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13 April 2023: Property owners and inspection bodies have been given much needed breathing room thanks to an extension of the deadline for energy performance certificates (EPCs) for buildings. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) announced the three-year extension to 7 December 2025 on 25 November last year.

The mandatory requirement for EPCs applies to public buildings over 1 000 m² and private buildings over 2 000 m². The difference between Green Star or energy performance ratings from the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) and EPC is that the former is voluntary while the latter is mandatory, explains Martin Smith, Design Director, Expertise Leader – Building Services at leading consulting engineering and infrastructure advisory firm Zutari.

Zutari assists clients to compile the necessary documentation upfront. “More importantly, for a client to achieve a higher rating, we can analyse the building and services and suggest an appropriate upgrade schedule, for example. We can also monitor and keep track of the building’s performance, which means we embark on a long-term journey with the client.”

The current trend towards net zero rated buildings specifically looks at performance in terms of carbon, water, waste and ecology. “There is a fight for tenants at the moment, so if you can show that your building is more sustainable and you have the reporting in place to back this up, it adds that much more value to your asset in the marketplace,” points out Smith.

Zutari has long been a market leader in this niche sector and has already certified over a hundred Green Star projects. It assisted Growthpoint Properties to have its flagship Exxaro head office in Centurion achieve a 6 Star Green Star rating and to become the first building in South Africa to achieve a WELL certification by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI).

In addition, Zutari has partnered with 4Sight, a market leader in digital transformation, to implement a sustainable data strategy that allows near real-time tracking of all initiatives and building performance and to allow business to make data-driven business decisions.

The combination of 4Sight’s domain expertise in digital transformation and Zutari’s scientific and engineering knowledge creates a unique value proposition to help customers maximise the value of their assets, particularly in terms of optimising energy and water use and ultimately reduce their carbon footprints.

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“There is a fight for tenants at the moment, so if your building is more sustainable, it adds that much more value to your asset.” – Martin Smith, Design Director, Expertise Leader – Building Services, Zutari

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Twitter #Zutari has already certified over a hundred Green Star projects. We assisted Growthpoint Properties to have its flagship Exxaro head office in Centurion achieve a 6 Star Green Star rating. This is the first building in South Africa to achieve a WELL certification by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI).

The Master Builders Association (MBA) North says that five of its long-standing and substantial members went out of business during the course of 2022. Mohau Mphomela, Executive Director at MBA North, says that these bankruptcies indicate the severe headwinds that the industry is facing and have resulted in significant job losses.

The companies in liquidation or business rescue include Belo & Kies, GD Irons, Iguana, Giuricich Bros and Bartlett Construction.

“When established, stable businesses with good track records close their doors, you know there is something rotten in an industry. The MBA North has been raising certain issues over the course of many years, and we are now calling for all stakeholders to come together to resolve these issues,” he says. “We all know that the country desperately needs a major infrastructure renewal programme, and government has committed the funds, but if we lose our large contractors we simply won’t be able to meet demand.”

Mphomela highlights three issues that need to be addressed urgently:

Amendments to JBCC contracts. The Joint Building Contracts Committee (JBCC), a non-profit organisation representing building owners and developers, built environment professional consultants, and general and specialist contractors, created a set of building contract blueprints some 20 years ago. The JBCC contracts are used in the vast majority of projects and were drafted to ensure that every role-player was treated fairly. However, says Mphomela, it has become increasingly common for developers or their agents to insist on varying the terms of the contract to protect themselves, thus putting contractors at risk. Wayne Albertyn, Contracts Director at Gothic Construction, says that any alterations should be made using the same consultative process that gave rise to the contracts in the first place. “If one party unilaterally changes the contract, there is a clear conflict of interest, and we appeal to all stakeholders not to continue this practice, which puts contractors at a massive disadvantage,” he says. “If the contract does need to be changed, then an Ombud is needed to oversee it, or the MBA could play that role. JBCC contracts are the gold standard.”

Ceding of contractor’s lien on the building. The JBCC contract makes provision for the contractor to have a lien over the building to protect against non- or short-payment. A common contract alteration is for the developer or its agents, such the quantity surveyor or architect, to strike out this clause. Besides leaving the contractor exposed, it means that the contractor finds it ruinously expensive to get a payment guarantee from the banks as it does not have collateral – banks typically demand 200% collateral to provide a payment guarantee. Derek Wheals, MD of Tri-Star Construction, says that all of this is putting contractors at significant risk. He proposes that banks agree to provide a payment guarantee that reduces in line with the payments made to the contractor by the client, thus ensuring that the bank is never over-exposed.

