Gallows brackets-How to install them

Gallows brackets are metal supports, triangular in shape used in combination with a pre stressed concrete lintel to support the chimney stack in the loft when a chimney breast has been removed on the floor(s) below.Different councils have slightly different requirements when it comes to the installation of Gallows brackets and while one will insist on 3 gallows brackets to support the brickwork above another will require just 2. The strength of the gallows brackets will also need to comply with council specifications which means the flanges will have to be 3 inches wide and not 2 inches as was the case in the old days. Because the chimney flues are bonded into the main party wall there is no need to be too concerned that the whole stack will come tumbling down and I have seen cases where the only thing supporting the stack in the loft was the grace of God.

Before embarking on a project like removing a chimney stack always notify the council and be safe rather than sorry as they will advise the best way forward and there will be no worrying when it comes to selling the house as everything will have been carried out in accordance with building regulations. Remember also that if you share a party wall with your neighbour you may need a Party Wall Agreement.

The process of installing the gallows brackets is pretty straight forward and can easily be carried out in a day but great care has to be taken to ensure you do not fall down through the ceiling as this can ruin your whole day.

You will need

1. 3 gallows brackets

2. 1pre-stressed concrete lintel 9inches wide (2 lintels 4 inches wide are easier to carry) or metal plate

3. 6 rawlbolts to bolt the brackets to the wall

4. 1 drill with a 16mm drill bit

5. Sharp sand and cement mix to use as drypack between the top of the lintel and the underside of the brickwork

Sequence of operations installing the Gallows Brackets

1.Drill 6 holes (two per bracket) where the Gallows brackets are to go i.e one bracket must go on either side of the stack and one in the middle.

2. Offer the gallows brackets to the wall and put the rawlbolts through securing them tightly with a spanner.

3. Span the lintel across the gallows brackets

4. Mix up 2:1 sharp sand and cement mix better known as drypack (damp not wet) and insert it between the lintel and the upper brickwork forming a very strong bond.

This is not a very difficult job to do, but given the dusty conditions and absence of good ventilation in your average loft, it does warrant the use of a good quality dust mask.( and at least six pints of a good quality lager to ensure no possibility of a dreaded sore throat. This is entirely optional... but highly recommended :)