

Upmarket residential house – Gauteng

Student residence – Stellenbosch University

Trumod – the Light Steel Frame suppliers of choice Suppliers of light steel frame structures for the building industry. Trumod is a design and manufacturing enterprise that has been supplying light steel structures for the last eight years. As a member of Clyde Industrial Corporation Trumod has direct access to significant stock holding of slit steel, allowing the company to react to fluctuation in demand, putting it in the ideal position to offer customers a speedy and consistent supply of rolled sections. Trumod is most probably the only manufacturer worldwide that has three manufacturing systems, having found that a single manufacturing system does not offer the capability to effectively serve the full light steel frame market. These advanced technologies each have characteristics that are well suited to a specific market sector: For wall framing Trumod makes extensive use of Framemaster/FrameCAD. The system offers software that is ideal for wall and floor frame designs. Its wall frames have been used in a variety of innovative building projects and the company’s expertise in this regard ranges from the erection of simplistic structures for relief housing, to multi story buildings and large warehouses. The company offers singular designs for student accommodation, residential houses and school buildings. The frames, as with trusses, can be flat packed for cost effective and easy transport. Trumod also contracts in an architectural design team that provides customers with 3D modelling of the proposed structure. This tool provides significant insight in the outlay of the building. Roof trusses – large span. A Scottsdale machine rolls a steel section that is well suited for the larger roof spans. Trumod’s optimised truss design offers cost effective support for any type of roof cover, and the company has designed and provided trusses with a clear span of 30m. This length of truss would be very costly to transport – and therefore a service of rolling trusses on site is offered. The trusses are then assembled for lifting and

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fixing to the support structure. Truss assembly is simple as all members have been pre-cut and punched. No jigs are required and members can be bolted together using local labour. This technology is well suited for the roof structures of churches, halls and sheds. Roof trusses – short span. Trumod has acquired ‘U’ truss machines and technology from Vela Building Systems. The trusses are well suited for the shorter span roof structures, such as affordable and RDP housing projects. The company has the capacity to manufacture in excess of 17 500 trusses per month – this equates to approximately 2 500 roofs of 40m2. Trumod is currently supplying roof trusses to a number of RDP projects countrywide. With these advanced steel manufacturing systems at its disposal, Trumod matches the most effective product to its customers’ needs. As members of SASFA (www.sasfa.co.za), the controlling body for light steel framing, all designs comply with SANS 517. Trumod is one of very few manufacturers that has the design capabilities and manufacturing capacity to meet customers’ demands, and prides itself on supplying cost effective, quality structures to satisfied customers.

TRUMOD T +27 011 363 1960 (Gauteng) T +27 071 896 7089 (Western Cape) C 082 320 1959 W www.trumod.co.za

Members of SASFA www.sasfa.co.za

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2016/01/14 8:52 AM

Project: Standard Bank

A landmark achievement for design and interior fit-out Reinforcing Standard Bank’s green leadership, the financial services provider’s first to seventh floor offices located on Simmonds Street in Johannesburg’s CBD has achieved a 5-Star Green Star SA Interiors rating. Standard Bank’s building at No.3 Simmonds Street is the second interior project in the country to be rated using the Green Star SA Interiors Pilot rating tool, following on from the Green Building Council SA’s (GBCSA) own Green Star Interiors rating, making it a landmark achievement for design and interior fit-out in South Africa. In addition, the bank’s Century City Branch, located inside Canal Walk Shopping Centre in Cape Town, has achieved a 4-Star Green Star SA Interiors v1 rating, as has Standard Bank’s Kuruman branch.

Says Brian Wilkinson, CEO of the GBCSA: ‘Standard Bank was the main sponsor of the innovative Interiors rating tool, which will go a long way to assure people that they are working, shopping and living in healthy environments. They have also taken their commitment beyond this, walking the talk, by using the tool on their own offices. The overall aim of this new rating tool is to encourage the reduced environmental impact of interior projects.’ Wilkinson explains that the tool gives recognition to the design of interior spaces that provide spatial efficiency and improve productivity and occupant

Century City Branch, Canal Walk Shopping Centre, Cape Town

3 Simmonds Street Office, Johannesburg CBD

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Project: Standard Bank

performance. It looks at a whole range of important factors, including the quality of internal air, lighting, temperatures, and visual comfort, acoustic quality, ergonomics, as well as energy monitoring and greenhouse gas emissions. With a focus on educating staff and visitors about the sustainable initiatives that were implemented at Standard Bank, and to help staff use the building in a way that maximises its advantages, the building has its own Occupants User Guide. The building now also features a ‘green owner’s commitment’, making energy, water and waste monitoring and reporting a priority. Visual displays of these results and consumption data recorded by water and energy meters are displayed in the foyers and lifts of the refurbished building as a learning resource for building users to show them their environmental footprint. Nathi Manzana, Standard Bank’s Head of Professional and Technical Services, comments: ‘As a proud sponsor of the Green Star SA Interiors

Pilot Rating, it made sense for us to apply this tool to our own building. We are committed to sustainable business and sustainable building practices. Not only are we supporting the environment but also providing a productive, comfortable space for people to do their jobs effectively while, at the same time, educating them about their environmental impact.’ In addition to energy and water sub-metering, other features of the refurb include occupancy sensors for all light fittings, daylight harvesting and dimming of fluorescents lights and an energy-efficient, watercooled chiller plant. Underfloor air distribution via fan coil units has been installed and a full economy cycle fresh air plant has also been provided. This ensures that the quality of internal air provided is operating at a rate 33%, greater than the requirements of SANS 10400-O-2011. The building also makes use of Energy Star-rated appliances, and all printers and photocopy equipment are certified as having low emissions.

Century City Branch, Canal Walk Shopping Centre, Cape Town

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Project: Standard Bank

Kuruman Branch, Kuruman, Northern Cape

Low volatile organic compounds paint, adhesives, sealants and carpets are also used throughout the offices to reduce the internal air pollutant levels, and innovation points were achieved for the reuse of an existing building, as well as having an educated Green Star SA Accredited Professional (GSSA AP) design team. The initiative has not only benefitted Standard Bank, its people and the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visitors, but has many other far-reaching positive impacts. As part of the development, the project design team members passed their GSSA AP exam and are now qualified Accredited Professionals, either in the Green Star SA new building rating tool or Interiors rating tool. Materials used within the fit-out were sourced locally whenever possible. To further reduce the environmental impact, it was also a requirement for the majority of all furniture, assembles, flooring and wallcoverings within the refurbishment to either be

reused, have a recycled content, have a certified label or, alternatively, be designed for disassembly so that the item could be easily moved or reused at a later stage. At the Standard Bank Century City branch, the bank has gone the extra mile by continuously displaying sustainability initiatives implemented in its fit-out as learning resources for users and visitors. In its foyers, the branch displays energy and water consumption data, as well as initiatives to encourage environmentally responsible steps. Recycling is encouraged through informative posters on designated bins to demonstrate waste types that can be recycle in the branch. Besides its energy-efficient operation, low-emission equipment and low volatile organic compound materials, Standard Bank also undertook an ergonomic assessment of its office furniture and workstations and achieved innovation points for its Hazardous Materials Survey and Universal access.

GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL SOUTH AFRICA W www.gbcsa.org.za

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2016/01/14 4:45 PM

Editorial: Durable Flooring

Top-quality floors for Forest Hill Military Base Sika was recently chosen to supply its top quality products for a 1 800m2 flooring project as part of renovations to the South African National Defense Force Forest Hill Military Base in Port Elizabeth. As the requirement was for durable, easy-to-clean but aesthetically pleasing flooring in all storage areas at Forest Hill Military Base, Matrix Architects specified products from Sika’s world-renowned Sikafloor range. Industrial flooring specialist, Krochem, was the appointed contractor for the project. The floor areas were primed with 45 ready-to-mix units of Sikafloor-161, a two-part, low viscosity epoxy resin. Solvent-free with good penetration, it provides excellent bond strength and short waiting times, and may also be used as a binder for leveling mortars and mortar screeds. Preparation started with a scraper coat, over the primer coat, to fill any voids and prevent pin holes. It was then over coated with a 2mm Sikafloor-263SL top coat (165 kits) – a multi-purpose epoxy resin binder suitable for concrete or cement screeds with normal to medium-heavy wear. As a self-smoothening and broadcast system, it is highly fillable, liquid proof and provides good chemical and mechanical resistance. After the floors were coated the construction joints are sealed with Sikaflex-11 FC+, a one-part, elastic joint sealant and multi-purpose adhesive, based on polyurethane. Solvent-free, odourless and providing bubble-free curing, Sikaflex-11 FC+ is suitable for indoor and outdoor applications and provides excellent mechanical resistance.

The SA National Defense Force can feel secure in the knowledge that its fully-functioning Forest Hill Military Base has been renovated with highly-durable flooring products that meet stringent international standards.

Sika Corporate Profile

Sika, is a globally active specialty chemicals company with its South African Head Office based in Durban, and branches in all major South African cities. Sika, located in Baar, Switzerland, supplies the building and construction industry, as well as manufacturing industries (automotive, bus, truck, rail, solar and wind power plants, facades). Sika is a leader in processing materials used in sealing, bonding, damping, reinforcing and protecting load-bearing structures. Sika’s product lines feature high-quality concrete admixtures, specialty mortars, sealants and adhesives, damping and reinforcing materials, structural strengthening systems, industrial flooring as well as roofing and waterproofing systems. Worldwide, a local presence in 90 countries and some 17 000 employees link customers directly to Sika and guarantee the success of all partners. Sika generated annual sales of CHF 5.57 billion in 2014 and a net profit of CHF 441 million.

SIKA SOUTH AFRICA T +24 031 792 6500 W www.sika.co.za

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Advertorial: Sika

Sika proudly preserves PE promenade As part of a lengthy repair project, the application of Sika products has spruced up Port Elizabeth’s popular beachfront promenade with a complete refurbishment. When the walling and railings along the Port Elizabeth (PE) promenade were in serious need of repair, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality hired the services of Africoast Engineers to design an effective solution for the deteriorating infrastructure. Sika’s PE consultant, John Zehmke, recommended seven world-renowned Sika products that fitted the bill. When casting of new concrete walling was proposed for the more deteriorated sections of the promenade, Techni Civils was subcontracted. Being in such close proximity to the sea meant that corrosion protection of the promenade was of paramount importance. For this aspect of the project, Sika FerroGard-903+ was spray applied onto all concrete surfaces. Based on organic compounds, Sika FerroGard-903+ is a ready-to-apply corrosion inhibitor that penetrates the concrete and forms a protective monomolecular layer on both the cathodic and anodic zones of the reinforcing steel. It does not change the appearance, nor does it alter the water vapour diffusion properties of the concrete structure, and can be applied where other repair or prevention

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options are not viable. Sika FerroGard-903+ is an economical, renewable corrosion inhibitor that can increase the service and maintenance life cycles of concrete by up to 15 years. Two products used from Sika’s Concrete Repair and Protection range were SikaTop Armatec-110 EpoCem, an epoxy resin compensated coating material with corrosion inhibitor, and Sika MonoTop-612, a cementitious, polymer-modified high strength repair mortar containing silica fume and synthetic fibre reinforcement. While SikaTop Armatec-110 EpoCem protects anodic areas and provides excellent adhesion to concrete and steel, Sika MonoTop-612 provides excellent workability characteristics and is ideally suited for application on overhead or vertical surfaces. In this project Sika MonoTop-612 was used as a concrete repair mortar. Both products can be spray applied and provide good resistance to water and chloride penetration. Sikacem-810, a waterproof, reactive synthetic polymer dispersion, was used as a mortar additive where damaged parts of the wall required

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Advertorial: Sika

Awarded the contract for this large refurbishment project, Techni Civils not only faced the challenge of daily high tides, delaying application of some Sika products, but also monthly spring tides when especially high sea levels reached those sections of wall built close to the water’s edge. The balustrading and all joints between concrete panels were sealed with Sikaflex AT-Facade, an internationally-approved one-component, moisture-curing elastic sealant based on silane terminated polymers. It is specifically designed for use on movement and connection joints offering a movement capability of 25% and low stress to the substrate. With low extrusion force and perfect smoothability, Sikaflex AT-Facade provides excellent adhesion to porous or non-porous substrates and is solvent- and silicone free. By providing the highest UV resistance, colour stability and ageing resistance, Sikaflex AT-Facade was the perfect product to meet the high aesthetic standards required for the project. To increase concrete cover to steel on some of the existing concrete, SikaTop Seal-107 ZA was applied 2mm thick. This two-part, polymer modified, waterproof mortar slurry comprises a liquid polymer and a cement-based mix incorporating special admixtures. The entire concrete walling surface was coated with Sikagard-550 W Elastic, a one-component, plasto-elastic, thixotropic coating based on UV-curing

acrylic dispersion. It provides excellent crack-bridging properties, a high diffusion resistance against CO2, water vapour permeability and environmental benefits. Sikagard-550 W Elastic also delivers outstanding resistance against weathering and ageing and has a reduced tendency to dirt pick-up and contamination – important factors for this project. Both SikaTop Seal-107 ZA and Sikagard-550 W Elastic comply with the requirements of EN 1504-2 and are suitable for protection against ingress, for moisture control and for increasing the resistivity. Standing approximately halfway along the promenade at Humewood Beach is the Promenade Dome or, as is commonly known, The Tin Hat for its resemblance to a WW1 soldier’s helmet. This large concrete dome, standing on six columns, formed part of the Sika repair and protection project. It is situated on one of the older sections of the promenade known as the Princess Promenade, which was officially opened by Prince and Princess Arthur in 1923. Meandering for several kilometres along the beachfront, the Port Elizabeth Promenade performs a significant role in the city’s tourism industry, and it was therefore imperative that the most reliable products be used to give the structure long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing protection against the harsh coastal environment.

SIKA SOUTH AFRICA W www.sika.co.za

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Advertorial: Marley Pipe Systems

Leading the future in sustainable pipe solutions In today’s price-conscious and value-centred society, the use of plastic plumbing products has grown substantially for use in a wide variety of applications because of their inherent cost-efficiency, ease of installation and outstanding performance. For more than half a century, the Marley brand has represented the leading edge of superior quality and value in the manufacture and distribution of HDPE and PVC pipes and fittings, as well as accessories for the plumbing and building trade. As a result of continuous innovation, research and development, Marley’s products have become recognised by consumers and contractors alike as the preferred choice for sustainable, efficient and durable pipe solutions in homes and buildings.

specifications, and in some cases exceeds these requirements. As an example, the Marley Pipe Systems testing frequencies are higher than those set out in the SABS mark scheme documentations, allowing Marley Pipe Systems to pick up non-conformities faster, and effect corrective action promptly and efficiently. This ensures that we constantly know the status of our products’ quality and the effectiveness of the production process.

An Aliaxis company

As a proud supporter of SAPPMA and SAVA initiatives, and an advocate of quality plastic pipe production in South Africa, Marley has always been ahead of the curve in adopting innovative manufacturing methods that meet both customer requirements and international standards. Under the guidance of Aliaxis, Marley Pipe Systems fully adapted to a ‘lead-free environment’ as far back as 2008*. And to this day, we’re proud to say that our manufacturing operations continue to lead the way in responsible production with heavy metal free products. In this way, we are constantly living out our commitment of ‘bringing tomorrow to life’ by developing environmentally friendly, safer, socially responsible pipe solutions. *Disclaimer – Products manufactured by Marley are guaranteed to be heavy metal free. However, Marley cannot guarantee that product buy-outs from alternative manufacturing sites/suppliers are heavy metal free.

As an Aliaxis company, Marley is dedicated to contributing to the future of South Africa, as well as on a global level, to manufacture products that are environmentally-friendly and that are conducive to preserving our natural resources. Add to this a commitment to providing only the best in technical support, expertise, integrity and service delivery, and you’ve got a true value partner for quality pipe solutions.

Quality without compromise

Marley’s no-compromise mandate on quality is enforced by an ongoing commitment to total quality management, guaranteeing that all products and services meet the highest requirements. Implementing the ISO9001:2008 quality management system means that all processes are kept in check to consistently deliver quality pipe products and superior services as a whole package. In addition to this, Marley abides by the set SANS

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Proudly heavy metal free

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Advertorial: Marley Pipe Systems

Products built on strength, reliability and quality

Marley’s range of plumbing products and accessories are widely available to the public through builders’ and plumbers’ merchants countrywide, and major commercial and construction projects have benefitted from our fit for purpose solutions and comprehensive service support. uPVC drainage systems: Certified systems for complete above and below ground sanitation and drainage systems. Gutter systems: VYNADEEP® and Streamline DoubleFlo® gutter systems combine technical performance, aesthetics, ease of installation and low maintenance. Hot and cold water systems: Tried and tested solutions that are affordable and easy to use in both residential and commercial applications. MEGAFLEX garden hoses: For a quality, flexible hose that will meet your needs for the most demanding of applications – look for the hose with the stripe. Other products in our range include Marley Endura grease traps, compression fittings and saddles, waste traps, HDPE piping solutions, and more.

Marley’s trusted polymer systems for pressure control

If pressure control valves are faulty, the result is costly water damage. Constant dripping, whistling sounds or sudden changes in water pressure are all signs that a pressure control valve needs to be replaced. Before small leaks becomes a big problem, look to the leader in domestic pressure regulation.

Latco pressure regulating valves

Latco presents a reliable generation of pressure regulating valves and pressure control valves for hot and cold water systems that saves you time and money, offering maximum value at unbeatable prices. The Latco range of pressure regulating control and relief valves has become the new standard in the market as pressure demands increase. The Latco Standard pressure control valve and combined expansion relief valve/vacuum breaker has proven time and time again its simplicity of design and reliable operation. Manufactured from a tough, corrosionresistant Acetal copolymer, Latco Standard has been in use for over 35 years on a substantial number of dwellings without change to its principal design. The Latco Neptune valve is made from Acetal, a tried and tested material with decades of proven effectiveness in the control of potable water. Being a plastic, there is no electrolytic action with the water and no scale build up. The range of pressure regulating valves comprises 100kPa, 200kPa, 400kPa and 600kPa models. An added benefit for South Africans is that the Latco Neptune valves have no scrap value, unlike their heavy brass equivalents. As a result, there is less pilferage from merchants and building sites.

Quality guaranteed

SABS specifications require a flow rate of 40 litres per minute at 200kPa pressure. The design of the Latco

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Neptune range easily complies with and exceeds this requirement. In addition, because the Latco Neptune uses a separate relief valve, this saves the need for one of the two vacuum breakers that must be installed with each geyser installation. The Latco Neptune range of valves are SABS markbearing products, manufactured under Marley Pipe Systems’ ISO9001 rated quality management system. Each valve is individually tested before being put into

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Advertorial: Marley Pipe Systems

stock, and consequently carries a two-year guarantee from date of manufacture. However, as our service technicians will conﬁrm, some of our original valves made in the ’60s and ’70s are still going strong after all these years.

Features and beneﬁts • • • • • • • • • • •

Available as BSP or CC connections Easy installation Available countrywide Proudly manufactured in South Africa No theft risk – no copper parts Corrosion-free No scale build up Proven track record Compatible with all SANS 151 compliant hot water cylinders UV stabilised Most affordable pressure regulating valve on the market

Rainwater solutions for sustainable development

Manufactured from superior, heavy metal free uPVC materials that are resistant to corrosion and impact, Marley VYNADEEP® and Streamline Double-Flo® gutters and downpipes combine facets of functional efficiency and pleasing aesthetics. Marley gutter systems are extremely flexible, and can be easily connected to a water tank to provide homes with a reliable water supply. In addition, specifiers, engineers, contractors and property owners alike can rest assured knowing that the Marley gutter systems conform to the relevant South African National Standard and bear the SABS mark. Marley’s commitment to quality and safety has all extrusions and components manufactured in an ISO9001 accredited facility.

Rainwater harvesting made simple with Marley and VYNADEEP®

Rainwater harvesting is the key to unlocking a naturally pure, clean and sustainable source of water. Water is a fundamental resource of life – one that we often take for granted. South Africa is expected to experience sever water shortages by 2025, which is a lot sooner than we think. What most people don’t know is that we have a free

source of water right in front of us (or rather above us). Rainwater harvesting is fast becoming a sustainable solution to South Africa’s water problem with many beneﬁts for the end user. What’s more, you don’t need to spend a fortune to set up a rainwater harvesting system. Marley’s VYNADEEP® range of half round gutters and round downpipes offers economical installation, low maintenance requirements and proven performance, and can be easily connected to a water storage tank to provide your home with a reliable water supply. Backed by a 10 year guarantee, Marley VYNADEEP® products are manufactured using high-quality materials that are heavy metal free, ensuring longterm performance and environmental beneﬁts.

Streamline Double-Flo®

The Marley Streamline Double-Flo® System offers a clean, uncluttered, square profiled gutter line with concealed brackets featuring an elastomer sealing system with PVC brackets. Time qualified features, such as an elastomeric gutter sealing system, allow watertight joints to be made quickly, and generously radiussed outlets and gutter angles ensure that optimum flow has been retained. Other benefits of the system include ease of handling and installation, high-impact resistance that reduces site breakages, heavy metal free, excellent flow rates, and an attractive finish that will not discolour. It also features universal offset, shoe and gutter outlets, and carries a 10-year guarantee.

Fascia and barge boards

Marley fascia and barge boards are made from superior formulated PVC-U foam utilising the latest technology. The molecular structure of the board’s core makes it extremely lightweight yet surprisingly tough, while the outer skin of the board provides rigidity, durability and a high-quality maintenance-free finish. Not only do these boards provide a functional finish but they also add visual impact to the building. The Marley PVC foam fascia and barge board complete system complements the Marley gutter system and is manufactured according to SANS 11 unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (PVC-U) components for external rainwater systems. Superior in many ways to traditional materials such as wood and fibre cement, Marley’s fascia and barge boards offer many advantages.

MARLEY PIPE SYSTEMS T +27 011 739 8600 F +27 011 739 8680 W www.marleypipesystems.co.za

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2016/01/14 12:35 PM

Editorial: Service Delivery

Where practicality meets service delivery One of the enduring problems facing South Africa is service delivery. Within this broad category, the most emotive and controversial discussions usually surround the delivery of houses in inaccessible rural areas. Add the challenges of communications that must be driven through traditional community structures and the building of basic housing becomes an occupation that is clearly not for the faint-hearted. While recent achievements in the field of developing rural homes prove that the issues can be tackled and conquered, the heart of achieving success lies in a coordinated supply hierarchy and the important issues of empowering local contractors and creating job opportunities. Often it is what is left behind for villagers in the way of embedded skills and infrastructure that is regarded as one of the most vital components of winning a tender for housing development. As recent history reveals, by combing these demands through a Public Private Partnership that is effective and supportive, the intricacies of building can be mastered to the benefit of all parties, even in the most difficult and remote terrains where rural poverty is endemic. Proving the point successfully is the Eastern Province, rated by the Human Sciences Research Council as the poorest province in South Africa. As a region in

Diale Mokgojwa, Senior Manager, Enterprise Development at Standard Bank

Rian Swart (Massbuild), Nico Moloto (Standard Bank), Bonolo Modise (Standard Bank), Gladys Nchoma (new home owner), Billy Oosthuizen (Standard Bank), Pieter de Villiers (Tusk).

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Editorial: Service Delivery

which 52% of the population live in poverty, and 39% are located in rural areas, it has all the characteristics that combine to make housing a thorny issue. However, with the advent of effective developmental partnerships, results are being delivered. At the heart of the success stories are interventions by provincial government, Standard Bank, Tusk Construction Support Services and Builders. Explains Diale Mokgojwa, senior manager: Enterprise Development at Standard Bank: ‘The challenges facing delivery of housing in rural areas begins with the procurement stage. Quite rightly on a provincial level, these processes tend to concentrate on development of people through the allocation of building tenders to small construction business owners. As these businesses gain experience and expertise, they progress up the supply chain hierarchy with ratings by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) used to provide guidance of their suitability for certain projects. The higher their CIDB rating, the higher the value of construction opportunities awarded to them by government.’ Reality dictates that the desire for work and reward results in intense completion. It is at this stage that aspirant contractors go wrong. ‘Typically, small contractors responding to tenders in the Eastern Cape have erred by not understanding that the costs of materials can escalate dramatically when logistics are difficult,’ says Pieter de Villiers, director: Corporate Services at Tusk Construction Support Services.

Common mistakes de Villiers highlights include:

Reducing costs to unrealistic levels to win business Proper costing, taking account of terrain, availability of labour, housing on site and other necessities are not accounted for. ‘It is common for areas earmarked for supply deliveries to be unreachable by heavy vehicles. Loads then have to be dropped at agreed sites and the materials moved by eight-ton vehicles, or even wheelbarrows in extreme cases, to remote sites. Costs therefore increase dramatically,’ he points out. Not taking account of the nature of the development It is obviously cheaper to build on single large sites earmarked for a few dozen houses, than to build individual houses that can be several hundred metres or even a few kilometres apart. ‘Costs escalate when a contractor cannot adopt an assembly line approach to building by calling on various skills as they are required to complete various stages of a project. Budgets quickly become unsustainable when too many workers with various skills are on site with little to do.’ Underestimating project material quantities This is usually responsible for most of the quality problems that arise with low-cost housing. ‘As a project progresses and it becomes obvious to the contractor that his profit margins are being whittled away because quantities have been misstated, he often compensates by cutting corners to try and

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reduce costs. On site wastage and theft of materials left unattended on site also increases. Quality and buildings standards suffer.’ Lacking business skills and proper financial disciplines Often entrepreneurs lack the fundamental skills to allocate costs, develop proper payment structures for workers, and they are prone to using business accounts and progress payments as personal income. The result is projects running awry, cost overruns, financial shortfalls and issues with tax authorities. ‘What has to be taken into account when developing a project is that local custom always plays a major part in the process. The traditional approach to social structures and communication must be adhered to in rural areas. These protocols demand that chiefs or headmen are included in the project and allocate the land on which development can take place,’ de Villiers adds. Although the in-built difficulties and geographical complications are daunting, it has been proved in the Eastern Cape that the inherent risks involved can be brought under control so that quality projects can be delivered. Although the onus for appointing turnkey contractors still rests with provincial government that approve tenders, bringing on additional support from the private sector adds value and enables skills transfer to take place. In the case of some projects that are underway in the Eastern Cape, this behind the scenes support and assistance has come from Standard Bank, Tusk Construction Support Services and Builders who work together to ensure contractors are successful. The business chain begins with Tusk, which extends its training and supervision service to small builders who have managed to climb onto the tender ladder, but lack the resources and formal training to simply go it alone. As experienced construction project managers, Tusk assesses the abilities of the contractor concerned, the value and complexity of the proposed job, and then refer the ‘approved’ contractor to Standard Bank.

