Description

This Standard sets down the structural requirements for buildings not requiring specific design, where the foundations of some or all of the walls, in any storey are constructed of masonry, and the floors, ceilings and roof are constructed of light timber frame, with the exception that the ground floor can be a concrete slab-on-ground.

Scope

This Standard sets out construction requirements for concrete masonry buildings not requiring specific engineering design within the limitations specified by section 1.1.3. It is intended as a means of compliance with the following requirements of the New Zealand Building Code (NZBC):

• Clause B1 Structure  - Masonry constructed in accordance with this Standard and NZS 4210 will meet the requirements of B1.3.1, B1.3.2, and B1.3.4 for loads from B1.3.3(a), (b), (d), (f), (h), and (j), that is for loads arising from gravity, earth pressure, earthquake, wind, and human impact. This Standard covers masonry constructed to Observation Type B as defined in NZS 4230. Appendix A gives details of concrete masonry walls that are retaining soil. Appendix B gives details of free-standing cantilevered concrete masonry walls;
• Clause B2 Durability  - Masonry constructed in accordance with this Standard will be durable for at least 50 years and will therefore meet B2.3.1(a) of the New Zealand Building Code;
• Clause E2 External Moisture  - Construction in accordance with this Standard will ensure against damage to building components or dampness in the building as a result of external moisture entering through the masonry walls or the concrete slab-on-ground. This Standard ensures compliance with E2.3.2 and E2.3.3 of the New Zealand Building Code for walls and floors only. This Standard is not a complete solution to Clause E2 as it does not contain provisions for the other elements of the building envelope such as roofing, exterior joinery, and flashings.