SPECIAL REPORT: Industry software - TimberTrader …...wholesalers, traders or importers, share this goal. Timber Queensland shares this philosophy through its broad-based membership

NO. 362 // SEPTEMBER 2016

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PREPARING FOR A HIGH-TECH FUTURE

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SAP STAIN vs. MOULD AFFECTED TIMBER

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CORRECT USE OF ADHESIVES

Industrysoftware – Page 18

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SPECIAL REPORT:

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www.timbertradernews.com TIMBER TRADER NEWS / SEPTEMBER 2016 3

PUBLISHING DATAPublisher: Ian Brooks(02) 9126 [email protected]

Editor: Alison Turner(02) 9126 [email protected]

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Circulation: proprietors, managers andexecutives in all sectors of the timberand building materials industriesincluding merchants, building materialcentres, hardware stores, timber windowand door manufacturers, truss andframe manufacturers, timber flooringretailers, stair, balustrade and solidtimber furniture manufacturers andtheir associated suppliers and industryassociations throughout Australia.

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PERSONNEL

Sales Director:Julie McConachyPhone: 0409 381 [email protected]

PUBLISHERIan BrooksPhone: 02 9126 [email protected]

Having just moved to the Sunshine State from the icy depths of Canberra, it has

been heartening to experience the reality of the familiar slogan “beautiful one day, perfect the next”. Commencing in May as Chief Executive of Timber Queensland, working with industry and hosting the Doing Timber Business in Queensland conference has been an uplifting experience. It’s quickly become clear to me that the Sunshine State’s forest and timber industry, just like the weather, has a bright future.

Queensland’s timber industry directly supports 10,000 jobs and many more thousands along the value chain, returning $3.2 billion to the state’s economy. We have just come off the back of record state housing activity with 48,000 new dwellings last year. There is certainly more optimism in the air which we haven’t seen for a while, particularly following the lean years in the aftermath of the global financial crisis. We are at the top end of a building cycle, and the medium- to longer-term forecast is for continuing high demand for wood. New laws to allow taller timber buildings, increasing recognition of the renewability of timber and its low carbon footprint and innovations in wood technology all bode well for the future.

However, we are also seeing signs of easing activity from previous high levels and this growth has not been uniform across the state. It’s been strongest in the south-east of Queensland, particularly in greater Brisbane, while other areas such as central and northern Queensland have seen more recent year-on-year declines in building activity.

The strong trend towards mid- to high- residential construction also presents opportunities in prefabrication and new building systems, but as we all know presently uses less wood per square metre than a detached house. Then there are the ever-present threats from our competitors in steel, concrete and other new composite products. This is on top of the broad array

With Mick Stephens, Chief Executive, Timber Queensland

TALKIN’ TIMBER

Abbey Timber ..................................................... 8AKD Softwoods ............................................... 35Australian Sustainable Hardwoods Pty Ltd ........ 6Bliss & Reels Pty Ltd ....................................... 39Hundegger ......................................................... 9Hyne Timber .............................................. 21, 29 Ironbark ............................................................ 24

McCormack’s Hardwood Sales .................... 5, 41 MiTek Australia Ltd ................................ 38, OBCMultinail Australia Pty Ltd ................................ 40Outdoor Timber Treatment ............................... 30Pryda ...............................................................IFC Timberlink ........................................................ 31Timbersmart .................................................... 23

Vekta Automation .......................................... IBCVesta Central ................................................... 22Vida Wood ........................................................ 33 Willdoo IT ......................................................... 25 Wrights Forest Products .................................. 43

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX – SEPTEMBER 2016

“It’s imperative that we all work together to promote the use of timber as the world’s miracle material!”

of government regulations, standards and policies which affect the costs of doing business across the supply chain.

That is why it’s imperative that we all work together to focus on our primary goal – to promote the use and consumption of timber as the world’s miracle material!

Everyone in the supply chain, whether they be forest growers, harvesters, haulers, processors, fabricators, manufacturers, wholesalers, traders or importers, share this goal. Timber Queensland shares this philosophy through its broad-based membership and focus on growing the market.

In 2016-17, Timber Queensland will continue to pursue market growth through technical events with end users, input on building standards and a new initiative targeting state and local government on “wood first” procurement policies. Timber Queensland is also the primary port of call with the state government on key issues affecting the industry, from wood supply and environmental policy through to transport regulation, timber standards, infrastructure, energy and trade policy, to name a few.

I therefore encourage timber traders and those involved in the industry supply chain to become more engaged. It’s only by presenting a strong and unified industry voice that bodies such as Timber Queensland can have an impact and capture the opportunities where they may shine.

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4 TIMBER TRADER NEWS / SEPTEMBER 2016 www.timbertradernews.com

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CONTENTSRegularsTalkin’ timber 3State of the industry 5

Association updateAssociation news 7

NewsNews update 10News feature 16

What’s new? 14

Feature articlesGet with the program 18 Clear the decks! 26

Watt about the workpace 45

TimberFloor NewsNWFA warning to consumers and contractors 34

Brice on boardsUsing adhesives 36

AutoBuild NewsFabricator profile – Pine Design Truss and Timber 38 Fabricator profile – Trussfab 40

FTMA newsletterWith Kersten Gentle 42

GN guidelinesInternal supports 44

Truss talk With Paul Davis 46

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DON’T MISS AN ISSUE - SUBSCRIBE TODAY!TimberTrader News is the industry’s top resource, including sector news, profiles on industry personalities and in-depth features.12 month subscription is only $99. www.timbertradernews.com/subscribe

AUSTRALIA’S MOST RELEVANT AND WELL-LOVED TIMBER INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

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State of the Industry August 2016Results from August show a general decrease in budget performance in comparison to last month

44% ExceededAUGUST: 13% Made 38% Just missed 6% Missed badly

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KEY FINDINGSPerformance against budget

• 57% made or exceeded budget (32% lower compared to July) – consisting of medium businesses (56%) and small businesses (44% ).

• 44% either missed budget or missed budget badly – consisting of medium business (71%) and small business (2%).

Staff hires• 31% employed more staff (6%

decrease compared to July). Of the companies who employed more staff, 60% exceeded their budget.

• 63% reported no changes (10% higher compared to July).

• 6% reduced staff (5% higher compared to July). Of the companies who reduced staff, all exceeded budget.

METROPOLITAN vs. REGIONALThe majority of survey respondents for August were located in Victoria (38%), New South Wales (38%) with respondents also from Queensland and Tasmania.

50% of respondents were from a metropolitan area. Of these 63% made or exceeded budget (18% lower than July). Whereas 50% of respondents were from a regional area and of these, 51% made or exceeded budget (49% lower than July).

Profile of survey participants this month

The participants for the August survey

included Frame and Truss Fabricators (56%), followed by Merchants (19%) and Wholesaler/ Supplier/ Machinery/ Services (13%) with respondents also being Flooring Retailers and/or Contractors and Joinery/ Windows/ Stairs/ Balustrades/ Cabinetry.

PARTICIPANT COMMENTSReason for poor budget performance: influence of the weather.

Reason for making budget: “new contract.”

How does the market look: “talking to my customers, they believe Sydney metro will be strong for the next three years.”

Cause for concern: “The increasing use of steel floor systems as well as steel framing.”

This survey is a guide only as to the ‘state of our industry’.

Sample size for August: 16

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GoodWood is tailored to provide you the timber that you want, prepared as you need it, with a massive size range of sawn and dressed timbers. And we can laminate, finger joint or reprocess larger, smaller, longer and shorter options upon request, all delivered to you by professional and reliable distribution networks around Australia and the world. GoodWood. The market’s best appearance-grade timber. Time to step up.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

TABMA Colin Fitzpatrick

TABMA Management recently presented to the TABMA Australia National Board of Directors a Strategic Plan for the 2016/17, 2017/2018 and 2018/19 fiscal years.

The plan provided an overview of the current structure and operations of the TABMA Group of businesses together with an overall assessment against a SWOT analysis and an analysis of the industry and competitors.

TABMA is unique in that it is a timber industry association with a national presence representing merchants, retailers, suppliers, manufacturers, frame and truss fabricators, wholesalers and importers.

TABMA members receive access to a range of benefits that include government representation at both state and federal levels, networking opportunities, development of labour resources through the TABMA Apprentices & Trainees division (GTO), training of trainees and fee for service training of employees through the FITEC Australia division (RTO) and a valuable new member service that is included in the membership annual fee – TABMA’s Workplace Advice Line whereby members can call a 1300 number to obtain instant advice on annual and long service leave, wage rates, termination of employment, workers compensation, discrimination and harassment etc. TABMA also offers a competitively priced WH&S inspection service, group buying discount arrangements and permanent and part time staff placements through a recruitment division.

Our credit information bureau, Building Trade Credit (BTC) provides a valuable service to suppliers of credit in the building and construction industry. The database has annual credit sales of over $6 billion.

Timber Tallying Pty Ltd provides a unique break bulk handling and distribution service based at Port Kembla, NSW for the importers of American West Coast Timber.

TABMA as a group now directly employs 27 people nationally and has over 260 apprentices and trainees placed in every state of the nation.

It’s likely that increased positions for field officers, contract trainers and

“From humble beginnings in 1940, TABMA has morphed into a dynamic and progressive business organisation.”P

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administration support staff will be required over the next three years to assist in sustaining our projected growth.

TABMA’s culture is founded upon five core values: Service, Professionalism, Leadership, Integrity and People.

From humble beginnings in 1940, TABMA has in recent years morphed into a dynamic and progressive business organisation meeting the needs of its members and the timber industry in general.

TTIA Brian Beecroft

Leave changes to modern awards As part of the four-yearly modern award review, the Fair Work Commission has now issued a Full Bench decision amending most modern awards in the following areas:• cashing out annual leave;• taking annual leave in advance;• managing large (“excessive”) annual

leave balances; and• payment for annual leave.

These changes will apply from the first pay period on or after July 29, 2016. Most modern awards will be amended to include these changes, including the Timber Industry Award 2010. Should you wish to check if these changes apply to your

particular award, please contact the TTIA.

Cashing out annual leaveMost modern awards will now allow employees to cash out annual leave so long as:• an employee has at least four weeks’

annual leave left after cashing out;• there is a signed written agreement

between the employer and employee;• the maximum amount of annual leave

that is cashed out does not exceed two weeks within a period of 12 months.

Taking annual leave in advanceMost modern awards now allow employees to take annual leave before they have accrued it if their employer agrees in writing. The agreement needs to:• state how much annual leave is

to be taken in advance;

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• be signed by both the employer and the employee; and

• state the date on which the leave will commence.

The Timber Industry Award 2010 will include examples of the agreements required for cashing out annual leave and taking annual leave in advance.

Managing excessive annual leave balancesThe rules about what happens if an employee has accumulated an excessive annual leave balance have been changed in some awards. Excessive annual leave is when an employee has accumulated

at least eight weeks of leave (or 10 weeks for a shift worker).

Direction by employerIf an employee has an excessive annual leave balance and can’t agree with an employer on when to take it, the employer can:• direct the employee, in writing, that

they must take one or more periods of their annual leave; and

• give the employee at least eight weeks’ notice (and not more than 12 months) of when the leave will start.

Request by employee for leaveSome awards have a new clause allowing

ASSOCIATION UPDATE

employees with excessive annual leave balances to give their employer written notice to take one or more periods of paid annual leave. An employee can only give a notice to their employer if the employee has had an excessive leave accrual for more than 6 months. Please note this clause will not take effect until July 29, 2017.

Payment for annual leaveSome awards say that annual leave has to be paid before an employee starts leave. A new clause will provide that if an employee is paid by electronic funds transfer (EFT), they can continue to be paid using their usual pay cycle during periods of leave.

Members can give the TTIA Hotline a call if they have any questions about the above (02 9264 0011). TTIA will be running national membership seminars later in the year dealing with these specific changes.

Members can give the TTIA Hotline a call if they have any questions about annual leave.

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NEW PRODUCT ON THE MARKET? BIG NEWS? DON’T KEEP IT TO YOURSELF!

If you are launching a product or your business has an industry announcement, send it through to [email protected] for the chance to be featured here.

NEWS IN BRIEF

INDUSTRY NEWS

For the first time in the awards’ 21-year history, a one-of-a-kind

multi-residential development has been awarded Building Design of the Year in the 21st annual BDAV Building Design Awards organised by the Building Designers Association of Victoria (BDAV).

Designed by renowned building design firm EME Design (Collingwood), Artisan Apartments in Heidelberg is a standout project with an unusual orientation, nestled among established trees on the edge of parklands near the vibrant shopping strip in Heidelberg.

