Prolam exposed trusses can be used in any form of construction where the structure relies on AS/NZS 1170: 2002 and NZ 3603 1993. The design can be from span tables or specific design by an engineer using Prolam’s structural properties. 

Prolam structural laminated timber works well in harsh environments, for example in corrosive chemical stores, fell-monger, acid plants, salt-water environments and swimming pools, as it does not rust and the glues used are service class 3 certified.

This laminated treated product must be protected from the elements until it is sealed. Prolam structural timber can be supplied with a temporary sealer if required. Timber naturally absorbs moisture from the surrounding environment that can cause the product to alter dimensionally. All exposed structural timber must be sealed with a good quality paint or stain system within 14 days of delivery to dramatically reduce the incidence of dimensional change and increases longevity. All cuts, holes and rebates must also be sealed to prevent the absorption of moisture.

Prolam structural timber products can be used in specific fire performance situations, and must be designed in conjunction with a fire engineer.

All structural timber products must be stored, handled and installed in accordance with all Prolam’s installation requirements.

Prolam structural laminated timber installed in accordance with the Prolam installation requiements, will comply with the below performance clauses of the New Zealand building code:

• Structure B1/AS1: meets the requirements of B1.3.1 B1.3.2 B1.3.3 (a, b, f, j, m, q) B1.3.4 (a, b, c, d, e); AS1170:2002 for engineering span tables, AS/NZS 1328:1998 and AS5068 for building element
• Durability B2/AS1: meets the requirements of B2.3.1(a) B2.3.2. All timber is treated in accordance with NZS3640. Prolam treats it’s own timber, and is third party audited to ensure compliance to the New Zealand treatment standard
• Protection from Fire C: APA Evaluation of Char Rate (ASTM E119), TT- 118, January 2015; meets the requirements of C6.3 C6.4. Where members are required to have a fire resistance rating the designer can use the follow standards for FRR design: TT-118 OR: NZS 3603:1993 (section 9)
• Hazardous Building Materials F2/AS1: meets the requirements of F2.3.1. Timber treatment suppliers meet NZS3640, which includes flash-off requirements

Prolam has been supporting architects and construction professionals for 20 years to design and build with strength, confidence and ease with premium engineered timber solutions.

PS1 Producer Statements and Design Process:

Step 1: VISIT specifier.prolamnz.com to start the Exposed Truss design and order process.

Step 2: GO TO Design Request page and input truss details via prompts on the online form

Step 3: UPLOAD Your building plans as requested and AGREE To the design estimate so we can get to work. If our engineer requires further information or clarification, you will be notified by email.

Step 4: Once completed, you’ll receive an email confirmation that your design is ready. PAY and DOWNLOAD your design and PS1 certification.

Step 5: PLACE A PURCHASE ORDER through your local timber merchant for your beams and plates to be manufactured to your design specifications.

The beams, plates and bolts are DELIVERED as a kit to your local merchant or frame and truss plant for cutting and assembling.