These pictures are from a real Beam Upgrading Job. (Click on the thumbnail to enlarge).

	Somerset Barn - Roof Tie Beams The central two beams were bending and beginning to crack around knot holes. The beams support the purlins above via short struts, but are not connected to the wall plates. This design allows movement of the timber framed walls outwards and of the tiled roof structure downwards.
	To Upgrade the beam it is first supported with scafolding and propped through to ground. A slot is then cut into the top of the beam (so that comestically the repair is easily hidden). This slot can be cut using a chainsaw, chain morticer or a combination auger stitching and routing.
	The slot is cleaned out and the rebar is trial fitted. A number of lengths of bar are used, according to Structural Engineering Calculations.
	The bars are laid one above another using small spacers to maintain the calculated positions. Normally the majority are placed as low down within the beam as possible, with perhaps one or two bars near the top of the beam to prevent twisting and 'hogging'.
	Once the bars are correctly placed an epoxy grout is mixed, which will form a permanent composite structure.
	The epoxy grout must cover the upper bar completely, but if a cosmetic finish is required to the upper surface the slot void above the grout can be filled with a stainable product, or with a timber fillet. The epoxy grout should meet the fire resistance standards for the timber. An Upgrade of this type is likely to increase the overall load capacity of the beam by approximately 100%.

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