Many aspects of environmental sustainability have been considered, including excellent solar access to

balconies and living areas in conjunction with internal thermal mass, natural daylighting that penetrates deep within the building, renewable Australian timbers, efficient lighting selection to apartments, sensor-activated LED and

fluorescent lighting to all public spaces, well-insulated building fabric, efficient water saving plumbing fixtures and a 20,000 litre rainwater collection tank.

Timothy Ellis, chair of the judging panel, said the project addresses the growing demand for sustainable

medium-density living apartments with a diversity of plan layouts and sizes.

“The team at EME Design have designed for the future, creating a true exemplar of sustainable living and ticking all the boxes in a convincing and credible manner,” he says.

Lead designer Luke Middleton said the Artisan Apartments is a serious alternative to traditional suburban living, designed to bridge a gap in the market for people wanting to live in smaller, quality homes in established suburbs.

“The inspiration behind the design was our commitment to a more sustainable model for increased densification, and by the client’s desire for exemplary design that supports and encourages a neighbourly community within the building,” he says.

Other awards of note include the award for Excellence in Use of Timber, which was awarded to Designers by Nature for their Battery Point project in Port Fairy; and Excellence in Use of Timber (Commendation) was awarded to Dig Design for their Agnes 4 project in Yarraville.

The BDAV Building Design Awards profiles excellence in building design and promotes the importance of the building design profession to both the building industry and the wider community. For a full list of winners, visit bdav.org.au or contact the BDAV on (03) 9416 0227.

The 2016 BDAV Building Design Awards are proudly sponsored by BlueScope Steel, Victorian Building Authority, Wood Solutions and Webber Insurance Services.

Designing for the future8-Star energy rating apartments in Heidelberg named Building Design of the Year

Clockwise from top: Artisan Apartments in Heidelberg; Agnes 4 project in Yarraville; Battery Point project in Port Fairy.

TTN362_10-13_news in brief.indd 10 19/08/2016 4:43 PM


NEWS IN BRIEFP

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Sydney Timber Trade Golf Day

The Sydney Timber Trade Golf Days began in

the 1930s and progressed through the decades to grow to hosting over 200 golfers twice a year in the 1960s and ‘70s every March and October. During those decades the day was run by a timber industry icon – the late Arthur Clegg – who was well known as a storyteller of note. Arthur passed on the baton to the Sydney Hoo Hoo Club in the early

1990s to ensure the tradition was continued and the club, along with a small band of members, is proud to carry the tradition on.

We have named the Arthur Clegg Cup in his memory for our Stableford Golf Days, held every two years. Our next day is for The Brian Hatch Timber Shield in the format of a four-person Ambrose competition, held on the alternate years, to be held at:

Muirfield Golf ClubPerry St, North Rocks NSWTuesday, October 1111am registration, 12:30pm tee-off

All the usual competitions of Ambrose Golf days are included and anybody associated with the timber industry in any way is invited to attend.Contact Keith Johnston at kjwoodproducts@ ozemail.com.au or call 0407 004 410.

The NSW Renovation Consumer Price Index (RCPI) for FY16 Q4

Industry FY16 Q4 FY15 Q4 %

change YoY

Building and renovations $64.66 $59.46 8.7%

Carpentry $62.83 $54.43 15.4%

Concreting $86.85 $92.50 -6.1%

Electrical $68.45 $64.90 5.5%

Flooring $39.07 $41.14 -5.0%

Landscaping $62.98 $63.33 -0.6%

Painting $46.82 $43.95 6.5%

Plastering $51.14 $49.07 4.2%

Plumbing $77.52 $77.81 -0.4%

Tiling $52.18 $47.00 11.0%

Average combined $60.25 $59.76 0.8%

Master Builders welcomes rate cut

Master Builders Australia welcomes the Reserve Bank’s (RBA) decision to further cut the official interest rate by 25 basis points to1.5 percent.

“Master Builders endorses the RBA’s view that today’s rate cut represents a low risk of fuelling a house price surge given the additional prudential measures imposed on the banks by the RBA and the tougher lending criteria being applied by the banks themselves,” says Wilhelm Harnisch, CEO of Master Builders Australia.

“The rate cut will help maintain confidence in the new housing market which has been a ray of sunshine in the economy, particularly in sustaining employment.”

Harnisch believes the rate cut should give new home buyers the confidence to enter into home ownership with the prospects of interest rates remaining at current levels for the foreseeable future.

“It should also provide first home buyers with confidence to enter into the new housing market for the same reason,” he says.

“While the interest rate cut is welcome, it highlights the need for the government to embark on serious budget repair and other economic reforms to ensure that the Australian economy has the capacity to weather the global uncertainties.”

NSW cheaper for renovations

Uncertainty around the housing market has affected the cost of

renovating in NSW with costs rising by just 0.8 percent in the past year.

With the national consumer price index (CPI) showing a 1.0 percent increase for the same time period, NSW costs have fallen behind rising living costs according to stats released by ServiceSeeking.com.au.

The state average for a tradie has stabilised at $60.25 an hour, 2.3 per cent less than the national average of $61.65, meaning it’s a great time to get stuck into your renovation plans.

“If you’ve been dreaming of a new kitchen, bathroom, entertaining area or applying a new coat of paint to your house, then now is the time to take advantage of a slowing down in home renovation prices,” says ServiceSeeking.com.au CEO Jeremy Levitt.

It’s currently cheaper to renovate

in NSW than Western Australia ($67.34 up 1.8 percent) and Queensland ($63.14 up 4.4 percent). Victoria is the cheapest and the only state to record a drop in prices by 2.2 percent to $57.28.

The trades which bucked the trend in NSW were carpentry (up 11.3 percent on the national average at $62.83 an hour) and painting (where prices were 10 percent higher). Other big price changes affected electricians – who were 9.4 percent cheaper in NSW than the national average – and plumbing at 4.2 percent cheaper.

The prices were derived by comparing 52,000 quotes submitted through the online services marketplace during the FY16 Q4.

To view price changes across 10 popular renovation services around the country, including major capital cities, see serviceseeking.com.au/renovations


NEWS IN BRIEF


Australian Forestry Standard becomes an Australian Made Campaign Associate

Australian Forestry Standard Limited (AFS) has become a Campaign Associate of the Australian Made Campaign (AMCL), further reinforcing their commitment to promoting locally sourced, sustainable forests along with wood and paper products.

AFS owns and manages the Australian Forest Certification Scheme. It was established in 2002 to encourage the sustainable management of Australia’s plantation and native forests.

AFS Chief Executive Officer, Simon Dorries, says he looks forward to using the relationship with the Australian Made logo to help local forest managers grow their businesses, create jobs and operate sustainably.

“The profile of the AFS brand is growing in Australia and internationally, we feel this partnership will help raise that profile even more,” Dorries says.

“Promoting Australian certified wood is not only important to local forest managers, it’s increasingly important these days for Aussie consumers and retailers who are becoming more sensitive when selecting wood products and related services. They’re now more focused on the environment and social consequences of their purchasing decisions.”

Companies who process, re-manufacture and trade in wood and paper products can encourage sustainable forest management by purchasing and promoting their use of wood from certified forests.

Chief Executive of AMCL, Ian Harrison, has welcomed AFS and believes the organisation will benefit from the marketing power of the Australian Made, Australian Grown logo.

“We look forward to working with AFS in promoting the Australian Made logo as a useful business tool that creates that point of difference when encouraging Australian manufacturers to choose locally sourced and certified wood and paper products,” Harrison says.

CSQ delivers boost for Queensland construction industry

Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) has announced it will invest more

than $35 million in a range of innovative skilling and training initiatives to help the industry transition into a new era. The major investment was revealed in CSQ’s 2016-2017 annual training plan.

CSQ CEO Brett Schimming says the plan will help the state to build a skilled workforce that meets the evolving needs of the construction industry: “In our 2016/17 training plan we have outlined a comprehensive investment strategy that will provide vital training support to Queensland’s building and construction career seekers,

apprentices, workers and employers,” he says. “The plan has been developed through extensive consultation with industry and is underpinned by extensive data and research.

“We are providing pathways for people to get started in building and construction, assisting existing workers to develop new skills and offering initiatives that will help employers to retain the best people. For 21 years CSQ has played an active role in developing a strong and capable construction industry. This year’s training plan builds on this experience and will help to ensure we have the right skills where they are needed most.”

Future-proofing the construction industry is a key priority for CSQ with the demand for improved productivity driving demand for greater use of technology industry-wide.

Schimming says the potential benefits of new technology would not be realised by the industry if the workforce did not have access to cutting-edge training.

“This year we have invested significantly in our existing workforce, through higher level skills training and short courses and this will ensure Queensland’s construction

industry has the necessary skills to deal with technological advances,” he says.

“We remain committed to educating our workforce on the importance of constantly upskilling and training throughout their entire careers and we are here to support and guide them throughout this process.”

As well as upskilling the workforce, CSQ is investing $500,000 in the CSQ Futures program to collaborate with partners on projects that support new technologies.

The program will provide seed funding for high-tech training products or processes that have the potential to stimulate growth or impact the skills needed within the industry.

Attracting new workers remains another important focus area for CSQ: “While apprentice numbers are surging, we are conscious of the fact that our attrition numbers remain fairly high, so we need a steady intake of new industry entrants,” Schimming says. “We have a number of programs to help young people to get started in the industry including interactive events for school students and a central online portal for information about

careers in construction.”Research in the training plan reveals

an optimistic outlook for Queensland’s construction industry. Schimming says several factors are responsible for the sector’s encouraging performance.

“The roller-coaster that was the mining industry over the past decade appears to be behind us, with engineering construction activity stabilising after falling from historic highs in 2012,” he says. “We expect a slight increase in activity in this sector in the coming year and we anticipate steady growth for the construction industry as whole.

“Lending patterns are impacting the apartment and housing sectors, with the surge in investor apartments finally tapering off. Owner occupiers are returning to the market in abundance and they are building new homes rather than renovating, which is great news for our industry. Houses are typically more labour-intensive than apartment buildings and provide more opportunities for small construction businesses.

“The commercial construction sector is also forecast to continue growing.” P

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Accoya gears up for cycle track history

Accoya, the world-leading wood manufactured by Accsys Technologies,

has been used to construct two newvelodromes in the Netherlands.

The first cycle track, located in Apeldoorn, central Netherlands, will be the first indoor velodrome in the world made from Accoya. Experts predict that the unique wood flooring in Omnisport’s UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) velodrome will lead to a raft of cycling world records.

Siberian pine and larch wood are the traditional materials used for a covered velodrome. However, specialist velodrome architect and avid cycler, Sander Douma of Sander Douma Architects, expressly chose Accoya for the project due to its unique properties.

“It’s the modification process that makes Accoya perfect for velodromes,” Douma says. “The smooth texture makes for a very fast track; the finished track has fewer seams than a standard velodrome, meaning cyclists will benefit from less resistance and fewer fractional losses in speed as they attempt to record faster times.”

The team behind the design know that every cycle track is unique and they use specialist programs to calculate the structure of the circuit as well as the curvature and fall velocity of the track to create the most efficient structures.

The completed UCI race track is 250

metres long and seven metres wide.Taking six weeks for 12 craftsmen

to finish laying the velodrome track, the Omnisport Apeldoorn will open to the public in mid-September 2016.

Sander Douma Architects were also appointed to lead the creation of a 200 metre outdoor cycle track in the town of Assen, northeast Netherlands, which was completed earlier this year. It’s a much-anticipated project – local cycling enthusiasts had been campaigning for the cycle track for over 30 years.

Over 40 kilometres of untreated Accoya sections were applied by hand, using 6cm wide beams which were prefabricated. A liquid rubber coating was then applied which formed the desired watertight connection of the final structure.

It was decided that the cycle track would initially be an external structure, however there are plans to build a canopy in the future and as a result the architects have been careful to use materials which will be suitable for both set-ups.

Made with FSC certified wood from legal, manageable and sustainable forests, Accoya is an attractive wood product which

is Cradle to Cradle Gold certified and is guaranteed for 50 years above ground.

Laura Ladd, head of marketing at Accsys Technologies, adds: “Accoya is proven as a sustainable, durable and stable product, making it perfect for demanding application such as cycle tracks. We are very much looking forward to seeing the reactions of the Dutch cycling community when Omnisport Apeldoorn opens its doors later this year.”

Accoya wood is distributed through Agora, Britton Timber, M&B Building Products and Matthews Timber in Australia. For further information about distributors please visit accoya.com

“The smooth texture makes for a very fast track… Cyclists will benefit from less resistance and fewer fractional losses in speed.”



WHAT’S NEW?

