Blocks onto oak wall plate how?

Jun 17, 2016 3 Replies
D

I'm going to build a few layers of lightweight blocks on top of an old oak wall plate as part of roof reconstruction.



My plan is a thin layer of mortar on the oak, then blocks and mortar.



Portland will be ok, not lime wont it?



And I dont need a layer of DPC do I?



Maybe some nails or screws down through the first layer to fix it to the oak, or between the gaps between the blocks?



george



(if i can get the blocks, Travis Perkins said theres a shortage of light weight blocks, the factory's shut down for a month)


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T

I think you have it about right. Lime mortar would be OK. ISTR I've seen straps used to link blockwork to timber as well as nails driven in. I would recommend at least for the lower courses to put in some reinforcement. Either bow tie wall ties or even lay chicken wire in the mortar: That way the blockwork wont crack as the wood moves - and it will.

You can fill up any subsequent cracks with mastic.

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H

If it's an outdoor wall, they usually put lead on top of the wood

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D

yes, the wood might move, so maybe a layer of lime mortar on the wood then use portland cement for the blocks?

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