Suspended Concrete Slab
A suspended concrete slab is a type of foundation in which a concrete slab is suspended above the ground on a system of piers or posts. The piers or posts can be made of various materials, but they are typically made of concrete, stone, or brick.
The suspended concrete slab is one of the world's most versatile and widely used construction materials. It is strong, durable, and easy to work with, making it an ideal choice for various applications.
Advantages of Suspended Concrete Slabs
- The main advantage of a suspended concrete slab is that it is solid and durable. This type of foundation can support a large amount of weight and is resistant to settling and shifting.
- The concrete slab can be made very thick, making it ideal for use in areas with a lot of traffic or where the building needs to be very strong.
- Another advantage of this type of construction is that it is straightforward to install. The beams and columns can be precast, and the concrete slab can be placed on top.
- Additionally, a suspended concrete slab is not as susceptible to damage from fire, water, and moisture as other types of foundations.
- Suspended concrete slabs allow for a more open floor plan and can provide better acoustics and thermal insulation.
- Suspended concrete slab foundations are much more resistant to termites and other pests than other foundations. The concrete slab is not in direct contact with the ground, which limits the entry of termites and other pests.
Limitations of Suspended Concrete Slabs
However, a suspended concrete slab can be more expensive to install than other foundations. This is because suspending the concrete slab on top of the foundation is more labour-intensive than simply pouring a foundation.
Additionally, this type of foundation can be challenging to repair if damaged. Still, any damage to the concrete slab can be easily repaired without having to demolish the entire foundation. This can save a lot of time and money.
Another disadvantage of suspended concrete slab foundations is that they are not as good at handling lateral loads as other types of foundations. This means that they are not as good at resisting the force of winds and earthquakes. This can be a severe problem in areas prone to these natural disasters.
Applications of Suspended Concrete Slabs
The versatility of the suspended concrete slab makes it an ideal choice for both commercial and residential applications. At Cemex Concrete Company, we commonly use it to construct office buildings, shopping malls, hospitals, schools, and other commercial structures. In addition, we often use suspended concrete slabs to construct homes, apartments, and other residential structures.
We can also use suspended concrete slabs to construct floors and ceilings and create walls, partitions, and columns. In addition, we can use suspended concrete slabs to build stairs, ramps, and other architectural features.
Making Suspended Concrete Slab - the Cemex Way
At Cemex, we typically make suspended concrete slabs from a mixture of Portland cement, water, and aggregate. The ratio of these ingredients can vary depending on the desired strength and density of the finished product.
Suspended concrete slab foundations are created by pouring a concrete foundation and then suspending the concrete slab on top of it. The concrete slab is then held in place by a system of steel reinforcement rods and cables.
Casting of Suspended Concrete Slabs
We can cast suspended concrete slabs in place or precast.
Precast concrete
Precast concrete is cast in a factory setting and then transported to the job site. We often use this type of concrete for large projects, such as office buildings and shopping malls.
Cast-in-place concrete
Cast-in-place concrete is poured directly on the job site. Cemex often uses this type of concrete for smaller projects, such as homes and apartments.
Creating a strong foundation for your project made easy
At CEMEX, we are committed to creating lasting solutions to ensure excellence through all stages of the concreting process.
Reliable Suspended Concrete Slabs Contractors in Melbourne
If you are considering a suspended concrete slab for your home or building, it is essential to consult with our qualified contractors at Cemex Concrete Company to discuss your options. Below are some expert tips from our concreters:
- Be sure to check their references and ask for photos of previous work.
- Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured.
- Be sure to get a written estimate of the project's total cost, including materials and labour.
Cemex Concrete Company specialises in the construction of suspended concrete slabs in both commercial and residential buildings. Our team has a thorough understanding of the design and construction of suspended concrete slabs and the ability to properly install the necessary materials.