Timber iQ August / September 2013 | Issue: 9 by Trademax Publications

ISSN 2305-9648

CONTENTS

CONTENTS 14

ED'S NOTE

CONTRIBUTORS

ARCHITECTURE - LIVING ON THE EDGE

COVER STORY - REM

TIMBER TRUSSES - MITEK

ARCHITECTURE - MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS

THATCH - SPECIALIZED TRADE

WINDOWS - TONY SANDELL ROOF WINDOWS

THATCHING TWINE - KEEPING IT TOGETHER

NEWS - TANAPOLETM

THATCH FIRE SAFETY - THATCH AND FIRE

COMPANY PROFILE - GEMIAN THATCHING

COMPANY PROFILE - THATCH PROTECTION SERVICES

NEWS - LONZA PAYS TRIBUTE TO THATCHERS

INDUSTRY INSIGHT - SAWPA

THATCH - TASA

COMPANY PROFILE - MEGA QUALITY THATCHING

FURNITURE - THE WOOD FOR THE TREES

FURNITURE - SWALLOW

THATCH ROOFING - LOOKING UP

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

ED'S NOTE

Thinking thatch We all have a long line of forefathers to thank, not only for our existence, but for the very characteristics that define us; our curly hair, blue eyes, pianist hands, or affinity for art.

e inherit these features from our forefathers, so that our very being is a representation, in some configuration, of the bits and pieces that made them who they are or were. And so we take from our respective lineages what works, sometimes what doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work so well, to carry forth multitudes of being into a future unbeknownst to us. This type of collective progress rings true for building practices too, but none quite so poignant as that of thatching. The concept reaches back into a time when we made use of our immediate surroundings and drew directly from the earth to sustain our existence. And so, from the tropics to more moderate climates, thatch was used for both roofing and cladding â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the skill passed down from generation to generation, an early indicator of our most basic instincts for survival and our undoubtable resourcefulness as a species.

The aroma of a thatched building and the unmistakable sense of safety that comes with the acoustic cocooning the material brings, will always remain. One of the many impressive projects we feature in this issue, the Midden-Delfland Town Hall, is a beautifully considered feature on a landscape that welcomes its form, and is even mirrored by it. The application of the thatch may appear to be modern and crisp, but the very fibres that envelop the structure hearken back to a time when thatch was in imperative material for basic shelter. With that, I welcome you to an issue of Timber iQ that honours thatch. It is my hope that the projects, products and services that exemplify generations of passed-on skills and a deep appreciation for a product of the earth, inspire you to think thatch. Enjoy the read!

To add the gravity of the landscape to any residential or commercial space, or to restore an historic building to honour its character, thatching may have evolved to become more efficient, more durable and easier to install over time. But thatch, whether applied according to vernacular design principles or highly modernised forms, pays homage in every way to the very fabric and craft of this age-old practice.

Jen Please forward your comments, suggestions, or questions to editor@trademax.co.za.

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AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

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THE MARK OF EXCELLENCE!

THE THATCHERS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA STRIVES TO UPHOLD HIGH STANDARDS OF PRACTICE FOR THE THATCHING INDUSTRY, MEMBERS AND THEIR CUSTOMERS. TASA AIMS TO DO THE FOLLOWING: FOR MEMBERS: • • • • •

Establish and exercise a code of ethics. Establish and maintain minimum standards and requirements. Promote interaction through marketing and socialising. Establish and maintain a membership list. Pro-active promotion programmes to enhance the image of the Association.

FOR CONSUMERS: • • • • • •

High visibility for Association and its members. Highlighting poor workmanship and malpractice. Marketing of the Association and the trade in general in SA and overseas. Awareness of the SANS 10407 Specification and requirements. Liaison with the NHBRC. Awareness of skills and products of members.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT ELZABIE MEINTJES: (c) 083 283 8429 (e) admin@sa-thatchers.co.za (w) www.sa-thatchers.co.za

CONTRIBUTORS

THE TEAM EDITOR:

JACQUES CRONJE Jacques is a registered Professional Senior Architectural Technologist (Pr.S.Arch.T). While his architectural training is informal, having learnt by onthe-job experience, mentorship and self-study, he has degrees in building management and economics, a post-grad certificate in energy economics and has done several courses in energy efficiency and sustainable development.

Jennifer Rees 0861 727 663 076 119 8819 editor@trademax.co.za

EDITORIAL INTERN: Tanya Paulse 0861 727 663 tanya@trademax.co.za

PUBLISHER: Billy Perrin billy@trademax.co.za 0861 727 663

DANIEL CONRADIE Daniel is a Candidate Senior Architectural Technologist and freelance writer based in Cape Town. He is passionate about the design process and how the technology and materials employed are composed to express it. Jason Bakery lattés, sci-fi novels and Cape Town summers assist him in retaining his sanity and fervour.

ADVERTISING: Angeline Martin angie@trademax.co.za 0861 727 663

LAYOUT & DESIGN: Craig Patterson craig@trademax.co.za

SUBSCRIPTIONS & DATA: Celeste Perrin celeste@trademax.co.za 0861 727 663

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DISCLAIMER The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of Trademax Publications. Although we have done our best to ensure the accuracy of our content, neither Trademax Publications nor Timber iQ magazine will be held liable for any views expressed or information disseminated in this issue.

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ARCHITECTURE

Living on the edge It is fairly rare to come across an architectural work where thatch is applied in an unconventional manner. Photography: Kees Hageman. Words: Daniel Conradie.

ARCHITECTURE

or centuries, Dutch architects have designed homes with thatched roofs, most likely due to the material's widespread availability. Although the present applications for thatched roofs have become more of a novelty, often employed to draw visual comparisons between old and new structures, its popularity remains notable. A thatch roof's inherent warmth and the natural differentiation in its colour contribute significantly to a building's depth and character. The evolution of an architectural style unique to a particular area (otherwise referred to as vernacular architecture) is oftentimes a direct response to the materials that are available within the immediate area and the dimensions in which these are commonly available. To illustrate this, in reference to a vernacular style commonly found in South Africa, the length of the early Cape Dutch homesteads were determined by the length of trees obtainable within that area, as they were used for the roof's ridge beam. Only later did the central gable, a now common element in homesteads adopting the style, appear as a response to this limitation. The client, who had been residing in the city centre with his family, purchased a property on the outskirts of the city, desiring a more serene setting. Dutch architect, Arjen Reas explains the design as being representative of an amalgamation of styles as a response to the site's unique position on the edge of the rural and urban realms. "We were challenged to fuse together traditional ideals with a contemporary house design, a cubistic shape placed in a desolate landscape, where all urban feeling is gone," Reas explains.

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

ARCHITECTURE

"We were challenged to fuse together traditional ideals with a contemporary house design, a cubistic shape placed in a desolate landscape, where all urban feeling is gone." In referencing the formal language of local vernacular architecture, Reas designed a home paying homage to several stylistic cues of the archetypal rural Dutch house – a simple rectangular floor plan, punctured window openings, lime washed walls and a thatched roof, the latter of which was stressed in an almost playful gesture. Expanding on the notion of the home being a pure object on a desolated plane, the landscaping comprises of stone chips with a couple of plants occupying the side boundaries. A fence consisting of vertically fixed timber planks runs the length of the boundary, its silhouette beautifully repeating the glazing strips on the building's façade. The programme is divided between three storeys – a utilitarian basement comprised of a garage and store rooms, living areas on the ground floor and the sleeping quarters in the roof space. A low ‘werf’ wall marks the approach towards the front door, as well as concealing the garage entry behind it. Framing the main entrance is a double volume protrusion, acting as sort of gable to accentuate its importance. On the ground floor the living and dining areas are placed and large doors open out onto a terrace spanning the width of the house. From here the spectacular view of the open plains are framed by a beautiful timber-clad ceiling and deck.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

ARCHITECTURE

BASEMENT KEY: 1. SLOPE 2. PARKING 3. STORAGE 4. STORAGE 5. ENTRANCE

GROUND FLOOR KEY: 1. ENTRANCE 2. TOILET 3. SCULLERY 4. KITCHEN AND DINING 5. LIVING 6. PORCH

SECOND FLOOR KEY: 1. HALL 2. MAIN BEDROOM 3. CLOSET 4. SHOWER 5. BATHROOM 6. BEDROOM 7. BEDROOM 8. BEDROOM

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

ARCHITECTURE

The first floor houses the bedrooms and bathrooms. Vertically proportioned window and door openings break the monotony of the thatched element, while permitting natural light to flood into the interior spaces. Continuing the exterior colour palette employed, timber hardwood floors and exposed timber rafters are used in conjunction with white painted walls.

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In combination with the exterior walls the total thickness contributes to an envelope with superior insulation properties, effectively retaining a larger amount of heat inside the structure and ultimately translating into savings on electricity consumption. The thatched roof, without a doubt, stands as the lead actor in this composition, enveloping the majority of the structure. "We used the thatch like a warm hat and pulled it down over the edges," explained Reas. "The benefit of this is that the thatch becomes touchable. Also, when looking through the windows, it surrounds you." The thatched walls are detailed in a way that the thatch is fixed in bundles with thin strips of wire onto an insulating board that is installed on the outer face of the exterior walls. This particular fixing method effectively eliminates the presence of an air gap between the insulation and the thatching, drastically reducing the combustibility. Locally the occurrence of thatched roofs has been waning over the last couple of decades on account of the limitations inherent in its application â&#x20AC;&#x201C; its perceived vulnerability to fire, higher cost in comparison to alternative products, as well as decay. It does, however, manage to retain its relevance. Centuries of refinement have inevitably contributed to the development of various techniques in order to overcome the material's shortcomings. As with the selection of any building material it is dependent on a myriad of factors that need to be considered in identifying the most favourable solution. The project never set out to impose the typical Dutch vernacular style onto the new home; instead it merely borrows various elements from it and by reworking them, produces something that is unique. By mixing two very different materials adopted from the Dutch landscape, Reas has succeeded in crafting a home which embodies the essence of rural living while enjoying the conveniences offered by the city.

