beams for loft conversions

Steel beams for loft conversions are often required to support new floor joists. A suitably qualified person should undertake the structural design. Any beams for loft conversions, beam bearings, posts, trimmers and connection details should be justified by calculations, copies of which should be submitted for checking by the Authority. Steel beams supporting floors or walls need to be fire protected to at least 30 minutes fire resisting standard. The beams for loft conversions must not bear into chimneys. Rafters are to be doubled up on either side of roof lights. If roof lights are to be provided side by side, it is unlikely that doubling up of the rafters will be sufficient and appropriate strengthening should be determined by calculation.