Housing in Southern Africa November 2015

Concrete flooring

Concrete used for the construction of industrial floors, such as warehousing and factory floors, is unique and differs from that required for vertical structures.

all the characteristics of concrete, the influence of material selec- tion, environmental inconsis- tencies, as well as handling and finishing, are essential to produce a quality floor. Correct detailing of joints and reinforcement are also important. A disregard for any of these factors can result in problems which are normally observed too late in the process to affect change,” he said. Perrie stresses that consis- tency is crucial during all stages of the construction process: re- ceiving the concrete, discharging, placing, consolidating and finish- ing. The importance of protecting the concrete while it is being placed, and curing thereafter, are also vital factors. “An incomplete brief from the client, inadequate specification and detailing, lack of attention to correct proportioning, handling and finishing, inexperienced con- tractors and operators, could all contribute to a floor withpoor du- rability, strength and aesthetics. The flooring process relies on the successful completion of succes- sive phases; understanding what is being done in eachphase, using the right concrete and equipment and by the right person at the right time,” concludes Perrie. ■

Bryan Perrie

A ccording to Bryan Per- rie, managing director of The Concrete Institute, the properties required of the con- crete for flooring are governed largely by the use of correct ma- terials and the right proportions. There are material specifications for concrete as well as South African Codes of Practice for the actual placement of concrete and the finishing of floor slabs. “A thorough understanding of