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 blocks do you use in a block and beam floor?
Standard size blocks are normally used (440mm x 215mm x 100mm) although larger aerated floor blocks are also available. In terms of strength, 100mm aggregate blocks conforming to BS EN 771-3 must provide either 7.3 N/mm2 or greater compressive strength.
What are the benefits of a block and beam floor?
The advantages of beam and block floors are:
- Easy to handle.
- Can make use of unskilled labour.
- Provide a durable concrete floor system.
- Can be used for suspended ground and upper floors.
- Economical due to the off-site manufacture of beams and blocks.
Do I need DPC under block and beam?
Any suspended floor of in situ or precast concrete including beam and block floors, next to the ground will meet the requirement if it will adequately prevent the passage of moisture to the upper surface and if the reinforcement is protected against moisture.”
Do block and beam floors bounce?
Some beam and block floors do have a bounce, especially if they are at their upper span limit of around 5m. Some are designed to settle when the insulation and floor screed has been loaded and cast.
How do you seal a beam and block floor?
To seal the joints, the whole floor should be grouted with a nominal 3:1 sharp sand/cement mix as soon as possible after fixing the floor joists and blocks. Brushing the grout over the floor with a stiff broom after the surface has been well ‘wetted’.
Is block and beam cheaper than slab?
Beam & block floors While a simple concrete slab can be relatively cheap, it takes time to lay and dry out, so over the last few years, the beam and block suspended floor has become more prominent. It’s slightly more expensive, especially on relatively small jobs, but for speed and convenience it’s hard to beat.
Is Block and Beam good?
As the flooring system is draught proof, rot proof and fire resistant, there are no concerns over the quality of beam and block. Its rigid construction also results in minimal shrinkage, no creaks and a lack of bounce that is associated with timber floors.