Proper bracing of wall frames
The wall frame is to be braced using tensioned galvanized steel straps with a minimum thickness of 0.8 mm and a net cross-sectional area of 15.2 mm2. The metal braces are to be fixed on timber studs using 30 mm x 2.8 mm galvanized flathe ad nails and to the bottom and top plates using the same type of galvanized flathe add nails. The tensioned galvanized steel has a bracing capacity of 1.5kN/m2. The required bracing is 9 kN. The running meters of bracing shall be calculated by dividing the required bracing force by the galvanized steel’s bracing capacity
9 kN/1.5 kN/m
= 6 m
Do not provide norminal wall bearing as the braced walls will fully accommodate the required 6m
Figure 1
The lintels, 1/190 x 35F17 and 1/120 x 45F17 are not adequate for use in in the load bearing wall. For a load width of 7500 mm and a truss spacing of 1200 mm, they require lintel spans of 1700 mm and 1000mm respectively which are way less than the lintel spacing required in this case.
Our timber frame wall is load bearing as it carries the roof loads yet it has not been braced at all.
The new design of the wall frame with the right bracing and lintels is as shown in figure 1.
The first lintel, 1/290 x 45F17 is adequate since it provides for a maximum lintel span of 2900 mm. Our wall frame lintel span is 2770 mm which is less than maximum.
For the second lintel, provide 1/190 x 45F17, its maximum span is 1900 mm for a load width of 7500 mm.
Provide 1/170 x 45 F17 for the last lintel. From table 18 for lintels, it maximum span is 1600 mm for a load width of 7500 mm.
This frame complies to NCC requirements since it the bracing used are inclined within the required range of 300-600 and the bracing spacing is limited to 1800-2700 mm. The maximum distance between any two braced walls for N1/N2 wind classification area is 9 m.
By taking measurements, confirm that the window opening is 1/2” larger than the exact window dimensions in height and width.
Fix a 6” asphalted building paper all round the window opening edges. Ensure that the window opening is square then tightly fix the window in the opening against the nailing fin.
Shims are then placed under the sills, mullions and at the location of installation screws at the top and bottom of the side jamp. At least 3 shims should be placed under each each sill. These shims are then adjusted to ensure the window is straight and level using a plumb bob and a spirit level.
Ensure the difference between the two diagonals are less than 1/4” for a square window. Sashes may be used to visually check the square.
Finally, the window is securely fastened in place using framing nails and nailing fins. To prevent damage to the ‘J’ channel window type, pneumatic nail gun may be used to fasten the window.
Recommended lintel materials and spans
The function of the brick veneer is to provide an aesthetic surface finish to a wooden or steel wall. It is applied on a wall to provide decoration. The codes and standards governing the use of veneer bricks and other brick wall constructions include AS/NZS 44551.1, AS 4773.1 and AS/NZS 4455.3
This type of wall sheeting is a performance solution and not deemed to satisfy solution since it is not a mandatory requirement for buildings but only included for purposes of aesthetics and decoration.
Rendered compressed cement sheeting comprises of ceramic tile finish on a timber wall. It is a durable option as compared to plywood and particle boards due to its resistance to water penetration. It is also strong, resilient and non-combustible as described in the Building codes of Australia.
Veneered timber sheeting on the other hand is a laminated sheet of wood with a natural finish achieved by careful coating which is resistant to fading, moisture and scratches. It is attractive and appealing. Bracing using rendered compressed cement sheeting is stronger and more resilient than that done using veneered timber sheeting. However, the use of veneered timber sheeting for bracing is more appealing than the compressed cement sheeting.
Replacement of brick veneer with compressed cement sheeting improves water resistance of the timber cladding hence increased longevity.
The wall system shown above is a double brick wall or a cavity wall of a building. This type of wall is used as a remedy for heat insulation in cold regions. The space between the two wall layers bounds air which insulates the building interior against heat loss or heat gain.
