FAQs

1. Does Ecoply and Shadowclad emit formaldehyde?

Formaldehyde occurs naturally in the environment and is emitted by processes such as combustion, decay and naturally by all timber species. Ecoply and Shadowclad meets the lowest formaldhyde emission class (E0- less than 0.5mg/litre). Actual formaldehyde emissions have been tested to be less than 0.3mg/litre.

2. How do we fix Shadowclad to Framing?

Shadowclad is fixed to framing using nails or screws. The size and type used is dependent on several factors including; if direct fixed or on cavity battens, proximity to sea spray zone, if it is a structural element and aesthetics considerations. In all cases the fasteners will be at a minimum of 150mm centres around the middle of the sheet and 300mm centres in the body of the sheet. There should also be fasteners placed  at minimum of 300mm centres to horizontal nogging placed at a maximum of 800mm centres.

The publication entitled "Shadowclad Specification and Installation" should be consulted for design and installation requirements.

3. If I paint Shadowclad with a LRV less than the recommended 40% do I void my warranty?

Shadowclad used as an exterior cladding is required to meet either a 15 or 50 year minimum structural durability level under the NZ Building Code (this can be considered the product warranty).  To achieve a minimum 50 year structural durability Shadowclad must be:

  • Coated with a 3 coat (undercoat and two top coats) acrylic latex coating system- this means using a good quality paint or film forming stain system
  • Coatings must have an LRV of 40% or greater (light colours)
  • Coatings must be regularly maintained over the life of the building as the coating manufacturers specifications

To achieve a minimum 15 year structural durability Shadowclad must be coated with a stain, film forming stain or paint system. Shadowclad cannot be left uncoated as a cladding.  Dark colours (below an LRV of 40%) will achieve a 15 year durability however increased surface recoating will be required to maintain the panels visual appearance as the additional heat and UV rays attracted to the panel will increase the level of stress on the panel and will break the surface coating down more quickly than if light coloured paint coatings are used.

4. What ground clearances are required for claddings including weatherboard and ShadowcladTM?

At ground level the cladding system shall finish a minimum of 100mm above a paved surface or 175mm above unpaved surfaces. The base of the cladding system shall overlap any concrete or timber floor structure by a minimum 50mm as required by NZS 3604:1999. Where cladding finishes against, or overlaps other materials (such as flashings or concrete slabs), it shall be offset horizontally by a minimum of 6mm to prevent capillary action.

5. What colour can I paint weatherboard?

CHH Woodproducts NZ recommends painting your weatherboards, fascia and posts with a colour which has a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of greater than or equal to 40% (refer to paint manufacturer for details on LRV). The application of dark coloured paints may result in more rapid deterioration of the product due to the extra heat absorbed. Colours less than 40% LRV will encourage problems such as resin bleed distortion and surface cracking. Painting of dressing grade weatherboards requires particular attention, where the presence of knots and other defects may result in resin bleed through unsuitable coatings.

6. Can Futurebuild LVL be used as studs too?

Yes! hyCHORD is perfect for use as high performance studs in extremely high wind-zones and tall wall applications. hySPAN and hyJOIST have also been used for varying reasons, typically for greater insulation values due to their depth.

7. How can I measure moisture content in Futurebuild LVL?

Moisture meters provide a false reading due to the glue lines in Futurebuild LVL. Dimension of product is the most accurate method of evaluating the moisture content. Anything over 2mm greater width than specification could be at risk of heightened moisture content.

8. How long can Futurebuild LVL products be left outside during construction?

Exposure to weather during normal construction periods is not a cause for concern. The manufacturing method of 3mm veneers bonded with an exterior grade glueline means that less moisture tends to be absorbed compared to ordinary solid timber. Keep dry where possible.  Store on site level, filleted and under cover prior to installation. Ensure the product is dried out before fixing linings.

9. What lengths of Futurebuild LVL can I order?

hySPAN and hyJOIST are available in lengths up to 13.2 metres in 600 mm increments. Substantial orders and those for non-standard product must be placed 6-8 weeks in advance to ensure sufficient stocks are on hand.

10. What sort of buildings can we use Futurebuild LVL for?

ALL OF THEM! Aside from the residential and commercial markets Futurebuild LVL has been used to create indoor sports stadiums, dairy sheds, farm sheds, low rise buildings and many more usually designed in other materials. Choosing timber benefits the client utilising pre-fabrication, cost efficiencies, environmentally responsible, and easy to install!