J Johnstone Engineering recently fabricated and installed structural steelwork for a striking residential project in Watermillock near Penrith in the Lake District.
The build incorporated a combination of portal frames, structural beams and wind posts, designed to support both the building structure and the surrounding stonework while allowing for large glazed openings within the property.
Working alongside the builder on the project, our team fabricated the steelwork in-house before delivering it to site and completing the installation.
Projects like this continue the work we regularly carry out on architectural builds across the region, including recent structural steel projects in Keswick and Borrowdale Valley.
Structural Steel Framework for Stone and Glazing
The project required a substantial amount of structural steelwork to support both the building structure and the external stonework.
In total, we fabricated and installed:
- 15 structural beams with extended flanges designed to act as lintels carrying the stonework above
- 7 wind posts to provide structural stability within the building framework
- 2 structural portal frames connected by a ridge beam
- A third portal A-frame designed to frame the glazed entrance and surrounding stonework
The extended flanges on the beams allowed the stonework to sit correctly above the steel while maintaining the structural integrity of the building.
Ridge Beam Supported by Oak Trusses
A key structural element within the design was the ridge beam connecting the two main portal frames.
The ridge beam spanned across the structure and was positioned on top of the oak roof trusses, where it was securely fixed into the timber framework.
Combining structural steel with traditional oak trusses requires careful planning and accurate fabrication to ensure the loads are transferred correctly between the steel and timber elements of the structure.
Portal Frame for Glazed Entrance
In addition to the main structural framework, we also fabricated a third portal A-frame designed to form the structure around a large glazed entrance.
This frame supported both the glass door opening and surrounding stonework, creating a strong structural frame while maintaining the clean architectural appearance of the entrance.
Architectural steel elements like this allow designers to incorporate large glazed openings without compromising the strength of the building.
Fabricated In-House and Installed by Our Team
All steelwork for the project was fabricated in-house at our family-run workshop in Silloth, Cumbria, where our team cut, prepared and assembled the components ready for installation.
Once completed, the steelwork was delivered to the site in Watermillock and installed by our team.
Managing the fabrication, delivery and installation ourselves ensures the steelwork is installed accurately and in accordance with the structural engineer’s design.
Structural Steel Projects Across the Lake District
From our workshop in Silloth, J Johnstone Engineering regularly fabricate and install structural steelwork for self-build homes, architectural projects and structural renovations across Cumbria and the Lake District.
Our work spans locations including:
- Keswick
- Borrowdale Valley
- Cockermouth
- Penrith
- The wider Lake District region
With nearly four decades of experience, our family-run company continues to support builders, developers and homeowners with structural steel solutions for projects of all sizes.
Structural Steel Fabrication and Installation in the Lake District
If you are planning a self-build or renovation project in the Lake District requiring structural steelwork, J Johnstone Engineering provide in-house fabrication, delivery and professional on-site installation across Cumbria.
Related Structural Steel Projects in Cumbria
J Johnstone Engineering regularly fabricate and install structural steelwork across Cumbria and the Lake District. Recent projects include:
• Structural steel installation for a large new build property in Lanercost, Cumbria
• Twin peak A-frame structural steel for self build in Seaton, West Cumbria
• Structural steel for the conversion of a former railway station in Mealsgate, Cumbria
If you would like to discuss a project or Request a Quote, feel free to get in touch.
