Timber iQ October/November 2015 | Issue: 22

Design & Construction October - November 2015 // Issue: 22 // Price: R40,00 incl.

ISSN 2305-9648

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CONTRIBUTORS

CONTRIBUTORS

THE TEAM EDITOR:

STEPHANIE DYER Stephanie Dyer’s love for, and interest in wood, led to a career in wood science, working at the South African Forestry Research Institute and the CSIR, where she was involved in research on wood properties of indigenous and introduced species. She also provided a wood identification service at these institutes and, since relocating to Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal in 1998, she has continued with the service. Stephanie lectured part-time at Pretoria Technikon for the National diploma in Timber Technology and, more recently, on Forest Products and Processing at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg. Stephanie holds an MSc in Plant Anatomy and is a Professional Natural Scientist.

Celéste Perrin celeste@trademax.co.za

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Tracy Swain editor@trademax.co.za

PUBLISHER: Billy Perrin billy@trademax.co.za 082 266 6976

ADVERTISING: Angeline Martin angie@trademax.co.za

BRUCE BREEDT Bruce is the Executive Director of SAWPA (The South African Wood Preservers Association), an industry body that promotes wood preservation and the use of preservative treated timber. He studied at the University of the Northwest Province, where he qualified as a civil technology teacher, an occupation he held for five years.

Following a brief period in the private sector, he joined the SABS Timber Department in 1996, where he held positions as timber standards writer and project coordinator for fibre technology in the Standards Division until 2004 and then took positions as principal auditor and technical specialist in forestry and timber products in the Certification Division.

During his time at the SABS Bruce also represented South Africa on various ISO Technical Committees. He is still involved on all the SABS Technical Committees related to timber products and currently holds the position of chairman for SABS TC 218 – Timber Preservation.

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Belinda Thwesha belinda@trademax.co.za

TRADEMAX PUBLICATIONS Tel: 0861 727 663 Fax: 0866 991 346 www.trademax.co.za Postnet Suite 241 Private Bag X103 N1 City 7463

DISCLAIMER Follow us @Timber_iQ

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

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CONTENTS

CONTENTS 14

46

2

CONTRIBUTORS

8

EDITOR'S NOTE

10

XIV WORLD FORESTRY CONGRESS

12

EVENTS

14

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

40

KNYSNA TIMBER FESTIVAL - CELEBRATES TIMBER HISTORY

45

KNYSNA TIMBER FESTIVAL - TIMBER IN KNYSNA

46

COVER STORY - FESTOOL UNPLUGGED

50

WOOD TREATMENT CASE STUDY - HOUT BAY HOUSE

54

INDUSTRY EVENT - EXPO MILANO - EGGER

60

TIMBER PRESERVATION - PART 3: WOOD PRESERVATION

68

WOOD PRESERVATION EVENT - ARCH

50

54

6

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 //

CONTENTS

CONTENTS TIMBER PROFILE - AMERICAN CHERRY AND MAPLE

70

LIFESTYLE - CABIN PEOPLE

74

XIV WORLD FORESTRY CONGRESS - A NEW VISION

78

FORESTRY LAND CLAIM SETTLEMENT - MONDI

80

KILN DRYING - VENTING TIMBER DRYING KILNS

84

SAWMILLING - SAWMILLING IN SOUTH AFRICA

86

FORESTRY EDUCATION - FORESTRY INDABA

88

TIMBER PROFILE - RED AND WHITE OAK

92

THATCH ROOFING - FAULTY CONSTRUCTION

98

70

74

88 THATCH ROOFING - INCORRECT MAINTENANCE

100

WOOD ART - PETER SCHÜTZ

102

INDUSTRY EVENT - WOODEX FOR AFRICA 2016

104

92

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

7

EDITOR'S NOTE

"Wood is in our nature."

It's been quite a while since I penned a note for Timber iQ, but this issue inspired me to do exactly that. It talks to, and about, so much that the timber industry and everyone who contributes positively to it, has to be proud of.

T

o start, the XIV World Forestry Congress (WFC) that was held from 7 – 11 September was done so on African soil for the very first time. As fellow South Africans, we share the city of Durban’s pride in having been able to host this incredibly important event, and in this issue we bring you some of the outcomes and goals that have resulted from the Congress deliberations, in both local and international decision makers’ and policymakers’ camps, for what we hope will be long-term recognition and support of the role that forests and the forestry sector play in our everyday lives. Every time we write on a piece of paper, place our fruit in a timber-woven basket, or enjoy a braai out on our decks, let’s give a thought to the tree that made it possible. Let’s support the timber trade through responsible and sustainable forestry.

Let’s celebrate timber. And let’s do so from 8 – 10 October in beautiful Knysna. On a scale somewhat smaller than the WFC but one with equal resonance, the Knysna Timber Festival is another important event on the calendar that promotes the timber industry, and one that we are proud to support.

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As the event invitation says, “Wood is in our nature.” If it’s in yours, be sure to read more on page 40 but, even better, show your support for the initiative and attend the Festival.

Let’s build with timber. There are too many reasons not to, as anyone who feasts their eyes on the timber frame building feature that starts on page 14, will agree. We are beyond proud to bring you the best of the best, the winners of the 2014 ITC-SA Timber Engineered Product Awards.

I hope you enjoy this read and all the features that put the deserved spotlight on timber, and I invite you to share your thoughts, comments, feedback or questions with our team at any time.

Billy

XIV WORLD FORESTRY CONGRESS

Durban Declaration: 2050 Vision for Forests and Forestry Nearly 4,000 participants from 142 countries met at the XIV World Forestry Congress (WFC) held 7 - 11 September 2015 in Durban, South Africa - for the first time on the African continent - in a spirit of inclusiveness and with a willingness to learn from each other, share diverse points of view, and gain new perspectives.

T

he Congress offers the following vision for forests and forestry as a way of contributing to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and a sustainable future to 2050 and beyond: • Forests are more than trees and are fundamental for food security and improved livelihoods. The forests of the future will increase the resilience of communities by providing food, wood energy, shelter, fodder and fibre; generating income and employment to allow communities and societies to prosper; harbouring biodiversity; and supporting sustainable agriculture and human well-being by stabilizing soils and climate and regulating water flows.

• Integrated approaches to land use provide a way forward for improving policies and practices to: address the drivers of deforestation; address conflicts over land use; capitalize on the full range of economic, social and environmental benefits from integrating forests with agriculture; and maintain multiple forest services in the landscape context.

• Forests are an essential solution to climate change adaptation and mitigation. Sustainably managed forests will increase the resilience of ecosystems and societies and optimize the role of forests and trees in absorbing and storing carbon while also providing other environmental services.

Realizing this vision will require new partnerships among the forest, agriculture, finance, energy, water and other sectors, and engagement with indigenous peoples and local communities. Success will require further investment in forest education; communication; capacity building; research, including climate change impact on forest health

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and diseases; and the creation of jobs, especially for young people. Gender equality is fundamental, with women participating fully.

The enthusiasm of youth for creating a better world should become a constant source of inspiration and stimulus for innovation. Their call for action should be supported through multi-stakeholder participation, engaging youth and attracting ever-larger numbers to the forest sector.

Upon the launch of the Global Forest Resources Assessment (FRA) 2015, the Congress took stock of the state of the world’s forests.

This Declaration reflects a diverse set of viewpoints of the participants in the XIV World Forestry Congress. South Africa showcased the training of unemployed youth as forest firefighters as an example of the creative, costeffective and life-affirming approaches by which this vision can be achieved, and which could serve as a beacon to the challenge of youth employment in Africa and beyond.

Participants gratefully acknowledged the hospitality of the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, and the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

Reference: XIV World Forestry Congress website: http://webapps.daff.gov.za/wfc2015/English/HOME.html# (Accessed 17 September 2015)

EVENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS KNYSNA TIMBER FESTIVAL 8 - 10 OCTOBER 2015, KNYSNA View www.timberfestival.co.za for more info

WORKING WITH WOOD THEATRE 31 OCTOBER - 1 NOVEMBER 2015, WATERFALL POLO ESTATE, JOHANNESBURG Book now via www.ticketpros.co.za

WOODEX FOR AFRICA 9 - 11 JUNE 2016, GALLAGHER CONVENTION CENTRE, MIDRAND, JOHANNESBURG

Expo Milano 2015, 1 May to 31 October 2015.

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2014 ITC-SA Timber

Engineered Product Awards

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

2014 ITC-SA Timber Engineered Product Awards CATEGORY 1: DECKS & BOARDWALKS

CATEGORY 4: STRUCTURES LARGER THAN 120M2

GOLD AWARD

GOLD AWARD

PROJECT NAME: Breakwater Apartments, V & A Waterfront DESIGN: Louis Karol CONSTRUCTION: Town & Country Projects

PROJECT NAME: House Stephens DESIGN: Alan Paine Designs CONSTRUCTION: Logo Homes

BRONZE AWARD

PROJECT NAME: House Szabo DESIGN: Alan Paine Designs CONSTRUCTION: Logo Homes

PROJECT NAME: Deck Frost DESIGN: Charles de Jongh CONSTRUCTION: Deckscapes

BRONZE AWARD PROJECT NAME: Deck Miller DESIGN: Charles de Jongh CONSTRUCTION: Deckscapes

GOLD AWARD

BRONZE AWARD PROJECT NAME: House Goulding DESIGN: Timber Home Kits CONSTRUCTION: Timber Home Kits

CATEGORY 5: STRUCTURES LARGER THAN 220M2

CATEGORY 2: ALTERATIONS & ADDITIONS GOLD AWARD PROJECT NAME: Confidential DESIGN: Alan Paine Designs CONSTRUCTION: Logo Homes

GOLD AWARD PROJECT NAME: House Whitehead DESIGN: Boogertman & Partners CONSTRUCTION: Timbercraft

GOLD AWARD PROJECT NAME: House Gregory DESIGN: Hardie van Schalkwyk Architecture CONSTRUCTION: Henton Homes

SPECIAL CATEGORY: 10-YEAR LONG SERVICE AWARDS Eco Log Homes Cottage Concepts Davwen Construction

SILVER AWARD PROJECT NAME: House Furman DESIGN: Tamem Richa Architecture CONSTRUCTION: Timbercraft

CATEGORY 3: STRUCTURES SMALLER THAN 120M2

BRONZE AWARD PROJECT NAME: House Arnold DESIGN: Douglas Jennings CONSTRUCTION: Timber Home Kits

TIMBER iQ MEDIA AWARD Timber iQ is proud to continue its promotion of the use of timber in design and construction, as well as its support of the ITC-SA (Timber Frame Builders). As a trade print media partner, it gives us great pleasure to again recognize worldclass design and craftsmanship through our Media Award.

The winner of the 2015 Timber iQ Media Award was selected from Gold Award winners, in recognition of the project portfolio whose visual and textual presentation is most reflective of the quality of projects regularly featured in Timber iQ. This year’s Timber iQ Media Award went to Logo Homes for their stellar work in giving a beautiful new look to an old but worthy 1960s home.

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

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2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

The legacy continues...

It was in 1995 that the TFBA, or Timber Frame Builders Association as it was known then, first held an awards event to recognize superior craftsmanship amongst its members. A tradition was started. But long before and long after that, even as the organization evolved and saw a name change to the ITFB - the Institute of Timber Frame Builders, the legacy that had been built on the foundation of an exacting, self-imposed regulatory system that had been created to help achieve the highest possible standards for timber frame builds, carried on. And today, that legacy is proudly continued following the organization's integration with the ITC-SA. Photographs courtesy of: H채ss&DAS BRAND FACTORY

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2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

Werner Slabbert, owner of Eco Log Homes and Eco Timber Homes and also director with the ITC-SA, was master of ceremonies for the evening, regaling guests and speakers with interesting quips and good humour.

A

winter’s evening this past July not only brought about some welcome rain, but also a showcase of beautifully constructed timber frame buildings at the 2014 ITC-SA (the Institute for Timber Construction SA) Timber Engineered Product Awards evening held in Durbanville, outside of Cape Town. True to tradition, the prestigious awards event recognized excellence in craftsmanship in the timber frame building industry by awarding winners with gold, silver and bronze certificates.

Entries spanned across several categories, including decks and boardwalks, alterations and additions, and structures smaller than as well as larger than 120m2.

Werner Slabbert, owner of Eco Log Homes and Eco Timber Homes and also director with the ITC-SA, was master of ceremonies for the evening, regaling guests and speakers with interesting quips and good humour.

Reinforcing the vision of the ITC-SA, Lyndsay Cotton, who serves on the board and is also general manager of LCP Roofing, shared pertinent details of the Chairman’s Report.

He also presented the awards, echoing his pride at being part of an association that promotes and maintains stringent standards in various disciplines of timber construction.

Deon Bester, OHS Manager for the Master Builders Association – Western Cape, addressed important aspects of health and safety which have a bearing on the industry.

The first awards event since the ITFB became integrated into the workings of the ITC-SA, the evening was as great a success as ever. It is clear that the future holds bright promise for the industry, the ITC-SA, and its members involved in timber frame construction.

Timber iQ was privileged to be a part of the evening and is proud to bring our readers some of the projects that won top honours, with a promise that more of these world-class companies and projects will grace the pages of future editions.

www.itc-sa.org

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

17

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

Fred Wagenaar (Executive Officer of the ITC-SA) and Tracy Swain (from Timber iQ) were first to congratulate Ben Paine from Logo Homes on receiving the 2015 Timber iQ Media Award.

Town & Country team members proudly display their certificates.

Barend Venter from Timber Home Kits accepts his certificate.

Leon Bekker from United Fibre Cement Company (UFCC) and his lovely wife, Erica.

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 //

Jim Bunyen from Timbercraft receiving his certificate from Lyndsay Cotton.

At Logo Homes, we are able to offer you a highly specialised and unique timber frame building service that incorporates both the design and the building of your perfect home.

The Institute of Timber Frame Builders (formerly known as the Timber Frame Builders Association) has awarded Logo Homes with Gold and Silver awards every year for the past 15 years for both the design and construction of our homes.

So, whether you aspire to a light and airy grand Cape Cod style home in the middle of suburbia, a cosy seaside cottage, a Victorian double-storey house or even a log home in the middle of a forest, our 22-year history and over 350 finished homes will ensure that your building experience is both a rewarding and exciting one.

CONTACT: Tel: +27 21 845 4606

|

Email: logo@icon.co.za

|

Web: www.logohomes.co.za

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

From mundane to masterpiece - like only Logo Homes can Using innovative design, meticulous planning, and of course timber, Logo Homes took the worst of a 1960s-inspired house and turned it into a magnificent home.

CATEGORY: ALTERATIONS & ADDITIONS GOLD AWARD DESIGN: Alan Paine Designs CONSTRUCTION: Logo Homes ‘Bringing Beautiful Timber Framed Houses to Life’ is the Logo Homes slogan, and that is precisely what they did with an old, tired-looking structure, transforming it into a breathtaking residence.

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Their work won a coveted Gold Award in the ITC-SA Timber Engineered Product Awards category, Alterations and Additions*.

Since its inception, Logo Homes has walked away with 42 gold and 30 silver awards, having won at least two awards each year across the categories covering extensions, houses larger than 220m2, and houses smaller than 220m2, respectively.

In each of these categories, there is an award for both the design as well as the actual construction of the specific projects – of which Logo Homes has been awarded both.

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

MORE ABOUT LOGO HOMES Established in 1993, Logo Homes is owner-managed by the formidable father-and-son team, Alan and Ben Paine. Alan (the father) is an architectural designer who specializes in the design of timber frame homes. His penchant for mixing classical with contemporary styles is an undeniable hallmark of Logo Homes.

Ben is a qualified engineer who specializes in the construction of homes. Seamless collaboration between Ben and Alan ensures exquisite outcomes time and time again, as Ben creatively translates his father’s designs into meticulously finished homes – much to their clients’ delight.

A sizeable team of 50 skilled and proficiently experienced craftsmen, carpenters, painters, bricklayers and skimmers comprise the Logo Homes line-up. The company, located near Somerset West in the Western Cape, has the capability to build dream timber homes from St. Helena Bay on the West Coast right up to the Breede River Valley on the South Coast.

In order to create volume and height, old windows were removed – and this successfully opened up the interior. A brand new roof line was created along with gables, whilst additions to the main bedroom took full advantage of the panoramic views. In the north-east elevation space, vertically proportioned windows alongside an interesting roof line, a veranda, meticulous gutter installation, impeccable tiling and attractive finishes such as turned finials and decorative brackets were all added to harmonize with the elegant setting. Inside the home, the beautiful oak flooring and classy finishes throughout are nothing short of sublime.

LIVING ROOM A raised ceiling was the ideal solution to bolster the elegance of the new living room, alongside decorative trusses. A pair of tall and elegantly restored Victorian windows was incorporated to further keep with the light, airy theme of the homestead. The end result is a tastefully finished living room that offers a convenient link to the dining area and kitchen from three small rooms into one generous room. The lofted ceilings further enhance the openness and spacious feeling.

