WE'LL BRING THE INNOVATION - You bring the - PlaceMakers
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
ISSUE 75
GET YOUR APRIL/ MAY 2019 SKILLS MAINTENANCE POINT!
You bring the
frame & truss
project WE'LL BRING
THE INNOVATION
PlaceMakers Frame & Truss:
Now using STUD-LOK for
top plate to stud fixings
FOREWORD VIEW FROM THE GM OPERATIONS
POWER OF ‘NON-PRODUCTIVE’ TIME
As the busy summer season draws to a close, it’s worth
taking a moment to reflect on what went well and what
could have gone better. However, these reflections aren’t
worth much unless we take the time to note them down
and consider ways to improve going forward
In busy times, it seems impossible to make time for this kind of ‘non-
productive’ activity. That’s why, aside from contributing to your LBP
maintenance, Under Construction provides an opportunity to step away
from your tools, clients and employees, and consider different approaches.
This month, we share a number of suggestions – from other builders,
apprentices and construction-related businesses. Check out Builders’
Business on page 3 to find out what incentives other employers offer to
keep staff on board. Discover how you can leverage your tax dollars
through New Zealand Trade and Enterprise – which offers funding for
business mentoring, HR support, marketing and more – on page 7.
Our business coach reveals the power of good presentation and first
impressions. While he acknowledges that it may not be fair, that doesn’t
With the Mainzeal fallout mean it isn’t true, and suggests giving yourself, your vehicle and your sales
in focus, Builtin reminds materials a onceover.
company directors of
This month also features two very topical items. Following a recent crash in
their duties regarding which a tradie’s tools went flying through his vehicle windscreen, Site Safe
trading while insolvent provides a sobering reminder of why it’s worthwhile to secure your tools.
and with regards to
With the Mainzeal fallout in focus, Builtin reminds company directors of
health and safety their duties regarding trading while insolvent and with regards to health
and safety.
Want to better understand what your apprentice might be going through?
Read our first apprentice feedback column on page 4 to hear from
apprentices around the country.
REDLINE We hope you find this issue useful and worth your time away from the tools!
PLYWOOD
Gary Woodhouse
REDLINE PLYWOOD LINING UNTREATED 2400×1200×9MM TRADE PRICE General Manager Operations
2990
Redline is a cost-effective, FSC® certified, attractive interior lining solution – no stopping or sanding required!
Its pre-sanded faces take stain, polyurethane, oil and paint well. A durable product, it is strong enough to hang
$ /SHEET
+GST
shelving, tools and bicycles. These qualities make Redline ideal for industrial buildings and garages.
PlaceMakers has everything you need to fit out a garage in style. Check out our complementary garage offers
in the Trade Deals section of this Under Construction.
2420025 Please note there may be a slight colour variation between the product shown here and
the actual product. The product is able to be viewed in your local PlaceMakers branch.
Trade price and bonus offers available exclusively to trade account customers. All prices exclude GST. Products featured may not be stocked in all stores but can be ordered in at the advertised price. Offers valid from Monday 1ST April – Friday 31ST May 2019.
1
CONTENTS BUILDERS BUSINESS
NEWS
PERKS OF THE TRADE?
Builders’ Business is a column by builders for builders. Its objective is to provide a forum,
4 PAC NEWS Apprentice focus! Read what challenges
particularly for small business operators, in which to share knowledge, experience, tips and ideas
apprentices have overcome; Apprentice of the
Month; Best ‘office view’ competition
13 INDUSTRY NEWS PlaceMakers supports up-and-coming
landscapers; Government proposes single national
Q What incentives do you offer employees to keep them on board
: ?
qualification body; Consents at highest level since
1975; Alarming asbestos cases continue; Why Firm: RNP Homes Ltd Firm: Deane Fluit Builder Firm: G E Construction Ltd
18 PlaceMakers frame and truss is first-rate
Principal: Richard Preston Principal: Deane Fluit Principal: Grant England
Location: Christchurch Location: Wanaka Location: Christchurch
FEATURES Staff: 26 Staff: 9 Staff: 12
At RNP, we provide free health A lot of people want short-term Money is the obvious incentive, but
3 BUILDERS’ BUSINESS Business practices of your fellow builders insurance for employees after rewards in the form of money, so that is because that’s the same with everyone,
they have worked one year with us. always included as a form of incentive. I think the other things carry more weight
6 MBIE – CODEWORDS Tips & tricks to stay up to speed with industry
Health is happiness, so I believe it’s However, I strongly believe a quality in differentiating yourself from the rest of
regulation; LBP licensing suspensions deciphered;
important to ensure they and their work environment is worth more than the market.
Introducing the new LBP registrar
families receive a helping hand dollars and cents.
10 BRANZ Treating timber cuts the right way; from us on that front. We like to provide as much opportunity
19 Warming up to bigger framing I like to offer my team the flexibility as we can for our workers to upskill
We like to collaborate with our to enjoy their life at work as much as and expand their resume, as that will
20 SUCCESSFUL BUILDER Use the power of presentation to win new clients workers where we can, so that we’re they do outside of work, so I let them ultimately serve them and us in the
more than just an employer dishing know that if they want to go skiing on long-term.
22 SITE SAFE Keep your tools locked down in transit! out money – we’re a business Monday, they can go for it. On top
looking out for its employers. It’s of that, I like to do similar activities It’s also important to create a strong team
24 BUILTIN Are you a director of your own limited company? important to us that we’re seen as as a team, whether it be a ski trip or morale. There’s 12 of us at work, so it’s
Do you know your responsibilities regarding the a company that’s invested in the some fishing. a close team. We enjoy having regular
Companies Act? people on our team. One of my social events, even if it’s just unwinding
workers has been with me for over on a Friday with a beer in hand — just
ten years, and he gets five weeks of having things to do together and being
holidays. If they want to go able to share a reward after work is
OTHER STUFF
20 skiing on Monday, important to us.
Of course, it’s naïve to ignore the
fact that the dollar is always in the
they can go for it Coffee cards are something we do as
28 SPONSORSHIP Super Rugby season kicks off new Punt for
conversation. People won’t just come well, just to keep the team enjoying
Prizes competition!
in because they want to work, so something little every day. All the small
we do our best on that end as well. Enjoying our interests and getting things add up to something meaningful for
28 SKILLS MAINTENANCE Record your LBP skills maintenance – you’ve
However, we like to focus on giving involved in other things we like doing every individual, and we do our best to
earned it!
rewards beyond just the paycheck. together makes the workplace mean include everyone in open communication,
more to everyone. so they feel close to the operations and
involved in our business.
