Quick question on packing sole plate

[Alan Ambrose]

I’m just about to do this too. Took a bunch of laser measurements today, will crunch them tomorrow - but I know there’s something like a 16mm variation.

[marmic]

ouch.

 

Thanks for everyone's thoughts

 

I fitted all the horizontal external extruded polystyrene insulation yesterday (nearly dark on last ones!). Big fat continuous bead (dollop) of low expansion foam along the gap that ideally shouldn't be there.  Then extruded polystyrene pushed in -  held in place to stop the foam pushing it up and out with wedges cut from insulation. Will have expanded under sole plate a little.

 

Tub of repair mortar from screwfix (sand cement) mixed not too wet, but wet enough to be forced in with mortar gun using flat rectangular nozzle.  Have a conscientious and capable person here on day rates doing this -  took most of morning but worked well. I simply don't have time to do everything I'd like as have to work for a living!

 

DPM now down - insulation next then air tight membrane (also for screed) -  UFH pipes / screed next week if all goes to plan.

 

My thoughts to reach this conclusion below - not saying I am right, and may not be for everyone, and certainly not professional advice (which i don't believe you will get anywhere for this issue), but I'm quite happy with where we are:

 

• From what I've read seems the cartridges of repair mortar not great, big nozzles, and would need too many, and probably not work out well. I did look at one in the flesh - and indeed nozzle too big
• Didn't have time to procure a true non shrink grout - but from what I've worked out most too runny for what is required. And not designed for this application.  Thinking further the timber soleplate has potential to shrink back a little anyway!
• The mortar used will shrink a fraction no doubt, but will support any load should it need to. No different to mortar between bricks - and with the foam on outside too little or no air will get through
• and 2 part mixed products probably too thick to work in properly.