Sill plate is the structural element that forms the basis of walls in timber-frame technology. The timber ground beam is placed on the foundation slab or ring beam, to which the wall posts are fixed. The ground beam transfers loads from the wall structure to the foundation and provides a stable and even support for the entire building frame.
It is usually made of C24 grade structural timber, KVH or BSH, protected against moisture and microbial corrosion (i.e. the process of wood decomposition by microorganisms such as bacteria, moulds and domestic fungi). It is separated from the foundation slab underneath by a damp proofing layer, e.g. felt, foil or bitumen tape.
The correct fixing and sealing of the ground beam is crucial to the durability of the structure and the thermal and airtightness of the building.