24 NOW HAVE YOUR SAY...
WIN!
ISSUE 75 > APRIL/MAY 2019 WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST CHALLENGING ABOUT TAKING ON A NEW APPRENTICE?
>PUBLISHER > DCL Corporate Publishing > ENQUIRIES > editor@pmunderconstruction.co.nz; (04) 384 5689 ANSWER THIS QUESTION TO ENTER OUR QUARTERLY PRIZE DRAW
DCL Corporate Publishing reserves the right to accept or reject all editorial or advertising material. No part of Under Construction magazine may be published without the express permission of the E mail your answer with your full name, contact phone number, company name, number of full-time staff and the
publisher. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed or imagery in Under Construction magazine are not necessarily those of PlaceMakers or the publisher. No responsibility is accepted for the suggestions of city or town in which you’re based to editor@pmundersconstruction.co.nz. All responses must be submitted
the contributors or conclusions that may be drawn from them. Although the publisher has made every effort to ensure accuracy, the reader remains responsible for the correct use and selection of any tools, by 25 April 2019. The answers to this question will be published in Under Construction June/July 2019.
materials and systems followed, as well as the following of any laws or codes or standards that may apply.
2 3
PAC NEWS
PLACEMAKERS APPRENTICE CREW
FEBRUARY APPRENTICE OF MONTH
FROM THE GROUND UP
Diligent plan prep helps apprentice spot and remedy small, but important, specification variance
S
Our new apprentice column is all about sharing experiences. Its an opportunity for PAC members to share
their news, ideas and experiences as an apprentice, while providing insight for builders who employ them. econd-year apprentice “This is a crucial stage of the build As a result, the
This month’s question is: Regan Morris didn’t miss process and it needs to be as close site was ready
a beat when he returned from to millimetre perfect as possible,” to go when the
six months off due to injury – he was says Regan. blocklayers
immediately tasked with ensuring arrived and
a newly set-out site was ready for the With this in mind, he read the details they were able
blocklayers. for the footings, steel and slab to complete the Apprentice of the month
Q What
dimensions closely and found that some job smoothly. Regan Morris (right)
did/do you find was/is the biggest Plans in hand, he needed to check small changes to the specified steel
:
challenge you face as an apprentice ? and change profiles and string lines, tolerance and string lines needed to The judges were impressed at Regan’s
straighten/tie steel cages/starters be made. He consulted with the LBP diligence in reviewing the plans, and
and ensure all footings were up to who was overseeing his work, the LBP his knowledge, which helped him spot
specifications. agreed and the changes were made the variance.
accordingly.
Name: Joel
3rd Name: Alexander
3rd Name: Sam
2nd
YEAR YEAR YEAR
VIEW FROM THE OFFICE
Location: Hamilton Location: Queenstown Location: Dunedin
At the start, I found it a bit When I first started, the biggest learning There are plenty of challenging
intimidating in general, because curve was the terminology – there are so moments as an apprentice, PAC members get behind
you’re new and you’re coming many different types of screws, roofs, rafters, especially a new one, but what the lens to compete for
into an environment where there’s treatments – basically, most of what you’re I found the most nerve-wrecking ‘best site view’
heaps of qualified people who are using, you’ve never come across before. For was being put on the spot –
I
looking to you to perform. I found example, if my boss had asked me in the first basically being given a job and n the summer months, some builders’
that there was a fine balance few months to go pick up some treated timber left to your own devices to do work backdrops would put any
between trying to prove yourself, from PlaceMakers, I wouldn’t have had a clue. it. It’s completely different to office art to shame. To celebrate
but not going beyond your skill watching someone do a job, or this, PAC arranged a competition
level. I’d say it took almost a year to get properly reading about how to do it, but it’s for members to decide who was
up to speed, but the guys at work were super really the only way to learn. I’ve enjoying the best view from their
I’m really grateful to the builders helpful – they would draw me diagrams of been in this situation a number of workplace.
who have trained me over the past the various products and their differences. It times and it’s intense, but I really
few years, and I quickly realised also takes a while to get up to speed with the enjoy the challenge. Over a week in February, PAC members
how important it is to respect their numerous brands of products available, and sent in their best shots. The PAC team
time. When someone puts in the to learn how they’re different even if they're The important thing that I’ve picked their three favourites, and then
time and effort to train you, you meant to do the same thing. learned in this instance is that, if the voting went public! It was a close
need to make sure you turn your you’re unsure of something, you call, but Ben Lelo’s shot in Swanson,
ears on. I’ve found I learn best This also makes learning how to read plans need to ask someone more senior. Auckland saw him walk away with
when someone shows me how to quite challenging – they don’t mean It’s a bit intimidating, as everyone the top prize – a $250 PlaceMakers
do it a few times, before letting much if you don’t know the products being is busy and you don’t really want voucher. Check out the three finalists.
me get stuck in and then reviewing referred to! to bother them, but it’s important –
what I’ve done. doing an apprenticeship is about
Now that I’ve had a few years’ experience learning.
The next challenge is learning how and am getting more competent, I find the
to be efficient – people expect that most challenging thing is to speak up when Dealing with clients and
you’ll take longer at first, but to be I’m not sure about something. Everyone is other contractors can also be
a valuable part of the team you really busy, but better to ask and do something challenging, especially if you don’t
need to learn how to complete jobs correctly then go ahead and have to fix it later. have that type of experience. PA C C A S H T R A D E D I S C O U N T S
properly and quickly. After all, I'm still learning!
D o n ' t f o r g e t t h a t a l l c u r r e n t PA C m e m b e r s h a v e a c c e s s t o
cash trade discounts on safety gear and hand tools plus
other product ranges (some exclusions apply) at all
P l a c e M a k e r s b r a n c h e s . V i s i t t h e PA C h u b f o r m o r e d e t a i l s -
4 pac.placemakers.co.nz 5
REGULATION
MBIE
STAYING UP TO SPEED
local trades. They can offer business of information about quantity surveying. Using resources to make the process
mentoring, financial acumen, human These are a common tool quantity quicker and easier is an added bonus.
resources support and training and surveyors use, alongside online The information in these resources
marketing. Support is offered by way services, to obtain information about has been gathered through years of
of courses around the country and labour constants. You’ll often find data analysis, and is a good basis
one-on-one consulting and training with one within easy reach of a quantity to use when completing your own
regional partners. surveyor's desk. pricing work. A very handy tool to
have in the office!
You can apply for funding for this
assistance if you go to the website
and become part of the network – it is
definitely worth checking out. Suppliers
to the NZTE have to be thoroughly
vetted to ensure they are going to
give value and help businesses, so it
is a great place to find real value and
help with funding.
You can find information on the NZTE
Regional Partnership Networks on the
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise
website.
ESTIMATING TOOLS
There are lots of online tools – some
free and others by subscription – which
provide data-based industry averages
across the regions for labour constants,
built-up rates, and cost-planning
information. Quantity surveyors use
this information for estimating purposes,
PlaceMakers regularly hosts trade events with informative speakers, who discuss legislation, business tips and industry news but it can also be useful for builders
looking for estimating guidance, as it is
a fantastic wealth of information.
Quantity surveying practices go hand-in-hand with estimating, quoting and tendering for work.
These business practices are essential to operating a construction company, and getting it right You can also find old-fashioned
paperback books that hold a wealth PlaceMakers supports builders at trade events
is more important than ever during a period of high industry activity
A
s an LBP, keeping up to date Business practices are relevant to your Another great place to meet and share
with the latest information skills maintenance. Contractors have your knowledge and listen to a range
is paramount to running a range of regulatory obligations of speakers is your local Chamber of
a successful business. We are lucky alongside LBP obligations, so Commerce. They will generally cover CODEWORDS QUIZ ISSUE 88
in New Zealand, as there are lots of knowledge in this area is relevant to more than just trade information and
opportunities and tools to learn and being able to contract with consumers also give out free information for those
grow your business, as long as you and participate in our building industry. interested in HR, business acumen, 1 Learning about contracting with 2 True or false: If you’re operating 3 Where is one good place to get
accounting, and all those other things consumers and complying with your a small business, you won’t need to started on learning business skills
know where to look! This article is the obligations can be relevant for: know anything about recruiting staff, and getting support to grow your
TRADE EVENTS SME builders need to understand to
third and final article tying quantity human resources or accounting – company?
Get along to as many trade events run their businesses profitably and a) LBP skills maintenance. just turn up and do the work!
surveying to being an LBP.
as you can. Hearing from a range efficiently. b) Running a competitive and resilient
a) A quantity surveyor.
of informative speakers, alongside business. a) False.
b) NZTE Regional Partnership
We often hear that LBPs are unsure the general camaraderie these events NZTE – REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP Networks.
c) Winning contracts and staying profitable. b) True.
where to start learning about encourage, is something you can’t NETWORKS c) You’ll just have to learn it yourself.
business practices. Here are some d) All of the above
put a dollar value on. Trade events New Zealand Trade and Enterprise
tools and tricks for small to medium are often held by different institutions, offers learning opportunities and
sized-enterprise (SME) builders from as well as merchants or other funding to SMEs across New Zealand,
a quantity surveying perspective. trade suppliers. and in many cases this includes our
6 www.building.govt.nz 7
REGULATION
MBIE
SUSPENSIONS – THEY'RE IN YOUR HANDS
are ‘non-licensed’, you are not able A suspension can impact on your A disciplinary suspension means you
to carry out Restricted Building Work ability to get jobs as consumers are ‘non-licensed’ and not able to carry
(RBW) unless you’re supervised by a LBP, check the public register regularly. out RBW unless you are supervised
and you can’t supervise RBW. You also by an LBP. If your license is suspended
can’t tell people that you are an LBP. DISCIPLINARY SUSPENSION by the board, you can’t supervise
The Building Practitioners Board RBW and you can’t tell people you are
Your suspension is required by law to be can suspend an LBP’s licence if an LBP. Your suspension will also be
shown on the public register for three an LBP commits a disciplinary shown on the public register for three
years. You cannot request to have your offence under section 317 of the years and may impact on your ability
suspension history removed. Building Act 2004. to get work.
NEW LBP REGISTRAR
Change is in the air for the Licensed Building Practitioner
scheme, starting with a new Registrar
After four and half years as the building regulatory system, continuing
Registrar Building Practitioner as the Manager of the Building
Licensing, Paul Hobbs is handing the Systems Assurance team.
tool belt over to Wayne Burroughs.
During Paul’s time as Registrar, there Wayne brings a wealth of regulatory
have been many successes and experience to the role. For the past Wayne Burroughs
improvements, including the Scheme three years, he has been the General
celebrating the 30,000th LBP,
Manager of MBIE’s Integrated
rolling out a new skills maintenance Wayne takes on the Registrar role in
Regulatory Compliance Branch. In
framework and Paul having been an interim capacity (having started
a judge for the Registered Master this role, he became familiar with 21 January 2019) until mid-May 2019,
Builders Apprentice of the Year the issues facing LBPs and the and the first thing on his radar is policy
competition several years in a row. broader building industry through and legislative change following the
If your licence is suspended – for not getting relicensed or for getting disciplined – you cannot carry out or supervise Restricted Building Work the compliance operations run in the feedback received from consultation
Paul will remain focussed on the Auckland building industry. last year.
There are three types of LBP licensing suspensions: voluntary, relicensing, or disciplinary.
Voluntary suspensions are by choice, but relicensing or disciplinary suspension happens as
a result of your actions as an LBP
CODEWORDS QUIZ ISSUE 88
A
ll suspensions appear on your licence form’. You need to continue that you wish to remain licensed.
public register page, including to maintain your skills while on
the reason for the suspension a voluntary suspension. You can renew your licence online,
4 How long can you voluntarily suspend your 5 When can you uplift your voluntary suspension
and whether it was for disciplinary or contact the LBP licensing team. licence (or class of licence) for? on your licence (or class of licence)?
or relicensing reasons. Clients might These two forms can be found on the Your licence will be suspended if:
steer away from you if you have LBP website under ‘Suspend or cancel a) Up to six months. a) When the suspension period you selected has ended.
a disciplinary or relicensing suspension your licence’. • You do not respond b) Up to two years. b) Two years after your voluntary suspension started.
history, so maintaining your current c) As long as a piece of string. c) Anytime, but you can only voluntarily suspend your
• You don’t pay your yearly licence for two years.
licence status can be very important to Voluntary suspensions are shown on
licensing fee
your reputation and future business. the public register, but are described
as ‘at the request of the practitioner’, 6 If your licence is suspended because you did not 7 How long will a suspension stay on your public
• You do not complete your skills complete relicensing, what are you able to do?
