Bluelime Home Design

Thames Innovation Center

2 Veridion Way
Erith
Kent
DA18 4AL

Project Location
3 Colyton Close
Welling
DA16 1EW

Structural Specification
Reference number: BL-23031-01-001
Revision: 001
Date: March 2023

Prepared For
Homeowner
3 Colyton Close
Welling
DA16 1EW

Prepared By
Amir Alwan, CEng MIStructE MSc BEng (Hons)

© 2023 Bluelime Home Design | All rights reserved | Bluelime Retail Ltd / Bluelime Home Design LLP |
Thames Innovation Center, Veridion Way, 2 Veridion Park, Erith, Kent, DA18 4AL Page 1 of 11
Contents
1.01 General .................................................................................................................................... 3
1.02 Tolerances ............................................................................................................................... 3
1.03 Materials & Workmanship ........................................................................................................ 3
1.04 Health & Safety ........................................................................................................................ 4
1.05 Party Wall Awards & Building Regulations Approval ............................................................... 4
1.06 Temporary Works & Stability ................................................................................................... 4
1.07 Demolition ................................................................................................................................ 5
1.08 Excavating & Filling ................................................................................................................. 5
1.09 Foundations ............................................................................................................................. 6
1.10 In-Situ Concrete ....................................................................................................................... 7
1.11 Masonry ................................................................................................................................... 7
1.12 Lintels....................................................................................................................................... 8
1.13 Structural Timber ..................................................................................................................... 8
1.14 Steelwork ............................................................................................................................... 10

Bluelime Home Design Structural Specification Page 2 of 11

1.01 GENERAL unsuitable to support the proposed works, or at
variance from the details shown on the drawings.
1.01.01 This specification is to be read with
Preliminaries/General Conditions of main 1.01.09 Holes or chases must not be cut through any
structural members without the written consent of
contract.
the Structural Engineer.
1.01.02 Do not scale from any drawings. The Contractor
1.01.10 The Contractor is to ensure that the Building
is to check all dimensions on site and confirm this
Control Officer is notified to carry out his
with the Architect (Supervising Officer), before
carrying out any works or ordering any structural inspections prior to concreting new foundations,
elements to be manufactured. slabs etc., and prior to covering up any structural
elements.
1.01.03 This specification together with the Structural
Engineer’s drawings are to be read in conjunction 1.01.11 Fixings for staircases, balustrades etc., which
with the Architect’s and all other Consultant’s have been designed by others, are to be installed
in accordance with the manufacturer’s design,
drawings and specifications, which should be
used to verify layout, setting out, levels, finishes details, and specifications.
etc. Any discrepancies are to be reported to the 1.01.12 The Contractor must be familiar with ‘The
Architect, Engineer and other Consultant’s Building Regulations 2010’, 2015 CDM
immediately, before proceeding with any part of
‘Construction (Design and Management)
the works.
Regulations’ and ‘NHBC Standards 2016’ and
must ensure that all works follow these
1.01.04 Only Contractors competent in this type of works
and conversant with current standards of Health documents.
and Safety and Good Building Practice must 1.01.13 The Contractor may only vary from the details
undertake to construct this project. Neither the shown on the drawings, following the written
periodic site visits of the Building Control Officer consent of the Structural Engineer. Should the
nor the periodic site visits of the Structural
Contractor carry out any work that differs from
Engineer shall in any way relieve the Contractor the details shown on our drawings without our
or any sub-contractors of their responsibility to written consent, he is doing so at his own risk
carry out the works in compliance with the
and liability.
relevant contract documents and any subsequent
instructions issued by the Structural Engineer. 1.01.14 Nothing included or omitted from this outline
specification will relieve the Contractor of his duty
1.01.05 An asbestos survey in accordance with HSE
to carry out the works in accordance with current
Guidance ‘HSG 264 Asbestos: The survey guide’ standards of safety and good building practice.
is to be carried out by a qualified company prior
to the commencement of any works on site,
including opening up works or soft strip-outs, in
order to safeguard the Health and Safety of all 1.02 TOLERANCES
the people involved on this project.
1.02.01 All tolerances are to be agreed with the Architect,
1.01.06 Setting out dimensions and details are shown on and the Contractor will be responsible for
the Architect’s drawings. These may be ensuring that sufficient tolerances are provided
complemented with additional information shown and integrated throughout all elements of the
on the Structural Engineers drawings. If in doubt works.
the Contractor must confirm with both the
Architect and the Structural Engineer prior to 1.02.02 The Contractor is to take account of tolerances
proceeding any further with the construction. detailed elsewhere in the drawings, appended
specifications, European and British Standards
1.01.07 The Contractor must familiarise himself with our when complying with the above clause.
drawings and specifications and must ensure that
he is confident in interpreting the existing
structure and our structural intentions for this
project. If in doubt, please consult us. The 1.03 MATERIALS & WORKMANSHIP
Contractor is to expose all existing steelwork and
principle points of support and excavate trial pits 1.03.01 All articles, materials and goods shall be new and
to ensure adequacy of the existing structure of good quality, suitable for the required purpose
where necessary. and shall conform to the appropriate European
and British Standard where such exists. Where
1.01.08 The Contractor is to inform the Architect and references to the above are made it shall be
Structural Engineer if the existing fabric, including inferred that the latest edition applies, together
foundations, has been found to be inadequate, with subsequent amendments, unless otherwise
specified.

