New Timber Treatment Requirements - Effective 1st July 2011

The timber industry has worked together for over two years with Department of Building and Housing (DBH) navigating through a comprehensive review of timber treatments for framing and as a result Acceptable Solution B2/AS1 has been revised to provide for a system that is simpler, easier to use, and less confusing for designers, tradesman and Building Consent Authorities (BCAs). 

The changes allow a single treatment hazard class, H1.2, to be used for nearly all enclosed timber framing. Streamlining the use of treated timber is expected to reduce errors in the use of timber in this application, and to simplify choice and supply inventories. It should also make the consent and inspection process more straight forward.
 

The key changes are as follows

  • H1.2 (boron treatment) is now required for nearly all Radiata Pine enclosed timber framing.
  • H3.1 is required for cavity battens and H3.2 is required for enclosed cantilevered decks or framing exposed to the weather and above ground.
  • Use of untreated timber is no longer allowed for timber framing.
  • These changes only apply to our Radiata Pine products. The amendment does not apply to Engineered Wood Products such as LVL and Plywood.


Why treat at all?

  • Timber MUST be adequately protected against damage from fungal and insect attack so that buildings are durable and comply with the Building Code, H1.2 provides this protection.
  • Boron is one of the most safe and effective treatments for timber framing, it contains no toxic metallic compounds and is fully compatible with all commonly used building materials.
  • H1.2 Radiata Pine is easily recognisable on site by its pink colour.


What do these changes mean?
For all consents applied for after the 1 July 2011, THE NEW amendment will apply.

For further information please visit www.dbh.govt.nz, contact CHH Woodproducts customer service on 0800 746 399 or get in contact with your local CHH Woodproducts Account Manager.