VOLUNTARY SUSPENSION to differentiate them from suspensions register profile?
maintenance (required every
You may choose to have your licence placed on your licence by the Registrar two years). a) Only carry out RBW under the supervision of an LBP. a) Until you request to have it removed.
(or a class of licence) suspended for or Building Practitioners Board. b) Supervise RBW as long as you’re not the person b) Three years.
up to two years by completing the It is important to make contact with carrying it out.
c) One year.
‘Voluntary suspension of licence form’. RELICENSING SUSPENSION the LBP team and renew your licence c) Tell people that you’re an LBP.
You can end your voluntarily suspension Every year, the Registrar will make (which can be done online), because, if
at any time by completing the contact with you about a month prior to your licence is suspended, you will be
‘Ending voluntary suspension of your licence ID card expiring to ensure considered ‘non-licensed’. When you
8 www.building.govt.nz 9
TECHNICAL
BRANZ
TREATING A CUT THE RIGHT WAY HEADLINE
There are also treatment requirements
for other types of cladding cut on site.
For example, E2/AS1 requires that:
• Where fibre-cement sheet claddings
are cut on site, cut edges are sealed
with paint including 100mm across
the back face from each edge.
• Where plywood sheet claddings are
cut after treatment, the cut edges
are brushed with a solution of 12.5%
copper naphthenate in white spirits
or mineral turpentine.
H5 TREATED TIMBER PILES The end grain soaks up more moisture than the face
Timber piles must be durable for at
least 50 years under the Building Code.
Where piles are cut on site, whether
cutting to length or notching and
rebating, the cut ends must always be
treated. The cut surface should be dry
to the touch and then have a liberal
application of timber treatment brushed
on. Manufacturers will recommend
treatment in their documentation, but
it will usually be something like zinc
naphthenate, TBTO or TBTN.
The cut ends of piles must not be placed
in the ground. Some manufacturers go
BRANZ recommends applying two coats of sealer to cut ends further and specify that cut ends should
not be closer than 150mm or 300mm
to the ground.
We're not talking plasters or bandages – this article looks at how to achieve the best
finish on cut timber Product warranties may no longer apply
if the requirements around treating cut
T
The end grain of cut timber is a vulnerable spot that must be treated carefully to avoid water penetration
he end grain of cut timber is external fascias and trims to be treated installed may need repriming – check ends are not followed.
a vulnerable spot, where water to hazard class H3.1 as a minimum, and the supplier’s installation instructions for
can be more readily absorbed protected with three coats of alkyd or the maximum time primed surfaces can Words and images supplied by ©BRANZ
and rot can start if the timber remains acrylic paint. be exposed to the weather.
wet. When you’re on site and making
cuts to painted or stained timber that These H3.1 treated timber products While sealing cut ends is especially PROVE YOUR KNOWLEDGE
will be exposed to moisture – such usually arrive on site pre-primed important for H3.1 timber Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt in the record of learning on the back page!
as weatherboards, bargeboards and on all surfaces. After they are cut weatherboards and trims, it also applies
fascias – treating the cut the right way to length, cut ends must always be to weatherboards made from H3.2
is crucial. reprimed, preferably with two coating 1) NZS 3602:2003 requires radiata 2) Why should pre-primed H3.1 treated 3) Why is it important to check the supplier’s
treated timber or cedar that are painted pine weatherboards, external fascias timber products be reprimed with installation instructions on primed
applications because of the greater
or stained, fibre-cement, compressed and trims to be treated how? two coating applications after they weatherboards?
Under the New Zealand Building Code, porosity of timber end grain. Repriming are cut to length?
claddings must be durable for at least after cutting is a requirement of NZS hardwood fibres and some other a) To hazard class H3.1 as a minimum. a) Because primers have a short life and
15 years with normal maintenance. 3602:2003 (and also Acceptable materials. Check the manufacturer’s a) Because timber end grain has greater may need re-priming.
b) With three coats of alkyd or acrylic porosity than the rest of the timber.
Homeowners will naturally expect much Solution E2/AS1). Notches and holes requirements – they typically require paint. b) Because they are all different.
longer than that. cut in the timber should also be fully cut ends to be sealed with an acrylic b) In case the first one doesn’t work.
c) Both of the above. c) Because they are not meant to be
sealed. sealer. Some proprietary products c) Because it’s a requirement of exposed to weather at all.
NZS 3602:2003 Timber and wood- (including H3.1 radiata pine products) NZS 3602:2003.
based products for use in building Because primers have a short life, require a proprietary sealant to be used
requires radiata pine weatherboards, primed weatherboards not immediately on cut ends. NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.
10
10 www.branz.co.nz 11
TECHNICAL NEWS
BRANZ INDUSTRY FEATURE
THINKING BIGGER SUPPORTING A LANDSCAPE OF TALENT
Warmer homes typically use thicker insulation, and this requires bigger wall framing. While PlaceMakers has long been a committed sponsor of the Young Landscaper of the Year Awards,
R2.8 insulation is the highest practicable insulation value that can be used with 90mm framing, recognising the best young talent entering the industry. At a local level, in a move which reflects
R4.2 insulation can be used in 140mm framing the brand’s community connections, PlaceMakers Dunedin has added its support to Otago
Polytech’s own student landscaper awards
T
here are slightly different rules • Where there is built-up framing with The 140mm framing and R4.2 insulation
P
around 140mm wall framing in up to six framing members nailed comes at a cost. One researcher looking laceMakers Dunedin has “I was able to learn a lot about the
NZS 3604:2011 Timber-framed together, for framing 140mm or more, at actual houses being built calculated sponsored Otago Polytech's job through the work experience
buildings: there must be at least two rows of additional costs of $6,200–8,700 per Landscaping Student of the Year provided in the course, and it made it
nails across the member width. house above the typical construction of award for the past two years, with easier going into the industry full-time
• Stud heights can be increased over 90mm framing/R2.8 insulation. That students and employers reaping the understanding important concepts,
90mm framing at the same centres. Apart from allowing thicker insulation, would help achieve an 8-Homestar benefits. theory, executing the correct angles,
140mm wall framing offers designers rating, however, which is considerably and much more.”
