TYPES OF PRECAST CONCRETE FLOORING
EXPLORING THE TYPES OF PRECAST CONCRETE FLOORING FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Precast concrete flooring offers numerous advantages for specifiers, from speed of installation to the consistent quality that modern construction projects demand.
However, with various types of precast concrete flooring available, it is crucial to understand which system best suits your specific project needs, from structural requirements to environmental considerations.
FP McCann are one of the UK and Ireland’s leading precast concrete manufacturers, and have built our 45 year reputation on a foundation of excellence, innovation, and reliability.
From our 12 UK based manufacturing facilities we serve architects, main contractors, specialist contractors and other specifiers with not just high quality precast concrete products, but also with problem-solving capabilities and technical expertise.
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HOLLOWCORE PRECAST FLOORING
Hollowcore precast flooring is one of the most widely used precast concrete systems within the construction sector. It offers a range of advantages that make it a go-to solution for architects, main contractors, and specialist contractors alike, particularly in projects requiring cost efficiency, rapid installation, and structural versatility.
These are precast concrete slabs with hollow tubular voids running through their length. These voids reduce the overall weight of the slabs without compromising their structural strength.
The hollowcore units are manufactured in a factory-controlled environment to ensure consistency and quality, and they are typically available in standard lengths and thicknesses, making them adaptable to a wide variety of building projects.
The hollow voids not only make the slabs lighter but also improve the material efficiency, reducing the volume of concrete used without diminishing load-bearing capacity. This makes hollowcore flooring an ideal solution for projects where reducing weight is a priority, such as multi-storey buildings.
Another benefit of hollowcore precast flooring is the ease of installation. The slabs are pre-manufactured to precise specifications, which allows for seamless fitting on-site with minimal labour required. This reduces the risk of errors during installation and ensures a faster overall build.
Key benefits:
– Lightweight and cost-effective
– Structural efficiency
– Fire resistance
– Thermal insulation and soundproofing
BEAM AND BLOCK FLOORING
Beam and block flooring is a widely used construction method that combines precast concrete beams and infill blocks to create a solid, reliable, and thermally efficient floor system.
It offers a practical solution for a range of building projects, particularly in residential and commercial developments.
Beam and block flooring is a composite floor system that consists of inverted T-shaped precast concrete beams placed at regular intervals across a supporting structure, with the gaps between them filled with concrete blocks. The system is then grouted to create a solid floor slab.
This method has been used for decades in the UK construction industry, thanks to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability to various project types. Indeed, one of the most significant challenges in construction is meeting tight deadlines without compromising quality. Beam and block flooring offers a solution with its fast and efficient installation process. The precast beams and blocks can be assembled on-site quickly, without the need for complex equipment or specialised labour, helping to keep projects on schedule.
Key benefits:
– Quick and easy installation
– Enhanced thermal insulation
– Excellent load-bearing capacity
– Resistance to moisture and damp
THERMABEAMTM INSULATED FLOORING
ThermaBeamTM is an insulated precast concrete flooring solution that combines strength, insulation, and thermal efficiency.
The C45/55 structural concrete is cast onto the insulation forming a continuous layer of insulation across an entire ground floor. Air gaps are eliminated and heat loss is minimised with the thermally insulated ground floor system, meaning improved energy savings and better sustainability credentials.
ThermaBeamTM is manufactured in a controlled factory environment to ensure quality and consistency. It is designed to be installed quickly on-site, providing a solid base for additional flooring layers and offering thermal benefits that support sustainable building practices.
It is a more thermally efficient method of construction compared to traditional methods e.g. Beam and Block, as it helps to maximise the thermal performance and energy rating of the building.
Key benefits:
– Better thermal efficiency
– High structural integrity
– Increased sustainability properties
– Fast installation
PRECAST STAIRS AND LANDINGS
Precast stairs and landings provide safe and durable access between building levels on a building project. Manufactured off-site, the units are fabricated to meet precise specifications, allowing for efficient on-site installation.
There are a range of options to choose from, including integral landings top and bottom, integral top landing, a straight flight of stairs, and a half landing with integral flight of stairs.
Precast stairs and landings can be tailored to suit a wide range of design and functional requirements. From straight flights to complex multi-level configurations, the versatility of precast stairs accommodates various architectural styles and project needs.
Key features:
– Quality finish
– Fast installation and immediate access
– Customisation available with a range of casting options
– High load capacity
BEAM AND POLYSTYRENE PANEL FLOORING
Beam and EPS poly flooring utilises two different energy-efficient systems which are designed in line with new Part L regs being introduced.
One option is the top sheet flooring system. Easy to install with minimal waste, a polystyrene panel sits within the depth of the floor beam and combines with an overboard top sheet to sit on top of the floor. U-values of 0.10 W/mÇK or better can be achieved with our top sheet system.
The second option is an undercloaking system. It only requires ‘one fix’ when it comes to infilling with polystyrene as no top sheet is required. The undercloaking system uses one panel which fits within the floor beam depth as well as falling beneath the level of the beam to allow for complete thermal coverage. U-values from 0.08 W/mÇK or better can be achieved utilising the undercloaking system.
Combining both high performance expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation and structural
grade reinforced concrete, the beam and EPS poly flooring offers excellent thermal properties as well as ease of installation, making it ideal for housebuilders and specialist contractors.
Key features:
– Excellent thermal efficiency
– Ease of installation
– High structural integrity
WHY CHOOSE FP MCCANN FOR YOUR PRECAST CONCRETE FLOORING
When choosing a precast concrete flooring manufacturer, experience, reliability, and expertise matter. FP McCann is not just a supplier; we are a partner invested in the success of your project.
You can be assured our range and types of precast concrete flooring, as well as the rest of our precast concrete products, are manufactured in controlled environments, ensuring consistent quality and performance.
We adhere to strict industry standards and regulations, including BS EN standards, to ensure that our products meet the technical and safety requirements of modern construction projects.
With over four decades of experience in precast concrete manufacturing, we understand the demands of the construction industry better than anyone. Our technical knowledge, combined with our ability to adapt and innovate, ensures that our products meet the highest standards of quality and performance.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our precast concrete products are designed and manufactured with environmental responsibility in mind. From using recycled materials to improving thermal efficiency and minimising waste, we offer solutions that contribute to the long-term sustainability of the built environment.
Contact our team here at FP McCann today to discuss your project requirements and find out how our precast concrete solutions can help you achieve your goals efficiently and cost-effectively.