Gov’t maintains ban on steel- timber house construction method

Government has maintained its ban on the steel- timber concrete composite building method  effected in 2022.

This method comprises of timber joists supported by steel beams wherebuilders combine timber and concrete to lay a slab, which is different from the use of steel and concrete.

Addressing journalists in Kampala on Thursday, Works and Transport Minister, Gen Katumba Wamala said following the ban, the National Building Review Board to put in place a technical committee with a view of analyzing it and coming up with guidelines if found viable.

He said after two years, the committee’s findings show the method is risky.

“The technical committee from their analysis, fine element modelling, laboratory testing of materials and field tests on existing STC sites, confirmed the flaws and risks in the method of construction,” Gen Katumba said.

He noted that the technical committee found that there is lack of adequate engineering basis, lack of  composite action and lack of consideration for lateral resistance.

The  committee also found out that this building method lacks hogging moment for reinforcement in the slabs, very poor weld connection, lacks engineered connections, lack of specification in timber grade and properties in use and availability of poor timber on the open market.

“We are convinced this method as marketed by its proponents deployed in the market with its variations is generally unsafe and not viable from a structural point of view. It therefore remains prohibited.”

The minister said anyone found using this method will be breaking the law, noting that buildings using this method risk being demolished.

Gen Katumba however clarified that use of steel, timber, and concrete in structures can be successful when following scientifically tested guidelines and core engineering principles.

“Professionals engaged by developers are responsible for ensuring a safe design, satisfying themselves that it works at all limit states, and issuing a certificate of good structural practice. Supervision during construction is essential and should ideally be conducted by the same person who designed the structure. It is the developer’s responsibility to submit safe designs for approval.”

He warned building committees against  approving building plans without design reports, drawings showing connection details, sizing of structural elements, specifications for materials and geotechnical investigation reports.