NoIdentity
Registered User
- Messages
- 14
the loaded area of a block on its flat is 215mm x 440mm and not 100 x 440. But really a wall will buckle before it crushes due to its slenderness. Your real issue here is the shape of your slab and not the strength of the blocks. you need to cast it in sections due to 1 length being far greater than the other and make sure the bigger diameter steel bars are going in the correct direction.
you know a good structural engineer will save you the cost of his fee with a reduction in materials. you should consider one for this job.
Hi NoIdentity,
I am a civil engineer.The general rule of thumb is that blockwork can be used for up to 4 stories before it becomes price uncompetitive.
I will give you some examples: 4 storey building, all load bearing walls laid on flat - 1st storey = 20N block, 2nd & 3rd storey 10N block, 4th storey 5N block.All floors precast slab & screed.
Two storey on my road: 1st & 2nd storey 5N block on flat.1st floor precast slab & screed - v. good builder.
Two storey in Cavan: 1st & 2nd storey 5N block on edge.1st floor precast slab & screed - self build.I have been in the house and there is no issues and house was 3 years old at the time.
The reality is that there is a lack of consistency generally among structural engineers & Architects.I understand that you have a tight budget but it sounds like you don't plan on getting it signed off.A house without a cert of compliance from a professional with P.I insurance will be questioned as regards it resaleability.If you choose to get it signed off then that professional will advise on his/her requirements for the blockwork in question.
Personally I would go for the 5N block on flat option for strength purposes as once you have solid foundations you will never have an issue with your home - you won't get a silk purse from a pig's ear.
Hi NoIdentity,
I am a civil engineer.The general rule of thumb is that blockwork can be used for up to 4 stories before it becomes price uncompetitive.
I will give you some examples: 4 storey building, all load bearing walls laid on flat - 1st storey = 20N block, 2nd & 3rd storey 10N block, 4th storey 5N block.All floors precast slab & screed.
Two storey on my road: 1st & 2nd storey 5N block on flat.1st floor precast slab & screed - v. good builder.
Two storey in Cavan: 1st & 2nd storey 5N block on edge.1st floor precast slab & screed - self build.I have been in the house and there is no issues and house was 3 years old at the time.
The reality is that there is a lack of consistency generally among structural engineers & Architects.I understand that you have a tight budget but it sounds like you don't plan on getting it signed off.A house without a cert of compliance from a professional with P.I insurance will be questioned as regards it resaleability.If you choose to get it signed off then that professional will advise on his/her requirements for the blockwork in question.
Personally I would go for the 5N block on flat option for strength purposes as once you have solid foundations you will never have an issue with your home - you won't get a silk purse from a pig's ear.
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