Boral for

A Boral Plasterboard Publication

Builders Summer Edition 2003

The ultimate guide to

Si
sa
la tio
n™
Star Rated
Housing Insulation

Pink Batts®
Batts ®

tor™

also in this issue:

oard

Pink

ia
rboard

Glad

• neighbourhood noise
erb
r™

• overloaded ceilings
l
Bora
Gladiato

Plaste

Plast

Batts ®
atts ®

• suspended ceilings
Boral

tor™
Pink B

Pink

• lifting equipment.
ia
Glad
r™
Gladiato

atts ®

Insulatin
g agains
Pink B

t rising
ENERG
Y
cost $
 coming events Plasterboard News
The Federation of Wall and Ceiling
State Chapter Functions
Review of Plasterboard Standard
Annual General Meeting – SA Good news, the long awaited review of the Australian/New Zealand
Date: November 10, 2003 Standard for gypsum linings in residential and light commercial
Venue: Kreswick, South Australia
construction, AS/NZS 2589.1:1997, is now underway.
Phone: (08) 8371 4599
As in the past, a number of review committees have been set
AMCAWA up comprising industry professionals from building product
Date: November 13, 2003 manufacturers, industry associations, building surveyors, architects
Venue: Windsor Hotel, South Perth
and designers. In the case of AS/NZS 2589, each committee member
Phone: (08) 9362 5977
has a sound knowledge of – and involvement in – the interior lining
Federal Executive Meeting industry issues that relate to the Standard. Boral Plasterboard’s
Date: March 04, 2004 Products and Systems Development Department is well represented,
Venue: TBA as it is in many other forums, and is keen to contribute to the
Phone: (08) 8371 5499 extensive list of amendments proposed for consideration.
Annual General Meeting – NSW Most progressive building industry participants would be aware
Date: March 05, 2004 that the building systems in use today are constantly evolving to
Venue: Parramatta accomodate regional influences, functional needs, design trends,
Phone: (02) 9891 6188
environmental and economic pressures. The way we install
AWCIV Annual Conference interior linings in 2003 is quite different to what we did in 1997. As
Date: March 19 – 20, 2004 an example, Boral Plasterboard has developed many innovative
Venue: La Trobe University Site systems to make installation easier and improve the reliability and
Beechworth finish of surfaces. Preformed bulk heads, butt joint stitching battens,
Phone: (03) 9531 4703 cornice joint reinforcers, wet area seal coats, specially formulated
Federal Executive Meeting back–blocking adhesive and improved screw design and fixing
Date: July 22, 2004 methods for ceilings are just a few of the commonly used systems
Venue: TBA and products not addressed by the existing Standard.
Phone: (08) 8371 5499 The proposed move to Five Star Energy ratings, covered in this issue
of Boral for Builders, may also impact on the future direction of
internal lining installation methods.

contents So it is appropriate we take a fresh look and formulate a new

Standard that embraces current techniques, allows for future
developments and sets an achievable level of finish that meets the
expectations of today’s home buyer.

Len Pimm
Editorial 2
Technical and Training Manager - National
Acoustics 3 Boral Plasterboard
Email: len.pimm@boral.com.au
Loads on plasterboard ceilings 4–5
Phone: 03 9214 2312
Insulation Star Ratings 6–8

Rondo fixing clip 9

Suspended Ceilings 10 – 11

Building Approvals 12 – 13

TecASSIST 14

2

The Sounds of Silence
N oise related issues in
residential areas have
received a lot of media attention
over the last couple of years.
The people experiencing the
greatest difficulties are those
who have bought into apartment
or townhouse complexes without
being fully aware of the potential
noise problems associated with
high density living.
The noises causing the greatest
amount of distress generally fall
into one of two categories:
• noise emanating from
external sources, such as
barking dogs, air conditioning
equipment and early morning
garbage trucks
• noise emanating from
neighbours living in adjacent
apartments or units.
The situation has escalated to
a point where occupiers are
disputing with each other and
builders, which in some cases
leads to litigation.
While the media sometimes
‘play up’ the noisy neighbour
syndrome, most people are just
going about their normal routine
of watching TV, playing music
or entertaining guests without
any intention of disturbing those
living close by.
A recent story related by an
acoustic consultant told of a
person who woke up during the
night to answer their phone, only
to realise it was the neighbour’s
phone that was ringing! This is
a good example of how some
tenancy separation walls fail
to provide the level of acoustic
privacy that occupiers have a
right to expect.
At present, Australia has one of the
lowest acoustic requirements in
the western world. One of the main
reasons behind the rising number of
neighbour noise complaints is that
the minimum levels of acoustic
protection, prescribed in the Building
Code of Australia (BCA), have not
met community expectations.
acoustics
The BCA has responded to these
concerns and will be releasing a
revised set of sound insulation
requirements in May 2004.
To avoid building-in future
noise problems, owners/
developers should now start
taking advantage of acoustic
wall systems. Boral has range of
solutions, such as EurekaWALL™
for apartments and PartiWALL®
for townhouses, that can be
configured to meet or exceed the
proposed requirements.
Improved acoustic isolation will
undoubtably become a valuable
marketing tool as discerning
buyers learn the benefits of
investing a little more to secure
an undisturbed new home
environment.
For further information contact
TecASSIST on our freecall
number: 1800 811222.
Contributed by Mark Debevc, Acoustic Engineer
Boral Plasterboard
3
 issues Loads on Plaster
Ceilings need our support
Recent state government announcements about
proposed legislation for the introduction of Five
Star Energy Ratings in new residential projects
may require specifiers, contractors and regulators
(such as Local Government, Australian Standards
and the BCA) to rethink the way ceilings are installed.
With the southern states proposing to move from
R2.5 to R3.5 thermal insulation, in response to the
Five Star energy efficient housing push, the current
review of the Australian/New Zealand Standard
AS/NZS 2589.1:1997, Gypsum linings in residential
iling collapse
asterboard can cause ce and light commercial construction—Application and
Loads placed on pl
finishing (refer editorial), will need to take account
of the extra insulation weight when revising ceiling
support systems. A number of thermal and acoustic
insulation products currently available in the
marketplace are non-draining and absorb moisture.
This retained moisture can increase the dead load
on a ceiling and push it beyond the design capacity
of the support system.
As ‘R’ ratings increase, it may become necessary
to provide a separate support system for
insulation to reduce the likelihood of excessive
deflection in a plasterboard ceiling. This practice
is growing in favour in some parts of NSW
where ceiling insulation batts are installed before
plasterboard and are supported by lines stapled to
Unsupported
recessed light the underside of the ceiling joists. Ceiling battens
s plac e extra load
on ceiling can also be used to help support insulation.
In recent years, the interior lining industry has
encouraged the use of recessed lighting to help
reduce the frequency of glancing light on finished
surfaces. This trend, however, has seen a number
of transformers incorrectly positioned on the back
of plasterboard ceilings instead of being fixed to a
structural support member. The cumulative weight
of transformers, fans, recessed and heavy light
fittings can combine to produce a dead load that
ceilings were never designed to carry. This could
lead to excessive plasterboard deflection, and in
extreme cases, ceiling failure.
Some homeowners further add to the problem by
using the ceiling cavity as a storage space without
providing a properly installed support structure to
Plasterboard ceiling gives way because of additional loading.
carry the additional loads.

