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
Homes, landlords. tenants and the new housing standards
What will it all mean?
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch-up on the latest episodes.
Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award 2026
Entries now open for this Electrical Contractors' Association award.
Traditional blue-grey slate from one of the oldest and largest UK slate quarries down in Cornwall.
There are plenty of sources with the potential to be redeveloped.
Change of use legislation breaths new life into buildings
A run down on Class MA of the General Permitted Development Order.
Solar generation in the historic environment
Success requires understanding each site in detail.
Level 6 Design, Construction and Management BSc
CIOB launches first-ever degree programme to develop the next generation of construction leaders.
Open for business as of April, with its 2026 prospectus and new pipeline of housing schemes.
The operational value of workforce health
Keeping projects moving. Incorporating unplanned absence and the importance of health, in operations.
A carbon case for indigenous slate
UK slate can offer clear embodied carbon advantages.
Costs and insolvencies mount for SMEs, despite growth
Construction sector under insolvency and wage bill pressure in part linked to National Insurance, says report.
The place for vitrified clay pipes in modern infrastructure
Why vitrified clay pipes are reclaiming their role in built projects.
Research by construction PR consultancy LMC published.
Roles and responsibilities of domestic clients
ACA Safety in Construction guide for domestic clients.
Fire door compliance in UK commercial buildings
Architect and manufacturer gives their low down.