17th August 2010

Just to keep you all update on progress so far on the section I have taken down.

All the blockwork has been completed despite all the rain!  I have then bedded a damp proof course (DPC) over the blocks and then bedded a timber wall straps on top of that secured by tension straps.

Before proceeding any further I had to install all the joists hangers in that section.  Because I want the timber frame to sit tight on the wall plate and I will be top wrapping the joist hangers I had to chisel out small sections (only a couple of mm deep) to accept the top wrap of the joist hangers.

Once all this had been done I began to create the timber frames of the walls.  I would prefer to make all the stud walls first then move them into situ but because it is only me I have had to make a very basic frame (just the sides, top and bottom) then move it into position.  Luckily I had my mum to help me with this so once they were in position and plumb I quickly screwed temporary sections of timber to brace it all together.

Once all the 3 of the frames are up (the section I am doing is a big U shape so there are two side walls and one gable end) I began to add the rest of the studs.  Since I am putting them in after the frames are up I cant screw through the bottom rail so the studs have to be dovetail screwed into position with some waterproof flue applied first.  The top of the studs are easy, they can be screwed straight through the top rail (even if it is a bit dicey going up their on a ladder).

So this is where I am up to now - I have the rest of the studs to fit around the circumference.  The ceiling joists (which are held by joist hangers) and once of the windows to put it.  Once I get all the ceiling joists in it will hold the frame solid.

Sorry peeps but no piccies yet - still looking for software for my phone to upload them.  So if you know of any Linux software for a Samsung DHG900 - let me know.