4
 information
The practice of hanging ceiling suspension
systems from the lips of steel purlins has been
the subject of some confusion over the past few
years. To help clarify the situation, we revisit the
background of the issue, address the facts and
offer some alternative methods of construction.
With refinements in steel purlin design and
increasing loads from multi-layered plasterboard
ceilings, mechanical ductwork, light fittings and
electrical wiring, purlin distortion has become an
Fixing
issue. In some instances the distortion has been
enough to cause the ceiling suspension purlin
clips to dislodge and create a real risk of ceiling
Suspended
collapse.
As safety is of paramount importance a decision
was taken to include a recommendation in the
Ceilings to
Australian and New Zealand Suspended Ceiling
Standard AS/NZ 2785-2000 that when suspending
a ceiling from a steel purlin, the fixing should be
Purlins
made using a proprietary fixing clip, fixed to the
web of the purlin – not the lip. This decision was
supported by purlin manufacturers, plasterboard
manufacturers, architects, engineers and most
importantly by the Federation of Wall and Ceiling
Contributed by Glenn Ford
Boral Plasterboard
Industry Association – the representative body of
the ceiling installers.
Where the recommendation of AS/NZ 2785-2000
is not followed the ceiling installer is advised to
Fig A Recommended - Fix Rondo Friction Suspension Clip Part No. 534
to the web of the purlin ensuring first fastener is 10mm minimum consult the Project Engineer for a directive as to
from underside flange of purlin. whether the purlin has been designed to carry
the required suspended loads from the lip of the
purlin.
Don’t gamble with safety, follow the recommendations.
Fig B Not recommended – in fact, most manufacturers have removed
this type of fixing clip from sale.
 
9 10
equipment Give your plasterer board Ceilings issues
You can have it all!
Workplace safety and efficiency are key
ingredients for running successful businesses in
today’s progressive building industry.
Employers and contractors
now recognise that safety
a BIG lift
Points for consideration:
• The Plasterboard Standard requires
plasterboard to be tested to ensure it will not
deflect excessively under its own weight in a
hot and humid environment. It is not tested
with the additional loadings applied by ceiling
insulation, recessed lighting transformers and
and efficiency work ‘hand in
the like. Refer AS/NZS 2588:1998 C9.1.6 and
hand‘. Taking shortcuts
Appendix G
often leads to accidents,
which can affect both the • As previously mentioned, the introduction
well-being of workers and of energy efficiency provisions by the BCA
the ultimate success of a will probably result in more insulation being
project. installed in the roof cavity. This could lead to Roof storage items supported on a properly designed platform
increased weight on plasterboard, especially
Plasterboard sheets are probably one of the more
if independent support systems, such as
awkward building materials to handle, especially
ceiling battens or support lines are not used.
when there is only one person involved.
• In the southern states the focus on preventing
Fortunately there are lifting mechanisms heat leakage may result in higher humidity
available, such as Panellift ®, that can assist with within the dwelling. This could increase
moving, placing and fixing plasterboard sheets. the opportunity for mould formation and,
The equipment is simple to operate and helps if absorbed by the plasterboard, lead to a
plasterers place sheets against awkward sufaces Panellift makes light work of most installations. reduction in board strength. In addition,
such as elevated and/or sloping ceilings for easy reduced board strength may have a negative
effect on the ability of the ceiling to provide
fixing.
Panellift: the diaphragm action as claimed in the timber
Many installation situations that would normally • weighs under 50kg framing code.
require two or more installers can now be safely • can lift a single sheet weighing 68kg to a height of
3.1m, or to 4.3m with an optional 1.2m extension. • Using ceiling battens to support the weight
and easily handled by one fixer using lifting
• can lift one sheet at a time of the following: of glasswool or rockwool batt insulation will
equipment.
- 4.8m x 1.2m x 13mm plasterboard (49kg) give a higher overall R-value for the roof/ Lighting transformers properly mounted on a structural member
For more information contact: - 3.6m x 1.2m x 16mm Firestop (56kg)
ceiling system than not using battens for the
• dismantles for transport in the boot of most cars.
• Wallboard Tool Company P/L Tel: 1300 653 177 same insulation. (Reference: - BRANZ House
• Boral TecASSIST Tel: 1800 811 222 Insulation guide published in May 1995.)
• Some insulation products are free draining and
don’t hold moisture. However, others do retain
Lif ting equipment turns many plasterboard installations into a one-man operation. Lif ting equipment packs into the boot of most cars. moisture and this can increase the weight
bearing on a ceiling. There may also be a
problem if moisture is in close contact with the
back of the plasterboard as it can weaken the
board and increase the risk of it sagging.
Boral Plasterboard is currently undertaking an
extensive investigation into ceiling insulation
products and their effects on plasterboard as
mentioned above. Watch this space.
Contributed by Andrew Close and Len Pimm
Boral Plasterboard Ceiling ducts suspended from structural members
5
1
 Star Quality I N S U L A T I O N Table 2
ECOPINK
Insulation Systems

Zone 1
&
Zone 2
below 300m
Roof
Ceiling
Tiled Roof

Sisalation 466
Pink Batts R3.3
Total
R5.1
Roof
Ceiling

Roof
Metal Roof

Permastop 55
Pink Batts R2.5

Sisalation 439
Total
R5.2
Brick Veneer
Wall
Gladiator
Pink Batts R1.5
Total
R2.0
Weatherboard
Wall
Gladiator Breather
Pink Batts R1.5
Total
R1.8

Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3

Another Way? What’s happening in Victoria?