SETTING THE DIAL TO BEAUTIFUL The west elevation of the house truly embodied the worst of its 1960s appearance, while the old east elevation comprised of brickwork and wide eaves complete with dated asbestos roof sheets.

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

21

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

No stone or other important aspect was left unturned – even the front door was restored. There is a point from the front door that provides an opportunity to see into the dining area, down the step to the sitting room, and then into the sun room. The line of light is aptly catered for and the house exudes brightness despite boasting a deep veranda.

SUN ROOM The sun room is undoubtedly the most successful part of the alteration. This timber framed room creates lightness and an extension of brightness to the living room, and offers a blissful link to the cheery garden. Stacking doors were installed onto the veranda, offering enclosure without that ‘boxed-in’ feeling.

Ply bracing and new Zincalume roof sheeting with a more clipped eave were installed. The corner was constructed to be sturdier – using a mix of heavy lintels and timber framed gables. The roof was altered to create character and style, and this was achieved by adding gables and half hips. Battens were attached to the old brickwork to accommodate cladding opportunities.

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 //

As can be seen, the finished sun room illustrates the quality of finish and the impeccable guttering, paving and paintwork. A ramp suited for wheelchair access was also installed, to accommodate an elderly relative. The backdrop of the sun room creates a great spot for al fresco dining, and the stacking doors also create the indooroutdoor feel. The once dingy and dull back of the house is now a fresh, bright and inviting place.

BATHROOM AND KITCHEN The bathrooms were restored and cleverly updated to blend with the theme of the home. Particular attention was paid to the precise installation of the sanitaryware – furthering their elegant appeal. Panelling and a dado rail were used on the walls, together with the appropriate tiling.

What was once a drab and lacklustre 1960s kitchen has been remodelled into a striking and modern kitchen holding vast appeal. It has been opened up to lead into the dining area that, in turn, opens on to the sitting room. This is a fine example of how proper consideration for flow and practicality can be implemented to great effect.

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

FINISHES Every care was taken in the alteration of this now shining structure. The brackets were custom designed for this home. The stone cladding and plinth links work beautifully with the garden and seamlessly blend in with the welllaid tiling. Hand-turned finials that were also designed specifically for the client were meticulously crafted. The cupola is pivotal to the design as it skillfully breaks the long line of the roof, giving it more height, whilst being an attractive feature. This is particularly true as the roof is visible on the sloping site with the guest cottage and garages sitting above it.

Moulded skirting, decorative trusses with triple tie beams, qualitative paintwork, leaded glass, capping and neat fascias – they all demonstrate Logo Homes’ top-notch craftsmanship in construction.

This old-world home was remarkably altered using timber frame construction in a new way. The folks at Logo Homes have proven again that they can create new homes from old ones in a cost-effective manner, adding tremendous value for the homeowner. *Logo Homes is also the winner of the 2015 Timber iQ Media Award.

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

23

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2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

Timbercraft takes it up a notch in Newlands Incorporating an innovative approach and using quality products and methods in accordance with SANS regulations, Timbercraft made a client's attic room dream come true.

CATEGORY: ALTERATIONS & ADDITIONS GOLD AWARD PROJECT NAME: House Whitehead DESIGN: Boogertman & Partners CONSTRUCTION: Timbercraft Construction on top of a two-storey home that has a skislope roof can be problematic. Stir in the fact that the client is a qualified architect, and the pressure certainly mounts. This was the challenge facing Timbercraft – an award-winning timber specialist company that has been crafting homes, roof rooms and loft- and attic conversions since 1979.

The client brief specified the need for an attic space that featured the following rooms: A lounge, bedroom, study and bathroom. The attic that had to be converted already had very limited headroom, and no alteration to the profile of the building, which borders a bustling main road, could be implemented.

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

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2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

ALTERATIONS AND REFURBISHMENTS The downstairs bathroom was initially altered and refurbished to accommodate a stairwell with a stair, but the installation ultimately resulted in fully climbable stairs. The final, finished attic result really pleased the client, but there is no doubt that the stairs ended up stealing the show, so to speak.

FINISHES In order to estimate maintaining and decorating the exceptionally high gables and eaves, Timbercraft went on to fit custom-made aluminium windows with Colorbond Klip-Lok cladding. These reached down to the first-floor ceiling level. Insulation aspects were all delivered in strict accordance with SANS regulations, with 150mm Isotherm within walls and ceilings, 12mm Rhino linings, standard doors, a pocket door, cornices and skirting boards, alongside some nifty LED ceiling strip lights.

In the end, this clever approach and top-notch execution ensured that the client was elated with the ‘lofty’ result of this very successful build.

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2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

Exquisitely elevated, yet fabulously functional Equipped with a deep deck, balustrades and a kitchen with a utility room, this home is yet another testament to the beauty of building with timber.

CATEGORY: STRUCTURES LARGER THAN 120M2

GOLD AWARD PROJECT NAME: House Stephens DESIGN: Alan Paine Designs CONSTRUCTION: Logo Homes This project is an apt representation of a well-constructed home using timber and sound construction techniques.

From the west entry point to the house, one gets a good

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 //

view of the neatly finished roof, always an important factor but of particular relevance in this instance, as people look down onto it as they approach the residence.

Exposed decorative trusses, neat guttering and barge boards as well as ornamental cupola enhance the raw beauty of this home.

It was imperative that the bearers and joists were correctly installed with well-bolted posts that were secured by hurricane clips. In addition, secure tie downs, a double wall plate and heavy lintels were used – all bearing the appropriate timber grading.

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

The bathrooms have been styled to be sleek but still hold a great sense of practical appeal. The striking view through the sitting room to the dining area and kitchen, respectively, melds the vinyl flooring and exposed rafters over the lean-to roof section in an impeccable manner.

The sitting room is bright and inviting and showcases the moulded architraves and sills, while the pale vinyl floors offer aesthetic appeal in this room. The bedrooms have vaulted ceilings with exposed decorative rafters that give a sense of space and light. In the main bedroom, the cupboards are fitted unassumingly in the entrance.

Security has not been overlooked, but the innovative use of transparent burglar bars doesn’t deter from the view.

EXTERIOR FINISHES The house offers a separate laundry as well as a simply delightful porch. Balau decking using the invisible clip fixing system was installed. The deep deck and the folding stacking doors are a great feature of the house, offering its residents a chance to feast their eyes on spectacular views. Stainless steel cabling in the balustrade was used to allow for even more visibility.

Because most of its structure was intended to remain exposed as a specific feature of this house, absolute expertise was required in the construction of the roof.

There was zero room for error. And, indeed, the end result here is an excellent illustration of flawless craftsmanship in action.

IMMACULATE INTERIOR The functional kitchen incorporates practicality and style, and although not very sizeable, it does offer an adjacent utility room – compact but useable.

A very neat finish, guttering down pipes, window surrounds and easy-going steps with the stainless steel balustrade complete the look.

A specially built paving level to accommodate people with mobility challenges was also constructed. Fibre cement trellising was applied to conceal the support structure of the overall house.

This home is a true eye catcher and this hugely successful build is worthy of the top accolade it received.

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

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2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

Timber opens up a whole new world on the Breede River Complete with a veranda, mezzanine level, five bedrooms and three bathrooms, this project by Logo Homes again proves the true potential that timber offers, and the outstanding results that timber frame building can yield.

CATEGORY: STRUCTURES LARGER THAN 120M2

GOLD AWARD PROJECT NAME: House Szabo DESIGN: Alan Paine Designs CONSTRUCTION: Logo Homes It’s a home that invites you to stay in and lock the rest of the world out. Whether it’s the ‘stack-away’ doors that open up the living area on to the veranda and the Breede River, or the custom-made spiral staircase that leads to the mezzanine level, this home is an absolute beauty.

The house, which makes for a gorgeous sight when viewed from across the river, had been ravaged by fire, and the goal behind this project undertaking was to restore it to its former glory.

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ROOFING AND WINDOWS Staying true to the sentiment of sustainability through timber utilization, all the components for the entire house arrived on site on a large truck.

The panels for the north elevation incorporate Sisalation on top of the ceiling boards in the areas where the trusses and rafters are exposed. The vaulted ceiling adds drama to the expansive 9m x 9m living area. To expose the structural timbers in an architecturally pleasing way was quite a challenge. Massive lam beams have been installed across the huge opening onto the veranda, with windows on either side. The lam beams in turn support the ridge beam above the triangular windows. The complex, custommade steel bracket that holds the entire roof together was left exposed – to be regarded as an aesthetic feature.

Heavy lintels were installed around the gable window.

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

SMART CONSTRUCTION At its north elevation, the house showcases the triangular windows that afford a phenomenal view of the Breede River from the mezzanine level. This also brings light into the living room, which is set behind a very deep veranda.

(This is also the only point from which the panels for the solar water heater can be seen.) The south elevation also lends itself to a theme of elegance and comfort and is underpinned by its beautiful natural setting.

INTERIOR The kitchen is complete with a timber island, vinyl flooring, and grand suspended glass pendant lights.

‘Elegant simplicity’ aptly describes the kitchen cupboards. The stacking, folding window that opens up the kitchen to wonderful entertainment possibilities out on the veranda makes for a very striking feature.

A custom-made spiral staircase affording people access to the mezzanine level offers unrivalled river views. A woodburning stove was also installed, highlighted by a neat semi-circular opening with its wooden mantle. The house is further enhanced by moulded architraves, tiled floors, almost invisible shower panels in one of the three bathrooms, and double decorative tie beams, amongst other elements. The mezzanine has been designed to be a play room, and the fireplace boasts a 3-metre, built-in wall seat to its left.

Gleaming floors, ‘happy’ double south-facing front doors and lofty exposed rafters make this a true gem in the Breede River crown.

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2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

Energy efficiency with a touch of pizzazz Commissioned by their client to effect alterations to a holiday home, Henton Homes used timber in a most creative, energy-efficient way to successfully change the appearance of this once ordinary house - now a vision of beauty.

GOLD AWARD

the same effect.) The result was a cohesive support system, not spanning more than 7m; otherwise, it would have had to be supported by a roof structure steel post or brickwork.

PROJECT NAME: House Gregory DESIGN: Hardie van Schalkwyk Architecture CONSTRUCTION: Henton Homes

TIE DOWNS AND ANCHOR SUPPORTS

CATEGORY: STRUCTURES LARGER THAN 220M2

BRACING, FRAMEWORK & SUPPORTS When tasked with the alteration of this holiday home, Henton Homes went above and beyond to remodel it by using energy-efficient methodologies and applying their sound timber expertise and superior technical skill set, which was certainly required for this project.

The timber bracing was installed at 25% into the structural wall frame, with one supporting the other on a 90-degree corner, and the intermediate wall running off into the opposite direction. (Henton Homes already knew that using metal strapping for bracing would not have had

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Concrete slab reinforced pads measuring 600mm x 600mm x 150mm were embedded at a depth of 1.4m into the ground. The pole was placed on top of the concrete pad with no concrete around the pole. Care was taken to ensure that water egress would not cause rot at the top of the concrete slab. The pole was notched 60mm for the bearer (76mm x 228mm) to rest on, and bearer connections were put in place to prevent sagging between the poles, using 12mm threaded bar nuts and washers.

Joists of 228mm x 38mm in size were then connected with hurricane clips to the bearer. The wall frames were connected with bracing straps to the fascia of the floorcon to the wall frames.

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

LINTEL SPANS Of particular importance in timber construction where sagging is concerned, is the proper application of lintels.

Everything smaller than 900mm can be done with 114 x 38 twice; as lintel support this will be adequate for load bearing from the roof with a 10mm allowance to the top of the window.

At 1.5m you should allow 152 x 38 twice. At 2.4m you should allow 228 x 38 twice. At 3m you should allow 228 x 38 three times. For anything over that, a roofing specialist must be consulted, since load bearing becomes an even greater consideration. One option might be the insertion of a lam beam, but it may also be necessary for an engineer to advise on an IPE metal bearer.

NOGGINS AND INSULATION It is important that noggins be placed horizontally at each 1,2m interval, and here 100mm-thick noggins were used, as well as insulation in-between the studs for both sound and insulation purposes.

ROOF AND FLOOR

plan. That made it extremely difficult to ensure that the roof fit with the wall frames on the gable ends, which had already been built prior to the roof arriving. Nevertheless, the top of the wall frames had to line up with the top of the roof, which had already been ordered from the roofing manufacturer.

At the end of the day, everything tied nicely together – from the roof colour down to the fascia. Even the gutter was blended in better through optimal use of colour.

Colorbond Ultra Roof Sheeting was used, and this was not cut with an angle grinder but with electric snips to maintain the guarantee on the roof sheets. For paint, Midas Earth Cote was used.

The floor structure was done with a similar methodology that Henton Homes applies to their deck constructions, but the floor structure was not taken into the deck structure.

Instead, the deck structure was attached to the fascia of the floor structure. That is because the deck structure is much more exposed to weather conditions, hence incorporating it as an addition to the house. The joists were not run through into the deck structure for future maintenance. This will also assist the client with waterproofing issues at the door areas. Brackets attached to the house floor construction enable the removal of joists from the house construction to the deck area.

The roof structure and exposed roofing aspect of this project proved to be immensely challenging, since it was not possible to measure on the angle of the roof off the

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

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2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

BOTTOM RAIL USED AS WINDOW TRIM At one window, there was an awkward 40-degree corner to contend with, for which no rail could be bought off the shelf. As a result, Henton Homes designed and custommade one. Generally, bay windows are not easy to finish, and here a special corner trim was commissioned from an aluminium contractor to define the corner space. The Nutec bottom rail was used as corner trim, which allowed for waterproofing quality.

FINISHES The interior was enhanced with white-washed, sanded floors that were protected with Nova 25 water-based sealant. Practical, double-glazing aluminium worked well for the architect’s specification that insulation be at an R-Value of 3,24. Ordinary plaster corner beads were placed into the windows to provide an extended finish with no architraves.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY All the walls and the roof had to be insulated with 100mm Isotherm. This entailed Henton Homes having to bulk up the standard 76mm x 50mm purlin with an additional 25mm purlin strip – enabling the Isotherm substitution.

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The windows and doors were double glazed according to specification, and solar-ready geysers were installed.

Because the insulation and R-Value requirements were fully met, no air conditioning was needed.

Thanks to an expert build, this homeowner can now comfortably enjoy his holiday home at any time.

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

Town & Country breaks ground with its superior decking project at the V&A Waterfront Despite a restrictive working environment and a multitude of logistical challenges, Town & Country bedecked the Breakwater Apartments with a beautiful deck and complementing Balau balconies that softened the harsh exterior of the building.

CATEGORY: DECKS & BOARDWALKS GOLD AWARD PROJECT NAME: Breakwater Apartments, V & A Waterfront DESIGN: Louis Karol CONSTRUCTION: Town & Country Projects Being met with challenges on large projects is familiar territory for the team at Town & Country, and the Breakwater Apartments project was no different.

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Facing a ‘crowded’ workplace, they had to liaise and coordinate constantly with other traders who were also contracted to carry out work on the balconies or the building’s exterior.

In addition, although scaffolding was in place to assist, it was very restrictive when dealing with the mobility of materials on site. Each day presented its own set of obstacles to overcome, but fortunately this professional outfit maintained their sense of humour and saw the project through to completion without major incident.

2014 ITC-SA TIMBER ENGINEERED PRODUCT AWARDS

MAIN STRUCTURE AND BALCONIES The main support structure for the pergola design was in the form of I-beams that had lugs wielded onto them in the appropriate position for the structural Balau. The Balau was then secured with threaded bar and stainless steel dome nuts and washes. Steel frames were put in place to hold the Balau framework for the timber screens.

The frames and the horizontal pieces of the Balau measured 69mm x 32mm and were made in modular form on the ground and then secured directly into the steel frames.

Even though the support frames were made of steel, they all differed, and therefore each of the timber frames had to be measured individually.

The corner balcony Balau decks were built from the bottom up. So, in essence, each deck below that balcony acted as a platform for the construction of the deck above it. All the staff had to wear safety harnesses at all times, which did slow the process down somewhat, but was obviously important and necessary.

PERGOLAS The Balau pergola at the main reception area was made with 144mm x 44mm structural timber with 69mm x 44mm Balau stabilizers. The timber serves as an exterior softener but also provides much-needed shading for the ground-level apartments.

The carport pergolas needed to span a distance of 5,1 metres per bay. The main load-bearing members were 220mm x 44mm with intermediate joists at 144mm x 44mm. Purlins of 69mm x 44mm carry a wire mesh that will in the future house a hanging garden.

POOL DECK AND BOARDWALK The building has a multi-level rim pool deck offering boardwalk access to the apartments and astro turf play and/or leisure areas. In the top right-hand side of the pool, there is a raised area that acts as a platform for the pool, and also as an area to lounge on. It has hidden access panels for maintenance of the pool pump and all of its mechanics, including a ladder that folds away.

At the right-hand side of the building’s elevation, the lower pool deck area and the structural Balau stairs can be seen. This leads to the upper deck. The treads and the stringers for the stairs were made up of 294mm x 44mm Balau and the risers 144mm x 44mm Balau, respectively.

