Building an Extension #3 - Suspended Beam & Block Floor
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 ต.ค. 2024
- In Part 3 of Skill Builder's series following an extension build it's time for the suspended beam and block flooring.
Generally speaking, there are two options for constructing ground floors. You can opt for a solid floor which involves laying wet concrete directly onto your ground surface or you can choose a beam and block floor which is also known as a suspended floor which allows you to achieve a low-cost concrete floor.
Beam and block flooring can also be used for suspended flooring to subsequent levels and can even be used to support partition walling.
The advantage of a beam and block floor is that you don't have to prepare the oversite saving time, materials and money because no hardcore or oversite concreting is required. If you've got an oversite which is a bit rough or spongy and you don't want to compact concrete onto it you can simply put these beams over the top of it and it doesn't matter what the ground does underneath so it's great in clay or in made up ground.
It's also a good system to use because it's fairly cheap and as demonstrated it is quick and easy to install.
Other advantages of a concrete floor include a high thermal mass which can help reduce a building's energy consumption as well as noise reducing properties and fire resistant properties.
This episode includes:
Raking out the oversite ready to lay the weed barrier and vapour barrier which stops the moisture coming up through the ground to the underside of the beams
Inclusion of air blocks underneath the beams
Putting the block into the beam - it's important to clean the snots off the beams, sometimes you might need to use a brick hammer to scrape through
Why you need to run grout over the blocks, which is basically wet sand and cement which will fill in all the little gaps and tightens the floor up
Don't forget to like the video if you want to see more like this.
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Wow! The best narration for this video. I had to listen at it over and over again. I loved when u said, 'the days to impress people with my strength is long gone.
Bloody love this "Duncan is basically sponsored by Calvin Klein undepants!"... "cheeky look at the camera, poking my tongue out!" classic. Love you guys!!
lol
😂😂
Chippy myself and I have to keep watching your videos for many great tips and experience as well as obviously the builders laughs which you are top man at... Brilliant fun whilst working
"Im a great believer in using as much in the way of mechanical aids as you can. The time for impressing people with my strength is long gone." SNAP!
Nice video! I've been on both ends of a beam and block floor, both fitting them in my site days and now designing them as a structural engineer. The practical experience is priceless, never will i spec the long beams that i used to have to lift with other labourers manually! Just a note; B&B floors are great where a suspended floor is required (clay type ground susceptible to heave) whereas slabs should only be used on well drained ground (gravel etc.). As a guide, ground types can be found through BGS maps but site specific bore holes or window samples should always be done to check the ground build up on site.
"modern housing neglect storage" so true, insightful video
Brilliant insight in to how this is all done by a professional. Thank you.
Brilliant video, definitely using that trolly idea .
Cheers for that
I like your enthusiasm! Makes a change from a miserable trades person
Thankyou for this, a great illustration. . . . Chris . . . Norwich, England
Excellent way of moving those beams, I’ll be using your method next week.
Watched this video, then started a huge job replacing 1st floor of an old house with dry rot collapse well underway. I figure Serpula Lacrymans cannot eat concrete and I do intend to sell on. Especially useful was the truck handling tips - mine is a one man operation. Inside I lift beams with up to 3 block and tackle chain hoists rated 2 tonnes each with a scaffold tower. My beams are around 5.3 m and weigh in around 220kg. Also appreciated the sartorial underwear tips but I'm of a generation where we pulled our jeans up and skiddies were out of sight.
Brilliant & comedy genius 😂👍🏻
Loving everything been watching you look like a guy I could work with and thank you for all information every bit helps
The video was worth watching for the tip you gave for moving the concrete beams. I am starting a self build project and that will be really helpful. If you have any tips for lifting beams up to a first floor that would be handy. Ill have a look at your other videos. Thanks Andy
LOVE IT! Great Info...and Kalvin Kline woul;d be proud!
Wow, interesting way to do floors. Definitely not done this way in the U.S. I'm absolutely sure there is some type of reinforcing material running lengthwise in those beams.
@Fig Charley thanks, knowing what I know, I was sure. I'm thinking it might be nice to see something like that stateside.
Hi just subscribed looking forward to more informed videos, great down to earth description, love it 👌
Welcome aboard!
Love it and great presentation...good luck
Great video. Thanks.
Well done on making it onto Channel 4’s Grand Designs tonight! Hope you got paid some royalties for that inclusion! 😂
They paid us but it wasn't a lot.
This is an interesting one me thinks 🤔
I am all up to having a better living environment by saving energy that we use to make our environment cosy.
Suspended floor ventilation ... ?