Issuing of zero certificates. Another pernicious practice is the issuing of so-called zero certificates at the practical or final completion stages of a contract. In this way the contractor is forced to have to go to the courts to get its final payment, greatly affecting cash flow.

In summary, says Mphomela, the MBA North is urging all the stakeholders in the construction industry to come to the table to discuss these and other issues, and arrive at mutually satisfactory solutions. “The construction industry is one of the backbones of any economy, and ours has been eroding at a frightening rate. Part of the problem is that margins are so thin and jobs still so scarce that stakeholders seem to have forgotten that, in the final analysis, they exist in an ecosystem, and depend on each other to survive,” he says. “We came together to create the JBCC contracts, and we need the same spirit to solve our current challenges.”

12 April 2023: Highlighting talent, creativity, innovation and inspiration, the Corobrik Student Architecture Awards is all about jump-starting careers, building the industry and designing tomorrow. The finalists are selected from the eight major universities, based on the students’ Architectural Master’s theses, from the class of 2022. The finalists each receive a R10 000 prize and the opportunity to compete for the top title, plus a R70 000 grand prize, at a live event on Tuesday 16 May 2023.

“Our relationship with the awards goes back some 36 years, and it is one that has proved very enlightening for Corobrik. It has added a lot of depth and enriched the architectural profession by allowing young up-and-coming architects to express themselves and show the kinds of directions they believe architecture should be going in,” comments Corobrik CEO Nick Booth. Since 1986, the awards have placed 35 winners on the architectural map, both in leading practices as well as their own firms.

Melicia van Loggerenberg, University of Pretoria

Melicia says she feels honoured to represent the University of Pretoria. “I would like to thank Corobrik for providing a platform to take our projects beyond our respective establishments.”

Entitled ‘Environment as a Cognitive Prosthesis’, Melicia’s mini-dissertation highlights the lack of age-inclusive interventions in public and social environments, specifically pertaining to the growing elderly demographic.

A further critique of geriatric care architecture provides insight into the gaps in the discourse of which our failure to consider cognitive dependencies is the biggest shortcoming. The results of Melicia’s research serve as a guideline for future projects advocating against ageist urban environments, contributing to a knowledge source that we will soon not be able to design without.

For online publications only: Click here to view Melicia’s project – Melicia van Loggerenberg | Finalist 2022 (corobrik.co.za)

Mia Pulles, University of the Witwatersrand

“Architecture not only sculpturally defines the space we occupy on this beautiful planet, but it provides people with real, tactile opportunities to adapt, grow and live,” says Mia. Entitled ‘Igniting the Heart(h) : Resuscitating the Heritage of the Melville Koppies through Earth and Fire Craft Production’, Mia’s project engages with the conservation and resuscitation of the Melville Koppies site in Johannesburg.

It celebrates its ancient, richly-layered heritage with the design of a living museum, an artisanal pottery-making and iron-forging production space – crafts both deeply embedded in the site’s untold history.

For online publications only: Click here to view Mia’s project – Mia Pulles | Finalist 2022 (corobrik.co.za)

Katherine van Wyngaarden, University of Cape Town

“I am grateful to be part of this group with peers from across the country and to be given the chance to engage with their explorations,” says Katherine. She believes that architecture creates a sense of belonging, encourages interaction and provokes emotion.

Entitled ‘Playful architecture – Constructing Sociality’, her project explores themes of playful architecture and how activated, adaptable and dynamic spaces are created by embracing the inherent instability of social space. The project is situated within an imagined future fabric of District 6 in Cape Town, on a site with existing activities to be plugged into and reinforced.

For online publications only: Click here to view Katherine’s project – Katherine van Wyngaarden | Finalist 2022 (corobrik.co.za)

Ané Meyer, University of the Free State

“It actually still does not feel real,” comments Ané on being a regional winner. “I am extremely excited for the journey ahead and look forward to meeting so many great upcoming architects.”

Ané says architecture provides a deeper understanding of how design can create innovative solutions that impact communities and the environment. Her thesis is entitled ‘Ephemeral Skin: Towards a Reparational, Relational, and Respectful Engagement with the Temporal Environment’.

