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Carpentry & Joinery

Mid 1800’s cottage with loose ceiling joists to loft floor

Anonymous user 15/03/2024 - 2.54 PM

I am renovating this wonderful old cottage prior to moving in, so I want to get things right first time. All the ceilings were hanging down so I have stripped back all lathe & plaster off the ceilings. On the first floor ceiling which is also the loft floor I notice a lot of joists are loose. The main oak beams are solid and it looks like the joists were made to sit allowing movement and they are not nailed or wedged. I also notice there is no noggins between the joists. The joists are at 400mm centres. The joists look original. The question is do I nail the joists to prevent movement, wedge them or simply replace them all (not a preferred choice as I would like to keep as many original features as possible). Should I add noggins? Thanks in advance for your advice

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2 Answers

Apex Lofts and Construction

Rating: 5 out of 5

Worthing

Hi there. I would suggest that you inspect each joist for possible dry rot and replace any that may be needed. I would also speak to a structural engineer to ensure that the old floor joists are adequate enough the take the weight of another habitable space above. Once joists are replaced if needed. I would then Split the span of the joists in half and install noggings to prevent future movement and bowing. I would also nail the joists to the existing oak beams Cheers Josh APEX LOFT CONVERSIONS

Answered24 February 2020

Anonymous user

As stated previously it is ideal to inspect each and every one but ultimately I would recommend a replacement resulting in a longer lasting solution as it seems it is old an possibly not up to regulations.I would recommend a compitant tradesman take a look.I would be happy to help and give a no obligation quote.

Answered26 February 2020