The upper pool deck is fitted with 19mm x 90mm Balau deck boards cladding the face in between. The balustrade comprises of powder-coated steel and is fitted with a polished stainless steel handrail.

Although the cards were stacked against them, the Town & Country team delivered a superior decking and boardwalk project that proudly sits in cosmopolitan Cape Town.

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

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KNYSNA TIMBER FESTIVAL

Knysna Timber Festival organizing committee (from left): Jock McConnachie (Timber Village), Ilse van Schalkwyk (Knysna Municipality Economic Development), Owen Lottering (Woodman's Timber), Dave Simpson (the T&B Group), Morné Smith (Fechters Furniture), Picca De Bruyn (Festival coordinator) and Dominic Morel (Two Heads Advertising Agency).

Photo credit: Fran Kirsten (Festival PR)

Knysna Festival celebrates timber history "The Knysna Timber Festival belongs to Knysna, as it should, and promises to be bigger and better than before," said Jock McConnachie, member of the festival organizing committee, at the launch of the Knysna Timber Festival 2015 at the Premier Hotel in mid-August.

T

he evening was a festive occasion, with guests mingling while enjoying sponsored Mitchell’s Brewery beer and tasty snacks, excited at the prospect that this year’s event, which sports a new name and more accessible venue, promises to offer the same successful format as the first 2014 festival. The festival will be held over the school holidays from October 8 – 10.

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A LOT TO LOOK FORWARD TO A main highlight will be talks by retired Rear Admiral Theo Honiball. He will be sharing his maritime passion with festival attendees with details of his current project – under the leadership of a steering committee – which entails building a life-size replica of the sailing ship, Knysna. The ship was originally built entirely out of stinkwood by George Rex in 1831 to transport wood from Knysna to Cape Town.

KNYSNA TIMBER FESTIVAL

In addition, Knysna’s expert historian, Margaret Parkes, will be presenting talks on locally-built, pre-1970 wooden boats.

“Knysna & Partners is once again looking forward to celebrating Knysna’s timber heritage with the world through this festival, and will be focusing on using this event to develop a Timber Route, highlighting the timber heritage all year round,” said Knysna & Partners' CEO, Greg Vogt. He added that the festival provides everyone involved in the timber industry an opportunity to showcase their involvement and commitment to re-awaken the wood industry which was once the cornerstone of the town’s economy.

“Most importantly, the occasion enables Knysna to re-embrace its valuable timber heritage. Plus, the festival will help to reposition the wood industry's many facets locally, nationally and internationally.”

MORE FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO INCLUDE: • Project-based workshop presentations offered by Vermont Sales • Machinery displays • Furniture exhibitions • Architectural insight • Interior design • Engaging kids’ workshops and play area

COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL HARDWARE At Vormann we have design brackets and heavy duty brackets for shelving, hooks to organise your garage. Chair angles and heavy duty angles for any wood construction, pole shoes & beam shoes as well as chains and ropes.

TIMBER CONNECTING PIECES

Festival committee member Owen Lottering emphasized that the festival will also offer activities for children to stimulate their interest in the craft.

“The future of our industry concerns me greatly. It worries me that woodworking is no longer offered as a subject at school. Who is going to carry the craft forward?”

Knysna Executive Mayor, Georlene Wolmarans, expressed her appreciation of the festival. “Knysna has a long history and relationship with wood and timber. The Knysna Timber Festival is one way in which we can support our local players in this industry,” she said.

“We are delighted that the Knysna Timber Festival has already been so well received and supported by numerous local enterprises. Key players in the timber industry nationally have also come to the party, all of whom are impressed with the forward planning and greater scale of the event,” added Picca de Bruin, festival coordinator.

FITTINGS

CHAINS & ROPES

SHELF BRACKETS

The Knysna Timber Festival 2015 is a necessary and welcome event that deserves support from both the public and trade.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: HEAVY DUTY BRACKETS & PLATES

Facebook: /KnysnaTimberFestival Twitter: @KnysnaTimber

Tel: +27 44 878 1441 Email: info@vormann.co.za Unit 54, Ivory Crescent, Tamsui Industria, George, 6530

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

41

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Suppliers of South Africa’s widest range of local and imported timbers – from Ash to Zebrano, and everything in between A market-leading stockholding of 165 species and 8000m3 of stock Operating for over 30 years, with branches in Cape Town and Knysna Extensive showrooms, full of inspiration Offering friendly, knowledgeable, passionate and professional service Attractive discounts available to trade and bulk customers A treasure trove for wood lovers!

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DESIGNERS AND BUILDERS OF AWARD WINNING TIMBER HOMES tel: +27 (0) 44 382 5085 web: www.knysnatimberhomes.co.za email: theteam@knysnatimberhomes.co.za

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KNYSNA TIMBER FESTIVAL

Celebrating timber in Knysna "Knysna has a long history and relationship with wood and timber.

In fact, without it, our town would never have been founded or developed into the exciting, vibrant centre that it is today."

Address by Georlene Wolmarans, Knysna Executive Mayor It is a fantastic platform for those who work with wood to exhibit their products. It is also a great opportunity for the public to show their support for our woodworkers, and to be exposed to the various applications of our fantastic timbers.

While timber from our forests is used for construction purposes, furniture made from our woods are regarded as art pieces – and owners are proud to display their objects crafted from Knysna hardwoods. Aside from its practical applications, our timber is also installed as art, having inspired many artists and crafters throughout the years.

IT STARTED WITH A SAWMILL “Knysna developed around the timber industry. While some had settled on farms in the area, I think it fair to say that the town developed around George Parkes’ steam sawmill. He arrived in Knysna in 1890 and recognized the opportunities of working with the hardwoods of the Knysna Forest. He built his sawmill where the Woodmill Lane Shopping Centre is located today, and it is easy to imagine the town spreading out around this central industrial beacon.

Timber was exported, practical products were manufactured from our forests’ timbers, and Knysna grew and expanded. And while the timber industry today might not be quite what it was in the years after 1890, it is still an active contributor to our local economy – and a sector that I believe should be developed and supported to reach and exceed its previous heights.”

Of course it is important to remember that while there are a few names that always crop up when we talk about our timber history, there are many names that do not. It took many hardworking hands from members of all of Knysna’s communities to chop down trees and process the timber.

That is why it is important that festivals like these include members from all our communities. These events are also the ideal platforms to create training and skills transfer opportunities – a crucial component of developing the industry as a whole.”

KNYSNA TIMBER FESTIVAL “I wish the exhibitors at this year’s festival great success and I urge the public to support this fantastic event. I thank the sponsors and organizers for their efforts in giving us this opportunity to celebrate all aspects of our timber industry, as well as the opportunity to remember that Knysna would have been a very different place altogether if it weren’t for our forests and their beautiful trees. In fact, if it weren’t for our timbers, Knysna might not have been here at all.”

SUPPORT FOR THE TIMBER TRADE “The Knysna Timber Festival is one way in which we can support our local players in this industry.

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

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COVER STORY

The Festool 'unplugged' cordless tool range, offering independence for sawing, drilling and screwdriving jobs – with 5.2 Ah high performance battery packs and brushless EC-TEC motor technology for optimal power usage, greater efficiency, and longer battery life.

Festool unplugged -the new generation of independence This year saw the introduction of the updated Festool 'unplugged' cordless tool range. These tools mark a new generation of independence, lasting even longer and providing excellent results for sawing, drilling and screwdriving jobs. The combination of 5.2 Ah highperformance battery packs and brushless EC-TEC motor technology ensures optimal power usage, greater efficiency, and longer tool life.

In addition, with the new 'PowerSelect' selection system, Festool offers variants that are attractive, fair, and above all, individual.

Photo credits: Festool GmbH

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 //

COVER STORY

The impressive BHC 18 cordless drill, with ergonomic C-shape, balanced weight distribution and integrated vibration damping.

The TS 55 circular saw is a classic piece of workshop equipment, and with the new TSC 55 cordless circular saw, its popularity can only increase.

C

ordless tools from Festool deliver more than just durability, precision and performance: They also offer a balanced relationship between ergonomic work and intelligent energy efficiency. Festool product manager Patrick Haußmann explains, "Other manufacturers of cordless tools, with the motto of 'higher and faster,' compete in the conventional race for higher ampere hours. But with our new cordless range, we are focusing on increased intelligence, increased efficiency, and longer tool life."

The CARVEX PSC and PSBC 420 cordless pendulum jigsaws are ideal whenever greater sensitivity is required in sawing – even for tight curves.

To this end, Festool harnesses the intelligent interplay between its tried-and-tested brushless EC-TEC motor technology and the latest cell technologies. "The capacities which are now available can almost be measured in terms of days rather than hours, for many types of use," continues Haußmann.

Festool offers tradesmen a secure investment alongside sustainable compatibility – as Haußmann explains, "Our battery packs and tools have all been compatible for years. This even applies across systems for older battery packs with NiCd and NiMH cells, which can be used in current-generation Li-ion tools."

At Festool, the actual eventual user of the tools remains the core focus throughout the development of any tool.

According to Haußmann, "We work closely with workshops during the development of each individual tool. The clear advantage of this is that, as we constantly adapt our tools during the development phase, we gain an exact understanding of the day-to-day needs of tradesmen, and of what they actually already have – such as the years of compatibility between Festool products."

The QUADRIVE DRC cordless drill and QUADRIVE PDC cordless impact drill ensure powerful screwdriving with 60 Nm torque in first gear and precision drilling at 3,800 rpm in fourth gear. // OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

47

COVER STORY

POWERSELECT: MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY AT NO EXTRA COST Festool offers the greatest possible flexibility in configuring tools to suit specific needs. An attractive starter set includes the chosen cordless tool with battery packs, charger and accessories. For workshops that already work with the Festool cordless range, the basic version with the basic tool enclosed in a systainer is recommended. This allows the use of pre-existing battery packs and chargers.

"With PowerSelect, we offer a new, fair way to customize your purchase. It allows customers to purchase battery packs and chargers at a later date without any additional costs, so they can buy at their leisure as and when they really need to – without any of the pitfalls associated with later purchases," Haußmann confirms.

The DURADRIVE DWC cordless drywall screwdriver operates at very high speeds, making it ideal for rapid work.

INDEPENDENCE WITH A SYSTEM Festool also offers its unique SERVICE all-inclusive package for its ‘unplugged’ range. This includes: Protection from repair costs, theft protection for 36 months, ‘risk-free purchasing’ for 15 days, and a 10year ‘replacement parts availability guarantee’ (once a model has been discontinued).

A new and special feature here is that all of these services also apply to battery pack and charger accessories purchased at a later date.

Vermont Sales, exclusive importer supported by country-wide distributors, proudly offers the Festool range to meet your requirements.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

The new SYSLITE II work light ensures a perfectly lit workspace.

Vermont Sales (Pty) Ltd (t) +2711 (0) 314 7711 (w) www.vermontsales.co.za (w) www.festool-powertools.co.za

"With Festool 'unplugged,' we are focusing on increased intelligence, increased efficiency, and a longer tool life" – Patrick Haußmann, product manager.

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WOOD TREATMENT CASE STUDY

Surface treatment of wood at Hout Bay House Earlier this year Timber iQ introduced Hout Bay House, a special research project focused on exploring a unique type of timber construction suited to the Western Cape. In this issue, we learn about the protection and surface treatment of wooden elements at the site.

Article by: Eliska Oberhofnerova

BACKGROUND The Hout Bay House research project is a rare combination of expertise, utilization of ecological materials, and modern processing methods – overseen by a dedicated team of seasoned experts and young researchers. The aim of the project is to find an optimal form of timber construction, to define the ideal thickness of thermal insulation for this setting, to consider the benefits of using the air gap, and to evaluate wood degradation in specific climatic conditions of South Africa.

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PROTECTION AND SURFACE TREATMENT OF WOODEN ELEMENTS The popularity of wood has increased considerably, especially in recent years. The rise in wood use is mainly associated with the development of its utilization in construction. Wooden structures are often exposed to extreme conditions and have to be protected from the impact of biotic (insects, fungi) and abiotic factors (solar radiation, temperature, water, moisture, wind).

WOOD TREATMENT CASE STUDY

Over time, wood degrades and loses its natural properties. The degradation is influenced by specific conditions, which differ depending on both altitude and geographic location. For the application of wood in exterior settings, it is necessary to be familiar with the behaviour of individual wood species and surface treatments exposed to specific outdoor conditions. Obviously, there is a strong need to protect wood elements and thus to enhance their lifespan.

The first important prerequisite for the protection and long lifespan of wooden elements exposed to outdoor conditions is the natural durability of the wood species. The second assumption is a profound structural protection, which consists of the proper construction disposals, including the appropriate design of the façade to allow rapid drainage of rainwater, the protection of the face areas of wooden elements, etc. The next level of protection of exposed wood is its surface treatment. Surface treatments prolong the overall lifespan of wood and reduce the wear caused by climatic and other factors.

PROTECTING HOUT BAY HOUSE In the case of the Hout Bay House research project, Siberian larch wood and thermally modified pine wood was selected for the façade siding. In European conditions, these wood species are generally considered as durable, meaning they are significantly resistant to physical, chemical and biological factors.

Larch has a high resistance to climatic factors, but without a suitable surface treatment it tends to turn grey and crack. The thermally modified wood was produced by a controlled process during which the wood was exposed to high temperatures in the range of 185°C - 225°C. The process of modification changes the chemical structure of wood. This material is generally considered to be very durable with regard to given climatic conditions and does not undergo substantial dimensional changes. It is also noted to have increased resistance to rotting and cracking. Nevertheless, without treatment it has a tendency towards uneven discolouration and the formation of cracks. In the Hout Bay House project, the principles of suitable structural protection are respected and, in addition, the team proceeded to use surface treatment to increase the lifespan of the wooden elements exposed to exterior conditions.

Protective coatings by OSMO, based on natural vegetable oils, were selected as a wood surface treatment at Hout Bay House. Oils generally penetrate deep into the pores of wood, but do not plug them and allow the wood to breathe. In addition, they limit the outflow of the resin in the case of coniferous trees. Oils also repel water and reduce the dimensional changes and formation of cracks, helping to maintain the attractive and natural appearance of wood. Moreover, modern wood stains contain pigments that are able to reflect the sun rays and thus reduce degradation of wood connected with the effects of harmful UV radiation. UV radiation especially causes undesirable colour changes of the wood and loss of its strength. With regard to wood protection, those treatments containing pigments are more effective than those without pigments, which are not able to protect the wood from UV radiation unless a significant amount of active but expensive UV absorbers is added into them. Currently, products of OSMO are ranked among the finest products available on the European market. They stand out for their quality and high level of environmental friendliness.

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

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WOOD TREATMENT CASE STUDY

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WOOD TREATMENT CASE STUDY

For Hout Bay House specifically, the OSMO protective oil stain (in larch shade for Siberian larch and thermo pine, and in white shade for spruce roof overhangs) is being used. Protective oil stain is designed for exterior use and is resistant to weathering and UV radiation. This type of treatment also contains biocidal active substances which protect wood against mould, algae and fungi. The protective terraced oil Thermo is used to protect the wooden elements of terraces. It serves as a protection against the climatic factors and UV radiation. It also smooths the surface of the wood and thus repels water and dirt.

METHODS OF SURFACE TREATMENT TESTING During exposure, the research team will be discovering more about how the wood and its treatment, which is commonly used in Europe, behaves in specific conditions here in South Africa, and particularly close to the ocean. The behaviour of surface treatments of wooden façades and terrace elements will be monitored for the duration of the entire research project at Hout Bay House.

The data obtained by visual assessment of individual elements will be continuously recorded.

The reference samples of treated and untreated wood will serve for comparison and evaluation of the effect of the surface treatment on the wood degradation. During experiments, the researchers will evaluate colour changes, formation of cracks, degrees of erosion of the surface, and conditions of the surface treatment (flaking, blistering, chalking etc.).

All these observed parameters serve as important indicators of wood degradation in specific conditions. The research will allow the team to compare degradation of wood according to the orientation of the site and its position to the ocean.

It will also provide for the comparison of untreated wood and wood with surface treatment.

Degradation of wood is a long-term process, but during the testing phase already, the team is able to predict the behaviour of wood exposed to external conditions of this coastal climate in South Africa.

About the author: PhD student Eliska Oberhofnerova is part of the research team studying the Hout Bay House. She hails from the Czech University of Life Sciences in the Czech Republic. Harnessing her experience with designing houses in extreme climatic conditions, she currently focuses on the topic of degradation of wooden materials.

For more information, visit www.houtbayhouse.info.