• 140mm studs can be installed at
more flexibility around the size and higher than most houses built today The award is a strong endorsement for
wider spaces. For example, with
position of plumbing and electrical (see BRANZ Study Report SR391). a student who has stood out among The 2018 winner, Scott McMillan,
loadbearing walls in extra high
services. their peers by showing promise, skills appreciates having the award on his
wind zones, a 140 x 45mm stud
and knowledge in Otago Polytech’s resume and sees it as a testament to
up to 3.0m length (height) can
Landscape Construction course. For his motivation and hard work.
be used at a maximum spacing of
employers, it’s a great way to identify
600mm – twice the stud spacing
the best young talent entering the “The course wasn’t a run in the park,
of a 90mm wide stud (see
industry. there were some challenging parts
NZS 3604:2011 Table 8.2)
which I had to overcome. Achieving
• The maximum size of a hole or For 2017 winner, Rikki Tubman, the the Student of the Year award, which
notch is 38mm compared to fundamentals from the course alongside reflected the work I put in, made it all
25mm for 90mm framing. (In each some previous experience in horticulture the better,” says Scott, who works for
case, the measurement is 27% of set the scene for securing his ideal role. Action Building and Landscaping.
2017 Landscaping Student of the Year
the timber depth. The actual
“I’ve been able to land my dream job,” Scott says the course has a good Rikki Tubman
38mm figure doesn’t appear in
NZS 3604:2011 – it is derived said Rikki, who was approached by reputation among local employers,
from that.) Paul Ashford Landscapes to work in his which helps graduates land jobs –
spare time outside of the course. His in Scott’s case, even before he
• 140 mm trimming studs can be work ethic, and award win, ensured graduated.
made with a built-up thickness full-time employment after the course’s
R2.8 insulation is the highest practicable insulation value that can be used with 90 mm framing
of 2/70mm or 6/35mm. completion. “I was approached by Action Building
and Landscaping while I was still
Words and images supplied by ©BRANZ Company owner Paul Ashford said studying, so it was great having that
that from an employers’ perspective, opportunity,” says Scott.
“seeing they’ve come out of Polytech,
PROVE YOUR KNOWLEDGE especially as Student of the Year, shows PlaceMakers Dunedin and Mosgiel
an encouraging level of commitment, JV operator Justin Macready says
Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt in the record of learning on the back page!
and we know they’re equipped with PlaceMakers is proud to be contributing
fundamental knowledge". to young landscaping excellence and
4) What is the highest practicable 5) How big does framing need 6) Apart from allowing thicker insulation, enjoys hearing of the success previous
insulation value that can be used to be to use R4.2 insulation? what does 140mm wall framing offer “Rikki’s horticulture experience has Student of the Year winners are
with 90 mm framing? designers?
a) 100mm framing served him well, and he has a level experiencing.
a) R4.2 insulation
b) 150mm framing
a) Nothing. of keenness we like having around,”
b) R2.8 insulation b) More flexibility around the size and says Paul. “It’s great to see the graduates we’ve
c) 140mm framing position of plumbing and electrical supported doing well in their career,
c) H2.3 framing services. Even if Rikki hadn’t been offered work and we’re proud to do our bit to
c) Cost savings. with Paul Ashford, he would have support the industry we are so 2018 Landscaping Student of the Year
gained valuable work experience passionate about.” Scott McMillan
through the course, as it included
NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation. a placement.
12
12 www.branz.co.nz 13
13
RIGHT
FOR RENTAL
PROPERTIES
Stud t t p plate
fixing made easy
Ask for STUD-LOK™ SL170
BE IN TO
WIN 25,000
STUD-LOK™ SL170 has
$ been specifically developed
to provide an easy option,
applied through the very top
plate or capping plate, when
EASY MONEY
fixing top plate to studs as per
the requirements in Section 8
NZS 3604:2011 and forms an
integral part of the MiTek® Truss
and Frame design layout.
www.miteknz.co.nz
PLUS 50 X $100 PREZZY CARDS TO BE WON.
®
One entry into each draw with every $500 of Pink® Batts® insulation for retrofit purchased.
We make it simple. Always.
Landlords, retrofitting insulation into your rental yourself is simple. With our
blue bags you know you’re using the right product and our video guides will
have you installing like a pro. Ask our staff for details.
Always.
Entries must be received by 31 July 2019. Visit www.pinkbatts.co.nz/easy-prize-draw for terms and conditions. Terms & Conditions apply to the use of Prezzy® card.
NEWS
INDUSTRY FEATURE
QUALIFICATION FRAMEWORK SHAKE-UP CONSENTS AT THEIR HIGHEST SINCE 1975
The Government has released a proposal that would see the country’s 16 major polytechnics fall
under the remit of a single national body – the ‘NZ Institute of Skills and Technology’ – rather
than the 11 industry training organisations (ITOs) that currently oversee vocational education
T
he proposal — currently in its Fi Kingsford, chief executive of through the cracks of a single, large
consultation period — suggests that Competenz, another prominent ITO, institution. The sector was also worried
ITOs be replaced with “industry expressed concern in response to the that advocacy work carried out by ITOs
skill bodies” led by employers, with the proposal. will be lost, causing a struggle to attract
responsibility of checking that trainees people into the sector.
are appropriately skilled. ITOs would “In a time of critical skill shortages, the
no longer manage training. last thing we want is a reform that risks “If we get this wrong, we risk losing
undermining workplace training and a cohort of employers, and by default
One of the government’s aims is to apprenticeship programmes. apprentices, which would set the
provide polytechnics with an incentive sector back years. We cannot let this
to place students into work-based “The role of ITOs is crucial and, with happen at a time when the sector faces
training and apprenticeships as soon as our direct line to thousands of significant skills shortages.