Why do we ventilate it using the air from outside the house, it induces heat exchabge and loss through the floor up to 10%.
What I don't understand is ...
Why can we not use our internal house air to ventilate the b&b sub floor?
Nevermind the logistics and the how we do it question.
Sure it is better to vent the subfloor using home air as opposed to using the air from outside the house?
Your elaboration on a subject would help.
Thank you Skill Builder 👷♂️
Love this chanel . Binge sesh
Thanks RS, hope you enjoy the backlog!
Great videos. Did you drill pilot holes in the wall for the beams first? Or did you just hammer into them?
great builder and educator
Skill builder! Need some help understanding where you installed the block and beam floor? Did it sit on the internal brick work?
Love your content, keep it coming!
Yes it sits on the internal wall. The external skin does very little except protect from the weather and give the walls stiffness. The internal wall supports the floors and the roof.
Another great video
Great work Roger!
Thanks for the video. I am converting on the first floor a beam and block for a large balcony. Will 2 inches of initial cement base be sufficient, or is 4 inches needed. Be cementing concrete slabs on it later.
Keep them coming - great stuff👍
I like the system
Don't have that in the U.S.
My back hurt just watching😃
Very informative video, Roger - regarding the beams, are they secured onto the brickwork? Many thanks. Paul
No they rely on gravity. Once the blocks are in they sit there with no chance of movement
Skill Builder - thank you for your swift response, Roger. Hope you’re keeping well in these times.
@@MrJohnnynapalm7 I wondered the same myself.
Boa noite!!
Parabéns pelo vídeo ficou muito bom, estou aqui acompanhando e deixando meu like tmj Deus abençoe sempre 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏
I'm no builder by any stretch..i just like watching your videos. How strong is this method as those concrete blocks are hanging on by an inch either side. Almost looks like you could jump and break them down the middle.
Hi Ashley
I know what you mean and I thought the same thing. I guess if you put a point load on the block it would crack but there is no point load. The beam and block is covered with insulation and a 75mm sand and cement screed with reinforcing fibres goes on top of that and then on that go the floor tiiles. Then you could drive a car over it.
Skill Builder top stuff thanks for the reply
Compressive strength of blocks range from about 2kN/sqm to 40kN/sqm, standard housing block will be 7.5kN/sqm . 7.5kN/sqm is about 750kg/sqm, so each block can take about 60kg over the face of the block. Anyway, not sure why I am typing this 2 years after the event ;)
@@pageboy1974 Load on the ‘suspended’ blocks will be a combination of compression ( top surface) and tension (bottom surface). And concrete in tension is only 1/10 of its compressive strength, so that may be a concern. However, I agree with Roger that a 2-inch mortar topping will distribute the load sufficiently to make beam and block design strong and safe depending on its particular design limits. Just my 2c.
Brilliant work SkillBuilder, we’re thinking about doing an extension just like this. Wanted to know roughly how much did this project total?
Thanks
Great Educative video.
Thank You Sir. Would it be possible to state the following
1. Maximum long span of these beams between the supports.
2. Maximum load which these beam can take .
3. Maximum n minimum distance 2 adjacent beams.
Thank you Sir.
I have liked n Sibscribed your channel n forwarded it too to my students of civil engg. N architecture.
Love from India 😊
thanks for ideas mate! awesome vids
Very good. What would be the best and cheapest concrete block to choose for an outer wall that will be rendered?There is so many to choose from, but the options available are so varied that it becomes confusing.
A lot of the time the price reflects the strength. Stick with 7newton concrete blocks
If I can build by my own this that would be great.
well dude impressed with your skill
Does the beams sit directly on the exterior brick/blocks ? Or have you got to put a pad stone down first ?
Thanks for the great video. Could you let me know ow long the longest beam run was?
4.2 metres
We used to use this is Spain in 2009 quick effective solid
I've used those concrete beams before (T-Beams) and have found you have to very careful about the blocks you use with them as some concrete blocks can be made with inferior materials or not enough cement or not vibrated enough etc and would not be up to the task of taking heavy loads when laid on its side like this.
Good job
Can AAC being used for flooring ? With the same method and for slabs
I'm sure google could tell me, but you seem to know your stuff so I'll ask you instead lol... What's the max span on those beams unsupported?
What kind of the block has been used, is it a light weight blocks?
Great video. What is the dimension of the block and beam (length/width/depth) you used and does the block have steel inside of it?
What is the environmental benefit of using block and beam tech as opposed to the traditional timber formwork in building construction?
The clarity, articulation, focused and balanced story line of the commentator is admirable. From here in Kenya kudos. For me I paused, Subscribed and tapped on the like button because of that. Have you ever thought of doing instructional video professionally?