Bluelime Home Design Structural Specification Page 3 of 11

1.03.02 The Contractor shall refer to relevant sections of (Also, the Contractor and Client must be aware
this specification for the materials involved in the that all works carried out prior to Building Control
project. Approval, are at their own risk.

1.04 HEALTH & SAFETY 1.06 TEMPORARY WORKS & STABILITY

1.04.01 All work must be carried out by a competent 1.06.01 The Contractor is entirely responsible for
Contractor with relevant experience in the works maintaining the stability of all existing buildings
and who is familiar with the current 2015 CDM and structures, within and adjacent to the works,
‘Construction (Design and Management) and of all the works from the date of possession
Regulations’. The Contractor must comply with of the site until practical completion of the works.
the requirements of the CDM Regulations. All temporary works to be in accordance with ‘BS
5975: 2008 Code of Practice for temporary works
1.04.02 The Principal Contractor must comply with his procedures and the permissible stress design of
duties as set out in Regulation 13 of the CDM false work’.
Regulations 2015. He shall as required prepare a
Construction Phase Health and Safety Plan 1.06.02 The Contractor shall design, install, and maintain
(CPP) as soon as practicable prior to setting up all necessary temporary works and shall advise
the construction site and updated, reviewed, and both the Architect and Structural Engineer at
revised so it continues to be sufficient and least ten working days from commencement of
relevant. Failure to comply can result in criminal the works, of his proposals for temporary
prosecution of both the Client and Principal supports and sequence of construction for the
Contractor by the HSE. works. These proposals shall be supported by
design calculations, drawings, and method
1.04.03 The Contractor is to carry out the works with full statements, on the sequence of installation of the
regard to the Structural Engineer’s, Architect’s, temporary supports and execution of the works.
Principle Designer and Service Engineer’s Risk
Assessments. 1.06.03 Under no circumstances will any structural
alterations be carried out prior to the Structural
1.04.04 The Contractor is to inform the Engineer Engineer commenting on the Contractors
immediately and in writing if any unforeseen temporary works proposals.
circumstances are to affect the scope of the
works. 1.06.04 The design of temporary works shall include an
assessment of the loads to be resisted and is to
1.04.05 Everyone involved in this project (including be undertaken by a suitable qualified and
workers) has a duty to report instances where experienced Chartered Structural Engineer. Due
they or others are working in a way that puts regard shall be given to lateral stability of the
them or anyone else in danger, as required under structure as well as to the support of vertical
regulation 8(5) of the Construction (Design and loads.
Management) Regulations 2015. Any such
instances must be reported to the person in 1.06.05 The Contractor is to familiarise himself with the
control of the work. building and its structure so that he is aware of
the nature and magnitude of the loads to be
supported.
1.05 PARTY WALL AWARDS & BUILDING 1.06.06 Care is to be taken to ensure that temporary
REGULATIONS APPROVAL supports remain adequately seated and tightened
so that support to the structure above is not
1.05.01 Where applicable, the Contractor is to ensure allowed to yield during building operations.
that Party Wall awards are in place prior to the
commencement of any work adjacent to any 1.06.07 The Contractor is to ensure that temporarily
party wall, as required under The Party Wall Act propped structure is adequately wedged, pinned,
1996. or packed off the permanent works prior to
removal of any temporary supports.
The Contractor is to ensure that Building
Regulations Approval has been obtained for the 1.06.08 The Contractor shall ensure that any completed
intended works, prior to the commencement of or partially completed structural element is not
any works. If the Contractor has been instructed overloaded. Details of design loads may be
by the Client to proceed with the works prior to obtained from the Structural Engineer.
Building Regulations approval having been
obtained, he is responsible in advising the client 1.06.09 All temporary works to support the sides of
that additional costs may be incurred due to excavations for new foundations shall be
additional requirements from Building Control.

