Installing a beam to support loft inspection path

[fandyman]

Since I am considering replacing it I suppose I should redo it with longer 2x6 (C24 instead of C16) timber as 2x8 would be too heavy to be attached to 2x3 rafters. What do you think?

 

[cdbe]

Lower the better (but leave at least 25mm above the binder so it doesn't start pressing onto it if it deflects a bit). I know you're calling it a "tie" but that serves a completely different purpose - yours is just a beam. If you've fixed it in place have a careful bounce mid span and see how it feels - I'm sure it will be fine for the intended use.

 

[fandyman]

Thanks @cdbe for valuable input.

I will position as you say and settled on 2x7 C24 in the end. Hope it does not overload the 2x3 rafters too much with the F&E tank being held up by the same rafters as well (I think it shouldn't as it will be installed very close to the wall plates).