Materials used on school buildings

This page links to information about types of materials used in schools. Installing the right types of glazing, joinery, roofing, and floor coverings to certain specifications will improve their long term performance and help to protect the health and safety of people at the school.

Level of compliance Main audience Other

Inform

  • Boards
  • Proprietors
  • Architects and designers
  • Principals and tumuaki
  • Project managers
  • Product providers
  • Building contractors

More reading on these topics is necessary as they involve mandatory actions. The Ministry has design requirements for some types of materials used in schools, there are certain health and safety requirements also involved.

Glass

Glass can be a hazard at schools if it breaks. Boards need to manage this hazard, by knowing the correct type of glass to install and the standards you need to comply with.

Glass installed in schools

CCA treated timber

Timber treated with Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) is a potential health risk because it contains arsenic. Boards need to manage this risk, especially in the playground.

Chromated copper arsenate (CCA) treated timber in schools

Joinery and hardware

The school environment can be tough on joinery and hardware. Broken joinery or hardware can be a hazard, which boards must manage. 

Joinery and hardware installed in schools

Roofing materials

When your school is working on a new building, replacing a roof or reviewing the safety of your existing roofs, boards need to consider a range of factors that will help you choose the most suitable type of roofing material. 

Roofing materials for school buildings

Floor coverings

The Ministry does not set requirements for floor coverings. Boards can decide which floor coverings will work best in the different areas of your school.

Floor coverings for schools

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