South African timber frame construction companies and all affiliated businesses are invited to apply to become members of the South African Institute of Timber Builders (SAITB), the recently re-named representative body of the industry.
Representing the following sectors within the timber construction industry, the SAITB ensures that the highest standards in timber construction are upheld, requirements of financial and insurance institutions are met, clients’ interests are protected and members are monitored and supported:
- Timber frame construction (Platform, Balloon frame and Post & Beam)
- Solid log structures
- Cross laminated timber structures
- Engineer designed site manufactured roof trusses
- Decks
- Boardwalks
- Bridges
- Any other structural timber work
The organisation was originally known as the Timber Frame Builders Association (TFBA), which was established over 30 years ago and which has undergone a few name changes over the past decade, most recently that of being part of the Institute of Timber Construction (ITC-SA). The ITC-SA continues to represent the roofing industry.
“The SAITB aims to not only represent those businesses in the timber construction industry but will be actively engaging with and encouraging professionals such as architects and engineers as well as all suppliers to the sector to join and be part of enhancing the growing use of timber in construction in South Africa,” says current chairman, Ben Paine of Logo Homes.
The SAITB boasts 20 members countrywide. Many of these members have been part of the industry representative body for decades and have continued to uphold the standards and requirements needed to ensure quality construction within the sector. New members are subject to a thorough screening process, ensuring all timber construction conforms to the National Building Regulations for Timber housing (SANS 10082), in order to meet municipality, banking and insurance company requirements.
The SAITB also exists to mediate issues between clients and builder members in the rare instances where disputes arise.