This alert provides guidance from the Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia (EWPAA) and Timber Queensland on what constitutes acceptable practice.
Why this matters
- Oversized holes reduce the structural integrity of buildings.
- Proactive inspections have identified repeated instances across Queensland.
- Following EWPAA guidance will help maintain compliance.
Acceptable penetrations in ply bracing panels
According to the EWPAA:
- A neat hole (not overcut) up to 100 mm x 100 mm may be cut within 100 mm of vertical and top edges, and 200 mm of the bottom edge of the panel.
- Multiple 100 mm x 100 mm holes are allowable within this envelope, but centres must be at least 600 mm apart.
- One hole up to 400 mm x 400 mm is acceptable if located between studs, framed with nogging, and fixed as required for top and bottom plates.
Helpful links
- QBCC Standards and Tolerance Guide
- HIA article: Using AS 1684 for timber framing
- Wood Solutions: AS 1684 - Code Compliance Overview
Further information
- For more assistance, contact QBCC here
Disclaimer: The information in this building alert is for educational purposes only. Although the QBCC endeavours to provide accurate and current information, it does not guarantee that the information communicated in this building alert will continue to be accurate and current in the future. The QBCC is not liable for any claims arising from incorrect or out-of-date information or any decisions or actions made based on the information contained in this building alert. The information conveyed in this building alert does not constitute legal or other specialist advice and should not be relied upon as such.
