Background to the work
As part of an interior renovation project, our client wanted to remove a brick partition separating two living areas. Although it was not classed as a main load-bearing wall, this partition played a partially structural role by supporting a timber main joist, an essential component of the existing floor. Removing it therefore risked causing the floor above to sag or give way.
To ensure the safety and stability of the whole, the client called on our team at OMPT GROUPE to carry out suitable structural reinforcement, based on the recommendations of a structural engineering office.
Chosen technical solution
After a diagnosis and a study by the BET, the chosen solution was to strengthen the weakened joist with two 220 mm UPN steel sections, clamped on either side of the existing timber beam. This technique keeps the timber member in place while restoring its load-bearing capacity thanks to the added steel structure.
How the work went
- Making the site safe
- Protection of floors and walkways.
- Installation of temporary propping to support the floor during the work.
- Preparing the joist
- Opening the ceiling to reach the main joist.
- Cleaning, stripping and checking the condition of the timber beam.
- Installing the UPN220 steel sections
- Positioning the two UPN sections on each side of the joist.
- Drilling through and fixing with threaded rods and high-strength nuts, ensuring a rigid, reliable mechanical connection.
- Treatment and finishing
- Application of an anti-corrosion treatment to the steel elements.
- Closing up the ceiling and making good the premises.
Final result
Thanks to this work, the floor has regained its full load-bearing capacity. The twin UPN220 clamping made the structure safe without altering the look or the use of the spaces. The solution was validated by the engineering office and fully satisfied the client.
OMPT GROUPE once again confirms its know-how in work on existing structures, particularly in tight environments where safety, responsiveness and precision are essential.