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Editorial: Service Delivery

The bank then provides the finance that enables the entire team to go forward and bid for projects. Evaluation of projects and assisting with costings is undertaken by experienced engineers and Builders who use the services of professional quantity surveyors to specify the types of material needed and the realistic quantities needed. Closing the loop is Builders, which through its retail outlets – Builders Warehouse and Builders Trade Depot – provides lines of credit for the builder to source the materials they need to get the job done. Logistics assistance is offered with materials being delivered from local yards. The final element in the end-to-end support system is the Tusk construction support manager who attends site meetings, facilitates work with the contractor and acts as an informal quality manager. Everyone benefits from the process – especially the contractors who literally earn while they learn, gathering the skills they need to make their businesses self-sufficient. With these elements in place, much of the risks associated with projects are alleviated as the contractor is assisted with bringing variances in a tender allocation to the attention of authorities before the project even gets underway. These variances are then accounted for by the project value being amended and the viability of the project is ensured. Most commonly variances are requested for: • The grading of access roads so that demarcated rural sites can be more easily reached • Costs incurred by double handling of materials • Costs associated with building on difficult terrain, and • Electrical installations. ‘Once the preliminary issues have been resolved

and work begins on site, a professional from Tusk acts in a dual role as project manager and adviser to the construction company involved. Working together, issues and challenges are resolved as they occur. The emphasis is on achieving all project requirements within stipulated milestones,’ de Villiers explains. The additional work done, such as the construction of a dirt road and building of site offices, adds quality of life to the communities in remote locations. Roads reduce the isolation of communities and vastly improve locals’ abilities to move around the area. Site offices are left in-situ and take on new lives as community centres, clinics or assume other functions chosen by the inhabitants. ‘Risk management is one of the most significant challenges facing any financial institution when extending finance to SMEs operating in the construction sector. Cognisance must be taken of the experience of the contractor, their assets, personal investment and the complexities of the task ahead. A contract, although it provides some certainty, cannot on its own provide assurances that a contractor has the ability to complete a project within the set terms of reference,’ Mokgojwa concludes. What is required is an approach that allows experts in construction to evaluate the suitability of a candidate, provide mentoring and advice as the project is undertaken, and then follow it through to its conclusion to vastly reduce the risk involved. The ultimate beneficiaries are the contractors, the communities and the people who learn new marketable skills as they take up previously unavailable employment opportunities. Best of all, a new base of skilled contractors is developed and the nation takes another step forward.

About Standard Bank South Africa Standard Bank South Africa is the largest operating entity of Standard Bank Group, Africa’s largest bank by assets. Standard Bank Group had total assets of R1 694 billion (about USD162 billion) at 31 December 2013, while its market capitalisation was R209.4 billion (about USD20 billion). In South Africa, Standard Bank provides the full spectrum of financial services. It’s Corporate and Investment Banking division serves a wide range of requirements for banking, finance, trading, investment, risk management and advisory services. Corporate and Investment Banking division delivers this comprehensive range of products and services relating to investment banking, global markets, and global transactional products and services. Standard Bank’s corporate and investment banking expertise is focused on industry sectors that are most relevant to emerging markets. It has strong offerings in mining and metals; oil, gas and renewables; power and infrastructure; agribusiness; telecommunications and media; and financial institutions. Standard Bank’s personal and business banking unit offers banking and other financial services to individuals and small-to-medium enterprises. Standard Bank has more than 720 branches and over 7 100 ATMs in South Africa. Independent surveys of customer satisfaction consistently place Standard Bank at or near the top of their rankings. Standard Bank’s personal and business banking products include mortgage lending, instalment sale and finance leases, card products, transaction and lending products, and bancassurance.

STANDARD BANK W www.standardbank.co.za

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2016/01/13 11:25 AM

Advertorial: SAWPA

Understanding wood preservation BRUCE BREEDT, executive director of the South African Wood Preservers Association, discusses the basics of wood preservation. There are two types of wood preservation, primary (industrial) and secondary (DIY). Primary wood preservation involves a process where wood is impregnated with an industrial chemical wood preservative (biocide) to increase its durability and resistance to biological attack (fungi, wood borers and termites). High-pressure processes, involving waterborne chemicals and Creosote are predominantly used. Other approved methods of primary wood preservation are hot and cold open tank, using Creosote, diffusion, using Borates and low-pressure or double-vacuum processes using light organic solvent preservatives (LOSP), such as TBTN-P or Azole Permethrin. Visit http://youtu.be/aCF0kYD6ruY for an animation of the pressure process used. Primary wood preservation is a pre-treatment were the timber is impregnated with a wood preservative prior to end-use application, and therefore acts as a preventative measure. It is not supplemental or remedial (after the fact). Chemical retention, penetration and processes used are prescribed in SANS standards and mandatory compliance is regulated through regulations and compulsory specifications. Third party product certification is thus required. Secondary wood preservation includes supplemental or remedial preservatives that contain biocides as active ingredients, which can also be included in protective wood finishes that has wood sealers as the carrier. Supplemental or remedial preservatives are mainly applied by hand, for example, by brush, painted or sprayed on in a DIY setting, and are mainly corrective to stop further attack. It can also be preventative by treating exposed ends of pre-treated timber that has been

modified or cut. Bandages, pastes and rods (sticks) with diffusible borate as the active ingredient also fall under the remedial preservatives. Supplemental or remedial preservatives normally require an on-going maintenance programme to remain effective. Protective wood finishes come in the form of sealers and varnishes, contain no biocides and are also applied by brush, paint, and spray in a DIY setting. These types of wood finishes protect against weathering factors, such as water ingress, temperature changes and UV rays, but not against fungal and insect attack.

Why preserve timber?

The natural durability of our commercially grown and used plantation species like Pinus and Eucalyptus is low, rendering it susceptible to insect and fungal attack; therefore it is imperative to preserve the timber. Timber preservation also enhances durability and confidence in using timber and extends the life of timber, as well as providing the added benefit of increasing the carbon sink. Preservation of timber and the use of preservative treated timber are regulated by building regulations, such as regulation A13, as well as in the NHBRC manual, which specifies the use of preservativetreated timber when used in permanent structures in specific areas of South Africa. Compulsory specifications for timber preservations can be found in the VC 9092 (NRCS) specification which regulates the sale of preservative treated timber. Both these regulations refer to SANS10005, The preservative treatment of timber, which in turn refers to the relevant product standards are mentioned below.

Hazard Class

Application and risk

Preservative Type

Retention kg/m3

Dry indoors, above ground – Low

CCA Creosote

6 80

Outside above ground – Moderate

CCA Creosote

8 80

In ground contact – High

CCA Creosote

12 100

Fresh water & heavy wet soil – High

CCA Creosote

16 130

Marine (sea) water

CCA & Creosote

24 + 200

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Advertorial: SAWPA

H CLASSES

PRESERVATIVE TYPES

TYPICAL END-USE APPLICATIONS

PROTECTION

RISK FACTOR

H2 – Dry interior above ground

• Class W – CCA, CuAz, ACQ and Boron • Class O – TBTN-P and ZP

Roof trusses and frame wall construction, interior doors and joinery

Insect attack

Low Risk

H3 – Exterior above ground

• Class W – CCA, CuAz & ACQ • Class C – Creosote & Coal tar

Decking, cladding, outdoor furniture, and exposed structural, fencing and landscaping timber products not in direct ground contact

Fungal attack and insects

Moderate risk

H4 – Exterior in-ground

• CCA, CuAz & ACQ • Creosote & Coal tar

Normal in ground timber/poles used structures, fencing, landscaping and garden features, etc

Fungal decay and insect attack

High Risk

H5 – Fresh water & heavy wet soil contact

• CCA, CuAz & ACQ • Creosote and Coal tar

Used in contact with fresh water and heavy wet soils, e.g. structures in fresh water, such as jetties, walkways, piling, etc

Fungal decay and insect attack

High Risk

Dual treatment of firstly CCA and then Creosote

Used in direct contact with sea water, e.g. jetties, quays, marine walkways, retaining walls and barriers

Fungal decay and marine borers

High Risk

H6 – Marine

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Advertorial: SAWPA

Choosing the correctly treated timber

The following SANS standards apply to treated timber: • SANS 457 parts 1 and 2 – wooden poles, droppers and guardrail posts for building, fencing and agricultural purposes • SANS 753 and 754 – wooden poles for transmission and telephone lines • SANS 1288 – All other preservative treated timber, for example sawn structural and flooring These standards specify a Hazard Class system (H Classes), which categorises treated timber into different end-use applications based on the following: • Different exposure conditions • Potential risk of biological attack • Preservative retentions/chemical loading

Product use information

Be sure to choose the correct H class timber for your intended application and apply remedial preservative to all cross-cut and exposed areas (except when in contact with the ground, fresh water or marine applications). Apply a suitable brush, paint, or spray-on wood sealer when the natural look of the timber is desired. Do not plant poles inside an encapsulated concrete base. Instead, use a ‘collar’ or compacted stone and soil, with or without a solid (cured) concrete base.

How to plant a pole

The detail in this diagram assists proper drainage of any moisture that may be absorbed by a wooden pole. A structural engineer must be consulted for detailed structural requirements.

Safety precautions and warnings

When machining (sanding and sawing) CCA treated wood, be sure to wear a dust mask. It is also important to wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying particles. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid prolonged inhalation of sawdust from CCA treated wood and wear gloves when working with freshly treated wood. Always wash work clothes separately. Do not make baby toys or furniture from CCA treated wood that may be chewed on by infants, or make any food utensils from CCA treated wood. Do not use CCA treated wood for firewood, to prepare any foods, and do not store food in direct contact with CCA treated wood containers. Do not make containers for storing drinking water from CCA treated wood. CCA treated wood should also not be used in beehives where it may come into contact with the honey, nor should treated wood shavings or sawdust be used for animal litter or where it can become a component of animal feed.

Disposal

While treated timber waste is not regarded as hazardous waste material, treated wood off-cuts and waste should not be allowed to accumulate but should be disposed of at a registered disposal or landfill site. It is important not to burn treated wood off-cuts and waste or use it for firewood for food preparation as this will allow the release of chemicals, which are tightly bound to the wood, into the smoke. The ashes may also contain residual chemicals. The primary wood preservation industry currently boasts 116 certified treatment plants in South Africa, consisting predominantly of CCA treatment plants and Creosote plants. In 2013, the total estimated preservative treated timber volume treated in South Africa was 1 065 580m3.

For more information on wood preservation in South Africa, please contact SAWPA

SOUTH AFRICAN WOOD PRESERVERS ASSOCIATION T +27 011 974 1061 E sawpa@global.co.za W www.sawpa.co.za

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2016/01/13 11:26 AM

Project: Energy Efficient Clay Brick

Building a sustainable future with energy efficient clay bricks The Energy Efficient Clay Brick project (EECB), implemented by Swisscontact and funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), encompasses a sectorial approach to addressing energy efficiency. Carbon dioxide (CO2) has long been identified as one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gases across the globe. South Africa is directly responsible for more than 40% of Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greenhouse gas emissions, making it the largest emitter on the continent and the 14th highest in the world.

Following worldwide discussions and concerns about the level of CO2 in the atmosphere, in 2013 the South African cabinet committed to reduce CO2 emissions by 34% by 2020 and by 45% by 2025 on condition that the requisite technological and financial support is provided.

Source: Carbon Dioxide Information Analysis Center

Source: Us Energy Information Administration

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Project: Energy Efficient Clay Brick

According to the GREENHOUSE GAS INVENTORY FOR SOUTH AFRICA 2000-2010, the manufacturing sector is the second largest emitter, after the energy production sector, of CO2 in South Africa. Contributing factors include the type of fuel used, the amount of energy consumed, and the type of technology utilised in production processes. The Energy Efficient Clay Brick project (EECB) came to fruition after the successful transfer of the Vertical Shaft Brick Kiln (VSBK), an energy efficient technology that reduces the amount of firing energy required, and therefore CO2 emissions. Through the realisation that there was still so much more that could be done, the project rationale shifted to a broader energy efficiency focus. The EECB project, implemented by Swisscontact and funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), encompasses a sectorial approach to addressing energy efficiency that has been applied to the clay brick sector because of the energy saving potentials and substantial interest from the sector to become more energy efficient and environmentally conscious. The project is passionately led by John Volsteedt and supported by the EECB project team. Volsteedt began his career in the clay brick sector 31 years ago and worked at some of South Africa’s most successful clay brick companies before joining the EECB. To ensure its success, the project actively engages with stakeholders within the sector to create a thriving industry while capacitating clay brick makers and sector specific service providers with more energy efficient production practices. By the end of this project phase (October 2017), EECB expects energy efficient practices – key to sustainable clay brick production in South Africa – to have effectively been adopted by a significant number of brick makers. Without the strong relationship established between the EECB and the Clay Brick Association, the project would not have seen these impressive successes. The Clay Brick Association is the industry body that represents 85% of all clay brick makers in South Africa. It acts as an intermediary between the clay brick makers, the private sector, government, and other professional bodies representing the housing, building and construction sectors. Because of the Clay Brick Association’s strong positioning for developing and growing competitive awareness, and knowledge and support of clay masonry on behalf of its members, its involvement and partnership with the EECB has been instrumental in the project’s success. EECB’s most noteworthy achievements to date include: • The successful transfer of the VSBK technology (phase 1 of the project) to South African clay brick makers has enabled brick makers to reduce their

energy consumption. With this technology, firing energy is reduced by 50%. • At the time of publication, 24 VSBK shafts (by four clay brick makers) are being rolled out. Upon completion, the EECB will have contributed a total reduction of 10 000tCO2 per year since its inception in 2013. • A reduction of energy input in clay brick production and in the industry carbon tax benchmark. • Multiple brick makers have participated in energy audits to identify areas of potential saving and, additionally, EECB has succeeded in establishing Best Practices Guidelines for the clay brick sector that ensure brick makers have energy efficiency strategies in place. • To ensure an environment that is conducive and favourable, EECB has also succeeded in entering into discussions with relevant government institutions around sustainable environment management plans and carbon tax. As in most South African sectors, there is potential for energy savings within the clay brick sector and great strides are being taken to realise this by the numerous actors within the sector. To keep the momentum going, the project is working to disseminate the Energy Efficiency Financial Guidelines to point brick makers seeking finance for energy efficiency projects on their plants in the right direction and to encourage more brick makers to participate in energy management courses. The EECB is confident that even after its completion, the sector will continue to grow even more energy efficient and make significant contributions towards South Africa’s CO2 reduction targets.

SWISSCONTACT/SWISS FOUNDATION FOR TECHNICAL COOPERATION T +27 012 346 5102 E za.info@swisscontact.org

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Product Catalogue: Palram Industries South Africa

PALSUN® – Flat Solid Polycarbonate Sheet

Main Benefits • High impact resistance - virtually unbreakable • High clarity and light transmission, Weather and UV resistant • Good acoustical insulation Typical Applications • Architecture: Transparent acoustic barriers, Sport venues, Skylights, Shopping centers, Covered walkways • Construction: Sun rooms and conservatories, Pergolas and covered patios • Sign & Display: Signs, public sign guards, Displays, P.O.P stands, Illuminated signs, light fixtures

SUNLITE® – Flat Multiwall Polycarbonate Sheet Main Benefits • High thermal insulation • High light transmission, Weather and UV resistant • High fire ratings Typical Applications • Architectural roofing and glazing, Decorative partitions • Skylights and sidelights, Illuminated signage and displays • Greenhouse and garden center roofing

PALOPAQUE™ – Flat Opaque PVC Sheet Main Benefits • Excellent chemical resistance • High impact strength • High fire rating: self-extinguishing • High electrical and thermal insulation, Non-toxic • Available as a complete cladding system • PALOPAQUE HYG: Active hygiene • PALOPAQUE SF: Low static charge Typical Applications • Wall cladding • Advertising and signage • Applications in chemical plants • Sterile surfaces

PALGARD™ – Flat Solid Abrasion Resistant Polycarbonate Sheet

Main Benefits • High abrasion resistance on one or both sides - Highly resistant to vandalism • Impact Resistant - virtually unbreakable • High chemical resistance • Weather and UV resistant, Up to 90% light transmission • Excellent acoustical Insulation Typical Applications • Safety and security glazing, Anti-vandal glazing • Anti-graffiti protection for displays • Prison windows • Sound barriers, Bus stops and telephone booths

PALSHIELD™ – Bullet Resistant Panel

Main Benefits • Shatter proof - does not spall • Abrasion resistant surface • Complies with various ballistic standards Typical Applications • Security glazing in banks and government facilities • Gas stations and convenience stores • Prisons and detention centers

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Product Catalogue: Palram Industries South Africa

SUNPAL® – Multiwall Polycarbonate Standing-Seam Architectural System Main Benefits • Withstands very high loads • Leak proof • High thermal insulation - Double sided UV protection • Ideal for curved designs • Available with SolarSmart™ cool light colours Typical Applications • Architectural roofing and glazing • Commercial and retail roofing • Sport facilities - translucent roofing • Covered walkways, awnings and entrances • Swimming pool covers

SUNGLAZE™ – Solid Polycarbonate Standing-Seam Architectural System Main Benefits • Glass-like clear appearance • Standing seam leak-proof performance • Caulking and silicone free • Withstands high loads • Minimal maintenance Typical Applications • Architectural projects • Commercial and retail • Sports venues roofing • Covered walkways • Service stations

PALCLAD™ Pro – Hygienic PVC Wall Cladding System

Main Benefits • Complete wall cladding solutions • Creates high sanitation environment • Withstands repeated cleaning cycles • High impact strength • High fire rating • High electrical and thermal insulation • Non toxic • PALCLAD Pro HYG: Active hygiene Typical Applications • Public Facilities: schools, rest rooms, airports, public transportation facilities • Food Industry: food plants, food preparation areas, sorting halls, storage/refrigeration rooms • Healthcare: sterile/clean rooms, hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical plants • Agriculture: livestock and dairies, egg sorting halls, storage rooms, refrigeration facilities

HYG Technology – Active Antimicrobial Action for PVC Products Main Benefits • Active antimicrobial action: Kills microbes • Potentially available in all Palram PVC products • Long lasting antimicrobial effect • Biocidal capabilities proven by independent tests • Added to physical benefits of rigid PVC • Formable: HYG properties are maintained after processing Typical Applications • Chemical process industries • Sterile surfaces in laboratories • Clinics and hospitals • Food industry

PALRAM INDUSTRIES SOUTH AFRICA T +27 011 377 7771 / 08691 725 726 C +27 078 563 4239 E pieter.smal@palram.com W www.palram.co.za

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2016/01/14 12:39 PM

Editorial: Green Workspace

How green is your workspace? The move towards going green in the commercial property sector is gaining momentum. Since 2009, the number of green-building projects certified by the Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) has increased by 121%, with aspects such as energy, water, waste management, transport, emissions and indoor-environment quality all taken into account. Banks, listed property funds, developers and certain government departments seem to be leading the charge. In 2009, Nedbank was the first with the launch of its Sandton head office extension, followed by FNB, ABSA and Standard Bank. Growthpoint and Redefine have both stated that all their new buildings will conform to GBCSA’s minimum Green Star SA rating, with Attacq and Tower also striving to differentiate themselves in terms of green. Rabie has had many of its Century City buildings certified green, and key government departments are following suit, including the departments of Environmental Affairs & Public Works, the Western Cape Government, the City of Cape Town, and Ethekweni Municipality. Anthony Manas, chief executive for Cube Workspace, a premium advertising agency-styled serviced office space for business and entrepreneurs in South Africa, is enthusiastically pro-green. ‘In May this year we launched our fourth serviced office space building in two years,’ he says, referring to what was previously a private home that he renovated into a stunning R40-million facility in Bryanston. ‘Each property is designed and furnished with some practical, easy-to-apply green thinking, with roofs solar panelled, insulation in the concrete, LED lighting throughout, gas cooking in the communal café dining space, recycled materials for the tables, chairs, desks and carpets, and chemical-free paint on the walls.’

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Manas points out that some green measures are easy and quick to implement at both design and building stages. Photovoltaic panels can be used for solar power, LED lights and light-switch timers can be installed, insulation can be incorporated into floor slabs and roofs, double-glazing can be used for windows, and recycled material should be considered for furniture and finishes such as carpets. He adds that a business’s choice of suppliers can aid an organisation in becoming more environmentally friendly. Cube Workspace recently appointed a bottle-recycling company to provide branded bottled water throughout their properties. ‘The beauty of a supplier such as Bottleworx is that it manufactures PET, which is inert and BPA-free, but the upcycled product is used to build classrooms, clinics and houses in previously disadvantaged communities,’ Manas explains. With no fewer than 100 initiatives designed by the GBCSA to score ‘green’ in its Green Star SA rating tool for new buildings, business in South Africa is waking up the social prerogative and seeing the better investment return that green buildings can hold for their owners. ‘Future-proofing your assets and mitigating the onslaught of increased utility costs through energy, water and waste savings, is an imperative,’ maintains Manfred Braune, GBCSA’s chief technical officer.

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2016/01/13 11:29 AM

Editorial: Green Workspace

In August, the Investment Property Bank (IPD) and the GBCSA released the SOUTH AFRICA ANNUAL GREEN PROPERTY INDICATORS 2014, which indicate that energyefficient buildings held a greater net-income growth and capital value per square metre, with higher occupancy levels, compared to their less energyefficient counterparts. Aside from the investment merits that an environmentally-friendly building offers, Braune says that they can improve the wellbeing of people too. Issues such as recirculated air, dust, mould, poor lighting and the use of materials with toxic chemicals can all contribute to poor health. Manfred points out that the top five measurements to consider in an informal green audit of a building are:

• Your total annual energy consumption (and submeter your larger energy users such as HVAC, lighting and power) • Your total annual water consumption (and submeter your larger water users such as HVAC and irrigation) • Your annual operational waste production (and determine how much of this can be recycled) • Your staff comfort levels through surveys of aspects such as lighting, acoustics and thermal comfort • Your office equipment kW load to see whether some equipment (computers, fridges, copiers) can be replaced with more energy-efficient versions. For more info on green buildings and the GBCSA, visit www.gbcsa.org.za.

About Cube Workspace In March 2013, Anthony Manas, an interior designer with 23 years’ industry experience, founded Cube Workspace. His company provides fully-serviced office space for businesses and entrepreneurs in South Africa. These advertising agency-styled state-of-the-art offices have controlled access, the latest conferencing technology, plush meeting lounges, 24-hour security, undercover parking, an in-house Cube Café restaurant, and on-site catering. There are currently four Cube Workspace branches in South Africa: in Kyalami and Bryanston in Gauteng, and on the Foreshore and in Rondebosch in Cape Town. Cube Workspace offers flexible office space options that range from around 10m2 to 40m2 and can be modified to best suit clients’ specific business needs. For more information, visit http://cubeworkspace.co.za/.

CUBE WORKSPACE T +27 021 140 1500 C +27 071 364 9554 W www.cubeworkspace.co.za

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Project: 130 Strand Street

A fresh new look for a school of brand leadership The De Waterkant area has seen a remarkable redevelopment over the past decade in Cape Town. Fresh design, upmarket developments and a mixture of old and new have lifted the area and turned it into one of the more sought-after neighbourhoods in the city. The area as a whole has benefitted from the upliftment of the architecture and Chiappini Street now forms the gateway to the De Waterkant area. Photography by: Johann Lourens, Johann Lourens Photography EHH Architects was appointed as the architects for the redevelopment of 130 Strand Street, Cape Town, a building originally designed for READERS DIGEST during the sixties. After years of vacancy the new owners found the perfect tenant in Vega, School of Brand Leadership. The existing building had a very monolithic and repetitive design, following the then popular Brutalist architectural style of heavy concrete façades with little detail and limited daylight entry. As the READERS DIGEST distribution centre, its function required large floor plates and very little parking. The design brief was to modernise the existing building from a visual and organisation point of view. This entailed redesigning façades, the introduction of a new parking level to the building so it would suit the new tenant, and the clients requested that the street edges be activated to allow retail spaces on the two main corners. The main office floors were treated as ‘empty shells’, which the interior designers were responsible for. EHH Architects focussed its efforts on certain key areas of the building that created strong focal points that uplifted the building as a whole. These include

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the main entrance, the retail spaces, reception area and roof-top garden. Large areas of the façades remained unchanged, barring a new Marmoran finish and the introduction of sun shading louvers, yet the building has been uplifted completely and presents itself as fresh and new altogether. The concept was to divide the building into multiple focal points, breaking the old monotonous façade. The focal points are the main building entrance and reception, the retail corners and the fire escape on the side street elevation. Vega uses red as their signature colour and this was used to highlight the entrance area at night while keeping the remainder of the building a two tone neutral grey. Strong horizontal lines were introduced to the building. This was achieved in the colour scheme and the introduction of an aluminium clad element on the main façade, and sun shading devices over the existing windows and screens to the new parking garage on the ground floor. A barcoded design was used for all elements, tying various design elements together. Internally, the reception area repeats the tenants branding colour and notion of barcoding and is a

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Project: 130 Strand Street

visually overpowering space emphasising a strong and modern brand. The design of the perforated screen above the main entrance was inspired by the street grid of Cape Town and the use of colour changing LEDs behind the screen have anchored the building in its location making it a highly recognisable point in the city. Both street corners were opened up and a double volume glazed corner was used to create maximum exposure for the retail tenants, at the same time making the building lose some of its bulkiness. The time frame was extremely tight. EHH Architects was approached at the end of June 2014 and the brief was to have the new tenants move in during December 2014. Council approval, service

coordination and redesigning the building all happened simultaneously and required excellent coordination from the project manager, architect and contract manager. Existing services were upgraded where necessary and all issues, such as waterproofing, were assessed and addressed. The roof garden was designed to allow the students to break away from their classrooms, offering them shaded spaces in a green, open air environment to enjoy the beautiful view of the Cape Town harbour. The redevelopment of 130 Strand Street has created a new landmark along one of the major through roads in Cape Town and credit must be given to the developer for strongly believing in the concept and going the extra mile.

EHH ARCHITECTS INC T +27 021 419 7760 E studio@ehharch.com W www.ehharch.com

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Advertorial: Cochrane International

Seeing is not always believing The Cochrane ClearVu Invisible Wall is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only.

With a reputation for innovation and quality spanning three decades, Cochrane International continues to pioneer with segment leading Physical Perimeter Security Barriers that deliver effective security to protect most assets.

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Advertorial: Cochrane International

By any measure, Cochrane’s products define the benchmark in their class. Whether it’s ClearVu’s Invisible Wall, – the world’s only architecturally inspired high security fencing system, Marine Floating Barrier, – the world’s only rough water, high security barrier or Rapid Deployment Barrier that delivers unmatched crowd and riot control, our commitment to constantly developing and refining our systems is evident in every detail,

– a fact borne out by dozens of worldwide patents throughout our extreme product range. Further enhancing these product offerings is a Global Customer Support network, that operates 24/7, 365 days a year, across 6 continents and 8 offices – ensuring that our clients around the globe receive the personal attention that they have come to expect from the Cochrane International team.

