SKILLS MAINTENANCE REVIEW DEFINES FOUR ... - PlaceMakers

TECHNICALBRANZWorking with timber weatherboardsPhoto: Jenkin Timber LimitedBoards should be stored indoors on a flat, well-ventilated surface with 150 mm minimum clearance. If outside, add a secondary cover and groundsheetTimber weatherboards have an excellent performance history. By using a good product andfollowing basic handling, installation and finishing procedures, builders should ensure a quality jobTimber weatherboards are enjoyinga resurgence in the wake of thecountry’s leaky building problems.The most commonly used timberweatherboard today is finger-jointed,treated and primed New Zealand pine.Packaged for weather protectionCheck that timber weatherboards arewell packaged – they should be wellwrapped and strapped when leavingthe manufacturer’s site. Wrappingshould be a high-quality tear-resistantmaterial, to provide adequate weatherprotection. Packets of weatherboardsshould have suitable bearers andstrapping to withstand standardfreight handling. Strapping shouldnot bruise or mark the boards. Theproduct should arrive at the site inperfect condition.Get delivery ‘just in time’Cladding should be delivered tosite ‘just in time’. Boards that arriveon site too far ahead of scheduleare at increased risk of damagethrough additional handling andmoisture exposure.If mechanical equipment is notavailable to unload boards, do it byhand. They should never be tippedfrom the truck. Once the material isunloaded, it should be inspectedand major damage reported to themerchant immediately.Store indoors and off the groundTimber weatherboards are kiln-driedand the boards must be kept dry, asthe priming does not weatherproofthese products. Exposure to theelements increases the risk of boardswelling, primer breakdown and tanninbleed. Boards should be stored indoorson a flat, well-ventilated surface, outof contact with the ground or concrete.Bearers should be placed evenly underthe packet with a minimum of 150 mmclearance. A secondary cover andgroundsheet should be used if boardsare stored outdoors.8www.branz.co.nz