Performance Requirements for Durability - Costs

When deciding upon durability performance requirements, initial material and finishing costs must be balanced against long term maintenance and/or repair and replacement costs. Long term performance will vary with the quality of material used, particularly in high hazard situations. If the design life is short, material quality may not be a significant factor. Where long term performance with minimal maintenance is considered important, attention should be given to:

• careful detailing (eliminating moisture, allowance for shrinkage, etc.)
• use of good quality corrosion-resistant fastenings
• high natural durability or appropriate preservation
• application of quality finishing systems.

Reference: Timber Datafile P4 – Timber – Design for Durability of the NAFI Timber Manual.

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Timber Research Unit
Department of Architecture
University of Tasmania