ClearVu Invisible Wall is the world’s most advanced Physical Perimeter Security Barrier. Over 30 patents and design registrations reflect ClearVu’s engineering and technology development. ClearVu offers the protection of a solid concrete wall in a near Invisible form. Developed in collaboration with the architectural profession and Defence Agency tested, ClearVu is the worlds only design inspired, recognised high security barrier. With this distinctive, ClearVu’s crisp, unobtrusive finish enhances the appearance of any facility. Besides unparalleled appearance, durability and cost-effectiveness, ClearVu is approved as defence rated 4 type fencing system – complying with the specifications detailed from National Key Points and by Police Advisory Services.

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Advertorial: Cochrane International

COCHRANE INTERNATIONAL (Pty) LTD T +27 (0) 11 394 1788 W www.cochrane.co and www.clearvu.com

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Project: House in Blair Atholl

Design with a difference House in Blair Atholl is one of the most recently completed projects by highly-acclaimed Nico van der Meulen Architects. This luxurious contemporary farmhouse is situated within a secluded golf estate located between Pretoria and Johannesburg in South Africa. Photographs by: David Ross and Barend Roberts Designed by Werner van der Meulen from Nico van der Meulen Architects, this double-storey, nearly 750mÂ˛ home is surrounded by serenity and tranquillity. Free from high boundary walls and electric fencing, this is a design with a difference. With unrestricted views of the countryside, the expansiveness of this home is certain to catch your attention as you approach the house. The brief called for a contemporary, practical home that makes provision for outdoor living with an

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emphasis on entertaining. Due to the form-followfunction approach of the design, this modern family home is spacious and uncluttered from unnecessary decorative elements. The design concept is undoubtedly a strong one that speaks for itself and, while Werner van der Meulen was restricted by the estate rules that included making use of pitched roofs and specific natural materials, it was these very parameters that led to the concept of a contemporary farmhouse. The floating doublepitched slate roof also played a huge role in the

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Project: House in Blair Atholl

development of the concept and reinforces the contemporary nature of the design. Orientating the house northwards allows for the home to be naturally lit all year round and provides expansive views of the garden from nearly every room. While the overhangs provide protection from the sun during the summer, they also ensure that the sun still penetrates the rooms during the winter months. The double-volume entrance hall is partially surrounded by glass and bordered by two double garages on either side. The symmetry of the solid timber garages highlights the transparency of the house as views of the garden captivate you even before you have entered. Enveloped in natural wood, the garage doors disappear into a timber wall. Once inside you appreciate how effortlessly the open plan spaces flow into each other, with the living room, dining room, kitchen and lanai all in close proximity to each other. The frameless folding doors create an invisible threshold between the inside and the outside, and when completely open, the lanai becomes an extension of the kitchen and family/dining room and vice versa. The spacious lanai accommodates a braai, bar and seating area, making it ideal for entertaining while the swimming pool is integral to the design of the lanai and extends beneath the cantilevered floor slabs. The floating roof rests on a wall of glass while the slightly elevated lanai encourages landscaped terraces to connect the house to the countryside. The floating timber staircase becomes a grand feature that floats above the floor plane as the natural stone cladded wall forms the perfect frame for the

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sculptural masterpiece by Regardt van der Meulen. A bridge with glass balustrade connects the two wings of the house while also maintaining a sense of privacy for the main bedroom located on the eastern wing of the house. All the rooms have been organised around the double-volume living space that becomes central to the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifestyle. The two ensuite childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bedrooms are positioned on the western wing with their own private balconies. M Square Lifestyle Design ensured that a mood of warmth and comfort filtered through into the interior spaces, and that the finishes remained true to the architecture of the home, thus emphasising the modern clean lines and natural materials used throughout this house. To achieve this, M Square Lifestyle Design set out to incorporate materials such as timber and stone, as well as concrete and glass into the interiors of the home, facilitating a seamless blending in with the estateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s country environment. Making use of these materials created a textured and unique interior while aiding in the flow of inside and outside spaces. This visual incorporation of the exterior flowing into the interior, along with the linear design elements, allowed the area to further remain practical and uncluttered. The scullery, wine cellar and guest toilet are strategically concealed behind shop-fitted components enabling a simple contemporary interior. The kitchen counter doubles up as a server for both the kitchen and the lanai. The design of the main bedroom incorporates a private lounge and a discreetly screened walkin dressing room. The tinted glass screen offers

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Project: House in Blair Atholl

privacy for the dressing room, adding an element of luxury with its high-gloss finish. The suite flows onto a large private balcony with magnificent views of the paddocks and surrounds. The bed is perfectly positioned in a recessed niche lined with textured wallpaper creating an intimate setting. M Square Lifestyle Design and Nico van der Meulen Architects have flawlessly merged the interior with the exterior, while M Square Lifestyle Necessities’ supply of contemporary furniture, sourced from the finest international brands, completes the home’s luxurious look. This results in visual continuity between every room and every aspect of the home, which ultimately lends itself to the family being able to interact from every space in the home.

Project: Designed by: Location: Residence size:

House in Blair Atholl Werner van der Meulen Blair Atholl, Johannesburg, South Africa 750m²

Note: M Square Lifestyle Design is an interior design practice that creates bold and contemporary design solutions while M Square Lifestyle Necessities is an upmarket furniture and décor showroom with a selection of the finest imported furniture from design studios around the world. Both companies were established in association with Nico van der Meulen Architects.

NICO VAN DER MEULEN ARCHITECTS T +27 011 789 5242 W www.nicovdmeulen.com

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Editorial: Dow Polyurethanes

Dow’s new Polyurethane Systems House benefits SA’s construction industry Today’s homes demand high-performance materials that are strong, durable, lightweight, energy efficient, sustainable, and easy to install. Hence, the quality and performance of building material must be exceptionally reliable, which is why polyurethane products can be an excellent choice for homes and buildings. One common use of polyurethane is rigid foam, which has distinctive insulating properties that make it ideal for walls and roofs in new home construction and remodelling projects. The insulating quality of rigid polyurethane foam enables builders to make walls thinner and roof profiles lower, creating more space and requiring less energy to keep the home at a comfortable temperature all year round. Rigid foam also saves homeowners money in reduced construction costs and lower utility bills. In addition, polyurethane adhesives and sealants also deliver superior performance in a variety of construction industry uses. The material offers good adhesion to numerous substrates, such as concrete, wood, plastic and glass because of its elasticity and structural properties. These features, together with

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continuous technology improvements, have widened the number of polyurethane adhesive and sealant applications in residential projects.

Dow’s track record in construction panel innovation

Dow develops and delivers a broad portfolio of performance polyurethane products and tailor-made solutions to customers in energy-efficient residential and commercial construction. The material science company continues to innovate in the established VORATHERMTM product range for construction panels, which is known for its excellent fire-resistant properties, good thermal insulation, balanced processability, and remarkable panel quality and durability.

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Editorial: Dow Polyurethanes

The latest innovation in this portfolio is the VORATHERMTM CN 100 series that allows for more sustainable production of energy-efficient and firerated insulated metal panels. This polyisocyanurate (PIR) technology from Dow uses halogen-free flame retardants and can enable excellent fire ratings up to B-s1, d0 Euroclass. With this series, manufacturers of insulated metal panels by continuous process can produce sandwich panels that meet stringent firereaction standards and sustainability requirements. Innovation for the construction market is also accessible through the global industrial-scale panel development centre, cedepa, located in Tudela, Spain, which was established four years ago by Dow and advanced polyurethane equipment producer, SAIP. Insulated metal panels and insulation boards manufacturers from around the globe go there to test and develop new polyurethane formulations and application solutions for the construction market – for example for prefabricated housing. The cedepa centre helps to fully develop, prototype, test panels and improve the panel production process, which supports innovation development globally to mitigate risk for new projects, and to accelerate customers new line commercialisation and shorten timelines to certify products. This is especially helpful for emerging geographies such as sub-Saharan Africa.

Locally available construction innovation

According to Jonathan Penrice, global vice president of Polyurethanes at Dow, the company is positive about the opportunities that its polyurethane innovations can bring to customers, markets and society. ‘Our differentiated polyurethane solutions can help move the needle to improve people’s lives everywhere, especially in emerging markets where they have the opportunity to build things better from the start.’ For this reason, Dow recently introduced the first dedicated Polyurethanes Systems House in Durban, South Africa, which will serve as a hub to

provide the sub-Saharan African region with tailormade polyurethanes systems for energy efficient construction, as well as other applications. The company is investing in local capability to better meet the specific requirements of the growing subSaharan African region and be able to respond more quickly to customer needs. In late 2016, this presence will be further fuelled by supply from Sadara, which will give sub-Saharan Africa access to more polyurethane materials needed to grow the construction, cold chain, and furniture and bedding markets in the region.

How South Africa benefits from polyurethanes

The timing couldn’t be more suitable as South Africa’s energy challenges continue to impact the economy, businesses and households. ‘The local need for more energy-efficient houses and food transportation to conserve energy can be met with our global innovations tailored to local market needs,’ explains Mohammed Sami, commercial leader sub-Saharan Africa for Dow Polyurethanes. ‘We are convinced polyurethane solutions can make a difference and deliver solutions for challenges in the region – such as highly-efficient and practical insulation materials for homes, buildings and refrigerated trucks, which reduce energy consumption and cost, as well as greenhouse gas emissions.’ In support of insulation materials, South Africa’s power utility, Eskom, encourages the construction industry to build energy-efficient homes. In its INSULATION IN BUILDINGS: RESIDENTIAL HOMES AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS’ REPORT (2010), Eskom stated: ‘With electricity costs rising, energy efficiency is also becoming a priority for property and home owners. An insulated room requires 51% less energy to heat up than one that isn’t.’ Sami concludes: ‘Dow envisages that the use of polyurethanes as an insulation material will save costs for both businesses and households alike.’

DOW POLYURETHANES, Sub-Saharan Africa Mohammed Sami, Regional Commercial Manager E msami@dow.com T +27 011 575 0809

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Advertorial: Mapei South Africa

Suitable for most concrete repair work both internally and externally.

Suitable for use in repairing precast concrete members and elements.

Can be used for Quick smoothing over surface defects in existing cast concrete.

Mapei technology provides the ideal solution for repairing concrete Leading wooden window and door manufacturer, Swartland, offers an overview on the newly introduced National Building Regulations relating to energy efficiency. Mapei South Africa has addressed the increasingly important issue of repairing damaged concrete structures to extend their service life by introducing Planitop Smooth & Repair R4. This rapid setting cementitious mortar is another technology innovation from the international Mapei group, world leader in the production of adhesives, sealants and chemical products for building. In extensive testing internationally, Planitop Smooth & Repair R4 has been highly successful at protecting against carbonation and chloride attack, extending the time to onset of initial corrosion and suppressing corrosion propagation. The product is a one-component thixotropic mortar containing polyacrylonitrile fibres, synthetic polymers and special admixtures. The result is an exceptional R4-class mortar that offers a solution for convenient high performance structural repairs and smoothing of any internal or external damaged concrete surface, even surfaces in permanent contact with water. It is applied by trowel to horizontal or vertical surfaces in a single layer from 3 - 40 mm thick. Some typical applications would be rapid repair work on deteriorated concrete beams and pillars, cornices and edges of balconies, as well as repairs to structural elements that require a mortar with high mechanical performance properties. It is finding considerable use for repairing precast concrete members and damage caused by rusty reinforcing bars. The user-friendly product is particularly useful for quickly smoothing over surface defects in cast concrete before painting the surface with a coat of either an elastomeric product from the Mapei Elastocolor range or an acrylic paint from the Colorite range. Planitop Smooth & Repair R4 forms a mortar with good workability and setting and hardening times that can be regulated by adding Mapetard ES. It hardens without shrinkage and has excellent adhesion to concrete substrates and to steel reinforcement, especially if the steel has been pretreated with

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Mapefer 1K anti-corrosion and re-alkalising cementitious mortar. Mapei’s renowned research and development has formulated an allround solution to the requirements of an ideal repair mortar, providing: • Good impermeability to water and salt solutions • Good impermeability to carbon dioxide • Good crack Planitop Smooth and Repair is bridging supplied in 25Kg bags • Good adhesion to substrate • Good ageing resistance “Planitop Smooth & Repair R4 really does tick all the boxes,” says Mapei South Africa’s Product Manager, Paul Nieuwoudt. “I am confident that it will become a standard stock item for anyone involved in concrete repairs, whether in the precast concrete industry, general construction work or even DIY homeowners.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PLANITOP SMOOTH & REPAIR, PLEASE CONTACT MAPEI SOUTH AFRICA ON: +27 011 552 8476

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Project: University of the Free State

New Visitor Center for the University of the Free State The new visible and accessible Visitor Centre at the University of the Free State is designed to provide visitor information, regulate parking, and allow time durations on the main campus. The need to have control over who enters the campus at the University of the Free State (UFS) prompted an analysis and evaluation of the existing infrastructure at the five access points to the main campus. The identification of cost-effective solutions that ensure acceptable levels of service at each access point called for a visitor centre to be accessible without entering university grounds. This centre has to serve the UFS visitor with information regarding activities on campus, regulate visitors parking, and allow time durations on the main campus. It was also imperative that the location of the facility be clearly visible and easily accessible. Because of the position of the Taxi Terminus, ample parking and the proximity of the available site to Bloemfonteinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main road, Nelson Mandela Drive, the site for the new Visitors Centre was chosen near the existing DF Malherbe entrance gate.

Motivation for design and positioning The most important aspects of the design was visibility and accessibility. Not only finding the right

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Project: University of the Free State

site but also the position of the structure on the chosen site among existing walkways, the DF Malherbe gate entrance, and the existing Taxi Terminus. Completed in 2007, the Taxi Terminus, which earned Typology Architects a SAIA award of excellence, was a major factor during the design process. The pedestrian walkway was extended from the Taxi Terminus and created a starting point for the design. By positioning the Visitor Centre at the other end, the connection between the two buildings becomes a visitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s precinct. The structure acts as a threshold for visitors, comprising two box elements that interlock to create a node that extends through a walkway to the Taxi Terminus and beyond to the campus. Echoing the design ethos of the Taxi Terminus, the largest box element is mostly from glass and aluminium to encourage visibility with the smaller masonry box element designed for more private office spaces and services. The glass box is covered with a large corrugated steel roof structure that enhances the entrance and creates covered outdoor social areas and deep overhangs for sun control. The design achieves further visibility with a strong vertical tower element, which is lit up at night, and not easily overlooked. Interlocking tectonic and stereotomic elements in both the Taxi Terminus and Visitors Centre creates a specific architectural language that enhances the feeling of a visitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s precinct.

TYPOLOGY ARCHITECTS Principal Architect: Henry Pretorius T +27 051 448 3928

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Advertorial: BlueScope Steel Southern Africa A D V E RTOR IAL

Specifying a premium product for premium results

Clean C O LO R B O N D ® with Thermatech™ this is a high-performance, pre-painted steel developed by bluescope, comprising multilayers of coatings and offering high levels of corrosion resistance, excellence in colour performance and resistance to tropical staining.

ADVERTORIAL

Project name: Holdsport Ltd Product used: Clean COLORBOND® Roof Colour: African White Cladding Colour: African White, Armour Grey, Shale Grey Total m²: 9855m² roof 6360m² cladding Name of Architect: Bam Architects Photograph by: Gareth Grifﬁths Imaging

R E S E A R C H A N D D E V E LO P M E N T

Clean Technology (Designed by BlueScope) - thermal project name: holdsport ltd comfort is maintained by the dirt resistance properties in Clean

• Continue to develop and improve product performanceproject via to projectsteel. basis. used: Clean Colorbond® Colorbond® the solar reflectance ofproduct the roof sheeting will MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE bluescope research (bsr) and collaboration with others

SPECIFYING A PREMIUM PRODUCT

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THE BLUESCOPE DIFFERENCE photograph by: gareth griffiths imaging ZINCALUME® base - the coating on ZinCalume® steel (since 1966) • provide technical support / literature (see website for data comprises 55% aluminum, by 43.5% zinc and 1.5%- silicon. it has Thermatech™ (Designed BlueScope) • BlueScope designs its own paint system in sheets, fact files, corrosion bullitens etc. excellent corrosion performance, out performsisgalvanized Thermatech™ solar refl ectancewhich technology conjuction with the paint company (paint systems Z275 material by up to COLORBOND 4 times in the same® environment. steel to lower incorporated in Clean are propriety to BlueScope steel). 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For example, SRIthevalue forbranding colourtext. Off White is 85 side of thethe coil for following RESEARCH project ANDbasis. DEVELOPMENT Clean Technology (Designed by BlueScope) Preferred byand manyimprove roll formingproduct operators – due to the consistent • Continue to develop Clean COLORBOND steel made by BlueScope G550 AZ150 0.53TCT 16:18 01:APR:13 11 Thermal comfort is maintained by the dirt resistance strength/thickness and superior paint coating. performancetensile via BlueScope Research (BSR ) and properties in Clean COLORBOND® steel. The solar collaboration with others research institutional reflectance of the roof sheeting will be influenced by universities. 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Technology (Designed by BlueScope) - Proven paint heat off text roofing • Contain branding atmaterial. reverse the side for product same material as used for the roofing. durability performance against natural weathering identification and traceability. • thermatech™ solar reflectance technology – reduces roof (color fading/chalking/fl aking/dirt bluescope steel southern africa (pty) staining). ltd Warranty – We offersurface a product/material warranty on a temperature by up to 6°C

FOR PREMIUM RESULTS

tel: +27 442 5420 THERE SIMPLY NO21 SIMILAR OR EQUIVALENT PRODUCT reduce annual cooling energy consumption by upIS to 15% email: wayne.miller@bluescope.com ZINCALUME® OR CLEAN COLORBOND® For example, the SRI value for colour Off White is 85 Website: www.bluescope.co.za •

BLUESCOPE STEEL SOUTHERN AFRICA (PTY) LTD J ourna l 6 • Se p t e m b e r 20 15 T +27 021 442 5420 58 SPECIFY ZINCALUME® OR CLEAN COLORBOND® E wayne.miller@bluescope.com AND DO NOT SETTLE FOR ANYTHING LESS. W www.bluescope.co.za w ww. wa l l s a n d ro ofs . c o. z a

C l e CLEAN an COLORBOND® C O LO R B O ND® WITH THERMATECH™ with Thermatech™

www.wallsandroofs.co.za

A D V E R TOR I A L

J o urna l 6 • Se p t e m b e r 2015

This is a high-performance,

this is a high-performance, pre-painted steel developed pre-painted steel developed by by BlueScope, comprising bluescope, comprising multimultilayers of coatings and layersoffering of coatings and offering high levels of corrosion high levels of corrosion resistance, resistance, excellence in colour performance and excellence in colour performance resistance to tropical staining. and resistance to tropical staining.

R E S E A R C H A N D D E V E LO P M E N T

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•

Continue to develop and improve product performance via

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comfort is maintained by the dirt resistance properties in Clean Colorbond® steel. the solar reflectance of the roof sheeting will

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Editorial: Sustainable Concrete Construction

Concrete: The quest for sustainable infrastructure construction By Daniel van der Merwe, architect at PPC

Africa’s context demands that we innovate across the full value chain, from planning to design, construction and building management. As such, much sustainable innovation will have to do with the use of concrete as a building material.

Daniel van der Merwe

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Concrete continues to play a pivotal role in economic growth, both locally and globally. As infrastructure investment and development across Africa takes on a new sense of urgency, the construction industry is recognising that a different approach is required on, and for, the continent. However, we can’t simply take textbook-type economic models and apply them across this diverse space if we’re committed to taking a long-term view of sustainability. To improve the sustainability of all concrete structures we have to understand the interdependencies from ‘cradle to grave’ in the design phase, during construction, at end of life and, most importantly, how these impact the levels of energy savings achievable during a structure’s life cycle and use. While the industry has worked to quantify embodied impact of materials used in infrastructure development, effectively measuring the whole-life impact, the full effects of the infrastructure’s existence during its usage phase continue to challenge the industry. However, this type of measurement is critical if we’re to meet future targets of ‘zero net-energy’ buildings. Understanding the full impact of concrete is therefore central to this equation. Thanks to its flexibility and durability, concrete is the most widely consumed substance on earth (after water), with approximately 12 billion tons being created globally every each year. Cement is a constituent of concrete (approximately 10 to 15% by volume). The energy used in cement production is a key component of the environmental cost of concrete manufacture because of the high kiln temperature involved in production. However, this must be viewed in context. The operational use of buildings in the UK, for example, accounts for some 50% of that country’s carbon dioxide emissions, with transport responsible for a further 30%. In South Africa, cement manufacture accounts for less than 2% of South Africa’s CO2 emissions, and this is set to decrease further. The industry is already reducing

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Editorial: Sustainable Concrete Construction

Meridian Building Milaniofiori, pigemtned fibre cement precast

Portside Place, Cape Town, 5 Star Green Star Rated

Fernando Meni

energy consumption by decreasing the volume of non-renewable fossil fuels used in the manufacturing process by introducing more modern technology and equipment. This includes the use of alternative fuels and resources in kilns, including waste tyre-burning – a process that is being effectively trialled by PPC at its De Hoek plant in the Western Cape – reducing the site’s coal usage by an estimated 10% and decreasing nitrous emissions. PPC is simultaneously addressing the sustainable management of used tyres. Cement extenders also have an important role to play in the sustainability space. Because they reduce the CO2 per ton of cement (as well as

offering other benefits ranging from better workability of fresh concrete to the creation of more durable, impermeable concrete), more effective awareness of their qualities can ensure better planning and use of concrete as a sustainable building material. With concrete’s full impact – from more sustainable manufacture to its low-embodied energy properties – still being fully quantified by players in the industry, perhaps the most important point to note is that collaboration and technical partnerships are critical in realising its full potential. As such, the industry will have to innovate together if we are to positively redefine the continent’s future and root its development in sustainability.

About PPC Ltd As the leading supplier of cement and related products in southern Africa, PPC Ltd has nine manufacturing facilities and three milling depots in South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. Related products include aggregates from quarries in Gauteng and Botswana. PPC Lime supplies metallurgical grade lime, burnt dolomite. PPC Zimbabwe is a subsidiary of PPC Ltd.

PPC T +27 011 386 9000 W www.ppc.co.za PPCisCement PPC.Cement

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Advertorial: Shutter Cape

External Venetian Blinds How can WAREMA Sunshading contribute to Green Star ratings? A good amount of natural daylight and intelligent control of solar radiation are the hallmarks of the new generation of “green” buildings, and increasingly form part of building codes and objectives of organisations. A large portion of the sun’s rays penetrate through glass and is absorbed into the room. This direct radiation effect can cause discomfort for occupants, thus requiring airconditioning to cool down the building. Even on cold days, the sun’s effect (in the form of glare) can become quite uncomfortable. External Sunshading entirely overcomes these issues by means of deflecting a substantial portion of solar radiation and controlling flow of daylight. As a cost saving measure, clear glazing can be used, since it is no longer the glass, but the external Sunshading system, that is controlling the flow the solar radiation. It is common for external blinds to lower room temperatures by around 10 degrees. This means great savings on cooling costs and depending on location may remove the need for cooling altogether. An ideal combination for South Africa’s intense radiation is double glazing (highly effective in preventing winter heat loss) together with external shading to lower the heat gain. Buildings created with these measures enjoy a comfortable and stable temperature all year round.

A product like WAREMA external venetian blinds provides complete control over solar gain. The blades are incrementally adjustable and coupled with a WAREMA control system track the path of the sun to optimize the interior condition. When the sun sensor measures that exterior conditions are dull, the blinds are retracted to maximise the penetration daylight!

Benefits:

Increase room comfort! • Enhance daylight! • Save energy costs on cooling & artificial lighting! Reduce building costs! • Get Green Star ratings!

SHUTTER CAPE Unit 5, Nobel Park, Nobel Street The Interchange, Somerset West T +27 021 852 8785 E info@shutterscape.co.za W www.shutterscape.co.za

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Advertorial: Alucobond

ALUCOBOND® – the original aluminium composite material ALUCOBOND® is a global market leader for aluminium composite panels that, since their introduction to the market in 1969, have been widely used in architecture, as well as for corporate identity programmes, particularly for façades, wall and roof cladding. ALUCOBOND® aluminium composite panels are outstanding thanks to their extreme evenness and rigidity, as well as their excellent formability with simple fabrication techniques. They are available in a large variety of colours, surfaces and formats, as well as in various core variations, such as ﬁre-retardant and non-combustible versions. ALUCOBOND® for rear-ventilated façades unite the features of energy-efﬁcient construction, economic viability and architectural quality. The brand ALUCOBOND® is produced at the 3A Composites factories in Singen, Germany; Benton in the USA; Shanghai, in the People‘s Republic of China; and in Khopoli, India. With its comprehensive knowhow, 3A Composites supports architects, designers and investors in designing and realising building envelopes.

offer architecture a whole new range of solutions – whether your project is a private home, a public building, corporate headquarters and ofﬁces, a trading or industrial complex, or if your organisation wants to create a new image-building corporate design, such as for petrol stations, car showrooms, banks or supermarkets.

Routing and folding technique

ALUCOBOND® is a composite panel consisting of two aluminium cover sheets and a mineral-ﬁlled core. The superb properties of this material boost inspiration and

Thanks to a very simple processing method, ALUCOBOND® composite panels can be folded manually, following the exact line of the routed groove. To enable this, grooves are routed on the reverse side of the ALUCOBOND® panel – the shape of the groove determines the bending radius. Routing can be done using a vertical panel saw equipped with ALUCOBOND® grooving accessories, a CNC machining centre, a portable sheet milling machine, or a hand router. The routing and folding method can be used for ALUCOBOND® composite panels with all available standard surface ﬁnishes.

ALUCOBOND® consists of two aluminium layers and a mineral ﬁlled core.

Routing and folding technique with ALUCOBOND®

The product

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Advertorial: Alucobond

Routing and folding technique

Surface finishes

The effect of space is created by colour and light. As an essential component of architecture, a colour scheme creates individual space and plays an essential supporting role in the utilisation of the building. ALUCOBOND® solid colours – From delicate white to strong red, solid colours generate a unified appearance without any special effects. ALUCOBOND® metallic colours – Changing light conditions and perspectives endow these timelessly elegant colours with a glowing, lively appearance. ALUCOBOND® spectra and sparkling colours – Depending on the type of pigment and angle of vision, a particularly eye-catching effect is created by the changing colour gradients of the spectra colours with iridescent highlights. Subtle glitter and shine effects make sparkling colours exciting.

ALUCOBOND® naturAL

Aluminium’s natural and original beauty is shown to its best effect, and every object takes on a distinguished yet lively appearance. The surface structures bring about an interplay between metallic shine and the reflection and absorption of light. In addition, a refined

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metallic look is created by the subtle rapprochement to real metals.

