Polokwane-based MarTek Roofing recently completed the roofing on a development consisting of 450 low-cost government developed homes in the Seshego Ext 78 suburb of Polokwane.
One of the houses MarTech is working on. Image credit: MarTechSee
MarTek Roofing CC specialises in the design, cost-effective manufacturing, and erection of pre-fabricated timber and Ultra-Span roof trusses. The roofing component of the project is on track for a mid-September completion.
Owner Sakkie Maritz describes the ‘new low-cost spec’ as being light gauge steel trusses (no more timber). “Being a MiTek licensed fabricator we quote on ultra-span trusses with sundries and consumables. The only timber we still use is 38 x 38mm treated wall plate.
“The trusses as well as sundries are ordered ‘cut -to -size’. We do the truss assembly in the factory with templates for accuracy. Then the roof kit with sundries is delivered to site. MarTek Roofing also do the erection on site, because of the complexity and intricate tools you need to execute the fit.”
Maritz explains that the NHBRC wanted full technical design reports on the steel as well as the design and software testing and approval, even though the NHBRC head office had approved the product in 2008. “We said, you know what, let’s comply,” says Maritz. “Transport and storage are additional challenges, but after the first few houses, we got the machine oiled and it is running smoothly (not without hiccups, but okay).”
A substantial expense arose from the need for special tools and equipment. A decent hammer costs R400 with 3c for a nail. With ‘USP’ you need a R7 000 drill machine and 34c a screw in every worker’s hand before we can fit. Consequently, the tool invoice came in at R180 000.