Thanks Eric
I have worked in television and made many videos for companies. I also worked on magazines and DIY books for over 30 years. I am getting old now so I am happy to stick to TH-cam.
You're funny. I'll watch more for comedy.
How long did the complete floor take to build begining to end? Any idea of the weight rating? Looks the deal how much area did you cover & what was the complete cost? Top notch, might try this material out on an upcoming build.
Thanks
Hi Ranj
It takes a day or two to put a floor in like that. If you have three people you could do a job like this one in a day.
As for costs and load bearing it is best to contact the manufacturers. Supreme Concrete is one of the biggest but there are plenty of others out there.
Sir thank you. You gave an idea how to lift a 6m rsj. With that I am subscribing to you.
Long pants and a belt for Christmas!😁😁😁😁😁😁
Subscribed!
Excellent video, we have a block and beam roof on our garages and we want to lay a patio on top, what product would you recommend to waterproof it before putting the slabs down ?
That job is normally done with asphalt but any kind of single ply membrane would do. You just need to have an escape route for the water if it gets through the joints. Normally the slabs are laid on small upstands so the water can escape to the edges. www.roofingsuperstore.co.uk/product/rynopave-rps15-stackable-paving-support-pad-15mm-thick.html
@@SkillBuilder Thank you very much for the advice, we have only just bought the house and the roof has previously been paved but the roof must have leaked in the past and the whole roof area / paving has been painted over with some grey rubber coating, so we are planning to strip it back to the block and beam and start again, daunting task tho as it is 90m3.
I think we've got a similar situation regarding a sewer at the back, can we move the sewer further out to the garden so that we can have a large basement room?
I assume there's no chance of the blocks on their side breaking no? Just that when I labored for a block layer he said never to carry wet blocks on their side as they can break in half
Hi Roger. Great videos, very informative. I see you used a cavity and a 4" block to bring you up to floor level in the cellar area. Just curious how did you transition from this to a cavity wall at FL? Did you use a tray damp extending from the top of the inner leaf to the bottom of the outer leaf at FL with weep holes?
Hi Connor
The retaining wall below ground level is filled with concrete so it is solid just like a foundation with an internal 100mm block face to make up the thickness. It changes to a cavity wall at ground level and then comes up as a conventional cavity wall. A stepped dpc across the full width would have been a good idea and if it had been face brickwork I would have done that but the way it is any water is allowed all the way down to the solid block and then allowed to weep out at that point. The fact that the concrete blocks are rendered means that the moisture in the cavity will be next to nothing.
Skill Builder
Thanks,
Im probably going to have a basement in my house but brick on outer leaf so I'll use stepped dpc.
Great video, I built a cancer hospice and used this system, really didn’t like it though.
Good video, I am looking to build a roof terrace that’s insulated to house a living space below. (When I say im a builder will carry out the job, but it’s not a common job in the Uk). Roof terrace needs to hold a hot tub
Mr Kage
You can ask the beam and block suppliers to come up with a drawing for the terrace. The size of the hot tub will have to be worked out. The water weighs 1 kilo per ltr. Also explore the option of placing the insulation on top of the beam and block and then a screed and water proofing membrane. It needs careful working out to prevent interstitial condensation.
How far appart should I cut the pockets mate?
Looks neat, but looks overspanned at approx 4m. You would normally be looking at 3.5m max span at that spacing.
When grouting is the sand/cement mix brushed in dry (with the floor pre wetted) or is the sand/cement mix turned into a slurry?
Can we use ordinary concrete blocks for filling the gaps between beams?
What brand are those underpants and do they make a men's pair as well ?
Victoria's Secret 😃
Supreme
Ignorant question - Can this concrete block & beam method be used to replace old suspended timber joists & floorboards? If so, presumably you can still insulate very well underneath (no basement)?
Интересная технология для замены ЖБИ плит перекрытия.
Nice mate
Where are you based mate? Need an extension at some point
Skill Builder. Picking up on what you said regarding different ground. I am using BnB floor on extension. I have lots of made up ground... What's acceptable to put over this made up ground... Sand blinding and then some geotextile membrain? Some people are saying 75mm concrete oversite... Seems a bit excessive..?
If the ground is made up then I would use a mesh and 75 concrete but the preference is still beam and block.
Great video as usual. Could that cellar be used as a bedroom?
In theory because it will be warm and dry you could sleep down there if you had a falling out with your partner, but that retaining wall is solid and doesn't comply with the required 'U' value so it is for storage.
Did the basement walls need structural strengthening or mesh reinforced cavity concreting due to side load from soil outside? Also was any damp proofing done prior to this?