ALUCOBOND® Anodized Look

Matt finish, velvet-like metal has a charm all of its own. Made in accordance with the EURAS industrial standard, the surfaces harmonise optimally with anodised window frames, profiles and doors. In contrast to anodised materials, ALUCOBOND® Anodized Look panels can be trimmed and bent without any problem.

ALUCOBOND® Ligno

The natural beauty of wood united with the strength of ALUCOBOND® provides outstanding formability, excellent flatness and bending stiffness, as well as excellent long-term durability and weather resistance. Moreover, a special coating adds a grainy structured feel to the surface.

ALUCOBOND® urban

Urban life is characterised by interplays of light and shadows, transparency and colour. Muted, extremely matt surfaces and colours of ALUCOBOND® urban

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Advertorial: Alucobond

Surface ﬁnishes

ALUCOBOND® surface variety

ALUCOBOND® Ligno

provide open space for design and support the urban character of the building.

ALUCOND® terra

ALUCOBOND® Terra is inspired by iridescent stone. The décor’s surface refracts the daylight creating a matt sheen and lustrous hues, sometimes elegant and sometimes earthy.

ALUCOBOND® design

Customised decors and design ideas can be achieved with ALUCOBOND®. Design your own building façade. Customised decors are available even in small lot sizes.

About the company

3A Composites has developed, manufactured and marketed high-quality aluminium composite panels, structural composite material, plastic sheets and lightweight foam boards for architecture,

ALUCOBOND® urban

ALUCOBOND® terra

visual communication, and transport and industry markets since 1969. The company’s famous brands, ALUCOBOND®, DIBOND®, ALUCORE®, KAPA® and FOREX®, have established its reputation as a global company. Following the integration of the Polycasa group in April 2015, 3A Composites has extended its product portfolio with a wide choice of plastic sheet to strengthen its position as a diverse, leading manufacturer of materials for display, building and industrial applications in Europe. 3A Composites is part of the international 3A Composites Group that belongs to Schweiter Technologies, a listed company headquartered in Horgen, Switzerland. 3A Composites, formerly known as Alcan Composites and an independent division of Schweiter Technologies since December 1, 2009, has approximately 4 700 employees worldwide. In addition to the above mentioned market segments, 3A Composites focuses on wind energy and the marine market with its trademarks AIREX® and BALTEK®.

ALUCOBOND / 3A COMPOSITES T +27 082 450 8994 E info.eu@alucobond.com W www.alucobond.com

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Project: Alucobond

A protective mask For these residential blocks, ALUCOBOND® performs like a protective mask, providing privacy, regulating exposure to sunlight, and achieving much-needed noise reduction. Live’in was built in the Aveiro’s southern development area that is characterised by large malls and new residential areas. Dealing with the impact of noise from the nearby eight-lane highway crossing the city from east to west was the main challenge. The building consists of three residential blocks with 89 apartments set above an extended commercial block that acts as a type of base. The buildings are linked by two distinctive levels, one to the north and the other to the south. The eastern tower offers smaller-format flats, whereas its twins provide larger accommodation units. Setting the two towers at an angle has left a clear line of vision towards the west and the coast, as well as enhancing the sense of space between the blocks. This unconventional geometry requires an optimal structural solution to allow maximum flexibility in terms of planning the interior. To achieve this goal and give the impression of more open space, only four pillars appear at each side of the elevator. The double external skin on the twin blocks exterior determines their appearance. The first outer layer comprises extensive floor to ceiling windows extending the perceived space towards the balconies. The metallic skin made of ALUCOBOND® acts like a protective mask, providing privacy and regulating exposure to sunlight. Most importantly, it also achieves a noise reduction of up to 22db.

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Project: Alucobond

PROJECT DETAILS

Project: Live’in, Aveiro | Portugal Architect: RVDM (Ricardo Vieira de Melo), Aveiro | Portugal Fabricator: Cociga, Pedroso – V. N. Gaia | Portugal Year of Construction: 2009 Product: ALUCOBOND® Silver Metallic/Grey Metallic Photos: RVDM, Cociga

ALUCOBOND® T +27 082 450 8994 E info.eu@alucobond.com W www.alucobond.com

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Editorial: Lighting Sensor Savings

Large manufacturer saves big with energy-efficient lighting In 2014, a Nelson Mandela Bay-based manufacturer approached local energy saving company, Quality Demand Management (QDM), to assist in reducing its monthly energy account. PE-based QDM, known for its roll-out of Eskom’s lighting and sensor retrofit projects in the province, conducted an on-site audit of the plant and discovered sustainable energy savings opportunities existed. Today, energy saving is a fundamental component of South Africa’s energy and environmental policies as it reduces greenhouse gas emissions in a more cost effective way than any other energy or climate policy. Despite a major drive to switch off lights when not needed, lighting and air-cons are often found left on in unoccupied offices and warehouses as was the case in this project.

Financial investment

After consultation, an investment of R2.3 million was made towards energy saving lights and motion sensors. A first point of call for all energy saving projects is to upgrade the lighting fixtures according to the premises exact needs, and install updated technology that can significantly optimise power usage. The company decided to move away from the old technology and installed quality energy-saving lights. Sensors installed regulate the lights and air-con in the offices and warehouse when there is no occupancy. In the office block, savings of around 40% per year were forecast with lighting and air-con accounting for up to 60% of the buildings running costs per year.

Installation

The installation took three months as 921 indoor and outdoor lights were replaced and 497 sensors were installed. Lights were selected according to their energy saving and payback and not according

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to what was the latest in the market. This step was important as an investment of this amount needed to be justified on grounds of efficiency, quick payback and minimal disruption to the premises. While the project would have still been attractive to the investors without installing sensors, it was the installation of these motion sensors that propelled the payback and provided immediate results. The basic equation relating to lighting controls and energy usage can be described by Energy = Power x Time. Until fairly recently, lighting control systems were typically designed to control either the power or the time but never both. As newer and improved methods of control have emerged (PIR, ultrasonic, microwave and microphonic) the concept of energy saving through lighting has shifted away from just the mandatory upgrades of lamps and ballasts and moved towards a combined methodology where by the combination of lighting and sensors are used to yield optimum savings in any environment. A lot of consideration went into choosing the correct lights for each application. From this process, what became clear was that ‘pure savings’ cannot be the only aspect considered when assessing a lighting upgrade. The need for the implementation of energy savings must be balanced with affordability of the investment required to achieve the savings in question. This is where the debate on LED versus halogen technology arose – year on year, an equivalent LED light system would reduce lighting energy consumption by 84%, and the initial upgrade

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Editorial: Lighting Sensor Savings

to the lighting infrastructure required to support the LEDs would increase the total project cost by 42% (R970 000). A middle ground was clearly needed and was reached by balancing savings and initial cost. The result was to replace the larger floodlight forms with LEDs and leave other light forms as halogen technology, but still upgrade lamps (for example, T8 to T5 technologies with savings of 70%). A project was then implemented that achieved remarkable savings while keeping the ROI and investment at acceptable levels. As the market for LEDs grows and the development in the technology as a whole increases, a future will begin to immerge where LEDs will become the top choice for lighting upgrades, as a lower cost will eliminate all possible reasons not to convert to LED systems. However, for now halogen still holds the monopoly on the lighting sector.

Results and return on investment

The project saw immediate savings of 45% peaking at 69% in January 2015, and averaging at 52% over the year. Savings accounted for 476 MWh in this first year, producing an astonishing payback of 3.5 years and saving over R700 000 per year in energy costs. To put that into perspective, the savings equate to around 331 metric tons of CO2 or 162 000kg of coal. This would be enough power for 90 homes for a year, and equal the removal of 140 tons of garbage sent to landfill sites. The energy saving efforts have been driven by the plant’s management with the good news story influencing the way staff consider energy and how they use it in their homes. ‘We are very pleased with the savings and will be rolling out this energy-saving project to our other sites. It has been an excellent project to help us with our sustainability objectives and

ensure we continue with responsible business in South Africa,’ says QDM’s technical support manager.

Conclusion

While the South African market has become flooded with energy-saving products, it’s not simply the acquisition, but implementation of these products combined with the knowledge and data collected by a company such as QDM spearheading the shift towards efficiency that builds and drives commercial and residential premises to implement programmes such as this. As a country with a looming energy crisis, there is no better time to adopt the mind-set of personal accountability for energy consumption in all forms. Hopefully the success of this project will inspire many others to follow suit as this is just one step towards a greener, more sustainable South Africa.

QUALITY DEMAND MANAGEMENT W www.qdm.co.za

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Advertorial: Dynamic Lighting & Shading Solutions

Controlling light, saving energy Dynamic Lighting & Shading Solutions has been controlling light and saving energy since 1996. Dynamic Lighting & Shading Solutions (DLSS) is run by owner, Eddie Scholtz, together with a dynamic support team. Eddie has 20 years’ experience in the lighting control and home automation industry and has represented Lutron throughout South Africa for the last 19 years. DLSS has over 80 residential installations in South Africa and Namibia, and 30 prestigious hotel and commercial installations in South Africa, Namibia and Mauritius. Selecting DLSS guarantees years of experience and expertise in designing your system to offer you all the benefits of home automation and energy saving, the driving aspect of all Lutron products. Eddies’ background in the electrical industry ensures that installation electricians are well briefed and supported throughout the project, providing peace of mind that the system is correctly installed. DLSS and Lutron place your smart home in the palm of your hand via your smart devices, giving you complete control from anywhere in the world. Lutron is the world leader in innovative lighting control products. In the last 50 years, Lutron has invented hundreds of lighting control devices and systems, and expanded its product offering from two products to 15 000. The company has advanced the technology of lighting control while maintaining a top market position by focusing on exceptional quality and design. Lutron continues to lead the market in high-quality lighting controls for fluorescent, halogen incandescent, magnetic low-voltage, electronic lowvoltage and LED light sources. Since installing the first fully-automated Lutron home system in South Africa in 1997, and together with Lutron, DLSS has continued to set the trend of automating homes with the emphasis on saving energy while customising home control to fit individual client’s needs. Lutron has also lead innovations in window shade technology for the control of daylight with its roller shades, venetian blinds, and skylight tension shades. This allows DLSS to control natural light,

which results in a reduction of heat and glare, and provides protection from harmful UV light. Another facet that keeps DLSS and Lutron successful is their commitment to customers. Since the beginning, Lutron has maintained excellent service and DLSS strives to maintain the high level set by Lutron. Lutron has 24-hour technical support for its products and a friendly customer service department that sustains close relationships with all Lutron clients.

Save energy and money

• All Lutron dimmers save energy. Saving energy means saving the environment and saving you money. • All light sources use less energy when dimmed; all Lutron dimmers extend bulb life. • Lutron estimates that its lighting control products and solutions helped electrical customers save $1-billion in energy costs in 2008. • It is more economical to conserve electricity with dimmers than to build generating capacity. • Lutron solutions contribute to 37 out of 110 possible points in the LEED 2009 NC rating system. • Lutron makes products that dim all light sources and provides the flexibility to choose the light source you prefer.

Productivity

• Lutron lighting controls increase comfort and enhance satisfaction, thereby improving productivity. • Personal control of lighting leads to higher job satisfaction and productivity, and ultimately to employee retention. • Productivity increase can pay for lighting control systems. • If productivity increased by just 1% as a result of the installation of lighting controls, it could pay for the lighting controls in less than a year.

DYNAMIC LIGHTING & SHADING SOLUTIONS T +27 021 510 8402 W www.dlss.co.za

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Project: Central Media Group

New home for Central Media Group Photographs taken by Christoff Steyn, Johdan van Tonder, Ina Oosthuizen

When Tim Curry totters closer to the camera on his high heels in the cult classic, THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW, there is a radio mast in the background beaming sounds into the night sky. ‘Whatever happened to Fay Wray?’ he enquires in his breathy voice. In our time of visual hegemony, the radio is to most of us all but a memory. Yet radio stations have reinvented themselves by positioning their programmes and products in a more localised way, which television is still unable to do. Local is lekker. As a medium it is, regionally speaking, more popular than ever. People can simply not watch television and work at the same time, but listening to a radio is quite possible. Additionally, presenters and listeners become firm comrades in the small hours of the morning. The new home for the Central Media Group in Bloemfontein has been a dream cherished and nursed for a long time, but with the rapid expansion of the group it became a pressing necessity. A site to the north of the City of Bloemfontein, in a new privately-developed neighbourhood, offered the location and tranquillity that the company

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wanted. The site has distant views across the Seven Dams conservancy area on the outskirts of the city. The Central Media Group consists of a group of companies that include Mahareng, a publishing unit; OFM, the original radio station from which the company grew; Red Star, an events unit; Digital Platforms; and Central Outdoor. These companies also boast a number of products that include the Bloemfontein Courant, Get it magazine, Teen Mag, the OFM Hit Mobile, Brand Wave, Biz Wiz, Evolve and Agrieco. The building’s design called for several large, open-plan spaces where activities that range from routine administration management to highly-creative studio-type activities could take place. Two stateof-the-art digital broadcasting studios were also incorporated into the design.

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Project: Central Media Group

The building accommodates a staff of 104, and has a footprint of 2 320m². Radio stations unfortunately no longer have masts on their roofs that lend a distinctive and slightly mysterious element to the architecture. In the digital era, equipment has become smaller and is computer based. Thus, the building is in essence a contemporary work environment with specialised spaces scattered throughout the facility. The furniture is purpose-designed, and informal meeting spaces and refreshment stations are positioned at strategic junctions. Local artists were contracted to produce artworks that reflect the nature of the corporate culture of the company. A cafeteria, which also doubles as a large meeting space, allows staff to relax and interact during break periods. The main boardroom is positioned at the northwest corner of the building, allowing an uninterrupted view across the landscape. The building design had to conform to the estate’s design guidelines, which are flexible enough to allow substantial leeway in expression. A modest palette of materials and finishes were chosen for the design

of the building and include red face brick with black window frames in aluminium, while on the northern side painted mild steel balconies also double as solar control devices. The building design incorporates a number of passive energy-saving measures that include double glazing, cavity walls and industrial-type roof insulation. The roof covering is curved sheet metal with a dove grey finish. The interior working environment is designed in such a way that staff members have visual contact with the outside, at least on two sides. This was devised by glazing the enclosures of all the offices along the north-facing façades of the building. Symbolically, the broadcasting studios are the heart of the building. The broadcasting suite has glazed elements that allow broadcasters glimpses of the outside world. Public arriving at the main entrance of the building can, if they look up, see the studios and maybe even catch a peek of their favourite presenter. This signals to the outside world that this is also a radio station, even though the small digital dishes and antennas on the roof are no longer visible to the casual observer.

ROODT ARCHITECTS T +27 051 406 2100 E info@roodtarchitects.co.za W www.roodtarchitects.co.za

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Advertorial: AluGro

Exceptional service and quality products guaranteed Since AluGro’s launch – born from a frustration with bad service and poor quality from aluminium and glass companies – exceptional service and quality products will always remain the focus of AluGro’s business. AluGro was born from pure frustration by Nat Grobbelaar. While undertaking alterations to his house, he called 10 aluminium and glass companies to quote on a new outbuilding’s windows and doors. Of these 10 companies, only three turned up and none bothered to quote. He eventually managed to get another company to quote but had to wait for three months after paying a deposit before work commenced. After numerous failed attempts to get the company back to rectify their mistakes and attend to the snag list, he gave up and contacted his brother, Johan. Together they started AluGro. AluGro was established in March 2004 and, after a year, its 358m² rented premises was too small and an additional 358m² was rented. AluGro now owns its own 2 000m² building. To remain focused on attention to detail and provide excellent service and quality products, AluGro’s owners and shareholders decided to limit their number of employees. AluGro currently has four managers, four installation teams, and a total staff complement of 40 people. AluGro designs, manufactures and installs custommade aluminum windows and doors, including bank security doors (Mantraps). It is also one of the only companies in South Africa that manufactures arched windows and doors, and uses only the best

locally-available aluminium profiles to complement its imported European systems. When asked why AluGro is so successful, and probably the biggest exporter and installer of aluminium windows and doors to the rest of Africa, Johan Grobbelaar replies: ‘We believe that our customers, obviously apart from our staff, are our biggest asset. Almost all of our customers are very happy with our service and the products that we sell. We will keep trying to please all our customers and maybe one day we will be able to say that a 100% of them are 100% satisfied and extremely happy with their experience with us.’ AluGro’s profiles are extruded to ISO standards, and its products conform to SABS standards and the National Building Regulations. AluGro therefore offers a 12-month guarantee on all its products. Among other awards, AluGro won a nationwide competition hosted by Glass South Africa for Best Residential Project. Some of AluGro’s customers and/or contractors include: SA National Intelligence Service, SA Statistics, DLR Construction, DMG Construction, Isowall, Grinaker, HSRC, Transnet, Group Five, Gauteng Dept of Public Transport, Roads and Works, Louis Pasteur Hospital, Office Objects, Regus, Discovery Health, Sasol, Unisa, SARS and various embassies

ALUGRO W alugro.co.za T +27 012 804 4129 C +27 082 370 3336 F +27 086 600 4126

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Project: Perskor

Streamlining facilities Perskor building refurbishment for the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Johannesburg. The University of Johannesburg’s mission statement is ‘to inspire its community to transform and serve humanity through innovation and the collaborative pursuit of knowledge’. This vision has embodied the institution’s philosophy since its foundation as an amalgamation of various tertiary educational establishments in 2005, and the regeneration and expansion of the Doornfontein Campus is the personification of these principles in built form. In 2009, UJ initiated a consolidation project for the Faculties of Science, Health Sciences and Engineering, with the aim of streamlining existing

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facilities, adjusting to the needs of expanding faculties and aiding the regeneration and upliftment of the inner city. Part of the project involved the purchase of a 30 000m2 concrete frame 1960’s print works to the south of the main campus with the intention of refurbishing the building and triggering peripheral development in the process.

Design philosophy

The building is predominantly inhabited by the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, although lecture venues and computer laboratories

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Project: Perskor

PROJECT DETAILS Project Name: Perskor Building Refurbishment for the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Johannesburg Project Address: Doornfontein Campus, Height Street, Doornfontein, Johannesburg Total Project Cost: R166m Building Cost: R11 500/m2

provide for students from across the campus. With the main occupant in mind, the language of expressed structures and exposed services as an exhibit was considered an important teaching tool for students. This conceptual idea also goes further to acknowledge the historical function of the building as a piece of industrial architecture. With four main atria running through the structure, an internal street was created with a series of interlinking steel bridges. The route connects students arriving via Metrorail in the south, directs them centrally through the building and across a twisting sky-bridge at Beit Street to the main campus in the north. The use of the internalised

naturally-lit atria spaces for the circulation spine enabled the maximisation of the existing floor to provide accommodation for workshops, laboratories, teaching venues and three auditoria and associated administrative support facilities for the faculty. The emphasis on regenerate/refurbish/recycle was also applied to the water usage system in the building, with groundwater collected within the two basements and reused to supply fire water for sprinklers, the grey water system for ablution flushing, and irrigation on the main campus. The building is capable of a providing a further 10 000m2 of internal expansion space and has the possibility of an additional two storeys in the future.

GAPP ARCHITECTS/URBAN DESIGNERS T +27 011 482 1648 / +27 021 424 2390 W www.gapp.net

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Advertorial: JoJo Tanks

Think inside the tank – the perfect water storage solution Rather than complaining about water shedding, water outages and water interruptions, let’s start thinking about solutions and alternatives.

General consensus indicates that to live through our water problems we will need to have at least two days’ worth of water on hand. With the average South African family of four consuming around 282 litres (careful consumption) and 774 litres (wasteful consumption) of water per day, a storage capacity of between 564 litres and 1 584 litres of water is required. To give an idea of the water mass to be stored, the average bathtub holds around 200 litres of water. In the best case scenario three bathtubs filled with water will be needed. Worst-case scenario, nearly eight tubs will be required. Not a practical solution, we agree. Enter a JoJo water storage tank – the practical, easy-to-install and affordable answer to our water woes. JoJo tanks are not only available in a variety of sizes (260 litres to 20000 litres) to suit all requirements and budgets, they are also made from the best quality virgin food grade materials, lined with a carbon black food grade material to keep the water clean and prevent algae growth. Additionally, they carry an eight-year guarantee. Naturally, JoJo tanks can also be used for rainwater and grey water harvesting, or installed as a municipal back-up system. The JoJo Tanks website offers a list of recommended installers who are able to assist with all queries.

Drinking water from your tank:

1. Water doesn’t have an expiration date. If properly stored, it doesn’t spoil. Water only goes off when contaminated so make sure that proper precautions are in place to keep the water you store in good condition. 2. Stored water can taste flat and strange but that is because there’s no oxygen in it. To get rid of the stored water taste, simply swish your water around in your glass a few times before drinking. 3. If you are still worried about your water quality and its safety for drinking purposes, you have a few options:

• For smaller quantities: Bring the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute • For larger quantities: Add chlorine. The recommended amount is 1/8 teaspoon (0,6ml) of chlorine per 4 litres of water. The best chlorine to use is High Test Hypochlorite (HTH) granules or powder as this normally contains 50 to 70% chlorine. (Source:http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/ hygiene/envsan/tn03/en/)

JOJO TANKS T +27 013 262 7900 W www.jojotanks.co.za

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Advertorial: JSS Industrial Coatings

Quality coatings ensure quality protection For a decade, JSS Industrial Coatings has helped South African businesses to protect their industrial assets using only the best industrial coatings available. As a leading South African supplier in this sector, the business has grown from strength to strength over the years. JSS, which takes its name from the initials of the company’s founder, Jason Stephen Steyn, has come a long way over the past ten years since its launch in 2005 in Jason’s garage in Randfontein. Jason’s vision of a distinctive business in the specialised construction industry has led the company to evolve into one of South Africa’s leading companies in the field. According to Jason, it has taken blood, sweat and tears to bring the company to where it is today, but with a combination of determination, a serious approach to business, and the backing of an excellent team, JSS has managed to bridge the hard times and economical fluctuations and become a force to be reckoned with in this tough and challenging industry. JSS prides itself on excellent client service, and the use of quality products and superior workmanship. The team at JSS is known for going the extra mile to help customers meet specific requirements, and the company’s success lies in Jason’s uncompromising integrity that permeates through everything he does, from dealing with varying customer requirements and goals, to consistently encouraging each of his well-trained personnel to display moral strength and behaviour at all times. Jason believes in empowering his staff and encourages them to perform at their personal best to deliver workmanship of the highest quality, and to always aim to achieve the superior quality when it

comes to standards and services. This personalised and humanistic approach is what sets JSS apart from several competitors, and the personal touch is evident in the work they do, as several satisfied customers from the past ten years can confirm. The company specialises in the application of a range of hard-wearing industrial coatings. Epoxy, for example, is a tough, stable material that serves as a concrete floor sealant. It is one of the most popular types of flooring for heavy-duty industrial use. Epoxy coatings are generally used on concrete floors and walls, and on garage or workshop floors. Most commonly, epoxy coatings are used in warehouses, manufacturing plants, laboratories, food and beverage plants and even pharmaceutical institutions. Another popular product is polyurethane floor coating, which is suitable for high-traffic, high-impact industrial areas. Many businesses choose polyurethane floors to ensure durability, safety and resilience within the busy environments. Other services in JSS’s wide and comprehensive portfolio include acid proofing, waterproofing, joint sealing, concrete repairs, corrosion protection, sheeting (both new installations and the maintenance of existing installations), fibregrate, allumination and fireproofing. JSS makes use of the latest technology and machinery for dustless core drilling and vac-blasting, which also forms part of its extensive portfolio of specialised services.

JSS INDUSTRIAL COATINGS T +27 086 169 8137 W www.jssic.co.za

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Project: Park Inn by Radisson Cape Town

Park Inn by Radisson Cape Town Foreshore Hotel achieves Green Leaf™ Standard Through its partnership with Green Leaf™ Sustainability Services and its Think Planet and Living Responsible Business initiatives, the Park Inn by Radisson Cape Town Foreshore Hotel has achieved the coveted Green Leaf™ Eco Standard Core Certification. Driven for sustainable change and environmental impact, the leadership at Park Inn by Radisson Cape Town Foreshore embarked on the sustainability journey with the Green Leaf™ project to ensure that a lasting legacy remains in the region, and that locals will be proud of the impact made by the group. The standard was accomplished through various initiatives, including: • Introducing low-flow water showerheads in the guest rooms. • A lighting retrofit that included swopping out 1 000s of high-energy consuming halogen down lights with significantly more efficient LED versions. • To heat water, the building uses heat pumps that are up to ten times more efficient than boilers.

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• Key card systems are used in all rooms to switch off lights and air conditioners when the room is unoccupied. • Responsible purchasing practices, such as buying over 80% of its products from local suppliers, were introduced • A waste recycling project was introduced that reduces the amount of waste entering landfill. Park Inn Foreshore recognises the importance of getting its staff involved in reducing its impact on the environment by actively promoting sustainable business practices through its Think Planet and Responsible Business programmes, as well as ensuring all employees receive Responsible Business training to ensure full compliance and participation.

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Project: Park Inn by Radisson Cape Town

The Green Leaf™ Eco Standard is a global standard for measuring, managing and verifying sustainable business performance in an impartial manner. The Standard is designed to meet and exceed compliance with South African and international Codes of Good Practice and integrated reporting, and is a blueprint for achieving a sustainable, profitable future that is impact neutral and draws on the philosophy and 50-year track record in environmental leadership of its co-founder, the Wilderness Foundation.

Park Inn by Radisson Cape Town Foreshore

Located in the heart of Cape Town’s colourful and vibrant city, and conveniently situated close to top

tourist attractions, trendy bars and restaurants, as well as the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Park Inn by Radisson Cape Town Foreshore offers its guests a memorable experience. The hotel’s 120 stylishly-appointed rooms and suites provide the ultimate in relaxation and comfort. Guests can enjoy a cocktail at Harald’s Bar & Terrace with magnificent views of Table Mountain, or dine in the contemporary restaurant, RBG Bar & Grill, which a variety of delicious, local cuisine. Guests can soak up the sun at the hotel’s outdoor plunge pool or enjoy access to an on-site fitness centre. The hotel also boasts superior meeting spaces available to host intimate board meetings or mid-sized conferences, events and weddings. All rooms and public areas include complimentary Wi-Fi.

PARK INN FORESHORE @ParkInnCT parkinncapetownforeshore parkinncapetown Virtual Tour: PARK INN BY RADISSON CAPE TOWN FORESHORE GREEN LEAF™ ECO STANDARD W www.greenleafecostandard.net greenleafza GreenLeafZA

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Advertorial: Viega

Vandalism-proof public sanitary room equipment Top supplier, Viega, introduces new actuation panels that offer property owners high-quality design for robust environments. Sanitary facilities in public buildings have especially high traffic, which means high demand for functionality and safety against vandalism. Made from high-quality stainless steel, Visign for Public actuating panels harmoniously fit into the furnishings of public bathrooms with their reduced, simple style, including a flat installation of just 10mm. The stainless steel design guarantees high-level protection against vandalism by ensuring that the actuating panel can’t be removed haphazardly. The brushed or white lacquered smooth surface of the six product variations is simple to clean, contributing to hygiene without neglecting cost-effectiveness.

