Joist sockets (and sprinkler heads)

One of the issues with internal wall insulation is that joist ends which are set into sockets in the brickwork are at increased risk of decay due to condensation developing on the cut end of the timber (see article for more information).

Fortunately, as our house is mid-terraced and the joists span between the party walls, we only have to deal with this issue in one area - the bay window. Today the builders removed the floorboard and joists within the ground-floor bay:

The next time the brickies are back on-site we will make up the socket holes, and then fit 45-degree joist hangers, which will hold the joist ends clear of the wall, within the insulation:

Meanwhile, the sprinkler first-fix is progressing. This photo shows one of the heads in position, with pipe run within the suspended ceiling void (the red cap is temporary, for the duration of construction works):

The old light-fitting to the left gives a sense of scale.

The sprinkler guys finished at lunchtime (as they always do on Fridays!) and left the floorboards up in the room which I'm using as the site office, which I thought was a little inconsiderate!

The window company haven't got back to me, and I forgot to chase them; first on the list for Monday.

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