The design of an algae research and manufacturing institute at Hartbeespoort Dam focuses on permanence and temporality in nature and the built form, growing and decaying with the landscape. The building will partly disappear over time, leaving a public park after the threat posed by hazardous algae blooms and the subsequent need for algae research is no longer dominant.

For online publications only: Click here to view Ané’s project – Ané Meyer | Finalist 2022 (corobrik.co.za)

Luzuko Funda, Nelson Mandela University

Luzuko says the Corobrik Student Architecture Awards is a diverse representation of architecture in South Africa, with past winners setting a trend for innovation. “I am honoured to be a finalist, as I strive to make architecture accessible to all. I feel like I am already an inspiration for the next generation.”

Luzuko’s project, ‘The Design of Buildings for the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Fort Hare in East London’, aims to revitalise the city surrounding the campus. It creates an ‘edge building’ that interacts with the public realm, while slightly touching the natural landscape to preserve the natural edge.

The technical design looks at adapting the existing Old Miriam Makeba building on the site and using of modular systems as an architectural expression to create a sustainable building that fits the context.

For online publications only: Click here to view Luzuko’s project – Luzuko Funda | Finalist 2022 (corobrik.co.za)

Kreolin Lyle Naicker, University of KwaZulu-Natal

Kreolin says being a regional winner is “a proud moment in my life and makes me proud of the work I produced. I would like to thank Corobrik for allowing students to showcase their architectural designs and recognising their hard work throughout the year.”

Kreolin’s research, ‘An Exploration of Water Security through Architecture: Towards a Learning Centre in Durban’, aims to change our perception of water by means of a multi-sensory experience of the treatment process. The built and natural environment becomes a living system that demonstrates the water-cleaning process through an outdoor park with various bio-retention systems, allowing visitors to “(re)connect with nature”.

The design encapsulates a strong axis from the entrance to the harbour, with adjoining interactive learning spaces and seating areas to attract visitors, forming active and informal learning environments.

For online publications only: Click here to view Kreolin Lyle’s project – Kreolin Lyle Naicker | Finalist 2022 (corobrik.co.za)

Cindy Langa, University of Johannesburg

“I never imagined I would be in the running, let alone a finalist!” says Cindy. “I am happy about the platform Corobrik has provided to showcase my work.” Cindy has an abiding interest in public spaces, “the who, why, when and how public spaces have changed over time, especially given the history of South Africa.”

Her project, ‘Broken Narratives and Blurred Recollections: [Re]Constructing Sharpeville’s Broken Memorial Landscape’, critiques the memorialisation of the Sharpeville massacre. “It proves how the memory of the massacre has been vandalised – narratively and physically – pre- and post-democracy. I argue that the blatant erasure of these narratives is an act of violence against the victims, and the surviving community of Sharpeville,” says Cindy.

For online publications only: Click here to view Cindy’s project – Cindy Langa | Finalist 2022 (corobrik.co.za)

Francois Luc Groenewald, Tshwane University of Technology

Having his research recognised by his peers, lecturers and Corobrik “is truly an honour, and having the opportunity to share it publicly is more than the heart of any designer can dream for,” says Francois.

He says that “the idea of commemoration in South Africa is probably one of the most special areas that architectural research design can poke its nose into.” Entitled ‘The Design of an Exploratorium at the Swartkop Air Force Base, Valhalla, South Africa’, sheds light on the unrecognised and forgotten narratives of our aviation history.

The thesis reconstructs and reactivates a pre-apartheid, post-WW1 conservation site dedicated for aviation commemoration into an appropriate architectural solution by rescripting the programme, use and aviation heritage resources.

For online publications only: Click here to view Francois Luc’s project – Francois Luc Groenewald | Finalist 2022 (corobrik.co.za)

“We are very excited to celebrate the 36^th edition of the awards. It has been an incredibly exciting and richly fulfilling journey,” highlights Corobrik Marketing Support Manager Thilo Sidambaram, who herself has been involved with the awards for over two decades.

To view the winning regional projects and to watch the LIVE Awards on the 16^th of May visit: www.studentawards.corobrik.co.za.

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Most South Africans don’t have to deal with extreme winter conditions like snow and blizzards, but that doesn’t mean that the colder temperatures don’t take a toll on our properties.