Queensland
then produce a score that can
Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
range from 1 Star for inefficient Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 R4.2 Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 Total Pink Batts R1.5 R2.0 Pink Batts R1.5 R1.8
Zone 2
designs to 5 Stars for highly Current practice indicates many designers and builders The current insulating requirements will continue up above 300m Roof Sisalation 439 R5.2
A growing number of major builders across
efficient designs. are already working above the minimum requirements until July 2004 when all new houses and apartments Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3
Australia have recognised the marketing
of the BCA. Insulation Solutions, manufacturers of in Victoria will have to comply with the new 5 Star Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55benefits of energy efficient homes,
Gladiator Totaland Gladiator
are Breather Total
This Star rating system now already working
Pink Batts™ and Sisalation™, has developed ECOPINK standard. Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 R4.2 Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 Total PinktoBatts
the 5R1.5
Star level.
R2.0 Pink Batts R1.5 R1.8
forms part of the Building Code Zones 3 & 5
insulation systems for each of the BCA Climate Zones, R5.4
That cosy feeling
Roof Sisalation 439
of Australia (BCA) and sets minimum 5 Star homes offer energy saving features to provide a high Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3
refer Table 2. These can be tailored to achieve a 5 Star
standards of 31⁄2 Stars for dwellings degree of comfort and reduced operating costs. In Fact, 5
Regardless of where you live or rating and satisfy the comfort and energy efficiency Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Total Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
located in Climate Zones 1–3 (focuses Star homes can be up to five degrees warmer in winter

New South
Zone 5
what type of home you have, installing expectations of today’s new home owners. Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 R4.3 Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 R4.6 Pink Batts R1.5 R2.0 Pink Batts R1.5 R1.8
on keeping heat out) and 4 Stars for and ten degrees cooler in summer compared with less

Wales
the ‘right’ insulation is the most cost efficient homes. Zones 4 & 6
Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Total Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
dwellings in Climate Zones 4–8 (focuses Ceiling Pink Batts R3.8 R4.8 Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 R4.6 Pink Batts R1.5 R2.0 Pink Batts R1.5 R1.8
effective way to improve household
on keeping heat in). Typically, a 5 Star home will include: Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Total Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
comfort and lower energy consumption. Zone 7
Ceiling Pink Batts R3.8 R4.8 Ceiling Pink Batts R3.8 R5.5 Pink Batts R2.0 R2.5 Pink Batts R2.0 R2.3
These provisions have now been adopted • good design, maximising natural heat and light
Insulation performance is measured by
by the Northern Territory*, Queensland, • improved window quality and better insulation Southern Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
the ‘R’ value (resistance to heat transfer). Coastal
Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 R4.3 Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 Pink Batts R1.5 R2.0 Pink Batts R1.5 R1.8
Tasmania, South Australia and Western • good draft proofing and ventilation control. (incl Metro Total
Generally, the higher the ‘R’ value the greater Melbourne) Roof Sisalation 439 R4.2
Australia. The ACT has been working to a 4

Victoria
& Northern
energy efficiency. The two most common All new 5 Star homes will have to be formally certified Inland Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3
Star level for a number of years. NSW is currently
types of insulation used in domestic construction are by a House Energy Rater, accredited by the Sustainable Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
working to a voluntary minimum of 31⁄2 Stars and will
bulk and reflective. Energy Authority of Victoria. The Victorian building Great Dividing Ceiling Pink Batts R3.8 R4.8 Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 Total Pink Batts R2.0 R2.5 Pink Batts R2.0 R2.3
enforce the BCA provisions from May 2004. Victoria Range R4.7
industry will have three ways to demonstrate Roof Sisalation 439
Bulk insulation uses small, trapped air pockets to will continue under the local existing 1991 regulations Ceiling Pink Batts R3.8
compliance with 5 Star requirement when the new
reduce heat flow. Contrary to popular thinking, for the short term and then move to 5 Stars (or 4 Star
Standard is adopted in July 2004. Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Sisalation 439 Total Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total

Tas
it is actually the air that does the insulating. Bulk plus additional economies) in July 2004. Zone 7
Ceiling Pink Batts R3.8 R4.8 Ceiling Pink Batts R3.8 R4.7 Pink Batts R2.0 R2.5 Pink Batts R2.0 R2.3
insulation performs equally well keeping the heat out *Currently working to the ‘deemed to comply’ specifications of the BCA. • Option 1
5 Star energy rating for the building fabric provided Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
in summer and keeping warmth in during winter. Table 1 Accredited Raters

South Australia
Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 R4.3 Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 Pink Batts R1.5 R2.0 Pink Batts R1.5 R1.8
How does this affect a builder?
Total
The lists of accredited raters are continually changing and by an accredited House Energy Rater. Zones 4 & 6
Reflective insulation works by only allowing a small Roof Sisalation 439 R4.2
builders are advised to contact their local council or refer to • Option 2
amount of the radiant heat it receives to pass through As the States adopt the energy saving provisions of the following internet addresses: Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3
4 Star energy rating for building fabric plus water
into the house. While some reflective insulating the BCA, builders will have to either:
Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
Queensland www.solarlogic.com.au saving measures and a solar HWS. Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 R4.3 Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 Pink Batts R1.5 R2.0 Pink Batts R1.5 R1.8
products can play a role in retaining household heat Zones 5
Total
• obtain an energy rating certificate from an New South Wales www.hmb.net.au • Option 3 Roof Sisalation 439 R4.2
during winter, they are generally more effective at
accredited assessor or Victoria www.seav.vic.gov.au/buildings/firstrate/ 4 Star energy rating for building fabric plus water Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5
keeping heat out during summer.
firstratelistsort.asp saving measures and a rain water tank.
• demonstrate their design satisfies the ‘deemed to Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Total Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
Most houses benefit from a combination of both bulk Tasmania www.eera.org.au (under construction) Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 R5.1 Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 R5.2 Pink Batts R1.5 R2.0 Pink Batts R1.5 R1.8
comply’ specifications outlined in the BCA Energy Environmental Rating Association These options will be available for a 12 month period to Zone 1
and reflective insulation. The quantity and manner Roof Sisalation 439 Total
allow builders flexibility in the way they choose to meet

Western Australia
Phone: (03) 6334 8872
in which each type of insulation is used depends on before a Certificate of Occupancy will be issued. Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 R5.1
South Australia www.planning.sa.gov.auenergyefficiency/ the requirements of the Standard.
Climate Zone the house belongs to. Builders who elect to obtain an energy rating Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
Western Australia www1.sedo.energy.wa.gov.au/pages/
her.asp
However, from July 2005, the new residential energy Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 R4.3 Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 Total Pink Batts R1.5 R2.0 Pink Batts R1.5 R1.8
certificate will need to have their design assessed by Zones 3 & 5
Aiming for the Stars an accredited energy rater, refer Table 1. Northern Territory www.smartenergyaustralia.com.au
Standard will require: Roof
Ceiling
Sisalation 439
Pink Batts R3.3
R4.6