// OCT / NOV 2015

53

GLULAM

TIMBER

FINGER JOINT BEAMS

OSB

CLT

SAWMILL

CEILING AND FLOORING

HWZ International SA Pty (Ltd.) www.hwz.co.za capetown@hwzinternational.com m.detko@hwzinternational.com gareth.hare@ifatimber.co.za

OfÞce Product specialist Distribution partner

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INDUSTRY EVENT - EXPO MILANO

EGGER: A world-class

performance on a world stage At the Expo Milano 2015, running from 1 May to 31 October 2015, Germany presents 'Fields of Ideas' - a lively, fertile landscape full of ideas and solutions. The Expo will eventually see an estimated 20 million visitors flooding through the gates, with 3 million having headed for the German Pavilion. Whether they stroll through the exhibition, sit in the restaurant, wash their hands, or experience the Be(e) interactive show - they will be surrounded by EGGER products.

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INDUSTRY EVENT - EXPO MILANO

T

he stand-out building boasts a freely accessible, 10m-high landscape level made from domestic wood. Light ‘idea seedlings’ provide shade on the gently rising wooden terrace, after which visitors enter the ‘Fields of Ideas’ in the German Pavilion. The interior houses an exhibition with ideas on the future of food, food production and sustainable consumption, and the path through the exhibition merges into the magnificent ‘Be(e) active’ show.

CHOOSING EGGER The Working Group German Pavilion (ARGE) selected EGGER as a partner to supply its wood-based materials for the interior fittings.

When the German Pavilion opened, it immediately proved to be a magnet for visitors.

Lennart Wiechell, Managing Partner at Schmidhuber and head architect, comments on the hugely successful collaboration and choice of materials: "We've been working with EGGER materials for a long time. Over the past year, we have been particularly surprised by the new surface quality of synchronized pore. For applications requiring long service life and resistance, EGGER provides entirely new opportunities, and the products also fulfil exceptionally well our requirements regarding the look and feel of the material."

Inside the German Pavilion, primarily simple, pure surfaces such as light oak decors, but also glazed Eurolight lightweight boards, are used. This is in line with the spirit of the project, says Wiechell, which focuses on the conscious and concentrated use of materials and energy.

AT THE EXHIBITION: 700 UNIQUE PIECES Inside the exhibition, the flame-retardant Eurolight lightweight board provides a striking backdrop. © Nicolas Tarantino

Inside the German Pavilion's exhibition spaces, visitors journey through the topics of soil, water, climate and biodiversity. EGGER’s flame-retardant Eurolight lightweight board, a version developed especially for Milan, was selected to provide a colourful and diverse landscape of lamellas – and it runs for four kilometres in total.

The German Pavilion stands out thanks to the 10m high accessible wooden landscape level. © SCHMIDHUBER / Milla & Partner / NÜSSLI

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

55

INDUSTRY EVENT - EXPO MILANO

Curved wall elements and ceiling panels provide a backdrop to the VIP Lounge, which serves as a bar for receiving prominent guests, as well as a retreat area for undisturbed discussions. © Nicolas Tarantino A strong, flame-retardant 16mm-thick Eurospan Flammex board with a lightweight, highly robust cardboard honeycomb core and curved design, each one of the 700 Eurolight boards differs from each other. Despite a generous lamella thickness of 51mm, the lightweight honeycomb core made of recycling paper and embedded between flame-retardant cover layers of Flammex chipboard, was easy for the transporters and installers to move and assemble. The lamellas were edged with EGGER thin MDF HD edging. These boards were used by the trade fair builder Nüssli to create hundreds of curved lamellas with integrated LED light bars. Finally, they were painted in 13 different colours and assembled on site. This is how the ‘Garden of Ideas’ with its four topic areas became an unforgettable spatial experience.

BE(E) ACTIVE The audience of the ‘Be(e) active’ show experiences a flight above Germany from a bee's perspective, with 16,000 daily visitors singing along and stamping to the beat on EGGER laminate flooring. The H2790 Moor Acacia decor from the new Laminate Flooring 2015 – 2017 collection underlines the nature theme, with modern flooring technology making the 250m2 surface easy to clean and resistant to the unusual stress it is being subjected to. (By the end of October, the floor will have had three million people step on it.)

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INNOVATION IN THE GERMAN RESTAURANT In the German Restaurant, visitors sit together at long tables and enjoy contemporary food and design, surrounded by robust yet cosy benches and cabinets.

EGGER created a flame-retardant compact laminate with Feelwood synchronized pore surface especially for the German Restaurant. It fulfils the strict fire protection regulations required, along with the high-traffic demands – combined with a contemporary design. H3309 Sand Gladstone Oak, with the synchronized pore surface ST28 Feelwood Nature, provides the tabletops and the back panels of benches with a natural oak look. This decortexture-material combination can be seen for the first time at the Expo Milano 2015. In the tradition of large world exhibitions, it is a progressive innovation.

"SYMPHONIE" RESTAURANT STYLISH IN WOODGRAIN In the "Symphonie" Restaurant, the light H1372, ST22 Natural Aragon Oak decor characterizes the entire space.

MDF was applied as a coreboard of the laminates. The wall cladding was made with 16mm Eurodekor MDF and the dining tables with EGGER compact laminate. The carefully set colour accents follow a natural look. As such, the dark woodgrain H1215, ST22 Brown Cassino Ash decor is used on tabletops and wall claddings. Combined with U961, ST15 Graphite on wardrobe, walls, and counter frontals, the room exudes calm – perfect conditions for undisturbed conversations and tasteful treats.

INDUSTRY EVENT - EXPO MILANO

The wall cladding was made with 16mm Eurodekor MDF and the tables with EGGER compact laminate. Carefully set colour accents follow natural motifs. © Nicolas Tarantino

VIP LOUNGE PROVIDES A CALMING RETREAT The VIP Lounge is used for receiving prominent guests and as a bar and retreat area for undisturbed discussions. The curved wall elements flow into the ceiling panels, creating an unimposing feature and include the H1372, ST22 Natural Aragon Oak decor, with a filigree of 13mm compact laminate Flammex. They were manufactured especially for the Expo at the EGGER headquarters in St. Johann (AT), transported to Monza close to Milan, and then cut and preassembled by the FDF carpentry. The reception desk and the counter are also made of this robust, flame-retardant material, which EGGER certified in Italy especially for this purpose. The 19mm Eurodekor MDF benches lighten the atmosphere of the VIP Lounge with the intentional contrast between W1000, ST9 Premium White and U961, ST2 Graphite.

WELL-MAINTAINED AUXILIARY ROOMS To make sure that the design concept in the lounge and restaurant toilets was not sterile, the architects incorporated natural coloured elements. Natural Aragon Oak (H1372), Driftwood (H3090) and the calm uni-colour Aubergine (U330) ensure a friendly atmosphere together with simple, white sinks. Moisture-resistant EGGER compact laminate with Feelwood synchronized pore was chosen for fixtures and mounts. Considered ‘easy care’ yet robust, it looks deceptively similar to solid wood.

EGGER AS A LEADER IN SUSTAINABILITY The sustainable use of wood is a central value at EGGER and includes the concept of cascading use: Timber is made of high-quality log wood, and wood-based materials are made of sawmill by-products, wood from sustainably managed woodlands, and recycled materials. Wood that can no longer be used to make products is thermally converted by EGGER. In addition, the company develops technologies to reduce the amount of wood used in its products, such as the Eurolight lightweight board used in the German Pavilion. It requires less material than a comparable solid wood board of the same thickness.

EGGER has customers worldwide in the furniture industry, wood distribution and DIY markets. EGGER products are found in countless areas of private and public life – in kitchens, bathrooms, offices, hotels and shops. EGGER considers itself a full-range supplier for the furniture industry and interior design, wood construction and laminate flooring.

With innovative products and a growing turnover in a challenging market context, EGGER is recognized as a leader in its industry.

For more information, visit www.egger.com.

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

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INDUSTRY EVENT - EXPO MILANO

In the German Restaurant, visitors enjoy contemporary food and design. This is where you can encounter an absolute innovation from EGGER: The innovative flame-retardant compact laminate with the Feelwood synchronized pore surface features here and was specifically developed by EGGER for the German Pavilion. Š Nicolas Tarantino

PRODUCTS USED IN THE GERMAN PAVILION Exhibition

Lamellas: Eurolight lightweight board Flammex with 16mm cover layers and support edging made of ThinMDF HD Bench: MDF, decor: Premium White W1000 ST2

VIP Lounge

Lamellas on ceiling and wall: Compact laminate Flammex 8mm, decor: H1372, ST22 Natural Aragon Oak Wardrobe, welcome furniture: Compact laminate Flammex 13mm, decor: W1000, ST2 Premium White, U961, ST15 Graphite

German Restaurant

Tables, benches: Compact laminate Flammex 13mm, decor: H3309 Sand Gladstone Oak, ST28 Feelwood Nature Refreshment bar: Construction made of 19mm, flame-retardant Eurospan Flammex Counter frontals: Laminate MDF 16mm core board, decor: H1372, ST22 Aragon Oak Nature, H1215, ST22 Brown Cassino Ash and U961, ST15 Graphite

"Symphonie" Restaurant Table tops: Compact laminate 13mm, decor: H1215, ST22 Brown Cassino Ash Wall cladding, wardrobe: MDF board 16 mm, decor: as above

Dining room Counter frontals, rear side, worktop: Compact laminate Flammex 13mm, decor: Graphite U961 ST15 WC VIP-Lounge: Compact laminate 13mm, decor: H1372, ST22 Natural Aragon Oak Sanitary areas

"Symphonie" Restaurant toilet: Compact laminate 13mm, decor: U330, ST9 Aubergine, H3090, ST22 Driftwood German Restaurant toilet: Compact laminate 13mm, decor: H3309 Sand Gladstone Oak ST28 Feelwood Nature

Showroom

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Floor: EGGER laminate flooring H2790 Moor Acacia

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 //

The look and feel of solid wood with extra advantages. www.egger.com/feelwood

The Feelwood synchronised pore is available in a double-sided option. It creates the look and feel of solid wood, with an impressive range of natural decors with deep textures. Order your sample now at www.egger.com/myegger.

TIMBER PRESERVATION

Photograph by Randen Pederson - Wood and Creosote Texture.

Understanding timber preservation Part 3: Wood Preservation

The science of wood preservation is the treatment of wood to increase its durability and give it an extended service life. This involves the placement, within the wood microstructure, of preservative chemicals that are antagonistic to wood-destroying agencies.

SOME MAJOR FACTORS THAT BEAR ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF BIOLOGICAL PRESERVATION SYSTEMS ARE: • The biological hazard to which the wood will be subjected in service.

• The toxicity of the preservative chemical to the particular wood-destroying organisms that will be encountered. Also, the permanence of the preservative chemical under given conditions of hazard following treatment of the wood.

• The extent of the penetration of the preservative chemical into the cross section of the timber as well as the amount retained in the penetrated zone per cubic metre of the wood.

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A SIMILAR SET OF FACTORS DETERMINES THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PRESERVATIVE TREATMENTS AGAINST WEATHERING AND FIRE. OTHER RELEVANT FACTORS INCLUDE THE: • Natural durability of the wood; • Presence or absence of sapwood; • Variability within and between pieces and species, and • Preservative distribution gradient.

TIMBER PRESERVATION

Timber used for landscaping is usually in direct ground contact and it is recommended that it be treated with CCA or Creosote.

HAZARDS DEFINED The hazards to which wood material will be subjected have an enormous bearing on the extent to which wood preservation will be effective. A piece of wood kept continually dry inside a building is subject to a much lower hazard than a piece embedded in the ground. Broad categories of typical hazards, ranging from low to high hazard, are as follows: (a) Interior or indoor timbers (e.g. framing, linings, joinery, etc.) (b) Exterior timbers, outdoors and above ground (e.g. cladding, barge boards, window joinery, palings, rails, bridge decking, etc.) (c) Ground contact (e.g. posts, foundation piles, poles, house stumps, crib walls, landscape timbers, playground equipment, bridge and wharf timbers, etc.) (d) Timber used in fresh water or heavy wet soil (e.g. poles for livestock pens, piling, jetties, etc.) (e) Marine timbers (e.g. marine piles, sea walls, etc.)

PRESERVATIVE TREATED TIMBER HAZARD CLASSES

For marine piling, double pressure impregnation with CCA followed by Creosote is required.

H2

Low hazard

Inside and above ground

H3

Moderate hazard

Outside above ground

H4

High hazard

Outside in ground

H5

High hazard

Outside in contact with heavy wet soil or in fresh water

H6

High hazard

Prolonged immersion in sea water

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

61

TIMBER PRESERVATION

This jetty is in constant contact with fresh water and heavy wet soil (H5), and must be effectively protected against all forms of biological deterioration.

The hazard level determines the required intensity of the key wood preservation factors, namely the toxicity of the preservative chemical, its fixing characteristics, the penetration required, and the retention required. For example, interior timbers may require protection only against wood borers (necessitating a simple borer-specific, unfixed chemical like boron), penetration only in the outer sapwood, and a very low retention level. However, for ground contact hazards, a heavy-duty preservative such as a CCA or Creosote is required, with continuous penetration to a significant depth – and with relatively high retentions.

WOOD PRESERVATIVE CHEMICALS All wood preservatives in South Africa that contain active ingredients (biocides) are classified as agricultural remedies and must therefore be registered by the Department of Agriculture. Once registered, a National Standard must be prepared by the South African National Standards Authority. Only then may the preservative be used for industrial and commercial purposes. A ‘Protocol for the Approval of Wood Preservatives in South Africa’ is available from SAWPA.

WATER-BORNE PRESERVATIVES Traditionally, water-borne preservatives are inorganic chemicals dissolved in water (with the water acting as a carrier in the treatment process), although there have been some recent additions of alternatives that contain organic or a mixture of organic and inorganic chemicals. The waterborne preservatives leave the treated wood odourless and clean to the touch, sometimes imparting a colouration.

They wet the timber during the treatment process, often causing dimensional variation, but once the carrier water has dried out, they have no effect on the moisture content of the wood.

THERE ARE TWO MAIN TYPES OF WATERBORNE PRESERVATIVES COMMONLY USED IN SOUTH AFRICA. 1. Non-fixed, such as the borate compound which is subject to water leaching.

2. Fixed, such as the copper-chrome-arsenic (CCA) preservative, which is highly leach resistant.

BORATE COMPOUNDS WOOD PRESERVATIVES MAY BE DIVIDED INTO THREE MAIN GROUPS: 1. Water-borne (CCA, Borate, Copper Azole and ACQ) 2. Oil-borne (Creosote or mixtures of Creosote and coal tar solutions) 3. Light organic solvent-borne preservatives (TBTN-P and Azole-permethrin)

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Borate products are available as inorganic borates and can be applied as a dip diffusion treatment to green wood or as a vacuum pressure process to dry wood. The product has the ability to diffuse deeply into the wood. The dip treatment can achieve full heartwood penetration. This process depends on sufficient time being allowed and on moisture content being maintained at 500g/kg minimum and above. Treated wood is not coloured and, when it is dry, can be painted, glued or stained.

Pressure Treated Timber Timber with a moisture content below 20% cannot rot. This may not always be possible when used outside in exposed conditions as it requires proper application and maintenance of a suitable penetrating and water repellent wood sealer.

The options are to use either naturally durable but expensive exotic hardwoods, or less costly locally grown non-durable Pine or Eucalyptus (gum) timber or poles, that have been pressure treated with a suitable wood preservative to the desired exposure or hazard class.

The H class system is a guide to help you buy the correctly treated timber for your project.

Be sure to look for the required H class on the timber as well as one of the two quality marks given below.

Sustainable Timber Resource Timber is the most sustainable building product available to man. It’s naturally renewable. Over 90% of plantations grown in South Africa are FSC® certified.

Hazard classes: H2— dry interior above ground H3— exterior above ground H4— in ground contact H5— in contact with fresh water and wet soil H6— in contact with marine waters

For more information on preservative treated timber, or where to find a SAWPA member, contact us on 011 974 1061 or sawpa@global.co.za or visit our website at www.sawpa.co.za

A member of

TIMBER PRESERVATION The chemical remains water soluble in the wood and should be used only for interior applications. It may be used for external applications where the wood is not in contact with the ground and is properly protected and maintained with weatherproof coatings to prevent leaching.

COPPER CHROME ARSENIC (CCA) The copper-chrome-arsenic compounds are heavy-duty wood preservatives covering a wide biological spectrum without being subject to significant leaching. The copper is a fungicide and the arsenic is an insecticide plus a back-up fungicide. The chrome acts as a fixing agent, reacting in the presence of wood cellulose to render the copper and arsenic chemicals insoluble. CCA is applied by vacuum pressure impregnation, and solution concentration can be varied according to the desired retention. CCA-treated timber is odourless and can be readily painted or stained once dry. It has a characteristic light green colouration.

Where a ‘salts’ type CCA formulation has been used, white powder occasionally forms on the surface of the wood for some weeks or months following treatment. The powder is sodium sulphate, which is quite harmless, being rather like table salt, and can be hosed, scrubbed or wiped off. The white powder does not form where an ‘oxide’ type CCA formulation has been used. Hot-dipped-galvanized or stainless steel fasteners are recommended for CCA-treated timber.