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For more information, email info@arjenreas.nl or visit www.arjenreas.nl.

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

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COVER STORY

The REM Team: Stiaan Bester (Technician), David Dennis (Marketing Manager), Steven Dennis (Director), Trevor Densham (Branch Manager – Durban), Stephan Kruger (Sales Director), Colin Wilkie (Sales Manager – Exports), Thinus Ferreira (Technician), Henry Holder (Sales Manager – Head Office).

From strength to strength REM - Round Equipment & Machines opens KZN branch

The new company, REM has raced from strength to strength since opening in the beginning of 2012, said Sales Director, Stephan Kruger. The strategy of controlled and consistent growth is making REM the "mover and shaker" in the industry.

EM successfully launched their KZN branch on Friday the 16th of August 2013. REM invited various existing and potential clients to attend the opening and was very honoured to have so many attend. Some industry-related partners were also invited, such as Sasfin and National Edging, who provided information on improvements in their particular fields of expertise.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

Apart from networking with their clients, REM ran demonstrations on CNC machines, CNC boring centres and Edgebanders. The aim of the day was to celebrate this milestone with their clients, create new bonds, introduce their specific suppliers and also strengthen their position in the market. REM is a dominant player in the SA market, as well as subSaharan Africa due to their large stock holding, aggressive sales team and technical support structure.

COVER STORY

Henry Holder with the ‘Opening Board’ made by the Masterwood Project 250 CNC.

Technical Director, Johan Schwartz, said, “It is pointless selling technologically advanced machines without the service team to back it up; this is why service is the highest priority.” REM is confidently gaining and retaining its market share by keeping to its core values: offering superior service levels, best prices, ethical business practices and, most importantly, the right machine for the right job. With their fast and efficient installation along with excellent after-sales service and maintenance, you can rest assured that your production needs will be met.

CONTACT: (t) 012 643 0515 (Centurion) (t) 031 766 3315 (Durban) (e) info@rem-sa.co.za (w) www.rem-sa.co.za

"The REM team would like to thank all those who attended and for the support of our suppliers: Masterwood, Elcon, Bi-Matic, OTT, RM Group, Panhans, MacMazza, Makser and Weber." - Trevor Densham, Branch Manager KZN. For more information on events, specials and market news, go to their Facebook page, REM - Round Equipment and Machines.

Thinus Ferreira and Henry Holder programming the Masterwood Project 250 CNC.

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

TIMBER TRUSSES

MiTek roof structure for prestigious Boardwalk Casino Hotel The imposing and very large roof structure for the Port Elizabeth Boardwalk Casino Hotel with its steep roof, numerous dormer windows and turret structures, was provided by the Buco Hardware Buildware Uitenhage, a long established MiTek licensed supplier.

lthough the roof structure was very large with spans of 20m and a roof pitch of 45 degrees, the whole roof was made of pre-fabricated nail-plated timber trusses utilizing MiTek design software and connector plates.

In certain instances the roof structure was made up of three tiered trusses stacked on top of each other.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

TIMBER TRUSSES

The timber structure with a roof area of over 6500mÂ˛ required some 168mÂł of timber, which would equate to about 81 tons with a further 2.5 tons of nail-plates and hangers making up the supply price of R2.3 million excl. sheeting, erection and VAT.

Utilizing the powerful MiTek 20/20 design software, Buco Uitenhage was able to design all aspects of this roof structure including the complex dormers and turret roofs. Final working drawings were exported directly from the software and all designs, as well as the completed roof structure, were checked by the MiTek engineers.

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

TIMBER TRUSSES

The project duration was just over eight months, including interruptions of about six weeks of rain. A daily delivery of materials ensured uninterrupted continuity, whilst cranes lifted the trusses into position. It is therefore no surprise that Buco Uitenhage completed this project within the allocated time frame. MiTek Industries South Africa (Pty) Ltd is very proud to be associated with the Buco Group and this prestigious project.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: MiTek Industries South Africa (Pty) Ltd (t) 011 237 8700 (e) marketing@mitek.co.za (w) www.mitek.co.za

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

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ARCHITECTURE

Municipal affairs The carbon-neutral town hall of Midden-Delfland, among the most sustainable government buildings in the Netherlands, underscores the distinct open character of the area. Photography by: Auke van der Weide.

LANDSCAPE AS LEITMOTIF The small municipality of Midden-Delfland is a green recreational enclave in the industrialized South Wing of the Randstad, Netherlands.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

This vulnerable setting inspired the architects of Inbo, Arnold Homan and Jeroen Simons, in their design for its new town hall. Inbo designed a characteristic building, using the distinctive polder landscape of Midden-Delfland as a leading theme on multiple scale levels.

ARCHITECTURE

The town hall is covered by a softly folded thatched roof, giving the building its distinct shape, which is inspired by the typical farmhouses in Midden-Delfland, as well as the variations in height of the polder landscape. Core values, such as an overarching appreciation for sustainability and a high quality of life, held by the residents of the area also fed into the design all levels; from the urban planning to the design of the council table. Inbo chose to adapt the grammar of the polder landscape into the concept of the town hall. The building consists of five alternating volumes corresponding with the parcelling of the polder landscape. The building is carefully dressed against the peat dyke, making good use of the elevation to centre all its public functions on the middle floor. The town hall is covered by a softly folded thatched roof, giving the building its distinct shape, which is inspired by the typical farmhouses in Midden-Delfland, as well as the variations in height of the polder landscape.

In this way, the design not only addresses its function as one that houses essential services to the surrounding community, but also exemplifies a visual relationship between the building and the surrounding landscape. The high level of transparency provides the building with the pleasant and inviting appeal of a visitor centre. The PV-panels integrated into the faรงades and roof provide a renewable source of energy, while at the same time providing shading. The building is air-conditioned using an underground thermal-storage system. Modest materials and colours for the interior design visually link the building with the surrounding landscape.

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

ARCHITECTURE

The town hall presents itself like a visitor centre: an approachable, accessible building that interacts with its surroundings and has been awarded an A label on energy efficiency and a sustainability score of 235 (Greencalc). This carbon neutral building is literally fed by the landscape. Natural underground wells are used for heat and cold storage, regulating the building’s climate. The design choices in the building’s shape and materialization support the high standards for sustainability. The thick thatched roof and triple glazing façades ensure a high level of insulation. Solar cells integrated in the façade generate electricity and also serve as sunscreens. The spatial entrance hall bathes in daylight, bridging the differences in height between polder and river level by two easily accessible entrances. The double high council chamber is situated on the first level at the far end of the building with a back-folded roof shape that frames the view across the adjacent polder landscape.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

The interior of the building also reflects the character of the area with modest design and use of natural materials. The tiled floor for the public hall refers to the characteristic floors in traditional farmhouses. The carpet pattern throughout the offices resembles an aerial view of a polder landscape. The street pavement on polder level continues into the entrance hall. In the interior elements, such as faรงades, counters, pantries and the council table, native wood has been applied. A dynamic and open work environment has been created, generating views into public hall and entrance hall, and towards is surroundings: river, village and polder. The town hall is literally connected to the landscape.

FAST FACTS: CLIENT: Municipality of Midden-Delfland PROJECT TEAM: Jeroen Simons, Arnold Homan, Arie de Jong, Maarten Hooijmeijer, Erik Berg, Ben van der Wal. YEAR: 2012 GROSS FLOOR: 5 966m2

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

THATCH

The use of sisalation in thatching is obsolete.

A specialized trade

Thatching in South Africa The building of thatch roofs and structures is a specialized trade, regardless of the size of the structure. Regulations stipulate that a plan first needs to be drawn up by an architect or structural engineer and that the design has to comply with municipal and national building regulations: SANS 10400-L and SANS 10407 Thatched Roof Construction Specification.

he plan must be approved by the municipality and the structural engineer or architect (competent person) has to inspect the structure again to verify, once completed, if it complies with the standards and regulations. A property may not be bought or sold without this certificate.

Poor workmanship, quality of materials, as well as the absence of approved plans, has tarnished the image of the industry. Since the re-institution of TASA approximately eight years ago, two major determining factors for success or failure of a thatching company came to the fore, namely: 1. Supervision on site by a knowledgeable person 2. Quality of material and workmanship

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

THATCH

Very good quality thatch grass.

Thatched roofs built without approved plans and the supervision of a qualified engineer causes headaches for clients and for TASA, and poor workmanship, construction problems and inferior materials provide enough grounds for a client to sue the contractor. Every thatched roof built in South Africa must be built according to the specification requirements of SANS 10407 (Thatched Roof Construction) and SANS 10400 (National Building Regulations with special reference to part L).

COMMON THATCHING GRASS Although commonly used in Britain, Norfolk reed has not been widely used for thatching in this country, despite its availability. The type of grass known as Tambookie grass (Tamboekie) is often used in the rural areas for thatching, but there are coarse varieties, with stalks thicker than 4mm, that are not considered suitable for thatching. Natal thatching grass has a finer texture, when laid, than the grass found in Mpumalanga and the Northern Province, and is often preferred for this reason. The most commonly used South African grasses with their main geographical locations are listed below:

The stalks of thatching grass are normally hollow and about 3mm thick. Cape dekriet stalks, however, are solid and about 3 to 4mm thick. The quality of the material improves with cultivation and regular cutting. A question often asked is whether the quality of the thatch is dependent on the way in which the grass is harvested, since some thatchers consider the quality of material cut by hand (with a sickle) to be superior to that cut with a machine. The answer is no. The quality of the thatch produced is the same. However, cutting the grass by hand will produce only about 50 to 100 bundles a day, whereas a mechanical cutter and binder will process about 6 000 bundles a day. Thatching grass is usually cut from mid-winter to August, after growth has stopped and the first hard frost has killed the leaves. In areas where no frost occurs, the only measure for determining whether the grass is ripe and ready for cutting is whether the grass plumes still contain any seeds. Should this not be taken into account (still lots of seeds) and the grass is cut too early, this will impact not only on the quality, but also the grass yield for the following seasons. At the end of the cutting season the remaining stubble and undergrowth must be removed, either by grazing or by burning.

