How to re-attach timber support for Villaboard wall?

[charlie01]

I hired a plumber to convert separated hot water and cold water taps to a single mixer tap. He cut a hole in the wall and removed a section of timber (as shown in the photo). He left without fixing the wall. So I have to finish the job. I've already got some villaboard. However I don't know what is the best way to re-attach the timber that he removed. It's used for the support of villaboard. Any suggestion would be appreciated.

[EricL]

Hello @charlie01 

I propose putting a timber noggin above the tap mixer and spout. In regards to the cut sections under the mixer, it is possible to add timber pieces to the noggin that has been cut. But because of the tapware installed it will not be possible to put timber support in that spot. Before you cover the area with villaboard make sure to mark on the repair piece where the existing timber pieces are. This will make it easier to mount the cut piece to the wall.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[charlie01]

Thanks, Eric.

Unfortunately, not enough room for extra noggin there. I just bought two brackets (https://www.bunnings.com.au/carinya-40-x-20-x-200-x-1mm-make-a-bracket-single_p3975743), I think I am going to use this to re-attach the timber (one bracket for each end). The bracket is strong enough to hold the timber together and stablize the villaboard.

[Nailbag]

Hi @charlie01 

Personally I wouldn't worry about filling that small timber section in. The new piece of cement sheet will be structurally sound enough especially once tiled. Probably the only thing I would do is liquid nail a short length of timber diagonally across the back of each top corner to support the replacement sheet.

Nailbag

[EricL]

Hi @charlie01 

I was hoping that there would be enough space for a support piece above the tap mixer. But as Nailbag has mentioned the new repair panel should be strong enough to go on the existing frame with a bit of support in the corners.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[charlie01]

Thanks, I will secure the cement sheet corners as usual.

[Dave-1]

Morning @charlie01 

I like @Nailbag's suggestion as the easiest and would probarly go his way.

However just to give another option.

The piece of timber that is now too short I would screw another piece of stud wall flat behind it but snugged up to the stud itself.

So a pice 30cm long ish. Screwed from the front, then from next to the new mixer tap screwed into the side of the new piece.

This is just for another option. Either way works, @Nailbag's is just easier I think.

Dave

[charlie01]

Just fixed timber section (as in the photo), It's very steady now.

[charlie01]

Thanks, Eric.

Another question: Do I need to use treated timber to support the corners of the cement sheet?

[JacobZ]

Hi @charlie01,

Great choice with those Carinya 40 x 200 x 2mm Flat Make-A-Brackets, they'll hold everything together nicely.
 

It would be best to use H2 framing pine as it is treated to protect against termites and other wood-boring insects.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob