Ground beams in construction
Beams are structural elements that transfer loads imposed along their length to their end points where the loads are transferred to walls, columns, foundations, and so on.
Ground beams are beams that are designed to span between pad foundations, piles and so on, as an alternative to traditional foundations.
|
Ground beams are generally constructed from concrete, and for low-rise buildings are commonly constructed in situ, however, as this can be relatively time-consuming method, the use of precast concrete ground beams has increased.
The advantages of using ground beams are that they are quicker to install than conventional footings, and allow uncertainties regarding ground conditions to be overcome. They also create a very accurate bearing level, reducing the amount of levelling up that is required prior to starting to build up the superstructure.
Ground beams may be used to support brick work, block work and so on, but may also be used at the edge of in situ concrete floor slabs, where they form permanent shuttering. They tend to be square or rectangular in section, and can be designed to incorporate notches, end details and sloping faces.
Precast ground beams are cast to the required lengths in an off-site factory and are then lowered into place on site, typically spanning between the tops of piles. Small in situ concrete ‘stitches’ are used to connect and bolt the beams securely to each other and the piles. Secondary beams can also be connected to the ground beam system to form a beam and block ground floor.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Embedding AI tools into architectural education
Beyond the render: LMU share how student led research is shaping the future of visualisation workflows.
Why document control still fails UK construction projects
A Chartered Quantity Surveyor explains what needs to change and how.
New planning reforms and Warm Homes Bill
Take centre stage at UK Construction Week London.
A brief run down of changes intentions from April in an onwards.
Reslating an ancient water mill
A rare opportunity to record, study and repair early vernacular roofs.
CIOB Apprentice of the Year 2025/26
Construction apprentice from Lincoln Mia Owen wins this years title.
Insulation solutions with less waste for a circular economy
Rob Firman, Technical and Specification Manager, Polyfoam XPS explains.
Recycled waste plastic in construction
Hierarchy, prevention to disposal, plastic types and approaches.
UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard V1 published
Free-to-access technical standard to enable robust proof of a decarbonising built environment.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Why talking about prostate cancer matters in construction.
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch up for free, subscribe and share with your network.
The Association of Consultant Architects recap
A reintroduction and recap of ACA President; Patrick Inglis' Autumn update.
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.