Ensuring the building structure is sturdy from the outset is very important in construction. Suspended ground beams without stone foundations are a practical choice when the land is difficult to excavate or the budget is limited.
This technique allows suspended ground beams to hang above the ground, remaining strong when properly designed and constructed. Let's take a look at the advantages and disadvantages, as well as the guidelines for making them, below!
What Is a Suspended Ground Beam?
A suspended ground beam is a concrete beam installed between columns without a stone foundation. This beam transfers the load from the walls to the primary foundation, but its position is suspended and directly attached to the columns.
The term “suspended ground beam without foundation” does not mean that there is no foundation at all, but rather that the beam does not rely on an extended stone foundation. This system is typically used in 2-story houses or buildings that want to use the underside area as an open space, such as for a garage, garden, or utility line.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Suspended Ground Beam
Every construction method has its advantages and challenges, and suspended ground beams without foundations are no exception. Understanding both sides is essential so that building owners and contractors can adjust the design, budget, and construction techniques from the very beginning.
Advantages of Suspended Ground Beam
Here are some advantages to consider when choosing the proper construction for your building:
1. Save on Foundation Materials
By eliminating the stone foundation typically used under the walls, material and labor costs can be significantly reduced. This method is suitable for homeowners who want to optimize their construction budget.
Savings are primarily realized in the volume of stone, mortar, and foundation construction. As a result, funds can be redirected to strengthen columns or improve concrete quality elsewhere.
2. More Spacious Underfloor Area
Without an extended foundation, the area under the walls becomes more flexible. You can use it for drainage, water installation lines, or even storage space without being obstructed by the foundation structure. This freedom enables architectural design flexibility, especially in limited land. Buildings with garages or service rooms under the main floor will significantly benefit from this concept.
3. Accelerated Upper Structure Work
The upper-floor and wall construction can be completed more quickly because the ground beam is attached to the columns from the start. Workers do not need to wait for the stone foundation to be completed, allowing the construction schedule to be shortened.
This also facilitates coordination between works, such as brick wall installation and mechanical installation. In projects with tight deadlines, time savings like this are significantly helpful.
4. Controlled Load Distribution
The load of the walls is transferred directly to the columns, then to the primary foundation, so that the compressive force is concentrated and easier to calculate.
This method allows structural engineers to calculate reinforcement requirements with greater precision. Directly distributed loads minimize the risk of cracking due to uneven distribution.
Read also: The House Foundation Cost Estimation Details in 2025
Disadvantages of Suspended Ground Beam
Suspended ground beams without foundations also have several limitations. Some of these are:
1. Columns Must Be Very Strong
All building loads are transferred through the columns, so the columns must be larger and more heavily reinforced than in buildings with conventional beams. If the columns do not meet the standards, the risk of structural failure increases, especially during earthquakes or strong winds.
The construction of columns with a minimum concrete quality of K-225 or K-250 is a crucial requirement. The consistency of concrete casting and compaction should also not be ignored.
2. Careful Structural Calculations are Necessary
Planning by a structural engineer is essential to ensure that the dimensions of the footings, the spacing between reinforcement bars, and the column strength are appropriate for the load.
Calculation errors can cause deflection, cracks, or even partial collapse of the structure.
An analysis of dead loads, live loads, and lateral loads is required to ensure long-term safety. This stage should not be skipped or simplified.
3. Risk of Deflection Due to Incorrect Workmanship
Unstable formwork or reinforcement that shifts during casting can cause beam deflection.
If this deflection is left untreated, the walls above it could crack, and the doors or windows could become misaligned. The casting process must use a vibrator to ensure the concrete is compact and free of cavities. Strict supervision during the work is key to preventing this problem.
Functions of Suspended Ground Beam
In addition to its advantages and disadvantages, it is essential to understand the primary role of the suspended Ground Beam in building structures. By knowing its specific functions, you can ensure the overall strength of the construction is as planned. Here are some of its functions:
1. Connecting Columns
A suspended ground beam connects columns, keeping them upright and locked together. This connecting role is essential to prevent column shifting due to lateral pressure.
Without ground beams, columns can shift or tilt, especially during minor earthquakes. This binding function keeps the entire building frame stable.
