The traditional approach for facility managers is to do whatever it takes to make the passive fire issue disappear. This is not always the most cost-effective approach.

Dampness due to condensation can lead to fungal growth which harms occupants, causes decay in structural timbers and accelerates corrosion of metal components and fixings. 

Common themes with comfortable high performance houses are insulation, airtightness, ventilation and heating. 

Any and all tested penetration seals, installed in accordance with the manufacturers specifications or AS 4072.1, “cannot – not be accepted as being compliant” with the NZBC.

This month I look at the provision of containment pressure to maintain the effectiveness of bentonite tanking membranes under both static and seismic conditions. 

Protecting structure from moisture before, during and after construction is a code minimum requirement of B2 durability.

Mitigating the risk of over-hydration is key to the success of a bentonite membrane — especially in wet conditions. 

The thermal performance of a house is determined by the complex interaction of a variety of major influences. With higher performance being desired, and demanded, it becomes more important that an objective measure is used for an assessment to be meaningful.

The best way to prevent roof leaks in the wetter seasons is to be proactive with roof maintenance in the months before the winter period.

Designers, project managers, installers and building consent officials exercising duty of care responsibilities would positively contribute to raising the bar on all passive fire protection installations in NZ.