they are ready. The proposal states that employers, we understand the demand
the funding system should support more for trades better than anyone else,” “The overarching question we will be
work-integrated learning that resembles said Kingsford. asking ministers is how they can mitigate
apprenticeships. the risks identified in any sector reform,”
SECTOR REJECTS REFORMS says Quinn. “This is too important to
Education providers will be tasked AT SUMMIT get wrong.”
with the challenge of taking on the On 5 March, BCITO held a sector
responsibility for approximately summit to discuss the proposal with A recent finding by a global quantity The unseasonal increase in January was driven largely by big multi-unit projects such as apartments, particularly in Auckland
140,000 trainees and apprentices, other stakeholders. It was revealed surveyor showed that the New
having to support work-based learners. that two-thirds of attendees did not Zealand construction sector needs an
support the Government’s proposed extra 57,600 people to fuel demand
ITOS REACTION reforms. over the next few years. The study A total of 33,576 new homes were consented in the year ended January 2019, the highest
Soon after the proposal was announced, also showed that only around 13,000 number of new homes consented in a year since early 1975
BCITO chief executive Warwick Quinn Quinn said attendees “made it clear people are entering the industry
A
acknowledged the suggested changes that they value sector control of both the annually, and within a workforce that t the peak of the 1970s, in January 2019 included 1,525 -33%), and Nelson (decrease of 8 to
were “significant” and urged caution. standard setting and delivery of training. is ageing rapidly. approximately 13 new homes stand-alone houses, 341 apartments, 6; -57%). Taranaki, Southland, and
While they appreciate the greater were consented per 1,000 212 retirement villages, and 418 Marlborough also recorded decreases
“There is no doubt that the Vocational control of the standard setting under WHY THE CHANGE? New Zealanders compared with seven townhouses, flats, and units. compared to January 2019.
Education Training System (VET) has the proposals, they are concerned that The Cabinet paper detailing the per 1,000 in the year ended January
experienced issues for a long time, control of the delivery is at risk. proposal referred to unclear and 2019, Stats NZ reported. IN THE REGIONS NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDING
which need addressing. We also overlapping organisational roles Ten of the 16 regions consented more CONSENTS
believe there are some parts which “They value the relationships they have being identified as issues in the current The growth in the year ended January dwellings in January 2019 compared In the year ended January 2019,
are working very well. The key is to with their ITOs. Under the current system, scheme, and that education providers 2019 was fuelled by townhouses, flats, to January 2018, led by Auckland non-residential building consents
protect what works, while updating our field staff build strong relationships and ITOs were not sufficiently working and units, which were up 33% from the (increase of 410 to 1,128; +57%), Bay totalled $7.1bn, up 7% from the January
the areas which are failing to deliver,” with every individual employer and with each other to deliver what trainees year ended January 2018. of Plenty (increase of 107 to 230; 2019 year. The building types with the
said Quinn. apprentice. This allows us to customise and employers need. +87%), and Waikato (increase of 39 highest value were:
their learning. NO QUIET JANUARY to 232; +20%). Northland, Gisborne,
“We must be careful to not throw the It also stated that the lack of a single The number of new homes consented Manawatu-Wanganui, Wellington, • Shops, restaurants, and bars —
baby out with the bathwater, and “In construction, most people learn from vocational education funding system left rose a seasonally adjusted 17% in West Coast, Canterbury, and Tasman $1.2bn (up 43%).
ensure we protect what is working well, mentoring and support. They don’t learn providers and ITOs to compete against January 2019, driven largely by big were the other regions to consent more
• Educations buildings —
particularly for high-need sectors such from books. This focus needs to be one another rather than collaborate, multi-unit projects such as apartments, dwellings month-on-month.
$997m (down 7.3%).
as building and construction. retained in any reforms, and the sector which “undermines efforts to deliver particularly in Auckland. Because
is sceptical how this will work in the the mix of on-and off-job training most January is typically a quiet month, Six of the 16 saw a decrease in • Offices, administration, and
“We believe there is an opportunity new system.” learners need”. the increased activity in consents consented dwellings in January 2019 public transport buildings —
to reposition vocational-based contributed to the sharp rise. compared to January 2018, led by $912m (up 20%).
qualifications as high-quality career Quinn also said there was a shared Otago (decrease of 22 to 122; -15%),
pathways,” said Quinn. concern that smaller trades will fall The 2,496 new dwellings consented Hawke’s Bay (decrease of 14 to 28;
16
16 17
17NEWS
INDUSTRY FEATURE
ASBESTOS CASES CONTINUE FIRST RATE FRAME & TRUSS
Two cases of incorrect handling of asbestos have already been put in front of the Tenancy PlaceMakers Frame and Truss provides value for money and
Tribunal in 2019, indicating an alarming absence of knowledge and lack of caution operating saves builders time on assembly. PlaceMakers promises to
around the toxic substance deliver your order right first time, on time!
W
ith eight plants based around largest producer of Frame and
D
espite New Zealand being home the country, PlaceMakers is Truss in New Zealand, with
to thousands of asbestos building well placed to provide the a national network of eight
materials, recent cases suggest service required to get the job done. plants.
there remains a disconcerting lack of Read on to find out why PlaceMakers
caution from builders and homeowners builders count on Frame & Truss to • LBP Maintenance Seminars to
alike when dealing with the dangerous provide the service they need. help keep you current with
material. your elective skills maintenance
WHAT WE OFFER points’ requirements, available
The first case saw a landlord have work through PlaceMakers branches
• Frames are clearly marked and
done on a garage that stored many of or PlaceMakers Frame and Truss.
stacked in sequence (wherever
the tenants' possessions. The tenants possible, depending on load
expressed their concern and suspicion • The opportunity to earn
efficiency, site requirements and PlaceMakers PLUS Points on all
that the garage wall and ceiling panels health and safety).
contained asbestos, but they were purchases for travel or leisure
dismissed by both the landlord and the • Colour-coded truss plans matched by product rewards.
builder hired for the job. truss coding for ease of placement
• The option to incorporate the
on site.
balance of roof and loose timber
At the tribunal hearing, the builder
• All site plans are weatherproof and within your quote – the benefit of Frames are clearly marked and stacked in
claimed he had been trained for
sent with an iconic PlaceMakers one account. sequence for ease of assembly
asbestos, and that he believed the
materials “looked different” from builder’s pencil.
