Domestic floors: Part 1: Construction, insulation and damp proofing
BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries.
Domestic floors: Part 1: Construction, insulation and damp proofing (GG28/1 revised 2015) was written by Rupert Pool and Chris Scivyer, and published by BRE on 30 March 2015. It is part 1 of a 5-part Good Building Guide that considers the construction of new and replacement domestic floors and their repair. It updates guidance published in 1997.
The 8-page part 1 describes ground floor construction in new buildings and in refurbishment work where floors are being replaced. It is concerned mainly with domestic buildings, but some recommendations will also apply to other types of building.
It describes the types of ground floors commonly used in domestic properties; ground-supported concrete slab floors, suspended concrete floors (including beam and block) and suspended timber floors. It provides information on how to construct each type of floor and gives advice on the positioning of damp-proof membranes (DPMs) and thermal insulation.
In particular, it gives details of; damp proofing, vapour-control layers, drying times for concrete bases and screeds, positions for thermal insulation. It does not deal with; structural requirements, specific values or thicknesses of thermal insulation, requirements for the exclusion of radon and methane or heated screeds.
The contents of part 1 are:
- Introduction.
- Ground-supported concrete slabs.
- Suspended concrete (beam and block or plank).
- Suspended timber.
- Screeds for concrete bases.
- Thermal insulation and membranes for concrete bases.
- Chipboard.
- Conclusion.
- References.
- Further reading.
Parts 2–5 explain how to assess different types of floor construction for replacement or repair, and how to repair them.
[edit] Find out more.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- BRE articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz.
- BREEAM.
- Building Research Establishment.
- Concrete slab.
- Damp proofing.
- Damp-proof membrane.
- Floor definition.
- Floor insulation.
- Flooring defects.
- Floors.
- Insulation for ground floors.
- Laminate flooring.
- Screed.
- Thermal insulation.
- Types of flooring.
- Vapour-control layer.
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.