Bluelime Home Design Structural Specification Page 4 of 11

 designed in accordance with BS 8000: 2014 and 1.07.08 Demolition is to be undertaken in a manner that
any other approved documents. avoids excessive noise and nuisance.

1.06.10 Existing foundations are not to be undermined at 1.07.09 Protect site operatives and the public from
any time. Therefore, excavations shall in no hazards associated with vibration, dangerous
circumstances encroach below the bottom near fumes and dust arising during the works.
side of any existing footing. Seek the advice from
the Structural Engineer if in doubt. 1.07.10 All work is to be well watered to minimise dust.
All material is to be carted away from site as
soon as practicable.
1.07 DEMOLITION 1.07.11 An asbestos survey is to be carried out prior to
any demolition to identify if asbestos is present. If
1.07.01 Demolition is to be carried out to and in asbestos has been discovered the Contractor
accordance with BS 6187: 2011 and Health and must ensure that it is not disturbed. An approved
Safety Executive Guidance Notes GS 29/1, 3 and Asbestos removal Company is to be contracted
4. Operatives must be appropriately skilled and to remove the asbestos safely and in accordance
experienced to for the type of work and hold with The Health & Safety Executive
relevant CITB Certificates of Competence. Site requirements.
staff responsible for supervision and control of
the work is to be experienced in the assessment 1.07.12 Adequate precautions are to be taken to prevent
of the risks involved and in the methods of fire or explosion caused by gas or vapour.
deconstruction/demolition to be used.
1.07.13 Illuminate and protect dangerous openings and
1.07.02 Work carried out to/or affecting new and/or keep safe outside working hours.
existing services is to be carried out in
accordance with the byelaw and/or regulations of 1.07.14 On completion of the demolition leave the site in
the relevant statutory authorities. a tidy condition by clearing away all debris.

1.07.03 Services that are affected by

deconstruction/demolition work are to be located 1.08 EXCAVATING & FILLING
and their positions marked. Arrange with the
appropriate authorities for main services to be
1.08.01 Inspect all available drawings and make
located and marked. Markings are to be in
enquiries about existing services on site. Verify
accordance with National Joint Utilities Group
positions and depth of all services before
“Guidelines” on the positioning and colour coding
commencement of work on site. Services that are
of underground utilities “apparatus”.
being retained during any phase of the works are
1.07.04 Arrange with the appropriate authorities for to be protected.
disconnection of services and removal of fittings
1.08.02 Before starting work verify with the Architect
and equipment owned by those authorities prior
which existing fences, gates, walls, paved areas,
to starting deconstruction / demolition.
trees, shrubs, hedges, bushes, and any other site
1.07.05 Locate, disconnect, and seal disused foul and features are to be removed. Materials arising are
surface water drains. Regarding live foul and to be removed from site. Contractor must ensure
surface water drains, these together with that no pruning or damage is carried out to a tree
associated manholes, inspection chambers, with a ‘Tree Preservation Order’. If in doubt
gullies, vent pipes and fittings are to be protected always consult the Local Authority.
and left clean and in working order at completion
1.08.03 Workmanship for excavating to comply with BS
of deconstruction/demolition work. Any damage
8000: 2014.
arising from deconstruction/demolition work is to
be made good. 1.08.04 Where an excavation encroaches below the
underside of the nearest formation level of
1.07.06 If damage to services that are to be retained has
another proposed higher excavation, all work
been caused due to deconstruction/demolition
within the lower excavation and backfilling thereto
work, Demolition Contractor must give notice,
must be completed before the higher excavation
and notify relevant service authorities and/or
is made.
owner/occupier. Contractor must complete
repairs to services as directed, and to the 1.08.05 Make advance arrangements with the Building
satisfaction of the service authority or owner. Control officer and/or Architect for inspection of
foundations and trenches requested at the
1.07.07 Demolition is to be undertaken in the reverse
beginning of the works.
order of construction. No part of the structure is
to be left in an unsupported condition overnight or 1.08.06 Remove the last 150mm of excavations just
for long periods. before inspection. Trim excavations to required

Bluelime Home Design Structural Specification Page 5 of 11

 profiles and levels and remove all loose existing external ground level unless noted
materials. otherwise on drawings.)