DELIVERY
usual materials containing asbestos.
• Wall junctions are marked on plates. • Frames are supplied plastic-covered • We can integrate engineered timber
However, the test paid for by the
tenants revealed that asbestos was for moisture protection. products, for example mid floors or
• Galvanised nails for any H3.2 CCA
present. garage lintels, where specified.
walls. • Calls are made to builders/reps
the day prior to delivery to confirm • We invest in the latest saw
The second case involved asbestos • PlaceMakers can supply and fit the
estimated arrival time. technology for accuracy and
contamination as a result of DIY, where MiTek Bowmac STUD-LOK system at
presentation.
a landlord drilled multiple holes into the plant to save you time and money • Frame and truss is delivered in full
the stippled ceilings, which the tribunal instead of fitting stud-straps on site. • Fastenings and design are from
and on time to your site.
ruled to be “common ground that they Mitek, a company with 40 years
contain asbestos”. The tribunal excused the landlords in both instances because they were unaware of the asbestos • Ease of interior and exterior lining
• A range of trucks and experienced of supply experience within
due to our consistent timber gauge.
drivers will place frames and trusses New Zealand. Galvanised
The drilled holes released asbestos We only use stress-graded,
where you want them on site, and Lumberlok, Gangnail and
fibres, contaminating the premises and Over 170 New Zealanders die each NZ-grown timber from reputable
unload them with minimal hassle or Bowmac zinc fastenings are used.
the tenants' belongings. In addition, year from diseases related to asbestos, suppliers. All trusses are supported
damage.
the landlord ordered the carpet to be and tradespeople are the most at risk. by producer, design and • Our branch network, National
removed, which had a paper backing manufacturing statements as required Estimations Unit and digital tools,
that contained asbestos as well. For safety tips on working with or near by NZS3604:11. We can provide TECHNOLOGY such as Build It, mean that location
asbestos, WorkSafe NZ has created technical support in detailing. • We provide a full detailing service isn’t a factor.
Despite the tribunal excusing the a guide so builders have the knowledge and willingly work with architects,
• Courtesy cuts (undercut) doorways
landlord because he was unaware to keep themselves and their team away specifiers and engineers to provide SAFETY
of the asbestos in both instances, it from harm. Check out the ‘working with on bottom plates.
a tailored solution for both standard • PlaceMakers Frame & Truss Service
displays an example of inadequate asbestos’ page on worksafe.govt.nz • Experienced site support and site and more complex construction Promise ensures safety at all stages of
knowledge and handling of materials for the guide and more! measures. projects. the delivery and offloading process.
containing the chemical, and the
dangers the are created as a result. • The flexibility to meet demand thanks • Our well-trained, long-serving staff • Safety is paramount in all phases.
to PlaceMakers position as the have years of expertise.
18
18 19
19TIPS
THE SUCCESSFUL BUILDER
POWER OF PRESENTATION
If you talk like an advisor, but you look 4. QUESTIONS Once the visual is underway, keep
like a tradesman, they may not believe Some inexperienced building company the interaction going with questions
you. Your appearance could be getting owners act as though over-talking about like these:
in the way. If the clothing you are their company and its services will
wearing gives the wrong impression, it convince potential clients to purchase. “Is this what you had in mind? ”
Quit losing the sales that can undo everything you say. Experienced building company owners
you should be getting for simply ask a series of carefully thought “Can you picture this plan working? ”
the wrong reasons So, how do you present? How does out questions, that lead to a clearly
a professional advisor dress? We “If we could build something along
Y
defined problem for which a solution
ou’re a great builder and you recommend tidy pants and a button can then be found. these lines, would that achieve your
know your stuff, but when it up shirt, or similar. vision?"
comes to winning jobs, you The thing is, good questions unlock
lose out – to a better looking or better 3. SALES MATERIALS imagination, and imagination is best 5. PUNCTUALITY
presented company. Yet, their finished The only way your potential client expressed visually. There is nothing that dents your
product is no better than yours (in some can come to believe that you will do potential client’s opinion of you
cases it’s not as good), and your price a quality job for them then (ie, in the more than having them stare at their
When you have asked good questions
is about right. Does this happen to you? future) is by observing the quality of the watch, waiting for you to turn up.
you can produce a visual rendition of
If so, read on! experience they have with you now – Or having them wait while you finish
some possible solutions. This is much
during your first meetings. with someone else, or (worse still)
more powerful than simply taking
So, why do they win the jobs? Do talk on the phone!
notes and verbalising the solution.
customers really get taken in by Your sales materials can say a whole
lot about what they can expect. Whereas if you do not visualise, then In western culture it’s courteous to be
appearances and presentation? your idea of the solution may be
Perhaps unfortunately, or unfairly, Poor quality materials could a couple of minutes late, but it is rude
suggest that you might be happy to quite different to what your potential to be much longer.
the answer is often yes. However, this client imagined. You may think you
tendency isn’t limited to building clients. accept a lower-quality standard of
workmanship. On the other hand, have heard them clearly, but until So, to ensure you start off on the right
It’s likely something you do as well,
excellent quality materials could you produce a visual representation, foot, make sure to show up on time for
either knowingly or subconsciously.
suggest a higher-quality standard of it's unlikely you'll really know. meetings.
For example:
workmanship. This is not necessarily
true, but the sales process can often be So, ask and sketch, ask and sketch Takeaway: Remember, how you treat
Imagine you are purchasing a truck
affected by perception. until you start finding your potential your potential customer during the sales
and choosing between two that are
client saying “yes.” This will process is important, as it forecasts
identical in every way except that
So, check out your brochures and demonstrate that you are a problem how you will treat them during the build.
one is covered in mud and the other Your sales materials can say a whole lot about what potential clients can expect. So, check out your
forms, and make sure they are assets solver and help you win the job if How you act now shows them how you
is spotlessly clean. Which would you brochures and forms, and make sure they are assets that you are proud to present
that you are proud to present. you want it. are likely to act then.
choose? Most likely you would choose
the bright and shiny one – even though
wrong impression). But it does need to 2. YOURSELF Graeme Owen is a builders’ business coach at thesuccessfulbuilder.com Since 2006, he has helped builders throughout New Zealand
both have the same performance be clean, tidy and in good repair. If you work mainly on the tools, then get off the tools, make decent money, and get more time in their lives. Grab a copy of his free book: The 15 Minute Sales Call Guaranteed
characteristics and you’ll get it dirty you probably think of yourself as To Increase Your Conversion Rate: thesuccessfulbuilder.com/book-15-min-sales-call or join Trademates and connect with builders
anyway. You see, your vehicle may be the first a builder. And you are – when you are who are scaling too: www.facebook.com/groups/TradeMates
thing your prospect sees. on the tools.
