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Latest News AccuRATE V1.1.3.0 The latest version of 2nd Gen BTP Assessment tools has been released. DoP agree to a new Pilot to commence early February 2007. BASIX (DIY) Review ABSA instrumental in securing DoP DIY Sustainability Tool - DoP Review...not independent but a starting point Visit the ABSA Site for further details. DIY found to lower the standard of Residential Building BTP in NSW - varies between 200% to 400% below Simulation Method when compared with NatHERS and far more variation expected to AccuRATE.
| BORERS OF DRY SEASONED TIMBERSBorers are the larvae of
various species of beetles. The adult beetles lay their eggs within timber.
These eggs hatch out into larvae (grubs) which 'bore' through the timber and
can cause significant structural damage. The larvae may reside totally concealed
within the timber for a period of several years before passing into a dormant
pupal stage. Within the pupal case they metamorphose (change) into the adult
beetle which cuts a hole in the outer surface of the timber to emerge, mate and
lay further eggs to continue the cycle. It is only through the presence of these
emergent holes, and frass formed when the beetles cut the exit holes that their
presence can be detected. When floors are covered by carpets, tiling, or other floor coverings and where no access to the underfloor area is available it is not possible to determine whether borers are present or not. This is particularly the case with the upper floors of a dwelling. Borers of ‘green’ unseasoned timber may also be present. However these species will naturally die out as the timbers dry out in service. Whilst some emergent holes may occur in a new property it would be unusual for such a borer to cause structural damage, though the exit holes may be unsightly. Anobium borer (furniture beetle) and Queensland pine borer. These beetles are responsible for instances of flooring collapse, often triggered by a heavy object being placed on the floor (or a person stepping on the affected area!). Pine timbers are favored by this beetle and, while the sapwood is preferred, the heartwood is also sometimes attacked. Attack by this beetle is usually observed in timbers that have been in service for 10-20 years or more and mostly involves flooring and timber wall paneling. The frass from the flight holes (faeces and chewed wood) is fine and gritty. Wood attacked by these borers is often honeycombed. Lyctus borer (powderpost beetle) These borers only attack the sapwood of certain susceptible species of hardwood timber. Since it is a requirement that structural timbers contain no more than 25% Lyctus susceptible sapwood these borers are not normally associated with structural damage. Replacement of affected timbers is not recommended and treatment is not approved. Where decorative timbers are affected the emergent holes may be considered unsightly in which case timber replacement is the only option. Powderpost beetles mostly attack during the first 6-12 months of service life of timber. As only the sapwood is destroyed, larger dimensional timbers (such as rafters, bearers and joists) in a house are seldom weakened significantly to cause collapse. In small dimensional timbers (such as tiling or ceiling battens) the sapwood may be extensive, and its destruction may result in collapse. Replacement of these timbers is the only option available. Want More Information?If you require more information about
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