Mounting lights above breakfast bar – to steel beam?

grumbler

Hennymore said:

Also found self-tapping screws like https://www.screwfix.com/p/easydrive-carbon-steel-self-drilling-screws-5-5-x-75mm-100-pack/44476 – also considering that (probably with a pilot hole).

Despite SF claiming that "These are designed to be used on RSJ amongst other things so can deal with pretty hefty material." I don't think that this can be done without a pilot hole.

Le_Kirk

grumbler said:

Hennymore said:

Also found self-tapping screws like https://www.screwfix.com/p/easydrive-carbon-steel-self-drilling-screws-5-5-x-75mm-100-pack/44476 – also considering that (probably with a pilot hole).

Despite SF claiming that "These are designed to be used on RSJ amongst other things so can deal with pretty hefty material." I don't think that this can be done without a pilot hole.

I agree, self-tappers are normally used on thinner materials, could struggle to get through an RSJ.

Hennymore

Got the screws delivered today and tried one - it worked! Took some elbow grease. I was so keen to try them that I forgot all about pilot holes, but it worked anyway. Will probably drill a pilot hole for the next one, though - think that may help getting it in exactly the right spot.

About the wiring, I had the same insight - I’ll get an electrician to come round and figure that part out. I’m sure they’d do a better job than I would.

Thanks so much everyone!