Any and all tested penetration seals, installed in accordance with the manufacturers specifications or AS 4072.1, “cannot – not be accepted as being compliant” with the NZBC.

This month I look at the provision of containment pressure to maintain the effectiveness of bentonite tanking membranes under both static and seismic conditions. 

Protecting structure from moisture before, during and after construction is a code minimum requirement of B2 durability.

Mitigating the risk of over-hydration is key to the success of a bentonite membrane — especially in wet conditions. 

Designers, project managers, installers and building consent officials exercising duty of care responsibilities would positively contribute to raising the bar on all passive fire protection installations in NZ.

How do I get my design to meet expectations of comfort?

Fashions have changed and paint technology has improved; flat/matt sheen level paints are now being confidently used throughout homes, including in bathrooms and kitchens.

Getting layering right in New Zealand buildings for summer and winter.

The perceptions of project managers, quantity surveyors and passive fire installers when it comes to planning for fire stopping.

A dwelling should be considered as an integrated set of systems rather than a set of separate components.