NPQS

A3-50 External Timberwork

National Productivity and Quality Specifications (NPQS)

A3-50 External Timberwork

1
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

CONTENTS Page

1. GENERAL 3
1.1 Scope 3
1.2 Related Sections 3
1.3 Standards 3
1.4 Trade Preambles 4
1.5 Abbreviations / Definitions 5

2. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS 7
2.1 Contractors Brief 7

3. MATERIALS / COMPONENTS 8
3.1 Type of timberworks 8
3.2 Timber 8
3.3 Treatment of timber 9
3.4 Handling on site 9
3.5 Plate, sheet and strip used for joining and setting 10
3.6 Fixing and Fasteners 11
3.7 Grout 11
3.8 Protective Coatings 12
3.9 Ironmongery 12

4. WORKMANSHIP 13
4.1 Fabrication 13
4.2 Setting Out 13
4.3 Installation 13
4.4 Galvanized Surfaces 13

5. SUBMISSIONS / VERIFICATION 15
5.1 Submissions 15
5.2 Samples and Mock-ups 15
5.3 Tests 16

2
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

1. GENERAL
Read with the General Requirements section, and all other contract documents.

1.1 Scope
This section covers the requirements for the usage of timber as decorative elements
in the external landscape and as elements in boundary enclosures such as gates,
fences and screens. For large timber structures such as Pergolas and shelters seek
advice from a timber specialist.

1.2 Related Sections

Read this Work section in conjunction with the relevant requirements of the other
work sections as follows:
A1-80-3 External Painting and Coating

1.3 Standards
Unless otherwise agreed by the SO, ensure all of the Works comply with the relevant
requirements of the Standards and Codes listed below or referenced in the body of
the Specification. Alternative Standards and Codes may be proposed for approval by
the SO, provided it can be demonstrated that the alternative Standards and Codes
comply with the requirements of the standards specified. All Standards and Codes
quoted are the current version, unless specific year references are noted.

Singapore Standards
SS CP 1 The use of timber in building construction
SS CP 7 Structural use of timber
SS 71 Nomenclature of commercial timbers
SS 72 Treatment of timber and plywood with copper/chrome/arsenic
wood preservatives
SS 173 Glossary of terms relating to timber and woodwork
Other Standards
BS EN ISO 1461 Hot dip galvanized coatings on fabricated iron and steel articles -
specifications and test methods
BS EN 449 Petroleum Gas
BS EN 499 Welding consumables covered electrodes for manual metal arc
welding of non alloy and fine grain steels - classification
BS EN 1453 Filler material for gas welding
BS EN 3506 Mechanical Properties of Stainless Steel Fasteners
BS EN 10029 Stainless Steel
BS EN 10048 Stainless Steel
BS EN 10088 Stainless Steels

3
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

BS EN 10143 Continuously hot-dip metal coated steel sheet and strip -

tolerances on dimensions and shape
BS EN 10258 Cold-rolled stainless steel and narrow strip and cut lengths -
tolerances on dimensions and shape
BS EN 10259 Cold-rolled stainless steel wide strip and plate/sheet - tolerances
on dimensions and shape
BS EN 10263: Steel Rod, Bars and Wire for Cold Heating and Cold Extrusion:
Part 5 Technical Delivery Conditions for Stainless Steel
BS 1449 Steel plate, sheet and strip. Carbon and carbon-manganese
plate, sheet and strip
BS 1722 Fences
BS 2901 Fillers and rods for gas shielded arc welding
BS 3692 ISO metric precision hexagon bolts, screws and nuts
BS 4190 ISO metric black hexagon bolts, screws and nuts
BS 4320 Metal washers for general engineering purposes
BS 4360 Specification for weldable structural steels
BS 4464 Spring washers for engineering work
BS 4604 The use of high strength friction grip bolts in structural steel
work. Metric series
BS 4652 Zinc-rich priming paint (organic media)
BS 5589 Code of practice for preservation of timber
BS 6363 Specification for welded cold formed steel structural hollow
sections
AS/NZS 1604 Specification for preservative treatment
Technical References
Leaflet No 38 Malaysian Forest Service Trade Leaflet No 38

1.4 Trade Preambles

1.4.1 Contractors Submissions

The design intent including type and locations of the external timberworks for the
project are indicated in the drawings and schedules. Based on the information
supplied, engage qualified and experienced personnel to carry out and submit the
following items to the SO:
1.4.1.1 Develop details
Develop all necessary details for the fabrication and installation of the work, and to
meet with the performance requirements as set out in clause 2.0 below; Details to
develop may include shape and sizing of components, accessories and connections
to the building.

