• MetraCeiling has been appraised for use as ceilings in timber-framed buildings subject to specific engineering design.
• Trusses are the subject of specific engineering design following the information in the Technical Literature.
• The safe working platform system comprises of separate panels supported by pre-certified scaffolding posts (props) along the edge and centre of each panel.
• Free edges of the panel are attached to existing walls to give rigidity to the platform.
• Ceiling panels are installed on the temporary props and fixed on top of the wall framing prior to the installation of roof trusses.
• Roof space ventilation should be provided when using MetraCeiling.

Metra Panel Installers are responsible for the quality of the installation of MetraCeiling panels, the building contractor is responsible for the quality of installation of the roof, and the building owner is responsible for the maintenance of MetraCeiling.

MetraCeiling Components and accessories

• MetraCeiling panels
• Ceiling straps (CP1), 50x 1.2mm thick galvanised steel
• Ceiling clips (CPC40), 60x40x50x 2mm thick galvanised steel right angle bracket
• Ceiling U-channels, 600mm x 1.2mm thick galvanised steel
• Ceiling square plates, 200x200x 2mm galvanised steel
• Connection and fixing screws, adhesive, sealer/primer paint

• The use of MetraCeiling has not been assessed for rooms exposed to sustained high humidity (greater than 85% RH) such as a sauna, or areas where the temperatures are in excess of 35 degrees for prolonged periods such as ceiling heating installations, or in excess of 50 degrees in localised areas (e.g. adjacent to a fuel burning appliance).
• Some permanent ventilation, not reliant on window openings, must be provided in wet areas, such as bathrooms and laundries. Vented windows, wall or ceiling mounted extract fans, or similar fittings are recommended. Extract fans for moisture laden air must be vented externally.

In the opinion of BRANZ, the MetraCeiling if designed, used, installed and maintained in accordance with the statements and conditions of the BRANZ Appraisal 951 (2017), will meet the following provisions of the NZBC:   

• Clause B1 Structure: Performance B1.3.1, B1.3.2, B1.3.4. The MetraCeiling meets the requirements for loads arising from self-weight, imposed gravity loads, earthquake, and wind (i.e B1.3.3 (a), (b), (f), and (h)).  
• Clause B2 Durability: Performance B2.3.1 (a) not less than 50 years. The MetraCeiling will meet this requirement.  
• Clause F2 Hazardous Building Materials: Performance F2.3.1. MetraCeiling will meet this requirement.

• The satisfactory performance of both Metra Panel wall and ceiling panels in New Zealand over a period of 20 years has been recognised by BRANZ.
• MetraCeiling panels have over 25 years proven history when combined with the full Metra Panel construction system, providing reassurance that the system has stood the test of time.
• The MetraCeiling panels have been utilised in the full Metrapanel build for over 9,000 building projects throughout New Zealand. 

MetraCeilings in comparison to alternatives

Safety nets
A complex system that requires the correct sag and fall height to be calculated correctly makes the product very difficult to install. A timely installation process with individual nets needed for separate rooms and regular inspections are necessary. Safety nets are hired and reused, and are therefore an extra cost to the building structure itself. Delays often occur due to safety nets being installed prior to the roof trusses and then removed on installation of the roof cladding.

Fall Breakers
Daily inspections are required to ensure drain holes are not blocked which results in a catchment of water becoming heavy and potentially distorting the frame. The product cannot be used as a work surface for resting tools on, let alone walking across. Fall Breakers should be used within six months of receiving and need to be cut off and disposed of afterwards, as they cannot be incorporated into the building structure.