Non-Conforming LVL: The Implications for Builders

Non-Conforming LVL: The Implications for Builders

Non-conforming LVLs have recently made their way into the Australian building and construction industry and sold to builders and trades for structural use. These non-compliant LVLs are often cheaper yet do not meet the AS/NZS guidelines.

How do you know which LVLs are non-compliant? These LVL products might not be correctly stamped, third party tested, do not provide manufacturer’s details or product data and are often a lot cheaper than compliant products. Not only does the use of these LVLs cause safety concerns, but it also prevents a building from being certified under the NCC. This, as a result, presents a range of issues for the builder.

Implications for Builders

Non-conforming LVLs have been found to have quality deficiencies, misidentified wood sources, faulty glues, manufacturing flaws, and inadequate product testing.

Bowens spoke with Peter Board, General Manager – Sales & Marketing at Wesbeam, to find out the main implications for builders if they use non-compliant LVLs.

“While it is indeed the importer/seller’s duty to ensure that the LVL complies with AS/NZS 4357.0, the responsibility does not end with them. The nature of the construction supply chain means that accountability for using compliant materials extends through every link of this chain, from the manufacturer to the final installation on site.

There have been a number of examples of structural failures, whether it be delamination or wood rot/termite damage due to inadequate treatment.

In scenarios where non-compliant materials are discovered during or at the completion of the build, builders may face legal, financial, and potentially reputational consequences. If the importer or reseller of the non-compliant LVL becomes untraceable when issues arise, the builder is likely to bear the brunt of the legal implications, including the cost of litigation and potential penalties. This underscores the importance of due diligence at every stage of material selection and procurement.”

These potential issues can be avoided, however, as Peter further explains, the responsibility essentially lies with the builder.

“To mitigate these risks, it’s essential for builders to conduct thorough due diligence on their suppliers and to insist on transparency and compliance documentation for all construction materials. Builders should establish robust verification processes to ensure that all materials used, especially critical structural components like LVLs, comply with relevant standards and regulations.”

What is Bowens Doing to Help Builders?

Donovan Shortt, DC Inventory & Product Category Manager at Bowens states, “Bowens only purchases LVL products from suppliers that comply with the National Construction Code (NCC). They must also comply with process-based quality control requirements and any imported LVL is audited by a third party.”

For more information on LVL compliance, feel free to contact your Bowens Account Manager. You can also contact the Australian Building Codes Board or the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) to report any non-compliant LVLs suppliers and seek further information.