Building on Viega’s renowned electric flush technology, the developers combined the new Visign for Public models with an infrared detector. The technology distinguishes two different areas. In the far range – between 45 and 55cm – there is generally an automatic flush. This is only activated after a short time delay when the user leaves the detection area. In the close range, up to about 3cm, the user can activate the flush by simply moving a hand closer to the unit. This is an important function if, for instance, cleaning requires an extra flush or when the user enters the facility. This option to activate the flush, still touchless, is also possible even after each automatic flush.

Available for all concealed cisterns

Additional functions

Infrared WC actuating panels with manual flush options

Design

The Visign for Public series is available from the manufacturer for all Visign concealed cisterns. The actuating panels for the single volume flush are designed for mechanical actuation; a Bowden wire unit is included in the delivery scope for the dualvolume flush. The urinal panel with non-contact infrared technology operates using a battery or mains connection, while a cover panel for cisterns with remote actuation rounds off the series.

Visign for Public 6 is fitted with a detector that determines required flush volumes. If this additional function is activated, infrared technology activates an automatic full or partial flush volume after a set time delay (full flush volumes: 4.5, 6 or 9 litres). In contrast, Visign for Public 5 offers an additional option for manual flushing – activation at the push of a button – in case of a power cut. For both manual and infrared activation, a full flush is always possible for this model. As with the electronic flush, full flush volumes can be selected for between six and nine litres.

In public sanitary facilities, touchless actuation for the WC flush is recommended and Viega has expanded its successful Visign for Public series. Two new actuating panels, Visign for Public 5 and Visign for Public 6, activate the flush via infrared technology and guarantee touchless and easy flush control. In addition, the Visign for Public 5 version offers the option of mechanical activation. Photo credit: Viega

All models in the Visign for Public series are hardwearing, fitted with anti-theft features and equipped for the challenges of public sanitary facilities. The smooth surface makes cleaning easier and offers optimal hygiene conditions. Visign for Public 5 and Visign for Public 6 are made of high-grade stainless steel and available in brushed stainless steel and alpine white. They can be combined with virtually all Viega cisterns and can be retro-fitted in existing cisterns. If there is no power supply, they can also be operated using highperformance batteries. The control unit includes the Viega Hygiene+ function. A flush programme can be activated with an optional programming hand-set and the flush is automatically activated after 24, 72 or 168 hours with three, six or nine litres.

VIEGA SOUTH AFRICA Harscan Distributors T +27 011 787 2993 C +27 082 600 6566 E sales@harscan.co.za W www.viega.com/www.harscan.co.za

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Project: Newtown

The latest piece in the Newtown puzzle By Craig McClenaghan, Mashabane Rose Associates

Newtown has been a construction site for the last five years but, with a City Lodge nearing completion, the latest piece to be added to the puzzle is the new Laager Theatre, recently reopened by Johannesburg’s legendary Market Theatre. Newtown has been a construction site for the last five years, during which time it was rumoured (among construction workers) to boast the largest hole in the ground since construction of the Carlton Centre! Cranes, diggers, noise and dust are now (at last) starting to be replaced with a bunch of new buildings – and perhaps more importantly, the sights and sounds of downtown Jo’burgers shopping, eating, working and playing. With a City Lodge nearing completion, the latest piece to be added to the Newtown puzzle is the new Laager Theatre, recently reopened by Johannesburg’s legendary Market Theatre. Historically the smallest of the Market’s three theatres, The Laager has always been affectionately known as the smaller, slightly tatty ‘experimental’ sibling of the larger, more formal Barney Simon and John Kani Theatres. The brief for this new theatre aimed to celebrate this fact as an important design consideration. The scrappy 1980’s structure, carelessly slapped onto Museum Africa’s historic façades (hacking back the original roof line and smothering the old brickwork and windows) was torn down to make way for a newer, more flexible space, while still attempting to retain the ‘unpolished charm’ that theatre patrons came to love. The Laager theatre complex comprises a theatre (seating up to 180 patrons), a public lobby, and two ‘back of house’ wings (accommodating dressing

rooms, green rooms, actor’s bathrooms and offices) – one for the John Kani theatre and one for the Laager Theatre. The complex clips neatly onto the side of the existing Market Theatre/Museum Africa building, facing northwards towards the Newtown Junction development. The new theatre structure is a raw off-shutter concrete ‘box’ which, depending on the design of the performance, permits multiple options for stage and seating configuration – from traditional end-on, to thrust and even catwalk formation. With the theatre ‘box’ pulled away from the historic façades, the new lobby space formed in between is entered either through the main entrance of the Market Theatre, or from the newly-opened ‘Potato Shed’ eatery located under the fully-restored historic structure of the same name. Either way, the peculiar volumes created between old and new is a spatial surprise, further emphasised by the playfully-coloured interior red lighting. The emphasis on ‘shades of red’ in an otherwise deliberately minimal palette of materials, sets up an architectural dialogue with the historic red floor, brick and roof aesthetic of the surrounding context. Crisp, deep-punched windows acknowledge the rhythm and proportion of their historic counterparts on the façade behind. This building is at once about subtlety and at the same time surprise, with moments of playfulness reminding the visitor that the world of theatre and

Photo credit: Craig McClenaghan

The new Laager Theatre

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Project: Newtown

Photo credit: Amy Mania

The Majestic

fantasy is alive and well in Newtown! From behind the blank face-brick exterior, the dangling light bulbs with looping cables sparkle in the red foyer, the blue glass skylight casts curiously eerie shadows down the historic brick walls (deliberately left tatty and scarred), and the multi-coloured tiled floors of the actor’s bathrooms take a swing at the seriousness of reality... But through this whimsy, the building is also about a profound architectural respect, which is an idea that Mashabane Rose Associates (MRA) nurtures in almost everything we do… to breathe new life into an older structure, to step back and remind ourselves of its worth in Johannesburg’s broader narrative. The Laager Theatre is one of several Newtown building projects in which MRA has been involved. It is flanked by Newtown Junction, a large mixed-use development comprised of much-needed retail and commercial space; and The Majestic, a five-storey commercial building leased by Nedbank. The common denominator of all these projects is a celebration of the fragments of architectural heritage structures scattered across the precinct, including the old ‘Station Master’s House’ (located underneath the double decker highway) the ‘Potato Shed’ structure (which was carefully dismantled, restored and reassembled during construction of the development’s

four-level parking basement), the steel pedestrian bridge that links across to the upper floor of the Market Theatre, the historic single-storey façades of old Wolhuter Street (through which one now enters The Majestic’s main lobby), and the jewel in Newtown’s heritage crown, the ‘Edwardian Bath-House’, which is currently being converted into a sophisticated cocktail/ cigar bar, cheekily named ‘The Gentleman’s Arthouse.’ The restored steel pedestrian bridge is once more open to the public and provides access from the vibey, newly-opened eatery, ‘The Potato Shed’, to the upper-level lobby of the Market Theatre. This means that patrons can park their cars securely in the basement of Newtown Junction, emerge into the large open square, have dinner, walk over the bridge and watch a show. Atterbury Properties has been the pioneering developers in getting these large commercial projects off the ground, and Nedbank’s interest in heritage proved to be an irresistible hook. Consequently, within the space of five years, the area has transformed from a derelict yard of partially destroyed sheds and warehouses into a vibrant urban precinct that attracts and celebrates the same urban demographic that Newtown always has – a completely diverse one. Just in far bigger numbers.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: Architects for Newtown Junction: DHK, LPA and MRA Architects for The Majestic: MRA Interior Designers for The Potato Shed Eatery and The Gentleman’s Arthouse: Life Interiors Architects for City Lodge: Boogertman + Partners

MASHABANE ROSE ASSOCIATES T +27 011 486 1057 W www.mashabanerose.co.za

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Advertorial: Vital Engineering

A ‘vital’ service to industry When it comes to ensuring human resource safety in industrial and mining operations, there is no room for guesswork. Vital Engineering provides its customers with high-quality, hard-wearing products, and sound advice on choosing the right materials. As a manufacturer of gratings, stair treads and handrails since 1939, Vital Engineering and Angus McLeod know that when it comes to long-lasting performance, cutting corners is a short-term solution to a long-term safety and maintenance cycle cost for the end-user. Under the leadership of Managing Director, Dodds Pringle, the team at Vital Engineering is passionate about improving general safety awareness among its customers, and cautioning contractors and designers against making product choices that are ill-informed or solely price-based. ‘Because we feel so strongly about not compromising on quality, we always caution customers against bias towards certain suppliers based on a price-driven decision, and to be aware of unscrupulous practices in the industry,’ Pringle comments. ‘For Vital Engineering, it is all about safety, and providing the assurance that comes with a worldclass quality product.’ Vital Engineering, based in Boksburg, and with operations in Durban and Cape Town, manufactures a wide range of expanded metal products, non-slip floor gratings and walkways, safety handrails, and stair treads in a variety of materials, including galvanised steel, stainless steel, fibreglass and aluminium. ‘We place great emphasis on designing for safety, using only the highest grade steel, such as 350WA. We also pride ourselves on our innovation, continually introducing new products and finishes to market to suit individual design requirements,’ Pringle points out. ‘Design specifications and choice of material are critical factors for safety, ease of maintenance,

Dodds Pringle,

on-site installation MD of Vital Engineering costs, and aesthetic considerations. Our valueadd on local or international projects is unparalleled in terms of experience, management and execution, and constant communication between ourselves and our customers.’ Responding to the demand for ease of fitment and versatile materials that are designed for optimum safety, Vital Engineering has also introduced moulded fibreglass gratings to the market. This is a viable alternative to steel and offers many benefits, particularly for application in highly-corrosive conditions and harsh climates, epitomised by many African mining operations. Vital Engineering has been involved in a number of mining projects beyond South Africa’s borders, including in Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ghana, Burkino Faso, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Namibia and Botswana, to name but a few. The company has also been involved in supply to power plants, petrochemical plants, materials handling projects and process plants; as well as most facets of the civil and structural engineering industries in South Africa and further afield. An internationally EN-ISO 9000 design-rated and certificated South African manufacturer, Vital Engineering’s products are designed to comply with the most stringent occupational health and safety (OHS) standards. Strict material controls, coupled with extensive ongoing research and development, means that Vital Engineering can anticipate and meet the Vital Engineering exhibition stand at Electra Mining 2014 with a variety of products on show.

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Advertorial: Vital Engineering

needs of its customers; and provide them with costeffective high-performance product offerings and system solutions to meet specific requirements, while ensuring utmost user safety.

Variety and versatility are ‘vital’

The name Vital Engineering has become synonymous with high standards in the manufacturing and supply of gratings, stair treads, pressed floors and safety handrails. The company prides itself on the variety and versatility of its product range – providing customers with an extensive range of material and design options. With the backing of 75 years of invested research, Vital Engineering and Angus McLeod has developed a proven range of quality products that take into consideration safety, ease of installation, performance, cost and aesthetics. ‘The manufacture of all our gratings, stair treads, handrails and our new expanded metal products is strictly controlled. The use of 350WA material, controlled resins for our fibreglass products, and certificated stainless steels and aluminium, means that we are able to offer lighter, higher quality, and more cost-effective solutions to our customers,’ Pringle maintains. Under the well-known brand name Vitagrid, Vital Engineering manufactures non-slip gratings and walkways using the highest grade steels and aluminium. The company also specialises in fibreglass products under the Vitaglass name that, according to Pringle, are finding wide acceptance in typically high-corrosion areas. ‘We recently introduced moulded fibreglass gratings to the market, and are seeing many mining and mining contracting companies, as well as customers operating in coastal regions, specifying Vitaglass for their floor gratings,’ says Pringle. ‘Fibreglass is anticorrosive, fire-retardant, non-conductive, non-slip and virtually maintenance free,’ he adds. ‘Our Vitaglass products, including fibreglass stair treads, gratings and handrails, are gaining wide acceptance because of their long-term cost saving implications and improved safety,’ adds Chris Spacey, Director at Vital Engineering and Angus McLeod. When it comes to safety handrails, Vital Engineering has developed a variety of safety, industrial and architectural systems approved to stringent international standards. The Maclock handrail and balustrade systems are carefully designed according to loading criteria. Vital Engineering’s safety handrail systems have been used in several local and international power generation, petrochemical and mining projects, among others. ‘To meet customer needs and find appropriate solutions, Vital Engineering’s range of high-quality GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) gratings, trench covers, screenings and wash bay platforms were designed in response to the demand for non-corrosive materials,

Above: Vital Engineering stair tread and gratings Below right: Vital Engineering’s fibreglass gratings Below left: Vital Engineering’s Vitex product

especially from customers in coastal areas. These products offer a compelling alternative to mild steel/galvanised options and are furthermore hardwearing, offering a long lifespan. In addition, they are maintenance-free and are not at risk of theft,’ Spacey explains. Additionally, these non-slip GRP trench covers and screenings are half the weight of steel, offering ease of installation. They are widely used in general construction, road traffic areas, spray booth bays, food and beverage plants, materials handling plants and electricity sub-stations, among others. ‘We are constantly designing and manufacturing new products for challenging environments, identifying the most cost-effective and practical solutions for our customers in developing industrialised countries, with safety as our number one consideration,’ Pringle concludes.

VITAL ENGINEERING T +27 011 898 8500 E sales@gratings.co.za W www.vitagrid.com

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Project: House Roodt

Photo credit: Anton Roodt

House Roodt – 2015 When the notions of dream and house are brought together the dangerous condition of the dream house arises. ‘The dream house,’ says Bachelard, ‘must… satisfy both pride and reason, two irreconcilable terms.’ One might even say two inescapable terms, the extent of the hubris and the rigor of the reason only tempered by imagination and the policies of financial institutions. Is the dream house a concept akin to the idea of utopia? It is not really a specific place, but rather ideal or perfect in all respects; at least insofar as it exists in the mind’s eye of the beholder. For the dreamer, this perceived perfection most often resides in the physical dimension of space rather than the abstract qualities so intrinsically part of a place. Building a house involves leaps of faith that leaves one perpetually breathless… The making of this house has been long and difficult. To reimagine your and your family’s rituals in

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a new spatial environment requires that the house be designed from the inside out. These spatial relationships find some embodiment in the plan and the sections. Once the house is completed, the architect departs and you become, as Clare Cooper Marcus describes in HOUSE AS A MIRROR OF SELF, ‘part of the power struggles in making a home together with a partner; territory, control, and privacy at home; selfimage and location; disruptions in the bonding with home; and beyond the “house’s ego” to the call of the soul’.

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Project: House Roodt

We have gone through possibly six completely conceived and, in some cases, even fullydocumented designs for our home and, in most cases, on different sites, too. During the process you are wracked by insecurities – financial and otherwise – and beset by procrastination and indecisiveness because your ego is determined to design along with you. In addition to the ego, there is the matter of accommodating secret passions in a new home. I found some solace in a memoir by Rod Stewart who had this to say about his habit: ‘You know the dangers, but you think you’ll just have a little dabble, just to find out what it feels like… The next thing you know, your so-called little dabble has turned into a raging allconsuming habit… It can get hold of a person. It can take over your life…’ Surprisingly, Rod said this in relation to collecting art. I mention this, specifically, as making art part of the design of a building is more difficult than one may think. Years ago, a friend and art dealer, Dawid Ras, remarked that it always surprises him that people seldom consider the relevance of their art when they become involved in designing a house. So, in an abstract sense, the idea of a series of box-like spaces, dark outside and light on the inside, informed my early ideas. In its realised version, the distinction between inside and outside is less definite, with darker tonalities on the outside that assist in

merging the structure with the landscape, and lighter tonalities on the inside that complement the sketches and paintings and aid the distribution of filtered sunlight. In terms of the design process, many pen and pencil sketches were made. Working with Christoff Steyn, part of our office team, the design was further elaborated with SketchUp. We could now model many other aspects, such as how paintings would fit onto walls and the position of a sculpture or two; also, more practical elements, such as the azimuth and altitude of the sun during the different seasons and even specific dates throughout the year. I can elaborate on practical concerns, such as the measures implemented to ward of the looming crises of water and energy, but those are probably well-entrenched in the design sensibilities of the day. Ultimately, a house is something else. As architects, we are ostensibly concerned with space and place, but home – as is firmly stated in most quotes – is people, not a place. Yet, according to Bachelard, it is a place that ‘allows one to dream in peace.’

References: Bachelard, G. 1969. THE POETICS OF SPACE. Boston: Beacon Press; Marcus, C.C. 2006. HOUSE AS MIRROR OF SELF: EXPLORING THE DEEPER MEANING OF HOME. Maine: Nicolas-Hays; Stewart, R. 2012. ROD – THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY. London: Crown Archetype.

ROODT ARCHITECTS T +27 051 406 2100 E info@roodtarchitects.co.za W www.roodtarchitects.co.za

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Advertorial: Mitek

Photo credit: MiTek

Ultra-Span (LGS) project - Mediclinic Midstream

A profile of success The successful construction of any building, commercial or residential, relies on the quality of its essential elements – foundations, walls, wiring, plumbing, and, of course, the roof. MiTek Industries South Africa (Pty) Ltd is a full system supplier to the prefabricated timber and steel roof truss industry. About Mitek

MiTek Industries South Africa is a division of the St Louis, Missouri-based international MiTek group that is owned by legendary investor, Warren Buffet, and is part of the international conglomerate, Berkshire Hathaway Incorporated. For over forty years, the vast majority of South African roofs have used the tried and tested system of prefabricated timber roof trusses, manufactured with the company’s renowned MiTek M20 nail plate connectors. MiTek is the leading roof truss system supplier in South Africa, serving over 160 roof truss manufacturers (fabricators) country wide, and over 800 hardware and DIY markets that are supplied with all eCo builder’s products featured in its comprehensive brochure. This range contains the most complete timber to timber, timber to steel, and timber to masonry, as well as steel to steel, and steel to masonry connection brackets. Additionally, the marketing arm of the company meets with building professionals (architects, quantity surveyors, engineers and property developers) to

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provide them with feasibility design drawings, bill of quantities, full documentation and competitive prices. MiTek South Africa is headquartered in Midrand, Gauteng. From this location it manufactures connector plates, builder’s products and roll-form products for the South African market, as well as exporting to over 20 African countries. A joint venture was set up in Kenya to distribute to East African countries. The company’s offices in Midrand, Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth are strategically located to serve customers and house its customer support teams, design services and machinery specialists.

Solutions for systems

The recently introduced Ultra-Span lightweight steel roof truss, now offers South Africans remarkable versatility in the search for affordable roofing solutions. MiTek offers the combined expertise of GangNail, Hydro-Nail, eCo fasteners and the lightweight steel Ultra-Span roof truss system, as well as the best software design, detail and costing packages

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Advertorial: Mitek

available, providing the most comprehensive suite of programmes available internationally. A network of licensed prefabricated timber and steel roof truss fabricators across South Africa brings MiTek quality and technology to your doorstep, providing you with international levels of service and expertise locally, and offering and maintaining a sustainable, competitive advantage. ‘We are proud of our reputation as the best in the business – a reputation that is built on years of working closely with our customers,’ says Uwe Schlüter, the company’s marketing & business development manager.

The soft end

While one might be excused for thinking heavy metal and engineering hardware when considering Mitek’s market, one of the company’s strengths lies in the creation and evolution of custom design software. Indeed, software is at the heart of the MiTek’s product offering. The company’s software products drive the machinery used to manufacture building components, specify connectors or profiles in roof truss design, and provide design services with the competitive advantage to excel in component design. Over 105 software programmers work around the clock, enhancing, improving and modifying MiTek software. These programmers, based in the US, European, South African and Australian

Software packages designed and brought to the market by Mitek include: • Business management systems with costing, stock control and production management • Truss design • Trigonometry • Beam designs • Training • Computer draughting • Layouts • Bill of quantities • Manufacturing detailing • Erection and bracing detail systems In short, the company provides everything necessary, including manufacturing equipment, for the fabricator’s business. MiTek’s software is a complete package that includes MBA, a business application to run and control the production of roof structures, as well as graphical input, structural designs, drawing packages and a facility to quote on all materials and sundries. This provides fabricators with the means to accurately and timeously tender for contracts. All MiTek software systems are Windows based, easy to use, and give an immediate competitive advantage to customers that use these systems. Comprehensive SETA-approved training is provided on all MiTek’s modules.

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“

For over forty years, the vast majority of South African roofs have used the tried and tested system of prefabricated timber roof trusses, manufactured with the company’s renowned MiTek M20 nail plate connectors.

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offices, provide the most experienced expertise for any engineering solution, ensuring that MiTek customers stay at the leading edge of technological development.

Compliance to standards and quality

All products and material used in the construction of either timber or steel MiTek roof truss systems comply with the relevant local codes of practice and the relevant recommendations of the US, European and Australian Building Codes. MiTek is constantly seeking to improve its own existing high standards. Its staff represent the industry at SABS, SASFA, ECSA, ITC, and numerous other organisations, placing a high priority on seeking more effective methodologies. It is also the only system supplier that manufactures its own nail plates and other truss hardware to hold an ISO 9001:2000 certification. Additionally, MiTek Industries South Africa is the proud recipient of Dekra’s international recognition for commitment to excellence.

Builders’ hardware and the role of R&D

An essential component of completed timber or steel roof structures is builder’s hardware. MiTek’s R&D department is part of an international R&D group that meets regularly to discuss new products, enhancements to existing products, and trends in the roofing business with regard to new and existing products. This has led to the creation of many specially-designed and patented brackets for any type of timber to timber or steel connection. All MiTek and eCo fasteners have been tested and approved by independent testing authorities for performance and load capacities, which is the building owner’s guarantee of long-term stability for roof structures. MiTek leads the world in R&D. Full-scale load testing on truss designs is carried out to better understand truss behaviour and calibration of designs against allowable stress and limit state design codes. It is noteworthy that MiTek South Africa has the only trusstesting rig in southern Africa.

MITEK INDUSTRIES SA (PTY) LTD T +27 011 237 8700 E uwe.schluter@mitek.co.za W www.mitek.co.za

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Product Catalogue: Mitek

Timber Truss

Prefabricated timber roof trusses

STRONG TIMBER CONNECTION MiTek Industries* is the leading Roof Truss System supplier in South Africa and the world. No need to go anywhere else! We are the world leaders in the industry, with 9 Engineers totalling 170 years’ experience (combined), we are also ISO 9001 accredited and backed with an international P.I.Insurance. We also offer full size prototype truss testing as an alternative truss design method. With a network of over 190 licensed truss manufacturers utilizing MiTek’s state-ofthe-art software we can provide a competitive and economic solution to even the most complex of roofs. With all our products and designs warranted, we offer total peace of mind.

creating the advantage

Inventors of the Nail-Plate System (Gang-Nail) 1956. MiTek Park,754 16th Road, Randjespark, Ext. 34, Halfway House,1685. Midrand (Head Office) Tel: + 27(0) 11 237 8700 Cape Town Tel: 021 905 0244 • Durban Tel: 031 700 6332 • Port Elizabeth Tel: 041 581 7525 email: marketing@mitek.co.za • www.mii.com/southafrica *MiTek

Industries South Africa (Pty)Ltd, a division of the worldwide MiTek Group.

eCo Fastener

MAKING THE RIGHT MAKING THE CONNECTION. RIGHT CONNECTION eCo Fasteners® are timber and steel fastening devices that provide strong and rigid connections to any building structure in which they are applied. The use of the appropriate fastener in the correct manner not only ensures strong connections, but also the structural integrity of the building. 100% compatible with Ulta-Span®, our light guage steel truss system, eCo Fasteners® are uniquely designed, durable, easy to use, load tested and marked for their respective applications. Thereby providing full compliance with CPA requirements. Accompanied by technical specifications and backup support from our dedicated teams of experienced professional engineers, DIY users and building professionals will find these fasteners offer multiple solutions and produce the safest connections of any building system.

creating the advantage

eCo Fasteners® are setting the benchmark in timber and steel construction. MiTek Park,754 16th Road, Randjespark, Ext. 34, Halfway House,1685. Midrand (Head Office) Tel: + 27(0) 11 237 8700 • Cape Town Tel: 021 905 0244 • Durban Tel: 031 700 6332 • Port Elizabeth Tel: 041 581 7525 email: marketing@mitek.co.za • www.mii.com/southafrica *MiTek

Industries South Africa (Pty)Ltd, a division of the worldwide MiTek Group.

Ultra-Span (LGS) Truss

LIGHT GAUGE STEEL The low mass per m2 (between 2-10kg) of this roofing system ensures both savings on the supporting structure as well as on transportation and erection costs whilst also being vermin proof and non-combustible. Large sections of the roof can simply be pre-assembled on the ground and hoisted into position on the walls – making this one of the most viable systems with a large range of applications up to a clear span of 40m. Supported through a substantial network of licensed truss suppliers, Ultra-Span is equally ideal for all local and export applications where it can be pre-assembled or site assembled.

creating the advantage

The non-combustible solution. MiTek Park,754 16th Road, Randjespark, Ext. 34, Halfway House,1685. Midrand (Head Office) Tel: + 27(0) 11 237 8700 Cape Town Tel: 021 905 0244 • Durban Tel: 031 700 6332 • Port Elizabeth Tel: 041 581 7525 email: marketing@mitek.co.za • www.mii.com/southafrica *MiTek

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Industries South Africa (Pty)Ltd, a division of the worldwide MiTek Group.

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Product Catalogue: Mitek

eCo Purlin

eCo Purlin is a steel hat channel purlin for use on both timber and steel trusses. With dimensions of 76mm x 40mm, it is manufactured from galvanized steel. The advantages are numerous, easy splicing, compact stacking and due to itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s light weight nature it is economical to transport and easy to handle on site.

eCo Purlin

eCo Batten

eCo Batten is a steel hat channel batten for use on both timber and steel trusses. With dimensions of 38mm x 19mm it is manufactured from galvanized steel. The advantages are numerous, easy splicing, easy to handle e.g. a bundle of 10 battens is the same size as one 38x38mm timber batten.