2. Distributing Wall Loads
With a suspended ground beam, wall loads are distributed to the columns and then to the main foundation. This method distributes the load evenly and reduces excessive pressure on the brick walls.
Evenly distributed loads help walls last longer without cracking. This is especially important for walls that support roofs or upper floors.
3. Preventing Wall Cracks
Suspended ground beam keeps walls straight and prevents minor cracks. This keeps walls looking neat and strong.
4. Upper Floor Support
In some designs, suspended ground beams can also be designed as the main structural element. Floor beams that rest on beams receive better load distribution. This makes the floor more sturdy and less prone to deflecting. As a result, the space on the upper floor feels stable and safe.
Read also: Minimalist 2-Story House Facade Design Ideas
How to Make Suspended Ground Beams
Want to install suspended ground beams without a foundation in your home? Here is a guide to installing suspended ground beams correctly. Homeowners or contractors should follow standard technical steps to ensure the final result is sturdy and durable.
1. Planning
Calculate the total load of the building, including dead, live, and lateral loads. Determine the slab dimensions, the amount of reinforcement, and the required concrete quality.
Consult these calculations with the construction team to ensure safe and efficient results. Careful planning will prevent cost overruns during the process.
2. Column Preparation
Ensure that the columns have been cast in concrete of at least K-225 quality and have reinforcement in accordance with the design. Check the verticality and sturdiness of the columns, as the ground beams will depend on this strength.
If defects are found, make repairs before proceeding to the next stage. Good columns ensure the structural integrity of the ground beam.
3. Mark the Ground Beam Position
Measure the ground beam height per the plan and then mark it on each column. Ensure the markings are even so the ground beam does not tilt after installation. Accuracy at this stage is important so that the load is evenly distributed. Minor differences can have a significant impact on wall alignment.
4. Install Formwork
Build strong and tight wooden or plywood formwork. The formwork must withstand the pressure of wet concrete without changing shape.
Use additional supports to prevent shifting. Make sure the formwork joints do not leak so that the concrete does not come out.
5. Assemble Reinforcement
Next, arrange the primary reinforcement and stirrups in accordance with the calculations. Tie them with concrete wire to prevent shifting during casting.
Ensure that the reinforcement spacing is even and meets standards. Neat reinforcement will increase the strength of the foundationless ground beam.
6. Concrete Casting
Pour the concrete slowly and evenly into the formwork. Use a vibrator to remove air, ensuring the concrete is compact and void-free. Recheck the concrete thickness throughout. Proper casting ensures the ground beam's long-term strength.
7. Concrete Curing
Water the concrete regularly for at least seven days to maintain moisture and prevent premature cracking. Avoid placing heavy loads on the ground beam during the curing period.
This process helps the concrete reach its optimal strength. Proper curing will extend the structure's durability.
8. Formwork Removal
Remove the formwork after the concrete has reached its initial strength, usually 7–14 days. Do this carefully to avoid damaging the ground beam edges.
After removal, recheck the ground beam surface for cracks or defects. If there is minor damage, repair it immediately.
9. Final Inspection
Inspect the entire ground beam and its connection to the column. Ensure there are no cracks, deflections, or peeling concrete.
This inspection is crucial to ensure the ground beam is ready to support the load of the walls and upper floors. Record the inspection results as project documentation.
That is all the comprehensive explanation of a suspended ground beam without foundations, which can serve as a guide when designing your building structure.
The suspended ground beam application requires careful calculation and workmanship, but it offers significant advantages in space efficiency and cost.
If missed, errors at this stage can affect the overall strength and longevity of the building.
In addition to proper planning, ensure that the entire construction project uses high-quality materials, especially during the beam and column casting.
For optimal results, use Semen Merah Putih Watershield, a premium multi-purpose product from Semen Merah Putih featuring water-repellent technology that provides triple protection against water seepage from outside, inside, and soil or capillary water.
Semen Merah Putih Watershield is suitable for various applications, from foundations, concrete slabs, castings, brickwork, plastering, to rendering. These advantages make it ideal for suspended ground beams that require high strength and durability compared with conventional concrete.
Planning or building a construction project? Choose high-quality cement for the best results. Rely on Semen Merah Putih Watershield as the solution to ensure your suspended ground beam structure is sturdy and durable.
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