Bolts, posts and engineered connections on Berwick homes
Measuring what was installed against what the engineering specifies.
In short: Engineered connections only work at the size and spacing drawn. A bolt one size down looks almost the same.
Why bolt size matters
The engineer sizes each bolt for the load the connection carries. A smaller bolt may not take it.
How we measure
Calipers on the installed bolt, compared with the engineering detail for that connection.
Split posts
On one Berwick frame a post had split where coach screws were driven in poorly, weakening the very part meant to carry the beam.
Junctions cut for plumbing
We have also seen a loadbearing wall junction cut back to make room for pipes. Services should be routed around structure, not through it.
Getting it fixed
The supervisor replaces the fixings or gets an engineer's sign-off. Either way it happens before linings go on.
Written by our local inspection team from work carried out in Berwick. Licensed building practitioners, Building & Plumbing Commission registration CDB-U 53425.