SCIENTIFIC NAME

GENERAL NAME

AREA FOUND

Hyparrhenia hirta

Thatching grass

Natal Berg area

Hyperphilia dissoluta

Yellow thatching grass

Northern Province, Mpumalanga, Northern KwaZuluNatal and Swaziland

Thamnochortus insignis

Cape thatching reed or dekriet

Albertinia and Riversdale districts of the Cape

Hyparrhenia dregeana

Natal Midlands and Berg area

Hyparrhenia filipendula

Fine thatching grass

KwaZulu-Natal, Zululand coastal regions

Thamnochortus erectus and Thamnochortus specigerus

Dekriet or thatch reed

Cape coastal regions

Chondropetalum tectorum Phragmites australis

Cape area Norfolk reed, swamp grass or Umhlanga grass

Widespread in South Africa.

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

THATCH

Good quality thatch reed with a rich golden colour.

THATCHING MATERIALS SHALL BE STORED SUCH THAT: • The stem surface is not physically damaged • The bundles are clear of the ground • The bundles are not unduly exposed to moisture and sun It is recommended that the thatch should be stacked on pallets or old tyres to keep it off the ground, and covered with a good quality plastic of around 250 micron. Strap the plastic down with rope in a zig zag fashion, securing the rope to the ground every 2-3m to prevent the wind from blowing the plastic off. Make sure the plastic has no holes. If the grass gets wet, it will start to rot within days. If it gets wet, open it up to dry as quickly as possible.

CAPE THATCHING REED Cape thatching reed is a species of the Restionaceae (reed) family, which is widely distributed in the Albertinia and Riversdale regions. This species, known as Thamnochortus insignis is unisexual, incorporating female as well as male plants. The clumps of reed have a diameter of 300mm and more, and grow to a height of 2.5m. This is most commonly used in the Cape regions, because of availability, and is also used throughout South Africa. The sandy area, or dunes, stretching between the Gouritz River east of Albertinia and the Duivenhoks River west of Riversdale, from the coast in the south to the dunes near the N2 national road that links Mossel Bay and Cape Town, is excellent thatching reed territory.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

The thatching reed that grows mainly in the sand dunes is consequently less abundant, and is found in an area of about 2 000 km2. The lushest reeds, however, grow in the dunes that lie below the chalk ridges, as well as in the white sand in front of the dunes. Various species of the Proteaceae family that grow mainly on the chalky ridges and sandy soil are also found in this area and include Protea obtusifolia, P. susannae and P.repens, the genera Leucospermum muirii and L.cuneioforme, as well as different species of leucadendrons, and the well-known heath, Erica bauera. As soon as the thatching reed has formed seed, ripened and been dispersed, it is cut with sickles or reed-cutting machines and spread out to dry, transforming in colour to a rich gold. Soon after the first rains, the tufts start growing again and recover to such an extent that they can be reharvested after three years.

CLEANING AND BUNDLING After the grass has been cut and loosely bundled, each bundle is shaken vigorously to dislodge all loose material. The bundles are then cleaned by passing a sickle through them, working from top to bottom. This removes the remaining leaf growth from the lower two thirds of the stalks. The grass is then regrouped into bundles about one to 1.5 m long and between 75 and 100mm in diameter. These bundles are each tied with a thong of twisted grass or with twine and packed in heaps (pyramid shape) about 2m high and 2.5 to 3m in diameter at the base.

THATCH

Very bad quality thatch reed full of seed and leaves.

TASA does not support the use of immature thatch cut during the growing season and unequivocally rejects such practices THE USE OF IMMATURE THATCH CUT DURING THE GROWING SEASON Immature thatch cut during the growing season is short and the required resin layer protecting the thatch against moisture absorption, has not yet formed. The nodes are not stiff and break easily. The thatch is still full of leaves and seed causing it to rot when treated with a fire retardant product. Methane gas also forms in hollows in the roof and is a potential fire hazard. The lifespan of such a roof is short and the roof will need more regular maintenance. The cell structure of mature thatch is different and must first be exposed to frost. This is the best type of thatch to use. TASA does not support the use of immature thatch cut during the growing season and unequivocally rejects such practices.

THE WEIGHT OF A ROOF THATCHED WITH THATCH GRASS Cape reed is much heavier and thatched much thinner than grass roofs. A thatched roof with poles weighs 80kg per square metre (dead weight). A thatched roof with wind load (roof surface with a slope of 45 degrees) can be up to 121kg per square metre. One square metre grass (grass alone) weighs about 42kgs.

THE USE OF SISALATION AS A FIRE RETARDING AGENT Some contractors still make use of sisalation as a method of fire retardation. This practice is obsolete and is not recommended, as condensation seriously reduces the lifespan of the thatched roof. Using inferior grass together with sisalation is a sure recipe for disaster, as these roofs will not last, because the protective layer against moisture penetration has not been formed yet and is easy to detect because it breaks easily at the joints. Complaints about roofs constructed as per the above practices continue and maintenance work endeavouring to remove the rotting leaves and seeds does not solve the problem, as these roofs eventually start leaking.

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

THATCH

Very poor quality grass full of leaves and loose material.

TREATMENT OF THATCH ROOFS TASA does not take a stand on the chemical treatment of thatched roofs. The onus rests with the manufacturers to prove the efficacy, influence and impact their product has on the thatch. The efficacy of any treatment depends on the quality and condition of the thatch and the stability of the structure as a whole. Treatment is not compulsory and not all insurance companies ask for proof of treatment. New thatch roofs require no pre-treatment, whereas weathered roofs need to be serviced properly to remove loose and weathered thatch before treatment is applied. Thatch roofs should be provided with a fire-retardant system only if required.

• If yes, does it extend above the roofline? • Do you use open fires, fuelled by solid fuels (e.g. wood)? • Are the chimneys fitted with spark arrestors? • Does the building have an approved lightning conductor? • Has the thatch been treated with any of the following: fire blanket/chemicals? • Is the building protected by a drencher system? • Are any fire-fighting hose reels installed at the premises?

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS ARE CONDITIONS OF COVER • Installation of a 4,5kg dry powder fire extinguisher in the kitchen • Clearance of bush, jungle, grass and weeds up to 25m from the premises (excluding garden cultivation)

Chimneys must be correctly installed and it is good to install a ceiling in the kitchen. In the case of large thatch roofs, a lightning conductor must be provided only where the flash density is more than 3. Lightning conductors must be installed according to specification requirements.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TASA, CONTACT:

INSURANCE OF A THATCH ROOF

TYPICAL QUESTIONS ASKED BY INSURANCE COMPANIES: • What is the name of your thatching company? • What is the present condition of the roof? • Has the building been rewired? • Construction of the walls (brick and mortar, timber)? • Does the kitchen have a concrete ceiling? • Does the building have a chimney?

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

JJ Family Thatchers Quality, cost-eﬀective thatching

A family business with many years’ experience in coastal thatching For a free quote, contact Jonathan at 078 537 7608 or email jjfamilythatchers@gmail.com www.jjthatchers.co.za

* Lodges * Houses * Lapas & Pools * New or Repairs & Maintenance * Building, etc. Plot 21 Marabeth, Tarlton. Jaco: 072 858 0091 Dirk: 082 784 7856

QUALITY THATCHING SINCE 1979

Tel: 082 331 5163 / 036 438 6243 Fax: 036 438 6566 Email: countrycraftthatching@gmail.com Web: www.countrycraftthatching.co.za

Thatching Specialists: Conference Centres, Lodges, Houses, Lapas & Entertainment Areas Thatch Maintenance & Drainage Systems Thatch Fire Protection Building, Carpentry & Other Roofing Types Available Eastern Cape based, Large Contracts NATIONWIDE

Tel: 043 738 5044 | Cell: 082 780 5725 Email: info@cintsathatching.co.za

www.cintsathatching.co.za

SHOWROOMS: Alberton (Browser’s Market, next to the new Makro) 011 907 3288 Randburg (Lifestyle Gardens) 011 792 9724

INTRODUCING DAYLIGHT EST. 1987

TONY SANDELL ROOF WINDOWS 12 FERNDALE DRIVE, SUNSET INDUSTRIAL PARK OTTERY, 7800, CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA TEL: (021) 704 1122/3/4 FAX: (021) 704 1110 CELL: 082 412 4874 EMAIL: info@tsrw.co.za

www.tsrw.co.za

No more maintenance No fire hazard Lower insurance premiums Always looks neat Traditional thatch look inside Contact us: 083 990 6372 www.gr8thatch.co.za

WINDOWS

Tony Sandell Roof Windows Centre pivot roof windows

ony Sandell Roof Windows is the sole South African manufacturer of centre pivot roof windows and has 25 years experience in the roof window industry. TSRW has developed a roof window which is specifically suited to the harsh South African conditions and to date they have fitted over 40 000 roof windows nationwide. Previously marketed as SOLIS, TSRW is known to most South African architects who have supported and specified our product over the past two decades. With the recent upsurge in green building practices, TSRW finds itself in an envious position to be a leader in servicing the residential market.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

KEEPING

THATCH

TOGETHER BENEFITS OF SISAL TWINE: Natural fibres Eco-friendly Durable and high tensile strength Sustainable and 100% biodegradable Manufactured in South Africa

By specifying roof windows, the architect can easily and elegantly introduce natural light into an otherwise dark area, saving on electricity and allowing for extra ventilation when needed. This is especially evident in thatch houses where the thatch dormers can block out the entry of natural light. The windows are easily fitted during the thatching process, but can also be retrofitted if necessary. Glazing options include anti-sun grey (ASG), PVB laminates and Low E Double Glazing. Further special glazing requirements can also be met. At TSRW our handcrafted sub-frames are made from solid hardwood for increased durability, and finished in natural varnish or white. The exterior frames are clad in corrosion- and fade-resistant charcoal aluminium (PVF2 Coated), which, together with the flashing kits, are all roll-formed and pressed. All joints are double-seamed to ensure a completely waterproof seal. Screws and hinges are of stainless steel. A wide range of standard sizes is available with specials made to order. Our mechanical aluminium flashings systems fit all roofs and have a unique adaptor for all thatch roofs. A large volume of our sales are to the thatch industry, which has specified TSRW products since the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inception.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: (t) 021 704 1122/3/4 (c) 082 412 4874 (e) info@tsrw.co.za (w) www.tsrw.co.za

CONTACT:

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

(t) 086 111 44 61 (International +27152237051) (e) sales@rebtexrsa.com (w) www.rebtexrsa.co.za

THATCHING TWINE

Photo by Insulinde.