1.08.07 Unless otherwise instructed, seal formations 1.09.03 New foundations have been designed to impose
within four hours of inspection with concrete or a safe bearing pressure of 100kN/m² on clay
another specified fill. approximately 1000mm below final external
ground level, unless shown otherwise on the
1.08.08 Backfill any excavations for foundations taken drawings. The Contractor is to ensure that all
deeper than required with lean mix concrete. new foundations bear a minimum of 150mm into
Excavations other than foundations taken deeper firm clay. Where foundations are sited within the
than required may be backfilled with well-graded
granular material. 1.09.04 influence zone of trees they are to be founded at
depths recommended in Chapter 4.2 ‘Building
1.08.09 Hardcore to be granular material, free from near trees’ of the NHBC Standards.
harmful matter, well graded, passing a 75mm BS
sieve and one of the following: 1.09.05 Also, where poor ground conditions are
encountered or the Building Control Officer
a) Crushed concrete, brick, or tile, free from requests amendments to the foundations
old plaster; indicated on the drawings, the Structural
Engineer is to be notified immediately.
b) Gravel.
1.09.06 Foundations sited within a zone 1.25 x mature
1.08.10 Spread and level both backfilling and general tree height for high water demand trees, 0.75 x
filling in layers not exceeding 150mm and mature tree height for moderate water demand
thoroughly compact each layer with a vibratory trees and 0.50 x mature tree height for low water
roller, vibrating plate compactor, vibro-tamper, demand trees which are to remain or to be
power rammer or other suitable means removed, or over trees after removal, are to be
appropriate to the area being worked. protected against clay heave as follows:
1.08.11 Hardcore underground bearing concrete slabs to a) Trench Fill Foundations
be as above and not less than 150mm thick,
unless noted otherwise on the drawings. b) Provide compressible material against
Excavate extra material as necessary. Increase inside face of all external wall foundations
thickness of hardcore as necessary to make up greater than 1.5m deep to give a 35mm
levels from stripped site levels to underside of void (75mm thick claymaster or similar
slabs. approved). The compressible material is
to be positioned 500mm above the
1.08.12 Surfaces over hardcore to receive sheet overlays bottom of the foundation.
or concrete to be blinded with sufficient sand or
fine gravel to fill interstices and provide a close 1.09.07 Where construction joints in trench fill
smooth surface (50mm min thickness), unless foundations are unavoidable, they should not be
noted otherwise on the drawings. Permissible positioned near a return in the foundation.
deviations on surface level, to be +0 -15mm. Construction joints should be formed using
minimum 2 No. 150 deep x 100 wide shear keys
1.08.13 Minimum void under suspended ground floors to across width of footing at 1m maximum vertical
be 225mm for pre-cast concrete and 300mm for centres.
timber floors. Suspended in-situ concrete floors
shall be cast over a suitable void former to 1.09.08 Where new foundations have been specified to
provide a void of 225mm under the slab, unless be deeper than adjacent existing foundations, the
noted otherwise on the drawings. Void to be new foundations must be stepped up to the
ventilated in accordance with the Architects founding level of the shallower existing
details. foundation. Stepping up of the new foundation to
be carried out in increments of not more than
500mm in height and 1000mm in length.
1.09 FOUNDATIONS
1.09.09 When new foundations are close to trees existing
tree roots to be protected in accordance with BS
1.09.01 Materials and workmanship to comply with BS 5837:2005 “Guide for trees in relation to
8004 or BS EN 1997 (EC7). construction”.
1.09.02 Foundations are to be cast to the profiles 1.09.10 The Contractor is to ensure that the Building
indicated on the drawings. They are to be cast Control Officer is notified for his inspection of the
symmetrically about piers, stanchions, or walls, bottom of all foundations prior to concreting.
unless noted otherwise on the drawings.
(Founding depth to be minimum 1000mm below

Bluelime Home Design Structural Specification Page 6 of 11

1.10 IN-SITU CONCRETE are to be provided by the Contractor as
necessary to maintain the specified cover.
1.10.01 Materials and Workmanship are to comply with
BS 8110 (or BS EN1992 (EC2): the National 1.10.12 Unless noted otherwise on drawings, all
reinforcement is to be lapped 50d (where d is
Structural Concrete Specification (NSCS) by
BCSA/SCI, and in accordance with the Structural diameter of the smaller bar).
Specification.) 1.10.13 The rate of sampling for compressive testing of
concrete is to be agreed with the Structural
1.10.02 Concrete for new mass concrete foundations is to
be designated FN02 mix to BS 8500-2 made with Engineer prior to commencement of any concrete
sulphate resisting cement. works.

