SKILLS MAINTENANCE REVIEW DEFINES FOUR ... - PlaceMakers

TECHNICALBRANZTimber weatherboards... continuedthan its factory-machined dimensions,it has probably taken on moisture. Itmust be allowed to dry out or shrinkagelap marks between the boards mayoccur, affecting overall aesthetics.Preparation• Remove all loose material fromthe board surface and ensure anyunfilled nail holes are filled.• Spot prime exposed, bare anddamaged areas with premiumoil-based timber primer.• Lightly sand the surface wherenecessary to an even flat finish.• If primer has been exposed tothe weather for longer than sixweeks, consult your weatherboardmanufacturer for additionalpainting advice.Photo: Jenkin Timber LimitedPhoto: Jenkin Timber LimitedHand nailing is recommended, with only one nail per board at each stud spacingOther painting pointersThere are several other critical areasfor painting:• Cut ends – all cut ends should havebeen sealed with an oil alkyd primersealer during installation.• Priming – dual coat systems (preprimedand undercoated) savepainting time and labour, as wellas offering better initial moistureprotection. If weatherboards arenot dual coated, apply one fullcoat of primer as specified by theboard manufacturer.• Final coats – two top coats ofpremium low gloss acrylic shouldbe applied at a minimum of 25 drymicrons per coat. Total film build,including primers, should exceed100 dry microns.• Colour – dark colours absorbheat from the sun and increasethe risk of board defects. Forbest performance, select coloursin a range of 45% light reflectivevalue (LRV) or greater.Maintenance needed for longer lifeA quality paint system should last inexcess of ten years. Basic maintenanceof a gentle annual wash of the exterior,especially under eaves and overhangs,will remove marine salts and othercontaminants. When maintenanceis required, use premium primer andundercoats followed by the originaltopcoat. Quality timber weatherboards,installed with care, and maintainedeffectively, should provide weathertightcladding for generations.Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt! Evidence of actual learning rather than just ‘participation’ is becominga key requirement of the LBP renewal process.4) a b c5) a b c6) a b cExposure to the elements increases therisk of what?a) Board swelling, primer breakdownand tannin bleed.b) Board splitting and water tracking.c) An embarrassing situation for everyoneconcerned.Why is hand nailing recommended forfixing weatherboards?a) It’ll toughen the apprentice up.b) Because some gun fixings may bruisethe surface of the board.c) It’s a more efficient process.What should be fitted behind theweatherboards at all internal corners?a) Corrosion-resistant flashings.b) Corrosion-resistant soakers.c) Hand-crafted dovetail joints.10NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.