Keeping it together Ensure thatching success by using optimal twines. Thatched roofs are an icon of South Africa's outdoor lifestyle, particularly in the wild bush where they offer shelter from the searing heat in the summer and warmth in the winter.

urviving in the harsh South African conditions is no easy task, yet according to the Thatching Association of South Africa (TASA), the life expectancy of a professionally thatched roof is between 20 to 30 years. A key component in achieving this life expectancy rests in the quality of the materials used combined with the skill of trained installers. The focus of this article is on the importance of using the correct thatching twine to keep each bundle in place successfully. There is a proliferation of products on retailers’ shelves of various ‘thatching twines’ or ‘tarred twines,’ but little comparative information available helping the thatcher to make the correct decision regarding the best product to purchase. Not all twines are equal to this task.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

THERE ARE TWO VALUABLE THATCHING GUIDELINES: The SABS (South African Bureau of Standards) plays a major role in developing standards that guide and govern good building practice throughout the industry. Included in these is the SABS standard for thatched roof construction (SANS 10407:2006), which clearly states under the Binding section 4.2.3 relevant to thatching twines: “The materials used shall be tar-treated sisal twine or stainless steel wire with a diameter of between 1mm and 1.2mm.”

THATCHING TWINE

The Thatching Association of South Africa Thatching Guide (www.sa-thatchers.co.za), a comprehensive guide available for free off the association’s website, refers to ‘tar treated sisal’ whenever a reference is made to thatch binding. Two of the products many retailers sell purportedly for thatching are twines made from jute (labelled as ‘tarred twine’) and polypropylene (labelled as ‘thatch twine’). Neither of these products is suitable for the application, nor are they specified by either the Thatching Association of South Africa or the SABS. Both the jute and the polypropylene twines’ breaking strength is approximately 20kg, a third of the breaking strength of tarred sisal twine and hence do not offer the long-term lifespan expected of a thatched roof. In addition, polypropylene’s major drawback in this application is that its elasticity causes it to stretch and hence not hold the grass in place tightly enough. Tarred sisal twine is the preferred and specified product for a number of reasons: Its tensile strength of 60kgs secures the straw during installation and helps it survive in outdoor environments. Tarred sisal twine has a maximum elongation of 2%, ensuring the tension applied by the thatcher during installation will be maintained throughout the life of the roof. The sisal twine is impregnated at a high temperature, ensuring maximum penetration and prolonging the lifespan of the twine and its resistance to rotting and attack by insects. Notwithstanding that tarred sisal twine is the only specified twine by SABS and the SATA when compared to other ‘nonspecified’ products, tarred sisal twine is competitively priced on a cost-per-metre basis. Stainless steel wire is an excellent product, but in comparison to tarred sisal twine, there are three areas of concern. Firstly, the wire cost is significantly more per metre than the tarred sisal twine. Secondly, stainless steel wire is at odds with the natural fibre appearance that is usually the draw card for customers who are after a natural look. Thirdly, when using stainless steel wire in an installation, thatchers must ensure it meets fire control standards relative to lightning conductors. For many decades, home builders have been using sisal tarred twine to secure the roofs of their precious homes. Tarred sisal twine has truly stood the test of time and is worthy of its position as the only recommended product by the SABS and SATA. The Unicord brand is manufactured in Seshego, South Africa for South African conditions and is marketed by Rebtex. If the product packaging does not say it is tarred sisal twine, it is not the real thing.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: (t) 0861 114 461 (e) sales@rebtexrsa.com

Unicord Tarred Sisal Twine 500g, Unicord Tarred Sisal Twine 1kg, Unicord Tarred Sisal Twine 2kg. // AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

NEWS

The lodge stands as an exemplary testament to maintaining the beauty of wood in its natural form through the use of Tanapole™ wood preservation products.

Tanapole showcased at the TM

tropical paradise of Cova de Tubarao Best described as a 'tropical paradise,' Cova de Tubarao Lodge, situated on Macaneta Island off Mozambique, has been announced by Lonza Wood Protection as the second winner in their 'Keep The Tanapole Flying High' Ambassador Programme.

esigned and constructed three years ago by the owners, Roelie and Louise Jacobs, the lodge stands as an exemplary testament to maintaining the beauty of wood in its natural form through the use of Tanapole™ wood preservation products. Despite humid sub-tropical conditions and extreme exposure to the natural surrounding environment of Macaneta Island, Cova de Tubarao proudly showcases four magnificent log chalets, sun-kissed sundecks and a beautiful display of timber construction and wood finishes throughout.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

Plans to further expand the lodge are also currently under way with new developments that include a house called Plaashuis, a campsite called Roelize Lodge and a threestorey building called Beenbek. Roelie and Louise Jacobs, who are also the owners of Graskop Pale treatment plant that supplied the Tanapole™ treated poles, explain why using quality treated wood for the construction of Cova de Tubarao was of the utmost importance: “Wood decay and insect attack in a coastal climate such as ours is always a major concern. We are pleased at how well the wood has performed over the past three years, thanks to the Tanalith™ C wood preservative applied under the H4 treatment specification.”

NEWS

Cova de Tubarao Lodge is the second winner in the Lonza Wood Protection ‘Keep The Tanapole Flying High™’ Ambassador Programme.

The wood used for the decking, cladding and plywood was sourced from various suppliers in South Africa and all the thatching, reed and reed grass were soured from the local market on Macaneta Island. The four log chalets were constructed in various ways using solid treated poles for the uprights and the walls. Plywood was also used for the flooring in some chalets, as well as for the decking. Thanks to his extensive industry knowledge and experience, Roelie successfully overcame many challenges during the construction phases, which he explains, “The poles had to be transported from our treatment plant by truck to the ferry where they were off-loaded by hand then re-loaded onto a tractor and trailer for their final destination to the lodge, where they were again off-loaded by hand. As the lodge was built entirely on sand dunes, the main construction poles had to be planted two metres deep, taking into careful consideration the environmental preservation of the sand dunes and vegetation.” Lonza Wood Protection Marketing Manager, Gerard Busse, adds, “Poles need to be correctly treated to protect against fungal decay, woodborer and termites. Tanalised™ C, Tanalised™ Weatherwood™, which includes a special water repellent and Tanalised™ E, Copper Azole treatment, marketed collectively under the Tanapole™ brand, meet all these stringent requirements of wood preservation.”

Tanapole™ products treated H4 are covered by a 15-year guarantee against insect attack and fungal decay. All Tanapole™ products are treated according to SANS 10005 – The Preservative Treatment of Timber and meet the product SANS 457-2 product specifications for Eucalyptus poles, droppers and guardrail. The full terms and conditions of the 15-year Tanalised™ wood preservative treatment guarantee can be viewed at www.tanapole.com/ sa. As the second winner of the ‘Keep The Tanapole Flying High™’ competition, Cova de Tubarao wins either an advert or advertorial to the value of R10 000 in a publication of their choice, plus additional exposure in our social media and the Tiaan Tanapole™ website. In addition, they are automatically entered into the draw for the best overall story where they stand a chance to win their choice of an Amazing Race Team Build, a state-of-the-art Hitachi Interactive White Board bundle or a holiday for two to Mauritius. There are still four submission entry opportunities until the competition closes on 31 October. For further information, visit the website at www.tanapole.co.za or follow the campaign on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tiaantanapolesa and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Tanapole.

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

THATCH FIRE SAFETY

Thatch and fire What you need to know

structure with a thatched roof is arguably the most emotive and sensory of all architectural styles. Is it the earthy aroma of the dried grass radiating silent warmth, the space and light created by allowing the roofing structure to be incorporated into the living areas or the tactile nature of the thatched layer which invokes a primal sense of wellbeing and safety? The characteristics which make thatched roofing so popular are also responsible for many of the risks posed by owning a thatched property. Chief amongst those potential risks is fire. The recent large-scale fires, such as the St. Francis Bay tragedy, have once again highlighted how devastating fire to a thatched roof can be.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

One of the most popular preventative measures is the application of a fire retardant to a thatched roof. Properly evaluated fire retardants work during the initial phase of burning, working and reacting to contain the spread of flame, securing and controlling the affected area until a flashover occurs. When fire retardants are utilized the flashover will take an extended period of time. The same occurs when fire retardants are used on a thatched roof. The affected areas where ignition occurs will be controlled and secured and the fire retardant coating/chemical will burn out, allowing flashover to occur. When this happens the fire will grow and consume more of the fuel. Once this happens again the fire retardants will again control and secure the affected areas until the coating/chemical has been burnt out. And so the process repeats itself.

