Sweating over the foundations of your upcoming build? With several methods to choose from, it can be confusing trying to decide on the right one. But don’t panic just yet as we’re here to help you out. In this article we look into a popular choice for both ground and upper levels on account of its accessibility, practicality and cost-effectiveness.
Below are our top five reasons to consider beam and block flooring for your own project.
#1: It’s Quicker
As an alternative to the age-old method of timber joists and floorboards, many modern builds utilise a concrete slab over hardcore along with rigid foam installation in order to provide better insulation and minimise draughts. However, this method can be time-consuming as it requires the concrete to cure before the job can continue and can also be weather-dependent.
The easy to handle beam and block floor offers a much quicker process as there is minimal need for ground preparation. And, as the method is completely dry, without any mortar or adhesive required, it creates a safe working platform for follow-on trades (or, if you’re working alone, the next part of the build) as soon as the slab is laid.
#2: It’s Great for DIY
Installing a concrete beam and block floor is simple and straightforward, making it a great option if you’re building your own house or structure. The T-beams are laid and positioned to allow the blocks to fill the space in between. Companies that specialize in beam and block, in addition to providing the materials, will design the floor for you and supply plans and drawings to guide you as you go. And of course because the method is accessible for unskilled workers, beam and block offers great potential savings on labour too.
#3: It’s Safer – and Hardier
Beam and block floors, unlike timber and other materials, are fire resistant; they won’t warp, melt, bend or collapse if exposed to flames or high levels of heat. In a worst case scenario this allows more time and options to escape from the building, or for fire-fighting services to enter. Furthermore, beam and block are inert materials, meaning that they can’t be affected by some of the most common household nuisances: frost, damp, rot, vermin and so on.
#4: It Drowns Out the Noise
Because of the sheer density of the beam and block materials, the acoustic insulation between storeys is much greater. That is to say, if the method is employed for an upper floor, the sound transfer between storeys will be significantly reduced, meaning no more banging on the ceiling with a broom! And with there being no wood involved, you can say goodbye to those pesky creaking floorboards too.
#5: It Provides Architectural Freedom
Peace and quiet isn’t the only benefit that the beam and block density offers though. Because the floor is able to carry much heavier loads, it provides the option to be more creative with the upstairs layout, as blockwork partitions can safely be erected on the floor. It also makes underfloor heating easy to install.
Conclusion
Many people have waxed lyrical about their decision to include beam and block flooring in their own building projects. Whether you’re looking to save time, money, tranquillity or floor space, the method offers an efficient and painless alternative to many of the other options in use today.