1.10.03 Concrete for reinforced concrete structures, 1.10.14 Use mechanical vibration to fully compact
including suspended ground floor slabs, is to be concrete for mass concrete foundations and all
designated mix RC40 to BS 8500-2. reinforced concrete structural elements. Compact
concrete to full depth (until air bubbles cease to
1.10.04 Concrete for the encasement of internal steel appear on the top surface), especially around
beams and for padstones is to be RC25 to BS reinforcement, cast-in accessories, into corners
8500-2 with 10mm maximum aggregate. For of formwork and at joints.
encasement of external and below dpc steel
beams and columns use RC30 to BS 8500-2 with 1.10.15 Before placing structural concrete (not blinding)
sulphate resisting cement with 10 mm maximum on hardcore or other absorbent substrates lay
polythene sheet of 1000 microns. Lap edges
aggregate.
150mm. This is not a DPM - see architect’s
1.10.05 Ready mix concrete is to be used unless details for this.
otherwise allowed by the Structural Engineer.
This must be obtained from a plant that holds a
current Certificate of Accreditation under the 1.11 MASONRY
Quality Scheme for Ready Mix Concrete. Details
of cement type, aggregate grading, and sources,
1.11.01 Workmanship is to comply generally with BS
with chloride and sulphate content of mixes to be
5628 Parts 1 & 3 and BS EN 1996. Brickwork to
submitted to the Structural Engineer for his
be to BS EN 771-1. Blockwork to be to BS EN
approval prior to ordering any concrete.
771-3&4.
1.10.06 The use of site mixed concrete for structural
1.11.02 All masonry below DPC is to be class B
elements may only be used following the written
engineering bricks, set in 1:3 mortar with SRPC
approval of the Structural Engineer. Batching and
or as noted otherwise on the drawings.
mixing equipment will need to comply with BS
1305 and BS 4251. 1.11.03 New facing brickwork below DPC is to be
minimum FZ durability to bricks BS EN 771 set in
1.10.07 The Contractor is responsible for the design and
1:3 mortar with SRPC, unless noted otherwise on
installation of all formworks. Design and striking
the drawings.
of the formwork are to be in accordance with BS
8110 and BS EN 1992. 1.11.04 New brickwork above DPC is to be a minimum
FZ durability to BS EN 771 and class 3 clay
1.10.08 Do not place concrete when the ambient air
bricks (20 N/mm²) set in 1:1:5 to 6 mortar, unless
temperature is less than 5°C.
noted otherwise on the drawings.
1.10.09 All holes shall be formed, and all inserts cast in at
1.11.05 New loadbearing blockwork above DPC to be
the time of pouring concrete. No part of the
100mm thick 7.3N/mm² Hemelite blocks by
concrete works shall be drilled or cut away
Topblock (1500kg/m³) set in 1:1:5 to 6 mortar,
without the approval of the Structural Engineer.
unless noted otherwise on the drawings.
1.10.10 Reinforcement shall be:
1.11.06 New nonloadbearing blockwork above DPC to be
a) Deformed bars to BS 4449, or BS 4461, 100 mm thick 3.6N/mm² Thermalite standard
grade 500 (high yield), prefix H on blocks (750kg/m³) set in 1:1:5 to 6 mortar, unless
drawings and schedules. noted otherwise on the drawings.

b) Mesh to BS 4483. 1.11.07 New facing brickwork above DPC for

freestanding garden walls is to be minimum FZ
1.10.11 Reinforcement shall be fixed adequately using durability bricks to BS EN 771 set in 1: ½ : 4 to
tying wire or steel clips. Concrete cover is to be 4½ mortar.
as specified on the drawings. Chairs and spacers
1.11.08 Brickwork and blockwork are to be laid properly
bonded as agreed with the Architect and fully

Bluelime Home Design Structural Specification Page 7 of 11

 bonded into existing work or as specified 1.11.18 Movement joints in facing brickwork are to be
otherwise on the drawings. All perpends must be MIN 12mm in width and formed by building in
fully filled with mortar. ’Aerofil’ joint filler by Servicised Ltd, as the works
proceed ensuring no projections into cavities. In
1.11.09 All masonry walls and internal partitions should joints to be pointed with sealant, position filler.
be fully bonded or tied together. Either block
bond by toothing every alternate course or tie 1.11.19 accurately at the recommended distance from the
with expanded metal or equivalent at 225mm face of wall. Leave joints open for as long as
vertical centres. possible before sealing with appropriate sealant
to Architects’ specification.
1.11.10 Do not lay masonry when the ambient air
temperature is less than 5°C. 1.11.20 All resin anchors used to be ‘Hilti’ anchors. Resin
anchors to be installed as per ‘Hilti’ technical
1.11.11 Also, at horizontal edges of openings i.e., bottom literature. When installing resin anchors ensure
of windows, top of doors/windows, additional ties that anchors are installed in the centre of the
at 300mm horizontal centres are to be provided brick or block.
225mm from the edge.