• 5 Star energy rating for the building

The benefits of incorporating insulation and energy Builders who elect to follow the ‘deemed to comply’ Roof Sisalation 466 Total Roof Permastop 55 Gladiator Total Gladiator Breather Total
fabric plus either
efficiency into new homes were two of the key topics specifications of the BCA will need to: Zones 4 & 6
Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 R4.3 Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 Total Pink Batts R2.0 R2.0 Pink Batts R2.0 R1.8
a water saving measures and a rain R4.2
discussed at the recent National Conference of the Roof Sisalation 439
• determine the climate zone for their project. This water tank or Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3
Australian Building Codes Board.
can be done by accessing the Climate Zone Map a solar hot water service.
Current methods for measuring household energy located at: Metal Roof Metal Clad
The above water/plumbing Tiled Roof
efficiency (such as First Rate, NatHERS and BERS) take www.abcb.gov.au/content/energy/ Wall Wall
initiatives are subject to
into account many variables including floor/wall/ • install insulation according to Roof Sisalation 466 Total
Roof Permastop 75
Sisalation 433 Total
a Regulatory Impact Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3 R5.1 Pink Batts R1.5 R1.8

Northern
Territory
ceiling/roof construction, doors, windows, skylights, the BCA requirements for the
Statement, which means Roof Permastop 55
air flow/leakage, climate, siting and insulation and appropriate Climate Zone. Zones 1 & 3
Total
that the implementation Ceiling Pink Batts R2.5 R5.2

is subject to industry Roof Sisalation 439

Ceiling Pink Batts R3.3
consultation.
6 Climate Zones can be determined by referring to the Climate Zone Map located at: www.abcb.gov.au/content/energy/
8
 information
The practice of hanging ceiling suspension
systems from the lips of steel purlins has been
the subject of some confusion over the past few
years. To help clarify the situation, we revisit the
background of the issue, address the facts and
offer some alternative methods of construction.
With refinements in steel purlin design and
increasing loads from multi-layered plasterboard
ceilings, mechanical ductwork, light fittings and
electrical wiring, purlin distortion has become an
Fixing
issue. In some instances the distortion has been
enough to cause the ceiling suspension purlin
clips to dislodge and create a real risk of ceiling
Suspended
collapse.
As safety is of paramount importance a decision
was taken to include a recommendation in the
Ceilings to
Australian and New Zealand Suspended Ceiling
Standard AS/NZ 2785-2000 that when suspending
a ceiling from a steel purlin, the fixing should be
Purlins
made using a proprietary fixing clip, fixed to the
web of the purlin – not the lip. This decision was
supported by purlin manufacturers, plasterboard
manufacturers, architects, engineers and most
importantly by the Federation of Wall and Ceiling
Contributed by Glenn Ford
Boral Plasterboard
Industry Association – the representative body of
the ceiling installers.
Where the recommendation of AS/NZ 2785-2000
is not followed the ceiling installer is advised to
Fig A Recommended - Fix Rondo Friction Suspension Clip Part No. 534
to the web of the purlin ensuring first fastener is 10mm minimum consult the Project Engineer for a directive as to
from underside flange of purlin. whether the purlin has been designed to carry
the required suspended loads from the lip of the
purlin.
Don’t gamble with safety, follow the recommendations.
Fig B Not recommended – in fact, most manufacturers have removed
this type of fixing clip from sale.
 
9 10
equipment Give your plasterer board Ceilings issues
You can have it all!
Workplace safety and efficiency are key
ingredients for running successful businesses in
today’s progressive building industry.
Employers and contractors
now recognise that safety
a BIG lift
Points for consideration:
• The Plasterboard Standard requires
plasterboard to be tested to ensure it will not
deflect excessively under its own weight in a
hot and humid environment. It is not tested
with the additional loadings applied by ceiling
insulation, recessed lighting transformers and
and efficiency work ‘hand in
the like. Refer AS/NZS 2588:1998 C9.1.6 and
hand‘. Taking shortcuts
Appendix G
often leads to accidents,
which can affect both the • As previously mentioned, the introduction
well-being of workers and of energy efficiency provisions by the BCA
the ultimate success of a will probably result in more insulation being
project. installed in the roof cavity. This could lead to Roof storage items supported on a properly designed platform
increased weight on plasterboard, especially
Plasterboard sheets are probably one of the more
if independent support systems, such as
awkward building materials to handle, especially
ceiling battens or support lines are not used.
when there is only one person involved.
• In the southern states the focus on preventing
Fortunately there are lifting mechanisms heat leakage may result in higher humidity
available, such as Panellift ®, that can assist with within the dwelling. This could increase
moving, placing and fixing plasterboard sheets. the opportunity for mould formation and,
The equipment is simple to operate and helps if absorbed by the plasterboard, lead to a
plasterers place sheets against awkward sufaces Panellift makes light work of most installations. reduction in board strength. In addition,
such as elevated and/or sloping ceilings for easy reduced board strength may have a negative
effect on the ability of the ceiling to provide
fixing.
Panellift: the diaphragm action as claimed in the timber
Many installation situations that would normally • weighs under 50kg framing code.
require two or more installers can now be safely • can lift a single sheet weighing 68kg to a height of
3.1m, or to 4.3m with an optional 1.2m extension. • Using ceiling battens to support the weight
and easily handled by one fixer using lifting
• can lift one sheet at a time of the following: of glasswool or rockwool batt insulation will
equipment.
- 4.8m x 1.2m x 13mm plasterboard (49kg) give a higher overall R-value for the roof/ Lighting transformers properly mounted on a structural member
For more information contact: - 3.6m x 1.2m x 16mm Firestop (56kg)
ceiling system than not using battens for the
• dismantles for transport in the boot of most cars.
• Wallboard Tool Company P/L Tel: 1300 653 177 same insulation. (Reference: - BRANZ House
• Boral TecASSIST Tel: 1800 811 222 Insulation guide published in May 1995.)
• Some insulation products are free draining and
don’t hold moisture. However, others do retain
Lif ting equipment turns many plasterboard installations into a one-man operation. Lif ting equipment packs into the boot of most cars. moisture and this can increase the weight
bearing on a ceiling. There may also be a
problem if moisture is in close contact with the
back of the plasterboard as it can weaken the
board and increase the risk of it sagging.
Boral Plasterboard is currently undertaking an
extensive investigation into ceiling insulation
products and their effects on plasterboard as
mentioned above. Watch this space.
Contributed by Andrew Close and Len Pimm
Boral Plasterboard Ceiling ducts suspended from structural members
5
1
 information
The practice of hanging ceiling suspension
systems from the lips of steel purlins has been
the subject of some confusion over the past few
years. To help clarify the situation, we revisit the
background of the issue, address the facts and
offer some alternative methods of construction.
With refinements in steel purlin design and
increasing loads from multi-layered plasterboard
ceilings, mechanical ductwork, light fittings and
electrical wiring, purlin distortion has become an
Fixing
issue. In some instances the distortion has been
enough to cause the ceiling suspension purlin
clips to dislodge and create a real risk of ceiling
Suspended
collapse.
As safety is of paramount importance a decision
was taken to include a recommendation in the
Ceilings to
Australian and New Zealand Suspended Ceiling
Standard AS/NZ 2785-2000 that when suspending
a ceiling from a steel purlin, the fixing should be
Purlins
made using a proprietary fixing clip, fixed to the
web of the purlin – not the lip. This decision was
supported by purlin manufacturers, plasterboard
manufacturers, architects, engineers and most
importantly by the Federation of Wall and Ceiling
Contributed by Glenn Ford
Boral Plasterboard
Industry Association – the representative body of
the ceiling installers.
Where the recommendation of AS/NZ 2785-2000
is not followed the ceiling installer is advised to
Fig A Recommended - Fix Rondo Friction Suspension Clip Part No. 534
to the web of the purlin ensuring first fastener is 10mm minimum consult the Project Engineer for a directive as to
from underside flange of purlin. whether the purlin has been designed to carry
the required suspended loads from the lip of the
purlin.
Don’t gamble with safety, follow the recommendations.
Fig B Not recommended – in fact, most manufacturers have removed
this type of fixing clip from sale.
 
9 10
equipment Give your plasterer board Ceilings issues
You can have it all!
Workplace safety and efficiency are key
ingredients for running successful businesses in
today’s progressive building industry.
Employers and contractors
now recognise that safety
a BIG lift
Points for consideration:
• The Plasterboard Standard requires
plasterboard to be tested to ensure it will not
deflect excessively under its own weight in a
hot and humid environment. It is not tested
with the additional loadings applied by ceiling
insulation, recessed lighting transformers and
and efficiency work ‘hand in
the like. Refer AS/NZS 2588:1998 C9.1.6 and
hand‘. Taking shortcuts
Appendix G
often leads to accidents,
which can affect both the • As previously mentioned, the introduction
well-being of workers and of energy efficiency provisions by the BCA
the ultimate success of a will probably result in more insulation being
project. installed in the roof cavity. This could lead to Roof storage items supported on a properly designed platform
increased weight on plasterboard, especially
Plasterboard sheets are probably one of the more
if independent support systems, such as
awkward building materials to handle, especially
ceiling battens or support lines are not used.
when there is only one person involved.
• In the southern states the focus on preventing
Fortunately there are lifting mechanisms heat leakage may result in higher humidity
available, such as Panellift ®, that can assist with within the dwelling. This could increase
moving, placing and fixing plasterboard sheets. the opportunity for mould formation and,
The equipment is simple to operate and helps if absorbed by the plasterboard, lead to a
plasterers place sheets against awkward sufaces Panellift makes light work of most installations. reduction in board strength. In addition,
such as elevated and/or sloping ceilings for easy reduced board strength may have a negative
effect on the ability of the ceiling to provide
fixing.
Panellift: the diaphragm action as claimed in the timber
Many installation situations that would normally • weighs under 50kg framing code.
require two or more installers can now be safely • can lift a single sheet weighing 68kg to a height of
3.1m, or to 4.3m with an optional 1.2m extension. • Using ceiling battens to support the weight
and easily handled by one fixer using lifting
• can lift one sheet at a time of the following: of glasswool or rockwool batt insulation will
equipment.
- 4.8m x 1.2m x 13mm plasterboard (49kg) give a higher overall R-value for the roof/ Lighting transformers properly mounted on a structural member
For more information contact: - 3.6m x 1.2m x 16mm Firestop (56kg)
ceiling system than not using battens for the
• dismantles for transport in the boot of most cars.
• Wallboard Tool Company P/L Tel: 1300 653 177 same insulation. (Reference: - BRANZ House
• Boral TecASSIST Tel: 1800 811 222 Insulation guide published in May 1995.)
• Some insulation products are free draining and
don’t hold moisture. However, others do retain
Lif ting equipment turns many plasterboard installations into a one-man operation. Lif ting equipment packs into the boot of most cars. moisture and this can increase the weight
bearing on a ceiling. There may also be a
problem if moisture is in close contact with the
back of the plasterboard as it can weaken the
board and increase the risk of it sagging.
Boral Plasterboard is currently undertaking an
extensive investigation into ceiling insulation
products and their effects on plasterboard as
mentioned above. Watch this space.
Contributed by Andrew Close and Len Pimm
Boral Plasterboard Ceiling ducts suspended from structural members
5
1
 information
The practice of hanging ceiling suspension
systems from the lips of steel purlins has been
the subject of some confusion over the past few
years. To help clarify the situation, we revisit the
background of the issue, address the facts and
offer some alternative methods of construction.
With refinements in steel purlin design and
increasing loads from multi-layered plasterboard
ceilings, mechanical ductwork, light fittings and
electrical wiring, purlin distortion has become an
Fixing
issue. In some instances the distortion has been
enough to cause the ceiling suspension purlin
clips to dislodge and create a real risk of ceiling
Suspended
collapse.
As safety is of paramount importance a decision
was taken to include a recommendation in the
Ceilings to
Australian and New Zealand Suspended Ceiling
Standard AS/NZ 2785-2000 that when suspending
a ceiling from a steel purlin, the fixing should be
Purlins
made using a proprietary fixing clip, fixed to the
web of the purlin – not the lip. This decision was
supported by purlin manufacturers, plasterboard
manufacturers, architects, engineers and most
importantly by the Federation of Wall and Ceiling
Contributed by Glenn Ford
Boral Plasterboard
Industry Association – the representative body of
the ceiling installers.
Where the recommendation of AS/NZ 2785-2000
is not followed the ceiling installer is advised to
Fig A Recommended - Fix Rondo Friction Suspension Clip Part No. 534
to the web of the purlin ensuring first fastener is 10mm minimum consult the Project Engineer for a directive as to
from underside flange of purlin. whether the purlin has been designed to carry
the required suspended loads from the lip of the
purlin.
Don’t gamble with safety, follow the recommendations.
Fig B Not recommended – in fact, most manufacturers have removed
this type of fixing clip from sale.
 
9 10
equipment Give your plasterer board Ceilings issues
You can have it all!
Workplace safety and efficiency are key
ingredients for running successful businesses in
today’s progressive building industry.
Employers and contractors
now recognise that safety
a BIG lift
Points for consideration:
• The Plasterboard Standard requires
plasterboard to be tested to ensure it will not
deflect excessively under its own weight in a
hot and humid environment. It is not tested
with the additional loadings applied by ceiling
insulation, recessed lighting transformers and
and efficiency work ‘hand in
the like. Refer AS/NZS 2588:1998 C9.1.6 and
hand‘. Taking shortcuts
Appendix G
often leads to accidents,
which can affect both the • As previously mentioned, the introduction
well-being of workers and of energy efficiency provisions by the BCA
the ultimate success of a will probably result in more insulation being
project. installed in the roof cavity. This could lead to Roof storage items supported on a properly designed platform
increased weight on plasterboard, especially
Plasterboard sheets are probably one of the more
if independent support systems, such as
awkward building materials to handle, especially
ceiling battens or support lines are not used.
when there is only one person involved.
• In the southern states the focus on preventing
Fortunately there are lifting mechanisms heat leakage may result in higher humidity
available, such as Panellift ®, that can assist with within the dwelling. This could increase
moving, placing and fixing plasterboard sheets. the opportunity for mould formation and,
The equipment is simple to operate and helps if absorbed by the plasterboard, lead to a
plasterers place sheets against awkward sufaces Panellift makes light work of most installations. reduction in board strength. In addition,
such as elevated and/or sloping ceilings for easy reduced board strength may have a negative
effect on the ability of the ceiling to provide
fixing.
Panellift: the diaphragm action as claimed in the timber
Many installation situations that would normally • weighs under 50kg framing code.
require two or more installers can now be safely • can lift a single sheet weighing 68kg to a height of
3.1m, or to 4.3m with an optional 1.2m extension. • Using ceiling battens to support the weight
and easily handled by one fixer using lifting
• can lift one sheet at a time of the following: of glasswool or rockwool batt insulation will
equipment.
- 4.8m x 1.2m x 13mm plasterboard (49kg) give a higher overall R-value for the roof/ Lighting transformers properly mounted on a structural member
For more information contact: - 3.6m x 1.2m x 16mm Firestop (56kg)
ceiling system than not using battens for the
• dismantles for transport in the boot of most cars.
• Wallboard Tool Company P/L Tel: 1300 653 177 same insulation. (Reference: - BRANZ House
• Boral TecASSIST Tel: 1800 811 222 Insulation guide published in May 1995.)
• Some insulation products are free draining and
don’t hold moisture. However, others do retain
Lif ting equipment turns many plasterboard installations into a one-man operation. Lif ting equipment packs into the boot of most cars. moisture and this can increase the weight
bearing on a ceiling. There may also be a
problem if moisture is in close contact with the
back of the plasterboard as it can weaken the
board and increase the risk of it sagging.
Boral Plasterboard is currently undertaking an
extensive investigation into ceiling insulation
products and their effects on plasterboard as
mentioned above. Watch this space.
Contributed by Andrew Close and Len Pimm
Boral Plasterboard Ceiling ducts suspended from structural members
5
1
 information
The practice of hanging ceiling suspension
systems from the lips of steel purlins has been
the subject of some confusion over the past few
years. To help clarify the situation, we revisit the
background of the issue, address the facts and
offer some alternative methods of construction.
With refinements in steel purlin design and
increasing loads from multi-layered plasterboard
ceilings, mechanical ductwork, light fittings and
electrical wiring, purlin distortion has become an
Fixing
issue. In some instances the distortion has been
enough to cause the ceiling suspension purlin
clips to dislodge and create a real risk of ceiling
Suspended
collapse.
As safety is of paramount importance a decision
was taken to include a recommendation in the
Ceilings to
Australian and New Zealand Suspended Ceiling
Standard AS/NZ 2785-2000 that when suspending
a ceiling from a steel purlin, the fixing should be
Purlins
made using a proprietary fixing clip, fixed to the
web of the purlin – not the lip. This decision was
supported by purlin manufacturers, plasterboard
manufacturers, architects, engineers and most
importantly by the Federation of Wall and Ceiling
Contributed by Glenn Ford
Boral Plasterboard
Industry Association – the representative body of
the ceiling installers.
Where the recommendation of AS/NZ 2785-2000
is not followed the ceiling installer is advised to
Fig A Recommended - Fix Rondo Friction Suspension Clip Part No. 534
to the web of the purlin ensuring first fastener is 10mm minimum consult the Project Engineer for a directive as to
from underside flange of purlin. whether the purlin has been designed to carry
the required suspended loads from the lip of the
purlin.
Don’t gamble with safety, follow the recommendations.
Fig B Not recommended – in fact, most manufacturers have removed
this type of fixing clip from sale.
 
