ABSTRACT
The term floo in this chapter refers to the structural part of a horizontal1 supporting element, as distinct from the wearing surface.2
At ground and basement levels, full support from the ground is generally available at all points and a slab of concrete resting directly on the ground may be used. This is known as ‘solid floor’ construction. At upper levels the floor structure must span between relatively widely spaced supports in order to leave the floor area below unobstructed. The forms of construction used in these circumstances are known as ‘suspended floors’
8.1 Functional requirements
The main function of a floor is to provide support for the occupants, furniture and equipment of a building. To perform this function and, in addition, others which will vary according to the situation of the floor in the building and the nature of the building itself, the floor must satisfy a number of requirements in its design and construction. These may be defined as the provision of adequate:
l strength and stability l fire resistance l sound insulation l thermal insulation l damp and ground gas resistance.
