Description

The guidance for using structural steel and other metals in Building Code clause B2 Durability is limited, and no Acceptable Solutions are offered. Perhaps there’s a need for an addendum to be incorporated.

The New Zealand Building Code sets the performance standard that all structures are required to comply with. While this is commonly taken as being buildings and houses, it includes road and rail bridges plus other types of infrastructure including masts or telecom poles and even your pool fence.

The main purpose of the Building Code is to ensure buildings are safe, healthy and durable for everyone who may use them.

Scope

This article includes:

• What makes structures durable?
  • Clause B2.2: Functional requirement
  • Clause B2.3.1: Performance
• Lack of Acceptable Solutions
• Need to add references to standards
• Developing Acceptable Solutions complex
• Ground or concrete contact problem
• Corrosion in roof cavities
  • Late 1990s house roof cavity
  • Reason for material degradation
  • Many simple design solutions
• What about an addition?