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Product Catalogue: Mitek

eCo Gryptite Site Plates

eCo Gryptite connector plates are designed for the production of on-site timber to timber connections. The application of the plate is simple and requires no more skill than the positioning of the plate and hammering home of the teeth. Our CAD facility provides an accurate design for the use of the eCo Gryptite plate in the use of manufacturing timber trusses. eCo Gryptite plates are suitable for a wide range of applications in timber joinery such as site splicing. *Please note that an engineered deign is required to manufacture timber trusses with eCo Gryptite plates.

eCo Bracing Straps

eCo Bracing Straps is a perforated galvanized steel strip 25 x 1.0mm which is used extensively for cross bracing frames or bracing roof trusses during erection. The staggered perforations simplify fixing and prevents splitting of the timber while nailing. Tensioners are used with bracing strap to achieve maximum tension after fixing. They are easily fitted and require no special tools.

eCo Wall Tie

Description: TheMiTek Wall Tie is holding down components devised to anchor timber roof trusses, rafters, beams or steel roof trusses to the wall Features: Pre-Cut lengths suitable for all types of roof covering Pre-Punched nail/ screw holes Slit end for easy splaying into brickwork For use in solid walls, cavity walls and block construction Speciﬁcations:

Guide for roof anchorage selection Light roofs, metal sheeting, metal tiles, etc

MiTek Wall Tie

Item Code

Quantity/Unit

32 x 1.2 x 900

EMWT32X1.2-900

Bundle of 10

Span greater than 7m & less than 14m

32 x 1.2 x 1200

EMWT32X1.2-1200

Bundle of 10

Span greater than 14m

32 x 1.6 x 1200

EMWT32X1.6-1200

Bundle of 10

Heavy roofs, concrete, clay tiles or slate

32 x 1.2 x 900

EMWT32X1.2-900

Bundle of 10

Roof slopes <15

Roof slopes = 15

Span less than 5m

Span less than 7m

Span greater than 5m & less than 10m Span greater than 10m

32 x 1.2 x 18m

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EMHDS32X1.2-18m

18m Roll

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Product Catalogue: Mitek

LIGHT GAUGE STEEL low mass per m2 (between 2-10kg) of this roofing system ensures both savings MITEK INDUSTRIESThe SOUTH AFRICA on the supporting structure as well as on transportation and erection costs whilst also being vermin proof and non-combustible. Ext. 34, MiTek Park,754 16th Road, Randjespark, Large sections of the roof can simply be pre-assembled on the ground and hoisted Halfway House,1685. into position on the walls – making this one of the most viable systems with a large range of applications up to a clear span of 40m. Midrand (Head Ofﬁ ce) T +27 011 237 8700 Supported substantial network of licensed truss suppliers, Ultra-Span is Cape Town T +27 021through 905a 0244 equally ideal for all local and export applications where it can be pre-assembled or Durban T +27 031 700 6332 site assembled. Port Elizabeth T +27 041 581 7525 The non-combustible solution. E marketing@mitek.co.za W www.mii.com/southafrica MiTek Park,754 16th Road, Randjespark, Ext. 34, Halfway House,1685. Midrand (Head Office) Tel: + 27(0) 11 237 8700

creating the advantage

Cape Town Tel: 021 905 0244 • Durban Tel: 031 700 6332 • Port Elizabeth Tel: 041 581 7525 email: marketing@mitek.co.za • www.mii.com/southafrica

*MiTek Industries South Africa (Pty)Ltd, a division of theof worldwide MiTek Group. *MiTek Industries South Africa (Pty)Ltd, a division the worldwide MiTek Group.

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Project: Edge Restaurant

FSIA Award for Architecture 2015 The Edge Restaurant, Naval Hill, Franklin Nature Reserve in Bloemfontein receives the FSIA Award for Architecture 2015 from the Free State Institute of Architects. Reinier Brรถnn Architects & Associates was commissioned by the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality to design a fine dining restaurant on Naval Hill in the Franklin Nature Reserve in Bloemfontein. This nature reserve is only one of two in the world that is situated within a city. The building is strategically positioned to create a platform from where the city could be viewed and appreciated. The building also had to give recognition to the Nelson Mandela statue, which is placed in the immediate vicinity, also overlooking the city. The one main axis of the cardo decumanus (where two important axis cross) is Church street. This new restaurant is aligned with this prominent street, and creates opportunities for visitors to enjoy spectacular views of the city centre of Bloemfontein. One prominent vista is that of Waaihoek, towards the east of the CBD, where the ANC was founded in 1912. The building serves an important role from a tourism point of view, where people can meet, not only to enjoy what the restaurant has to offer, but to serve as a hub to learn more about the history and culture of Bloemfontein. The biggest testimony for the professional team is the fact that the ANC and the Mangaung Metropolitan Council use this venue for all their prominent functions as a marketing tool for Bloemfontein.

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Project: Edge Restaurant

The immediate impact of the design lies in its relationship to the koppie, perched delicately on its edge overlooking the city. It mediates in a thoughtful way between the natural environment and the manmade – irregular tree-like supports at basement level contrast with the Cartesian geometry of the glass box at ground level and, in turn, with the sensuous curves of the terrace and roof. Organic and industrial materials; thick and thin are boldly juxtaposed. The building is explicitly understated so as not to compete with the adjoining Mandela statue that

occupies the crest of the hill while creating a subtle connection to Church Street axis and the city directly below. According to the panel of adjudicators for the FSIA Award for Architecture 2015, Reinier Brönn Architects & Associates have cleverly manipulated scale to enhance the experience of the site and the spectacular views. Earth-hugging forms and materials – in the form of a carefully articulated stone wall – at the entrance give way to the tall glazed façade overhanging the koppie.

Architect: Reinier Brönn Architects & Associates CC Engineer: MPS Consulting Engineers Quantity Surveyor: Rubiquant Quantity Surveyors Contractor: David Diva Construction

REINIER BRÖNN ARCHITECTS & ASSOCIATES T +27 051 436 1013 E arc@reinierbronn.co.za W www.reinierbronn.co.za

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CAPE PATIO BLINDS Relief from the SUN WIND and RAIN

Stylish and Elegant Create a Room in a Day Roll Up Roll Down Resturant and Domestic SMS “QUOTE 5” OR EMAIL GARY for a free quote in your area Tel: 021 829 7299 Cell: 083 95 66 878 Email: patioblinds@gmail.com www.capepatioblinds.co.za

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Advertorial: BASF

Latest in waterproofing for Steyn City Clubhouse The waterproofing at the newly-built Steyn City Clubhouse, north of Fourways in Johannesburg, was a first in green roof waterproofing for Master Builders Solutions® by BASF from its range of synthetic membranes. The complete and landscaped Clubhouse roof was waterproofed using BASF’s MasterSeal® TPO synthetic membranes, an enormous project that required great skill from the applicator and specialised products from BASF Construction Chemicals. MasterSeal® 750TPE is a synthetic liner of TPO modified polyolefin, in two-colour versions (sand, grey/black) obtained by co-extrusion that allows it to be produced in a single layer, a liner with different physical-chemical properties on the two sides. It has a polyester mesh reinforcement inserted as a dimensional stabiliser. The upper sand grey layer is characterised by extremely high resistance to weathering and ultraviolet rays, whereas the lower black layer is resistant to puncturing. These qualities enable BASF to offer a product warranty of 10 years, with a life expectancy of over 25 years. Steyn City Clubhouse’s distinctive landscaped roof required 9 000m² of waterproofing. The project began in September 2012 and was completed a year later in September 2013. BASF, together with waterproofing consultant for Steyn City, Alan Gatley, and Storm Waterproofing as the applicator, ensured the successful completion of this complex project. MasterSeal® TPO synthetic membranes can also be applied to: • Exposed roofing laid loose or fully bonded • Landscaped areas and roof gardens • Mechanical fixing on an incompatible substrate

• Loose laid or fully adhered on insulation boards • Loose laid or fully adhered on traditional reinforced-concrete slabs • Underground structures and potable water structures, to name a few. Some advantages of MasterSeal® TPO synthetic membranes: • Superior mechanical characteristics – extremely high resistance to weathering and ultra violet rays • High mechanical properties and resistance to puncturing • Resistance to root penetration • Resistance to wind stress • Non-toxic and good resistance to hydrocarbons • High environmental capability • Product tolerates pressure testing of joints if it is double welded. Master Builders Solutions’ experts combine their global and local expertise to meet market needs, and they recommend reliable and approved professional applicators to ensure successful completion of jobs. To meet high-performance requirements, BASF products are designed and certified for the specific intended use. Master Builders Solutions’ portfolio consists of concrete admixtures, chemical solutions for underground construction, waterproofing and sealants, concrete repair and protection, performance grouts and performance flooring.

BASF CONSTRUCTION CHEMICALS (PTY) LTD T +27 011 203 2405 W www.master-builders-solutions.basf.co.za

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Project: PPC’s residential development partnerships

A partnership approach With the residential housing market showing signs of positive recovery since the beginning of 2015, new housing developments across various market segments are also seeing an increased focus on quality. And, because the quality of workmanship is directly linked to the correct use of quality materials, PPC’s value-adding technical support is proving critical in ensuring efficient, effective and sustainable cement and concrete usage in the high-value, affordable and RDP housing categories. Balwin Properties: Luxury residential housing developments

Specialist luxury townhouse developer, Balwin Properties, has been partnering with PPC for more than two years. ‘Because each of our developments is tailor-made to meet our customers’ needs, as well as improve their standard of living and lifestyle, we consider every aspect of our final product at conception, including the materials we use,’ explains Ulrich Gschnaidtner, Chief Projects Officer: Balwin Properties. ‘Even though cement only comprises an average of 10% of the materials used on this type of project, we wanted to use a premium product. As such, we explored alternatives to the 32.5 grade.’

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After a number of product trials and demonstrations, Balwin switched to PPC’s Surebuild 42.5 – and has been using the product exclusively ever since. The product has been used on a number projects this year, including at Westlake (Modderfontein), the Cambridge (Bryanston), the Whiskin (Kyalami), Kyalami Hills (Midrand), and Stanley Park and Balboa Park in Oakdene, among others. ‘Because the sites are in different areas and have different aggregates, our point of departure on all Balwin projects is to collect samples, take them back to our lab, and develop a specific mix design that is site-specific,’ explains Rajesh Harripersadh, PPC Key Accounts Manager. ‘This ensures that the cement and concrete used are suited for each development’s individual requirements.’ PPC also works with brick suppliers to test the bricks being used to determine the optimal mortar and plaster mix.

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Project: PPC’s residential development partnerships

Harripersadh adds that testing and ongoing technical support is part of PPC’s partnership approach – focused on adding value and delivering on the company’s promise of ‘Our strength. Your vision’. ‘By making our technical expertise available on this type of development and using this to enhance product capabilities, we’re able to assist Balwin to create residential properties that it – and the homeowners who live in these townhouses – can be proud of.’

Calgro M3

During the last 18 years, Calgro M3 has carved out a niche for itself in the integrated housing development space. ‘Our projects typically consist of a combination of RDP and affordable or bonded housing – as is the case in Fleurhof (Florida) and Jabulani (Soweto),’ explains Bryan Blieden, Operations Director: Calgro. The company’s approach actively challenges many of the preconceptions around quality and delivery in this space, as seen through the use of PPC’s Surebuild 42.5 for over five years now. ‘Technical assistance in terms of optimal mix design development has proved critical in ensuring Calgro is able to maintain quality despite the size of its developments and the number of units under construction,’ explains Harripersadh. ‘Because our cement is used to create the foundation of the houses and housing complexes, it’s imperative that we’re part of the planning process from the very beginning. Our long-standing partnership means that we’re also on the lookout for new sources of value for Calgro and assist them to maximise their economies of scale. To this end, we also supply them with readymix through our subsidiary, Pronto.’ Calgro’s Fleurhof Extension 2 is one of the company’s flagship developments located in the south west of Johannesburg, and will be one of the largest integrated housing developments in Gauteng comprising 9 600 units when finished. The project is already 50% underway and due for completion in late 2017/early 2018. ‘We’re excited to be part of the Fleurhof development and working with Calgro on this and other initiatives to meet pressing housing needs while working to the highest standards,’ says Harripersadh. ‘By creating a supply chain built on quality, we’ll be better able to collectively ensure that these homes serve these families and their children well into the future.’

PPC @PPCisCement www.facebook.com/PPC.Cement W www.ppc.co.za

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Editorial: ITC-SA

The role of ITC-SA The vision of The Institute for Timber Construction South Africa (ITC-SA) is to create and maintain the highest standards in the engineered timber construction industry. The mission of the ITC-SA is to uplift through – its members – the standards in all aspects of engineered timber construction in the building industry, for the benefit of the consumer. It does this by monitoring membership, continuously improving standards, promoting and marketing engineered timber structures, and overseeing the training and development of members.

Service Offerings

• Ensure South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) professional recognition for ITC-SA members, and developing criteria that will enable professional registration. • Develop criteria that will guide professional registration through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), and which will be applicable to members that have not had the benefit of formal and recognised tertiary education. • Develop the Continues Professional Training (CPD) requirements that will need to be complied with for members to maintain their professional status. • Continuously liaise with SAQA on behalf of ITC-SA members to ensure compliance with all registration requirements and to contribute to the development of further training and development criteria for the ITC-SA membership. • Participate in industry established forums for the development of training material that will be SAQA accredited, available on the public domain, and will be used to up-skill specifically ITC-SA members. • Interact with other professional bodies as mentioned in the Construction Built Environment Act, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the role of the ITC-SA in supporting these professionals to comply with industry demands in engineered timber structures. • Interact with statutory bodies, such as the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) and the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), to create recognition for competence and service offerings of the ITC-SA membership and a demand for the services that may be rendered by its professional members. • Provide ITC-SA members with information regarding current, updated and new industry standards in the design, fabrication and erection of engineered timber structures. • On behalf of the ITC-SA members, negotiate

•

• •

training opportunities at FET Colleges for employees that need to do further training and development – specifically at FET Colleges. Through the ITC-SA System Members and its international affiliation, review best international practice in the field of timber engineering either from international sources or by research to develop reliable codes of practice and material specifications that will guide timber engineering in South Africa. Through the ITC-SA Technical Engineering Advisory Committee (TEAC), research and update the bracing and connection rules for timber engineering and publish erectors and designers handbooks to disseminate the information to the ITC-SA members and industry users in the market place. Arrange awareness seminars on erection and bracing procedures to educate engineers, architects, quantity surveyors, clerks of works, building inspectors, builders and carpenters. Encourage the removal of barriers for the acceptance of timber structures by local authorities, government agencies, lending institutions and professional groups. Work with the timber industry to establish the availability of appropriate grades, sizes and quality timber that will ensure safe and economical engineered timber structures. Provide the expertise to answer technical enquiries effectively and to investigate problem structures impartially, or to act on complaints from consumers in an unbiased and fair manner. To inspire confidence in engineered timber structures on the part of designers and specifiers To audit its members annually for awarding a Certificate of Competence to those that design, manufacture, supply and erect engineered timber structures.

Roll definition

• The ITC-SA ensures consumer protection in the use of timber engineered products in contracts entered into with the ITC-SA membership. • It regulates the professional conduct of its members, and applies proper sanctions where prima facie evidence confirms professional misconduct. • The Institute has full support of its members and recognition by industry role players in the development of industry norms and standards and in the mitigation of risks associated with the use of timber engineered products.

INSTITUTE FOR TIMBER CONSTRUCTION-SA T +27 011 974 1061 E enquiries@itc-sa.org W www.itc-sa.org

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Project: SARETEC

Coordinating space for optimal engagement and flow SARETEC’s world-class facility required specialist equipment to be housed in highly-specific design criteria areas. The South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre (SARETEC) is a first for the African continent and will play a leading role in training technicians for wind and solar farms. SARETEC will also provide much needed skills for other renewable energy sectors in the country. SARETEC has been largely funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) has been tasked to manage SARETEC during its initial establishment period. The world-class facility is located on Sacks Circle, bordering CPUT’s Bellville campus, and is accessible from both the street and directly from the University.

Design philosophy

Fervent design consultations with the users lead to a brief that required specialist equipment to be housed

in highly-specific design criteria areas. The main design challenge was coordinating usage of spaces for optimal engagement and flow.

Building tectonics

The building consists of three components – a turbine hall with workshop, a lecture/conferencing area, and an administrative/research section. The workshop areas are wrapped in a sculptural, industrial structure with metal cladding draped over a sloping concrete framework. The admin section is housed in a flat-roofed masonry building, which has been painted white. Linking the two opposing languages is an earth-red, wedge-shaped structure that houses the lecture and conference facilities. While the combination of contrasting forms, finishes, textures and colours successfully integrates the campus with the industrial element of Sacks Circle, the

Photo credits: Lambo Tsiliyiannis and Sally Tsiliyiannis

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Project: SARETEC

building is a refreshing break from the sand-coloured face brick aesthetic that dominates the campus. Budget and user requirements made it necessary for materials to be robust and cost effective; these include bagged, painted walls, polished concrete floors and exposed services. While the general level of finishes is stripped, key moments give the building a distinctive identity. A perforated yellow aluminium balustrade, and circular, floating illuminated panels provide warmth and character to lobby areas. Passive design played an important role in energy efficiency; mainly through orientation and other architectural features such as insulated roof areas, air-insulated double walls, and the inclusion of a ‘green screen’. Other energy saving devices including an ‘energy wheel’ ventilation system for heat recovery and eco air conditioning, water and energy saving fittings, and solar water heating were also employed. The flat roof forms a solar deck for the PV panels and small test wind turbines. The largest construction challenge was the timing and placement of the 50t Nordex Turbine donated to SARETEC, the size of which dictated it needed to be positioned on a finished suspended floor slab prior to the erection of columns and walls. The entire building was built around this key piece of equipment.

Director: Sally Tsiliyiannis Project Architect: Sarah Tröh and Ella Löb, GAPP Architects and Urban Designers 150 Longmarket Street, Cape Town, 8001

GAPP ARCHITECTS AND URBAN DESIGNERS T +27 021 424 2390 W www.gapp.net

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Advertorial: Weber Saint Gobain

University of Pretoria Chemisty Lab

Kuruman Casino Facade

The future of architectural cladding Described as the future of architectural cladding, Weber Saint-Gobain’s External Thermal Insulation Composite System, simply called ETICS, is applied to exterior walls and can be used to improve the energy efficiency of both new and existing buildings. The Weber Saint-Gobain’s External Thermal Insulation Composite System (ETICS) is fast gaining ground in the alternative building technology market, with architects and engineers recognising its long-term benefits and positive impact on the environment. By improving the thermal insulation of the building envelope, the total energy consumption of the building is reduced, as are heating and cooling costs. With the installation of ETICS, thermal losses can be reduced by up to 40%. ETICS assists in keeping ambient temperatures comfortable throughout the year. Buildings will be warm in winter and cool in summer. In addition to thermal comfort, the system offers acoustic benefits and allows for architectural freedom in the façade design. The system offers architects and structural engineers far more flexibility than traditional brick or off-shutter concrete solutions. It is a highly flexible system that is custom designed to each project, and is supported by a lightweight steel frame structure. Main contractors can now offer rapidly improved speeds of construction with the added benefit of providing developers with an eco-efficient cladding solution that provides significant energy savings. The

thermal conductivity R-value of ETICS is 3.76 onto lightweight steel framed structures, and an R-value of 2.20 with ETICS cladded onto brick work. The typical value for double brick and mortar structures R-value is 0.26. Weber Saint-Gobain is currently working with contractor, Ohlhorst, to provide over 30 000m2 of ETICS cladding being erected at the Mall of Africa in Waterfall City. This is the largest application of the ETICS system in South Africa to date. Recent projects completed using the Weber Saint-Gobain ETICS system include: • The striking Cell C building seen from the highway situated at the Buccleuch interchange • The SANRAL building at the Samrand off-ramp, N1 freeway • The Deloitte building in Pretoria • Sasol’s ChemCity in Sasolburg • Club 4 Shopping Centre • Semin in Sasolburg • Balfour Shopping Centre • Northgate Shopping Centre • Menlyn Shopping Centre • MTN Switch

WEBER ETICS Quinton Peters E Quinton.peters@saint-gobain.com C +27 083 680 8968 08600 WEBER (93237) SALES W www.weber-tylon.co.za

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DBN 75 Columbine Place Ring Road, Industrial Park Durban North t: +27 31 569 1125 f: +27 31 569 1128

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JHB Unit 14 Stani Industrial Park 1156 Sharland St. Driehoek Ext. 12 Germiston, Gauteng, t: +27 11 873 9886 f: +27 11 873 8887

PTA 354 Derdepoort Street Unit 3 / 75 Silverton Business Park, Silverton, Pretoria t: +27 12 804 0495 f: +27 12 804 9767

CPT Unit 11, North Park King Fisher Cres. Okavango Park, Brackenfell t: +27 21 982 2427 f: +27 21 982 8867

PE Unit 7, Jet Park Caravelle St. Walmer Port Elizabeth t: +27 41 581 8495 f: +27 41 581 3719

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Advertorial: Savignac

Operating with SAVI Aluminium window and door hardware supplied by an organisation focused on offering a personalised service. Proudly South African, and operating with SAVI, SAVIGNAC’S branches are located in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. The company has created the trademarks SAVI EURO, SAVI AFRIQ and SAVI BRANDS, which are distributed on the African continent. It is also the agent for SAVI QS. SAVIGNAC products carry a five year guarantee, are manufactured from accredited materials, sourced from reputable international factories, and are supplied to major aluminium window and door manufacturers. The company is a member of AAAMSA (the authority body in the South African aluminium industry) and SASSDA (the authority body in the South African stainless steel industry). It is also a level 8 B-BBEE contributor. Door locks continue to remain SAVIGNAC’s specialisation. The range includes latch locks, roller locks, dead locks and hook locks, available in various sizes and compatible with a variety of aluminium systems. SAVI locks are manufactured with three specific aims in mind: providing a robust product

to face the corrosive conditions that prevail along Africa’s coastline, providing a competitive option, and providing a product that is readily available throughout the SAVI network. SAVIGNAC has spent the last 15 years tracking trends in the aluminium industry to expand, improve and introduce its door lock range under the SAVI brand to fabricators with the intention of promoting it as a brand of choice. SAVIGNAC is committed to delivering a value-added product to professionals who will immediately experience SAVI locks as an attractive choice. The technical team provides on-site support should the need arise, and SAVIGNAC remains agile and dedicated to personalised attention. SAVIGNAC is confident that its pioneering and persistent efforts have made SAVI a brand to be reckoned with. SAVI stands alongside other reputable international lock brands as a proud solution of choice, as is evident by the increasing specification of SAVI in diverse commercial and residential projects across southern Africa.

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Advertorial: Alstone

Embracing green technology Notwithstanding the nature of challenges and competitions, Alstone has never deterred from its aim of delivering excellence and ensuring maximum worth for its customers.

Aluminum Composite Panels

A professional approach that transcends conventional boundaries to derive path-breaking concepts has given Alstone the unmatched distinction of being a pioneer and the largest manufacturer of Aluminum Composite Panels (ACP) in India. In the words of Napoleon Bonaparte, ‘The truest wisdom is a resolute determination’, and it is Alstone’s determination to excel every time, and to set exemplary production records. In 2004, when the enterprise first began the production of ACPs, its annual capacity stood at 0.5 million square meters per annum. Today, it has exceeded 2.5 million square meters. This soaring efficiency is the result of innovative methods, dedication, and technological brilliance of advanced ACP production lines. Being a client-centric undertaking, Alstone strictly adheres to the prevailing industrial quality norms, thereby earning ISO 9001-2008 accreditation. Away from branding strategies made in closed conference rooms, Alstone monitors the ongoing market trends and visualises upcoming trends to establish strong brand equity. Beauty attracts. Beauty distracts. Then again, beauty is also looked upon as something that ages with time, a temporary glory. But not when it comes to Alstone panels. This product is a beauty that is meant to last. For a long, long time! Available in an array of alluring colours inspired by nature, realistic shades, panel thickness and lengths, Alstone panels are the company’s highest and longest selling brand. Made using high-quality PVDF coating coupled with advanced technologies and strict quality control measures, these panels boast superior stain resistance quality, making them an ideal choice for façades and exteriors. Alstone allows customisation of colour and size, on special request, at prices that are competitive and quality that exudes international standards. Having earned consumers’ trust and respect for several years, Alstone cements this bonded further with a maximum industry allowable 10-year guarantee.

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Whether you are a budding contractor, a topnotch builder, a creative architect or an imaginative fabricator, Alstone is your trusted partner, when it comes to building exteriors and facades.

Why Alstone panels?

• 10 year warranty • PVDF coating • Attractive shades • Excellent colour uniformity • Superior flatness • High impact resistance • Robust yet light weight Ranges include classic solid colours, wooden, and granite and sparkling. Product specifications panel dimensions Most common size

1220mm x 3200mm

Standard sizes

1220mm x 2440mm

1220mm x 3050mm 1220mm x 3660mm 0.25mm*

Coil thickness 0.25mm and 0.50mm* Premium range* Panel thickness: most common

4mm*

Other thickness

1.5 to 5mm*

* Customised panels can be provided on special request Product tolerance Bow

Max 0.5%

Thickness

± 0.2mm

Squareness

Max +2.0mm

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Advertorial: Alstone

Alstone Hybrid Board

Alstone is the largest Wood Polymer Composite (WPC) boards manufacturer in India, and boasts world-class production lines that guarantee the high quality of our products. Thye Alstone Hybrid Board product collection, articulated from a green concept, is offered with an insightful understanding about its consumers’ requirements. Hybrid board offers the best substitution to natural wood with a contemporary range of green products suitable for all modern and classical constructions. Hybrid board has a surface beauty with added resistance against fire, termites and moisture, making it the perfect material for varying applications in flooring, siding, ceiling and roofing. Advantages include: light weight, no rot or mould, immune to moisture, flexible, fire-retardant, nailable, joinable, termite and borer proof, highly economical, and virtually maintenance free. These fantastic characteristics allow a highly diverse range of potential applications. Applications include furniture manufacturing, modular kitchens, household furniture, beds, doors, windows, office modular furniture, exhibition furniture, bathroom furniture, bio toilets, vertical garden base sheets, automobile floors, ambulance interiors, balustrades, base panel of LED signs, signage, security posts, flooring, ship interiors, façades, wall cladding, ceilings, railings, interior decorative partitions, cement slab rotations over 50 times, etc. The Alstone Research and Development team dedicates its work to a quest for new green products from green technology for green living. This results into an unprecedented and fabulous range of environmentally-friendly products. The Alstone Group is proud to present Alstone Hybrid Board as a demonstration of human respect for nature.

Comparison: WPC vs Wood Properties

WPC

Wood

Durability

••••

Density g/m

0.55 – 0.72

0.80 – 1.10

Recyclability

•••

Maintenance

••••

UV-resistance

••••

Waste disposal

••••

•••

Safety performance

•••

Resistance to moisture

••••

Resistance to pollution

••••

•••

Anti-acidity or basicity

•••

•

Mechanical performance

••••

Expansion & contraction

•••

Strength and anti-impact

•••

••

Flexibility or structural size

•••

Alstone advocates the business philosophy of ‘Excellence, Innovation, Integrity and Cooperation’.

