What to use for packing between joist and new beam

[flash74]

Hi All,

Any advice welcomed, removed a wall supporting a 5.7m span (stud walls above) and replaced with timber beam. The orginal joists widths all vary, so some all the joists are not bearing their load on the beam - max gap is around 5mm have previously packed with wood but very minor movement when heavy load is placed above. Orginally the wall was packed with slate to accomodate the width difference of the joists.

If anyone know what material would be best to pack the gap with it would be appreciated, also is it best to slightly jackup the joists, pack them and then let the joist relax on to the packing to ensure full contact with the joist and beam? Or is it best to pack and let the beam lower overtime on the beam.

Wish they cut them all the same size yrs ago.......

Cheers F

 

[noseall]

Hi All,

removed a wall supporting a 5.7m span (stud walls above) and replaced with timber beam.

Wow, how big is the timber beam?

 

[flash74]

Hi noseall,

Its 8 x 3, and is 3 meters long, helping to support the 5.7m span of the joists above, there are also the oringal herringbone struts between the joists.

 

[alittlerespect]

An option is to use tempered hardboard, a lot easier to work with than slate and has plenty of compressive strength. You could even use a bit of glue and stick the hardboard to the underside of the joist - normal pva adhesive will do the job!

You should not need to lift the joists, if the packing is tight, get a hammer and timber block and tap the hardboard into place.

Regards

 

[noseall]

We often use cement slate for packers.

 

[flash74]

Cheers guys for the advice