I'm trying to modify the wiring in ceiling above light fitting. This is to fit a Sonoff Basic for automation purposes. However, having removed the light fitting there is very little space that is not obstructed by the ceiling joist. I can see the main joist as expected but there is another piece of timber adjacent to it with a notch cut out to allow the 3 cables to go through. This notch is not big enough for what I need to do. So my question is:
- What is this piece of timber? It doesn't seem to be a joist or strut as it's parallel to the joist?
- Can I safely drill through it to create more space?
looking at the photo is appears the rafter to left looking down on photo was short so its been extended by another and both rest out of site on a wallplate the two will be nailed with cut nails or bolted together. Choice is your drilling another hole I feel wont make much difference but if in doubt call structural engineer from council its at a cost. Many times come across this in houses I have bought and also again in bungalow I live in now where the floor joists are short there is an extention joist at side of it, as also there is in the garage roof.
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