Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
top plate. Using a sharp pencil, mark the face of the studs at the sides of the opening and
move the lintel out of the way (see Figure 6.15).
It is often necessary for the lintel to carry through to the next stud or to have double
studs at the openings. Consult with your building consultant as to the requirements of
your job and the most appropriate method of approaching this. You will now cut down
into the face of the stud on the line to the depth of the rip that was previously cut into the
end of the stud (see Figure 6.16). If you are using a circular saw be aware that the piece of
timber to come out will probably jam the saw once the cut is complete.
Figure 6.16
Completed checkout in the stud ready for the installation of the lintel
Look along the lintel to determine any bow in the timber and then fit the lintel into
the opening with any bow facing to the top of the wall. If the lintel is put in with the bow
down, the lintel is likely to continue to bow down when load is put on it, resulting in a
dip in the top of the wall. Ensure that the lintel fits snugly into the space and that it is not
forcing the top plate away from the top of the studs. Fix the lintel in place using two
75 mm nails through the face of the lintel into the door or window studs. Fix the top
plate to the lintel with 75 mm nails, at least one every 600 mm.
Braces for timber framed walls
The final stage in the construction of the wall is fit a wall brace. The wall brace is to be
fitted as close as possible to a 45-degree angle up the wall. It is to be set into the face of
the wall and be fixed onto the top and bottom plates. Metal angle braces have taken over
from timber braces, as they are more cost effective and quicker to fit. Regardless of the
material used, if the wall is to be lined with timber or plasterboard, it is important that
the brace does not sit proud on the face of the wall, as this will result in a lump in the
finished wall.