ALTERNATIVES TO CCA Although not yet widely available in South Africa, copper azoles (CuAz) and alkaline-copper-quaternary (ACQ) preservatives are more recent additions and alternatives to CCA. They are applied by the same processes as for CCA, are suitable for H2 to H5 end applications, and have most of the characteristics normally associated with CCA – but also offer the end user environmental, health and safety benefits.

Creosote-treated wood is resistant to water leaching and can be used for ground contact hazard. Its water repellency gives it excellent weathering characteristics. Creosotetreated wood usually has a characteristic odour. It is usually black and may, through 'bleeding,' exhibit black deposits on the wood surface. Creosote is an excellent preservative for heavy duty applications such as transmission and telephone poles, railway sleepers, foundation and marine piles, bridge timbers, etc.

LIGHT ORGANIC SOLVENT PRESERVATIVES (LOSP) The term LOSP (light organic solvent preservative) actually describes the carrier of the preservative and the LOSPs vary greatly according to the preservative chemicals with which they are formulated. LOSPs are solutions of organic fungicides (such as tributyltin-oxide) and insecticides (synthetic pyrethroids). They are suitable for interior, above-ground hazards such as in housing and other buildings. Effective preservative treatment of wood can only be achieved by impregnation in a vacuum pressure plant.

TBTN-P and Azole-permethrin are medium-duty, light organic solvent preservatives. Today, the active ingredients used are internationally acceptable ingredients that have health, safety and environmental properties, compared to lindane (now banned) that was previously used in TBTOL. It can combine effective insecticides and fungicides into a solvent carrier such as white spirits, allowing these to penetrate the wood without causing dimensional distortion, meaning a change in the size or shape of the wood. It is suitable for use internally (under cover) or for use externally if it does not have contact with the ground and if protective coatings are used. The wood is not discoloured. However, some initial odour is possible until the solvent has fully evaporated.

Wood may then also be glued or painted. Application is by low pressure vacuum plant. The solvent may contain plasticizers, pigment or waxy oils to improve the appearance and performance of this preservative.

OIL-BORNE PRESERVATIVES In South Africa, the only oil-borne preservative that has been used is Creosote, and mixtures of Creosote and coal tar solutions – with or without a waxy oil additive. Oilborne preservatives are applied in hot and cold open bath or in vacuum pressure impregnation plants, and always at elevated temperatures to lessen viscosity and increase uptake.

The concentration of oil-borne preservative chemicals cannot normally be changed in the same way that the water-bornes can. Consequently, required retentions must be met by variation in processing technique. Creosote is a heavy-duty preservative that is toxic to most fungi and insects. It does not alter the dimension of the wood during treatment and is highly water repellent.

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ANTISAPSTAINS These are a range of preservatives applied by dip or spray to provide short-term protection for the timber against mould, or staining fungi during the seasoning period, e.g. on freshly felled logs.

PENETRATION AND RETENTION The primary objective of wood preservation is to achieve, within every piece of timber, a defined retention of preservative chemical within a defined penetrated zone of the cross section, each being predetermined by a number of factors, most particularly the hazard level to which the timber is to be treated.

MANUFACTURER AND SUPPLIER OF ALL MOULDED PINE TIMBER PRODUCTS: FLOORING, DECKING, CEILINGS, HALF LOG CLADDING, SOLID LOG WALL SYSTEMS, BALUSTRADING, HANDRAILS, LAMINATED POSTS.

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TIMBER PRESERVATION

Railway sleepers in direct ground and therefore subject to severe decay, wood-boring insects and termites are classified under Hazard Class 4.

Retention is closely linked to ‘threshold,’ which is the minimum amount of a particular chemical per mass of wood material that will prevent degrade of the wood.

Threshold values vary widely in respect of the particular chemical, the particular species of fungus, borer, termite, etc., and the particular species of wood. Below threshold levels, degrade will occur, but above threshold levels it will not. Retention for a particular hazard is set at the highest threshold likely to be required plus an allowance for variation, plus a factor for safety. (Variation occurs particularly because of different densities of timber and differences in the absorption of the wood preservative in a given parcel of timber in the treatment cylinder.)

It is vital that the required retention for a given hazard is achieved in the treated wood, otherwise premature failure may well occur. It is equally vital that the required degree of penetration is achieved so that an effective zone of treated wood is created.

In summary, the key to wood preservation is the application of a known preservative chemical to a defined zone of penetration at a known required retention.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS SAWPA gratefully acknowledges the contribution of the Timber Preservers Association of Australia (TPAA) towards this article.

SAWPA is an organization comprising timber treaters, suppliers of preservatives, as well as organizations, institutions and individuals with a mutual interest in timber preservation and the use of preservative-treated timber. SAWPA promotes the benefits of timber preservation, assists in the establishment of and adherence to standard specifications for preservative treatment of timber, and supports the maintenance of standards in all sectors of the preservation industry.

SAWPA is a facilitator to the industry and an information centre for both consumer and industry affairs.

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

SAWMILLERS AND SUPPLIERS OF QUALITY SAWN BOARD

Manufacturers of pine board, decking, cladding, ceiling and flooring.

TEL: 033 – 940 0040 EMAIL: lumbersales@ucl.co.za WEBSITE: www.midlandspine.co.za

BRACKEN TIMBERS Growers and Sawmillers of Quality Pine Timber TEL: 074 136 6666 FAX: 033-4131355 / 086 602 6795 CELL: 076 413 5900 E-MAIL: milladmin@brackentimbers.co.za Main Dundee Road, Greytown, 3250 P O Box 141, Greytown, 3250

“The South African Wood Preservers Association (SAWPA) is an industry body that represents the primary timber treatment industry consisting of treatment plants as well as the suppliers of chemical wood preservatives to these plants. Our main objective is to promote the treatment of timber and the use of treated timber, whilst we also act as a centre for technical information and represent our members on different forums on matters of importance related to the industry.”

www.sawpa.co.za

WOOD PRESERVATION EVENT

Arch: Promoting Wood Preservation in East Africa The East African wood preservation industry and its partner, Arch Wood Protection South Africa, have taken a giant leap forward in the promotion of quality treated timber in East Africa.

A

seminar titled “The Future of the Utility Pole in East Africa” was recently presented in Nairobi, Kenya, by the Tanalised™ team at Arch together with the Kenya Wood Preservers Association (KWPA) and local distributor Express Company Limited. The vision behind the seminar was to set in motion a series of steps to improve the quality of treated timber and ultimately increase the lifespan of utility poles.

Doug Sayce, General Manager of Arch Wood Protection South Africa, explains the decision behind the hosting of the seminar, “Wood preservation in East Africa is a dynamic and growing industry that plays a significant role in infrastructure projects, employment and economic growth in rural areas. There is therefore a need for the wood industry to ensure the continued and sustainable longterm growth of treated timber.”

The seminar was geared towards looking at ways to improve the quality of wood preservation treatment in East Africa, particularly the treatment of transmission poles. It focused on the timber treatment process and the importance of quality control in the treating plant environment, and also touched on the contentious issue around the perception that treated poles did not deliver the desired product lifespan. This provided a valuable opportunity for Arch to unveil some of the tools in its battery of resources to improve quality control.

The seminar was well attended by business owners, treatment plant managers, wood scientists, certification bodies and the end-users of treated poles. An important participant in the seminar was Annie Gatukui, the Supply Chain Manager – Logistics, at the Kenya Power & Lighting Company. She impressed upon the participants to make a concerted effort to improve the service life of utility poles.

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 //

SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME Godfrey Ali, Chairman of the Kenya Wood Preservers Association, said, “The seminar was very informative and well organized. The presentations were impactful and delivered powerful tools to equip us to take on the treated timber market. It could not have come at a better time than this.”

Daryll Ehrke, Export Manager at Arch Wood Protection, concluded, “This is the first seminar of its kind to bring industry players in East Africa together, and we are pleased with the positive feedback received. Developing a longterm sustainable treatment industry, the acknowledgement by the local industry that there is a need to improve the standard and quality of treated poles, and the understanding that customers will use more timber poles if they can be assured of the long-term performance of treated timber are among the positive outcomes of the seminar that we believe will have a positive impact on the future of wood preservation in East Africa.”

TIMBER PROFILE - AMERICAN CHERRY AND MAPLE

The Invisible Store of Happiness.

TIMBER PROFILE - AMERICAN CHERRY AND MAPLE

In Pursuit of Happiness The Invisible Store of Happiness is a three-metre high ode to wood and craftsmanship. The installation involved two of the UK's brightest talents - furniture designer/maker Sebastian Cox and artist Laura Ellen Bacon - who took three months to craft the elaborate structure.

S

howcased for the Clerkenwell Design Week in May 2015, in the archway in front of the historic Museum of the Order of St John in London, the dramatic installation was handcrafted out of American soft maple and cherry and consisted of a mighty steam-bent frame that gave way to thinner, weaveable strips manipulated to twist and flow into a whirlpool of texture and shape.

The American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) commissioned and supported the project to allow experimentation with these timbers and to celebrate their potential. Working with Sebastian Cox, one of the UK’s foremost furniture makers, challenges the way wood works in a way nobody else does. And Laura Ellen Bacon, with her artistic sensibility, coupled with her wonderful sculptural work in willow, was the perfect complement to Cox’s approach. Cox conceived the project and, led by his growing passion for Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), took it to AHEC as a proposal. He then asked Bacon to join him for the project.

THE ARTISTS' PERSPECTIVE “The Invisible Store, for me, has become a store of many things,” says Cox. “It started out as a store of our shared passion of making, but as the project unfolded, it became a store of much more: education, ambition, pride, late nights, steam, experimentation, unknown quantities, passion, cups of tea, swear words, and so on! The whole thing has been the biggest thing we’ve ever undertaken, and we couldn’t have done it without Laura’s creativity, experience and calm nature.”

The maple and cherry have been crafted into an ellipticalshape frame that showcases fine craftsmanship and impeccable cabinetry on a grand scale, with huge arcs of steam-bent cherry wood, hand-jointed together in mostly glueless draw-bore mortice and tenon joints. Through complex machinery, the components of this solid frame were effectively shredded into strips and made supple and weaveable from time spent soaking in the River Thames beside Cox’s Woolwich workshop. These strips were boldly manipulated by hand, flowing and twisting into the space to create a whirlpool of texture and shape, all held within its mighty external frame.

“As a sculptor, I have enjoyed the refinement of form that has been possible with these woods; allowing the curves and stability formed in the head to find their feet in the finished, grounded form,” says Bacon. “I know this to be a true collaboration: both Sebastian and I have merged our language of form and function, like merging two colours to acquire a new shade. For my part, I was hoping to find a way to distill the act of making into a solid form of containment, perhaps a little like blending a perfume and pouring it into a vessel. With our use of scale, solidity and precision, we have been able to use the wood as the essence.”

CARBON FOOTPRINT Cox is best known for making handmade furniture with sustainable materials from the UK’s woodlands, but his passion for the progressive research AHEC is conducting into LCA led him to approach AHEC. Using the latest LCA modelling techniques developed by thinkstep (formerly PE International), the Invisible Store of Happiness has been environmentally profiled and the carbon footprint of the whole structure, on a cradle-to-grave basis, is just 173kg CO2 equivalent. That’s less than an iPad Air 2. The hardwood forest resource in America is so vast that the wood used in the Invisible Store of Happiness will have been replaced in the time it takes to walk from one end of the installation to the other.

“We can use data from AHEC and the United States Forest Service to calculate how quickly timbers we use get replaced in the USA forests through natural regeneration. I was fascinated to see the speed at which the timber I used in the Wish List project (for the London Design Festival 2014) was regenerated in the American woodlands. I believe the entire design community should be more aware of LCA and we should be dedicated to measuring the environmental impact of the things we design and make.

Similarly, people should be able to know the true environmental impact of the things they buy and have in their homes. Projects like this demonstrate the importance of things like LCA,” adds Cox.

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TIMBER PROFILE - AMERICAN CHERRY AND MAPLE

Sebastian Cox and Laura Ellen Bacon making The Invisible Store of Happiness.

PROJECT CHALLENGE The challenge for the CDW installation was to raise the profile of maple and cherry, both beautiful and yet under-appreciated American hardwoods, and to create a three-dimensional form to communicate the environmental benefits of using them. AHEC wanted to challenge perceptions of hardwood, both as a material and as a sustainable and growing resource. With this installation in one of the most important locations (the archway at the Order of St John) and created by two such passionate and interesting designers, AHEC has been able to create an environment where people are choosing to use American hardwoods because of a better understanding of the material. That understanding encompasses everything from craftsmanship to environmental concerns. “This collaboration exploits the qualities of wood. The exterior of the piece speaks of its rigidity, its structural qualities; the interior tells of how this may be rendered flexible, descriptive, expressive and loose. The project also pushed the boundaries of what is technically possible with wood, given that one of the challenges for wood right now is embracing innovation. Sebastian and Laura shared their findings throughout the process, not just with AHEC, but with a team of interns and students. In this way, the project embodied not just the joy of making, of fruitful collaboration and focused endeavour, but also advocacy and education,� concludes Roderick Wiles, AHEC Director, Africa, Middle East, South Asia and Oceania.

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ABOUT AMERICAN CHERRY (Prunus serotina) The heartwood of American cherry varies from rich red to reddish brown and will darken on exposure to light. In contrast, the sapwood is creamy white. Cherry can be supplied steamed to darken sapwood, or left unsteamed. The wood has a fine, uniform straight grain, smooth texture, and may naturally contain brown pith flecks and small gum pockets.

ABOUT AMERICAN SOFT MAPLE (Acer rubrum/Acer saccharinum) In most respects, the wood of soft maple is very similar to that of hard maple. But due to its widespread growth, it may be more susceptible to regional colour variations.

In general, the sapwood is greyish white, sometimes with darker-coloured pith flecks, and the heartwood varies from light to dark reddish-brown. The wood is usually straight grained. The lumber is generally sold unselected for colour.

TIMBER PROFILE - AMERICAN CHERRY AND MAPLE

The Invisible Store of Happiness.

LIFESTYLE

Billy Reeder in the log cabin he built.

Cabin People This inspiring account shares how, when Billy Reeder decided to build his own log cabin, he also built a new life. A simple life. A good life.

Story by: Billy Reeder (Arkansas, USA) Original article first featured in: The Wood-Mizer Way, Edition 95, Spring/Summer 2015 “The world is still dark when I wake. There is only the faintest hint of red on the eastern horizon as I flip on the lights of the cabin. It is cold outside.

As the daylight begins to emerge, the greyness of early morning is reflected on the frost that covers our world. I slowly make my way down the stairs to add wood to the stove and pour myself a cup of coffee. My wife, Paula, is already up and getting ready for school, with bacon and eggs frying on the stove. After breakfast, we say our goodbyes as she heads off to teach her students and I walk down the hill to the shed and get on my tractor to go feed cows before I also head to my day job.

By now, the sun is breaking over the horizon and a plume of smoke is rising from the flue. The world is waking up. The horses are kicking their feed buckets and nickering for my attention.

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The heifers, seeing me out, start working their way to their feed troughs. On most mornings, I can see a dozen or so deer grazing in our hay field below the cabin. I set my coffee mug into its holder as I crank the tractor to life.�

"I went into the woods to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived."

- Henry David Thoreau

LIFESTYLE

We had a couple of things going for us. A year earlier, I had purchased a Wood- Mizer LT15 to mill lumber for repairs around the farm, and we had a plot of land that was mortgage free. But with it feeling like the world was falling apart around us, we decided to do what it takes to build a log cabin from scratch. We just had a few rules.

1. It had to be built completely debt free.

2. There would be no deadline on when it would be finished.

3. It had to be built strong enough to endure generations of use.

4. It had to be beautiful.

Billy Reeder’s original sketched floor plan for “The Cabin.”

A LIFE CHOICE “This is our life. It’s a good life. It’s a life we worked hard to have. The financial crash of 2008 hit a little too close to home. Watching so many others lose their life savings and homes as the result of a financial system out of control, we realized how close we came to being part of that statistic.

It was then that we decided we would choose a different life. A simple life. A good life. We wanted to invest in things that matter and get away from the things that offered an illusion of security and nothing more. We wanted to be self-reliant. But money was tight.

So, one night I sketched out a floor plan on a piece of paper and started searching for trees.

MAKING IT POSSIBLE A few months before we made the decision to build, a wave of tornadoes blew through Arkansas and caused a swath of damage across the state. Part of that damage was in the Ozark National Forest, about an hour north of the farm, where the storm had blown over about 50 mature yellow pine trees. When I called the forest service, they offered me a salvage permit to log the trees. And over the course of a month, I logged out the timber with nothing more than a chainsaw, a tractor, and a utility trailer.”

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LIFESTYLE

“Then, during what seemed like one of the hottest Arkansas summers in history, I cranked up the LT15 and began milling up the pine into sawn timber and 152mm x 304mm cants.

It was over the course of the next four years of working weekends and evenings, cutting out all unessential expenses in our lives, that the pile of pine became a 74m² log cabin. And when the last nail was driven, it was ours. Apart from some plywood, every stick of timber was milled by me.

MAKING IT A REALITY

Billy Reeder operating his Wood-Mizer LT15 sawmill.

