Older Block and Beam floor (pre 2000).

[Rosspolo]

Hi,

I'm wanting to explore the possibility of replacing a floating chipboard floor with a screed for a house built in 1999.

The subfloor is block and beam but the beams appear to be a lot less beefy than their modern equivalent. From the measurements I've been able to do they appear to be 35x150x80mm (in cross section; the longest span is 3.6m). For modern designs there are tables online which give an indication of span VS load but I can't find any similar examples for (or indeed reference to) beams of this size.

Has anyone came across similar before or know where I might look for technical specs. I appreciate that this would differ between products/blocks used but I'm just looking for a starting point. For reference the beams appear to have 3 reinforcing rods from what I can see.

So far the closest to these dimensions I have been able to find is this product:

https://www.litecast.co.uk/products/beam-block/

I'd be greatful for any help on this. Thanks.

 

[Leofric]

The subfloor is block and beam but the beams appear to be a lot less beefy than their modern equivalent.

What do you mean by their modern equivalent Precast concrete beam and block floors have always been designed by the specialist supplier for each specific job as far as I know.

 

[Rosspolo]

Ah.

What do you mean by their modern equivalent Precast concrete beam and block floors have always been designed by the specialist supplier for each specific job as far as I know.

All the ones I have found online which are 150mm seem to be around 70mm top and 120mm bottom. I had assumed that this was some kind of industry standard now but from what you are saying this isn't the case? In which case I'm guessing that I would struggle to find a simple answer for this? It just seems odd that I can't find any reference at all to similar beams online so am hoping someone might have experience of similar.

 

[Leofric]

I had assumed that this was some kind of industry standard now but from what you are saying this isn't the case?

Don't think I was saying that, I asked :-

What do you mean by their modern equivalent

As I said the beams are designed for particular cases, but I think I see what you mean now, are you saying your beams are only 35mm thick at the top

 

[Rosspolo]

Yes, sorry if that wasn't clear. I've attached an image of the approximate measurements.

They are at 49cm centres and the widest span is 3.6m.