ALSTONE SA/ASLAM CORPORATION T +27 031 579 1357 E info@alstonesa.com W www.alstonesa.com

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Green Building: Retrofitting green

Green makeover for a grand old dame By: Gareth Griffiths Pictures by Gareth Griffiths Imaging

Progressive retrofits demonstrate the way forward for existing buildings in the hospitality sector. Deep within the heart of Cape Town’s green suburb of Newlands, the iconic 207-room Vineyard Hotel (The Vineyard) has played host to many a guest over the past 120 years. However, since the establishment was acquired by the current owners, remarkable attention has been given to sustainability and ‘treading lightly on the earth’, prior to it becoming the norm and the advent of the local green building movement. The Vineyard has a long and illustrious history, although it is since the purchase of the hotel in the 1980s by current owners, the Petousis family, that this much attention was given to greening. Group sustainability manager, Chris van Zyl, has worked for the group for nearly 14 years. It has been his task to oversee a progressive but sustained rollout of sustainability measures on the property. A horticulturalist by formal training, he has been focusing on sustainability measures in both the exterior and interior environments of the hotel complex.

Harvesting low hanging ‘energy’ fruit to save electricity

In line with the established retrofit approach of beginning with the low hanging fruit, the complex’s energy usage was substantially lowered by replacing nearly 6 000 incandescent lights with LEDs.

LED lighting but maintaining the elegance

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Further energy usage reductions have also been achieved by installing new technology heat pumps and hot water storage. According to van Zyl the heat pumps are primarily there to generate hot water. ‘However, via heat exchangers, our centralised chiller also provides hot water, which will shortly be added to our hot water storage system. Six new heat pumps and our storage system supply hot water for 192 bedrooms, kitchens, laundry and conference centre.’ Sustainability expert, Andre Harms from Ecolution Consulting, is working with hotel management to guide the project and facilitate input from all hotel departments concerned. He also studies and advises about technologies, and reviews their design and installation when deemed appropriate. ‘The waste heat from the chiller will soon be recovered in part and fed into the hot water generation system. Besides a nominal amount of pump energy, this heat is ‘free’ but also saves on fan energy since less heat from the chiller needs to be exhausted to the atmosphere,’ Harms explains.

Renewable energy usage

The Vineyard now generates 20kW of renewable power via an array of eighty PV panels located on the roof of the gym and Splash Café. Van Zyl admits that the payback of this capital investment is: ‘Notably longer than the norm – close to ten years instead of

Eco-sensitive landscaping and herb cultivation.

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Green Building: Retrofitting green

The producing vineyard.

seven. This is due to the favourable electricity tariff enjoyed by the hotel, as well as its proximity to Table Mountain with the related weather system that the mountain generates.’ The PV system has already generated 48 846kWh of electrical electricity in the last 21 months. The 2015 winter has been about 15% more productive because of mild weather,’ he adds.

Accurate measurement and monitoring

The Vineyard has installed a Power-Star cloud-based system to monitor consumption as it is problematic to obtain accurate benchmark data because of the progressive nature of the retrofits. At present, this means that there are no plans for green building certification. Van Zyl adds that because of the phased-in nature of the retrofit across a widespread property, a Green Star or other similar international certification would be expensive and complex. Instead, the focus has been to forge ahead on implementation and making a difference. The Vineyard recently acquired a new property on an adjacent erf that will incorporate exclusive apartments. This new section of the hotel will receive a complete makeover and the intention is to design it so that it operates as sustainably as possible. ‘We are working with the Vineyard to further their journey towards sustainability. We are assessing the current building, systems and practices step by step,

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Special care for the water heritage.

as well as considering any renovations and additions that need to be environmentally responsible. This means touching on several points, systems, areas and operational aspects, and progress is incremental,’ Harms explains. ‘The most important role as a sustainability consultant for an operation such as The Vineyard is that we provide an effective, independent assessment and motivator towards the sustainability journey and goals. By independent, I mean removed from daily operations and existing relationships with service providers or suppliers,’ he adds. Indeed, the company that Harms has founded, Ecolution, has been involved in the highly-acclaimed Hotel Verde project, which not only earned his client a double Platinum LEED rating, but also a South African Green Star certification of 6 Stars for Existing Building Performance. The Hotel Verde project was recently also honoured by the Green Building Council of South Africa at the Green Star SA Leadership Awards 2015 held at the annual Green Building Convention in Cape Town. The project was named the winner in the Highest Rated Building Category for a period covering the 12 months since the 2014 Convention.

Water usage

The Vineyard is fortunate to be situated along the banks of Cape Town’s historical Liesbeek River.

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Above: The iconic fountain, itself recycled and reused from an earlier building that was demolished in the area. Above right: The pool and Splash Cafe – PV panels on roof.

Since before the times of legendary owners, Lady Anne Barnard and her husband Andrew (a colonial secretary) in the late 1700s, access to fresh water played an important role in supporting sustainable living at the halfway maritime station of the Cape. It was actually in Lady Ann Barnard’s time that while excavating for the initial house that they tapped into the very strong underground water supply that is still used today. Farms situated along the Liesbeek supplied vital animal and vegetable produce to visiting ships. When Lady Anne purchased the property there were 20 000 vines on the site. The original vines disappeared over time but 130 were recently replanted and now a small vineyard exists next to the river. With the assistance of five wine partners, three vintages of Sauvignon Blanc and Semilon blend have been produced as a small range of Vineyard Wines. Being relatively close to the mountain, the water is still pure having run off Table Mountain and through the Kirstenbosch Gardens. Hence, the property receives high-quality water from its borehole. The management of the water resource is of major importance to van Zyl and his staff, both for the garden, producing vegetables and herbs, and for refilling the hotel swimming pools. A horticulturalist himself, van Zyl tells us that the hotel is renowned for its expansive and water-wise indigenous gardens.

Contribution to sustainable tourism

The Hotel is rated by the Fair Trade Tourism (FTT) Council and staff are clearly excited by, and dedicated to, this concept. The FTT is the first African responsible tourism standard to be recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

Green measures implemented on site

The sustainable operations of the hotel are called the Living Green initiative and guests are regularly informed of both programmes and outcomes of this initiative. Composting waste has been carried out for a number of years via the bokashi system, with the compost being purchased back from composters and used in the vegetable and herb gardens. Surplus food from the kitchens, notably bread, is distributed to a network of feeding NGOs such as soup kitchens, and used cooking oils are collected and sent for conversion into bio-diesel.

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98% of waste generated is recycled on and off the property, and the hotel has won many awards as a result of these successes.

Walking the talk – social investment

The recent recognition of the socio economic importance of green building initiatives is enshrined in the Green Building Council’s SOCIO ECONOMIC CATEGORY PILOT TOOL. In the spirit of this major act of recognition, it is significant to mention the focus that The Vineyard has adopted on the broader community. The Kids of the Cape Fund programme assists some 15 upliftment projects that provide child refuge and care, education, skills-training, feeding, and tends to the disabled. Run by elected hotel volunteers, the fund also receives vital contributions from guests, which are matched by the owners. The Vineyard has demonstrated that it is possible to make great progress in green retrofitting of existing buildings on an independent basis and without ceremony – quietly making a positive impact in its own way. Indeed, ‘treading lightly on the earth’. References: W www.thevineyard.co.za W www.ecolution.co.za

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Advertorial: Mota-Engil Construction

Platinium Towers - Mozambique

Gilberto Rodrigues, CEO Mota-Engil Africa

Calueque Dam - Angola

Mota-Engil brings almost 70 years’ experience to South Africa While the Mota-Engil Group brings almost 70 years’ experience working in Africa, its recent entry into South Africa’s construction market is a new challenge for the company. However, work has already begun on some projects, one of which is the Central Square Project in Sandton, Johannesburg. The Mota-Engil Group has a business record of almost 70 years, marked by a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in a constant search for new horizons. A leader in the Portuguese construction sector, and one of the 30 largest construction groups in Europe, Mota-Engil is making its mark in 22 countries on three continents in three distinct geographical areas – Europe, Africa and Latin America. Mota-Engil asserts itself internationally by maintaining the same standards of strict compliance, quality and capacity for execution in each of its markets.

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Next year the company is celebrating its 70th anniversary – 70 years of experience working on the African continent across a diverse array of sectors, and 70 years of experience multiplied by its 14 000 employees across 11 countries. During its 70-year history, Mota-Engil has become a name that people associate with promises that are delivered, deadlines and budgets that are met, and the delivery of worldclass quality service. Mota-Engil has a strong belief in the development potential of economies in Africa and, according to

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Advertorial: Mota-Engil Construction

the company’s CEO, Gilberto Rodrigues, it was a strategic decision by the group to have an African entity – Mota-Engil Africa. ‘We adopted a strategy in 2012 to expand into Africa and now, with 11 countries in which we operate, we are looking to add a few more to bring the number to 15,’ he comments. Last year Mota-Engil Africa opened up several new markets on the continent and, currently, the company has a presence in Angola, Malawi, Rwanda, Mozambique, South Africa, Cape Verde, São Tomé and Príncipe, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana and Uganda. It provides a diversified portfolio of services in these countries, including engineering and construction (infrastructure such as roads, railways, bridges and dams, mining services, buildings, and real estate construction and services); logistics (including ports and other infrastructure management); and environment and services (including waste management and collection, and water treatment and distribution). The entity generated $1.403-million in turnover during 2014, and its order book was worth over $5.358-million, with Africa as the largest contributor. Among Mota-Engil Africa’s most noteworthy projects are the construction of Atlantic Towers in Angola in 2004, construction of the Armando Emilio Guebuza Bridge in Mozambique in 2006, the Nacala Railway Corridor project in Malawi in 2014, the New Tete bridge in Mozambique in 2015, the building of the Olympic Village and pool in Mozambique in 2012, and the design and rehabilitation of 236km of Mozambique’s roads in 2013. Among its current projects is the rehabilitation of Luanda Bay in Angola, the construction of the 21-storey Luanda Towers (also in Angola), the construction of Platinium Towers in Mozambique, and the construction of the Central Square Project in the heart of Sandton in South Africa. Mota-Engil Africa recently concluded a $1-billion railway project in Malawi for Vale seven months ahead of the scheduled completion date and within the anticipated cost frame. The company has also been prequalified for two railway lines in Mozambique. ‘We have the capacity and the know-how to execute massive contracts in different conditions and difficult conditions,’ Rodrigues explains. ‘With 68 years’ experience in 22 African countries, we’ve accumulated a lot of skill in these regions and have no problem making things happen where others find it too difficult.’ Mota-Engil has the ability to mobilise its own resources, including over 4 500 machines operating across Africa, which provides leverage that can be applied to problems other companies would shy away from.

However, the might of Mota-Engil’s logistics clout is only one reason for its sterling reputation. Fundamentally, Mota-Engil is a company that succeeds because its people intimately understand Africa. Rather than simply throwing equipment and manpower at a problem, the company looks at the problem in context, using local knowledge to achieve the most effective solution. While the Mota-Engil Group brings almost 70 years’ experience working in Africa, its recent entry into South Africa’s construction market is a new challenge for the company. However, it has already begun works on some projects, one of which is the Central Square Project – a development owned by Lushaka Investments that, together with Mercantile Bank, has intrusted Mota-Engil Construction South Africa (MECSA) to construct this mixed-use development worth in excess of R3-billion in the heart of Sandton. The Central Square development will have nearly 5 000m² of landscaped park that will be bordered by restaurants, boutique retail spanning two levels, and a 3 700m² health spa and gym. The park moves into the central atrium of the high-rise apartment block. There will be several rooftop gardens at various levels and, on the 20th floor, there will be a sky-deck exclusive to residence and offering a 25m-long swimming pool with cocktail bar facilities. Additionally, there are 12 levels comprising 14 spacious apartments on each floor with four levels of penthouses totaling 186 apartments, and four parking levels and two retail levels. This project marks the beginning for Mota-Engil Construction South Africa (MECSA). The expertise and the knowledge borne of nearly 70 years’ experience will be brought to every aspect of this project, ensuring that the stamp of a Mota-Engil product is seen across Sandton’s skyline. Mota-Engil Africa currently employs more than 14 000 local employees across the continent and, according to Rodrigues, the company has a sound policy for internal promotion. ‘This is part of our sustainability programme – to promote local resources and ensure the company is an African company and not a company working within Africa,’ he maintains. Mota-Engil Africa also believes in staff empowerment and skills transfer, and ensures its staff are wellequipped to manage the company as a world-class entity. ‘It is important maintain safety and quality, as well as a high level of satisfaction for our staff. Those are the main drivers that will definitely make this company different. We have the intrinsic skills needed to succeed,’ Rodrigues concludes. Mota-Engil Africa will continue to increase its activity across the continent in the years to come, with future plans including diversification into energy, heavy logistics, oil and gas, and agriculture.

MOTA-ENGIL CONSTRUCTION SOUTH AFRICA (MECSA) E info@africa.mota-engil.com W www.africa.mota-engil.com

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Geo-technical: Flood mitigation

Flooding keeps project professionals busy By: Gareth Griffiths Photos: Gareth Griffiths Imaging, Paul Bailey

The impact of climate change, say some, stopped play on famed scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive. One of the projected manifestations of global warming is climate change and the increasingly sporadic nature of extreme weather conditions. During the week of November 16, 2013, the Cape Town metropole experienced the perfect storm. An unseasonable south easterly wind turned black and most of the Cape metropole experienced stormy conditions with heavy downpours. Ravines and normally peaceful mountain gullies turned into raging torrents of water and huge sections of the Table Mountain range were stripped away by flood waters that carried a mass of topsoil and other debris to low lying areas. Consequently, a huge mudslide led to families from an exclusive apartment block along Chapman’s Peak Drive being evacuated, while many other beachfront homes and roads on the Atlantic Seaboard were also left damaged and submerged.

The impact of the storm on the built environment was enormous, leading to commentators postulating that it was a manifestation of things to come as global weather patterns start to experience extremes. While the short-term impact of the storm was devastating for those in the path of the mudslide, the iconic tourist route of Chapman’s Peak Drive was closed to traffic for approximately a month while a 400m section of the road was cleared of 1.5m of mud and rock – a virtual debris field according to eyewitness reports. There were also two sections where the road was completely undermined, including the entrance to Military Road above Flora Bay and around a storm water drain near No. 1 Chapman’s Peak Drive (No. 1 CPD). The roof parking of No. 1 CPD, which is at the same level as the road, was loaded close to capacity with mud and other debris that, according to eyewitnesses, had ‘flowed in like a river’. Photo credit: Gareth Griffiths Imaging

Photo credit: Paul Bailey / Melis du Plessis

Above: Leon Oosthuysen and Alexis van der Merwe Below: Aerial view of the landslide damage to the mountain above Chapman's Peak Drive, after the initial clearing of the roadway.

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Rocco Ring nets and support ropes in Debris Flow Fence no. 4. Looking up the gully towards the top fence in the southern gully, Debris Flow Fence no. 3.

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Geo-technical: Flood mitigation

After an initial clean up consisting of the removal of debris from the road, the west bound lane was reopened to traffic under single lane traffic conditions. In the meantime, the apartment building had been cleared of debris and was declared safe for rehabitation. The situation remained as such for over two years until December 2015. The section of the road is under the control of the Department of Transport and Public Works of the Western Cape Government. It is not part of the tolled section operated by Entilini. SA Building Review asked the Department to comment on the restoration. Earlier repairs and slope stabilisation had been carried out under Provincial Contract C799 and completed in March 2013 by civils contractor, Penny Farthing Engineering SA (Pty) Ltd. (Penny-Farthing). ‘Melis & Du Plessis Consulting Engineers (Pty) Limited (MDPCE) were appointed by the Transport Management Branch to undertake, under disaster management emergency measures, the responsibility of reopening Chapmans Peak Road in part or whole with a minimum delay,’ explains Neil Cocks, Engineer in the Directorate of Construction and Maintenance, Transport and Public Works, Western Cape Government. Since the damage in November 2013 occurred within the defects liability period of Contract C799, the sound decision was to involve Penny-Farthing as the contractor, which had in any case already become involved in the initial stages under the defects liability of the original contract. MDPCE evaluated the projected scope of work to effect repairs to the damaged infrastructure installed on the slope above No. 1 CPD, as well as the additional works required to address the rockfall and debris flow hazard presented after the incident. The projected final project build cost was R53.6million, illustrating the significant degree of damage caused and the seriousness of the hazard on the slope above the road. Permission to enter the property, and access to the affected area falling under Table Mountain National Park (TMNP), was granted by TMNP subject to IEM and various environmental compliances being completed.

Nature of the geotechnical work undertaken

The slip area above the road started at a considerable height and presented a substantial hazard to Chapman’s Peak Drive road users, especially during the rain. Loose debris and rocks were scattered above and around the gullies formed by the landslide. In addition to the road surface, existing catchment fences and gabion walls located close to the road that formed part of Contract C799 had to be repaired. Regarding the installation of additional/upgraded slope and rockfall protection measures on the slopes envisaged under the new contract, the engineers called on the expertise of Swiss firm, Geobrugg (www. geobrugg.com).This company specialises in high-tensile steel safety nets and meshes, and serviced the project from the office of a local Gauteng-based representative

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using products that had been designed and developed in the avalanche conditions of the Alps. The selection, alignment and positioning of these technical products are precise. Slope stabilisation and protection system designs require detailed site assessments, topographical surveys and custom slope stabilisation software systems. Slope stabilisation and protection works included: Stabilisation of the gulley heads: This involved the installation of 2 600m2 of the Tecco 80/4 steel mesh at the head of the gullies, supported with 2.5m to 5m long anchors, drilled and grouted in a 1.5m by 2m diamond pattern. The product is made from high-tensile wire that secures loose, blocky rocks, rock spurs, overhangs or unstable rock formations with highly irregular surface structures. Landslide fences: • Spider SL150 fences were used. The barriers equally absorb both high dynamic and high static pressures. Tests carried out in Europe prove that these barriers will hold up against several impact events involving complete filling, and are able to withstand impacts arising from single surge, which exceed natural landslides. • Four 3.5m high landslide fences, 30 to 64m in length were installed. The total length of the fences is 180m. Debris flow fences: • Five Rocco debris flow fences – three of in the southern gulley and two of in the northern gulley – were installed. The position and layout of the fences was finalised following a detailed topographical assessment of the gullies and possible quantities of debris that could be mobilised. • Debris flow barriers are designed for torrential flows. Two posts in the channel bed spread a high-tensile Rocco net, while wire rope anchors or flexible anchor heads ensure load transmission to the ground at the sides. • On Chapman’s Peak, the debris flow fences comprised Rocco ring nets reinforced by 22mm Geobinex support ropes running laterally across the fence and gulley. The support ropes and posts were supported by approximately 40 of wire rope anchors, with lengths of 6m to 14m drilled and grouted into the slope. The barrier absorbs highdynamic and static loads, allowing the net to retain its protective effect even if filled with debris. It is not readily appreciated by everyday motorists that a seemingly short distance of road could require an enormously technical and complex rehabilitation to allow its safe and secure re-opening to two-way traffic. At the time of writing, officials were getting ready to hand the section of road back to the authorities and the general public. SA Building Review thanks the officials concerned and their contractors for their prompt and helpful response to our questions. The Editor would like to thank site engineer, Alexis van der Merwe from Melis & Du Plessis, and Leon Oosthuysen, site agent for Penny-Farthing, for facilitating the site visit.

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Technical: Fire and water

The built environment – fragile in the face of fire By: Gareth Griffiths and Photos by Gareth Griffiths Imaging

The devastating fires that swept the southern areas of the Cape Peninsula early in March 2015 will be remembered by most for their destructive consequences.

Fires ravaged the natural and built environments of the South Peninsula during early March 2015.

The fires that consumed the southern areas of the Cape Peninsula eventually ended after raging for nearly a full week. What were the after effects of this natural tragedy on the local built environment as we know it? Cape Town is a thriving city but, aside from the week-long disruption of its economy in addition to the enormous costs of dealing with the fires, what of the ongoing risk to its economic life as a result of the fire? SA BUILDING REVIEW asked Councillor Brett Herron, Mayoral Committee Member: Transport for Cape Town, City of Cape Town, to comment on the hazard to the City’s fragile transport infrastructure in the affected south-lying areas. ‘For the City to undertake the post-fire mitigation works on areas under the management of Table Mountain National Park (TMNP), a number of meetings were held in March 2015 with their officials. This process culminated in National Parks formally accepting the report detailing the various activities that would be undertaken on their area of management. In addition, detailed method statements for each activity were submitted to National Parks for sign off prior to undertaking the work,’ Herron explains. ‘The work undertaken had nothing to do with regeneration of these roads or any other roads,’ he added, pointing out that despite the devastating fires, no existing roads were damaged or needed regeneration. Destruction of the natural and built environments, losses and death of animals and the loss of a fire fighting helicopter and its renowned pilot were part of

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the heavy price paid by citizens of the far south. ‘Work was done to protect property, roads and other infrastructure (ie the built environment) against the heightened threat of flood damage following the destruction of the mountain vegetation by the fires.’ With up to 100% of the vegetation destroyed by the fires, work undertaken involved mitigation measures to prevent the roads from being blocked by mud, loose rock and other debris flooding down in the stream beds of the mountain slopes as the clock ticked down to winter. Shortly after the fires, the City’s transport authority, Transport for Cape Town (TCT), consulted civil engineers with experience in flooding and mudflows. Their advice was that investigation and flood mitigation work would have to be urgently undertaken. In March, the City appointed an implementation team comprising senior internal officials and external civil engineering consultant, Aurecon. The project was funded from TCT’s annual budget for road maintenance and repairs. Over the ensuing 12 weeks the team focused on investigating the threats, designing mitigation works, and organising rollout on site.

Typical mitigation measures included:

• Lessening of the impact of, or preventing, mud, loose rock and debris violently flooding down the stream beds of the mountain slopes. • The prevention of landslips defined as localised catastrophic collapses of slope soils and rocks that can destroy a tarmacadam road. • Floodwater management – to ensure that floodwater and other debris that threatens to reach the built environment is safely conveyed via the storm water channels, intakes and pipes through that built environment to the sea. • Communication – with the objective of warning, informing and assisting private property owners about impending threats. • Preserving the environment, or what is left of it, to facilitate its restoration by taking measures to reduce topsoil loss on the slopes.

Targeted areas

According to the City, areas that received the most comprehensive attention included the slopes above Ou Kaapse Weg, Boyes Drive, the section of Chapman’s Peak Drive above Noordhoek, and Main Road from Muizenberg to Fish Hoek. This was regarded as essential work because these four roads presented

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Technical: Fire and water

the sole road accesses to the suburbs in the Southern Peninsula from across the mountains. Interventions consisted of: • Approximately 3 000m of silt curtains installed on the mountain slopes above Boyes Drive, Clovelly, Noordhaven and Belvedere. • Approximately 17 000 sandbags placed along Boyes Drive, Ou Kaapse Weg and at other strategic locations below the fire affected areas. The sandbags comprise temporary works to increase open storm water channel capacities, redirect possible overflows, create temporary weirs, and provide protection around vulnerable private property. • Six permanent gabion weirs constructed across high-risk streams, with two above Boyes Drive, two above Ou Kaapse Weg, and two near Zwaanswyk Road in Tokai. • Dragon’s teeth were installed at 11 different storm water catch-pits and mountainside storm water inlet structures across the Southern Peninsula. Numerous storm water headwalls and intakes were repaired and upgraded.

Ongoing checks and monitoring

TCT’s maintenance teams in the Southern Peninsula continually monitored the storm water inlets, culverts, catch pits, channels and pipe inlets for blockages and regular maintenance, blockage clearing, cleaning, and repairs were and are still done as necessary. Special attention was paid to taking preventative measures along Old Kaapse Weg, because of the fragility of this arterial route to the CBD and northerly lying suburbs. In addition, another large threat was posed along Boyes Drive with both the road and the houses below threated by unstable exposed slopes. ‘The preventative measures were implemented well before the winter rains. We did not experience any major problems along the roads under our management thanks to the preventative measures, and given that we have recorded below-average rainfall this season,’ Herron points out.

In the past there have been landslips on the slope immediately above Ou Kaapse Weg’s, lower north side, with debris blocking the road. Accordingly, several years ago, protective earth-retaining gabions and a custom drainage pipe were built immediately above and abutting the road to prevent further slips. The March 2015 fire damaged the custom drain pipe and demonstrated the gabions and other interventions to be inadequate and at risk of failure if heavy post-fire rains occurred. Therefore, extra reinforcing gabions were installed, together with the repair of the custom drain and the creation of improved storm water cut-off ditches above the gabions. Typical runoff diversion methods • Silt curtains – as installed on the mountain slopes of the fire area. These catch silt that is washed down by heavy rains. In the Southern Peninsula, the curtains are a 500mm wide geo-fabric strip fixed to short wooden posts hammered into the ground at set intervals. The geo-fabric material allows water to flow through it but traps the silt. These are left on the mountain until the area is revegetated and the soil sufficiently stabilised. • Sandbags – used mainly to increase the capacity of the existing drainage system. They can also be used to temporarily lead storm water away from areas that are threatened by flooding. • Gabions – wire cages are filled with stones. The size and extent of the stones are determined by the risk at hand. Gabions are commonly used within watercourses and other areas of high anticipated run-off to trap silt and debris. They are more substantial than silt curtains and sandbags for managing heavy flows from mountain catchments. Geotextiles are also often used in the construction of the gabions. • Dragon’s teeth – are traps to prevent rocks and sticks from entering the storm water system and blocking the pipes. Dragon’s teeth are made from vertical steel beams.

Above: ‘Teeth’ trap to prevent debris from entering storm water system. Left: Floodwater safely conveyed away from the road above Ou Kaapse Weg.

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Green Building: Sustainable materials

Sustainability options – is new better than old? Words and photographs by Gareth Griffiths

How sustainable is ‘green’? One of the early building blocks of construction was the rammed earth approach. Rammed earth is a simple concept where soil is compressed into blocks using a variety of methods. Since early times, various places of worship – temples, mosques, and churches – were built of mud bricks and rammed earth, most commonly in the Middle East. During the time of the Egyptian Pharaohs, cities were built with rammed earth. The Great Wall of China and buildings throughout the Far East were also built this way and eventually the ancient Romans and Phoenicians introduced the technology to the areas of Europe that they conquered and colonised. Another very common form of building that used the stone from the earth was limestone or sandstone, cut into blocks. This method is deeply ingrained into South Africa’s cultural heritage. In fact, the writer recently found evidence of this building style, which must go back to at least the 1700s, in the remote area of Agulhas in the Cape. This discovery in the far reaches of the national park actually inspired this story for SA BUILDING RIEVEW.

Remains of limestone/sandstone home in the Agulhas area.

Agulhas National Park these old buildings have become ruins and are simply reverting to the earth. According to information released by SANParks, the historic farms incorporated in ANP date to early European settlement in the 1740s. Limestone consists of calcareous sedimentary rocks that have been formed under pressure on the beds of lakes and the sea. This substrate contains a mix of shells, bones and other calcium-rich objects, and is called calcite (CaCO3). Over millions of years, layer after layer is built up, adding weight. The heat and pressure causes a chemical reaction at the bottom and the sediments turn into limestone.

Sustainability aspects of natural materials • The early building styles using rammed earth or blocks of stone have very low embodied energy or CO2.