I get asked fairly often where I learned to build a log cabin. The truth is, that’s the wrong question. The knowledge of building the thing isn’t the hard part. You learn as you go. The hard part is getting over inertia. Newton’s first law of motion says that an object at rest will stay at rest unless acted upon by another force. That cabin wasn’t going to build itself.

The hardest part was getting up one day and actually doing something tangible to make it a reality. After that, the hard part was dedicating what little free time I had to the cabin – and learning to be okay with slow progress. It was cutting out things we used to consider necessities and working part-time jobs to pay for materials. It was the cold weekends I slept in the cabin without windows or heat so I could save gas money and time driving back and forth. And it was stepping away from it when I was getting tired and sloppy.

But then one day it was finished. And as much as the landscape had changed, so had I. For the better.

I owe a lot to that LT15. Of all the tools at my disposal, it proved one of the most valuable at making my goal a reality. While not a big mill, it’s a workhorse. It chewed through every log I offered, no matter how hard, and never failed me. It isn’t complicated, and it’s willing to work all day, every day. And that’s the way I like it. And years later, it’s still going strong as I mill lumber for barns, sheds, fences and other projects around the farm. That mill has saved me thousands of dollars in lumber.

And so we continue to build our world. A little at a time, as money and time allow. Each day a little closer to being completely self-sufficient. Each day building the life that we want. A deliberate life. A good life.”

WHAT'S NEXT? Billy Reeder is currently working on various projects around the farm, including the restoration of an old barn that involves salvaging 5,800mm rafters. He has produced a video series titled ‘Cabin People,’ and is at the forefront of a widely supported micro-cabin movement, which entails small cabinlike shelters used by the local homeless population in Arkansas.

For more information, connect with Cabin People on Facebook and YouTube, or visit www.CabinPeople.com.

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The cabin interior was built with lumber milled by Billy Reeder and his Wood-Mizer LT15 sawmill.

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XIV WORLD FORESTRY CONGRESS

Forestry: A new vision "In the African culture, if you have an event and it rains as you are about to close, it signifies that it has been a good event." - The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Senzeni Zokwana, speaking at the closing plenary session of the XIV WFC in Durban on 11 September 2015.

T

here is no argument that forests and forestry, including the industry here in South Africa, face many challenges in today’s world. In the lead-up to the 2015 XIV World Forestry Congress (WFC), proudly hosted in Durban from 7 – 11 September, it became evident that a contained set of key aspects had to be identified to help focus Congress deliberations and create achievable goals that all stakeholders could partake in. By all accounts, it was a prudent approach. In line with the WFC’s aim, a new vision is starting to emerge – a new way of thinking and acting for the future of forests and forestry in sustainable development at all levels. A set of focused but comprehensive Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 have successfully been created, affirmed by accompanying documentation, with these important aspects of forests and forestry to feature strongly in the future of forests: • Improving food security and livelihoods • Integrating forests and other land uses • Making forests a solution to climate change

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FORESTRY CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS IN SOUTH AFRICA The Congress directly addressed very real issues that are today affecting countries across the world in a very real way. At the start of the Congress proceedings, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa identified, inter alia, the following transnational problems with regards to forestry – problems that we are also facing here in South Africa: • Extreme weather conditions and related phenomena, including drought and forest fires. Forests play an important part in mitigating the harmful effects of climate change, have been referred to as the ‘planet’s carbon sink,’ and must be understood and acknowledged.

When the XIV World Forestry Congress opened on 7 September, a millionth tree was planted as part of our Million Trees Programme and to launch the Legacy Projects for South Africa.

XIV WORLD FORESTRY CONGRESS

• Accelerated population growth, bringing about the critical issue of food security. Forests are a source of more than just wood, with many communities harvesting a wide range of food products from the forest environment. We must actively guard against deforestation, which can be brought about when societal pressure to feed people pushes the boundaries of capacity yields. We need to find ways to ensure the multi-use of land whilst also ensuring the sustainable growth of our forestry assets.

Organization of the United Nations) and DAFF (Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries) have committed to working together in monitoring the implementation and management of these projects.

• A shortage of potable water, made worse in times of drought. The role of forests in the larger picture of water security must be recognized. In Africa, permanent flowing rivers tend to originate in forested or wooded areas. Policy makers and regulators have to balance the demands of plantation forestry with water rights in water-scarce environments.

• The rehabilitation of natural forests in Adams Mission, Nkandla and Ingquza Hill Heritage Site.

• Work has started in Adams Mission, where 11 hectares of natural forest have been cleared of alien invasive species and 400 indigenous trees have been planted. The project is a partnership between DAFF and the eThekwini Municipality, and the young people of the area (Future Leaders of Change).

• Sappi has built a weighbridge in Hluhluwe, north of KwaZulu-Natal, which will help to reduce the costs of transport (by 70km) for the small growers.

• The ‘Beat Leptocybe’ project has been established, to help eradicate and prevent the spread of this global pest that is attacking eucalyptus plantations. This programme will help small growers to protect their plantations against this pest.

• The ‘One Tree, One Child’ project was initiated by the Eastern Cape Provincial government and promotes the planting of both indigenous and fruit trees, whilst educating school children about ecosystem management.

• The pressures of development often threaten biodiversity. Policies governing the forestry sector should be mindful of the indisputable role forests play in sustaining and protecting biodiversity.

Mr Ramaphosa went on to describe the vibrant commercial forestry sector in South Africa, critical in supplying our domestic wood and wood product needs whilst earning valuable foreign currency through our wood chip and cellulose exports.

A particular challenge facing the sector is the matter of some 50% — 60% of plantation land currently being under land claims as part of our land restitution process.

Land restitution will result in significant changes in the ownership of the country’s forestry lands, with already more than 24,000 small growers (many of them women) entering the forestry sector as relatively new entrants, according to Mr Ramaphosa. It is important to provide adequate support to these small growers so that they can successfully develop their businesses and become fully participative within industry.

Another opportunity that cannot go amiss is the engagement of the youth, whom Mr Ramaphosa described as central to the achievement of a sustainable future, holding the responsibility of expanding their horizons to find a role for themselves in the future development of the forestry sector at home and beyond.

For South Africa specifically, the Congress has highlighted how forestry can contribute to food security, job creation and economic growth – but we have to be committed to combating deforestation and forest degradation. Through the South African Local Organizing Committee, community development programmes have been initiated to contribute towards skills development, entrepreneurial development, and ultimately the alleviation of poverty.

These programmes will be sustainable through strong, collaborative partnerships. To ensure proper awareness and open communication, the FAO (Food and Agriculture

SOUTH AFRICA'S LEGACY PROJECTS The Legacy Projects that have been identified cover both forests and trees outside forests. Some of the projects, as described by Minister Zokwana, are highlighted here:

THE YOUTH - THE FUTURE The Minister acknowledged a Vision submission by 162 youth who attended the Congress as a commitment of their participation in future decision making in the sustainable management of forests. They now have a platform through which to claim their space as the voices of the next generation of foresters.

In closing the Congress, the Minister parted with some memorable words, reiterating again that forests are our natural heritage and the lungs of the earth that sustain all lives. And more specifically, “My message to the young people is that the vision of the World Forestry Congress 2015, ‘Forests and People: Investing in a sustainable future,’ is now in your hands.”

Reference: The XIV World Forestry Congress, website: http://webapps.daff.gov.za/wfc2015/English/News.html (Accessed 17 September 2015)

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FORESTRY LAND CLAIM SETTLEMENT

Forestry land restored to the Mkhuzane community in Richmond.

Mondi successfully settles more land claims to benefit communities

In July this year, Mondi (Pty) Ltd signed a settlement agreement with the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform and the two communities of Mkhuzane and Nodunga for land claims in the KwaZulu-Natal areas of Richmond and Stanger respectively.

T

he resulting lease agreements between Mondi and the two communities involved will serve to foster commercial forestry, running for an initial period of 10 years and being subject to further renewal thereafter.

Mkhuzane community for land in Richmond (UMgungudlovu District Municipality) and the Nodunga community in respect of land in Stanger (Illembe District Municipality). The land claimed had been owned by Mondi (Pty) Ltd (Mondi).

DETAILS OF THE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS

In terms of the settlement of the two properties, the state has purchased 1,781 hectares (ha) of land at a cost of R26.9-million for the Mkhuzane community and 685ha at a cost of R7.4-million for the Nodunga community.

According to a statement issued by the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights, the Settlement Agreements form part of the settlement of land claims lodged by the

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FORESTRY LAND CLAIM SETTLEMENT

Signing event, from the left: KZN MEC for Agriculture, Mr Cyril Xaba; Inkosi Sithole of the Mkhuzane Community; Mondi Head of Land, Maurice Makhathini; Deputy Minister for Rural Development and Land Reform, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini; Inkosi Zulu of the Nodunga Community.

The settlement arrangement further includes the signing of lease agreements between Mondi and each of the two communities – for the purpose of commercial forestry – to run for an initial 10 years, renewable for another 10 years thereafter.

As part of the initial lease agreement, Mondi will assist both communities to set up forestry contracting businesses, thereby enabling them to acquire vital skills necessary to benefit from business opportunities on the land. The goal is for the communities to, gradually over time, take over the forestry operations completely and supply the industry.

Government also has a role to play in the terms of reference for capacity building of the communities, and has undertaken to procure service providers to provide training and capacity building for the communities so that they can manage the lease, resolve disputes, and manage the land.

Furthermore, within six months of the transfer of the land, a PRA process will be undertaken by Mondi and the government, leading to a community business plan that

will detail projects according to the aspirations of the communities. This business plan will be submitted to different arms of government and other funders.

In addition, during the first year of lease, a rental fee of 7% of the value of the afforestable land will be paid by Mondi to each community in respect of land leased from the communities. (This amounts to an estimated R1.6-million to the Mkhuzane and R507,000 to the Nodunga community.)

BENEFICIAL OUTCOMES In total, 247 households comprising 880 beneficiaries from the Mkhuzane community, and 376 households comprising 2,256 beneficiaries from the Nodunga community, will benefit from the settlement agreement with Mondi.

One standout commitment from Mondi is the company’s funding of two university bursaries per claimant community. Claimant community children can also apply for the competitive Mondi bursary support programme and compete with others for such bursaries.

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FORESTRY LAND CLAIM SETTLEMENT

At the signing of the agreements, Rural Development and Land Reform Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini observed, “I commend Mondi for taking the journey with the Department in the quest for reformation of the land ownership patterns through, besides others, the Restitution of Land Rights programme. We cannot overemphasize that, for land reform to succeed in this country, all must come to the party. This is the kind of development that we envisaged when the democratic government introduced the land restitution programme in 1994. It is also in line with our proclamation in the Freedom Charter that South Africa belongs to all those who live in it, that all South Africa’s children must benefit from the resources of the land.”

Should concerned groups arise, either from within or from outside the claimant communities, the government has committed itself to dealing with such groups. They need to be referred to government by the claimant communities and Mondi to deal with their concerns. This applies equally to counter claimants.

MONDI'S SUCCESSFUL LAND CLAIM SETTLEMENT MODEL Mondi follows a validated, proven model for engaging and settling with land claimant communities, and this model has even been adopted by other forestry companies. It involves the transfer of land ownership to the claimants, with Mondi retaining the ownership of the trees while leasing the land for a period of two rotations. At the end of the first 10 years of the lease, the landowners can decide to take over the forestry operations by starting to plant compartments where Mondi has harvested. The initial period of the lease sees Mondi assisting the community to set up forestry contracting businesses, providing bursaries, and capacitating the community. Mondi pays the rental up front each year, and the community decides on the use of that income.

Prior to the latest Mkhuzane and Nodunga settlements, Mondi had successfully resolved 18 other claims in respect

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of commercial forestry land previously owned by the company, covering in excess of 33,000ha of land – all efficaciously transferred through the land restitution programme for communities to benefit from. It is noteworthy that production has continued on all the farms that have been transferred.

To date, Mondi has paid R26.2-million in rentals directly to claimant communities. Mondi has successfully assisted four claimant communities to set up functional businesses, which have been contracted by Mondi to work in forestry.

These businesses have shown to progress from silviculture work, harvesting, and transport, depending on their pace in gaining skills and experience. The businesses have earned a total turnover of R39-million from Mondi since they were established. Through these contracting businesses, about 250 permanent jobs have been created, with about 100 ancillary temporary jobs having been created.

Mondi engages a dedicated land team as well as a small business development organization, Mondi Zimele, to assist land claimants in developing long-term, sustainable solutions and forestry enterprises post settlement. Mondi Zimele has already advanced loans to the value of R5million for the acquisition of equipment for the four businesses. In addition, about R396,000 worth of equipment has been donated by Mondi.

Forty Mondi bursaries have been allocated to kids from the claimant communities, representing about R2.5-million in education spend. Eleven of these students have graduated, whilst the rest are progressing well at different tertiary institutions.

Many CSI projects and support initiatives to the value of about R2-million have been funded in support of claimant communities.

Mondi’s approach to engaging and settling with land claimant communities results in a win-win situation: The communities derive an income from their land, and Mondi retains a reliable source of wood supply.

Zululand community

empowered through forestry “Everybody is doing well. The employees have bought into the idea that we are running a business and that they need to perform in order for it to succeed. Even the productivity levels are so high. It’s amazing.”

T

hese are the words of Moses Ntombela, chairperson

The R1,1 million low interest loan that Makhwetha Trading received

of the kwaZiqongwana Community Trust, which runs a

from Mondi Zimele to purchase a pick up truck, labour carrier and

forestry business on 4 920 hectares of land in Babanango,

tractor at the commencement of the contract, has been fully repaid.

Zululand. The Trust, which represents members of the

Moses said that the Mondi team is still providing them with support,

kwaZiqongwana community, took ownership of the farm in 2010 as

but said that Makhwetha Trading’s own team is gaining confidence and

part of government’s land reform programme. The farm was part of a

playing an increasingly active role in the planning and management of

Mondi-owned forestry estate, and was one of the first land restitution

forestry operations.

settlements achieved in the forestry sector.

After ownership of the land was transferred, Mondi signed an

“Our staff are highly motivated and most importantly, we are meeting our targets,” said Moses.

agreement with the Trust where they will lease the land for the purposes

Moses jokingly refers to the relationship between Mondi, Mondi

of managing the forestry operation for a period of 10 years with the

Zimele and kwaZiqongwana as a ‘tripartite alliance’ and says that the

option to extend for a further 10 years, and paying an annual rental and

three organisations are working well together.

a stumpage fee to the Trust, based on the annual timber harvest.

The lease agreement also requires Mondi to provide a package of empowerment and support services that will enable the community to participate in the forestry business and to build capacity to drive their own development.

“We all share the same goal: to make sure that the farm continues to be productive and competitive and that this company succeeds. It’s very important for us to have a good working relationship.”

He said that the Trust’s aim is for Mkhwetha Trading to develop the expertise and capacity to handle all of the forestry operations on the farm.

With assistance from Mondi Zimele, Mondi’s enterprise development arm, the kwaZiqongwana Community Trust established Mkhwetha Trading to run the community’s forestry business. Mkhwetha Trading secured a contract with Mondi to provide the full range of silviculture services on the estate.

Starting out with little or no forestry experience, Mkhwetha Trading has gone from strength to strength with ongoing mentorship from Mondi’s forestry team, and business support from Mondi Zimele.

The company employs 34 people – all of whom come from local communities.

“We all share the same goal: to make sure that the farm continues to be productive and competitive and that this company succeeds.

”

Moses Ntombela, Chairperson of the kwaZiqongwana Community Trust

KILN DRYING

Venting timber drying kilns -- industry insight Kiln drying specialists, Timbersoft, have many years' experience helping kiln operators and managers optimize their drying. Here, co-owner and system integrator Henco Viljoen shares with Timber iQ the 'how and why' of a surprising observation: That the use of kiln vents is one of the least understood aspects in timber drying.

Proportionate vent open at ± 40%. 10.6 m/s equates to 26.6% volume loss through the stack in this kiln.

T

o understand how this statement could possibly be true, considering that venting is a simple operation, one has to go back to the basics:

• What is venting?

Venting is the process through which excess moisture is removed from the kiln and exchanged for ‘colder and drier’ air from outside the kiln.

• What is the purpose of venting?

Venting serves to bring the wet-bulb temperature in line with the set point for that stage in the drying cycle.

• Are there different methods of venting?

Initially, vents were operated on a ‘full open’ or ‘full closed’ system, which is the ideal drying environment.

Over time, however, the concept of ‘proportional vent opening’ came into practice and has very nearly become the norm.

• What are some of the problems experienced?

The problem with proportional venting is the high volume of air escaping from the kiln. To illustrate, Timbersoft measurements have shown that a 40% open vent, venting at 10.6 m/s, equates to 26.6 % of the air volume moving through the stacks. Even higher

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volumes of measurement are possible, dependent on the percentage the vent is open as well as the size of the vents. Thus, there is a constant need to heat large volumes of cooler incoming air. This places an unnecessarily heavy demand load on the heat energy supply, can slow the rate of heat transfer to the wood, and result in longer drying cycles as well as poor quality drying. Where drying schedules are set to follow a pre-set ‘step-wise’ wet-bulb depression, the negative effect of proportional venting is increased.