To accommodate changes in the design, the inner timber cladding in the previous design would be replaced by a brick layer to create the double wall.
The solution provided by this type of wall is a performance solution as it is not a mandatory requirement to provide the cavity wall, rather, it is provided to suit the cold weather.
This type of wall is specified under NCC part 3.3.5, 3.2, 3.3 clause A 2.2(3) and A2.4(3). Australian standards, AS/NZS 44551.1, AS 4773.1 and AS/NZS 4455.3 also stipulates requirements for such cavity walls.
Putting up a building on Mount Hotham would require a review of the original design to incorporate the additional loads as a result of the high wind speeds experienced. Records indicate that this location is characterised with wind speeds as high as 13 kts.
The snow loads are also high as altitude increases. Therefore, more stresses in terms of dead loads will be experienced in this area.
Changes in the foundation design is anticipated due to increased lateral and vertical loads on the structure. High wind speed location requires robust foundation design to support the imposed loading. The geology of the area must also be taken into consideration in the design. A proper consultation with the site surveyors, structural engineers and geotechnical engineers is vital for proper planing and design prior to erection of the proposed structure.
Proper installation of windows
NCC volume 2, part 2.1 for structure would be invoked for the structural design. Part 3.10 for ancillary provisions and additional construction requirements would also be considered for earthquake areas in relation to geotecnical design. To achieve adequate structural design of the building, Australian standards such as AS4100 and AS3600 must be used.
The national construction code series and the building code of Australia are mandated to provide certification for design and construction activities.
The most durable and effective method of wall cladding is the use of metallic wall cladding. This is due to the high strength and corrosion resistance properties of metals. The most appropriate in this case is the Zincalume steel from Blue scope company. This type of sheeting boosts users’ confidence due to its reliability in terms of resilience sustainability and durability. They are made to be tough and scratch resistant through application of aluminium-zinc alloy coating, which further increases the product lifespan
Moreover, this type of metal cladding has been tested in extreme weather conditions such as marine environments and the result has shown that the zincalume steel is adequate. The identification brand mark is clearly printed on the product for customers’ verification purposes. It therefore meets Building Code of Australia requirements and AS1397.
Having been manufactured from strong light gage steel with a minimum yield strength ranging from 300 MPa to 550 MPa, the product offers structural strength to carry carry all lateral and vertical loads applied to it. This cladding sheeting is recommended for use on walls due to its high resistance to bending and compressional forces. Hence, adequate for strong winds and large roof load structures.
Installation process of cladding begins by first cutting the metal sheets to the required sizes, remove any form of distortion and burrs. Window, door and other outlet openings are then cut according to the required sizes followed by reinforcement using trims in strict adherence to manufacturer’s specifications.
The metal sheets are then laid with the side lap joints facing the opposite of the prevailing wind direction. Holes whose diameters are larger than the fastener diameter by 1.5mm are drilled on the metal sheets. The metal sheets are then cleaned of dust particles, swarf and any other foreign mater before finally fastening the sheets together and fixing them in the required position. On completion of installation, carry out checks to ensure fasteners are properly tightened and make any necessary adjustments for water tightness and prevent possibilities of buckling and distortion.
The steel wall system should be strong enough to carry its own weight between its supports. In addition, it should be stable to withstand lateral pressures and wind loads. It should be flexible and restrained at the same time so that it can permit differential movements and maintain the wall position. To allow for expansion and contraction under extreme temperatures, the arrangement should include both flexible and rigid supports.
Proper coating and painting of the wall cladding should be done to prevent corrosion and other adverse effects of rain water.
Comparing different wall sheeting materials
The metal used must be of good quality hence increased longevity.Sound thermal performance must be adhered to when steel cladding is conducted for a heated building, it must comply with the Building code of Australia (BCA).
Subject: Certification of the timber framed wall system
Dear Braeden,
Certification of the timber framed wall system
I am writing to request approval and certification of our proposed timber framed wall system.