An innovative product from LAP

Laser specialist LAP expands its highly successful product family of CAD-PRO

laser projectors to include new models with a green laser diode. The CAD-PRO LD green has a laser source with up to 30,000 hours of operating time – three times the service life of conventional DPSS laser modules. In addition, the unit features optimal visibility of the projected laser lines especially on dark surfaces. Developed and tested by LAP, the CAD-PRO LD green is without peer in the field of industry-level laser projection.

The CAD-PRO LD green includes eight new additional versions of the highly successful CAD-PRO laser projectors marketed by LAP. LAP supplies the new CAD-PRO with green diode laser as “Precision” and “High Precision” units featuring power levels of 5mW and 10mW. The units of power class 5mW meet the guidelines of laser class 2M. The units of power class 10mW meet the guidelines of laser class 3B. The “Precision” units attain an accuracy of ±0.2 millimetres at one metre of projection distance, whereas the accuracy of the “High Precision” units is even better at ±0.1 millimetres per metre. Moreover, the green diode laser can be used for both unicolour and multicolour projections (multicolour: red+green+yellow). CAD-PRO models with conventional DPSS technology (Diode Pumped Solid State laser) will continue to be available for purchase.

INNOVATIVE DIODE TECHNOLOGY INCREASES PRODUCTION RELIABILITY The long service life of the laser diode is a major advantage of the CAD-PRO LD green. To our customers, this means even higher reliability during manufacturing. For additional safety, if the laser source fails, the laser projector can be fitted with a second green laser source for unicolour projections.

“The new CAD-PRO featuring a green laser diode supplements the attractive product portfolio of LAP in the field of industrial laser projection,” says Ralf Müller-Polyzou, head of LAP Marketing and Product Management. “LAP banks on sustained innovation and development as we strive to be the preferred supplier and partner of our

Projector with green laser diode increases production reliability.

customers throughout the world now and in the future. Our main focus is always on the economic and technical benefits to our customers.”

TESTS CONFIRM LONG SERVICE LIFE The new laser projector was developed and tested at the research and development department of LAP in Lüneburg, Germany, at which engineers have developed innovative laser-based projection and measuring technology for more than 30 years.

“The new versions of the CAD-PRO laser projectors have an even longer service life due to the new diode technology,” says Matthias Lange, product manager in charge of CAD-PRO. “DPSS modules have a service life between 5000 and 10,000 operating hours. By comparison, the green laser diode has a long lifetime of 30,000 operating hours. This has been confirmed in long-term tests that were conducted in our cold and heat chambers at temperatures ranging from -10 to +40°C.”

GREEN LASER COLOUR HAS MANY BENEFITS The green projection colour also has some tremendous benefits in applications, in which laser lines or contours need to be projected onto a dark background. Green laser lines are much more readily visible than red ones on dark, wet or patterned surfaces. The green diode (520nm wavelength) possesses comparably high electrical/optical efficiency. Compared to the DPSS module (532nm wavelength), the lush dark green hue of the diode laser is very readily visible and is perceived as very pleasant by the human eye. Green is the first choice in projections from a great distance as well. This applies specifically to objects such as rotor blades of wind turbines, since the laser projectors are often installed at great height in the factory halls. Another benefit of the CAD-PRO LD green: the laser projector made by LAP can be focused, meaning that the focus can be adjusted by remote control as a user-friendly feature. Ralf Müller-Polyzou, head of LAP

Marketing and Product Management.

“LAP banks on sustained innovation and development.”

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WHAT’S NEW?

NEW PRODUCT ON THE MARKET? If you’re launching a new product, let us know! Email us at [email protected] for the chance to be featured here.

POSITIVE FEEDBACK ON THE GREEN DIODE LASER ALREADY AT MARKET LAUNCH The new CAD-PRO LD green has been developed based on the successful CAD- PRO laser projectors, which have been part of LAP’s product portfolio for over 10 years. The users include corporations from the aerospace industry, automotive industry and shipbuilding industry producing components from composite materials. CAD-PRO laser projectors have also been in use for many years in rotor blade manufacturing for wind turbines, production of ready-mixed concrete parts and in stone and wood processing. The demand for the new projectors is already extensive at the time of market launch.

“Many repeat customers are enthusiastic about the new development and express interest in the green diode technology,” Müller-Polyzou explains. “But the new laser projector has very interesting potential uses also for new customers and branches of

industry which do not yet utilise laser projection for visual support in their work. The laser projection systems digitalise the workflow and thus make a major contribution to increasing the quality and efficiency of the production process.”

TROUBLE-FREE SWITCH, COMPATIBLE WITH ALL SOFTWARE VERSIONS “The compact projector is very easy to install and handle,” explains Lange. “Likewise, the switch to the new CAD-

PRO LD green can be made easily, since the models possess identical geometries, brackets and power supplies and can be combined into a system with existing CAD-PRO projectors.”

Moreover, the new CAD-PRO models are backward-compatible with all versions of the PRO-SOFT laser projection software from LAP. Different laser colours and laser power levels can be configured individually to suit the application of interest. For more, head to lap-laser.com and blissandreels.com.au

Laser projectors mark green lines to show where to assemble timber pieces.

“The laser projection systems digitalise the workflow and thus make a major contribution to increasing the quality and efficiency of the production process.”

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NEWS FEATURE

“If other countries embrace new building technologies and Australia doesn’t we could be left behind.”

Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) and the CSIRO have launched Farsight,

a world first project examining the impact of technological and social changes on the construction workforce over the next two decades. The project aims to help the construction industry, governments, training organisations and employers adapt to a rapidly evolving construction landscape. As Australia’s third largest employer, major disruptions in the construction industry are expected to have wide ranging implications for the nation’s economy.

CSQ CEO Brett Schimming called for the Australian construction industry to start preparing for an increasingly competitive global environment.

“If other countries embrace new building technologies and Australia doesn’t we could be left behind. Australia is ranked 72nd in the world on innovation efficiency,” he says. “Traditionally, Australia has been very strong in research and development. We now have to do more to turn this R&D into commercial realities.”

The construction industry has been a slow innovation adopter and performer among Australian industries – attributed to skills shortages, workers lacking problem-solving skills and less exposure to foreign competition.

“We have to be prepared to invest in new technologies and also get better at the commercialisation process,” says Schimming. “It’s equally important for us to examine our training and education programs to ensure they reflect changes in the industry. We don’t need to fear the rise of technology in our industry.

World first project unveils vision of the 2036 Australian tradie – industry urged to start preparing now for high-tech future

construction process safer, more productive and less labour intensive. Drones are being used to undertake surveying work and autonomous vehicles are common on building sites.

The third scenario, Globally Challenged, would see the Australian workforce under pressure from advanced manufacturing and robotics facilities in Asia. The majority of construction work is being outsourced to more innovative and low-cost producers, reducing the domestic workforce by 90 percent. Australia has failed to develop and utilise smart robots which are capable of undertaking a wide range of manual tasks such as bricklaying.

In the final scenario, Rise of the Robots,

Exploring tomorrow

We should embrace it.”Task automation can create new high-

tech jobs, ease the pressures of an ageing workforce, improve productivity, make our industry safer and reduce building costs.

With many technologies in their infancy, it’s difficult to predict how quickly they will develop and be adopted into the construction industry. To help the industry plan ahead, the Farsight Project has used a CSIRO scenario planning model to outline four potential futures which could evolve over the next two decades. The scenarios consider the extent to which tasks will be automated and the innovation culture within the construction industry.

In the first scenario, The Digital Evolution, robot labour technologies have not progressed as quickly as expected. Little has changed in the industry but most major projects are utilising BIM software, which provides 3D modelling and an all-encompassing system for managing every stage of the construction lifecycle.

Tradies are still working in hands-on roles, but using exosuits to enhance their strength and agility. A range of wearables are also being used which offer biometric measurements such as heart rate and perspiration levels while monitoring the wearer’s location to alert them to dangerous situations.

Under the second scenario, Smart Collaboration, the promise of smart robots has not been fulfilled but Australia is embracing prefabrication with large numbers of modular houses and buildings being built in factory facilities. The industry is harnessing new tools to make the

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NEWS FEATURE

Australia has emerged as a global construction innovation hub. The country is the go-to place for testing and refining exosuits and intelligent robots. Advanced prefabrication facilities are attracting massive foreign investment and creating high tech new jobs. Tradies are now working as Building Assembling Technicians and overseeing robotic systems. They are aided by Virtual Reality and 3D Laser mapping devices which allow them to walk around and inspect augmented construction models in a real world environment.

CSIRO’s Data61 and lead author of the report Dr George Quezada says these scenarios are not predictions but stories that capture extreme but plausible futures

based on the level of task automation (limited vs. substantial) and the industry’s innovation culture (cautious vs. bold).

“The future is impossible to predict and the world is too complex, so we developed these scenarios to give the industry a framework to start thinking about what could happen over the next 20 years and how might jobs and skills be impacted”, he says.

“CSQ’s lead role in partnering with us is a first step in the right direction in preparing the industry to embrace a future full of significant change and disruption from automation which could lead to futures in which the construction landscape is reshaped

and barely recognisable from today.”“This report provides a reference

point for starting conversations throughout the industry about what changes are needed now to ensure an ongoing and thriving construction industry in Australia,” he concludes.

Schimming believes that building and construction is entering an exciting phase.

“Our industry has a very bright future,” he says. We must be flexible, adaptable and work to ensure we capitalise on the opportunities which lie ahead.”

For more information on the Farsight Project and to download the report head to csq.org.au

“We don’t need to fear the rise of technology in our industry.”

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FEATURE STORY

Software programs designed specifically for the timber industry are revolutionising the way Australia’s timber companies are doing business. We take a look at some of the main players.

No matter what area of the timber industry you work in, there is a timber-

specific software package that can help you run your business. You can improve efficiency, better manage stock and sales records, design smarter and plan bigger. Here we profile several offerings that could

Get with the program

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FEATURE STORY


TIMMS is specifically designed for the timber industry, so it takes minimal time to set up and go live compared to off-the-shelf software or non-timber specific software. The software can be used for businesses with as few as three users up to an unlimited number of users. With current server technology TIMMS can co-exist alongside any other operating system/programs such Microsoft Exchange or any Linux operating system.

“We also provide TIMMS hosted where a business can purchase TIMMS in SaaS (Software as a Service), which means they don’t need to invest in hardware or software.” Gallo says.

Training programs form an integral part of the services provided by Willdoo IT, and the company releases a new TIMMS update twice a year. A dedicated support team is available every working day of the year, with multiple methods of contact for any situations that may arise, which includes support over the internet or telephone support.

John Fizzell, accountant at Belmont Timber, has been using TIMMS software since starting at the company in 2000.

“We do everything through TIMMS,” he says. “We use quite a few of the modules, such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll and point of sale. You don’t have to buy everything – only what you need. And we’re able to integrate everything. It covers everything. The best part is that TIMMS is timber-specific. While we’re only

was formally the primary product of Disprax, which has now merged with Willow IT to form Willdoo IT. Willdoo IT is part of PNORS Technology Group, which also includes Datatime, Netway Networks and Pacific Commerce.

“TIMMS has been designed specifically for the timber industry to handle complex intricacies of the timber and hardware industries, such as having multiple units of measure per product in metric and imperial,” says Paul Gallo, group chief executive officer of PNORS.

TIMMS has a modular design, so each business can select the best TIMMS configuration for their business. Modules include everything from trade and cash sales, asset and inventory management, sales analysis, payroll, accounts receivable/payable, job tracking, re-processing, import/export and stocktaking. As a business grows and changes, TIMMS’ flexibility allows the system to expand as required.

Before each installation of TIMMS, the company performs a “scoping and discovery” with each customer before designing TIMMS for their specific needs.

“They only need to purchase modules that are required for their business,” Gallo explains. “TIMMS is fully integrated with inventory, accounting, manufacturing and payroll, so a timber business will only require one suite of software to manage their entire business.”

TIMMS was first introduced in the early 1980s when the majority of timber was imported for the Australian market, so it was used predominantly in import and wholesale distribution. There has been a tremendous amount of change since then – not just to the visual aspect of TIMMS, but also new functionality such as TIMMS for Log Management and Sawmilling, TIMMS for Trade Retail with full POS (Point of Sale), TIMMS for Reprocesses and Manufacturing.

“Recently we have added TIMMS CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and TIMMS BI (Business Intelligence),” Gallo says,” “Willdoo IT has also developed TIMMS EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) that saves timber businesses many hours of data entry as data is exchanged in an electronic format, increasing accuracy, speed and efficiency.