You’ll know that the harsh South African sun beats down on exteriors, fading that magnificent paint job — but have you thought about winter conditions like wind, rain and cold? Drastic variations in temperature, from hot to cold or vice versa, can cause surfaces, and the paint coating them, to expand and contract. If you don’t use high-quality, durable exterior paint, these fluctuations can even cause the paint to chip, crack or peel off.

Plascon’s iconic Micatex paint is a UV-resistant water-based coating enhanced with a unique combination of special-grade mica for stretch and marble for strength that provides its signature WeatherTough Protection^TM. The paint film of Plascon Micatex is two times thicker than that of conventional paints, and 23% tougher than a leading competitor, making it an ideal choice for protecting exterior walls from the elements.

South Africa has a diverse climate that requires diverse approaches to winter-proofing. Winter temperatures may reach freezing point at high altitudes, such as in cities like Johannesburg, Pretoria, Bloemfontein, Polokwane and Rustenburg, while coastal regions like KwaZulu-Natal have milder winter temperatures – although even that coastal province has areas that often see snowfall during winter, such as the Drakensberg. This is where Micatex’s renowned durability and long-lasting guarantee step in to save the day.

In the Western Cape, winter rain and wind are likely to be more concerning than the cold. Here, Micatex protects your exterior surfaces from breakdowns caused by these climatic conditions, as it improves the water resistance of walls to prevent dampness caused by constant rain. In 2021, Plascon added the Polycell Fine Crack Filler to the Micatex formula, giving it even more built-in toughness and protection. Thanks to this new formula, Micatex securely covers all hairline cracks which ultimately prevents damp on exterior walls.

In addition to this revolutionary improvement, Plascon also recently upped their original 13-year guarantee to a 15-year guarantee.

With Micatex, your walls will maintain that freshly painted appearance despite tough South African weather conditions and the wear-and-tear of everyday living — standing strong against many harsh seasons to come.

Leading international bamboo composite building materials manufacturer Eva-Last are building for a greener future faster than its primary raw material bamboo takes to replenish!

The company supplies sustainable composite decking, cladding, architectural beams and railing made from recycled plastic combined with fast-growing bamboo to over 32 countries around the world. 

Demand is anticipated to accelerate even further as more and more designers, architects and specifiers begin to understand and accept bamboo plastic composites (BPC) as a viable construction alternative.

In 2021, the construction composite market was valued at $51.5bn and is expected to balloon to $72.5bn in the next five years. This is driven by increasing demand for lightweight, high strength construction components, coupled with the ongoing need to reduce maintenance costs and replacement, and adopt greener building materials.

“As awareness and appreciation of the positive impact of Eva-Last on sustainability and the environment grows, we expect to organically increase our market share and expand our distribution network,” says Nathan Chapman, VP Sales & Marketing and Co-Founder of Eva-Last.

GREEN AT HEART

Eva-Last’s proprietary production processes provide stylish bamboo composite building materials to beautify the built environment whilst simultaneously preserving the natural one.

Their commitment to responsible consumption and production sees them continuously developing eco-friendly products that both reduce deforestation and actively eliminate the plastic waste plaguing the planet. 

From the outset in 2006, the company decided to manufacture their first range of decking products using composite materials including recycled plastic. 

“We felt strongly about the need to reduce our use of wood and protect our natural environment, and so our first range of European wood plastic composite (WPC) decking was born,” recalls Marc Minne, CEO and Co-Founder of Eva-Last.

“Inspired by Nature, Designed for Life”, Eva-Last’s range of composite decking – Pioneer, Apex, Infinity, and Eva-Tech – provide the look and feel of timber decking, without denuding the earth of trees or our precious oxygen supply. More than 2,358 rainforests have been saved to date, while over 71,2 tons of plastic are recycled annually.

“Our vision is to provide sustainable building materials that enhance both the built and natural environment for current AND future generations,” says Minne.

“We aim to do that in the most environmentally responsible way and minimise our carbon footprint while we’re at it,” he added.

In a move towards clean, renewable energy, the company installed over 22 858 photovoltaic (PV) solar panels at their international factory. The panels generate over 44 000 KWh to power their energy-intensive extrusion process, saving over 2 000 tons of CO₂ emissions daily.

RENEWABLES ENGINEERED TO PERFORM

“We’re always on the lookout for renewable inputs or new technologies that can improve our operations and offerings, while protecting the environment wholistically,” explains Minne.