CONCLUSION With decades of in-field experience, and in evaluating the problems associated with proportional venting within the Southern African timber drying environment, Timbersoft has made the decision to return to open/closed venting.

Timbersoft maintains that this system of vent control can be financially effective for their clients, as proven with simple yet effective kiln improvements as well as appropriate, proprietary software and hardware management systems.

For more information, contact Henco Viljoen at Timbersoft via email to hencov@lantic.net, call him on (072) 331 8857, or visit www.tskilns.co.za.

Our experience spans 58+ years in Sawmilling and Drying, and 17 Years IT and Automation

WE DO: • • • • • • • •

Custom Kiln Design and Building Upgrading of existing Kilns and Controls, using PLC, SCADA and WiFi Technology Setting up and fine tuning of drying schedules via on-site visits and remote monitoring Fine tuning of drying schedules on any Drying Control System (Not just our own) Custom automation systems Technical sawmilling assistance Heat Treatment Systems to comply with ISPM 15 regulations Low energy boiler-less drying systems

Stationed in Nelspruit – Mpumalanga, and Port Elizabeth – Eastern Cape Contact: Johan Viljoen 082 8755171 Henco Viljoen 072 3318857 E-mail: hencov@lantic.net

"The Timbersoft kiln upgrade was the most positive upgrade that we could do. Timber quality improved and we had a huge drop in our electricity bill."

André Lombaard - Riversdal Sawmill

www.tskilns.co.za

SAWMILLING

Photograph by: Shaikh Shahriar

In perspective:

Sawmilling in South Africa Article by: Roy Southey, Executive Director of Sawmilling SA

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

A RIGHTFUL INDUSTRY

Sawmilling in South Africa dates back to 1652 when settlers in early Cape Town started sawing indigenous timbers using pit saws. The timber was needed for building, construction and ship repair. But it was only in 1802 that the beginnings of a proper sawmilling industry were sparked. That year marked the establishment of the first commercial sawmill in the southern Cape to serve the needs of a burgeoning Cape Colony and developing South Africa.

Subsequently, in 1937, the State officially commissioned the first two softwood sawmills. (That assignment afforded a clear recognition of the ‘trade’ and enabled it to fully develop into the sawmilling industry as we know it today.)

To begin with, the majority of the formal sawmills that were established, and who kiln dried and graded lumber, were State owned and operated. Then, in the 1970s, the State announced its curtailment in sawmilling. The majority of its milling assets were sold to private companies who took the industry into the private sector and to where it is today.

A GROWING NEED As time went by, the ongoing reliance on indigenous forests brought to light a considerable problem: The demand for timber was becoming greater than the supply from those forests. The government at the time realized that meaningful steps had to be taken to better serve the country’s growing needs for timber, and in 1910 it allowed for the planting of exotic species of trees – mainly pine – to commence. As these plantings reached maturity, it became evident how important sawmills were going to become in ensuring that the timber harvests could be converted into usable building lumber.

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SAWMILLING TODAY Today, almost all the sawmilling in South Africa is in private hands. The majority of sawmilling takes place in Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, although the Western Cape and Limpopo also feature some mills, and smaller specialized mills operate across the other provinces. Like many industries, the sawmilling sector has undergone some tough times since 2008, but thankfully has survived and come out stronger for the experience.

SAWMILLING

The intake by the sawmilling industry today is approximately 4m3 million (cubic metres) of logs annually. Production yields approximately 2m3 million of sawn board or lumber. From this, about 70% takes the shape of structural lumber for the building and construction industries, with the remaining 30% utilized in the industrial segment for use in the furniture, joinery and packaging industries.

As we all know, solid wood and wooden products make up a significant part of everyday life outside of the structural element in our homes. One has only to think of doors and windows (joinery), furniture, flooring, panelling, pallets and boxes (packaging), scaffolding and other uses to realize how important it is in our everyday lives. And all these products start out in a forest and pass through a sawmill on their way to our roofs and dining room tables.

Photograph by: Tracy

LOOKING AHEAD SA FORESTRY AND SAWMILLING FACTS AND FIGURES There are approximately 1.2 million hectares of forest in SA, made up of: • 51% Pine • 42% Eucalyptus • 6% Wattle • 1% Other Intake of roundwood into processing plants: • 73% Pulp • 20% Sawmills • 4% Mining timber • 3% Other uses (such as poles, etc.)

There are approximately 70 formal sawmills and 150 informal mills in SA. • Pulp, Paper and Board Mills – 17 • Mining Timber Mills – 14 • Pole Treating Plants – 29 • Veneer Mills – 4 • Match Factory – 1

STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AND SANS 1783 Few domestic dwellings in South Africa are not under a roof constructed out of South African-grown and produced pine lumber, illustrating what an important segment this is for both industry and the consumer. Structural lumber in South Africa is subject to grading in accordance with SANS 1783, and this grading is carried out at the sawmill prior to dispatch. No home owner should ever accept nonspecified timber in the construction of his or her home unless the timber is used in a non-structural application.

This will ensure that the correct structural integrity, which is required for the safety and longevity of the building, is adhered to.

The industry welcomes and embraces new innovations. For example, the recent BILIGOM® launch, a unique patented process in South Africa whereby still young Eucalyptus trees can be used as a resource to produce very fine and high-grade structural lumber for use in the building industry.

But the sawmilling industry also remains aware of, and is poised to tackle, challenges that present themselves. Currently, the recovery or conversion rate from a log to lumber here in South Africa is in the region of 50%. When compared to other countries in Europe, the USA and Scandinavia, we fall well short.

The challenge for our sawmillers is to get this rate up – closer to 60%. Not only would this make it more profitable for the sawmiller, but it would ensure that the timber, a green, sustainable, and environmentally friendly resource, is stretched further. The good news is that there are many millers in South Africa who are already making great strides in this direction.

Another challenge is to convince more and more home buyers and builders to choose timber frame construction, as is the prevalence in so many other parts of the world. Not only is it alive and comfortable, but it is also a wise environmental choice.

For more information, contact Roy Southey with Sawmilling SA via email at sawmillingsa@icloud.com, or visit www.timber.co.za.

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FORESTRY EDUCATION

Aerial view of the picturesque George Campus of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU).

NMMU George hosts successful forestry indaba with DAFF A cross section of South Africans involved in forests and forestry, together with forestry students from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) and other universities, gathered at the NMMU George campus recently for a successful forestry indaba themed 'Forestry and People: Investing in a Sustainable Future.'

T

his gathering of academics, students, private sector and industry, government as well as communities living in forests and forestry areas, hosted as a partnership between NMMU and the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), formed part of South Africa’s preparations for the XIV World Forestry Congress.

In addressing delegates, Deputy Minister of DAFF, General Bheki Cele, emphasized that a mental shift was required to ensure that forestry is acknowledged for its career potential, and for its potential to contribute to poverty alleviation and economic growth in South Africa. He posed a challenge to universities and their masters- and doctoral students to find solutions to these issues.

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Featured here with Deputy Minister Cele (right) at the closing of the forestry indaba is NMMU George Campus Principal, Prof Quinton Johnson, NMMU doctoral student in Forestry, Ms Tatenda Mapeto, and Prof Jos Louw of the NMMU Science Faculty (School of Natural Resource Management). Both were presenters at the XIV World Forestry Congress.

FORESTRY EDUCATION

“NMMU graduates in wood technology are high in demand, as the 100% employment rate since the programme’s inception in 1992 illustrates,” says lecturer Richard Muller, featured here with students during a practical session at the drying kiln at the NMMU George Campus.

NMMU FORESTRY PROGRAMME EQUIPS STUDENTS TO SUSTAINABLY MANAGE COMMERCIAL FORESTRY ESTATES Wood, as a renewable resource and the most common carbon neutral building material, is set to become increasingly important and popular in the future, and NMMU is geared to deliver the skills and expertise required in this sphere.

The Diploma in Forestry is awarded after three years of full-time study. The programme consists of two years of theory and one year of experiential training. Students can expect to gain a solid grounding in all aspects of sustainable forest management, such as silviculture, forest management, forest engineering, cost and accounting, economics and environmental management.

This solid foundation set, along with invaluable technical experience, expanded work perspective and ingrained work ethics gained from exposure to experienced industry mentors and role models during their experiential year, enables NMMU forestry graduates to work in any field related to the global forestry industry.

WOOD TECHNOLOGY DIPLOMA The Diploma in Wood Technology offered by NMMU is a three-year, full-time programme that includes a full year of

experiential training, consisting of three months’ structured experiential training on campus followed by nine months’ experiential training in the timber processing industry.

The modules cover the entire spectrum relating to the working industrial environment. New and relevant information is continuously added as the industry grows, ensuring cutting-edge and industry-relevant outcomes.

Class time is interspersed with visits to primary and secondary wood processing plants to expose students to working environments and new technologies.

During their training in wood technology, students gain a solid grounding in five important fields, amongst others.

These are: Timber preservation, timber processing, industrial production, timber seasoning and timber structures.

NMMU graduates in wood technology seem to have their work ‘cut out for them,’ as their skills are in high demand amongst industry stakeholders. The main employers are the softwood and hardwood sawmill companies, mining timber mills, fibre and particle board mills, plywood mills, timber preservation plants, roof truss manufacturers, secondary timber product manufacturers, the furniture industry, and various machine manufacturers. Their work relates to production, management, training, marketing and research.

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FORESTRY EDUCATION

HIGHER CERTIFICATE: VELDFIRE MANAGEMENT A specialized programme on veldfire management (one year full-time or two years part-time with core and elective modules) has also been added to the academic portfolio of the School of Natural Resource Management at the George campus. The Higher Certificate: Veldfire Management (HCVM) is designed by-industry-for-theindustry and focuses on the processes of protection, prevention and suppression. It has been designed to prepare fire managers throughout sub-Saharan Africa to effectively manage veldfires. Students are equipped with knowledge and managerial skills in the science of veldfire management. This programme adds a very marketable qualification to the CV of students who wish to pursue a career in natural resource management.

Veldfire managers are playing an increasingly important role in South Africa, as veldfires cause millions of rands of damage to assets, the environment, and the social well-being of people. This HCVM educates and teaches students to manage resources, vegetation and human activities in the natural environment in such a way that nature, human life and assets are protected from the effect of fires. Students also gain an understanding of engineering concepts and of legislation relevant to wildfire management, and they master the effective use of technology in their quest to become veldfire managers.

NMMU George Campus students in natural resource management listen and watch attentively as lecturer Tiaan Pool explains key principles and concepts relating to fire management with the aid of a model.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS - VELDFIRE MANAGEMENT, FORESTRY, WOOD TECHNOLOGY For both the diploma programmes and higher certificate qualification covered here, prospective students need to meet the relevant minimum statutory NSC requirements for entry, in addition to specific language and mathematics or mathematical literacy and any other requirements set by NMMU. Qualifying requirements for the Higher Certificate: Veldfire Management include an APS score of 28, while the APS applicable for admission to diploma studies in wood technology or forestry is 32. Physical sciences at Grade 12 level is also a requirement in order to pursue diploma studies in wood technology.

The entrance requirements for admission to studies towards a BTech degree in either forestry or wood technology is a relevant National Diploma or equivalent qualification. Candidates will only be considered if their average pass mark for the exit level modules in the diploma(s) is at least 60%. Both academic achievement and relevant experience will be taken into consideration when admitting students.

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MTECH - FORESTRY OR WOOD TECHNOLOGY Further studies are possible in the form of a research-based thesis. The entrance qualification is a suitable degree at the BTech level. Opportunities are also available for doctoral studies in forestry.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: NMMU George Campus (t) 044 801 5111 (e) george-info@nmmu.ac.za (w) www.nmmu.ac.za/georgecampus

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Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University is a university for tomorrow – we nurture innovation, foster creativity, embrace technology and develop people to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

NMMU George Campus aims at becoming a world-class knowledge catalyst for the green economy and a more sustainable future, and plan to realise this through cutting edge research and engagement, quality teaching and learning; as well as competitive innovation and entrepreneurship.

With faculties such as Business & Economic Sciences; Education; Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology (School of ICT) and Science (School of Natural Resource Management) represented here, the campus is ideally positioned to develop students’ insights, skills and practical know-how, which can help them make a real difference in the agriculture, forestry, conservation, business, accounting, tourism and IT fields.

The George Campus is a firm favourite as it is well-known for its natural setting; as well as its close collaboration with the respective industries.

Diplomas        

Agricultural Management Forestry Game Ranch Management Management Marketing Nature Conservation Tourism Management Wood Technology

Plus further options for degree studies after completing a Diploma programme - viable number of students permitting.

In the Faculty of Science opportunities are available for postgraduate studies at both masters and doctoral level.

BCom Degrees  Accounting for Chartered Accountants  General Accounting & Related Subjects  General: Business Management  General: Economics

Postgraduate Certificate  Education - PGCE (FET) (Accounting; Agricultural Management Practices; Agricultural Science; Business Studies; Economics; Mathematics; Mathematical Literacy) * Minimum number of successful admissions required

Practical excursions and assignments in the beautiful surroundings are prominent features of the programme offerings that ensure the best possible exposure to the various industries and their practices.

Higher Certificates  Business Studies  Information Technology  Veldfire Management

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For an application form or more information: NMMU George Campus • Private Bag X6531, George, 6530 • Tel: 044 801 5111 • Fax: 044 801 5031 • E-mail: george-info@nmmu.ac.za

TIMBER PROFILE

White Oak signage - Arlington National Cemetery, 2014-11-04. Photograph by Tim Evanson.

Wood works

Red and White Oak In this instalment of our series, the popular American White and Red Oak stand tall and impress on us again just how well wood works.

Article by: Stephanie Dyer, Timber Information Services

BORN IN THE USA Both the White and Red Oak groups consist of a number of species with approximately eight species in each group used commercially. The most familiar species representing the two groups are Quercus alba (American White Oak) and Q. rubra (American Red Oak) and are the focus of this profile. As their trade names imply, the species are native to (and widespread throughout) North America, mainly the eastern USA and southeastern Canada.

GENTLE GIANTS In their natural habitat, both White and Red Oak trees growing in forests are straight and tall, with White Oak reaching a height of 25m–30m and Red Oak 28m–43m.

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However, trees growing in open areas become short and massive, with stout trunks and branches growing at right angles to the stem. White Oak trees may live for 200 to 300 years, with some older specimens known, whereas Red Oak trees may live up to an incredible 500 years.

Planted in South Africa in arboretums, parks and gardens, neither of these species flourished to the extent of other oak species and neither produced commercially useful wood. Quercus alba was one of the favourite trees planted in Cape Peninsula gardens in the beginning of the previous century. Quercus rubra was widely planted in South Africa, primarily for landscaping purposes. The two largest surviving trees of the latter species are on the grounds of Clifton Preparatory School at Nottingham Road, KwaZuluNatal. When measured in 1984, they were already reaching an impressive 32m and 30.5m in height and 121cm and 150cm in diameter, respectively.

TIMBER PROFILE

FASCINATING FACTS All White and Red Oak timber used in South Africa is imported from the USA. The wood produced by both these groups is classified as ring-porous, meaning that clear growth rings are formed by the growing tree, resulting from changes in summer and winter climates. The growth rings are visible in the end grain of material and, together with wide rays, are responsible for the coarse texture of the wood.

Large White Oak (Quercus alba), Lackawanna County, along the Pinchot Trail in Pinchot State Forest. Photograph by Nicholas A. Tonelli.

By federal regulation, bourbon whiskey must be aged in charred American White Oak barrels.

White Oak is a very important timberproducing species of North America, yielding a strong, tough, heavy and durable timber. The heartwood is light brown and the sapwood is almost white.

It has a straight grain and a coarse texture. Heartwood vessels contain tyloses (bubble-like structures that block the vessels). This makes the wood water- and rot-resistant. It is also the characteristic that makes the wood sought-after by coopers for wine and whiskey barrels, as the wood resists leaking. By federal regulation, bourbon whiskey must be aged in charred American White Oak barrels. Apart from barrels, the wood is used for furniture, cabinetry, parquet and strip flooring, pews and pulpits, panelling, decorative veneer, construction, shipbuilding, agricultural implements and coffins.

Tannic acid in the wood causes unsightly discoloration in contact with iron, steel and lead under damp conditions. Nonferrous fasteners are recommended.

Red Oak is also a very important oak species for timber production in North America. It has pale reddish-brown heartwood and almost white sapwood.

It is heavy, hard, strong, straight-grained and coarse textured. It is reported that Red Oak grain is so open that smoke can be blown through it from end grain to end grain on a flat-sawn board. It is therefore subject to moisture infiltration and unsuitable for outdoor use. The wood is non-durable and requires treatment against fungal and insect attack. It is used for flooring, furniture, cabinetry, decorative veneer, plywood, interior trimming, mining and sleepers.