4
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

1.4.1.2 Design structural support

Design for the appropriate structural support for the works including structural
connection to the building frames, and foundations, if not shown in the structural
engineering drawings.
Where required as indicated in the PSD, engage a PE (civil) to verify the design and
endorse the submissions.
1.4.1.3 Propose suitable methods of installation to the works.
1.4.1.4 Propose manufacturer and product for proprietary items when called for.

1.4.2 Shop Drawings

Prepare and submit shop drawings to enable the fabrication and installation of the
works.

1.4.3 Co-ordination with Other Works

Co-ordinate the timber works particularly the interfacing with the following trades:
a. Walls and parapets
b. Foundation for the timberworks
c. Hardscape
d. Softscape
e. All External services

1.4.4 Provide Spare Material

Deliver to site in strong protective packages marked for identification, and store
where directed, components and materials for future replacement and repair. Refer
to the PSD for list.

1.4.5 Warranty
Provide warranty in accordance with contract conditions for the performance of the
following items:
a. Five-Year indemnity for the anti-termite treatment where applicable.

1.4.6 Maintenance Manual

No item.

1.4.7 Quality Control Plan

No item.

1.5 Abbreviations / Definitions

GMS General Market Specifications (term used by Malaysian Timber Industry
Board and referred to in SS CP 1)
MC Moisture Content

5
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

6
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

2. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Contractors Brief

When carrying out the proposals as set out in clause 1.4.1,take account of the
following requirements:

2.1.1 Structural Criteria

2.1.1.1 Dead Loads
The self-weight and other associated dead loads of the timberworks shall be
supported and transferred to the main building structure or into the ground in the form
of foundations.
2.1.1.2 Loading Capacity
All works shall sustain and withstand as a minimum, the gravity and lateral loadings
as set out in the Building Control Regulations, including crowd loads and impact
loads.
2.1.1.3 Wind Loads
The whole of the Works shall be able to withstand repeatedly imposed wind
pressures based on a design wind speed of 35 m/s.

2.1.2 Structural Movement and Movement Between Works by Others

Take into account that performance, appearance and proper functioning of the works
is not affected by any movements, settlement, deflection, expansion or contraction
which can be expected to occur in the building or the construction process.
Junction between the works and adjacent work by others shall be formed to take into
account, possible structural deflections or movement in that adjacent element without
distortion to the Works, or disintegration of joints between the works.

2.1.3 Environmental
Take into account, the environment for which the Works are to be applied, paying
particular attention to the daily and seasonal variations in rainfall, humidity and
temperature in the Tropics. Take into account, adequate protection is applied such
that the works do not deteriorate in satisfying the performance requirement within the
anticipated design life.

7
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

3. MATERIALS / COMPONENTS

3.1 Type of timberworks

Refer to the drawings for types and locations of external timber works required for the
project. Refer to the PSD for proprietary product specified if any.

3.2 Timber

3.2.1 Grade
Unless otherwise specified or approved by the SO all timber for external use shall be
from timbers classified under strength Group A Based on Malaysian Forest Service
Trade Leaflet No 38.
Grading shall be in accordance with Malaysian Grading Rules by qualified timber
grading agents registered with Malaysian Timber Industry Board.
Timber grade shall be of Sound Grade for GMS (General Market Specifications).
Refer to clause 3.1 for grades required for the works.

3.2.2 Moisture Content

Moisture content when fitted to be between 10-15%, moisture content variation
between adjacent timbers to be no more than 3%.

3.2.3 Member Sizes

Unless otherwise specified timber member sizes shall be in accordance with the
Malaysian Forest Service Trade Leaflet No 38 for square or rectangular sections.
Unless otherwise specified permissible variations for carpentry shall be:
a. For widths, depths or thickness not exceeding 75mmm within 5 mm of the
specified size.
b. For widths, depths or thicknesses exceeding 75mm, within 10mm of the specified
sizes.

3.2.4 Unwrought and Wrought Timber

Unwrought timbers shall be left with a sawn face to hold the full dimensions shown in
the drawings.
In wrought timber allow 2mm for each wrought face.
Pre-finished timber may be used if methods of fabrication do not damage or alter
appearance of finish.

3.2.5 Structural timbers

For structural works timber comply with structural specifications.

8
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

3.2.6 Joinery timber

Timber Grade shall be of Sound Grade (GMS and Strips) and Serviceable Grade
(Scantlings).
Timber shall be bare sawn.
Unless otherwise specified permissible variations for carpentry shall be:
a. For widths, within 3mm of the specified finished size
b. For thickness, within 2mm of the specified finished size.