THATCH FIRE SAFETY

ONE OF TWO THINGS MAY HAPPEN NEXT: 1. The ignition source may effectively wear out, taking heat out of the equation, and the fire will self-extinguish.

Fire can start from either the interior or exterior of the structure's roof. Most commonly, fires begin on the exterior.

2. FIRE FIGHTING

2. The process will slowly continue repeating itself until the heat source and available fuel outweigh and overpower the fire retardant capabilities, finally flashing over into a fully developed fire.

A thatched roof fire, once established, will burn in temperatures in excess of 1 000°C and, as such, fighting a thatched roof fire carries a high risk of injury for firemen and the general public involved in combating the fire.

Whatever the outcome, utilizing properly evaluated fire retardants will add valuable time during which to evacuate the premises and contact emergency services.

CHALLENGES OF FIGHTING A THATCH FIRE:

That said, all fire retardants are not made equal and it is very important that all products should be backed up by comprehensive test reports which conform to the South African National Standard 10407:2006 – Thatch Roof Construction Specification. All fire-related products need to be tested to the ASTM – E 108 test method, which covers the following protocols: a) Intermittent flame exposure test b) Spread of flame test c) Burning brand test d) Flying brand test Having a fire retardant product applied to your roof which has been tested to only one or two of the above protocols is not sufficient to ensure that the roof is properly protected or that insurance will cover it in the event of a fire.

1. FIRE AND THATCH

• Pouring water onto a thatched roof is somewhat ineffective, as a thatched roof is designed to repel water. • The insulating properties of thatch counteract the cooling benefit of water. Once established, a thatched fire can be sustained by oxygen diffusing beneath the roof. • Wire netting on the outside of the roof adds to difficulties in dealing with the thatched fire. • In remote locations, water pumps will be turned off or tripped with the electricity in event of a fire. • In remote locations access to the thatched roof fires may be difficult. • While it may seem that the fire has been extinguished, the grass and timber can continue to smoulder and flare up again. • Thatched roof fire-fighting techniques are specialised and expert knowledge of these are necessary to effectively and safely combat the fire.

THE FIRE TRIANGLE:

Whilst thatch roof fires make up a small portion of all fire incidents reported in South Africa, it is important to note that once established, the majority of thatched roof fires that do occur lead to a total loss of the roof and very often result in extensive damage to the whole structure. Fires seldom occur while the property is unoccupied, are most frequently detected in the late evening and are most commonly attributed to sparks or burning brands from chimneys.

THATCHED ROOF FIRES CAN ALSO ORIGINATE FROM: • Arson • Electrical short circuit • Lightning • Veld fires • Bonfires

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

THATCH FIRE SAFETY

The fire triangle is a simple model for understanding the ingredients necessary for most fires. The triangle illustrates that a fire requires three elements: heat, fuel and an oxidizing agent (usually oxygen). The fire is prevented or extinguished by removing any one of these. A fire naturally occurs when the elements are combined in the right mixture. Without sufficient heat, a fire cannot begin and it cannot continue. Without fuel, a fire will stop. Fuel can be removed naturally, as in the case where the fire has consumed all the burnable fuel, or manually, by mechanically or chemically removing the fuel from the fire. Without sufficient oxygen, a fire cannot begin, and it cannot continue. With a decreased oxygen concentration, the combustion process slows. The reason why a thatched roof fire burns with such intensity is mainly due to the fact that the above three factors are present in abundance.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

Heat: Can originate in any of the above thatch fire origination examples. Fuel: A thatched roof structure is made up of strands of grass and reed bound together on a timber frame. Oxygen: Is available all around us.

THATCH FIRE SAFETY

3. FUEL Fuel (dried grass and timber) is the main reason why thatched roofs burn with such intensity. This is why the most effective way of combating thatched roof fires is to cut out the thatched layer and make a fire break, removing the fuel from the triangle. The importance of the quality of the thatching in relation to its performance in a fire cannot be understated. Maintaining the structural integrity of the building is the single most important aspect when it comes to the fire safety and performance of a thatched roof under fire conditions.

The time frame for the entire process can be anywhere between ten minutes and a couple of hours, all depending on conditions like: • Weather conditions (wind, rain) • Source of the fire (electrical, arson, lightning) • Condition of the thatched roof • Size of the structure • Quality of thatching and structural work • Compaction of thatched layer • Quality of grass • Age of thatched roof • Emergency service reaction time

The compaction of the thatch plays an integral part in the effectiveness of the thatch to withstand the exposure to heat. When tightly packed, the effect is similar to burning telephone books. The lack of oxygen in feeding the fire can delay its development and propagation. In areas where the thatch is not compacted, the oxygen flow in between the strands of grass assists in the propagation of the fire. Once the fire has developed through the thatched layer it will attack the twine or binding material. This will serve to loosen the thatched layer from the lath and batten poles, again allowing oxygen to feed the fire. Burning embers will drop to the floor alighting household contents below and starting a reaction of fire different to what is happening on the roof.

The extent of the damage of a Thatchsayf-treated structure after a lightning strike at the David Livingstone Safari Lodge.

Due to the size of the lath poles, their resistance to fire is not as resolute as the larger timber supports, like the rafters and king poles. The fire will continue to burn with increasing intensity burning all available and susceptible grass, until all available fuel is consumed. By now only the ‘bone work’ of the structure should be remain, while the fire consumes the timber until total collapse.

The burnt out shell of an untreated thatch roof building.

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

THATCH FIRE SAFETY

4. FIRE RETARDANTS It must be noted that fire retardants do not make thatch fire proof. Fire retardants are a form of passive fire protection, developed to halt the propagation and lower the radiated heat output of a fire. Fire retardants have been used since the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;50s on a broad spectrum of materials with their efficacy improving over time. The difference between fire retardants on most other substances, like structural steel, electrical cables, and plastics, etc. and thatch is that thatch is a living and breathing organism, whose breakdown and decay is inevitable.

It has also been proven through testing by the CSIR Process Biotechnology Programme that Micon fire retardants do not support the growth of fungal infestations. The results show that there is no visible difference between Micon Thatchsayf and untreated panels and that the incidence of fungal growth is significantly lower on Thatchbor FR treated panels than untreated panels.

There is a widespread and unfounded belief among thatchers that the application of fire retardant chemicals can adversely affect the life expectancy of a thatched roof. All well formulated fire retardant chemicals will not hinder the breathing of the thatched roof that will expedite the decay of the thatched layer. This can be inspected at the CSIR FireLab premises. Thatched panels have weathered for over 16 years.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

The start of a fire test demonstration at the CSIR FireLab.

THATCH FIRE SAFETY

Fire retardants work in the initial phase of burning, working to contain the spread of flame, securing and controlling the affected area until flashover occurs. When fire retardants are utilized the flashover will take an extended period of time.

5. INSURANCE Since the massive claims from the St. Francis Bay fire, the insurance industry has subsequently become stricter in its requirements for thatched roof cover. We do recommend that all thatched roof owners go over their policy requirements to ensure that in event of an incident, they are fully covered. In many instances, having a properly evaluated fire retardant applied is a requirement, and in many instances can lead to lower insurance premiums. Other safety precautions, such as having smoke detectors installed, garden hoses which are able to reach all sections of the thatched layer, ladders, fire extinguishers, spark arrestors in chimney flues and cutting back vegetation close to the thatched layer can significantly reduce the risk of a total loss to your structure.

Micon Coatings has agents and applicators in all major centres throughout South Africa who are able to ensure that a proper evaluated fire retardant can be applied to all new and existing roofs. For further safety tips and advice, it is recommended that all thatched structure owners consult their local fire station.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: (t) 011 882 1443 (e) info@miconcoatings.co.za (w) www.miconcoatings.co.za

COMPANY PROFILE

Gemian Thatching An introduction to HarveyThatch product solutions HarveyThatch tiles can provide all the natural beauty of a traditional thatch roof without any of the hassle. Gemian Thatching Solutions is a licensed contractor for Harvey Roofing Products (HRP) and uses HarveyThatch tiles to provide customers with an ideal roofing solution. HARVEYTHATCH HarveyThatch tiles offer a maintenance-free, cost-effective and durable thatch-look exterior, without compromising on the warmth and character of the traditional thatch on the roof’s interior. HarveyThatch is ideal for both re-roofing and for new roofing applications. The HarveyThatch tile represents innovation in design and is made up of a tough, but flexible, lightweight steel roof tile coated with element-proof natural stone-chips, with an overall look that matches the natural appearance of thatch. This unique tile is based on the original HarveyTile, which has been specified for use on roofs throughout the world for the last three decades. In addition, HarveyThatch is covered by a 30-year manufacturer’s guarantee.

CHALLENGES OF NATURAL THATCH: Natural thatch roofs offer up a number of associated challenges including: • Natural degradation of grass (maintenance) • Damage caused by vermin and birds (maintenance) • Thatch and house being damaged by fire (fire risk) • High costs of fire retardants (fire risk) • Damage to roofs by strong winds, hail and rain (maintenance) • Being a lighting hazard requiring special conductors (lightning risk) HarveyThatch does not does not offer up any of these challenges. Gemian Thatch is a family-owned business with Christian values, which started doing business in 2006. The company strives to provide its customers with an honest service that is of the highest quality. Having started out as a regular thatching company, Gemian Thatch owners soon became aware of the opportunity in the market to overcome most of the challenges associated with thatch roofs and in 2007, the company completed its first HarveyThatch roof and is currently qualified as a licensed contractor with Harvey Roofing Products. Gemian Thatch focuses on HarveyThatch solutions because they are convinced that it is the best solution for the industry. The company provides complete solutions, for large or small projects and takes pride in the way that they execute installations. This workmanship is widely attested to by Gemian Thatch customers.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

COMPANY PROFILE

HARVEYTHATCH SPECIALISTS Gemian Thatch differentiated themselves in the market with the finishing quality of HarveyThatch products. The installation of the tiles on gum poles requires much attention, so as to ensure that the lines are 100% correct. The company pays special attention to detail to ensure a finished product of an excellent standard. The ridge is covered using the angle ridging that ensures that no water can penetrate the roof from above. Harvey Roof Products’ bender machine is used to bend the end of the tiles upwards, resulting in smooth edges and also ensuring that no water can penetrate the roof through the hips. Cover flashings are bent three times to seal the grass/reed at the bottom, ensuring that it stays in place and that the elements cannot remove it from the roof.

