Bearers

[theborg1]

Hi all,

I am currently renovating my house and the builder (carpenter) started work on the project last week. It has only been just under two weeks and I can already understand why people say you build once and you never want to go through it again.

However, my question relates to the bearers in the new extension. The engineering drawings require the bearers in the extended part of the house to be F5 90x70 KDRP. The builder has nailed together two lengths of F5 90X45 KDRP (not laminated or glued together but nailed). Can anyone out there advise if this is acceptable practice ie the same result or better.

Thanks in advance.

theborg:confused:

[ChrisH]

It is OK according to my Timber Framing Manual. You have to comply with the required nail spacing.

The minimum nail diameter is 2.8mm.

You nail at spacings equivalent to twice the depth of the timber, eg for your 2/90x45mm, you would space the nails every 180mm. The nails are to be staggered, one up, one down. Plus two additional nails at points of load on the bearer, and two extra nails at points of support for the bearer.

It is called vertical nail lamination.

Chris

[theborg1]

Thanks Chris.

Much appreciate your advice.

Have a great weekend.

Theborg1