3.3 Treatment of timber

3.3.1 Impregnation
Except as directed by the SO all timber shall be impregnated by means of vacuum
pressure processes in accordance with SS 72.
The following net dry salt retentions:
S/no Use Minimum net dry salt
retention
1. Exterior and above ground 8.0 kg/m3
2. Exterior and in contact with the ground 12.0 kg/m3
(other than foundations piles)
3. Foundations piles 16.0 kg/m3

Timber shall be cut to final dimensions before treatment.

In works requiring joinery quality timber shall be wrought, fully worked and ready for
joining before treatment.
Where cross cutting cannot be avoided or where further dressing is required, all
exposed surfaces shall be liberally swabbed with approved wood preservatives.
Submit a certificate from a preservative treatment plant showing impregnation by
means of a vacuum pressure processes and stating the dry salt retention standards
attained.

3.3.2 Termite Treatment

Hardwood shall be treated for fungi and insect attack, and thereafter kiln dried, prior
to moulding and dressing.

3.4 Handling on site

On delivery to site all timber shall be properly stack on stickers under cover.
Kiln dried timber shall be properly wrapped and stored under cover.

9
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

3.5 Plate, sheet and strip used for joining and setting

3.5.1 Stainless Steel

3.5.1.1 Grade
Stainless steel in plate, sheet and strip to comply with BS EN 10029, BS EN 10048,
BS EN 10258, BS EN 10259 and BS EN 10088 as appropriate.
Unless noted otherwise, grade 1.4401 (formerly 316) shall be used for visible
components, in all other circumstances grade 1.4301 (formerly 304) shall be used.
3.5.1.2 Fasteners
Unless otherwise specified on drawings manufacture from stainless steel, grade
1.4401 (316) to BS EN 10088.
3.5.1.3 Welding of Stainless Steel
To BS EN 1453 and BS 2901.
a. Use electrical fusion metal-arc method. Carbon-arc or gas welding will not be
permitted. Undertake in a thorough manner, with edging rod of same composition
as sheets or part welded.
b. Weld completed welds, strong and ductile, with excess metal ground off and joints
finish smooth to match adjoining surface. Welds shall be free of Mechanical
imperfections such as gas holes, pits, runs, crack etc. and shall have same colour
as adjoining surfaces. All sheets shall be continuously butted welded together
with welds ground smooth and polished. Butt welds made by spot welding strips
under beams and filling in the voids with solder and finishing by grinding will not
be acceptable
c. Wherever welds occur on surfaces not finished by grinding and polishing, such
welds and the accompanying discolouration shall be suitably coated in the factory
by means of metallic base paint to prevent the possibility of progressive corrosion
to such joints.

3.5.2 Carbon Steel

3.5.2.1 General
Steel components to be hot dip galvanised after fabrication unless alternative
corrosion protection is approved.
Do not cut, drill or work galvanised members.
3.5.2.2 Components
a. Steel Plates and Shapes: To BS4360
b. Bolts, Nuts and Washers: To BS 3692 (Grade 8.8) / BS 4190 (Grade 4.6)
c. High friction grip bolts shall comply with BS 4604
d. Cold Rolled Steel: To BS 1449: Section 1.3: matte finish.
e. Hot-dipped Galvanized Steel sheets: To BS EN 10143
f. Cold Formed Steel Hollow Section: To BS 6363
g. Welding Materials: To BS EN 499 and BS 6363

10
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

h. Concrete Inserts: Cast steel or malleable bolts, washers, and shims, hot-dipped
galvanized.
i. Stainless steel Fasteners & Washers: fasteners To BS EN 10263 - Part 5 and
BS EN 3506
j. Washers To BS 4320 and BS 4464

3.5.2.3 Welding of Steel

Comply with BS EN 449

3.5.3 Bolts, Nuts & Washers

Bolts, Nuts and Washers: BS 3692 (Grade 8.8) / BS 4190 (Grade 4.6)
High friction grip bolts shall comply with BS 4604

3.5.4 Galvanized Protection

Galvanizing shall be to BS EN ISO 1461
Provide all necessary vent and drain holes in approved locations and seal to approval
after galvanizing.

3.6 Fixing and Fasteners

3.6.1 Generally
Fasteners shall be to the appropriate standards above or as agreed with the SO, and
shall be able to withstand rust and corrosion in the tropical environment, while
matching the design intent as shown in the drawings.