“TIMMS is the only product on the market that can manage inventory from timber logs, and sawmilling, to wholesale and distribution, import/export, all the way to the trade retail environment where timber is sold in pieces and lengths.”

well be the IT solution your company needs to grow and evolve. And thanks to continual new developments in technology, the best news is that these software products will be growing and evolving right along with you.

TIMMSTIMMS (Timber Industry Management and Marketing System) is a comprehensive ERP (enterprise resource planning) software suite for accounting and inventory management, from sales to operations and accounts. TIMMS

“TIMMS is fully integrated so a timber business will only require one suite of software to manage their entire business.”

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FEATURE STORY


mind that a platform had to be developed that allowed retailers and suppliers to communicate more efficiently so that information could find its way online.”

So what makes Vesta Timber and Hardware unique? While there are a variety of e-commerce platforms out there, many require their customers to fill SKU [stock keeping unit] by SKU, photo by photo themselves – which takes an enormous amount of time.

“What make us unique is we bring the suppliers and retailers together and this allows us to quickly populate the online shelves in such a way that a link is created and whenever content is revised or updated by the supplier the online stores where those products are sitting also update,” Newman says. “This gives suppliers greater control

VESTA TIMBER AND HARDWAREVesta offers two unique pieces of data distribution software. The Retail Portal is specifically for the retailer; the Supplier Portal is designed for industry suppliers. These portals allow retailers and suppliers to easily manage all their information requests in one easy-to-use piece of software.

“We believe the future for timber and hardware merchants is joining the dots between the physical stores they operate in and an online presence where consumers do their research,” says Vesta CEO Justin Newman. “You can’t simply ignore being online like you once could and research shows that offering products online actually encourages more in-store physical transactions.

“At Vesta we provide the platform for timber and hardware retailers and their suppliers to promote and sell their products online. Suppliers can communicate information about their products more efficiently and easier than ever before. You could say Vesta is in the solutions business – identifying the hurdles that the industry faces with technology and providing solutions.”

The software was created after Vesta saw an opportunity to help the independents in the industry improve their online presence while allowing them to sell online.

“This is a unique industry, especially in the diversity of the range of products available from so many different suppliers,” Newman says. “There was no doubt in our

a small business, it’s something that can be used for a business of any size – it’s extremely adaptable.”

Willdoo IT’s next major development is to take TIMMS into the cloud and open source.

“Taking it to the cloud means that a user of TIMMS will have access to their data from anywhere, as long as they have access to the internet and a web browser,” Gallo says. “The advantages of open source are many – not just the price. Open source means that a business is not locked in to just one supplier but may obtain similar/same service from many other vendors, which means that Willdoo IT must continually provide exceptional and uncompromised service.”

Hyne Timber Design 7.5 is your new best friend and business asset.

If you trade timber, Design 7.5 can advise the correct product, size and grade for your requirements. And best of all, it includes the properties and span tables for your favourite timber products from Hyne Timber, Wesbeam, Tilling, Carter Holt Harvey and Louisiana Pacific - in addition to generic product grades.

Hyne Timber Design 7.5 is free to download and use, from hyne.com.au.

Our software supports your business.

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required – Vesta provides everything as part of the solution they are offering and work with what a customer already has.

“Many of our clients take us up on an offer of a custom website,” Newman says. “We can also provide POS systems or the e-commerce platform with the product data from your existing suppliers – it’s completely tailored to suit the needs of each individual business.”

over how their brand is presented online while saving retailers a significant amount of set-up and ongoing maintenance time.

“Through our platform, suppliers are given visibility of where their data is being displayed online at all times and can continually work to improve it and make it more relevant to consumers and tradespeople without having to manually redistribute changes.”

There are millions of people searching the internet every day, looking for products and services. Online shopping is increasing every year – Australian consumers spent an estimated $20.1 billion over the last year purchasing goods and services online, according to the NAB Online Retail Sales Index: Indepth report – June 2016. More people are now seeing the internet as a convenient method for purchasing products of all varieties – including timber and hardware products.

“In the past, improving your online presence or starting from scratch was difficult and cost a lot of time and money,” Newman says. “Vesta can take all the time out of it and deliver an efficient, cost-effective solution.”

The software is scalable to cater for businesses of any size and any number of suppliers. No special equipment is

Hyne Timber Design 7.5 is your new best friend and business asset.

If you trade timber, Design 7.5 can advise the correct product, size and grade for your requirements. And best of all, it includes the properties and span tables for your favourite timber products from Hyne Timber, Wesbeam, Tilling, Carter Holt Harvey and Louisiana Pacific - in addition to generic product grades.

Hyne Timber Design 7.5 is free to download and use, from hyne.com.au.

Our software supports your business.

“The future for timber merchants is joining the dots between the physical store and an online presence.”


FEATURE STORY


Its purpose is to provide structural member designs for timber framed structures.”

Hyne’s software has been evolving for over 15 years, starting out as a complex spreadsheet that the company used internally to design with Hyne’s range of solid wood and glue-laminated (glulam) beams.

“Over the years it’s been developed and evolved into a product that allows simple input to more complex designs and now has the benefit of Load Path applications,” Mead says. “This allows the user to design simple elements and apply these to the more complex timber components. A link between these components remains so that if any one element is altered, the software

it’s now used by most building professionals including truss and frame suppliers, timber merchants, builders, building designers, architects and engineers,” says Jeremy Mead, Hyne marketing manager. “It’s also used by homeowners and DIYers.

Vesta also offers ongoing training and support to customers to ensure that the platform develops and continues to perform well and continues yielding results. Several new features are being released soon, to make the process for suppliers and the sharing of information with customers even easier and faster. “The timber and hardware industry is starting to see the benefits of e-commerce and it is embracing the change,” Newman says. “It’s something that everyone I speak to can see the benefits of, but there is more work to do in this area.”

HYNE TIMBER DESIGN 7.5The evolution of timber-related software goes far beyond sales and inventory. New generation building design software is allowing engineers, architects and builders to see their creations come to life in three dimensions – right on their tablet or computer screen.

Hyne Timber Design 7.5 has been developed by engineers, but not specifically for engineers’ use. Anyone with knowledge of timber terms, building techniques, drafting of domestic buildings, architects or even engineers can use it. However, many of the features were implemented for engineers, and can be used as an invaluable tool by them for timber beam design.

Timber detailers, truss detailers, quantity surveyors, and builders can also gain confidence in the products they specify or use by knowing “how much will the beam deflect?” or “How much bounce is in this product as a floor joist?”

“Hyne Timber Design 7.5 was initially designed for engineers but over the years

vth.net.au | [email protected] | 0457-457-354

Don’t waste another month, call us today and we can have you online in a

matter of weeks.

“Users get certified design results backed by fully qualified engineers.”


FEATURE STORY


predominantly use the software for visibility of their stock for manufacturing and sale, control of their business with solid business rules built-in to the application, and quick responses to their needs.

“It’s all about flexibility,” Moysey says. “It’s not ‘you will do this’ or ‘this is the way it has to be done’. We’re always looking for ways to improve efficiency and responding to the needs of the customer – providing solutions. You could call it bespoke software. We’re very good at identifying the appropriate technology to solve a problem and tailor it to each individual customer.”

TimberSmart offers ongoing training to customers, as well as online remote desktop support or via LogMeIn/Teamviewer. The software uses a Microsoft SQL database which allows it to easily connect a range of other products. New developments in the works include web-based interfaces including customer and sales rep portals, CRM and a range of handheld applications for Android and iOS.

“What makes TimberSmart unique is our ability to listen to a customer and to adapt the system to suit their needs, “Moysey says. With some software the product is the product and that’s it, but we’ll customise.”

their liking,” Mead says. “Support is tailored to the customer. Some require download assistance which can be provided by our support staff, others require phone support for more technical inquiries and some require in-house training and support.”

TIMBERSMART Who better to design software for the timber industry than those who work in the timber industry? This is the key point of difference with TimberSmart Software, which provides effective and profitable timber enterprise management for customers across the timber industry, including log exporters, sawmillers, timber remanufacturing, wholesalers, importers, timber and hardware operations.

“We understand what the industry needs,” says Chris Moysey, managing director at TimberSmart. “It’s the only industry we’re in. It’s not a generic product that’s been adapted for the timber industry – it’s come from the timber industry.”

Starting 20 years ago as a PC-based timber inventory system, TimberSmart Software has continued to evolve and develop.

“As we add customers on, they need new functionality and so our developers are constantly responding to request from customers – we identify new areas of need,” Moysey says. “For instance, at the moment hand held smart devices is the area we are moving into. We are currently developing applications to suit tablets and phones alongside of our traditional rugged hand held products. The office is moving out of the office, so to speak, into the wider world.”

Adaptable to a business of any size, from three to 300, TimberSmart customers

identifies this and requires the other components to be redesigned.”

Hyne Timber Design 7.5 is unique in that it offers an intuitive, scalable design approach and is extremely powerful in terms of what you can design with it. It includes the most readily available timber products (not just Hyne Timber products) and it provides the ability for users to be registered at an acceptable and endorsed level of competency. Extensive reporting options are available, and technical support and training are provided.

“Users get certified design results backed by fully qualified engineers, and quick and easy timber design analysis allows for fast decision making when moving through a set of designs – products are easily compared without having to design with each individual option,” Mead explains. “The software also has the ability to set limits of performance, so as not to design members that do not meet individual performance requirements.

“Our customers need us to stay up-to-date with all relevant codes and standards. The current design platform for Residential Buildings is based on AS1684.1 Design Principals. We anticipate that this will change in 2017 to AS1720.3 which will require a significant update. Also, we continue to provide a great selection of products to draw on for all possible design outcomes.”

Hyne Timber Design 7.5 can be used by individuals and small to medium businesses, right up to large companies where software is deployed via large networks.

“The software is generic, but allows for customisation by the user, so individuals can choose what products are available for design outcomes and set certain design criteria to

Timbersmart is Australia’s leading inventory management software and is used in over 130 sites around Oceania.With comprehensive support and

customer focused solutions, we are

here to help you do business.

Book in a consult on 1300 664 064Find out more at: www.timbersmart.com.au

Timbersmart’s software offers: • Inventory management

• Saw-milling

• Timber processing

• Trading

• Online solutions

Who better to design software for the timber industry than those who work in the timber industry?


FEATURE STORY


Initial and ongoing training is offered to allow for new staff members and software updates, and there’s also a help desk and web portal for customers to access help and information.

“We are a building supplies business and we use TimberSmart for general stock, timber, POS and payroll, and we have had quite a few programs built especially for us including our manufacturing of trusses and importing of products from overseas and manufacturing of steel battens,” says Ann Marie Bull, administration manager at Trade Building Supplies in the Northern Territory. “Everything is in the one system – we don’t need to have a separate payroll system and everything is linked. It makes it easier to get the reports and information required for end of month and end of financial year reporting.”

New developments are always on the horizon at Ironbark, with much in the works in the coming few years. “We’re currently doing lots of web features for external customers and suppliers, and also new dashboard functionalities,” Fahy says.

See more: Timms – willdooit.comVesta – vth.net.auHyne– hyne.com.au TimberSmart – timbersmart.com.auIronbark – ironbarktimber.com.au

financial management, designed in response to the specific needs of timber companies,” Fahy says. “You can start at the mill all the way through to sales and wholesales. We run Ironbark in multiple industries [including fresh food, fuel and manufacturing], so it gives us the ability to bring innovation from all industries into our timber solution.”

Ironbark’s operational management enables timber to be received and managed through its life cycle, ensuring visibility of stock availability at all points of the value-adding process.

“Ironbark also simplifies management of customers and suppliers while accurately tracking cost and providing full financial reporting,” Fahy says. “Ironbark provides all the needs of the business from payroll, accounts receivable and payable and general ledger as well as BAS and other regulationary reporting.”

Ironbark Timber is module-based, so it’s adaptable for a business of any size and requirements. As the business grows, new modules can be added.

“The most popular modules include stock control, debtors, creditors, anything to do with accounts payable accounts receivable and general ledger,” Fahy says.

Ironbark works with each customer to tailor the software to the needs of each business.

IRONBARK TIMBER Ironbark Software has developed comprehensive, integrated ERP software solutions for several specific industries, including the timber industry.

“The growing sophistication of the timber industry led to a greater need for traceability of stock and accuracy of financial information,” says Sacha Fahy, Ironbark client services manager. “Ironbark Timber Industry Software provides a single integrated business solution for timber companies, from the mill all the way to retail and point of sale.”

The software has been available for more than 20 years, and Ironbark is constantly re-evaluating the platform and functionality to provide its clients with the latest technology.

“Our product is unique in that it provides complete integration of operational and

Have you outgrown your software?Are you managing your business on spreadsheets?