9 10
equipment Give your plasterer board Ceilings issues
You can have it all!
Workplace safety and efficiency are key
ingredients for running successful businesses in
today’s progressive building industry.
Employers and contractors
now recognise that safety
a BIG lift
Points for consideration:
• The Plasterboard Standard requires
plasterboard to be tested to ensure it will not
deflect excessively under its own weight in a
hot and humid environment. It is not tested
with the additional loadings applied by ceiling
insulation, recessed lighting transformers and
and efficiency work ‘hand in
the like. Refer AS/NZS 2588:1998 C9.1.6 and
hand‘. Taking shortcuts
Appendix G
often leads to accidents,
which can affect both the • As previously mentioned, the introduction
well-being of workers and of energy efficiency provisions by the BCA
the ultimate success of a will probably result in more insulation being
project. installed in the roof cavity. This could lead to Roof storage items supported on a properly designed platform
increased weight on plasterboard, especially
Plasterboard sheets are probably one of the more
if independent support systems, such as
awkward building materials to handle, especially
ceiling battens or support lines are not used.
when there is only one person involved.
• In the southern states the focus on preventing
Fortunately there are lifting mechanisms heat leakage may result in higher humidity
available, such as Panellift ®, that can assist with within the dwelling. This could increase
moving, placing and fixing plasterboard sheets. the opportunity for mould formation and,
The equipment is simple to operate and helps if absorbed by the plasterboard, lead to a
plasterers place sheets against awkward sufaces Panellift makes light work of most installations. reduction in board strength. In addition,
such as elevated and/or sloping ceilings for easy reduced board strength may have a negative
effect on the ability of the ceiling to provide
fixing.
Panellift: the diaphragm action as claimed in the timber
Many installation situations that would normally • weighs under 50kg framing code.
require two or more installers can now be safely • can lift a single sheet weighing 68kg to a height of
3.1m, or to 4.3m with an optional 1.2m extension. • Using ceiling battens to support the weight
and easily handled by one fixer using lifting
• can lift one sheet at a time of the following: of glasswool or rockwool batt insulation will
equipment.
- 4.8m x 1.2m x 13mm plasterboard (49kg) give a higher overall R-value for the roof/ Lighting transformers properly mounted on a structural member
For more information contact: - 3.6m x 1.2m x 16mm Firestop (56kg)
ceiling system than not using battens for the
• dismantles for transport in the boot of most cars.
• Wallboard Tool Company P/L Tel: 1300 653 177 same insulation. (Reference: - BRANZ House
• Boral TecASSIST Tel: 1800 811 222 Insulation guide published in May 1995.)
• Some insulation products are free draining and
don’t hold moisture. However, others do retain
Lif ting equipment turns many plasterboard installations into a one-man operation. Lif ting equipment packs into the boot of most cars. moisture and this can increase the weight
bearing on a ceiling. There may also be a
problem if moisture is in close contact with the
back of the plasterboard as it can weaken the
board and increase the risk of it sagging.
Boral Plasterboard is currently undertaking an
extensive investigation into ceiling insulation
products and their effects on plasterboard as
mentioned above. Watch this space.
Contributed by Andrew Close and Len Pimm
Boral Plasterboard Ceiling ducts suspended from structural members
5
1
 equipment

Lifting equipment significantly improves the safety and quality if difficult installations such as elevated raking ceilings.

11
 Building Approvals
Number of houses and other residential
buildings approved by Statistical Division (SD)
September Quarter 2002 and 2003
Prepared for Boral Plasterboard - October 2003
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics

Dwelling Approvals Dwelling Approvals

NSW September Quarter 2002 September Quarter 2003 Variance %

Total Total other Total Total Total other Total Total Total other Total
Regions houses residential residential houses residential residential houses residential residential
building building building

Sydney 2,874 4,361 7,235 2,577 5,053 7,630 -10.33 15.87 5.46
Hunter 847 378 1,225 878 493 1,371 3.66 30.42 11.92
Illawarra 672 177 849 595 262 857 -11.46 48.02 0.94
Richmond-Tweed 492 278 770 345 130 475 -29.88 -53.24 -38.31
Mid-North Coast 647 119 766 597 225 822 -7.73 89.08 7.31
Northern 152 12 164 108 13 121 -28.95 8.33 -26.22
North Western 109 30 139 106 20 126 -2.75 -33.33 -9.35
Central West 199 32 231 246 53 299 23.62 65.63 29.44
South Eastern 461 85 546 397 108 505 -13.88 27.06 -7.51
Murrumbidgee 175 53 228 263 22 285 50.29 -58.49 25.00
Murray 182 6 188 161 5 166 -11.54 -16.67 -11.70
Far West 1 0 1 9 0 9 800.00 0.00 800.00
New South Wales 6,811 5,531 12,342 6,282 6,384 12,666 -7.77 15.42 2.63

Dwelling Approvals Dwelling Approvals

Victoria September Quarter 2002 September Quarter 2003 Variance %

Total Total other Total Total Total other Total Total Total other Total
Regions houses residential residential houses residential residential houses residential residential
building building building

Melbourne 6,263 4,511 10,774 6,091 2,422 8,513 -2.75 -46.31 -20.99
Barwon 676 37 713 720 47 767 6.51 27.03 7.57
Western District 127 30 157 137 20 157 7.87 -33.33 0.00
Central Highlands 350 30 380 321 25 346 -8.29 -16.67 -8.95
Wimmera 48 0 48 66 0 66 37.50 0.00 37.50
Mallee 124 12 136 150 11 161 20.97 -8.33 18.38
Loddon 362 5 367 469 41 510 29.56 720.00 38.96
Goulburn 476 12 488 432 29 461 -9.24 141.67 -5.53
Ovens-Murray 155 14 169 204 2 206 31.61 -85.71 21.89
East Gippsland 142 0 142 247 6 253 73.94 N/A 78.17
Gippsland 363 28 391 460 17 477 26.72 -39.29 21.99
Victoria 9,086 4,679 13,765 9,297 2,620 11,917 2.32 -44.01 -13.43

Dwelling Approvals Dwelling Approvals

Queensland September Quarter 2002 September Quarter 2003 Variance %

Total Total other Total Total Total other Total Total Total other Total
Regions houses residential residential houses residential residential houses residential residential
building building building

Brisbane 3,338 1,730 5,068 3,590 1,949 5,539 7.55 12.66 9.29
Moreton 2,033 930 2,963 1,856 1,596 3,452 -8.71 71.61 16.50
Wide Bay-Burnett 515 72 587 775 120 895 50.49 66.67 52.47
Darling Downs 312 31 343 351 50 401 12.50 61.29 16.91
South West 10 0 10 15 2 17 50.00 N/A 70.00
Fitzroy 268 25 293 239 90 329 -10.82 260.00 12.29
Central West 8 0 8 0 0 0 N/A 0.00 N/A
Mackay 200 35 235 284 45 329 42.00 28.57 40.00
Northern 297 96 393 408 81 489 37.37 -15.63 24.43
Far North 298 207 505 437 145 582 46.64 -29.95 15.25
North West 10 2 12 6 0 6 -40.00 N/A -50.00
Queensland 7,289 3,128 10,417 7,961 4,078 12,039 9.22 30.37 15.57
 Dwelling Approvals Dwelling Approvals
SA September Quarter 2002 September Quarter 2003 Variance %

Total Total other Total Total Total other Total Total Total other Total
Regions houses residential residential houses residential residential houses residential residential
building building building

