Doubled up 8x2 or a single 8x4?

[Ian H]

Is there any advantage/disadvantage of using either?

I need to double up some joists around a new opening this coming weekend, they stock the 8x2 and can get the 8x4 in for me on Thursday. There isn't much difference in the cost.

Thanks

 

[Doggit]

It'll be easier to manhandle the 8x2, and then bolt them together; more than acceptable.

 

[Ian H]

Thanks again Doggit!!

Daft thing was their 8x2 ends up at 44mm and they only do 50 and 100mm hangers.

I've seen 88mm ones online (with a big postage cost) or 91mm ones at screwfix.

If I use the doubled 8x2's and 91mm hanger, could I/would I put a 3mm spacer between the timbers to properly fill the hanger?

 

[Doggit]

Are these what you're after. https://www.randjbuildershardware.co.uk/buy/88mm-jiffy-joist-hanger_70.htm - not sure if these have the high postage costs though.

If you were to use 91mm wide hangers, you'd put the spacer on the outside of joists so that they fit together snugly, but a spacer isn't desperate, as you can nail one side of the joists into the beam you're hanging them from. The spacer will very likely split.

 

[Ian H]

I doubled up the 8x2's and used one of the M12 washers as a spacer. It worked well, thanks!!

 

[Doggit]

How many bolts did you use per beam, and how far apart were they. Obviously, 2 beams that are just side by side won't be as strong as a double width beam would be. Nice trick with the washers; very creative thinking.

 

[Ian H]

I used 4 bolts over 2.4mtrs and put some of those ninja star grippers between them.

I enjoy working with wood, much better than plasterboard!!

 

[Doggit]

I've given up using the star grippers, as I find they push the joists slightly apart, but apart from that small comment, I cannot fault your work 1990, so well done.