Ironbark Timber Software is a complete platform for clients in the Timber industry; from logging, milling and wholesale through to retail and point of sale.

A complete solution, from financials through to all operational requirements including:

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Market Leaders in Software Solutions for the Timber Industrywww.ironbark.com.au [email protected] 1800 649 524

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Taking timber industry software to the next level

technology solutions to grow your business

With over 100 years’ of combined experience in the analysis, implementation and customisation of timber solutions, WilldooIT provides the tools and expertise to help

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TIMMS is the only solution you need to manage your sales, inventory control, finances, supply chain management ,CRM (Customer Relationship Management), EDI

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Call (03) 9682 3700 or email [email protected] today to find out how TIMMS can help your business take the next step.

willdooit.com

“Our product provides complete integration of operational and financial management.”


Taking timber industry software to the next level

technology solutions to grow your business

With over 100 years’ of combined experience in the analysis, implementation and customisation of timber solutions, WilldooIT provides the tools and expertise to help

you manage and grow your business through training, help desk, consultancy and system enhancement services.

TIMMS is the only solution you need to manage your sales, inventory control, finances, supply chain management ,CRM (Customer Relationship Management), EDI

(Electronic Data Interchange), BI (Business Intelligence), eCommerce (Shopping Cart), Web Development and Workflows. Working with WilldooIT,

will continue to lead the way with developments in mobile and cloud based technology allowing you to access your resources from anywhere.

Call (03) 9682 3700 or email [email protected] today to find out how TIMMS can help your business take the next step.

willdooit.com



FEATURE STORY

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TTN362_26-33_feature decking.indd 26 22/08/2016 12:41 PM

FEATURE STORY


It’s decking season – what better way to enjoy the Australian summer than with a beautiful timber deck?

Clear the decks!A deck can add beauty, value and functionality to

any home. In a climate like ours, a good deck can allow for many hours of outdoor enjoyment, from at-home entertaining to a quiet afternoon relaxing with a cold beer.

Much like other aspects of home design, decking trends come and go, and vary from state to state. Trends can be influenced by new technology that allows for things like multi-decks, rounded corners and circular areas, but also by personal taste, which is increasingly leaning towards more environmentally sustainable, local timber products.

Paul Oorschot, director at the Timber Decking Supply Shed in Perth, has found that Western Australia is a very different market to the eastern seaboard, with Jarrah as the local favourite as far as decking goes.

“However, we’re finding that Jarrah is being used more

specifically in undercover alfresco and less in the more fully exposed locations,” he says. “This is mainly because it can be a little problematic due it being a Class 2 hardwood. Merbau is also a very popular hardwood, especially in the wide 140 x19 option. It’s very stable and well-suited for extreme locations both coastal and inland. It’s used extensively in the Kimberly area because it’s very robust.

“The use of Spotted Gum and Blackbutt is also being used more in Perth for decking but usually this is the choice of a more environmentally-conscious client, who wants a plantation-managed option.”

GET IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIMEInstalled and treated right, a deck can last for many years. One of the most important things to understand with P

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FEATURE STORY


90 x 22mm High-density Pine Decking. Perfect for D.I.Y. and investor projects, Pine Decking is made from high-density

Queensland pine (20% higher density than Radiata), and is available in convenient

128 piece set-length packs. For pricing and availability, call us now on 1300 304 963.

Get more for less this decking season.AVAILABLE UNCOATED OR PRE-OILED FOR ADDITIONAL STABILITY

decking is that you should leave too much rather than too little space, says Gerry Swindale, president of the National Wood Flooring Association of Australia.“Decks installed in leafy suburbs often end up being covered in gum nuts and debris,” he explains. “Decks with less than a 5mm expansion joint between every board often become clogged with debris that does not fall through the deck. This can cause expansion pressure between boards that can lead to complete decking failure. Such incidents can lead to complete deck replacement in some incidents.”

According to TABMA, the recommended spacing for decking depends on the width of the boards, whether they’re hardwood or softwood and whether they’re seasoned or unseasoned at the time of fixing. For decking boards less than 100m in width, unseasoned softwood needs a spacing of 3-4mm; seasoned softwood needs 4-5mm. Both seasoned and unseasoned hardwood requires spacing of 3-4mm. For a weather-exposed deck, all fixings such as bolts and nails should be hot-dipped galvanised, stainless steel or similar.

Keeping a timber deck looking good year after year is actually quite simple. If you apply an oil- or water-based sealer every six months (Oorschot recommends doing so in April and November) this will keep most decks looking good. Extreme locations right on the coast may need extra, but self-assessment is key here.

“We’ve used a water-based hydrophobic

coating made by Crommelin for over 10 years,” Oorschot says. “We promote and sell it to all our DIY clients under own label. It’s been well tested over the last decade here in Western Australia and we love it. It’s easy to apply and keeps all surface dirt and water out.

“Use of non-tinted oils like Cutek and Organoil will also do a great job but more as a timber fibre preserver. These options are regularly used as pre-oil options by architects for commercial projects. Domestic/residential builders also use it for a more natural finish.”

Some of the most common errors made by decking DIYers are in site preparation and project planning. Many are building a deck for the first time and can get carried away with the excitement of building something for themselves. With so much information available on the internet (not all of it accurate or trustworthy) it can be hard to just stick to a plan and remember the basics.

“A deck has to be constructed to AS code and most people don’t follow this rule,” Oorschot says. “At the Timber Decking Supply Shed we have been actively involved in the construction industry since 1988 and have a good understanding of what our customers require to get it right from the start.

“The use of the correct structural treated pine and engineered hardwoods for any project installed correctly will last many years, and the right advice will be crucial to make it work. How much clearance should there be? What size footings will be required? What P

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How much decking do you need?1. Work out the size of your deck

by multiplying the length by the breadth, eg, 10m x 3m = 30m2.

2. Decide which decking board size you will use, eg, 90x22mm.

3. Divide m2 by the decking board width (convert decking width from mm to m), eg, 30m2/0.09m = 334m.

4. Add an extra 5 percent just to be sure, eg, 334x1.05 = 351m.

5. For how many pieces of decking you need, divide this number by the decking lengths you have chosen, eg, 351m/5.4m = 65 pieces.

6. Therefore you would need to buy 65 pieces of 90x22x5.4 decking to cover a 10x3m deck.

Courtesy of Timberlink.com.au


90 x 22mm High-density Pine Decking. Perfect for D.I.Y. and investor projects, Pine Decking is made from high-density

Queensland pine (20% higher density than Radiata), and is available in convenient

128 piece set-length packs. For pricing and availability, call us now on 1300 304 963.

Get more for less this decking season.AVAILABLE UNCOATED OR PRE-OILED FOR ADDITIONAL STABILITY


FEATURE STORY


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stains to be applied after installation.

“A deck has to be constructed to AS code and most people don’t follow this rule.”

type of hardware is need for long-term strength? These are only a few things to consider when taking on a DIY project.”

The wrong hardwood in the wrong position or location can end up being costly to fix or replace. Jarrah, Merbau, Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Kapur, Kekatong and Batu are all very different timbers and will only perform best in the right location.

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AUSTRALIAN PLANTATION PINEAustralian plantation pine is a sustainable, renewable and environmentally-responsible resource that is becoming increasingly popular as a choice of decking.

“Australian plantation pine is third party certified as originating from 100 percent legally harvested forests,” says Trevor Innes, General Manager Technical and Environment at Timberlink Australia, which supplies Australian plantation pine decking. “All Timberlink pine is AFS/PEFC certified and comes with Chain of Custody (CoC) certification.”

Plantation pine trees (like all trees) absorb carbon from the environment and retain this carbon even once harvested and turned into finished products. Processing plantation pine uses substantially less energy than that required to produce other framing/decking materials such as steel or PVC composites.

“Being locally grown also reduces transportation costs,” Innes says. “Our three mills (two in Australia, one in New Zealand) are all located next to our plantation pine resources.”

Australian plantation treated pine used for deck boards is one of the best value-for-money decking products available in the market. Both Australian and New Zealand plantation pine is commonly used for outdoor structures in Australia as it is readily and reliably available and has the environmental tick of sustainability.

“For outdoor structural applications, Radiata pine can be reliably and consistently treated to ensure durability for Australian conditions while being safe and easy to work with,” Innes says.

Outdoor timber (H3 Hazard Class, outside and above ground) needs to be treated to protect it against fungal and insect (including termite) attack. Timber sold for outdoor use is typically treated with CCA (Copper Chromium Arsenate), ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary), or LOSP (Light Organic Solvent Preservative).

“Over the last five to 10 years the Australian industry, including Timberlink, has moved to using LOSP treatments, which were specifically developed for Australian conditions,” Innes says. “While the actual LOSP chemical is more expensive than other treatment chemicals, it’s a dry treatment so the timber doesn’t require re-drying, saving on total energy costs. LOSP treatment puts the timber under less stress during production, making it less likely to distort, resulting in a more dimensionally stable product.”

Timberlink’s Bell Bay mill produces a low-odour LOSP option – the first treatment plant in the world to do so.

“With the same attributes as the standard LOSP treatments, the low-odour version has been extremely successful for us due to the fact that it has up to thirty times less odour,” Innes says. “While the white spirits-type smell emanating from LOSP timber is


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FEATURE STORY


VIDA AB is Sweden s largest privately owned sawmill group. VIDA has some 1000 employees in South Sweden. The core business of VIDA group is targeted at sawn and planed softwood timber. Operations also include house manufacturing, production of pallets, pallet collars, cable drums, composite products and trade of bio fuels. 80% of the production is exported to five continents.

Every VIDA product is made from renewable raw material – the Swedish forest. To ensure sustainable production for generations to come, responsible forestry in general and regrowth in particular are VIDA undertakings. The company supports its raw material suppliers, a majority of which are private forest owners, with a range of services, advisory as well as harvesting etc. VIDA is certified by PEFC and FSC.

VIDA Wood Australia has a wide product range to meet our Australian customers’ needs. Our mission is to support your business.

BLA

CK

.SE

v i d a w o o d o f s w e d e n s e r v e s a u s t r a l i a

– a global supplier of Scandinavian softwood

Hestra

Hästveda

Urshult

Alvesta

Vislanda

Hjältevad

Borgstena

Nössemark

vida wood australia pty ltd phone: (07) 3147 8797 fax: (07) 3147 8773 e-mail: [email protected]: [email protected]

Exclusively Distributed in Victoria byVTW Australia.

Melbourne, 85-95 Fitzgerald Road Laverton North Geelong, Fyans Street South Geelong

Ph. 61 3 8360 8340 F. 61 3 8368 2477Email. [email protected]

VIDA_TTN.indd 1 11/05/2016 12:27 PM

not dangerous and does evaporate over time, we had found that many of our customers didn’t like the LOSP smell at all.”

Outdoor timber that will be placed in the ground (H4 Hazard Class, outside in ground) requires different treatments, with CCA, ACQ and Tanalith E being the typical treatments used by the industry.

“Timberlink’s arrow posts are treated with CCA and are suitable for H4 applications, says Innes. “We mould every arrow post after applying the outdoor treatment to ensure an ‘arrow-straight’ post every time.”

Of course, it’s also recommended that all timber in outdoor applications be finished with a suitable exterior paint or stain to help protect against long-term weathering and keep the project looking good for many years.

Treated pine Plantation Radiata pine is sustainable, renewable and environmentally responsible. A cheaper option than other timbers, but still an attractive addition.

Jarrah Beautifully coloured, but a more expensive option. The timber’s high density makes it more resistant to fire, it can withstand extreme weather and is resistant to fungi and insects.

Blackbutt Another dense, fire- and termite-resistant timber. Has gorgeous blonde tones and is more consistently coloured than other species. Should be sealed ASAP and resealed regularly to avoid cracking.

Spotted Gum A popular Aussie hardwood that’s extremely dense, durable and a good choice for bushfire-prone areas. Can vary greatly in colour.

Merbau Commonly imported from Southeast Asia, so look for sustainably harvested wood. Versatile, durable and termite-resistant, it’s also a very attractive timber that’s only slightly combustible.

Ironbark One of the hardest timber species available. Ironbark is dense and heavy and also fire-, termite- and rot-resistant. A great choice for pool decking, and available in a range of colours, from pale brown through to a rich red.

StringybarkComes in white, yellow and red. Yellow is the best choice for decking as it’s more durable. Gum veins and worm holes can be quite common, which can provide a unique appearance.

Teak More expensive than most other timbers, but extremely durable in extreme weather conditions. Often used in boat-building, this timber can last for a long time above ground (40 years or more). Termite-resistant and holds nails and screws well.