RE-ROOFING OF EXISTING ROOFS IS BENEFICIAL FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS: • Existing roof is retained • No disruption of the interior of the building • Existing grass remains in place and the old pieces of seeds that fall from the roof can be discarded • Easier installation – no need to strip all the grass

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: (c) 082 578 7056 (Riaan) (c) 082 326 6001 (Yolandé) (f) 086 520 8188 (e) info@gemian.co.za (w) www.gemian.co.za

thatching

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS No more Maintenance Lower Insurance premiums Low Fire Risk

HARVEY THATCH SPECIALISTS

timber home architectural design tel: 021 702 2968 | www.timberdesign.co.za

Contact Riaan: (c) 082 578 7056 (e) info@gemian.co.za

www.gemian.co.za

COMPANY PROFILE

Thatch Protection Services Fire is a major risk for thatch, and any thatch roofs or enclosed thatch buildings are therefore required by law to be fire protected.

further legal requirement is the issue of a Rational Design (a Fire Certificate issued by a competent person). This is needed when the thatch is within 4.5m from any boundary, or within 9m from any other building. Most insurance companies insist on fire protection, and may even give discounted rates if the thatch has been treated with a fire retardant. The use of an unsuitable fire retardant could result in the thatch rotting, and eventually the roof will be completely destroyed. Products used should be tested by the SABS, and accepted by all fire departments, as well as municipalities. Unfortunately, one of the challenges facing the local thatch fire protection industry is that there are more and more fire protection applicators entering the market, but due to the inconsistency in the testing methods of products, not all the products they use offer the results claimed on their packaging. Thatch Protection Services has been around for 20 years, and developed Supercote, a waterbased fire retardant to treat roofs, which has been tested by the SABS and is accepted by all fire departments and municipalities. Supercote is manufactured by SMP under licence in accordance with an SABS quality assurance programme. Supercote contains UV stable acrylic resins, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and fire resistant components. It is resistant to sunlight, fungus, bacteria and damage from animals and bugs. The product dries within an hour of application, from which time it is non-soluble. All the components are encapsulated in the hardened resins. Supercote slows down the aging process of grass, which doubles the lifespan of thatch and cuts maintenance costs. Supercote is non-toxic and not harmful to the health of humans or animals. Once dry, Supercote has no smell at all, and is foul tasting if the treated grass is chewed. Supercote is applied to the thatch with a highpressure spray gun and has the effect of binding grass strands together, which significantly reduces bird damage (and even monkey damage).

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

COMPANY PROFILE It also has the effect of overcoming poor compaction. An added benefit is that it prevents storm damage due to hail and wind. Supercote prevents flaming, allowing the grass to only smoulder, and any fire can then be extinguished by dryfoam extinguishers, which prevents water damage to contents. Supercote will, in many instances, reduce insurance costs, particularly domestic insurance. Supercote has undergone testing at SABS for long life (2000 hours of accelerated weathering equivalent to approximately 10 years). Current tests conducted on Supercote: • STM 182-1979 Resistance to laboratory artificial weathering of paint films for 1000 hours. • STM 182-1979 Resistance to laboratory artificial weathering of paint films for 2000 hours. • DIN 4102 Part 7 Fire behaviour of building materials and building components. Roof coverings, terminology, requirements and testing. • ASTM E108: 2000 Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests on Roof Coverings as required by section 8.2.3 of SANS 10407:2006 Thatched roof construction. This test is covered in two parts: intermittent flame exposure, as well as the spread of flame test and includes 10 minutes' exposure to continuous flame at 1 000°C.

THATCH PROTECTION SERVICES ALSO PROVIDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICES: • Designing and building of thatched roofs (lapas, houses and cottages). The building is done through highly qualified sub-contractors who are carefully chosen for their quality workmanship. • Rational Designs (Fire Certificate). Needed when the thatch is within 4.5m from any boundary or within 9m from any other building. • Engineering Certificates (for structure of roof). • Drawing up of plans and submission of plans (optional) (done by sub-contractors). • Project Management (if required – on a fee basis). • Lightning masts

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Kevin Heatlie (t) 011 422 4593 (c) 083 280 5021 (e) thatchprotection@mweb.co.za (w) www.thatchprotection.co.za

Thatch roof solutions that work Thatch Protection Services has protected over 900 000m2 of thatch since its inception in 1991. The company developed Supercote, a water-based fire retardant comprising stable acrylic polymer resins and anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and fire-resistant components.

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

APPLICATION

Supercote is non-toxic, giving specifiers an environment-friendly solution for extending the life of thatch roofs and cutting the cost of maintenance. The product dries to a clear finish and is professionally manufactured to ISO / SABS standards.

Supercote is applied to the thatch using a high-pressure spray gun to achieve penetration of approximately 4-5 cm. The coating overcomes poor compaction in order to reduce maintenance.

The product is very eﬀective against:

Projects: • Lion and Rhino Nature Reserve – Kromdraai, 1600m² • Hans Merensky Club – Phalaborwa, 8000m² • Caltex Bloemfontein, Colesburg, Van Reenen, 4 700m² • Shamwari Bush Lodge – 800m² Patterson, Eastern Cape • Pilansburg Airport, 1 000m² • Ivory Tree Lodge – Pilansberg Game Lodge, 2000m² • Sondela Nature Reserve – Bela Bela, 12 000m² • PheZulu Game Estate,11 500m² Bothashill, KZN

• Veld fires • Lightning • Fireworks • Dust-rain • Sand infiltration • Monkey damage • Bird damage • Storm damage

THATCH PROTECTION SERVICES

KEVIN HEATLIE - Tel: 011 422 4593 • Cell: 083 280 5021 • Fax: 011 422 6280 E-mail: thatchprotection@mweb.co.za Website: www.thatchprotection.co.za Head Office Johannesburg Kevin Heatlie kevin@thatchprotection.co.za 083 280 5021 011 422 4593

KZN Region Sean Tormey seantormey@gmail.com 082 297 6465

Eastern Cape Region Jenny Holmes amatolathatchers@ananzi.co.za 073 209 7996

Western Cape Region Gawie Swart gs@legendarythatching.co.za 082 419 9915

Mpumalanga Region Wimpie van Aardt sales@megapaint.co.za 082 576 5714

Hoedspruit Tania Erasmus te@zandspruit.co.za 015 793 1192

Also represented in: Namibia Zimbabwe Kenya Zambia

NEWS

Winner of the ‘Most Aesthetic Structure’ category: David Hoffman of Hoffman’s Thatching Specialists.

Lonza pays tribute to thatchers Lonza Wood Protection's long-standing commitment to the role and development of thatchers in the timber industry was recently highlighted by their sponsorship of the National Thatch Photo Competition, an exciting feature of the Thatching Association of South Africa (TASA) annual congress.

s a sponsor of the competition for a number of years, Lonza believes that TASA is a significant platform to acknowledge and applaud the role of thatchers in South Africa.

“The thatching industry plays a key role as an end-user of Tanalised™ treated poles. Our involvement therefore, in showcasing the remarkable talent and expertise of TASA members to the entire timber industry and to the public at large, has formed the foundation of a long and mutually beneficial relationship with TASA,” said Gerard Busse, Marketing Manager, Lonza Wood Protection.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

This year’s winning entries were Shaun Smith of Biggarsberg Thatchers for the ‘Largest Single Structure’ category and David Hoffman of Hoffman’s Thatching Specialists for the ‘Most Aesthetic Structure’ and ‘Most Funny Photo’ categories. TASA Chairman, Kosie Theunissen, announced at the congress that next year’s National Thatch Photo Competition would be expanded to include international entries. This announcement falls in line with TASA’s proud hosting of the 2014 International Thatching Society’s Congress and Thatching Fair, which will take place in the Western Cape from 4 to 8 February.

NEWS

“This is an excellent marketing platform for TASA that will involve all South African thatching contractors and stakeholders. Countries such as Japan, Austria, Sweden, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and the UK have already expressed their interest in attending and we are anticipating the arrival of close to 100 thatching contractors from all over the world,” concluded Theunissen.

CALL 0861 727 663 TO BOOK YOUR TIMBER iQ CLASSIFIED ADVERT.

5 MEGA QUALITY THATCHING

YEAR GUARANTEE

(PTY) LTD.

