What is beam and block floors?

Beam and block floors incorporate clay or concrete blocks, either solid or hollow (sometimes referred to as ‘pots’), supported on a series of parallel, typically pre-cast, pre-stressed concrete beams or ribs.

What goes under a block and beam floor?

The ground beneath the floor should be free of topsoil and vegetation. No over-site concrete or sand blinding is necessary. Typically a minimum void of 150mm (225mm in heavy clay soils) must be maintained between underside of the floor beam and the ground surface.

Why are block and beam floors used?

Concrete beam and block systems help to reduce the carbon footprint of the buildings dwelling. Once installed this type of system also provides effective thermal insulation. Concrete is a highly fire resistant and strong material, so naturally it makes an excellent choice for flooring.

Is beam and block expensive?

Beam & block floors It’s slightly more expensive, especially on relatively small jobs, but for speed and convenience it’s hard to beat. The system is dry laid, so there is no waiting for concrete or mortar to cure. These are laid on top of the inner leaf of the walls sitting on the DPC, but with no mortar bed.

Is beam and block a suspended floor?

Beam and block is a robust solution for cost-effective suspended floors. It is suitable for use on ground and upper floors in all kinds of construction, from residential to commercial buildings.

Do beam and block floors need ventilation?

The Building Regulations Approved Document C states suspended timber floors and suspended concrete floors (including block and beam) have a provision for ventilation on two opposing external walls of not less than 1500mm² per metre run of external wall or 500mm² per metre² of floor area, whichever works out to give the …

What is the maximum span of a concrete beam?

150mm – ‘Standard concrete Beam’ The clear span at maximum spacing in a standard domestic application is 4671mm. These hit the scales at 35kg per linear metre. Suited to longer spans and/or heavier loading conditions such as: larger houses, offices and care homes.

Do you need to insulate a block and beam floor?

High levels of rigid insulation can be installed over the beam and block floor. However, if EPS blocks are used, the floor system can achieve excellent thermal performance. Additional sound insulation can also improve the performance of the flooring system if required.

Do you need a DPM on a beam and block floor?

A DPM or concrete oversite in not usually required, unless needed for gas or vapour protection as per the Building Regulations. Some manufacturers do recommend a DPM over the beam and block floor before insulation – be sure to check manufacturers instructions.

What kind of floor is beam and block?

Beam and block is also referred to in some countries as ‘rib and block’ or ‘lintel and block’. The technique is used to create in-situ, suspended concrete floors (ground or upper) in concrete or masonry buildings and has become popular in residential construction. Composition

What can beam and block be used for?

Beam and block is a robust solution for cost-effective suspended floors. It is suitable for use on ground and upper floors in all kinds of construction, from residential to commercial buildings. SYSTEM OVERVIEW

When did block and beam flooring become popular?

We have been manufacturing suspended concrete floor beams since 1997. We are known for our quality products, proactive service and value focussed pricing. Block and beam flooring has become an increasingly popular choice when it comes to floor structures. This is particularly true of residential properties.

When to install beam and block concrete floors?

As the concrete products used are all precast at our factory, the installation is an entirely dry process. For this reason, the installation of beam and block is usually unaffected by cold or wet weather so can continue even during winter months. What preparation work needs to be completed to install beam and block floors?

What is beam and block floors?