Tallowwood Extremely hard, durable and versatile, with a long lifespan when used both above and below ground, Tallowwood has a unique colour and grain structure. Rot- and termite-resistant.

Composite decking A wide variety of composite decking is available in Australia. Some customers prefer this product over timber due to composite decking’s low maintenance needs and standardised size and straightness. Also termite-, sun- and water-resistant.

Top timbers for decking

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Silvertop Ash cladding and Yellow Stringybark decking (both

sourced from Radial Timbers).


VIDA AB is Sweden s largest privately owned sawmill group. VIDA has some 1000 employees in South Sweden. The core business of VIDA group is targeted at sawn and planed softwood timber. Operations also include house manufacturing, production of pallets, pallet collars, cable drums, composite products and trade of bio fuels. 80% of the production is exported to five continents.

Every VIDA product is made from renewable raw material – the Swedish forest. To ensure sustainable production for generations to come, responsible forestry in general and regrowth in particular are VIDA undertakings. The company supports its raw material suppliers, a majority of which are private forest owners, with a range of services, advisory as well as harvesting etc. VIDA is certified by PEFC and FSC.

VIDA Wood Australia has a wide product range to meet our Australian customers’ needs. Our mission is to support your business.

BLA

CK

.SE

v i d a w o o d o f s w e d e n s e r v e s a u s t r a l i a

– a global supplier of Scandinavian softwood

Hestra

Hästveda

Urshult

Alvesta

Vislanda

Hjältevad

Borgstena

Nössemark

vida wood australia pty ltd phone: (07) 3147 8797 fax: (07) 3147 8773 e-mail: [email protected]: [email protected]

Exclusively Distributed in Victoria byVTW Australia.

Melbourne, 85-95 Fitzgerald Road Laverton North Geelong, Fyans Street South Geelong

Ph. 61 3 8360 8340 F. 61 3 8368 2477Email. [email protected]

VIDA_TTN.indd 1 11/05/2016 12:27 PMTTN362_26-33_feature decking.indd 33 22/08/2016 12:32 PM

VICTORIA NEW SOUTH WALES

TimberFloor News is proudly endorsed by:

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NWFA warning to consumers and contractorsSet our below is a summary of typical wood floor failures

1. Lack of required perimeter expansion provision.

2. Absence of designed “internal” expansion provision on all one- directional floors over 6 metres wide (across-the-width-of-the-boards).

3. Absence of expansion joints at transition to alternative floor coverings of stone, etc, into bathrooms/laundries, etc.

4. Water penetrations from leaking showers.

5. Water penetrations from ineffective waterproofing of window/door frames.

6. Water penetrations through ineffective set-downs to external balconies/paving are required by Building Code of Australia.

7. Lack of sub floor ventilation.8. Poor site drainage/ponding of

water under sub floor areas.9. Failure to comprehend specific

requirements for high humidity sites.10. Failure to acclimatise timber prior

to installation on specific sites. Block stacking of timber does not allow for site acclimatisation.

11. Secret nail fixing of boards over 85mm wide (which should be face nailed).

12. Use of polyurethane coatings on T&G

board floors found responsible for edge bonding failure of wood floors.

13. The practice of filling expansion voids to the perimeter of floors with silicone, removes minimum 10 mm expansion void, provision for perimeter expansion movement.

14. 12mm cork expansion joints used (assuming 12mm of movement), when 12mm resin bonded cork will provide only 5mm of expansion.

15. The practice of establishing break-points/construction joints or framing rooms with borders between large rooms of wood flooring is wise, in that any damage that may occur over time, in one area of a residence, might be more professionally dealt with in isolation, without necessarily interfering with floors throughout the entire residence.

16. The practice of installing wood floors over any sub floor that has not been thoroughly moisture tested, and the results of such tests permanently recorded and documented including the type of moisture meter/brand/model/last certified date of instrument inspection and accreditation is fraught with danger, and regarded as “irresponsible”.

17. Adhesive bonding over unprepared or contaminated sub floors (old adhesive/paint /oils/ friable surfaces, etc,) is responsible for many floor failures. The principle of also using a 50 cent coin to scratch the surface to ensure that the surface is sound and does not furrow is essential.

18. Quality wood floor installations cannot be effected over defective sub floors. Any sub floor that exceeds the minimum requirements of 3mm maximum variation anywhere under a 3-metre straight-edge should not proceed until the sub floor levels have been adjusted.

19. Poor quality sub floors and/or installation of wood floors over tiled floors using an adhesive direct-bond system can be very problematic because as wood moves, it can often take poorly secured/prepared sub floors (including ceramic tiles) with it.

20. Magnesite sub floors – regrettably, there are people who still today attempt to install glue-down wood floors over old magnesite. This is a practice that’s strongly advised against, as often, wood floor movement will eventually take the magnesite with it. Failure of new floors, installed over old magnesite as a glue-down system, within 12 months is not uncommon. The only wood floor system regarded as suitable over old magnesite is a floating floor system that will not put pressure on the bond of the magnesite to the sub floor. Alternatively, recommendations for any glue-down system would require complete removal of magnesite, re-levelling the sub floor

There are people who still attempt to install glue-down wood floors over old magnesite. This is a practice that’s strongly advised against.

TTN362_34-35_Timber floors news.indd 34 19/08/2016 4:41 PM


TIMBER FLOOR NEWS

The increasing number of a-little- dab-will-do adhesive installations and failures is alarming and must be stamped out quickly.

where necessary, installing new acoustical membranes where and as required then, unless glue-bonding with an engineered plank flooring in excess of 189mm wide, sheeting with a minimum 12mm exterior waterproof structural plywood, properly anchored to the sub floor prior to nailing or gluing any wood floor system. 18mm is the preferred thickness of structural plywood.

Please note: while there are some exceptions to the above advice, this information is provided to act as a warning to the uninitiated/uninformed parties for whom this advice is offered.

21. Existing timber sub floors that are already coated must be coarse sanded to fully remove existing coatings to achieve a proper adhesive bond when using glue-down systems.

22. Timber floors being installed by nail fixing or direct bonding directly over an existing T&G board floor should be installed:

a) Over a minimum thickness of 12 mm exterior waterproof structural grade plywood sub floor glued and screwed over the existing level, clean and dry (structurally

sound) sub floor, prior to installation of T&G boards. Alternatively; b) New timber boards may be installed directly over existing timber board floors, as long as they are installed in the opposite direction to the line of the existing boards, after coarse sanding, to remove existing coatings, etc, and flatten existing boards.

23. Today’s technology provides competent tradesmen with some outstanding adhesive and liquid membrane technology. However, misuse or skimping on the proper use of these materials are often seen as important aspects of incompetent floor installation and failure. Therefore, our professional advice is not to use outdated PVA adhesives (which are water emulsified) when installing a quality wood floor. Our strong recommendation is to only use a high quality waterproof polyurethane adhesive.

Use a compatible liquid membrane in all areas where there are any reservations at all as to the quality/porosity/susceptibility or moisture of the sub floors you are addressing. Under no circumstances use dollop application techniques (or a-little-dab-

will-do) adhesive application. If a wood floor is to be direct-bonded this means that it must be properly bedded in a 100 percent full trowel bed of the specified adhesive, using the specified notched trowel, with a view to establishing a 100 percent direct-bond between timber and sub floor. The increasing number of a-little-dab-will-do adhesive installations and failures is alarming and must be stamped out quickly. For more technical advice, go to the National Wood Flooring Association of Australia’s website at nwfaa.org.au

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TTN362_34-35_Timber floors news.indd 35 19/08/2016 4:41 PM


TIMBER FLOOR NEWS

are put in place to inform practitioners. Following the recommended instructions will ensure that the product performs as intended. And yet, when it comes to applying adhesive products the application recommendations are often compromised.

Surface observations as cited in the manufacturer’s statement are usually visual, easily identified and remedied when necessary by grinding, levelling and patching. However, identifying the presence of invisible elements such as curing compounds and vapour barriers requires some testing. While in the past a simple bead test (droplet of water) would suffice to determine if a slab is porous, our evolving knowledge of curing compounds and vapour barriers and their impact on concrete bound moisture requires more quantitative strategies such as relative humidity (moisture) and pH testing.

A concrete slab is considered dry when it meets Standard ASTM F2170 which states: concrete substrates shall be considered sufficiently dry when measurements taken at 40% depth of the substrate do not exceed 75% relative humidity (relative humidity testing). Industry recommends the application of a moisture barrier for all new and ground floor slabs; it’s also recommended that you use the same brands of barrier and adhesive.

High alkalinity in concrete is now recognised as being a potential cause of adhesive bond failure between product and the substrate. Changes in concrete manufacture and the current flooring technology have made pH testing of the substrate a critical factor. Test to measure the acid and alkaline content of concrete substrates – a neutral pH is 7; anything above 7 is alkaline anything below is acid. Concrete substrate is considered suitable for the installation of flooring and associated products when the pH does not exceed 10. Ideally the concrete and flooring moisture barrier/adhesive pH must be compatible.

When it comes to spreading adhesive, the correct trowel notch is critical in achieving the optimum spread rate and ensuring the adhesive will perform to

BRICE ON BOARDSwith Sharon and Ray Brice

Using adhesivesRecommended timber floor adhesive practices to avoid adhesive failure and ensure successful application.

Delamination from the substrate, timber movement, drummy spots and even

timber splitting are symptoms commonly associated with timber floor issues related to adhesive failure; which begs the question “What’s causing the adhesive to fail?”

In my long career I have only encountered one genuine incidence of adhesive failure, otherwise almost all other timber floor issues related to adhesive failure could be attributed to human error, poor bond strength or lack of adhesion having been traced back to the application method, wrong trowel/notch size or shape, the wrong P

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spread rate, failure to bed the flooring into the adhesive or surface contamination and incompatibility with other products used.

Adhesive manufacturers are united in their interpretation of product use and limitations, which are clearly described on each product’s container, and expanded on in a collective statement by adhesive manufacturers to address sub-floor preparation which states: surfaces must be clean, dry and free of voids, curing compounds, loose materials, oil, grease and sealers. Where previous adhesives (PVA or Bituminous adhesives) or combination (wax, coatings, etc) is suspected or in evidence, thorough removal of all such contamination must be carried out. All surfaces must be structurally sound and level before application. (Concrete slabs shall be in accordance with AS2870 Residential Footing and Slab Code).

Recommendations, instructions, specifications and technical date sheets

TTN362_36-37_Brice on boards.indd 36 22/08/2016 1:53 PM


TIMBER FLOOR NEWS

Ray and Sharon Brice specialise in mediation training and project management. They have four decades of experience in the flooring industry. Phone: 0407 591 697 | Email: [email protected]

specification. The manufacturers of each timber flooring adhesive recommend the trowel size and notch profile necessary to achieve the appropriate coverage. On average this ranges between 1.0 to 1.3m2 per litre/kilogram. Also critical to achieving correct coverage is the angle at which the trowel is held – when applied incorrectly the bond strength is compromised. Many installers spread

the adhesive with a trowel held at a 45 degree angle, reducing adhesive coverage and compromising the adhesive bond.

The application of adhesive will only be warranted by the manufacturer when applied using a trowel held at 90 degrees to the substrate. Picture A illustrates the correct application (on top)compared to where the application of adhesive is compromised (on bottom).

It is recommended that when placing timber into the adhesive that the board be lifted back to confirm the transfer of adhesive as shown in Picture B.

Should adhesive transfer be inadequate the bond strength will be severely compromised as seen in Picture C.

Full application and floor pressure must be maintained to achieve a maximum bond between the flooring and substrate. If using mechanical fixings to achieve bond, it is advisable to consult the end user for their approval. Products for direct sticking timber to substrates carry concise and well written application instructions and/or procedures and when correctly applied and used as recommended they will perform to expectation.

In closing, I’d like to say that mastering the correct use of a trowel can be difficult for some, challenging for others and almost impossible for a few; but where there is a will there is a way. The trowel in picture D, while still meeting the manufacturer’s specification, has been modified to overcome such eventualities.

Picture A top: correct application of adhesive; Picture A bottom: application of adhesive is compromised; Picture B: when placing timber into the adhesive the board should be lifted back to confirm the transfer of adhesive; Picture C: compromised bond strength; Picture D: modified trowel.

A B

C D

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TTN362_36-37_Brice on boards.indd 37 22/08/2016 1:56 PM

AutoBuild


Aussie to the core

Pine Design Truss and Timber is an Adelaide-based supplier of Timber, roof

and floor trusses, CSR products, second fixings and various other products. The company has been around for more than 30 years, but has undergone several changes of ownership. Originally owned and operated by Cowells, the company was then bought out by Auspine in 1996 who subsequently sold to Gunns Ltd in 2008. The business underwent a name change in November 2009 to Pine Design Truss and Timber and in November 2010 was sold via a management buy-out to the company’s current owner/manager, John Oulton.

