Slabs play a very important role in construction. They are responsible for distributing the load of the structure evenly, even though they are not always so visible. There are different types of slabs in every structure
Slabs are essentially flat horizontal surfaces made of concrete. They form floors, roofs, and even ceilings in buildings. Different types of slabs are designed for specific purposes.
It is the most basic slab. These types of slabs have two beams on opposite sides to support them. As a result, the load is carried in one direction. You can use it as an economical option that needs to be longer in one direction than the other. Sidewalks and corridors are some of the most common structures where you can use one-way slabs.
Now if you offer support on all four sides, the load can be carried in two directions. You can commonly see these types of slabs in residential and commercial buildings that are square or nearly square.
Since the load is distributed in two directions, you can find that these slabs are comparatively thinner than one-way slabs and require less reinforcement. They are so efficient that you can consider them a more balanced and stronger version of one-way slabs.
Flat slabs are more common in high-rise buildings as they do not rely on the support of beams and directly transfer the load to columns. Since no beams obstruct the ceiling heights, you have more freedom and flexibility in terms of layout. They are also quicker to construct and are usually seen where you need open spaces like parking garages etc.
The slab has a grid-like pattern which contributes to its name. A slab is placed over a grid of hollow blocks or voids, which reduces the amount of concrete you need. They offer unique sound and vibration control properties.
Similar to the waffle slab, the ribbed slab comes with a series of parallel beams, or “ribs” that run in one direction. They are quite lightweight and used in designs where you need slabs that are not that heavy.
This is also another lightweight option. As the name suggests some hollow tubes or cores run through the slab, making it lightweight while maintaining its structural integrity. The hollow core is usually pre-casting making it easy to construct onsite. These slabs are commonly used in spaces that require speed and efficiency.
These slabs are entirely manufactured in a factory setting after which you transport them to the site for installation. With precast slabs, you can be assured about the quality of each slab. Since these slabs can be produced while you make other preparations at the site, this process also goes. They are often used in commercial buildings, schools and warehouses.
Composite slabs are usually a clever mix of steel and concrete. It has the advantage and strength of both materials. Steel provides good tensile strength while concrete offers compressive strength. They offer immense durability and load-bearing capacity and are used in bridges, commercial buildings etc where strength is crucial.
These slabs are reinforced using high-strength steel tendons that are tensioned after you pour the concrete and let it set. This process helps make longer spans and thinner slabs, helping you save materials and time. These slabs are commonly used in high-rise buildings, parking garages, and sports facilities where large open spaces are needed.
Cantilever Slabs are those slabs that extend beyond their support, like a balcony. But the thing is that it might need extra reinforcements to prevent bending. They are used to provide aesthetic appeals like balconies and other architectural features.
Unlike flat slabs, pitch roof slabs are built inclined or sloped so that it provides water drainage. They are used in areas with heavy rainfall and in structures which need to have water runoff facilities.
Sunken slabs are constructed at a lower level than the surrounding slabs. They are usually used in spaces that need a step-down area or where you need to conceal the plumbing. Such designs can also keep water contained in specific areas which is especially helpful in wet areas like kitchens, laundry areas and bathrooms.
Suspended slabs span between supports like columns or walls. You see them being supported by structures beneath them rather than directly on the ground. They can be precast or cast in place and you can usually be used in multi-story buildings
It is one of the simplest types of slabs. You lay them directly on the ground in residential buildings, garages and patios. Even though they are easy to construct and it might not cost you much, you can only use them in areas that has stable soil and low frost.
This is a newer and more innovative type of slab. Its design is similar to the waffle slab. You make them by incorporating hollow plastic balls into the concrete. You can reduce the amount of concrete without compromising on integrity. You can use them in designs where reducing the slab is important like high-rise buildings.
