The slab is a structural element which serves as a roof, resting on the construction beams. Normally made of concrete, it proves to be fundamental for the house or building to gain shape, strength and safety.
The slab is fundamental to the structure of the house. (Photo: Disclosure)
What this article covers:
The importance of the slab
The choice of slab cannot be done in any way. First of all, the owner needs to ask advice from an engineer or architect🇧🇷 The specialized professional is able to evaluate the structural needs of the property and suggest the best type of coverage.
The technical standards establish several criteria for the slab to become safe, such as permanent load, accidental load and structural calculation. If the property is built with the wrong slab, it can suffer from several problems, such as cracks in the wall and even risk of collapse.
The different types of slab
Discover the following different types of slab🇧🇷
The slab needs to be safe and strong. (Photo: Disclosure)
massive slabs
The solid slab is built on site from a wooden formwork, into which concrete is poured. To give resistance to the constructive system, a reinforcement of metallic rods is mounted. The simple solid slab has a smooth surface and is supported by the beams. The mushroom slab rests on the pillars.
Advantages: it has a lower risk of suffering from cracks and fissures.
Disadvantages: It is heavier and requires a more resistant structure. In this way, the cost also ends up being high.
precast slabs
The precast slabs are not made on site, that is, they arrive ready or semi-ready for construction. The composition is based on concrete panels, which can be filled with different materials.
Advantages: affordable cost and easy assembly.
Disadvantages: can make finishing difficult and is more likely to crack.
slabs with styrofoam
The slab has the space between the concrete joists filled with Styrofoam blocks.
Advantages: lightweight, easy to install and guarantees quick work.
Disadvantages: does not allow drilling holes at the bottom.
Styrofoam slab. (Photo: Disclosure)
Slabs with ceramic tiles
The structure of this slab is composed of concrete beams with a lattice-like reinforcement. The existing spaces are filled with ceramic tiles.
Advantages: it is a cheap system that allows you to cover small gaps.
Disadvantages: The tiles are fragile and break easily.
Slabs with lattice panels
This type of slab is composed of concrete panels and is capable of making its own shape.
Benefits: strength, ease of transport and less use of shoring wood.
Disadvantages: it is much more expensive than other precast systems.