Sales manager Ryan Mansell has been working for the company for nearly 18 years, starting out as a casual labourer before moving on to making trusses and cutting timber, then estimating and detailing before moving into sales, where he has stayed for the past decade.

“What makes Pine Design special is our commitment to quality and to looking after our customers,” Mansell says. “We only utilise Australian timber – we don’t buy imported timber. This is one of the decisions

residential housing at present, and just recently completed a five-storey apartment block that used concrete for the first two floors and timber for the top three. Another similar building is also in the works for the business.

“The government is encouraging urban infill – there’s a lot more need to build upwards, so we’re doing a lot more floor trusses these days,” Mansell says. Other changes in the industry he has noticed over the years include new legislation and government processes.

“There’s been a lot of change in the way council applications are done,” he says. “Then there’s the rigidity in structure around our industry with the new laws that have come in to make people more accountable. And there are definitely a lot more wall and floor trusses being used these days.”

Pine Design uses Multinail software for both the regular running of the business as well as for product design.

“It’s pretty much a whole-of-house solution,” Mansell says. “You’re designing with one piece of software and it designs from the roof, through the wall frames and

“We’re very much about making sure the products we supply fall in line with Australian and New Zealand standards.”

This Adelaide-based business is proud to utilise Australian-made timber and hardware

we’ve made from a quality point of view. Similarly with our other products – we know we can get other products from overseas cheaper but we continue with Multinail products because they’re Australian-made. We’re very much about making sure the products we supply fall in line with Australian and New Zealand standards.”

Pine Design employs around 45 people at the company’s Adelaide site, with other staff offshore in Malaysia and a new business start-up in northern NSW that currently employs 15 people, although this number is expected to grow.

The company does quite a lot of multi-

Accreditationis on the CARDSMiTek have developed an accredited truss installation training course focussed on teaching the correct procedures

for not only erecting but also fixing of roof trusses. The course meets AS4440 standards – plus, accreditation carries

with it 3 CPD points! Courses can be arranged by contacting your local state office.

To book your accredited truss installation training course, call your local state office or visit: mitek.com.au

VIC (03) 8795 8888 NSW (02) 8525 8000 QLD (07) 3861 2100 SA (08) 8234 1326 WA (08) 9412 3534 New Zealand (09) 274 7109 Malaysia (603) 3176 7473

M i T e k T r a i n i n g

MGB

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TTN362_38-39_autoBuild.indd 38 22/08/2016 11:11 AM


FABRICATOR PROFILE

“There are definitely a lot more wall and floor trusses being used these days.”

the wall frame components, down to the floor, and if it’s two storey, the lower wall as well. There isn’t much software out there that works quite that well – Multinail do it well.

“But it’s not just about design. It helps us to improve efficiency, with less need for third party software, and from a factory point of view their factory managements system is very good. It enables us to eke out efficiency in a lot of things – pricing production and making people accountable as well. We can see where any one job is at any one time and compare that to historic data on what we believe it should take in costs.”

With a new business starting up in a new state, it’s still business as usual for Pine Design Truss and Timber in Adelaide. The company plans to continue to work towards further maintaining and growing their customer base in Adelaide while cementing and expanding their place in northern NSW. For more info on Pine Design Truss and Timber, head to pinedesign.com.au

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Accreditationis on the CARDSMiTek have developed an accredited truss installation training course focussed on teaching the correct procedures

for not only erecting but also fixing of roof trusses. The course meets AS4440 standards – plus, accreditation carries

with it 3 CPD points! Courses can be arranged by contacting your local state office.

To book your accredited truss installation training course, call your local state office or visit: mitek.com.au

VIC (03) 8795 8888 NSW (02) 8525 8000 QLD (07) 3861 2100 SA (08) 8234 1326 WA (08) 9412 3534 New Zealand (09) 274 7109 Malaysia (603) 3176 7473

M i T e k T r a i n i n g

MGB

0554

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On site at Pine Design: Multinail machinery in action

TTN362_38-39_autoBuild.indd 39 22/08/2016 11:11 AM


FABRICATOR PROFILE

The quiet achieverOriginally established in 1985, Victoria-

based Trussfab provides bearers, joists, pre-cut wall frames, prefabricated wall frames, long reach floor trusses and roof trusses to small- and medium-sized builders in the Dandenong area and surrounds. The business also offers installation, taking jobs from stumps or a slab all the way to frame inspection stage.

The company was originally started up by Wayne Hayes, who sold the business to his cousin Hayden Dingle and Hayden’s wife Bianca in 2015.

“Wayne worked with me for many years to mentor and support me in purchasing the business,” says Hayden Dingle, Trussfab’s managing director. “I started out on the factory floor straight out of school, and over the past years I’ve worked my way to my dream of being the owner of Trussfab and taking it to the next level.”

Trussfab currently employs 21 people in the factory and eight in the office. The business also runs six carpenters on site.

“I believe the thing that makes Trussfab special is the experienced service we provide,” says Dingle. “We have detailers with over 30 years’ experience, and former carpenters and builders who work in the office give the option for builders and owner builders to come in and discuss

issues and problems to solve on any job.”Trussfab is currently keeping busy with the

many retirement villages that are being built in the area. “These are enjoyable to work on just to see how quickly they go from a slab to a lived-in house,” Dingle says. “We’re also doing client work with people who have purchased through us for more than 20 years. This benefits us by knowing exactly how each individual wants things done.”

The business recently provided the trusses for a project on Channel Seven’s House Rules reality TV show.

“They contacted us and it evolved from there,” Dingle explains. “We thought it was a good option to put our name out there and an option to put our products out there for review by various people in front of a camera. We supplied all the wall frames and floor trusses and worked with the builders to put it all together in a real tight schedule. Keeping the secret for more than nine months was a bit of a challenge!”

Trussfab has been a Pryda licensee since the company was established. In fact, the business originally started across the road from Pryda in Healey Road in Dandenong.

“In those days if there was a problem, you just walked across the road, spoke to someone and things move forward,” says Dingle. “Nowadays it’s all done online

This family-run business offers years of experience, with the occasional TV show appearance along the way...

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“The new Multinail Machinery Mini 6 we installed recently has significantly increased our production capacity by removing any small truss production from our main truss lines”

Geoff Baxter, BB Truss & Timber

TTN362_40-41_autoBuild.indd 40 22/08/2016 5:24 PM


FABRICATOR PROFILE

“We are proud of our accomplishments over the past 30 years, but we are always looking for improvements.”

and over the phone. Steve Gatti is our first contact with Pryda, and his professional, friendly, helpful work ethic has helped me immensely in the transition to becoming the managing director and in streamlining all our processes.

“We work closely with him, and his wealth of knowledge helps me in making the right decisions for moving the company forward. We have had two factory staff working doing the fast-track estimating and detailing which has been a great success, bringing the young through as potential future detailers and estimators.”

There has been much evolution and change in the timber industry for truss and frame fabricators, with products from suppliers now being far superior to what was available 20 years ago.

“Quality is the constant improver in my time in the industry,” says Dingle. “The evolution of products such as machine grading, as well as LVL products to use in roof trusses, have brought about much change.”

Technology has also replaced the need for old-school things such as the Yellow Pages or a fax machine. But Trussfab still likes to maintain a face-to-face relationship with customers.

“Our doors are always open for a friendly chat and to go over any issues with our customers,” Dingle says. “Even though technology has taken over, we still believe in old-fashioned customer service, where you can come in and put a face to a name. We are all Australian based, and everything we do is done in-house.”

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Trussfab will continue to strive to provide ever-improving service and efficiency to its customers, and Dingle is feeling confident about the future of the business.

“As all fabricators in this industry have found over the last 10 years, finding qualified detailers and estimators is not that easy,” he says “Now that Pryda has the fast-track program in place it looks like there is light at the end of that tunnel. As the industry grows, to still having manufacturing done in Australia is something to be proud of and we need government backing to keep it that way. The industry is growing in many different ways, but we hope that through working together we can keep in that way.

“Trussfab has a saying, ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’. We are proud of our accomplishments over the past 30 years, but we are always looking for improvements, be it in machinery OH&S (which is high on our list) or streamlining progresses and procedures. We are happy being the quiet achievers of the industry, and we will continue to focus on customer service and quality products.”

For more on Trussfab, head to trussfab.com.au

Hayden Dingle

TTN362_40-41_autoBuild.indd 41 22/08/2016 5:24 PM


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FTMA NEWSLETTERwith Kersten Gentle

FTMA Australia is an association which encourages its members to make us the

first port of call when dealing with an issue in your business. Now, I am not suggesting for one moment that we know all the answers – if we don’t know the answer, we will get back to you with either the solution or a contact that can assist.

This is achieved through the strategic alliances we have built up within the industry and knowing who to call about certain issues is paramount in delivering on this promise to members. It’s also important that an association has the ability to recognise a serious issue that can easily become a major problem for our industry if not handled quickly.

Recently FTMA was contacted by a fabricator in NSW. They weren’t a member, but they didn’t know where else to turn as they had made several phone calls to industry experts to no avail. The issue was mould spores on timber which, as a result, were knocked back by the certifier upon inspection.

If this wasn’t bad enough, the certifier informed the owners of the property that the mould spores could potentially cause health issues for their family, which resulted in the family wanting the whole job, including frames and trusses, replaced. The cost to the fabricator would have been

Above left: to the common eye this may look like mould, however it is sap stain-affected timber. Right: an example of mould-affected timbers demonstrating “powdery” surface growth.

approximately $50,000, however the cost to the industry would also have been detrimental – if this wasn’t addressed it would have set a precedent for this council which could have spread to other districts, resulting in the need for timber to be treated to combat mould in future, a further cost to our industry that was not needed.

Recognising the importance of this issue, I rang FWPA/WoodSolutions and within the hour Chris Lafferty came back to me with a number of an expert by the name of Michael Powell from Biotica EC Pty Ltd who could assist in this area. The fabricator called Michael at 5:30pm on a Friday and after a lengthy discussion on the issue Michael flew to the region and was onsite with the council and owners first thing Monday morning.

The issue was verbally resolved as Michael identified which were mould spores – they were minimal – and what was sap stain. He explained that sap stain or blue-stain are generic terms used to describe several different fungi that cause a blue-

TTN362_42-43_FTMA newsletter.indd 42 19/08/2016 4:40 PM


AUTOBUILD NEWS

black or blue-grey dark discolouration of sapwood and that these type of stains do not affect the strength properties of the timber, nor do they pose health risks to human health.

He went on to explain that mould growth is superficial and does not penetrate into the surface of the wood and can easily be removed by brushing or wiping with a damp sponge, mild detergent, diluted bleach or an anti-mould solution, or planing of the wood surface. Importantly, he explained that mould does not affect the strength of the timber by any measure.

He provided the fabricator with instructions to clean the timber, which was cost effective and quick, and then provided both the council and owner with a letter outlining his findings and ensuring them that this was not going to cause any health issues for the family.

The cost to the fabricator for this expert

The fabricator was bewildered that those he had contacted in the timber industry had little concern for an issue that had potentially catastrophic ramifications.

For more information contact Kersten Gentle on 0418 226 242.

was $6000, along with his time and cleaning of the few mould spores – which was a better result than replacing the whole job.

I am sure, at one time or another, most fabricators have come across mould spores on timber due to weather conditions and it’s something that we as an industry can recognise and accept as we know it will be fine once it dries up.

The fabricator said he was bewildered to think that those he had contacted in the timber industry had little concern for an issue that had potentially catastrophic ramifications and that there wasn’t something in place to assist with these issues.

This highlights the importance of knowledge across the supply chain and knowing where to call for the right advice. FTMA Australia is proud of the work that WoodSolutions is doing and the expert contacts and knowledge they have to address issues within the industry.

The fabricator in this story is now a proud member of FTMA Australia and, like all members, will continue to make us their first port of call for all enquiries. Head to ftmaaustralia.com.au for more.

TTN362_42-43_FTMA newsletter.indd 43 19/08/2016 4:40 PM

Visit mitek.com.au for all guidelines


AUTOBUILD NEWS

By Tim Rossiter, state manager, NSW and WA

ANOTHER MITEK ADVANTAGE – SEPTEMBER 2016

GN GUIDELINES NO.230

Architecture is not a stagnant affair – as soon as we’ve had a season of

Boomerangs, along comes Bell-cast roofs, followed by Fan-ends, and on it goes! We are now experiencing an era of shallow, flat roofs with parapets, a consequence of placing large buildings on tiny blocks. This creates a challenge for trusses, which are often far too slender for the distances they’re expected to span.