When Eva-Last discovered the outstanding sustainability credentials of bamboo coupled with its superior performance characteristics, the company quickly switched to producing bamboo plastic composite (BPC) rather than wood plastic composite (WPC).

Bamboo grows fifty times faster than hardwood trees and releases 35% more oxygen, while boasting less than 2% of waste compared to only a dismal 13% utilisation of wood and added-value timber.

As a grass that requires no pesticides or harmful chemical fertilisers to grow, bamboo replenishes itself within 3-5 years. With over 1 250 species worldwide it is an abundant resource, in comparison to the diminishing timber species such as Cedarwood that can take up to 50 years to regrow.

“The concept of fibres as a reinforcing material for construction is nothing new,” assures Minne.

Bamboo fibre’s inherent tensile strength – the resistance to being pulled apart – is higher than steel’s and can withstand compression better than concrete. Its natural thermal properties avoid temperature extremes in either extremely hot or cold climates. Providing an abundant and replenishable reinforcing raw material with exceptional performance characteristics – when polymerised with recycled plastic, bamboo composites outperform natural timber. The composites offer high impact resistance and superior dimensional stability, limited moisture absorption, biological resistance to insect or environmental degradation, as well as added strength and extended durability. Longer lifespans mean less replacement.

SHOOTS OF GREEN

Eva-Last constantly champion R&D to drive expansion and product development.

The versatility and profusion of recycled plastic – known as the seventh resource – coupled with bamboo’s performance characteristics make for unlimited product development opportunities.

“Over the years, we’ve refined our products and processes as new technologies or efficiencies emerged,” comments Chapman. 

Their popular decorative cladding range, VistaClad features an innovative clip-lock technology that the composite board profiles clip into for an instant, lightweight installation.  Their innovative hollow-core Lifespan hybrid aluminium architectural beams create dramatic architectural features such as pergolas, porticoes and screening to easily transform exteriors.

“Not only have customers come to appreciate our ranges’ advanced technology and convenience, but we’re also able to customise colourways and finishes to suit regional preferences,” adds Chapman.

From the fire-rated Apex decking range – particularly pertinent in areas where the risk of fire is a concern – to water-resistant, insulating cladding for wetter environments in the latest fashionable finishes such as Carbonised Osage, Charred Cedar or Swedish Oak, Eva-Last pairs innovation with customisation to meet the specific demands of different territories. 

With Sustainability, Innovation, Accountability and Customer Excellence as core values, Eva-Last are poised for unprecedented growth and their green shoots will no doubt blossom in years to come.

Leading consulting engineering and infrastructure advisory firm Zutari has been recognised as a top employer by the Momentum Metropolitan GradStar Students’ Choice Awards 2022. It clinched first place in the Professional Services: Consulting Engineering category, the second time it has received this accolade. This follows the company onboarding 90 graduates in 2023 in celebration of its 90^th anniversary last year.

“The intention is to say to the world that there is opportunity and talent across the business in Africa and the Middle East. We just need to embrace it and provide the platform for growth, particularly to the experienced hires and graduates coming through,” says Zutari Chief People Officer Dean Naidoo.

All 90 graduates are currently permanent employees, confirms Zutari Learning Experience Leader Shamenthree Naidoo. “It is a huge commitment. That is how much we believe in Zutari the brand. It also shows how much we believe in our industry. For the graduates who have joined us, it is a prime opportunity for them to grow and learn from the best of the best. Ultimately our support will allow them to achieve their professional registration.”

“It has been an amazing experience,” says Madeleine Venter. “There is a lot of anxiety attached to your first job and stepping out into the grown-up world. From the moment I walked into Zutari, I immediately felt like I belonged.” Barely a few weeks in and Madeleine has already been exposed to three projects. “That is something you can only find in a company like this. Zutari cares so much about its culture, employees and codes and ethics. That is what makes it a great company.”

Yaseera Vally, who joined the Rosebank office team as a member of the structural team, comments that while the induction equips the graduates for what lies ahead, the process does not end there. “Zutari has put together an amazing programme to make you feel comfortable in where you are and what to do. The company is invested in your career, wants to know where you see yourself in five to ten years, what work you enjoy doing and what your strengths and weaknesses are.”

“It is a testament to what Zutari wants to be and what we will continue to do. It is a showcase of why we really love the brand and that we believe in South Africa and in the industry. Our graduates have progression and early-on exposure in terms of engineering and professional services,” says Shamenthree.

