- The system typically saves two thirds of the timber used in a classic timber frame construction
- It is SABS approved and complies with all National Building Regs. Agrement/NHBRC
- The system can be manufactured at any location with minimal facilities
- Adjustments to beam lengths are easily made
- The beams are economical to transport
- All beams are straight and uniform in size as they are manufactured on a jig
- Easy joining makes it possible to produce any length
- Curves can be built into the beams and curved walls are easily constructed
- Beams can be ‘pre-
stressed’ by routing a groove in the bottom chord and tensioning a cable in the groove - Both lattice and timber can be painted or varnished to achieve a pleasant effect
- Top and bottom chords can be of different sizes or different timbers
- The beams can be “boxed” to achieve a ‘solid beam’ appearance
- The beams allow for services and ventilation in walls, ceilings and under floors
- Construction can take place at locations to which road access is not provided. This reduces the damage and congestion caused by heavy trucks carrying bricks and cement
- No electricity is required on site and only minimal amounts of water and cement
- 1500 bags fit in the boot of a small car and only weigh a few kgs. This is the equivalent of 3000 bricks in a normal cavity wall
- The construction method can be taught to people with absolutely no building experience in a few days. Anyone in the building trade would pick it up immediately
- The beams are light in weight and can easily be handled by one person in all phases of construction
- The only wet trade required is the plasterer. Plaster adheres easily to the special bags
- The wet bags behind the plaster allow the plasterwork to “cure” and not just dry out. This results in a very tough finish
- No bricks means no rubble removal which is a major cost on conventional sites
- No theft of building materials as there is nothing to steal
- The system exhibits tremendous thermal stability and excellent sound absorbing properties
- The system is much heavier than brick construction and is therefore wind resistant
- The system resists water penetration as the sand in the bags is a filter medium –any water penetrating the plaster simply filters down to the damp course and exits the wall to the outside
- The system is fire resistant
- Construction rate is extremely quick
- All members of the community can be involved, creating a sense of ownership, belonging and contribution
- The walls of the system are bullet-
proof - All electrical conduit, water, waste and sewerage pipes can be laid in by unskilled labour prior to plastering.