1.11.12 Embedment of ties to be minimum 65mm, into

each masonry leaf. Additional ties may be 1.12 LINTELS
needed to positively restrain cavity insulation,
subject to manufacturer’s requirements. 1.12.01 Pre-stressed concrete lintels are to be to BS
8110: Part 1: 1997: Section 4; BS EN 845 Part 2:
1.11.13 Where new openings are to be formed in an 2003; BS EN 206 and BS 8500 and Prestressing
existing cavity wall remedial Hilti stainless steel wire to BS 5892 by ‘Naylor’ or similar. Sizes and
HRR resin/resin ties need to be installed 225mm types are as indicated on the drawings. End
from the edge at 225mm vertical and 300mm bearing lengths are to be at least 175mm on new
horizontal centres around door/window openings. masonry and 250mm on existing masonry,
unless noted otherwise on the drawings.
1.11.14 Carry up work with no portion or section of wall
more than 1.2m above another at any time, 1.12.02 Galvanised steel lintels are to be to BS 5977:
raking back between levels. Do not carry up work Part 2 and BS EN 845 by Catnic. Sizes and types
higher than 1.5m in one day. are as indicated on drawings. End bearing
lengths are to be at least 175mm on new
1.11.15 Where pinning up to existing soffits is required, masonry and 225mm on existing masonry,
completely fill the joint at the top of load-bearing unless noted otherwise on the drawings.
walls with 1:3 cement/sharp sand dry pack
mortar, well rammed into position using 1.12.03 Stainless steel lintels are to be to BS5977: Part 2
temporary shuttering. If pinning to underside of and BS EN 845 by Catnic. Sizes and types are
existing timber lintels removes timber lintel brick as indicated on drawings. End bearing lengths
up to underside of existing masonry and follow are to be at least 175mm on new masonry and
with dry packing. 250mm on existing masonry, unless noted
otherwise on the drawings.
1.11.16 Spacing of movement joints in brickwork and
block work are not to exceed 12.0m and 6.0m 1.12.04 Grade 304 stainless steel is to be used generally.
(6.0m and 3.0m from a corner), respectively. If for However, for marine environments Grade 316 to
any reason movement joints are to exceed the be used instead, unless noted otherwise on the
lengths indicated above, stainless steel drawings.
SBF35W60 Brickforce bed joint reinforcement by
BRC, shall be provided at 450mm vertical centres 1.12.05 The Contractor shall obtain the Structural
to both leaves of external cavity walls as Engineer’s written consent, prior to
indicated on the drawings. Position of movement commencement of the work, to the use of lintels
joints in masonry walls is entirely the Architect’s by alternative manufacturers to those listed
responsibility. The Contractor must agree with above.
the Architect the position of the movement joints
prior to commencement of any masonry 1.12.06 Cavity trays and DPC's around all openings in
construction. external walls are to be to Architect's details.

1.11.17 Provide stainless steel bed joint reinforcement,

3.5mm wire Brickforce (SBF35W60) by BRC, at
1.13 STRUCTURAL TIMBER
225 and 450mm vertical centres above external
doors and above and below windows. Bed joint
reinforcement to extent 900mm minimum past 1.13.01 New timber in the works is to be selected
door / window line. structural timber not inferior to European
Redwood/Whitewood grade C24 to BS 5268:

Bluelime Home Design Structural Specification Page 8 of 11

 Part 2 or BS EN 1995, unless noted otherwise on bolts and oversize washers, unless noted
the drawings. otherwise. Where partitions are to be tiled
joists running parallel to the joist span are to be
1.13.02 New timber in the works is to be vacuum tripled and bolted together. Provide solid
impregnated with preservative to BS 5268: Part 5 noggings under new partitions running
or BS EN 1995 and the manufacturer’s perpendicular to the joist span.
recommendations. Cut ends are to be thoroughly
treated with brush applied coats of appropriate 1.13.14 Provide full depth noggings 50mm wide to all
preservative before fixing. All preservatives are to timber floors and roof along lines of support and
be to the Architect’s approval. at mid span for spans exceeding over 2500mm
and at 1/3 and 2/3 span positions for spans
1.13.03 Structural timbers may only be drilled or cut for exceeding 3000mm, unless noted otherwise on
services as noted below: the drawings.

