Beam and Block Flooring

What is Beam and Block Flooring?

Concrete T-beam flooring – or block and beam flooring – is a traditional building method involving the use of reinforced concrete beams with a T-shaped cross section. The vertical section of the beam below the compression flange distributes force and resists shear stress, making the T-shape effective at withstanding heavy loads. It’s an effective solution for both upper- and lower-level floors.

Mexboro’s concrete T-beams are economical, versatile, and quick to install, making them an excellent choice for a variety of projects. Our prestressed concrete floor beams come in dimensions of 155mm and 220mm. – for more detailed specifications, read through our concrete T-beam flooring brochure below.

Along with supplying your beams, we’ll take charge of supplying design layout drawings, technical details, and calculations for Building Regulations approval. Plus, we can even install the beams for you!

Get a competitively priced quote using our online contact form or call us on 01803 558025 today.

How do Block and Beam Floors Work?

Block and beam floors are a versatile and efficient system made up of precast concrete beams and blocks. Here’s how it works:

  1. The first step is to determine the layout and dimensions of your flooring project. This includes calculating the required load-bearing capacity and considering any specific design requirements.
  2. Precast concrete beams are manufactured with reinforced steel inside them. These beams are placed across the span of the floor, providing structural support.
  3. Concrete blocks, also known as infill blocks, are then placed between the beams. These blocks fit snugly and are supported by the beams, creating a solid base for the flooring.
  4. The beams and blocks are laid out according to the design plan. They’re carefully positioned and securely connected to guarantee stability.
  5. Once the beams and blocks are in place, the floor surface can be finished with screed, which is a layer of concrete that is levelled and smoothed to create a suitable surface for various floor coverings such as tiles, carpet, or laminate.

Benefits of Concrete Beam and Block Flooring

Minimal Site Preparation

Installing beam and block flooring is much easier than other flooring types. Just remove the topsoil and vegetation to create a minimum void of 75mm (or 150mm for clay) between the floor and the ground. 

No Compaction or Back-Fill

T-beams distribute the load evenly, reducing pressure on the ground and eliminating concerns about ground heave issues.

Weatherproof

You can start construction right away with precast beams, as they won’t be affected by weather conditions like rain or wind.

Easy to Handle

Beams and blocks can be easily managed with forklifts or cranes. Smaller lengths can be handled manually, after conducting a risk assessment.

Economical

The T-shaped design reduces the amount of concrete required and maintains structural integrity, while the use of precast T-beams can speed up construction and reduce labour costs.

Quick to Install

The precast nature of the beams and blocks allows you to install them quickly and efficiently. A single person can lay 60 square metres in a day.

Fewer Foundations Needed

Double or triple beams can often support internal partition walls, saving you the time and money of building foundations.

Insulated

T-beam flooring’s mass and density help reduce sound transmission and regulate indoor temperatures, improving the comfort and energy efficiency of the building.

Durable

T-beam flooring made of concrete is highly durable, capable of withstanding heavy loads, impact, abrasion, and harsh environmental conditions. Its longevity leads to lower maintenance and repair costs over the structure’s lifespan. It’s also draught-proof, rot-proof, and fire-resistant.

Pre-Stressed 155 mm and 220 mm Floor Beam Systems

We manufacture our precast beam and block flooring at our cutting-edge manufacturing plant in Devon. We always keep a wide selection of 155 mm and 220 mm beams in stock, available in various lengths to fulfil any order.

Mexboro concrete T beam specs

Beam and Block Flooring Installation

We’re more than just beam suppliers – we offer a complete turnkey service that makes your experience hassle-free. From design layout drawings to calculations for Building Regulations approval, we can take care of it all. If you prefer, we can even handle the installation process for you.*

We know how important it is to keep your project on schedule, which is why our installers will coordinate with you to find a time and date that works best. Once on site, they’ll work hand-in-hand with your team to install your beams quickly, safely, and to the highest standard.

*Please keep in mind that our installation service is exclusive to the beam and block flooring supplied by ourselves. We do not install products from third-parties.

Why Choose Mexboro as your Beam and Block Flooring Supplier?

Mexboro is the premier choice for precast concrete in the South. With a legacy spanning over 50 years, we have the expertise to create stunning and long-lasting pieces that will elevate your building while withstanding the passage of time.

Full Service: From design to installation, Mexboro will handle every stage of the creation process. No matter how big or small the job, we’ll work with you to design T-beam flooring perfectly suited to your requirements. We’ll then combine refined methods with exceptional quality concrete to create flooring that lasts a lifetime.

Quality Control: We thoroughly test our flooring with third-party institutions and our own UKAS-calibrated testing equipment. Dimensional checks are also carried out, both when we set out the prestressed casting beds, and when storing the beams in our yard prior to transportation.

Beam and Block Flooring FAQs

is block and beam flooring cheaper than a concrete slab?

In most cases, yes! Beam and block flooring is quicker to install and requires less groundwork than concrete slabs, which can help save on labour costs. It also tends to be more budget friendly as it requires less concrete and steel reinforcement.

Can beam and block floors be installed in bad weather?

Yes, beam and block floors can generally be installed in bad weather. If you have any doubts, however, feel free to reach out to our team – we’ll be able to provide you with specific recommendations regarding the conditions of your installation.

Do block and beam floors require ventilation?

Precast block and beam floors don’t usually require ventilation for their voids. While ventilation needs may vary by local regulations and project designs, the voids in block and beam floors are primarily for structural support and weight reduction, not for habitable spaces. You should still provide ventilation for adjacent or enclosed spaces to maintain air quality and prevent moisture buildup.

If you’re not sure if ventilation will be required for your project, don’t hesitate to talk with our team. We’ll be happy to look at your specific circumstances and determine whether ventilation will be needed.

How far can beam and block flooring span?

The span of beam and block flooring can vary depending on the specific design and materials used. Generally, it can span between 3 to 6 metres (10 to 20 feet) without the need for additional support.

If you’re not sure of the exact span your project requires, get in touch. We’ll look at factors such as load requirements, beam size, and other structural considerations to help you identify the exact component your building needs.

Do you need a DPM on a beam and block floor?

Yes, a DPM (Damp Proof Membrane) is typically required on a beam and block floor. A DPM is essential to prevent moisture from rising through the floor and causing damage. It acts as a barrier, making sure the floor remains dry and free from dampness. Installing a DPM is a recommended step in the construction process to enhance the longevity and integrity of the floor.

What does a block and beam floor sit on?

A block and beam floor usually rests on supporting walls or foundations. The blocks and beams are placed horizontally across the walls, forming a sturdy foundation for the floor. In some cases, double or triple beams can even bear the weight of internal partition walls, which can save you the hassle and expense of constructing additional foundations.

How much preparation is required to install beam and block floors?

Installing beam and block floors requires some preparation, but usually less than other types of flooring. You’ll need to start by assessing the site conditions and preparing the ground (such as through excavation and compaction). You’ll then need to calculate the required number and spacing of beams based on the floor area and load-bearing requirements. Finally, you’ll need to coordinate the delivery of beams and blocks.

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