The Ministry of Education's updated guidelines on Weathertightness Design Requirements for New School Buildings outline new changes in the design philosophy of school roofs set well above NZBC Acceptable Solutions. 

In the first part of our series, we identified that fire-separating elements are often not installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and therefore non-compliant. In this part we want to show that the issue we are facing is multi-levelled and encompasses much more than the structural problem that presents on the surface.

A look at how charred timber aesthetics have been created over time. 

The industry is facing a massive hidden Passive Fire Protection problem which has surfaced with the investigation around leaky buildings. Across New Zealand standard plasterboard has been installed non-compliantly, which now leaves these buildings facing life safety compliance issues under the NZBC. In the first part of our series, we take a closer look at identifying the problem. 

Edge cover and edge clearance should be considered at the initial design stage to ensure glazing is installed as per the New Zealand Glazing Code. 

This month I look at considerations for inspecting structural glass and crack patterns.

Common problems with tanking basements that will have no drainage (hydrostatic) once the building is complete can be mitigated by implementing well-planned dewatering techniques during construction. 

Compatible sealant, fixing and hardware are important for ensuring the safety and performance of structural glass. 

Planning ahead and installing an accessible flat roof can keep options open for creating additional living spaces in years to come. 

Understanding the rules of glass selection for each application is key for achieving safe breakage and avoiding sudden collapse.