OMPT's specialities include opening load-bearing walls, strengthening structures with steel frames, reinforcing timber beams, and creating floor openings and mezzanines. Reinforcing an existing timber beam is one of our recent projects on a Paris site. Here are the stages:
The technical study
The starting point was a technical feasibility study of the project. It was carried out by the structural engineering office (BET), which defined an intervention plan that we naturally followed. Our expertise in strengthening timber beams with steel allows us to deliver quality work with no defects. Timber is a living material that changes with variations in temperature and humidity. This must absolutely be taken into account when reinforcing beams.
Pre-work preparation
As with each of our jobs, we take great care to protect floors, walls and furniture so that they are not at risk of being damaged by the work.
Twin-beam clamping (moisage)
Strengthening timber beams begins with fitting a flat steel bar on each side, in a twin-beam clamping (moisage) system. Strictly following the BET's recommendations, plates are cut in two and assembled in a staggered pattern using a double system of welding and M14 bolts placed 45 cm apart.
Fixing a flat steel bar
The steel reinforcement continues, still following the BET's procedure, with a flat bar fixed under the existing timber beam. The method used, at the structural engineer's instigation, was to use M10 lag screws spaced 45 cm apart in a staggered pattern to ensure optimal strength, followed by welding and bolting.
Painting
Once the existing timber beam has been strengthened, it is time to paint the steel structures. This step is important because we use anti-rust paint to protect the metal and ensure good durability.
End of the job
As with each of our jobs, we take great care to remove the protective coverings, clean the premises thoroughly and put any moved items back in their original place.