A sunny afternoon in June finds interpretors at Colonial Williamsburg depicting traditional basketmakers at work making White Oak woodsplint baskets.

Photograph by BasketMakers. // OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

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TIMBER PROFILE THE PROPERTIES OF THE TIMBERS ARE SUMMARISED BELOW FOR THE WOOD ENTHUSIAST: RED OAK: HARD FACTS

WHITE OAK: HARD FACTS Botanical/ Quercus alba Scientific name: (Family: Fagaceae)

Quercus rubra (Family: Fagaceae)

Trade name:

White Oak

Red Oak

Other names:

American White Oak Northern White Oak Southern White Oak True White Oak Chestnut Oak Overcup Oak Swamp Chestnut Oak Forked-leaf White Oak Stave Oak Ridge White Oak

American Red Oak Northern Red Oak Spanish Oak Swamp Red Oak Cherrybark Oak Shumard Red Oak Eastern Red Oak Grey Oak Mountain Red Oak Chene Rouge

Origin:

Eastern half of North America, Southeast Canada.

The range extends from southern Quebec, southern Ontario, Minnesota and Nebraska, south to Florida and Texas.

Eastern North America, Eastern Canada.

The species has an expansive range extending from southern Quebec to central Alabama and from extreme eastern Nebraska to the Atlantic Ocean.

Conservation status:

Not threatened.

Classified as “Secure” by NatureServe.

Not threatened.

Classified as “Secure” by NatureServe.

Bole characteristics:

Height: 20m-25m Stem diameter: 1.0m-1.2m

Height: 25m-35m Stem diameter: 1.0m-2.0m

Colour:

Heartwood: light brown Sapwood: paler than heartwood, almost white.

Heartwood: pale reddish-brown Sapwood: white to light brown.

Grain pattern:

The grain is usually straight and the texture is coarse and uneven. Quarter-sawn White Oak reveals a large number of rays.

Straight-grained with a coarse and uneven texture.

Rays visible in the tangential plane are generally shorter, narrower and darker in colour than those of White Oak. As a result, quarter-sawn Red Oak is far less showy than White Oak.

Density: (at 12%

770 (660-800)kg/m3

770 (700-790)kg/m3

Strength/ Bending properties:

The wood has medium bending and crushing strength properties and is low in stiffness. It has very good steam bending properties.

The wood has medium bending strength and stiffness, but high crushing strength. It is very good for steam bending.

Seasoning:

Material seasons slowly and has a tendency to check and split. Care needs to be taken in air- and kilndrying. Collapse, honeycombing and deep checks may occur in thicker dimension boards cut from the centres of logs.

Kiln drying schedule 1 is recommended (see below).

Dry wood displays moderate movement in use.

The wood dries relatively slowly and is liable to split, check and honeycomb. Care needs to be taken in airand kiln-drying. The wood dries faster than White Oak as the vessels are relatively free of tyloses. Coating the ends of boards is recommended to slow down moisture loss.

Kiln drying schedule 1 is recommended (see below).

Dry wood displays moderate movement in use.

Durability and preservative treatment:

White Oak heartwood is renowned for its durability and is suitable for outdoor use without preservative treatment. It is resistant to preservative treatment.

Red Oak heartwood is non-durable and requires treatment against fungi and insect attack. It is moderately resistant to preservation.

Working and finishing properties:

The wood works fairly easily and finishes smoothly with only slight blunting of tools. Pre-boring is advisable in nailing. It peels moderately easily for decorative veneer. It has good glueing properties and stains and polishes well. The high tannin content of the wood may be irritating to the skin.

The wood is hard but machines reasonably well. For consistency of a project, care should be taken to segregate quarter-sawn and flat-sawn material. Preboring is advisable in nailing. It peels moderately easily for decorative veneer. The wood glues well and has very good bending properties. It stains and polishes well.

The high tannin content of the wood may be irritating to the skin.

moisture content):

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TIMBER PROFILE

Leaves, grass-17-225 White Oak, quercus alba Photograph:

White Oak. Photograph by Ryan Somma.

artvintage1800s.etsy.com

Giant Red Oak (Quercus rubra) along the Twin Sisters Trail, Potter County, within the Hammersley Wild Area of Susquehannock State Forest.

Photograph by Nicholas A. Tonelli.

Perfect square sawn Red Oak.

Leaves, grass-12 Red Oak, quercus rubra, 2. Photograph: artvintage1800s.etsy.com

TIMBER DRYING SCHEDULE FOR WHITE OAK (Quercus alba) AND RED OAK (Q. rubra) Supplied by H-P Stöhr, Timber Drying Institute (timberdrying@mweb.co.za) Dry Bulb temperatures (°C) and Relative Humidity (%) at the following Timber Moisture Contents Drying schedule no.

1

Green

40%

30%

18% to final

DB

RH%

DB

RH%

DB

RH%

DB

RH%

35

77

40

65

45

53

60

32

DB = Dry bulb temperature, RH = Relative Humidity Please note: Drying schedules only serve as a guide to the kiln operator, with the response of the timber to the drying condition being the criterion.

REFERENCES AND SOURCES: Flynn, J H and Holder, C D (ed.) 2001. A guide to useful woods of the world. Forest Products Society, Madison, WI Lincoln, W A. 1986. World Woods in Colour. Stobart Davies Ltd. UK. Poynton, R J. 2009. Tree planting in Southern Africa. Vol. 3, Other genera. Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Republic of South Africa

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Prospect Database. 1997-2004. Oxford Forestry Institute, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Oxford Van Vuuren N.J.J., Banks C.H. and Stöhr H-P. 1978.

Shrinkage and density of timbers used in the Republic of South Africa. Bulletin 57. Department of Forestry, Pretoria.

NatureServe http://www.natureserve.org The Wood Database http://www.wood-database.com American Hardwood Export Council http://ahec.org

TIMBER PRESERVATION THATCH ROOFING

Thatch: Problems with original faulty construction The following case study shows complications where re-thatching was done onto original faulty construction.

Case study provided by TASA (the Thatchers Association of SA), with input by Dawid Pretorius from Con-Thatch.

Photographs courtesy of Con-Thatch.

THE PROBLEMS This roof was designed at an incorrect angle, namely 35°, where the optimum angle for thatch is 45°. In all likelihood,

the goal was to create livable space inside the roof – which would explain the choice of thatch, normally an ideal roof type for achieving this goal. The size of the roof is 43m2 and the length of the fibreglass ridging is 4,5m.

±900mm

Roof built at 35 degrees.

The clear span of ridge beams in the apex of the roof is 4m where it should not exceed 3m.

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The rafter spacing is between 900mm and 950mm, where the maximum should not exceed 800mm.

THATCH ROOFING

Had there still been only one layer of thatch in place, the situation might still have been in order, but a second layer of thatch had been installed at some point. (Possibly at the time the original layer was nearing the end of its lifespan, usually 12 – 15 years.) The additional stress of the excess weight (± 1,700 kg) became too much for the existing poles. And that is why the one rafter as well as the ridge started cracking.

THE CAUSES The homeowner tried to claim from the insurance company, but the claim was denied. The obvious question is: Who is to blame? In truth, the problem here is more complex than it appears at first glance, and it is impossible to put the blame squarely in one corner. The problem could have started with the architect’s original design, with the original builder, with the developer who may have wanted to build as cost effectively as possible, or with the thatching contractor who built a roof at an angle below 45°. Furthermore, the thatching contractor who added the second layer was also at fault, but could have been instructed or influenced by the homeowner to just add the second layer if the owner did not want to go through the inconvenience and cost of having the original layer removed.

THE SOLUTION In an ideal world, it would have been possible to increase the height of the roof to allow for a 45° angle. Unfortunately that was not possible in this case, since all the gable walls would have had to be raised as well, making it too costly an exercise. A next-best option would be to build the roof at the same angle but ensure that the construction complies with the standard as laid down by the TASA standards and specifications.

In reality, the only true solution is to remove the existing two layers of thatch, as well as the pole construction, and reconstruct the entire roof. The flashing against the gable would also need to be resealed or replaced should it prove to be necessary.

To prevent faulty construction and resulting thatch problems, TASA strongly recommends that only a reputable, experienced thatch contractor be used, to ensure that industry standards are applied and adhered to.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Con-Thatch (TASA member) Dawid Pretorius Email: info@con-thatch.co.za Website: www.con-thatch.co.za TASA Elzabie Meintjes Email: admin@sa-thatchers.co.za Website: www.sa-thatchers.co.za

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THATCH ROOFING

Thatch: Leaks caused by incorrect maintenance The case study of this 212m2 house, including the overhang, is another example of why only a reputable thatch contractor should be appointed to install and maintain your valued thatch roof.

Case study provided by TASA (the Thatchers Association of SA), with input by Dawid Pretorius from Con-Thatch.

Photographs courtesy of Con-Thatch.

THE PROBLEMS Big hail stones can cause thatch to break, leaving indents.

In this case, following a severe hail storm, the homeowner reported thatch damage to his insurance company. The insurance company appointed a thatch contractor (not named in this article) to brush and comb the roof. However, after the brush and comb process was complete, the homeowner again contacted the insurance company with complaints of widespread leaks after it had rained.

After the indents had been removed by the brushing and combing process, there should have been sufficient remaining thatch coverage over the sways. This time, the insurer appointed TASA member Con-Thatch to evaluate the situation and determine whether the thickness of the thatch remained adequate. Unfortunately the professional assessment by Con-Thatch showed that the roof was well below the accepted minimum average thickness of 150mm.

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THATCH ROOFING

With a newly thatched roof, the horizontal sways (i.e. 3,15mm wire or cape reed in bundles of at least 10mm) are actually securing the thatching twine, and is covered with thatching grass at least 75mm thick, so that you see a smooth finish with no horizontal lines visible.

Thatch compaction is the tension of the twine being applied on the thatch between the sway on top and the batten below. Compaction is determined by the binding tension of the (in this case) sisal twine. As there were no horizontal wires (sways) visible on the surface of the roof, Con-Thatch tested the compaction of the thatch from the inside by pulling the twine.

It was an unpleasant surprise for Con-Thatch to find that, in five different sections of the house, the twine was broken and pieces could be pulled out. It was not possible to determine with certainty whether the twine had been cut or broken during the brushing and combing process, or if this was natural deterioration. Regardless of the cause, the broken twine meant that all the compaction was gone, and the thatch was literally just laying loose on the roof, resulting in parts of the thatch not being secure at all. In all probability, this was the main cause of the leaks.

Although one can easily determine the compaction of the thatch by pulling the twine, there is also a tool available for a more accurate measurement. Note: The compaction should be a minimum of 8kg. If the roof is loosely thatched and one pulls the twine on the inside, a noticeable indent in the thatch will appear on the outside.

THE SOLUTION Not knowing where the sways are, it is not recommended to try and ‘fix’ this situation. Firstly, it is extremely difficult to identify only certain problem spots and then remove and re-thatch only those areas.

Moreover, because the thatching process starts from the bottom upwards, it is simply not a good idea to only re-thatch damaged sections or patches here and there.

Instead, the entire roof should be re-thatched (referred to as overlay) correctly. The second layer must be secured through the existing thatch onto the laths on the inside. Please note that the existing pole construction was adequate to carry an additional layer of thatch.

On the two verandas, the existing thatch layer needs to be completely removed, because a second layer on top of the existing layer will make the overall thickness of the thatch higher than the window ledge.

CONCLUSION Thatch installation and maintenance problems can be avoided by appointing a reputable, experienced thatch contractor that will follow industry standards so that you can enjoy your thatch roof to the fullest extent. TASA is available to assist with thatch inquiries and can help find a reliable thatch contractor in your area.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Con-Thatch (TASA member) Dawid Pretorius Email: info@con-thatch.co.za Website: www.con-thatch.co.za TASA Elzabie Meintjes Email: admin@sa-thatchers.co.za Website: www.sa-thatchers.co.za

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WOOD ART

Peter Schütz. Landscape with Sheep, 1981, wood, metal, PVA paint, plastic toy sheep. Wits Art Museum.

Peter Schütz:

An Eye on the World Wits Art Museum recently exhibited pieces by artist Peter Schütz, exquisite creations that showcase the extraordinary carved work of the late sculptor who strongly favoured jelutong wood as a medium.

S

chütz created exceptionally fine carvings that explore themes of violence, myth, religion and spirituality. Madonnas, saints and religious artefacts depicting the female figure are iconic symbols that influenced his work. Schütz said of his work: “I take pleasure in the physical side of sculpture and like to honour the old methods of craftsmanship with contemporary manipulations, allowing the work to evolve beyond the original concept.”

As Senior Lecturer in the Wits Fine Art Department for close to twenty years, Schütz had a long association with Wits University. This exhibition is a focused reflection on Schütz’s time spent at the university and his deep and sustained interest in Wits Art Museum’s extraordinary

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African art collection. References from traditional African artwork – particularly beadwork and Zulu cultural practices – can be seen in many of his sculptures. Schütz’s work questions images of representation and identity across cultures, making them very relevant to contemporary South African life.

The exhibition was made possible through the support of Standard Bank, Hans Merensky Foundation, Charles and Lilian Lloys Ellis, Business and Arts South Africa, Peter and Heidi Kurth, Sasha Fabris, Jill Waterman, Neil Dundas and Goodman Gallery.

For more information, contact Wits Art Museum on info.wam@wits.ac.za or (011) 717 1365.

WOOD ART

Peter Schütz, St Sebastian, 2004, jelutong and oil colour.

Standard Bank Corporate Collection.

JELUTONG: THE LOCAL LATEX TREE At FRIM there is an avenue known as Jalan Jelutong named for the many jelutong trees that lined this main avenue. Jelutong or Dyeracostulata belongs to the family Apocynaceae. Jelutong can easily be identified by the end branching of its leaves known as the ‘terminalia’ characteristic. Jelutong yields white latex, often seen on wounded parts of the tree. In the olden days, jelutong latex was used as the base for chewing gum, mixed with poisonous gum for blowpipes and used in place of rubber. Jelutong grows at a fast rate, thus the timber is quite soft.

The trunk grows straight, producing fine boles up to 60m. During juvenile stage, the crown forms ‘monopodial’ or pagoda shaped with layered leaf branches. When mature, the crown opens up so the tree would be more exposed to sunlight. Jelutong is a Malaysian timber species and at one time generated more than USD 10 million a year. Jelutong wood is fine textured and creamy white, suitable for panelling, and in the manufacture of products such as pencils, matches, model carvings and other wooden accessories. Jelutong trees at FRIM produced fruits in early June this year.

This extract from http://www.frim.gov.my/jelutongthe-local-latex-tree/ (accessed 31 August 2015), website of the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

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INDUSTRY EVENT

Exhibition bookings for WoodEX for Africa 2016 filling up fast Demand for exhibition space at WoodEX for Africa 2016 is once again exceeding all expectations, with some of South Africa's biggest and most respected timber industry businesses already committed to showcasing their products and services at the event. More than 70 percent of exhibition space has already been pre-booked.

O

rganized by Acropolis Exhibitions, WoodEX for Africa will be held from 9 to 11 June 2016 at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, South

Africa.

Stephan Jooste, CEO of Acropolis Exhibitions, says the event is now reaping the rewards of relationships that have been built and nurtured over the past four years within the international and local timber industry. "We are very excited about WoodEX and about the loyal support from our industry friends and media partners, our repeat exhibitors, and dedicated visitors from throughout Africa.

We have listened to all the suggestions received through the years and we are incorporating ideas into next year's event.

"With the XIV World Forestry Congress held in Durban recently it is apt that WoodEX will focus on developing the forestry section of the event next year. We trust that our forestry partners and friends who attended the congress had a successful event and that they will share their forestry expertise, experience and future vision with the rest of the timber industry at next year's WoodEX," says Jooste.

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OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 //

WoodEX for Africa is currently the only expo in Africa focusing exclusively on the timber industry and is the perfect platform for woodworking professionals to connect with specialized dealers, to catch up with the latest timber trends, to secure new business contacts, and to compare deals.

At the conclusion of WoodEX for Africa 2014, the event received valuable input from both its exhibitors and visitors, with exhibitors reporting positive feedback in terms of the quality of visitors, the great networking opportunities, market exposure, and business conducted.

Visitors indicated that they were specifically impressed with the outstanding quality of the exhibitors' displays and the professional appearance of the event.

For more information about participating in WoodEX for Africa as an exhibitor or event partner, visit www.woodexforafrica.com or e-mail info@woodexforafrica.com.

BOOK NOW!

9-11 EXPLORE JUNE NEW BUSINESS

OPPORTUNITIES

2016

AT AFRICA’S ONLY TIMBER MACHINERY, TOOLING, MATERIALS & FITTINGS EXHIBITION Furniture & Kitchen production | Forestry & Sawmilling | Wood Materials, Machinery & Veneers Tools, Loggers & mobile Saws | Timber Construction and supply | Industry Surface & Treatment Technologies Many more Timber related products, machinery and services.

Gallagher Convention Centre | Midrand | South Africa info@woodexforafrica.com | +27 (0) 21 856 4334 www.woodexforafrica.com