Is this required?

[onionsa]

I’m having a sort out in the loft and putting some boards down and wondering if I can remove this beam. The old water tank was on the platform which was on this beam but that has now been removed. I can’t think of a reason for it other than lazy builders (as seen in many other places around the house) and I would like it gone if possible.

Thanks.

 

[ReJect]

Is it nailed or screwed to any of the joists?
If not then it isn’t providing support

 

[onionsa]

Is it nailed or screwed to any of the joists?
If not then it isn’t providing support

Yes it is nailed to The joists, just.

 

[ReJect]

Yes it is nailed to The joists, just.

Difficult to judge. Somebody has gone to a lot of bother to have it supported through the wall.
If joints are just to be used as just for light storage and boarding over for safe walking, then hopefully ok to remove it

 

[^woody^]

No, it's a binder supporting the ceiling joists.

 

[onionsa]

No, it's a binder supporting the ceiling joists.

I guess that’s important then...

 

[mattylad]

Go the opposite way and add more, then floor on top of them.
That way you can have a thicker amount of insulation underneath the boards.

 

[tony1851]

I guess that’s important then...

Only if you don't want the ceiling bowing.