The Importance of Ground Beams in Piling Construction
Ground beams play a vital role in foundation construction, ensuring stability and load distribution across a building’s structure. When deciding which foundation technique to use in your construction project, it is crucial to consider ground beams, which offer a cost-effective solution for long-lasting foundations.
Read on to learn more about the importance of ground beams in piling construction.
What Are Ground Beams?
Ground beams are structural beams made of reinforced concrete that are used early on in construction projects. They can be used to replace other foundation techniques, like trench footings, to distribute weight evenly and create a strong and stable foundation.
Ground Beam Construction
In piling construction, ground beams are designed to link pile foundations or pad foundations, ensuring load distribution and stability. After site excavation and the placement of pad or pile foundations, formwork is installed into the ground beam area.
Once the formwork is checked for accuracy and watertightness, the beam reinforcement is positioned and secured. Concrete is then poured into the formwork, compacted and finished before being left to cure for 24 hours. Once completely dried, the ground beam can support brick walls or blockwork.
Alternatively, if pre-cast ground beams are preferred, these may be delivered to the site and lowered into place by crane. The ground beams can then be stitched together and tied to the pile foundation to secure them.
The steel reinforcement in ground beams provides critical tensile strength, helping the ground beams to withstand compressive and shearing forces. The reinforcement is fixed securely to the foundation ties to ensure a strong and durable connection.
The Benefits of Ground Beams
Concrete ground beams are a popular foundation material for many reasons. A key advantage is that ground beams are more versatile than other foundation types and can accommodate a wide range of site conditions, like poor soil quality or sloping grounds.
Ground beams can be constructed onsite, according to need, or offsite using cranes to transport and position them. This flexibility suits many types of construction projects, particularly those in locations where access may be difficult or terrain may be challenging.
Additionally, using ground beams in construction is a fast and cost-effective solution. Concrete can be laid quickly and requires less work to level up, allowing for faster project completion than traditional deep foundation methods.
Belowground
At Belowground Ltd, we provide a wide range of piling and underpinning services and offer a comprehensive selection of reinforced ground beams, slabs and pile caps.
With bases in London, Bristol and Exeter, we are the leading piling construction company in the South West of England. With over 25 years of experience and an in-depth knowledge of the latest construction practices, we are capable of tackling projects of all sizes and requirements.
If you have any questions about ground beams or slabs or wish to book one of our services, get in touch with us today.