NEW THATCH ROOFS POLE STRUCTURES WOODEN PAR BEAM STRUCTURES MAINTENANCE ON ALL EXISTING THATCH ROOFS ‘SPAANSRIET’ CEILINGS PERGOLAS SKYLIGHT WINDOWS

TOP QUALITY. PERSONALISED SERVICE. VALUE FOR MONEY. CONTACT MARK:

078 840 7850 mark.thatching@gmail.com www.megaqualitythatching.co.za

RECENT NATIONAL AWARDS:

32 YEARS IN BUSINESS (t) 015 295 3879 (c) 082 808 2505 (e) lethatching@telkomsa.net Find us on facebook - LE-Thatching

2010: Winner – Best Pole Structure 2010: Winner – Lapas & Structures (100m² - 1000m²)

2011: Winner – Largest Single Structure 2013: Winner – Most Aesthetic Structure

www.hoffmansthatching.co.za

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Wooden poles for thatch roofs The lowdown on compliance

Specifiers, architects, builders and homeowners may or may not know this, but all wooden poles used in thatch roof construction must comply with the National Building Regulations and National Standards, as is the case with sawn structural timber used for conventional timber trusses.

n the case of wooden poles, SANS 10400-L, The application of the National Building Regulations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Part L: Roofs specifies that wooden poles used in the construction of a thatch roof shall comply to either SANS 457-2 or SANS 457-3, which are the national standards for softwood (pine) and hardwood (eucalyptus) poles respectively. These standards specify grading and preservative treatment requirements.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

The grading requirements set allowable limits on defects, such as sapwood, knots, checks or splits, crook and sweep, etc. These requirements, if below the allowable limit, could have either strength reducing, low preservative durability, or non-aesthetic influence on a given structure or project. The preservative treatment requirements cover the maximum allowable moisture content prior to treatment, as well as the minimum sapwood penetration and preservative retention required.

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Different hazard classes and end-use applications specified by the extent of the preservative treatment determine the intended use of poles, for example, H3 for above-ground (interior and exterior), H4 for in-ground contact and H5 for when upright poles in the thatch roof structure are planted directly in fresh water, for example, in streams, ponds, dams, etc. Compliance to SANS 457-2 and SANS 457-3 is controlled through compulsory third-party product certification by either the SABS or SATAS (South African Technical Auditing Services) and each pole shall bear marking information which includes detail of the manufacturer, reference to SANS 457 (457-S in the case of structural eucalyptus poles), the Hazard or H class, the SATAS or SABS quality mark and the year of manufacture. Poles treated and marked in accordance with SANS 1288 are not regarded as structural poles and therefore are not suitable for use in thatch roof structures.

The compulsory preservative treatment of wooden poles used in structures is also specified in A.13 of SANS 10400A , The application of the National Building Regulations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Part A: General Requirements, to prevent fungal and insect attack, which if used untreated will cause structural failure of the poles. This article was supplied by the South African Wood Preservers Association. For more information, visit www.sawpa.org.za.

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THATCH

The Thatchers Association of South Africa An overview

The establishment of the SANS 10407 (Thatched Roof Construction) specification, now incorporated into the SANS 10400 (National Building Regulations) gave rise to the revival of the Thatchers Association of South Africa (TASA).

his was considered necessary to ensure compliance to the regulations, as well as acting as a watchdog over the quality of workmanship of contractors. TASAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision is also to be recognized as the national mouthpiece for the thatching industry in South Africa, to gain recognition and obtain bargaining power for its members with financial institutions and insurers on both national and international levels.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

THATCH

Members of TASA are required to uphold this code of ethics, as a condition of their membership based on the following principles: • To act at all times with honesty, integrity, and responsibility and in the spirit of good faith. • To deal fairly and equitably with clients and other industry participants at all times. • Not to engage in any conduct which is unfair, harsh or unconscionable. • Not to engage in any practice which might tend to lower the standards applicable in the building and construction industry. • Compliance, not only with the law, but also with the industry standards of conduct prescribed in the statutory requirements. • Accountability for any transgressions of the code of ethics. • Promotion of an efficient, competitive and ethical building and construction industry. By our commitment to this code we provide our clients with the confidence that using a TASA member is the most professional and best way to build. We have an overriding philosophy that certain types of commercial behaviour are unacceptable and those who choose to participate in such undesirable practices have no place in today's construction industry. All who gain their livelihood from the industry have a duty to ensure that the code operates effectively.

ORGANISATION The country is divided into seven areas, each with its own regional committee. This provides a national presence and representation. The regions are overseen by a national executive council elected from the area members. TASA’s strength and effectiveness is dependent on its national and regional committees and all businesses related to the thatching of roofs, including structural engineers, architects, wood treatment companies, pole suppliers, etc. are welcome. TASA is also a member of The Wood Foundation and South African Wood Preservers Association (SAWPA). The TASA is also a ‘P’ member (member with voting rights) of some of the SABS technical committees responsible for the SANS 10400 series (National Building Regulations).

FOUNDER MEMBER OF THE INTERNATIONAL THATCHING SOCIETY (ITC) During a visit to Europe at the end of August 2011, Mr Abrie Visagie (national chairman at the time) was invited to attend the meeting of the Thatchers Associations of Northern Europe. This meeting took place on the island of Romo in Denmark. The thatching industries of England, Denmark, Sweden, Netherlands and Germany were represented by about 60 thatchers from these countries. South Africa was then invited to be part of the formation of the International Thatching Society.

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THATCH

“The Goal of the ITS is to establish knowledge and techniques that will bring the thatched roof from a roof for old and conserved houses to a modern roof, that can compete with other roofs, no matter which building it is used for.” – Joergen Kaarup from JTL (the biggest Danish organization for master thatchers). During 2012 a TASA delegation of thatching contractors attended the International Congress and Thatching Fair held in Germany. The 2014 event will be hosted by TASA and will be held in the Western Cape in February 2014.

THATCH - A GREAT PRODUCT Thatch is by far the most natural product to use on your roof, as it is harvested off the land and used without undergoing any processes to create an actual roof covering. With the high thermal values of thatch there is no need for any other products for insulation. Aesthetically, thatch is one of the most pleasing roof construction finishes, and there is no other product which has aesthetic and insulation properties quite like thatch, as a raw product, does. A thatch roof requires no guttering systems, fascias, ceilings and painting, making a thatch roof an arguably affordable roofing solution. By incorporating fire protection systems into the roof, insurance costs can also be brought down dramatically.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TASA, CONTACT: (c) 083 283 8429 (e) admin@sa-thatchers.co.za (w) www.sa-thatchers.co.za

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

for Sprinkler systems on thatch roofs Lower your insurance premiums by protecting your roof with water.

TFC Fire can assist with installation of full protection outside of roofs. BENEFITS: - Sprinklers effective to secure safety of roof - Permanent once-off treatment - Environmentally safe

Sales and service of fire extinguishers // Training in the use of fire-fighting equipment // Smoke detection systems // Dangerous goods training. CONTACT: (t) 018 469 1167 | 018 469 1885 (e) tlcfire@telkomsa.net (w) www.tlcfire.co.za

We are a member of TASA (No. GSA0800)

Thatch Fire Control 46 Joe Slovo Road, Freemanville, Klerksdorp

COMPANY PROFILE

Mega Quality Thatching A cut above

Mega Quality Thatching is involved in building new thatch roofs, erecting pole structures and wooden par beam structures, maintaining existing thatch roofs, installing 'spaansriet' ceilings, pergolas and skylight windows.

y selecting the best material for a particular project, whether for new structures or for maintenance purposes, Mega Quality Thatching is poised to deliver top quality projects with great service.

Mega Quality Thatching works by a philosophy of finishing one project at a time. Co-ordinated and overseen by the owner at all times, using the skills of permanent staff and not sub-contractors and using only the best available thatch, Mega Quality Thatching’s projects are a cut above and offer the best value for money.

ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS: In addition to thatch, Mega Quality Thatching makes use of ‘spaansriet’ for ceilings, too. This type of ceiling is popular and can be installed underneath a thatch roof, or any type of roof, for that matter. A laminated hessian blanket is installed between the roof and the reeds, which helps to reduce dust filtering through from the roof, helps keep the room temperature comfortable and still offers the natural atmosphere of a thatch roof.

TREATMENT: THATCH SELECTION: The owner has built solid relationships with select thatch growers over the years and can thus source the best quality thatch available for all projects. Thatch quality plays a significant role in the lifespan of a thatch roof and poor thatch will always result in constant, unnecessary maintenance and drastically reduces the lifespan of the roof.

We use a fire retardant cloth that is installed in between the thatch. Furthermore the treatment on the thatch itself is just to do the required maintenance on the roof where needed. This will ensure fewer maintenance intervals in the long run and increases the lifespan of the roof. A manual sprinkler system can also be installed. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT MARK DRESSELHAUS: (c) 078 840 7850 (e) mark.thatching@gmail.com (w) www.megaqualitythatching.co.za

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

Supplier of Timber Log Wall Systems, Solid and Half Logs, Decking, Poles, Pickets, Timber Balustrades, Flooring and Laminated Posts

Solid Log

T&G Half Logs

Contact details: Head Office & Factory Physical: 8 Fechter Street Knysna Industria Postal: PO Box 2385 Knysna, 6570

Email: timbaclad@telkomsa.net Web: www.timbaclad.com

Cell Francois: 082 411 0513 Cell Brett: 082 553 2822 Cell Kobus: 082 535 3397 Cell Dean: 083 671 4999 Fax: 044 382 6358

FURNITURE

The wood for the trees Wooden furniture has a beauty and sophistication that has stood the test of time and stands proud in any home, whether contemporary or traditional.

3. Melamine: This consists of particleboard that is covered in paper that’s been impregnated with melamine glue, and then pressed together creating a finished product.

KNOCK ON WOOD

4. Solid wood: Solid wood refers to solid natural timber that comes straight from a tree – it is simply cut into boards and crafted into various pieces of furniture.

nton Odendaal from Rochester offers a general overview on the benefits of genuine wood furniture.

Anton explains that there are four main types of wooden furniture, each with their pros and cons. These include: 1. Wood veneer: Wood veneer is a process where thin layers of real wood are glued onto the surface of an inferior surface, such as particleboard. 2. Paper veneer: Comprises sheets of real wood veneer that are applied to a paper backing in order to create a permanent bond that keeps the individual veneers together.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

MANUFACTURED WOOD VERSUS SOLID WOOD Furniture made from the first three types of so-called ‘wood’ are commonly known as manufactured wood products, and are often regarded as lesser quality than solid wood. This is because they tend to be more affordable to manufacture, often using wood waste product. This however, can be seen as a bonus as it’s an eco-friendly solution to an industry that can have quite a heavy carbon footprint.

