The message k
from "rrh" contains these words:

I did some a few months ago and planned to use the
star-washers-or-whatever-they're-called. But they kept the joists apart
however much I tightened the coach bolts. I thought the joints were more
solid without them so didn't use them in the end.


I did a loft conversion a few years ago and the BCO suggested I use them
on the doubled up joists below the transverse stud walls (that he
insisted on) but he didn't object when I didn't bother.

--
Roger