A flat truss with an average span-to- depth ratio of 10 is great for stiffness and structural performance. A ratio between 12-14 is tolerable and achievable with larger cambers and bigger chords. Once it gets to about 15 and beyond, multiple plies and other inefficiencies increase dramatically.

Enter the internal load-bearing wall. Breaking up the span reduces the span-depth ratio, and allows for a much more efficient shallow truss design. But there are important pre-conditions to satisfy.

Internal supports have three simple criteria:1. Be able to carry the imposed load –

check supporting studs, lintels and foundations for their adequacy, not forgetting tie-downs for uplift.

2. Be of the same height – trusses rely on level walls. Uneven heights (even very slightly uneven) changes the load distribution and may result in over-stressing the truss and support.

3. Be installed on site exactly where shown in the plan.

Internally supported trusses need two things:1. Be designed with an internal support.2. Be installed in the right place, and

the right way around and in contact with all supports.

Internal supportsInstallers should take note of “Support Here” stickers (see at right), or some such markings on the truss, to make sure that the truss is located in the right position, and in the correct orientation, with a support wall directly underneath that panel point.

There is a little bit of tolerance – a good rule of thumb is that the centre of the panel point on the bottom chord should be offset no more than 100mm from the centre of the internal support.

So what’s wrong with missing a support; if it’s too low down, or in the wrong orientation, or offset by more than that?

1. Web strength – without going too deep into engineering jargon, the forces within the webs of a truss are either pulling (in tension) or pushing (in compression), and their magnitudes are calculated according to where supports are assumed to be situated. Any missing or misplaced supports jeopardise all that, along with the timbers which have been carefully sized.

2. Chord strength – placing an unintended support mid-panel on a chord will probably bend the truss over the support and add extra stresses to the bottom chord, and deflection to the truss.

3. Nailplate strength – if the predicted member forces are all altered, the Gang-Nail plates connecting them together will no longer be accurately sized.

4. Straightness – if the supports are not level with each other, the truss will no longer be evenly supported and that affects the strength of the truss. If the truss were orientated the wrong way around, the cambers will be wrong and, together with the bottom chord bending over the internal support, will probably result in an uneven ceiling.

IN SUMMARY, HERE ARE MY RECOMMENDATIONS:• Internal support stickers or markers

should always be attached to trusses and noted in truss layouts to guide installers.

• Installers should always take note of truss layouts and labels on trusses to install trusses round the right way.

• If trusses are found to have been installed incorrectly either relocate them in the right position or contact the truss manufacturer immediately for rectification. (No, moving the stickers does NOT work!)

• Alternatively, consider detailing two half trusses in lieu of an internally supported truss. It may cost slightly more initially, but it avoids some of the problems described above. As for “old-timers” out there shaking their heads (as I do) – yes, it’s still happening some 50 years after trusses first started appearing in the marketplace.

ABOVE: “Support Here” stickers

Internal support markers should always be attached to trusses.

TTN362_44_GN guidelines.indd 44 22/08/2016 8:15 AM

WATT ABOUT THE WORKPLACEwith Emma Watt


This information is of a general nature only. Emma has been advising timber industry employers on their employment rights and obligations since 1998. She is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the TMA. Email her on [email protected]

Paid personal/carer’s leave is provided for full time and part time employees. The

National Employment Standards (NES) specify that a full-time employee accrues 10 days of paid personal/carer’s leave each year. This leave can be used in situations where the employee is ill or injured and is not fit for work; or a member of the employee’s immediate family or household is ill or injured and requires the employee’s care, or has an unexpected emergency. The following are examples of situations where use of carer’s leave might be warranted:

• The employee’s child, step-child or grandchild is ill and requires care;

• The employee’s elderly parent or parent-in-law has a fall and needs to be driven to the doctor; and

• The employee’s sister, or sister in law, has a traffic accident and needs assistance.

In the old days, awards set circumstances under which employees were required to provide a medical certificate. Clauses used to say things like: “An employee who has already had two paid sick leave absences in the year, the duration of each absence being of one day only, is not entitled to further paid sick leave in that year of a duration of one day only, without production to the employer of a certificate of a qualified medical practitioner which states that the employee was unable to attend for duty on account of personal illness or injury.”

That legalese got translated into “two single day absences each year without a certificate”.These days, awards do not contain that kind of prescriptive statement. Instead, the NES allows the employer to direct employees to provide “evidence that would satisfy

a reasonable person” that the employee needed to take personal/carer’s leave.

While the NES does not specifically mention medical certificates, it’s likely the provision of a certificate from a registered medical practitioner would constitute “evidence that would satisfy a reasonable person” for most purposes. A statutory declaration could also be viewed as “reasonable”.

Some union lawyers have queried whether requiring the provision of a medical certificate to substantiate all but a small amount of personal/carer’s leave, is “reasonable”. This has not yet been tested. In some areas of Australia it can be very difficult for an employee to get an appointment to see a doctor on the day that they’re ill, which can make it harder for them to comply with any requirement by the employer to supply a medical certificate.

There are also many doctors who are not happy to see patients who don’t really need medical attention because the illness is minor, but have to see a doctor in order to prove to their employer that they are eligible for paid personal/carer’s leave. That said, until there is case law on this point, there is no actual guidance. If you want your policy to require medical certificates to substantiate most personal/carer’s leave, that appears to be within the scope of the NES.

COMMON POLICY ON CERTIFICATION OF PERSONAL/CARER’S LEAVEThere are a wide variety of policies on substantiation of personal/carer’s leave, and it is wise to consult with affected employees when you are setting new

policies. However, it is quite common for employers to have a policy that states:

“Each employee is entitled to three single day absences without certification in each 12 month period.

A medical certificate is required for any absence that is greater than a single day, or in excess of three single days in a calendar year.

A medical certificate is also required for absences on working days immediately adjacent to a period of annual leave, long service leave, or any public holiday.

An employee who is regularly absent will be required to provide a medical certificate to substantiate every absence.

Where an employee does not have enough accrued paid personal/carer’s leave to cover an absence, the employee will still be required to comply with the certification requirements.”

When an employer is enforcing this type of policy, there are some factors that will feed into “reasonability”:• Does the employee know at the start

of the absence that they need to provide evidence?

• Is the employee likely to be able to see a doctor on the day of the illness?

• Is the employer is prepared to enforce the policy on a consistent basis for all employees?

As with all policies and procedures, it is the employer’s responsibility to set the standard, clearly communicate the requirements, and enforce consistently. And if you intend to enforce this type of policy, especially if it may result in an employee’s dismissal, can you prove you took these steps?

This article is relevant to all private sector employees and employers in Australia except for sole traders and partnerships in WA, whose entitlements are set by WA State awards.

Medical certificates

TTN362_45_watt about workplace.indd 45 19/08/2016 4:40 PM

Paul Davis is an independent structural engineer managing his own consulting firm Project X Solutions Pty Ltd. The views in this column are Paul’s and do not reflect the opinions of TimberTrader News.Phone: 02 4576 1555 | Email: [email protected]


AUTOBUILD NEWS

TRUSS TALKwith Paul Davis

When you’re near the bottom of the food chain, you’re always going to being

picked on. Billions of krill are killed by whales every year. Do people feel sympathy for the krill? No, they love those brutal, murderous whales for their splashyness. Are people shocked by bamboo deforestation caused by pandas? No, they love pandas for their cutesy eye markings and roly-poly antics.

It’s the same for workers. At the fringes of my childhood-memory are the men who used to come and empty the dunny of “night-soil” and carry the can out to a waiting truck at the front. Did anyone ever think about their job security when they introduced flush toilets? And the guys fixing the potholes in the road are always getting the blame for the potholes. Do you see how we pick on the underdogs? They are doing the fixing – we are the ones making the holes!

Whole businesses at the bottom of the food chain get the rough end of the pineapple. In fact, pineapple growers are one of them. Picked on by globalisation, all the pineapple farms near my parents’ house have been bulldozed. We don’t eat fresh pineapple anymore; all our pizza pineapple comes from somewhere near a sewage farm in some poor south American country. Pineapples and their growers have been picked on!

So let’s face it – the truss and frame industry is at the bottom of the building food chain. We are contractors to contractors and have no control. We have to design structures where the architect has not thought one iota about how the timber structure might work. We have to brace houses with no walls and take the blame for a sagging roof when the electrician cuts through a girder. The first to get blamed and the last to get paid. The builder’s patsy.

And we all know that when a cornice cracks, the truss manufacturer is automatically blamed. It couldn’t possibly be the plasterer’s poor work, the carpenter’s leaning trusses, the concrete slab with a big hump, foundation settlement… or, in the case

Let’s face it – the truss and frame industry is at the bottom of the building food chain.

Where do you load a channel to stop it twisting: the mid-line, the face or elsewhere? It turns out that the location to prevent twisting, known as the shear centre, is outside the beam! So, for example, for a 200PFC the shear centre is about 25mm outside the vertical face. So, a channel loaded centrally on its top flange will still twist in a mode like the diagram to the right.

This deflection, and the extra stresses induced, may not be computed by your software packages. In fact, many engineers seem to have no idea that this can be an issue. In particular, engineers are sometimes guilty of designing dual function beam/brick lintels that underperform.

Once again, the situation can be accidentally rescued due to the restraining effect of other cladding and structural elements. So, turned around, the most vulnerable beams seem to be lintels set well down, under jack studs and away from the restraining effects of the top plate. So next time you have a “truss” deflection issue that is not the trusses, have a very close look at any steel beams that are supporting it.

Despite being at the bottom of the feeding chain, don’t for a minute think truss and frame fabrication is the worst job imaginable. Fancy a hangman as a job? My family’s ancestors include the last person in England to hang a child. And just two generations back the surname was “Fuller”. Fulling is a manufacturing process to cleanse and thicken woollen cloth. It was a job so bad that it was left to slaves in Roman times. That’s because it involved wading in urine – a powerful cleaning fluid. Compared to that, the truss and frame industry is bliss!

of this article, poorly designed steel lintels.It may seem strange writing an article

about steel in a timber magazine, but there’s a particular kind of failure of steel to perform that I have come across over the years that keeps causing grief to truss fabricators.

You could imagine that if you loaded a wall frame onto a steel I-beam uniformly along its full length but off-centre that it would want to twist about its longitudinal axis. Its deformed shape is like a mildly twisted piece of liquorice. That extra twist creates additional vertical deflection at that edge of the flange of the beam. And in severe cases the beam’s overall deflection increases also.

It turns out that steel I-beams are particularly flexible in this form of longitudinal twisting and it doesn’t take much to make them deform significantly. The accidental saviour in many cases is all the other elements that are connected to the beam – the timber framing, supported trusses, plasterwork, window frames, etc, that stop the thing from twisting.

So, if you do ever have a “truss” problem that may be related to a twisting steel I-beam, look closely at not only the overall deflection of the beam along its centreline but also whether there is extra deflection at its flange tips.

But there is an even more problematic case. I-beams are lovely symmetric sections and gut feel tells you that if they’re loaded on the centreline they will not twist. Steel channels are different. They have no proper centreline because the web is on the face.

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Vekta Automation is a dynamic and innovative Australian owned and operated company specialising in the Truss and Frame industry.

The Vekta Razer Line has the smallest footprint of any linear saw and is helping Australian businesses improve their safety, efficiency and output.

If you have questions about automating, trust VEKTA AUTOMATION to provide the answers and SOLUTIONS.

Razer V5 and S5 Linear Saws. Leading the market in:

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MGB

0639

H O M E O F G A N G - N A I L B U I L D I N G S Y S T E M S

For more information about MiTek PosiStrut Flooring Cassettes, call your local state office or visit: mitek.com.au

VIC (03) 8795 8888 NSW (02) 8525 8000 QLD (07) 3861 2100 SA (08) 8234 1326 WA (08) 9412 3534 New Zealand (09) 274 7109

Many builders and developers – especially those working on large, multi-storey projects are specifying PosiStrut

Flooring Cassettes. The floor includes allowances for deflections, reactions, plumbing locations, voids stacks, wastes

and duct chases and recessed wet areas. Plus, PosiStrut Flooring Cassettes can utilise top chord support for ease of

installation. This means they can be craned into position on-site and fixed in minutes! The implications this has on-site

are substantial…with more square metres of flooring laid by less labour in a lot less time!

PosiStrut CASSETTESFLOORING customers.

are

P o s i s t r u t F l o o r i n g C a s s e t t e s

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SPECIAL REPORT: Industry software - TimberTrader …...wholesalers, traders or importers, share this goal. Timber Queensland shares this philosophy through its broad-based membership