FURNITURE

“Wood veneered into thinner layers and put onto a manufactured board backing made of wood waste means that far fewer trees need to be cut down compared to furniture made using expensive solid timer,” points out Anton, adding that the consumer has to dish out less when purchasing a manufactured wood furniture item as a result. “What people don’t realize, however, is that manufactured woods are often treated with chemicals to keep parasites away, and bonded with toxic adhesives,” warns Anton, who believes this negates the eco-friendly pros mentioned above.

He also points out that wood is a sustainable and renewable resource if it is harvested from sustainably managed forests and mills. Forests help the earth to sequestrate carbon and the farming of wood promotes forestation and timber economies. Lastly, genuine wood has a great rating with regards to recycling – it is 100% recyclable, and unlike the plastic found in veneers, it won’t harm the environment in any way when discarded. And while melamine is resistant to scratches, heat and discolouration, the actual veneer tends to succumb to the knocks and bumps. Also, repairs to veneered wood tend to be tricky, or sometimes impossible. “Because it’s inexpensive, it doesn’t really matter if the kids or pets damage it, but it does mean that you could continuously be writing off cheap furniture for new replacements, which will end up being more costly in the long run,” explains Anton. He believes that furniture made from manufactured wood are the kind of ‘here today gone tomorrow’ items – they do serve a purpose, but they really don’t compare to genuine wood furniture. Manufactured wood furniture also tends to look cheap as the designs rely heavily on trends, which can appear outdated after a while. Solid wood furniture on the other hand is more desirable as it tends to be more expensive, but you are guaranteed of quality craftsmanship – this combined with the natural beauty inherent in wood guarantees a timeless beauty that won’t date. “All you need to do is to look at the furniture that has stood the test of time – those solid wood classics that still look great, even after decades. You very rarely see furniture manufactured from engineered wood in antique stores,” explains Anton.

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

FURNITURE

If cared for correctly, wood can last for several decades and acquire value. “Sure, over time, solid wood furniture will get knocks and bumps, but they only add to the natural patina that develops over time, creating character and a more lived-in look,” nods Anton. He also points out that, unlike manufactured wood, solid wood can be sanded, repainted, polished and lovingly restored to its former glory. Anton believes wooden furniture is like comfort food for the home – warm and familiar: “What I love most is the honesty and integrity of furniture made with natural wood, as it adds real warmth to any home. It’s not just genuine wood’s good looks that inspire me though – solid wood furniture also offers supreme durability, longevity and classic style that often outlives its owners.” “It’s tempting to spend less money on inferior quality furniture, but beautifully crafted solid wood furniture, such as those pieces found at Rochester, have numerous benefits over other types, and as such we really believe it’s something homeowners should consider investing in, even if it’s just one or two pieces. Furniture made from solid wood are often the pieces that could one day become a treasured heirloom that gets passed on to loved ones instead of being replaced every few years,” concludes Anton.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

BRANDING FOR A YEAR! Trademax Publications’ popular Year Planners offer 19 advertisers on each planner a valuable, long-term branding opportunity to appear on an A1 (year-at-a-glance) Year Planner for 2014.

Advertise on one, two or all three of these highly visible and useful Year Planners at the low rate of R7500 + VAT per spot. Each year-end copy of SA Roofing, SA Affordable Housing and Timber iQ will be mailed with two branded Year Planners included – ensuring you reach your relevant audience well ahead of the Holidays and the New Year!

INSERTION SCHEDULE: November/December issue of SA Roofing – bookings close 18th October November/December issue of SA Affordable Housing – bookings close 18th October December/January issue of Timber iQ – bookings close 15th November

BOOKINGS NOW OPEN! Call: 0861 727 663 E-mail: info@trademax.co.za

FURNITURE

Swallow

by Francesco Citterio Swallow furniture is designed based on ancient techniques, using modern applications and the finished product is made from hardwoods, like ash and beech.

Swallow furniture can be easily assembled by manually slotting the pieces together. As with children’s games, a customer can easily create the shape they desire with their own hands, without needing to use glue or screws.

The design makes use of the dovetail joint, a very strong joint comprised of shaped ‘tails’ and ‘pins’ which interlock. Ash is used for the larger female tail and the beech for the smaller male pin.

Solid wood has always been a preferred natural material for furniture, as it is shock-resistant and durable. Solid wood is available in a variety of grains, colours and densities. Ash is a long-fibred, light-coloured, medium density wood that is found in the United States of America and Canada.

he Swallow design is comprised of two pieces of solid wood which have been shaped in different ways, and which can be alternated and put together in an infinite number of combinations to create unique furniture.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

FURNITURE

It is flexible enough for bending, and takes stain well. Ash is mainly used for furniture, such as chairs and stools. Beech is a heavy, pale-coloured, medium-to-hard wood found mainly in north-east United States of America and Canada. Beech has a high shock resistance and takes stains well, and is also used mainly for furniture such as chairs and stools.

SOURCES:

ABOUT THE DESIGNER:

Francesco Citterio Designer. [Online]. Available at http:// www.francescocitterio.it/html/info%20varie.html. [Accessed 26 August 2013].

Born in Lecco, Italy, on 15 March 1979. Graduated in 2001 at IED, Milan, currently a designer for Fendi Home.

Behance. 2012. Furniture design. Project by Francesco Citterio. [Online]. Available at http://www.behance.net/ gallery/SWALLOW/4621007. [Accessed 26 August 2013]. Frontgate. Know your Woods. [Online]. Available at http:// www.frontgate.com/wcsstore/images/Frontgate/ moreinfo/wood_types.html. [Accessed 26 August 2013].

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

THATCH ROOFING

Looking up Add dimension and spatial aesthetics to your home with natural thatch and wooden structures - cool in summer, insulated in winter and pleasing to look at all year round.

THATCH ROOFING

hatching can offer a relatively lowcost way to double-up on accommodation space, enabled by the required pitch of a thatched roof, whose loft area lends itself to being utilised for extra room.

YOUR DREAM THATCH TODAY Lucas Quality Thatchers liaise directly with clients, architects, engineers, property developers, project managers, builders and interior designers on an ongoing basis in order to deliver the best possible services and products. In thatching, the interior finish forms an integral part of the overall roof design and the Lucas Quality Thatchers design team is geared to introduce all clients to the many different internal structural options, including conventional and traditional designs, as well as a variety of timber treatments. With a conventional structure, the rafter poles are set closer together, which gives the interior a cosier, more distinctly ‘cottage’ feel. The clear timber treatment is ideal for those who find the normal dark poles a little too oppressive, particularly in smaller rooms. Protected by Lucas Quality Thatchers’ initiated SABS-approved pressure treatment, these light coloured poles impart a clean, natural wood look. Says Gabi Wuister, Marketing Manager of Lucas Quality Thatchers, “Currently trending is the light and breezy feel of a whitewashed pole and matching whitewashed tongue-and-groove ceiling, a great look for a lovely summery beach house or to match your ‘shabby chic’ furnishings.” She adds, “Of course, if clean lines and a more modern feel are required, a pine or poplar beam could be the answer. Pine lends itself towards a light, open feel and poplar has more character, but does have a tendency towards cracking, which is all part of its unique character. Matching ceilings often give that extra warm, wooden look and feel and provide even more insulation, keeping the space cool in summer, and warm in winter,” says Wuister, adding, “All our wood is pre-treated and requires no maintenance after installation.”

// AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013

THATCH ROOFING

BEATING FIRE Lucas Quality Thatchers continue to spend vast amounts of time and resources on furthering the research and development of this field and offer clients the following safety options: • Each project is approached individually and, if necessary, a Rational Fire Design is conducted. • Currently, the use of the Lucas Quality Thatchers fire blanket, in conjunction with a non-flammable binding material, still comes out tops with regards to cost and longevity. • A fully engineered manual drencher system, which can, at any time in the future, be updated to a state-of-theart automated system. These methods are all evaluated according to ASTM E108 standards, tested at Lucas Quality Thatchers’ own facilities.

LEAVING A LEGACY Established in 1980, Lucas Quality Thatchers is recognised as a premier international thatching company. Over the years, the business has spread across the length and breadth of South Africa and throughout neighbouring countries. Operations have also extended into the Middle East and the Mediterranean.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 //

SERVICES INCLUDE: • General thatching consultation • Thatch roof design, advice, and consultation • Building contractor liaison • Free quotations • Structural design by in-house professional structural engineers • Materials sourcing and supply • Professionally supervised carpenter and thatching teams • Low-cost thatched roof insurance • After-sales service, maintenance and extended guarantee • Theme park and ‘theming’ design and construction Wuister concludes, “Working in the time-honoured tradition of the English and Dutch Master Thatchers, we pride ourselves on being professional thatchers, not simply packers of thatching materials. Quality remains the cornerstone of every single thing we do.” For more information, visit www.lucasqualitythatchers.co.za.

PROMOTING TREATED TIMBER AND THE USE OF TREATED TIMBER PRODUCTS PRODUCED BY SAWPA MEMBERS CHOOSE THE CORRECT HAZARD (H) CLASS: H2 – Low Hazard: Inside above ground H3 – Moderate Hazard: Outside above ground H4 – High Hazard: Outside in ground H5 – High Hazard: Outside in contact with heavy wet soil or in fresh water H6 – High Hazard: Prolonged immersion in sea water H2

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SAWPA MEMBERS AND HOW TO CONTACT THEM, CONTACT: Tel: 011 974 1061 sawpa@global.co.za www.sawpa.org.za

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