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Which cement should I use: 42.5 or 32.5?
Higher-strength cement (42.5 class, for example CEM II 42.5N) is generally used for structural concrete such as foundations, slabs and columns. 32.5 class cement is commonly used for brickwork mortar and plaster. Always follow the mix on the bag or your engineer's specification.
How long must concrete cure before I load it?
Concrete keeps gaining strength for weeks. Keep it damp (covered or regularly sprayed) for at least the first 7 days, especially in hot or windy weather. It reaches most of its design strength after about 28 days - check with your engineer before heavy loading.
What is a damp-proof course and where does it go?
A damp-proof course (DPC) is a strip of plastic membrane built into the wall that stops ground moisture rising into the brickwork. It is placed in walls just above the ground and floor level - typically at least 150 mm above finished ground level - and lapped properly at joints. Without it, walls stay damp and paint and plaster fail.
Which bricks or blocks should I use?
Use face bricks or exterior-grade blocks for walls exposed to weather and plaster bricks or blocks where walls will be plastered. Cement blocks are common for boundary walls and outbuildings. Make sure the units you buy meet the relevant SANS standard and the strength your plans specify.
What do the timber treatment classes H2 to H6 mean?
Treated pine in South Africa is graded by hazard class under SANS 1288: H2 for dry indoor use (insects), H3 for outdoor use above the ground, H4 for timber in contact with the ground, H5 for fresh water, and H6 for marine use in sea water. Use at least H4 for fence posts and anything set in soil.
Why do roof trusses have to be designed?
A roof truss carries the weight of the roof covering, wind and sometimes ceilings or solar panels, so the timber sizes, joints and nail plates must be calculated for the span, pitch and roof type. HPM designs and manufactures roof trusses to your plans, so they fit your building and can be signed off with an A19.