The Timber Trade Federation (TTF) and the Flat Roofing Alliance (FRA) have joined forces to clarify the situation regarding the use of Brazilian elliottii plywood.
The move follows a warning issued by the FRA that a large shipment of Brazilian elliottii pine available in the UK has been bonded with water sensitive adhesive so it de-laminates when it comes into contact with moisture.
Following a meeting of the two groups, the TTF issued a statement to members saying that if plywood is used in structural applications in accordance with BS 5268 part 2, then only approved types of plywood can be used.
And, it says, as far as it is aware, very few, Brazilian elliottii pine plywood producers have such approval.
However, Glenn Salt of Professional Panel Products Ltd said there was a new TECO-certified structural elliottii plywood tested to PS 1-95 on the market from Brazil’s Guararapes Plywood mill which meets all the requirements.
He said: ‘We 100% support the initiative that the TTF is instigating and recognise the need for all parts of the trade to be aware that structural plywood must be used when it is specified.
‘Merchants play a key role because they are the ones who supply the end consumer and there is a need for more education at shop floor level as to the technical properties of plywood.’
Guararapes and Madeireira Thomasi SA are believed to be the only two Brazilian producers with Teco certification, making them qualify for grade stamping under Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-95.