1.13.04 Notches in the joists are to be at the top and 1.13.15 Double up joists in bathrooms and to all other
located between 0.1 and 0.2 of the spans from floors that are to receive tiled floor finishes. Also,
the support. Maximum depth of notch should be solid noggings are to be provided at 300 mm
0.15 x joist depth. centres positioned to ensure that the free ends of
all plywood can be secured at the appropriate
1.13.05 Holes in the joists are to be along the centre line centres. Provide two layers of WBP plywood, a
in a zone between 0.25 and 0.4 x span. minimum 12.5 mm thick, screwed at right angles
Maximum hole diameter should be 0.25 x joist to each other to the joists @ 150c/c along
depth. intermediate supports and 150 mm centres along
the edges using N12 x 50 mm stainless steel
1.13.06 Notches and drilling in the same joist should be
screws ensuring that there are no vertical joints
at least 200 mm horizontally apart.
through this ply covering.
1.13.07 Sizes of new structural timbers noted on the
1.13.16 New load bearing timber stud walls to be
drawings are sawn basic sizes.
constructed using 50 x 100 studs @ 400 c/c with
1.13.08 All screws, nails, timber connectors, joist 100 x 50 head and sole plates, unless noted
hangers, steel straps etc., are to be galvanised. otherwise on the drawings. Solid noggings are to
Joist hangers, straps, connectors etc., shall be be provided at 1/3 points in height of the wall.
purpose made and of manufacture or
1.13.17 For all flat roofs provide 18mm/5 no. plies WBP
performance stated on the drawings. All such
plywood. All plywood shall be screwed down to
items are to be fixed in accordance with the
joists/rafters using N12x 50mm long galvanised
manufacturer’s recommendations, unless shown
woodscrews at maximum 300mm centres along
otherwise on the drawings.
intermediate supports and 150 mm centres along
1.13.09 All existing timbers are to be inspected at the edge supports. Plywood edges must be
beginning of the works by a specialist sub- supported on full depth 50 mm wide noggings.
contractor for rot and infestation. Details of
1.13.18 Double up roof rafters either side of new roof
replacing or strengthening any defective timbers
lights. Doubled up rafters are to be bolted
recommended by the specialist are to be agreed
together with M12 bolts at 600 centres.
on site.
1.13.19 Provide 30x5mm galvanised mild steel wall
1.13.10 When re-tiling existing or tiling new roofs, the
restrain straps at 1200mm centres to all new
Contractor must ensure that all the connections
floors and roofs. Also, provide 30x5mm
between rafter, ceiling joists and wall plates are
galvanised mild steel roof holding down straps at
as indicated on the drawings to enhance the
1200mm centres to all new roofs.
framed construction joints.
1.13.20 Where trussed rafter roofs have been indicated
1.13.11 Also, noggings 50mm wide are to be provided
on the drawings these are to be designed and
along lines of support and at mid- spans. For
installed by the manufacturer, in accordance with
spans over 4500mm provide noggings at 1/3 and
our ‘Performance Specification for Timber
2/3 span positions.
Trussed Rafters and Roofs Generally’
1.13.12 Trimmers to openings in floors and ceiling
1.13.21 New 100 x 100 load bearing timber posts
construction shall be jointed to the trimming joists
indicated on the drawings are to be grade C24.
with timber-to-timber joist hangers unless noted
otherwise on the drawings. 1.13.22 All new dormer walls/cheeks and flat roof over, to
be clad with 12 WBP (exterior grade) plywood.
1.13.13 Double up joists under new partitions running
Fixing of plywood to be as specified in section
parallel to the joist span. Doubled joists are to be
13.13.
bolted together at 600mm centres using M12

Bluelime Home Design Structural Specification Page 9 of 11

1.13.23 Where an existing loft is being converted into a fabricators, in accordance with good practice and
habitable room the new loft floor steel beams and using a minimum of 2 x M16 bolts. Design loads
joists are to be minimum 25mm clear over the for connection will be shown on the drawings but
existing ceiling joists and ceiling finishes, if in doubt the fabricator should confirm these
respectively. New joists must not be fixed to before proceeding.
existing joists, unless otherwise stated on the
drawings. 1.14.08 Exposed steel members which are to be built into
the outer leaf of cavity walls are to be Blast Clean
1.13.24 It is very important that joist hangers used are of to Sa2.5 of BS 7079: Part A1: 1989, within the
the correct size for the joist or trimmer and range 30-75 microns (typical). After cleaning
properly built in the masonry wall. For solid apply in shop primer/buildcoat, Epigrip C400 Zinc
timber joists the hanger should be the full depth Phosphate primer/buildcoat to 300 microns d.f.t.,
of the joists. by Leigh paints.