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• Limestone building materials are evaluated by researchers at the University of Bath in the Inventory of Carbon and Energy 2.0 (ICE) as having an embodied energy (EE) of 0.85MJ/kg when compared with the general (common) brick, which contains 3MJ/kg. Of course, the common brick may well offer a much longer life in service without energy-consuming maintenance and repair. • Rammed soil has an EE of 0.45MJ/kg – the lowest of all. The 21st century building block landscape is dominated by various forms of brick – natural, hybrid, baked, unbaked and cementitious. Clay brick manufacturers present a case for clay bricks as providing the lower total (embodied and heating and cooling energy emissions) greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, comparable or lower than insulated timber frame with weatherboard walling over a 50-year lifecycle. Clay brick manufacturers point to the fact that their processes currently use almost 70% less energy to make bricks compared to energy used in 1970. More than 80% of brick kilns are fired with natural gas, and many facilities use fuels from bio-based materials from other applications, such as methane gas and sawdust. ‘The durability and maintenance-free qualities of face brick can mitigate future carbon debt as associated with the high maintenance, refurbishment and replacement of less durable lightweight walling. Additionally, double-skin clay brick walling in its different formats affords lower total (embodied and heating and cooling energy emissions) GHG emissions,’ explains Peter Kidger of Corobrik, a major South African clay brick manufacturer. Another producer, Hydraform, utilises a modified rammed earth approach, mixing eight to 10% cement into an earth/clay/silt substrate prior to compressing on site using custom machinery. Then, of course, there is the adobe method, very topical in sustainable housing forums. Of course, the same thermal mass arguments apply equally to other forms of building blocks and bricks, such as the early methods referenced above. Ultimately it will depend on the legality, processing methods, and the logistics of using locally available natural material. The lessons of builders of the past should not be ignored in the rush to tailor make and design certified new or retrofitted ‘green buildings’. Our ancestors were not that wrong! References: University of Bath – ICE (www.bath.ac.uk/mech-eng/ research/sert/); Life Cycle assessment – Energetics, Australia for the ‘Think Brick’ campaign (www.thinkbrick.com.au).

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Advertorial: STIHL

Make STIHL part of your team On any construction site there are a diversity of jobs requiring professional performance, so it’s reassuring that there’s one globally trusted manufacturer that produces a wide range of power tools and equipment designed to handle just about every aspect of what has to be done on time, perfectly, every time. Dating back to 1926, STIHL is a German-based company with a steadfast reputation for producing tough, reliable, user-friendly products for professionals and home-users alike. STIHL constantly invests in research and development, ensuring innovative and proven products across its range.

Cut to the chase

The STIHL legend is based on the success of the ground-breaking chain saw design of the company’s founder, engineer Andreas Stihl. Today the STIHL GS 461 concrete saw combines the renowned cutting features of STIHL chainsaws into one winning package that cuts through concrete faster and more easily with accuracy and power. Produced specifically for the rigorous demands of construction and renovation work, the GS 461 concrete cutter is designed for freehand cutting of concrete with re-enforcing, natural stone, sewage pipes (concrete, ductile iron) and general masonry. Its impressive power-to-weight ratio and smooth handling add to its manoeuvrability, making it perfect for cutting in tight spots or when working against a 90° corner. The GS 461 boasts a low-emission, fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly STIHL 2-MIX engine, and features an anti-vibration system for improved user comfort and reduced fatigue during operation. The guide bar features nozzles that aim forward to precisely provide water to the chain, while standard fittings include side-mounted chain tensioning, a decompression valve, STIHL ElastoStart, a waterand wear-resistant starter cord, a long-life HD2 filter to catch even the finest dust particles to prevent damage to the machine, and a tool-less bayonet fuel cap for easy and upright refuelling.

The cutting crew

When cutting larger openings through hard materials, users need the combined cutting skills of both a STIHL concrete cutter plus a STIHL cut-off machine. Corners can be pierced through using the concrete cutter, followed by the long, straight cuts of the cut-off machine. Use two of STIHL’s premier cutting tools to complement each other for the ultimate in precision and power.

STIHL cut-off saws are specially designed for the demanding conditions of professional use, and make light work of any cutting task. There are a number of STIHL cut-off machines to choose from depending on the requirements of the job, each able to quickly and easily slice through concrete, stone, masonry, pipes and asphalt.

Work anywhere, any time

The STIHL TSA 230 cordless cut-off machine is lightweight but packs a hefty punch. Small and easy to work with, this is the first battery-powered cut-off machine with a 230mm cutting wheel. Despite weighing less than 4kg without the battery, the TSA 230 smoothly carves through tiles, bricks, pipes and metal with ease. The standard-fitted water connection and optional vacuum adapter ensure clean, dust-free cutting. This user-friendly machine comes with the convenience of battery power, which means the TSA 230 has reduced noise levels and is emission-free. It is ideal for working in enclosed spaces and noise-sensitive areas. This cordless cut-off machine is also suitable for roofing, pipe-laying and interior décor projects, wet or dry. It starts at the touch of a button and the ergonomic handle allows the machine to be smoothly guided to a depth of 70mm for precise, accurate cuts.

Cleaning up

Keeping a working area clean is essential for safety and neatness. STIHL offers a range of compact yet powerful cold water high-pressure cleaners that blast clear floors and other surfaces, as well as high-performance sweepers to sweep away debris and dirt. The KG 770 sweeper with durable nylon bristles is ideal for cleaning up larger areas and can cope with all kinds of debris, despite being low weight and easy to push.

Where to find STIHL

The STIHL philosophy is to deliver top-class service with its top-class products. Because of this, STIHL products are only available through a nationwide chain of specialist dealers, which ensures that every STIHL product is sold with expert guidance on how to use and maintain the item, and a guarantee of sustained after-sales service and back-up support.

STIHL W www.stihl.co.za

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Green Building: Water

Holistic approach underpins sustainability Words and photographs by Gareth Griffiths

From Spier to cradle: Iconic hospitality, agricultural and wine company wins Nedbank Green Award while working for the environment for the good of all. Over the past decades, Spier, an iconic leisure, agriculture and viticulture undertaking based in the Stellenbosch winelands along the banks of the Eerste River, has evolved into a multi-faceted business. At her office, SA BUILDING REVIEW spoke to Heidi Newton-King, Spier’s sustainability director, about the holistic approach that Spier has taken, which includes its handling of waste as a resource. It is evident that Spier’s programme enshrines the Braungart cradleto-cradle approach. By coincidence, Dutch scientist, Professor Michael Braungart was a keynote speaker at the Green Building Convention 2015, and presented his cradle to cradle paradigm. Thanks to a concerted effort, Spier recycles 97% of the waste generated by its operations; and the importance of waste is key to the induction and ongoing training of each Spier employee. In the spirit of the cradle-to-cradle philosophy, the company supplies usable waste such as PET to a local Tree-preneur project. The programme is conducted by local community members who grow indigenous trees at their places of dwelling and then barter them for livelihood support. The concept was started by the Wildlands Conservation Trust of KZN (www.wildlands. co.za) that has worked closely with Spier for the Stellenbosch operation. Seedlings are cultivated by Spier employee, Lesley Joemat, who is dedicated to the project. Joemat’s operation is based at a decommissioned waste water treatment plant on the Spier property. Seedlings are planted into recycled containers culled from sorted waste streams from Spier’s leisure and hospitality operations. Once viable, seedlings are handed over

to the custody of the Tree-preneurs who care for them until they are 15cm tall. Thereafter they are handed back to the programme in exchange for barter. Finally they are planted, significantly to replace alien vegetation that has been removed from the banks of the rivers. The goal is to care for the rivers in the catchment area, especially the Eerste River that flows through Stellenbosch and Spier. Spier has also helped with the establishment of the Stellenbosch River Collective consisting of a diverse mix of public and private bodies, significantly also representing the largest commercial entities in the river basin.

Living water

As a major user of water, Spier decided to install a ground-breaking waste water treatment plant as far back as 2007. This plant recycles 100% of the waste water from the Spier complex – winery, hospitality, conferencing restaurants and farming. ‘Water is becoming an increasingly scarce resource in the Winelands,’ says Newton-King. The design and installation was carried out by HWT, a water treatment engineering company that strives to use appropriate technology to allow ease of operation and cost efficiency. Grey and black waste water streams from the buildings and services on the property are mixed with effluent from the winery. According to Andrew Hulsman from HWT, winery effluent is low in pH, low in nutrients and presents a variable and often high organic load. He also says that typical wineries use between one to 10 litres of clean water to produce one litre of quality wine. ‘This is

Photo credit: Gareth Griffiths Imaging

Above: Spier’s farm manager, Orlando Filander, with Engineer Andrew Hulsman at the award-winning wastewater treatment plant. Above right: pier’s wasterwater plant – ornamental pond.

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Green Building: Water

called the benchmark water usage and is expressed in litres of fresh water per litre of wine per annum,’ he explains. However, in Spier’s case, highly effective water-saving interventions in its winery ensure that only 1.96 litres of water is used to make one litre of wine, significantly lower than the average for an equivalent sized operation. The organic waste load of winery effluent is the most difficult type to process and, even when raised to a neutral pH, cannot simply be sprayed onto grass for irrigation without ultimately contaminating the natural water course. Therefore, Spier was challenged to produce an environmentally-friendly treatment environment that encourages natural micro-organisms to consume and biodegrade all pollutants. And that’s exactly what was achieved by way of its award-winning waste water treatment plant. ‘Our recent Getaway Award for Leadership in Water Conservation highlights our efforts in working towards a water-secure future as we aim to minimise our consumption of water from external sources that include the Theewaterskloof dam and the municipality,’ Newton-King points out. The award was made at the 2015 Nedbank Green Wine Awards ceremony held in October 2015. The processes used by Spier to treat all forms of inbound waste water streams are 100% natural and aerobic. The treated water is reused for irrigation purposes around the Spier Hotel and recreational areas on the Estate. More recently, it is planned that treated waste water will be used as grey water for toilet flushing in certain public areas.

is allowed to seep through an indigenous wetland consisting of reed species that further clean the treated water and provide backup capacity to the main bioreactor. This wetland was designed and built to operate on holistic treatment principles and comprises a clay base on which recycled stone from demolished buildings on the farm has been layered. The indigenous wetland plants have multiplied on top of this base, establishing a food web in their root zone consisting of micro-organisms that degrade organic materials and absorb residual nutrients in the water. The water flows through this reed bed relatively quickly and drains to collection points where it can be chlorinated and pumped into an ornamental pond and circulated via a cascade of 15 flow features. This final circular flow treatment further improves the quality parameters of the water, for reasons not fully quantified. Finally, overflow from this pond is pumped into an irrigation storage dam from where it can be utilised on the property. This water is ‘very clean’ says Hulsman.

How does it work?

Sustainability targets

Water is pumped to the treatment plant from six pump stations servicing the different aspects of the property. At a maximum treatment rate of 250kl/day, the plant covers a farm area of 2 500m2, including the bio-treatment reed bed. Fat and other solid material are removed first using special socks (product DragonSock™), which are changed every day. These are ultimately disposed of in municipal waste. The biological reduction of dissolved organic material by activated sludge takes place in the bioreactor treatment tanks. Sludge that cannot be further broken down is collected, dried and used as fertiliser. The water emerging from biological reduction

Visitor area recycling with special infogramme for guests.

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Holistic programme

The recycling of waste water is just one element of Spier’s holistic approach to water. Over the past decade, thirsty alien vegetation has been removed and replaced by more than 53 000 water-wise indigenous plants. Spier’s hotel and conferencing facilities also have water-saving devices, such as lowflow taps and shower heads, which were installed as part of its commitment to reducing municipal water consumption by 50% from 2009 levels.

Spier’s executive have introduced key performance areas covering electricity/energy usage, water consumption and waste minimisation for all senior managers and their staff. Consumption targets per delegate (for conferencing) or per guest (for the hotel) are monitored and reported on a quarterly basis. Newton-King maintains that Spier believes in collaboration when approaching water issues. ‘Water scarcity and quality affects the entire Stellenbosch region and it is only by working together with stakeholders, including government, the community and other businesses, that we can achieve a meaningful positive impact,’ she concludes.

Spier recycles organic waste.

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Advertorial: Aveng

Various combinations of Aveng Infraset’s Villa flagstone and York Cobble pavers enhance the pavement areas at Jean Crossing. The York Cobbles were used for flower-bed edging and as accent lines between the Villa flagstones.

Aveng Infraset pavers add lustre to Gauteng shopping centre Aveng Infraset’s newly-launched Villa, a dry-pressed flagstone paver, and York Cobble, a dry-pressed cobble paver, have been used to enhance the walkways at Jean Crossing, a recently completed shopping centre situated off Jean Avenue in Centurion, Gauteng. A total of 2 460m² Villa pavers and 405m² of York Cobble pavers were specified for Jean Crossing. In addition, the open car park that flanks the centre, was paved with 22 500m² of Aveng Infraset’s interlocking G-Blok pavers and ±2 000m² of York Cobbles, the latter having been used to demarcate a pedestrian walkway through the car park. The pavers were specified by JL Design Architects and the paving contract was awarded to Pave Corner to Corner by the project’s main contractor and developer, Mike Buyskes Construction. According Aveng Infraset Landscape Products Sales Manager, Brennan Small, this is the first time that both pavers have been used on a major project. ‘It was also the first time that Villa flagstones and York Cobbles had been combined in a single project,’ Small noted. The paving product mix comprises 2 250m² Villa Marble (250 x 500 x 60mm) that were combined with 210m² Villa Tan pavers (250 x 250 x 60mm). Additionally, 405m² of York Cobbles in grey and charcoal were used for flower-bed edging and as accent lines between the Villa pavers. Hennie Langeveld from Pave Corner to Corner explains the Villa flagstone and York cobble combination offer an aesthetically pleasing finish and is more cost-effective than a wet cast paving alternative.

‘The architects were impressed with what we achieved on this project and complimented Pave Corner to Corner and Mike Buyskes Construction on our combined input. The fact that Pave Corner to Corner also enjoys a good relationship with Aveng Infraset, which provides us with excellent personal and back-up service, was an added bonus,’ Langeveld added. Small says Villa and York Cobble pavers are manufactured at Aveng Infraset’s new Masa plant at Rossway, Midrand. ‘Masa is one of the world’s most technically advanced paving and retaining block plant manufacturers and has introduced new, and in many instances, unique product options for landscape architects and other construction professionals. In addition to the Villa and York Cobble ranges, it has extended our landscape product offering to include exposed aggregate pavers and kerbs. Moreover, the plant has also been used to upgrade our existing landscape paving range,’ Small concluded. The state-of-the-art plant includes steel production pallets for enhanced vibration transference, in-line washing and sealing, ageing and waving techniques and a specially-insulated curing chamber. It also boasts a brand new colour blending facility that is faster and more accurate than earlier generation blenders.

AVENG INFRASET T +27 012 652 0000 E infrasetinfo@infraset.com W www.infraset.com

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Advertorial: Aveng

Aveng Infraset retaining wall bricks stabilise building platforms Five geosynthetic reinforced retaining walls using precast concrete retaining blocks manufactured by Aveng Infraset have played a crucial role in creating stable terraces for the construction of Emoyeni Mall, a recently completed shopping centre situated on the R538 between Nelspruit and Hazyview in Mpumalanga. Emoyeni Mall was built by one of the country’s leading rural retail centre development specialists, McCormick Property Development, a company with a strong focus on the emerging markets of South Africa. Engineered Interlock Solutions (EIS) in conjunction with TMV Consulting Engineers designed the geosynthetic reinforced concrete block retaining walls. The walls were built by EIS in close collaboration with the main earthworks contractor, Joubert en Seuns. EIS’s owner, Manie Troskie, says his company won the retaining wall tender on the basis of an alternative and more cost-effective design that also offers better functionality. ‘There are substantial quantities of sub-surface water on this site and our design had to make provision for extensive drainage. In fact, there were some embankment sections where one could actually see water oozing from the ground,’ he points out. ‘Three walls were open-face designs and were built with Aveng Infraset’s Terrace Blok® TB 490 and TB 300 retaining wall blocks. The other two walls were closedface and built with the Infrablok™ 350.’ The largest wall, some 200m long, was built in an open-face configuration at an angle of 70˚. It was constructed on the perimeter of the property

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to reinforce an embankment that rose to 12m at its highest point from a service road below. ‘We only had five to six metres to work with on this wall and the installation of extensive sub-surface drainage was required before construction of the wall could begin. Sub-soil drains were installed on top of the foundations three-to-four blocks below kerb level. Fin drains, wrapped in A2 bidem, going right back to the cut face, were laid to trap water at the top, sides and bottom of the embankment. ‘We also installed 250mm Kaytech wick drains wrapped with bidem. And in areas with the heaviest water flows we positioned 100mm slotted pipes covered with stone and Geomesh geotextile to trap the water at the cut face. All ground water drains into a pipe at the bottom of the wall, which runs parallel to the foundation and feeds into the storm water drainage system. ‘The foundation of the perimeter wall was steel reinforced. One metre wide, it varied between 450mm and 300mm in depth depending on the height of the wall. TB 490 retaining blocks were used to erect the lower section of the perimeter wall and the upper section was laid with lighter TB 300s,’ Troskie elaborates. High tenacity Paragrid reinforcing supplied by

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2016/01/13 3:59 PM

Advertorial: Aveng

Maccaferri was used to reinforce the wall. The material was specified because of its very low elongation properties. It also attains its tensile strength very quickly and has a stretch factor of less than 5%. The Paragrid reaches back to the cut face and was laid at a spacing of every second block on the lower half of the wall. Macgird WG4 was installed at every third block on the top half and extends nine metres into the fill. The parking basement wall was also built as a geosynthetic reinforced wall. Rising to 5.5m, it takes a heavier loading than the perimeter wall as it has to support a portion of the weight of the building which was built on a jockey slab, concrete columns and normal foundations. Because of the heavier loading, the wall was built using the TB 490 block only. ‘Basement walls are normally built with solid concrete retaining walling. However, retaining block walls are more cost-effective,’ Troskie advises. Two closed-face walls were built using Aveng Infraset attractive Infrablok™ 350 at an angle of 85˚ due to limited space. One, which varies between a height of one metre and 3.4m, was built adjacent to a car-park feeder road and supports a building

platform on which a Cashbuild store was built. The wall was built around concrete support columns and reinforced soil, and supports a portion of the building’s loading. Maccaferri Paragrid was used to reinforce this wall to prevent any soil movement under the building’s foundations. The second closed-face wall was built around a water reservoir situated on ground above the centre. This wall was constructed with Infrablok™ 350s at a face angle of 75º and Macgrid WG4 was used for geosynthetic reinforcing. A combination of Macgrid WG4 and cement-stabilised backfill was deployed in areas where the space between the reservoir and the concrete block retaining wall was limited. Other members of the professional team included the main consultant, Endacon Consulting Engineers, and the main building contractor, Ikotwe Construction. Over the past 33 years, McCormick Property Development has completed 58 shopping centres which have become the benchmark for rural retail development. The company is now extending its reach into Africa with a number of large-scale projects in the pipeline, most notably the Mall de Mozambique in Matola, Mozambique.

AVENG INFRASET BRENNAN SMALL T +27 012 652 0000 ENGINEERED INTERLOCK SOLUTIONS MANIE TROSKIE C +27 083 258 6190 MCCORMICK PROPERTIES QUINTUS VAN ROOYEN C +27 082 475 1155

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✔ ENGINEERS DESIGN, INSPECTION & CERTIFICATION MULTIPLE STOREYS RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL “ We have’nt invented the Slab but We have Perfected it !! “ Call/Fax/Email your plan for a free quote and valuable advice 072 888 6643 / 083 639 5786 Tel: 011 852 4011 / Fax: 086 443 5710 2 Acacia Rd, Anchorville, Lenasia royalconcrete@gmail.com www.royalconcrete.co.za

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TO ADVERTISE IN

BUILDING REVIEW

ANNUAL ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCE HANDBOOK

VERSARY NI

s AN

5 Year

VER NI

Issue 5 - 2017 EDITION

SARY

CONTACT: T 021 424 3625 E info@sabuildingreview.co.za

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VOLUME 4 | 2016

advertisers’ index 3A Composites Gmb Architecture & Display ........................................... 90, 91, 92, 93 Alstone SA ................................................. 156, 157 Aluglass Bautech (Pty) Ltd .............................. 24, 25 Alugro (Pty) Ltd........................................... 106, 107 AMA Architects .................................................... 72 AMS ..................................................................... 98 Aveng Infraset ........................... 180, 181, 182, 183 Bagshaw ........................................................... 122 BASF Holdings South Africa ........................ 142, 143 Belgotex Floor Coverings (Pty) Ltd ...................... 189 Bergvik Flooring ................................................. 165 Blue Scope Steel ............................................. 1, 84 Boomgate Systems ............................................. 99 Calybrick Association ........................................ 171 Cape Construction Expo ..................................... 76 Cape Patio Blinds .............................................. 140 Chair Express ..................................................... 186 Cochrane Steel ................................................... 68 Concrete Slab Supplies ....................................... 85 Copper Development Association Africa .......... 141 Decorex .............................................................. 48 Den Braven ....................................................... 174 Dynamic Lighting & Shading Solutions .............. 102 FAW Trucking ..................................................... 2, 3 Fourways Air Conditioning ................................ 9,32 Geberit SA ......................................... 56, 57, 58, 59 Global Rooﬁng Solutions ................................... 129 Hillaldam Sliding Door Systems .......................... 158 Ian Fuller Agencies .............................................. 77 Institute for Timber Construction South Africa ..... 148 JoJo Tanks ................................................. 110, 111 Johan Louw & Associates.................................... 19 JSS Industrial Coatings ............................... 112, 113 Kitchen Specialist Association ........................... 146 Liebherr Appliances ............................................ 27 Lloyd Orr Communications ........................... 96, 97 Mactool ............................................................ 186 Mapei ........................................................... 80, 81 Marley Pipe Systems ...................................... 40, 41 Maxiﬂex Door Systems ....................................... 152 Mercedes - Benz SA .................................. 190, 191

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Mitek Industries ........... 130, 131, 132, 133, 134 135 Modek................................................................. 47 Mota-Engil Group Africa ........................ 7, 166, 167 Nouwens Carpets................................................ 65 Palram (Pty) Ltd.............................................. 60, 61 Pelican Systems................................................... 22 Philips lighting South Africa .......................... 49, 147 Polyﬂor ............................................................... 128 Polystyrene Packaging Council ......................... 170 Prism Architects ................................................. 136 Quick- Step Instant Staircases.............................. 89 Romotas 2000 (Pty) Ltd ..................................... 187 Royal Concrete ................................................. 184 Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors................ 185 Rubio Monocoat ........................................... 30, 31 Saint-Gobain Weber.......................................... 153 Saint-Gobain Isover ................................... 118, 119 Sanitech ............................................................ 187 Savignac ................................................... 154, 155 Schindler Lifts SA ................................................ 185 SE Controls ........................................................ 184 Shutters Cape ..................................................... 88 Sika.......................................................... 37, 38, 39 Solar Ray ........................................................... 149 South African Vinyls Association ......................... 137 South African Wood Preserves Association ........................................ 50, 51, 52, 53 Spunchem ........................................................ 159 Stihl ............................................................ 176, 177 The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company ............................................ 5 Trumod (Pty) Ltd .................................................. 29 Uretek .................................................................. 64 Vaal Sanitaryware (Pty) Ltd..... 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 Van Dyck Carpets ............................................... 11 Viega ........................................................ 116, 117 Vital Engineering & Angus Mcleod .... 123, 124, 125 Wall Design ............................................... 160, 161

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Advertorial: Mercedes-Benz SA

Renico Plant Hire relies on Mercedes-Benz tip-top tippers Renico Group’s Managing Director, Nico Louw, explains why his company has been using Mercedes-Benz trucks since his company’s inception in 1998, and why these vehicles allow Renico Plant Hire to continue being the best at what it does. One of Renico Plant Hire’s pay-off lines – ‘the right equipment, at the right time, at the right price’ – perfectly embodies why it is widely regarded as one of the leading plant hire companies in the country. To cope with demand, not only reliable and competent people are required, but also reliable earthmoving machines. Renico Plant Hire’s fleet consists of over 300 pieces of large earthmoving equipment and tipper trucks that are deployed on various sites on the Reef, and are also now operating in at least four other provinces around the country at any given time. Sites include large-scale shopping centres and office developments, casino developments, highway upgrades, mining, and various other building projects. Large contracts are also undertaken, particularly by the Quarrying and Crushing Division, established in 2007. The crushers and screens have played an important role in the development of sections of national highways and in the on-site conversion of waste materials from large demolition projects into reusable aggregates, making a vital recycling

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contribution to the environment. It is evident that without their various equipment, including vehicles, Renico would not be at the top of its game. ‘Renico Plant Hire has been using Mercedes-Benz trucks since its inception in 1998. This was solidified in 2012 when Nico Kriek from Sandown Motors formed what has become a strong bond with us,’ says Renico Group’s Managing Director, Nico Louw. ‘In our line of business we not only need reliable people, but also earthmoving machines that never tire, and that is why we look to Mercedes-Benz trucks to do what others cannot. Needless to say, it did not take much convincing for us to purchase 32 2628/33 AXOR 2 tippers recently,’ adds Louw. The 2628/33 chassis cabs are fitted with MBC 10m3 tipper bodies and their reliability enables Renico to efficiently attend to its high workload – the result of recently being awarded 11 large-scale earthwork tenders. ‘Renico places a lot of value in the various relationships we have nurtured over the last few years. Naturally, Mercedes-Benz is one of our most important

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Advertorial: Mercedes-Benz SA

ones as these vehicles allow us to continue being the best at what we do. In addition, our other partners have found them extremely easy to customise. MBC bodies has been building tipper and other bodies (including water tankers) for us since 2002, and they smile each time we bring a Mercedes-Benz truck to them as they know exactly what to expect: quality,’ says Louw. Renico Plant Hire continues to grow in Gauteng as is evidenced by the large scale tenders and contracts awarded to the company. With the company’s recent acquisition of two Mercedes Benz 2628/33 AXOR 2 chassis cabs, with brick truck bodies manufactured by MBC and fitted with Palfinger cranes, the company’s use of these chassis cabs has now been extended beyond tipper trucks. Mercedes-Benz trucks are known for offering operators maximum up time and, for Renico, this means their vehicles spend as much time as possible getting the job done right. ‘All our equipment undergoes maintenance on a regular basis within our well-quipped and well-staffed workshop. They are all run through a comprehensive checking process before being sent out to our customers or to be used on site for contract work, which ensures a minimum of downtime. As a company that hires out equipment, we cannot afford to have a fleet that will let us down, which is why we chose to go with Mercedes-Benz trucks. We know

that when they are hired out to customers they will render a most satisfactory service. That makes our customers come back to us over and over again,’ Louw concludes.

MERCEDES-BENZ SA T +27 012 677 1500 W www.mercedes-benz.co.za

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