Written and provided by FTMA Strategic Partner Australian Panels
The recent updates to the Livable Housing Design Standard by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) introduced new requirements for certain builds.
Understanding Livable Housing Design
Livable Housing Design is about creating homes that accommodate the evolving needs of their occupants over time. These homes are built to be:
- Easy to enter
- Simple to navigate
- Adaptable to changing needs
- Responsive to the diverse requirements of all residents, including people with disabilities, older Australians, those with temporary injuries, and families with young children.
One key requirement is the mandatory installation of a reinforced, robust backing board with a minimum of 12 mm thickness behind plasterboard in areas around the toilet, shower and bath to support the safe installation of grabrails at a later date.
Frame and truss suppliers are offering STRUCTApanel 12mm as it’s emerging as a superior alternative to plywood that not only meets but exceeds the necessary standards. This innovative panel offers a combination of strength, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness that makes it the ideal choice for builders.
Meeting and Exceeding Code Requirements
One of the critical requirements set forth by the Livable Housing Design Standard is a fixing capacity of 1100 Newtons (N). This specification ensures that any backing board used is strong enough to securely hold handrails and other safety features without the risk of detachment or failure. STRUCTApanel 12mm surpasses this requirement with an impressive fixing capacity of 1800N. This makes it an ideal choice for builders looking to comply with the standards while ensuring maximum safety and reliability.
The Advantages of STRUCTApanel 12mm Over Plywood
While plywood has traditionally been the go-to material, STRUCTApanel 12mm offers several key advantages that make it a more suitable choice for this application:
- Superior Fixing Capacity: With a fixing capacity of 1800N, STRUCTApanel 12mm provides a much stronger anchor for handrails and other fixtures compared to plywood. This extra strength ensures that installations remain secure over time, even with regular use.
- Bracing Certification: In addition to its superior fixing capacity, STRUCTApanel 12mm is also bracing certified. This certification adds an extra layer of assurance that the material will perform well under stress, providing structural support in addition to its function as a backing board.
- Cost-Effectiveness: STRUCTApanel 12mm is an economical choice for builders. STRUCTApanel is generally more affordable than plywood, making it a cost-effective option for many applications.
- Made in Australia from sustainable certified plantation forestry: STRUCTApanel 12mm is proudly Australian-made using timber sourced from certified sustainable plantation forestry. This commitment to sustainability ensures that the production of STRUCTApanel has a minimal environmental impact, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly building materials.
- H2 treated: In addition to its structural and environmental benefits, STRUCTApanel 12mm is H2 treated for termite resistance, making it an excellent choice for Australian conditions.
Compliance and Beyond: The Future of Building with STRUCTApanel 12mm
As the building industry continues to evolve, materials like STRUCTApanel 12mm are becoming increasingly important in ensuring compliance with updated codes and standards. Its superior performance, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness make it a compelling alternative to plywood. Builders looking to meet the new Livable Housing Design Standard requirements should consider STRUCTApanel 12mm not just as a compliant option but as a superior solution that provides peace of mind through enhanced safety and durability.
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