Mick Stephens
Now is the time of year when Queenslanders are encouraged to check the structural integrity of decks and balconies before a summer of outdoor entertaining, Timber Queensland will announce updates to their recommended practices for building residential timber decks at a Timber Floors and Decks: Reducing Risk seminar in Brisbane on 17 September. Source: Timberbiz
Timber Queensland CEO Mick Stephens said decks and balconies require regular and effective maintenance and annual inspections to help ensure their long-term safety.
“If installed properly and well-maintained, timber floors and decks can provide decades of enjoyment in our great Australian outdoors and inside our homes with the natural appeal of timber.
“Savvy building practitioners should ensure they are up to date with correct building standards and practices when they build and inspect timber floors and decks to protect themselves against legal disputes,” Mr Stephens said.
“Decks are part of our Queensland lifestyle so it’s imperative designers, builders and certifiers understand new National Construction Code provisions regarding designing and building attached decking.
“Updates to Timber Queensland’s Technical Data Sheet 4 Residential Timber Decks and Technical Data Sheet 13 Residential Timber Decks Close to or on the Ground will be presented at the seminar and copies made available to all attendees.”
Timber Queensland is regularly called to inspect issues with timber decks and floors related to poor building practice.
“Our timber engineering expert Colin MacKenzie will explain the simple steps building practitioners can take to prevent frequently encountered deck issues and he will be joined by ATFA’s Technical Manager David Hayward who will teach how to identify timber flooring problems and offer solutions to achieve client satisfaction” Mr Stephens said.
“We will also have a lawyer experienced in construction law to address concerns and answer questions regarding liability and how to avoid legal disputes.”
