66 | T T Kelly Deeks Innovative timber frame and truss fabrication One of PFT’s defining strengths lies in its dedication to training and workforce development. Prenail Frames and Trusses (PFT) is pioneering advancements in timber frame and truss fabrication and advocating for industry-wide recognition of the expertise involved in frame and truss detailing for manufacture. Founded in the early 1970s, PFT has grown under the leadership of Philip and Sharlene Broadley into a leading force in timber frame and truss design and manufacturing. From rustic scissor trusses to cutting-edge prefabrication technology, the company has continuously evolved, embracing precision engineering and software-driven solutions to ensure efficiency, compliance, and superior craftsmanship. Working alongside award-winning builders and architects, PFT has distinguished itself through its ability to adapt to design changes on-site, thanks to a highly skilled team of builders, structural detailers, and fabricators. This agility and problem-solving expertise make PFT a standout in an industry where precision and flexibility are crucial. One of PFT’s defining strengths lies in its dedication to training and workforce development. “We are a small business, but we are responsible for training the most frame and truss professionals in the Greater Wellington region,” says Sharlene. Through in-house cadetships and collaboration with the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO), PFT has played a pivotal role in ensuring employees achieve recognised certifications and diplomas. These efforts BUILDING SUPPLIES Prenail Frames & Trusses supported the introduction of essential industry qualifications, including the New Zealand Certificate in Frame and Truss Manufacturing (Level 3), Frame and Truss Detailing (Level 4), and the New Zealand Diploma in Timber Structure Detailing (Level 5). Despite the critical role of frame and truss detailing, industry misconceptions persist. “Many assume architects and engineers are solely responsible for building designs, overlooking the substantial engineering and design work that goes into prefabricated timber structures,” says Phil. With 80% of construction projects relying on frame and truss detailing, the need for regulatory recognition has never been greater. A recent legal determination (2023-008) confirmed roof truss design falls under restricted building work, highlighting the necessity for qualified professionals in this field. However, the industry still faces a shortage of trained professionals to meet demand. “There are not enough engineers to peer review and approve current timber frame and truss volumes in New Zealand in a timely manner, and they do not have access to the proprietary software to check the load path distribution is correct.” Phil, a qualified Timber Structure Detailer and Licensed Building Practitioner (Design 2), has positioned PFT as one of the few companies fully prepared to meet these new regulatory challenges. His work with the Frame & Truss Manufacturers Association (FTMA) and BCITO has been instrumental in shaping the qualification framework, ensuring future generations of professionals receive proper training and recognition. PFT’s industry expertise has been recognized through its involvement in award-winning projects, including those honoured at the 2024 Wairarapa/Wellington Master Builders Awards. The company supplied frame and truss solutions for Planit Construction, which won the Supreme Award and later the National Supreme Award, as well as for Kellahan Builders, which earned a Gold Award in its category. “Our capabilities and experience in designing and manufacturing complex projects are second to none,” says Sharlene. “We aim to make things easier for builders by delivering high-quality, efficient designs and ensuring seamless supply to site.” PFT is one of the few manufacturers in New Zealand that can provide a Certificate of Design Works Memorandum by a licensed building practitioner in Design 2. As regulatory expectations evolve, the company remains prepared to meet any industry requirements that may arise, ensuring clients receive certified and assured structural solutions. With over 45 years in business, including 23 under the Broadleys’ leadership, PFT continues to champion excellence in timber frame and truss design. By engaging early in the design process, the company helps architects and builders optimise structural integrity while reducing the need for costly steel components in many cases. This pro active approach not only enhances cost- effectiveness but also ensures compliance with the New Zealand Building Code. WTFRD-2291-04-25 CALL BCITOTODAY 0800 4 BCITO 422 486 QUALIFICATIONS THAT FITWHATYOU DO TRAIN AN APPRENTICE Help them learn the skills and become qualified. ALREADY HAVE THE EXPERIENCE? Get skills reco nised with a formal qualification. GROWYOUR BUSINESS THROUGH TRAINING Trainin an apprentice is an investment in our business and the industr. WORK SMARTER Have our team work smarter, learn up-to-date skills.
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