Floors – Ground Floor & Upper Floor – Types
In building construction, floors are important structural elements that provide a level surface for occupants and support loads within a building. For ITI Draughtsman Civil students, understanding the types of floors used in ground and upper levels is essential for preparing accurate construction drawings and plans.
1. Definition of Floor
A floor is a horizontal structural component of a building that divides it into different levels. It provides a working and living surface and transfers loads to the foundation or supporting structure. Floors must be strong, durable, and capable of resisting wear and tear.
2. Ground Floor
The ground floor is the lowest floor of a building, which rests directly on the soil. It is constructed over a prepared subgrade and is supported by the ground itself rather than beams or columns.
Construction of Ground Floor
- Preparation of subsoil by leveling and compacting.
- Laying a layer of sand or gravel as a base.
- Providing a damp-proof course (DPC) to prevent moisture.
- Adding a concrete base layer.
- Finishing with floor covering such as tiles or cement finish.
Types of Ground Floors
(a) Earthen Floor
- Made of compacted soil mixed with cow dung.
- Low cost and simple construction.
- Common in rural areas.
- Not durable and requires frequent maintenance.
(b) Brick Floor
- Constructed using bricks laid on edge or flat.
- More durable than earthen floors.
- Used in warehouses and rural buildings.
(c) Cement Concrete Floor
- Made of cement, sand, and aggregate.
- Strong, durable, and commonly used.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
(d) Stone Floor
- Constructed using stone slabs like granite or marble.
- Very durable and attractive.
- Used in residential and public buildings.
(e) Tile Floor
- Uses ceramic or vitrified tiles.
- Provides a smooth and decorative finish.
- Widely used in modern houses.
3. Upper Floor
Upper floors are the floors above the ground level. These floors are supported by beams, columns, or load-bearing walls. They must be designed to safely carry loads and provide stability to the structure.
Requirements of Upper Floors
- Strength to carry live and dead loads.
- Sound insulation.
- Fire resistance.
- Thermal insulation.
- Durability and low maintenance.
Types of Upper Floors
(a) Timber Floor
- Constructed using wooden joists and planks.
- Light in weight and easy to construct.
- Used in residential buildings.
- Less durable and prone to fire and termite attack.
(b) Jack Arch Floor
- Consists of brick arches supported on steel beams.
- Strong and fire-resistant.
- Used in old buildings.
(c) Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) Floor
- Most commonly used in modern construction.
- Made of concrete reinforced with steel bars.
- Strong, durable, and fire-resistant.
- Can be cast in situ or precast.
(d) Precast Concrete Floor
- Manufactured in factories and assembled on site.
- Quick construction and good quality control.
(e) Steel Floor
- Uses steel beams and plates.
- High strength and suitable for industrial buildings.
4. Floor Finishes
Floor finishes are the top layers provided to give a smooth, durable, and attractive surface. Common floor finishes include:
- Cement finish
- Tile finish
- Marble and granite finish
- Wooden finish
5. Importance of Floors
- Provide a level surface for use.
- Support loads of furniture and occupants.
- Improve the appearance of the building.
- Ensure safety and comfort.
Role of Draughtsman Civil
A Draughtsman Civil prepares detailed drawings showing floor layouts, sections, and construction details. Proper representation of floor types helps engineers and workers to execute construction accurately.
Conclusion
Floors are essential components of any building, whether ground or upper levels. Different types of floors are used depending on the purpose, cost, and structural requirements. Ground floors rest on soil, while upper floors are supported by structural members like beams and columns.
Understanding various floor types helps ITI Draughtsman Civil students in designing safe, durable, and efficient buildings.