Designing an elevated concreteslab on pier and beam for a residence
Designing an elevated concreteslab on pier and beam for a residence
(OP)
I have been contacted to design a new lakeside home foundation system utilizing a concrete slab supported by a pier (drilled shafts )and concrete beam system. Floor will be elevated approx. 5' above existing ground line. Floor space of 1800 to 2200 Sq. Ft. Hints on slab thickness, reinforcing will be appreciated Wind forces are of little concern. Existing supporting soil is sufficient at about4' deep.






RE: Designing an elevated concreteslab on pier and beam for a residence
If you are one, I suggest that you start the ball rolling by giving us your ideas on how to solve the problem.
RE: Designing an elevated concreteslab on pier and beam for a residence
The house will be elevated, but will the space underneath be used for anything? Will it be open or enclosed? This will dictate some design decisions, like lateral load resisting system, pier spacing, and ongoing soil weathering, erosion, and wet/dry cycling.
Pier capacity may dictate spacing of piers. Closer spacing means you will have smaller structural members, and lower slab flexural strength requirements.
I'd pick a contractor now and find out what kind of pier/pile and forming system he knows, since that will dictate the structural systems available to you. You will likely have to use a commercial builder, since very few residential builders have the ability to construct an elevated concrete floor with any precision.
Do NOT use any kind of permanent form that is wood or metal if the underside of the slab will be open to weather. You might consider one of the expanded foam floor forms. You could then design beams in the formed shape, with the forms set level on low falsework. You would need to cover or enclose the foam once done.
Be sure you are not reaching beyond your expertise, and hire a structural if you see that happening.
RE: Designing an elevated concreteslab on pier and beam for a residence
Wind is always a concern.
RE: Designing an elevated concreteslab on pier and beam for a residence
agree with TX about the soil. also, if it IS adequate at 4 ft deep, then why the drilled shafts?
agree with JAE. wind is always a concern.
Just because my diploma says bach of CE, I would never attempt to design a stormwater retention system.
RE: Designing an elevated concreteslab on pier and beam for a residence
Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
Motto: KISS
Motivation: Don't ask