Commenting on the GradStar Students’ Choice Awards 2022, she says that while the legacy companies are 90 years old, Zutari as a brand is only two years’ old. “The award shows that the brand is gaining recognition and momentum, which is fantastic for us from a youth development perspective.”

Dean highlights that, in addition to the graduate programme, Zutari is also taking on an additional 45 interns in March. “We cast the net wider to see what other talent and skills are in the South African market or maybe even in the Middle East.”

He concludes: “We consider ourselves a multinational practice and an inclusive employer. There is opportunity to embrace a diversity of skills and talents. When we talk about longevity and creating an impact, one has to understand that if you work for Zutari, you are connected to the purpose of the organisation and what we do. Our business is not about engineering. Our business is about people. It is about how we impact our communities and how we create further opportunities on the continent and in the places and in the environments we work in.”

“Isover Springs, a plant located in South Africa and part of the Saint-Gobain Group, has recently undergone a major focus on improving its business operations, with a particular emphasis on water conservation. As a company committed to sustainable building practices and reducing its environmental impact, Saint-Gobain recognizes the importance of preserving our planet’s natural resources, especially when it comes to water.

Isover Springs’ journey towards water conservation began with a comprehensive mapping of water pipes on a site map and the installation of water meters in areas that consume the most water. By monitoring incoming water to the plant and comparing it to internal usage, the team identified areas that required attention.

Over a period of three months, Isover Springs’ efforts resulted in a 40% reduction in water consumption, resulting in a saving of millions of liters of water per month. This amounts to tens of millions of liters of water saved per year. Assuming an average daily water usage of 100 liters per person per day, the water saved could provide for hundreds of thousands of people for one year.

In addition to these impressive results, the changes made by Isover Springs have also allowed the plant to run without a municipal water supply for up to 48 hours. This means that the plant is now more resilient to potential water supply disruptions and can continue to operate even in the event of a water shortage. This achievement highlights the benefits of sustainable practices, not just for the environment, but for the long-term viability of businesses and communities.

The success of Isover Springs’ water conservation journey is a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainability and to its core values. By focusing on the Sustainable Point of water conservation, Isover Springs was able to make a significant impact on its water usage, thereby reducing its environmental impact and contributing towards a better, greener future.

At Saint-Gobain Isover, we believe that sustainability is not just a buzzword, but a way of life. We are committed to promoting sustainable building practices and reducing our carbon footprint, and Isover Springs’ success story is a prime example of how these values can be put into action. We are proud of Isover Springs’ achievements and look forward to seeing more success stories in the future as we continue to work towards a better, greener world.”

Persistently high loadshedding is extracting a heavy price from the construction industry, severely constraining its economic growth and job creation potential, warns industry expert Roelof van den Berg, the CEO of Gap Infrastructure Corporation.

Pointing to the urgency of the situation, South Africa had already experienced more than 1,393 hours or 58 days of rolling blackouts within the first two months of 2023 alone. Given that 2022 saw a total 3,776 hours or 157 days of national loadshedding, this year is likely to set another record for blackouts, causing unprecedented and expensive delays to vital construction and infrastructure work.

“The ongoing energy crisis is significantly driving up costs while hampering the smooth roll-out of construction and infrastructure projects, preventing the industry from reaching its full potential as an economic contributor,” says van den Berg.

“This said, by resolving the country’s power constraints, we could easily see the industry double in size and create hundreds or even thousands of new jobs. In fact, the industry could quickly employ more than one in every ten people in the country, especially given its capacity to employ low- and semi-skilled workers.”

Demonstrating the economic potential of the construction industry, Statistics South Africa figures reveal that at the end of 2019, prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was already contributing 4% to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, latest statistics reveal that at the end of September 2022, the industry represented just 2.4% of GDP.

“The pandemic took a heavy toll on construction companies by placing a number of projects on pause. But now that the economy is opening up again, loadshedding has constrained the industry’s recovery. To maximise the industry’s performance and productivity, we urgently need to address the burden and expense of loadshedding.”

Impact of loadshedding on the industry

Van den Berg explains that the construction industry relies heavily on electricity to power machinery and lights. Loadshedding has thus disrupted work schedules, caused delays, and forced contractors to reschedule their projects, and damaged electrical equipment through power surges and voltage spikes.

