Building Consents provide peace of mind that your new build will be safe, healthy and durable and comply with New Zealand’s rigorous Building Code. This process can take several months so it is important to finalise your flooring selections early in a bid to utilise some of the technically advanced solutions which are available today.
Naturally beautiful timber look floors which meet the NZBC E3/AS1 requirements for wet areas are now available through Woodland Lifestyle’s collection of hybrid and laminate flooring. Choose from standard or wide planks, herringbone patterns, commercial and residential options along with convenient flooring with underlays attached.
No longer are new homes stuck with tile or sheet vinyl options for kitchens, bathrooms or laundries. Timber-look continuous flooring can be applied throughout the home with confidence knowing the open plan flow can be achieved with 100% waterproof products and compliant installation methods.
NZBC E3/AS1 states that an impervious and easily cleaned surface must extend at least 1.5m from any sanitary appliances in kitchens, toilets, laundries and bathrooms. These include dishwashers, wash tubs and washing machines. The perimeter of these rooms must also be protected from water.
All of Woodland Lifestyle’s flooring products have surfaces which are heat cured melamine, PVC or polyurethane resins which are easily cleaned and have been independently tested under international standard ISO 4760 by NZWTA. Once installed to manufacturer’s instructions these surfaces are impervious to moisture.
The technological advancements also extend to the joining systems which include the patented Uniclic system and 14Fs drop-lock technology. These locking systems are highly engineered to provide an extremely tight glueless joint which inhibits any moisture from penetrating, including protection from splashes.
Recommended compliant installation includes the use of a flexible transparent Silicon and PE Foam rods which are applied in expansion gaps, beneath transition profiles, around pipes, kickboards, wall boards and door jambs. In areas where laminate is exposed such as dishwasher cavities, a ‘C’ channel with foam rod and silicon can also be applied.
For enclosed bathrooms, laundries and toilet facilities, Woodland Lifestyle also recommends sealing the complete perimeter of the room.
So new homeowners can now enjoy the benefits of affordable, timber look flooring options knowing they are compliant with NZBC standards promising years of easy care, waterproof enjoyment. There is also a reliable service history around this method of installation in wet areas which provides peace of mind performance.
Check out the compliant ranges such as the laminates Grande Wide, Quattro Vintage, Urban, Magnitude, Style, Euro Deluxe and Oasis. For Hybrids consider Genesis, Strata, Herringbone, Premium Hush or Sentry.
For further information on manufacturer recommended installation methods to comply with NZ E3/AS1, download the ‘Wet Area Installation Document’.
Words by L M Powell