Adelaide 1,571 311 1,882 1,505 395 1,900 -4.20 27.01 0.96
Outer Adelaide 464 12 476 520 14 534 12.07 16.67 12.18
Yorke and Lower North 106 8 114 111 2 113 4.72 -75.00 -0.88
Murray Lands 105 0 105 76 3 79 -27.62 N/A -24.76
South East 103 52 155 96 2 98 -6.80 -96.15 -36.77
Eyre 82 5 87 60 12 72 -26.83 140.00 -17.24
Northern 45 1 46 42 0 42 -6.67 N/A -8.70

South Australia 2,476 389 2,865 2,410 428 2,838 -2.67 10.03 -0.94

Dwelling Approvals Dwelling Approvals

WA September Quarter 2002 September Quarter 2003 Variance %

Total Total other Total Total Total other Total Total Total other Total
Regions houses residential residential houses residential residential houses residential residential
building building building

Perth 3,524 612 4,136 3,550 641 4,191 0.74 4.74 1.33
South West 790 164 954 928 153 1,081 17.47 -6.71 13.31
Lower Great Southern 101 8 109 121 2 123 19.80 -75.00 12.84
Upper Great Southern 16 2 18 11 0 11 -31.25 N/A -38.89
Midlands 74 8 82 97 0 97 31.08 N/A 18.29
South Eastern 51 13 64 46 0 46 -9.80 N/A -28.13
Central 67 20 87 61 3 64 -8.96 -85.00 -26.44
Pilbara 51 2 53 42 0 42 -17.65 N/A -20.75
Kimberley 67 5 72 53 6 59 -20.90 20.00 -18.06
Off-Shore Areas 12 0 12 0 0 0 -100.00 0.00 -100.00
Western Australia 4,753 834 5,587 4,909 805 5,714 3.28 -3.48 2.27

Dwelling Approvals Dwelling Approvals

Tasmania September Quarter 2002 September Quarter 2003 Variance %

Total Total other Total Total Total other Total Total Total other Total
Regions houses residential residential houses residential residential houses residential residential
building building building

Greater Hobart 262 6 268 302 40 342 15.27 566.67 27.61

Southern 60 0 60 77 0 77 28.33 0.00 28.33
Northern 123 8 131 174 19 193 41.46 137.50 47.33
Mersey-Lyell 74 0 74 124 4 128 67.57 N/A 72.97

Tasmania 519 14 533 677 63 740 30.44 350.00 38.84

Dwelling Approvals Dwelling Approvals

NT September Quarter 2002 September Quarter 2003 Variance %

Total Total other Total Total Total other Total Total Total other Total
Regions houses residential residential houses residential residential houses residential residential
building building building

Darwin 100 126 226 92 180 272 -8.00 42.86 20.35

Northern Territory - Bal 66 28 94 81 8 89 22.73 -71.43 -5.32
Northern Territory 166 154 320 173 188 361 4.22 22.08 12.81

Dwelling Approvals Dwelling Approvals

ACT September Quarter 2002 September Quarter 2003 Variance %

Total Total other Total Total Total other Total Total Total other Total
Regions houses residential residential houses residential residential houses residential residential
building building building

Canberra 466 621 1,087 413 267 680 -11.37 -57.00 -37.44
ACT - Bal 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 0.00
ACT 466 621 1,087 413 267 680 -11.37 -57.00 -37.44
 TecASSIST Tecadd a valuable member to your team

1800 811 222

The Service Based at the Boral Plasterboard’s Melbourne office, TecASSIST provides technical advice to
builders, architects, contractors, distributors, engineers, regulators and home owners
throughout Australia.
Our friendly team comprising Geoff, Len, Bernie and Danny are happy to assist with all your
needs. It doesn’t matter if you’re a do-it-yourselfer, contractor, architect or engineer, our team
can offer both practical and design input at all levels of the plasterboard industry.
TecASSIST has proved so popular that it has handled over 40,000 technical enquiries
relating to projects all over Australia. In fact, their reputation has spread so far that they
are now receiving an increasing number of calls from overseas.
Get your next project off on the right track by giving Geoff, Bernie or Danny a call.

The Team
The TecASSIST team of Geoff Saxton, Len Pimm,
Bernie Shalekoff and Danny Docherty represent over
200 years of practical and professional experience.
It covers disciplines ranging from architecture to
engineering, building to design, drafting to IT and
trades to business management.

When in doubt, ask!

Telephone: 1800 811 222 Facsimile: 03 9645 1812
Email: techdesk@plasterboard.boral.com.au

Sales Offices
Contact one of the following sales offices for the best
in plasterboard products, prices and service.

Location Telephone Facsimile Location Telephone Facsimile

QLD 733 Nudgee Rd Northgate 4013 (07) 3215 2244 (07) 3215 2299 ACT 7 Barrier St Fyshwick (02) 6280 4243 (02) 6280 5816
NSW 3 Thackeray St Camellia 2142 (02) 9638 0571 (02) 9638 5557 TAS 93 Albert Rd Moonah 7009 (03) 6278 9966 (03) 6278 9865
SA 119 Bedford St Gillman 5013 (08) 8240 8888 (08) 8341 1004 NT Cnr Coonawarra Rd & Mataram St (08) 8984 4484 (08) 8984 3778
VIC 676 Lorimer St Port Melbourne (03) 9214 2138 (03) 9646 1912 Winnellie 0820
WA 53 Attwell St Landsdale 6065 (08) 9400 2666 (08) 9302 2077 Export 676 Lorimer St Port Melbourne 3207 (03) 9214 2138 (03) 9646 1109

For more information on articles in this or any other issue of Boral for Builders:
Project ..............................................
• Fill in this coupon and fax it to: (03) 9645 1707
• or mail to: eBusiness Centre, Boral Plasterboard, Locked Bag 3, Port Melbourne, Vic 3207 Australia Value ..............................................
• or visit our website: www.boral.com.au
Please send information on: ¨ Noise reduction ¨ PartiWALL® ¨ EurekaWALL™ ¨ Insulation ¨ Ceiling Systems ¨ Other ...........
Name .................................................................................... Email ..................................................................... Telephone ......................................................
Address ....................................................................................................................... Postcode .......................... Facsimile ........................................................
Enquirer: ¨ Home Buyer ¨ Builder ¨ Plastering Contractor ¨ DIY Renovator ¨ Draftsperson ¨ Architect ¨ Student

14 www.boral.com.au