Yes the basement walls are reinforced with rods in concrete and there is a membrane on the outside.
I think when you look at the huge number of Victorian cellars built from brick with no waterproofing or reinforecement the basement walls seem to resist ground pressure. It there is a enough weight on top they are fine.
Very great video my questions are how many maximum meters the width we can use this type of beams, for example, I have 2 floors the width of the room 5 meters can I use this technology?
Hi.roger
I liked ur videos quite interesting & helpful especially for those who want to learn more about extensions.& to reduce costs. You know all the prices.
I am planning for an extension at the side of my flat. It’s four in a block cottage flat but through land registry I know this part of land belongs to me only .neighbour downstairs have own access to their main door.
My question would I get permission for a 2 storey extension. How much it cost for permission?
The extension I m thinking about 32 square metres.
I asked couple of Builders quote me roughly £2000 to 2500 m2 double storey extension.roughly about £60,000 job.
My budget is £40,000 .
How can I reduce cost ? Which material to use or who to use to reduce labour cost & materials?
Any suggestions will be appropriated ?
I m in Glasgow,Scotland.
Thanks
Thanks for the video. Great work. How far in the wall must the beam go?
Top vid Roger
Thanks Steve.
man that is so cool and fast. would probably save too much money and last too long in the usa lol. otherwise, it would be extremely overpriced.
This video just featured on Channel 4 Grand Designs 🙌 21/06/2021
What is the loading for 1 ft.sq ? Thank you
You guys need to buy a Grasshopper. Way easier and better than the hand cart.
Can you put a hot tub on a floor structure like this outside I have a raised deck area but 3 drains underneath so can’t build a concrete pad for the tub
The designers will tell you exactly what load it will take.
Contact the beam and block company and tell them how many ltrs = kilos you want to put on there and add the weight of the occupants
Hi thanks for the video. I am in the process of buying a building but it has wood worn in the loft. Is the beam & block system
allowed to be installed for the attic floor?
Where can I find those t joist in USA? It's impossible to find!
hello mr
How is a cement rod made?
How about the number of iron bars ... the amount of thickness mm?
Approx $50 per beam for real? In US I dont even know where I would buy a beam like that if I wanted too... And even then its probably going to cost $200 each... If anyone knows where to get these in Northwest Indiana let me know!
I was was der if the block and beam is part of a raised patio on the back of house can it be sealed to be made waterproof ? Thus not water leaks uder house
Yes it can be used in this way but often a steel decking system is used to allow a reinforced concrete deck to be poured. www.kingspan.com/gb/en-gb/products/structural-steel-solutions/structural-steel-products/multideck
Is there a 100mm DPC underneath the beams
Yes a Hi Load DPC
I have exactly same floor, would I be OK with 700kg aquarium with flat stand?
It won't snap under that load but it might bounce a bit if you walk on those beams. It depends on the span and size of beam. You can download the tables for loading. If it is near one end it is always better.
thank
ROGER DOES AIR BRICKS ALLWAYS GO ABOVE A DPC IS THAT A MUST
No they can go below but only if the ground is low enough to get them in.
Interesting. Wish our builder used this method. We have wooden joists and it annoys me every time walking through the room you can feel floor bounce and furniture shakes with the dipping floor.
We have timber on the 1st floor and I have a good way of stopping that bounce. It is coming up soon
Skill Builder I'll watch out for that. Mine is ground floor extension. About 2 feet off the ground. But floor is all finished and oak floor laid so I don't think there's much I can do now. I had though about plunge sawing out a bit and putting a timber support down from joist to a paving slab on the mud. But I'll probably live with it as is.
You just have to use thick subfloor sheeting, if your joists are 24" apart, using 1-1/8" advantech OSB and gluing it down with their adhesive would solve the issue
bahopik unfortunately too late now. Oak floor and kitchen installed on top. If I remember correctly it was a chipboard interlocking subfloor screwed on to the joists.
1:45 youll never see a trolley with a bad back!
This guy sounds just like Jason Stathom
2:58 I thought you were going to say bad because it will damage your back!
any chance i could come and help you
how come this construction method does not require vertical beams to carry the roof on top of it
The blocks are load bearing. Each one of those blocks can take a dead load of 15 tons.
@@SkillBuilder thanks, i just saw one house being built in my city in UK and i thought they are building something unsafe and then googled this method to check it out and it turns out its quiet used in here as well
🇮🇪 Would this work to raise 12m² patio by 400mm?
And do you lay a bed of mortar underneath?
How many inches is the beam
You need a bigger two wheeler...