Additionally, the rising cost of electricity has resulted in increased building costs, while the supply and upkeep of generators can also result in higher costs and increased pollution. Together, these factors mean significantly higher costs and a loss of productivity.

“Finally, the instability and unreliability of power caused by loadshedding has decreased investor confidence and hindered businesses throughout value chains, including suppliers, sub-contractors, and manufacturers who all provide crucial inputs into the industry,” he adds.

“By contrast, improved and ongoing construction projects have enormous potential to attract increased foreign investment, improve living standards, and boost the country’s economy.

“A strong construction sector also impacts positively on related industries, such as manufacturing and engineering, further boosting the economy. So, by prioritising investment in the construction industry, South Africa can set itself up for long-term prosperity.

“Ultimately, it’s critical that we find a solution to the energy crisis as soon as possible. We need to take action to ensure the stability of the industry and to protect the country’s economic interests,” he concludes.

This year’s Energy Indaba has created a buzz in the energy sector. As an annual event held in South Africa that brings together various stakeholders together to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, the key themes typically focus on issues such as energy policy, renewable energy, energy efficiency, energy security, and access to energy. During the three-day Africa Energy Indaba conference, energy experts and ministers urged for prompt implementation of suggestions made by stakeholders. With over 600 million Africans lacking access to electricity, they also appealed for greater collaboration between African nations to address the energy crisis.

“Without innovation, we cannot solve the energy crisis in Africa. We need to leverage modern technologies and business models to accelerate the deployment of clean and sustainable energy solutions across the continent”.

– Dr. Elham Ibrahim, the former Commissioner for Energy and Infrastructure at the African Union Commission.

It’s time to innovate!

Modern structural solutions like non-welded modular support systems can play an important role in supporting the energy transition in African countries by enabling the private and public sectors to start using alternative energies. One key benefit of these support systems is their flexibility and adaptability, which makes them well-suited for use in renewable energy projects that may require frequent adjustments or modifications. Additionally, modular support systems can be assembled quickly and easily without the need for welding or specialised tools, reducing both the time and cost required for installation which is particularly valuable in time-sensitive projects in the energy sector.

Sikla in South Africa takes pride in offering siFramo, a fully non-welded steelwork support system that enables modular construction of frames and structures. With a proven track record in diverse construction applications worldwide, Sikla in South Africa is committed to providing its clients with a reliable and versatile solution for their steelwork support needs. By utilising these modern structural solutions, African countries can more easily and affordably incorporate alternative energy sources like solar, wind, nuclear, hydroelectric and gas-to-power into their energy mix. This not only helps to address the energy crisis by providing more reliable and sustainable energy sources, but also has the potential to drive economic growth and job creation in the renewable energy sector.

Modern construction solutions like siFramo can be a valuable tool for supporting the energy transition in African countries by enabling the adoption of alternative energy sources and helping to build a more sustainable and resilient energy system.

As the custodians of quality and technical excellence locally and pan-Africa, the Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) has highlighted the trend of the increasing innovative use of steel cladding to enhance the architectural ornamentation of buildings in South Africa – and the myriad benefits of this durable, energy-saving and environmentally-friendly building option.

Steel cladding has always been the dominant material for industrial buildings, albeit purely functional rather than aesthetic – however, it is increasingly being installed as both roof and side cladding on upmarket residential and commercial buildings across the country, explains SAISC CEO Amanuel Gebremeskel.

The SAISC is one of just six similar industry professional bodies globally which is strategically positioned to track and understand key steel sector trends.

Gebremeskel explains the rising trend: “Architects are really delving into what can be done with steel cladding materials in a way that propels the industry towards (much-needed) energy conservation, environmental sustainability and improved aesthetics of buildings – and entire built environments – for the benefit of local communities and businesses, as well as the entire steel value chain.”

Aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits

Gebremeskel notes that South Africa has already been ahead of other global players for decades, as on-site steel rolling for cladding purposes was a local innovation back in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

“More recently, sky rolling has been introduced to facilitate the rolling of exceptionally long, single lengths of cladding directly onto the roofs of structures. A local profiler recently achieved the world record for a single length of 240m.”

However, Gebremeskel points out that architects and developers have now embraced both the aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits of steel cladding, including its energy-saving fire-resistant properties.