3.6.2 Appearance
Concealed fixings are to be adopted unless otherwise shown on drawings.
Locate face fixings in unobtrusive positions.

3.6.3 Strength
Allow minimum safety factor of 2.5 in addition to the anchorage design safety factor.
Where requested on drawings supply a torque setting for bolted or screwed
fastenings.
Structural anchorage shall be by two or more fixing devices.

3.7 Grout
Grout between base/face plates and concrete is to have a minimum compressive
strength at 28 days of 40 N/mm2.

11
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

3.8 Protective Coatings

3.8.1 Generally
Refer to section A1-80-3 External Painting and Coating, clause 3.1 for general
requirement of coatings on timber substrate. Application shall be in accordance with
manufacturer instructions.
All coatings shall be UV resistant and moisture resistant against typical tropical
environment. The following Coatings may be used individually or in combination:
a. clear coatings
b. stain
c. paint
Refer to clause 3.1 for coatings required for the works.

3.8.2 Water Repellents

Comply with AS/NZS 1604. Submit suitable manufacturer and products to the SO.
Do not use Linseed oil, or mixtures containing a large proportion of linseed oil.

3.8.3 Compatibility
Check compatibility of different systems before use. Take cognisance that some paint
and pigmented stain finishes cannot be applied over water repellent preservatives.

3.9 Ironmongery
For locksets, hinges and latches etc. refer to clause 3.1 for proprietary products
selected for the project.

12
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

4. WORKMANSHIP

4.1 Fabrication
Verify dimension and clearances on site prior to shop fabrication.
Fabricate items with joints tightly fitted and secured.
Fit and shop assemble in largest practical sections for delivery to site. Locate joints
only as indicated on the architectural drawings unless otherwise agreed.

4.2 Setting Out

4.2.1 Gates and Fences

Set out boundary in accordance with topographical and boundary survey and
drawings.
Verify location with surveyor and SO to ensure that there is no encroachment into
adjacent property.
Set out location of gates and fencing showing top of fence and post with agreed
ground profile.

4.2.2 Post
Submit all post locations for approval.
Excavate and set out foundation for the posts as indicated in the drawings.
Erect shuttering to approved height, taking into account final ground level.

4.3 Installation

4.3.1 Pre-drilled holes

Pre-drill holes for all nail locations to avoid splitting.

4.3.2 Timber Rail Joints

Each rail shall not span less than 2 bays with joints in adjacent rails. Nail each length
of rail with stainless steel or copper nails. Sizes to suit rail and post thickness.
Reject rail with split ends.

4.3.3 Site Cutting

Site cutting shall not be permitted below ground level.
Cut surfaces to be treated with 2 coats brushed applied wood preservative colour to
match main timber element or treatment.

4.4 Galvanized Surfaces

Damaged galvanized surfaces to fastenings and fixings, shall be treated with low
melting point zinc alloy repair rods, or powders made for this purpose, and / or at

13
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

least 2 coats zinc rich paint to BS 4652. Apply sufficient thickness to provide a zinc
coating at least equal in thickness to the original specification or layer.

14
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

5. SUBMISSIONS / VERIFICATION

5.1 Submissions

5.1.1 Submissions
Include in construction program, event for submission of the following information:
a. Technical details for the manufactured items noted in clause 3.1.
b. Fabrication details for items set out on drawings

5.1.2 Design Submissions

Prepare an installation strategy, containing the following information, prior to the
preparation of detailed shop drawings.
a. Sequence of construction
b. Method statements
c. Specimen of warranty
Do not proceed to Fabrication stage until the SO has approved Design drawings and
installation strategy.

5.1.3 Fabrication Submissions

5.1.3.1 Shop Drawings
Prepare shop drawings, which shall include:
a. Plan Layout and sections of all timberworks at a scale of 1:50.
b. Section showing all details of connections/interfacing.
Fabrication shall not commence until shop drawings have been reviewed and
permission to proceed has been obtained from the SO.

5.1.4 Certification of Materials

Provide the SO with certification from the manufacturer of all materials/components,
certifying that the respective material is of the correct grade, strength, size, finish, etc,
and is in accordance with the relevant codes and standards specified.

5.1.5 Maintenance Submissions

No item.

5.1.6 Warranty
Submit the warranty upon completion of the works.

5.1.7 Quality Control Plan Submission

No item.

5.2 Samples and Mock-ups

Refer to the PSD for the schedule of samples and mock-ups required for the project.

15
Version 1.0
 NPQS
A3-50 External Timberwork

5.3 Tests
No items unless otherwise noted in the PSD.

16
Version 1.0