Donaldson Timber Engineering recently worked with Metro Central Interiors Ltd on the Barn Hall Lodge project in Kingswood, Kent.
The residential project was built with block work and cantilevered posi-joist floor and roof levels. DTE’s Ilkeston branch supplied 227 posi-joists and 52 kerto beams for both levels, which covered a combined area of 524 metres².
The project was an interesting one for DTE’s design team as the cantilever and dragon beam details that featured on both the floor and roof created an overhang that was maintained around the entire building. Fitting the dragon beam details into the corners required not only careful joist design, but also good workmanship on site, so strong communication was crucial to ensuring seamless installation.
Another interesting aspect of the project was the two-levelled roof, which was a challenging design feature. DTE ensured that both levels of the roof fit well together through precise design, but also relied on the skilled joiners who carried out the installation to a high standard.
"We were extremely pleased with the service we received from Donaldson Timber Engineering and from start to finish, they were helpful and professional. The posi-joist is a great product and was easy to install, saving a lot of time on site. We had many positive comments from contractors who hadn’t used posi-joists before and it’s a product we will definitely use for projects in future; I would not hesitate in recommending them."
Gary Humphris-Day, Director of Metro Central Interiors Ltd
Thomas Edwards, Posi-Joist Design Team Leader at DTE, said: “This was an interesting project for us because not only did we need to design a multi-level roof and floor system that both looked good and met the needs of the original design, but the complexities of the roof and floor required a lot of collaboration with teams on site. It was a good demonstration of our attention to detail, and the strength of our teamwork with customers and their suppliers.
“The house itself is looking great and I can’t wait to see the finished building!”
DTE delivered the posi-joists and kerto beams in February 2016, and the project is still ongoing.