“Developers have discovered that architects can make a big difference with cladding from a visual perspective, which is increasingly regarded as being worth the extra cost. Industrial buildings previously, for example, involved minimal design work, and were built largely to be functional ‘boxes’. The innovative use of cladding makes them more distinctive and aesthetically pleasing. From an energy-saving perspective, the use of insulated metal cladding is still in its infancy in South Africa in this regard, but we are seeing examples coming through, which is an encouraging sign and a good value-add to the use of cladding for purely aesthetic reasons,” he says.

Gebremeskel adds that this trend was evident at the 2022 Steel Awards, which showcased several uses of cladding across categories, including in homes, offices and warehouses.

“It is exciting to see architects increasingly using significant amounts of cladding in innovative ways in the design and construction of large warehouses, a trend which has been evident for some five to six years,” says Gebremeskel.

One such project, a citrus processing warehouse located in the Eastern Cape, which used steel cladding in its roofing, won the Popular Choice vote at the Steel Awards event.  Due to the unique combination of steel cladding and vents this building does not require any artificial heating or cooling, saving energy costs and cutting carbon emissions. Another high-profile project was 108 Albert Road, Woodstock: an urban renewal development in Cape Town, which involved the stripping of the existing external brick walling,  the addition of two storeys of lightweight steel framing – and then enclosing the entire structure with metal cladding.

“The design plan was to add additional storeys above the existing office space, re-cladding the structure and unifying the design through fenestration and balcony cut-outs. Of note is that all the brick walls in this project were converted to light steel frame studs with steel cladding. This greatly assisted in the reduction of the building weight, allowing for the additional storeys, while not adversely affecting the seismic behaviour of the building. Seismic load is directly proportional to weight – and Cape Town sits in a moderate seismic zone. The transformation of the building lifted the tone of the entire neighbourhood which was previously quite depressed,” he explains.

He adds that the use of insulated panels also presents a significant growth opportunity and that these are already being used in the local steel construction sector.

“Another opportunity lies in energy conversion methods that could use solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to create cladding. There is significant research and development being invested into this arena, and it is anticipated to become more cost-effective over the next few years,” he says.

Overall, Gebremeskel believes the market outlook for steel cladding is “positive” in the short- to-medium term.

From aesthetics to fire prevention

“South Africa is experiencing growth in the number of data centres being developed around the country. These require the construction of large buildings for which metal cladding is generally used. The same trend is evident regarding the need to build automated warehouses for imported goods. The prospects for cladding and large buildings are accordingly positive,” he says.

Steel cladding also presents the steel industry globally with interesting research opportunities on the use of these materials in informal settlements – as various forms of cladding have  traditionally been a fire prevention or retardation measure.

Gebremeskel explains how the SAISC’s fire research centre at the University of Stellenbosch has attracted global attention for its research into the use of fire preventing metal cladding panels: “The SAISC’s fire research centre at Stellenbosch university is involved in investigations into cladding systems that can actually slow down or stop the progression of fires in informal settlements. The strategic use of aesthetically-pleasing, safe metal cladding could also assist in the refurbishment of buildings in the Johannesburg central business district (CBD).  The relationship between  fires and cladding is a major and much-needed research topic around the world,” he points out.

With the rapid trend towards a preference for steel cladding, Dennis White, Executive Director of the Southern African Metal Cladding and Roofing Association (SAMCRA) a sub-association of the SAISC – has for the past ten years been developing local product specifications and standards to ensure product quality.

Specifications and certification

“Our technical industry experts have been working on product specifications and certification to create a reliable testing regime for cladding properties, such as wind and gravity-induced loads, and to develop technical standards for products and the installation thereof. There were previously only outdated, adopted basic standards for cladding – but now as an industry we have been able to contribute to this vital technical aspect of product certification,” he says.

Gebremeskel adds that these new technical specifications will improve knowledge of quality among steel sector professionals, helping to raise standards and root out the use of cladding materials which are substandard or non-compliant. This is particularly relevant in the design of cladding for informal and low-cost developments where houses are typically built close together and therefore present a greater fire risk.

“We will be hosting a series of online and in-person technical question and answer (Q and A) sessions and seminars of interest to engineers, architects and other steel construction industry professionals, to highlight the technical aspects of quality and safety regarding cladding and fasteners and the new specifications in 2023.

In summary, the use of steel cladding will continue to be used extensively bringing with it impressive energy-efficiency, safety and aesthetic improvements to the built environment – provided the correct standards of safety and quality are adhered to,” he concludes.