There is no doubt in marketing –
appearances can have a huge impact
on purchasing decisions.
So, take a look at it now. Does it show However, when you are in conversation PROVE YOUR KNOWLEDGE
you care? That you pay attention to with your potential client, prior to
Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt in the record of learning on the back page!
detail? Or does it indicate indifference? starting any building work, they need
The truth is, we believe more of what Are bits missing? Are there dents you to be someone else!
we see than what we hear! unrepaired? [Now, of course, if your 7) Why don’t you want to look like a 8) What might potential clients assume 9) What shouldn’t you say once you’ve
prospect is an off-roading fan, turning At this stage they do not need a builder. builder when you are having a sales if your sales materials are of poor sketched out what your client wants?
So, to help you even the odds, here are conversation with a potential client? quality?
up in a dusty, battered and mean 4X4 What they need is someone who will a) Is this what you had in mind?
five things you can do to morph into that may be just the thing! It’s often about help them ask the right questions and a) Because it’s unprofessional. a) That you’re too busy to make new ones,
“bright and shiny” builder from whom and therefore too busy to do their work. b) Can you picture this plan working?
knowing your audience but, if you’re locate the right solutions. They need b) Because at this stage you aren’t yet
your customers will happily purchase. not sure, it’s best to err on the side of an advisor. their builder, you are acting as an b) That you might be happy to accept a c) This is exactly what you want, you just
advisor so you should look like one. lower-quality standard of workmanship. don’t know it.
caution and have you vehicle neat
1. YOUR VEHICLE and tidy.] Moreover, because you are probably c) Because people don’t trust builders. c) That you don’t care about your business.
Your vehicle doesn’t need to be new discussing their largest financial asset,
to create a good impression (in some So, make cleaning and checking your they need to know you can be trusted!
areas a new vehicle may even give the vehicles a weekly habit. That you are a professional advisor. NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.
20
20 www.thesuccessfulbuilder.com 21HEALTH & SAFETY
SITE SAFE
TOOL TIPS FOR TRAVELLING
Otaki St. John ambulance officer a loose tool box, a chainsaw, and other tools and materials separated from
Trevor Hunter has dealt with several heavy items. people via a cargo barrier is another.
vehicle accidents involving unsecured Of the current range of cargo barriers
items including, tragically, two fatal that are available, the range from
ones. Another one, he says, was Australia’s Milford Industries is one
much luckier for the occupants. Site Safe also recommends of those that meets the NZS 4034
They were in a head-on crash, which that liquids are securely standard for cargo barriers.
saw a large oxy acetylene cylinder
fly out from the back of the van,
stowed in correct bottle Properly fitted barriers, as well as
shooting between them and burying containers and where protecting people from fast-moving
itself in the dashboard. possible, fuel should be in objects, may also offer extra protection
if the vehicle rolls.
Another first responder from Otago
a separate trailer
recalls a call-out where a vehicle Site Safe also recommends that liquids
had rolled. She says it wasn’t the There are several ways to minimise are securely stowed in correct bottle
actual rolling that killed a person the risk from such things happening. containers and where possible, fuel
in the car, it was a combination of Keeping them secure is one, keeping should be in a separate trailer.
Having a barrier between you and your tools is a good idea in case you have an accident 1KG 20-25KG FORCE AT 50KM
Even a 1kg water bottle will have the force of 20-25kg as it flies forward – until it hits the dashboard, the windscreen, or the back of someone’s head
In a crash, unsecured tools can take the situation from bad to worse – so make sure they are
secured or separated Site Safe is a not-for-profit, membership-based organisation that promotes, inspires and supports a culture
S
of health and safety in New Zealand construction.
ometimes the biggest threat to come flying forwards, towards the CREATE A DIVIDE
people in a head-on crash is the driver and his passenger. Site Safe says putting a barrier between
things that are behind them. people and objects makes good sense,
“If you are a tradie or own a company, particularly for tradies and construction PROVE YOUR KNOWLEDGE
A collision in Hamilton in early February this may be an opportunity to consider workers.
Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt in the record of learning on the back page!
between two vans saw Waikato Police any improvements that you can make (in
warning tradies that unsecured tools case of an emergency).” The gravitational force (g-force) on
and cargo can become painful, if not people and objects during collisions 10) Why should tradies secure their 11) What happens to people and objects 12) Which of the following is NOT a way to
deadly, missiles in an accident. The van driver later told The New that occur around the 50km per hour tools in their vehicle when driving? during collisions that occur around minimise the risk from unsecured tools in
the 50km per hour mark? case of a collision?
Zealand Herald that it wasn’t the mark is usually around 20-25 times a) To avoid having them fly forward
In a Facebook statement about the wood that broke his windscreen, more than normal. So, for a brief and cause injury or death if a) The gravitational force (g-force) on a) A barrier.
crash, the Police said wood and tools but accepted that some tools had instant, even a 1kg water bottle will a collision occurs. them is usually around 10-15 times
more than normal. b) Securing tools.
came flying out of the van as it collided gone rogue. He said four tools – have the force of 20-25kg as it flies b) Because it’s the law.
b) The gravitational force (g-force) on c) Wearing a helmet.
with another vehicle that had crossed a clamp, a glue gun, hack saw and forward – until it hits the dashboard, the c) To deter possible tool theft. them is unaffected.
the centre line. multi box – flew out the window, but windscreen, or the back of someone’s
they were the only things that were head. c) The gravitational force (g-force) on them is
usually around 20-25 times more than normal.
“Upon impact, the contents of the unsecured in the van.
Toyota Hiace (including tools) have NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.
22 www.sitesafe.org.nz 23You can also read