1.13.25 Joist hangers should be correct for the 1.14.09 After installation, apply finishing coats: 2 coats of
comprehensive strength of block, supported on Resistex C137 for a gloss finish or 2 coats of
level beds and be tight to the masonry wall. The Resistex C237 for semi-gloss finish. For colour
masonry course to carry the joist hangers should and finish refer to architect.
be checked for level and height. Hangers should
not be cut into the new walling. 1.14.10 Any proposed alternative paint supplier to Leigh’s
Paints shall be subject to the prior approval of the
1.13.26 Joist hangers should only be used to support engineer.
joists when wall above the hangers is minimum
450mm in height. Where the wall above the top 1.14.11 All new internal steelwork to be Blast Clean as
of the joists is less than 450mm in height, joists NSSS clause 10.2.2 to BS 7079-A1, preparation
are to bear onto the wall on a 50mm thick wall grade Sa2.5 with average surface profile in the
plate. This will prevent the opening of the joist range 50-75 microns. Shop paint with Epigrip
hangers due to lack of masonry weight over. C400V2 Zinc Phosphate primer to 75 microns dry
film thickness.
1.13.27 Masonry type joist hangers are under no
circumstances to be used when supporting 1.14.12 All new external steelwork not covered under
timber joists off new structural steel beams. clause 14.8 is to be galvanised, unless noted
otherwise on the drawings. All cutting, welding,
and drilling must be completed before galvanising
and all necessary vent and drain holes to be
1.14 STEELWORK provided in approved locations and sealed to
approval after galvanising.
1.14.01 All workmanship is to comply with BS 5950: Part
2, BS EN 1994 and the ‘National Structural 1.14.13 Steelwork to be blast cleaned to BS 4232, third
Steelwork Specification for Building quality (for roughness) using chilled iron grit
Construction’, 5th Edition by BCSA. grade G24, followed by ACID pickling. Then
galvanised to BS EN 150 1461 with minimum
1.14.02 All structural steel sections are to be Grade S355 average coating thickness of 140 microns.
to BS 5950:1, the latest issue, and BS EN 1994
unless noted otherwise on the drawings. 1.14.14 In addition to galvanising, steelwork which is to
be built into cavities or is for supporting plant, is
1.14.03 All bolts are to be grade 8.8 Precision Bolts to BS to be painted with an additional coat on site of
3692. Bolts to have a Class 1 sherardised finish WRC approved Bitumen paint e.g., Leighs
to BS 4921. Jetrone B760 to dry film thickness of 175
microns. Galvanised steelwork is to be washed
1.14.04 All welding is to comply with BS 5135. Site down with warm water with Leigh's 6500
welding shall not be permitted except with the cleansing solution and then rinsed prior to
written approval of the Structural Engineer. applying Bitumen coating.
1.14.05 All welds are to be minimum 6mm fillet welds or 1.14.15 Fire protection to all steelwork is to be to the
full-strength butt welds, unless noted otherwise Architect’s details.
on the drawings.
1.14.16 Steelwork which is to be concrete encased is to
1.14.06 The steel fabricator is to obtain dimensions from be cleaned as noted above and left unpainted.
site. Setting out dimensions are to be obtained Wrap steelwork with D98 mesh prior to
from the Architect’s drawings. concreting. Provide a minimum 50mm of
concrete to the steel beam, with the mesh placed
1.14.07 Special connections between steel members will
centrally within the concrete. See concrete
be detailed by the engineer. Connections not
specification for mix requirements.
shown on drawings should be detailed by the

Bluelime Home Design Structural Specification Page 10 of 11

1.14.17 All steelwork which is buried in the ground to
have a minimum of 100 mm concrete
encasement with D98 wrapping mesh. Cover to
wrapping mesh to be minimum 50mm. Refer to
concrete specification for foundation concrete mix
requirements.

1.14.18 Ensure that insides of hollow sections are dry

and clear of debris, before sealing ends and
openings.

1.14.19 The finish of any steelwork that is to remain

visible or is of an Architectural nature, must be
agreed with the Architect prior to manufacture.

1.14.20 All welds in areas noted above are to be ground

smooth.

1.14.21 Where mild and stainless steels are in contact bi-

metallic corrosion is to be avoided using an
isolating material between the different metals.
Also provide non- conductive waterproof gaskets
and nylon washers and bushes.

1.14.22 Splice joints in steelwork may only be used on

the written approval of the Structural Engineer.

1.14.23 Steel beams to bear over full width of new

padstones. For padstone widths greater than 330
mm bearing may be reduced only when agreed in
writing with the Structural Engineer.

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