A timber frame wall system is chosen for use to replace the existing block wall system due to its economic viability and ease of installation. The timber framed wall has high flexural strength and is able to resist compressional and lateral stresses imposed on it. It is therefore adequate for use in structural applications. Before installation of timber panels, sheathing boards and breather membrane is attached. Flexible wall ties are then used to fix the board to the frame. The stud cavities are then filled with glass mineral wool to insulate it. Its inner lining is then fitted with gyproc plasterboard which is covered by another layer of material to help control vapour.
There after, the timber panels are cut to the required dimensions and put in place to form the the wall.
In most instances the wall panels come with additional framing units from the manufacturer to facilitate installation of openings such as doors and windows. The timber frames are then installed as per design requirements.
Some of the qualities of the structural timber that are checked prior to installation include strength and robustness, thermal insulation and performance and acoustics. High strength timber are heavy, dense and dark in appearance; thermal insulated timber are properly laminated and sound insulated timber are thick.
NCC part 3.4.3 for timber framing determines the performance compliance requirement for the timber framing. Australian standards AS 1684.2-2010 AMDT 1 for residential timber-framed constructions part 2 and AS 1684.2-2010 AMDT 2 for residential timber-framed construction part 2 also forms part of the determination for compliance.
Other industry professionals involved in the certification process include, building code of Australia, Australian Institute of Building Surveyors and Association of Accredited Certifiers.
Please feel free to contact me for any clarification related to the timber-framed wall system.
Kind regards,
Abdullah khan.
The use of glass cladding has gained tremendous achievement in the building industry due to its thermal insulation characteristic, weather resistance and aesthetic value. Glass panels allow light penetration into the building and has in the recent past become quite efficient as a cladding alternative due to the ease of erection and leaning. It is also attractive and appealing. Therefore, it complements the architectural design for use in decoration of the exterior parts buildings. Its small thickness and light-weight makes it more desirable as it takes little space during partition of the interior rooms.
The concrete tilt panels would therefore be replaced by the glass cladding. According to NCC Specification C1.1, Fire-resisting construction, glass is regarded as non-combustible material and hence suitable for construction of fire resistant buildings.
Other alternative construction methods for stability and support to buildings include timber, fibre-cement, plywood sheets and hardwood boards.
Building in high wind-speed locations
To install glass cladding, ensure that the opening is in perfect horizontal and vertical line. To align the wall and column surfaces at right angle, plaster is necessary. Using plumb bob, check all the corners to ensure verticality.
Transoms and mullions must also be fixed at right angle. Based on the glass panel sizes, aluminium sections are installed along the straight walls. The panels are then measured and cut according to the site conditions. During installation, aluminium composite panels are fixed on all the sides of openings to avoid entrance of rain water into the premises. This process is called coping. All corners are then sealed using silica sealant.
The use of glass cladding on walls offer designers with unique and a dazzling array of colours of varied shapes and dimensions. It is also attractive to developers due to its versatile and economic viability for the construction industry. Functional value of the interior design aesthetics are also experienced with glass cladding due to the spectacular and vibrant colouring together with the smooth flat surface that cannot be achieved by any other cladding method.
Before commencement of any construction activity in Australia, it is mandatory for one to obtain a construction certificate. On reception of the certificate, a principal certifying authority is appointed to help oversee the construction process, inspect and ensure compliance with the building standards. The builder will therefore present the glass panels intended for use for approval and certification. NCC also stipulates the minimum requirements for different building wall cladding materials. The same requirements are checked and approved the certification department before issuance of a certificate.
Requirements for passive fire control for the glass cladding wall include the glass itself, this material is generally incombustible hence acts as a passive fire control. Active fire control elements in this case include installation of fire extinguishers to for physical fire fighting in case of an incident.
The provided building plan offers ample space and conditions for installation of active and passive fire protection requirements. Different types of fire extinguishers can be installed in each of the rooms without any obstruction.
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