The floor is generally an afterthought in many building projects, renovations and real estate transactions. But the floor is literally what we are all standing on and it is an integral part of any residence. When it comes to floors, there are several options available for anyone starting a major renovation. For the home buyer, it is important to keep in mind the different conditions provided by different types of floors.
The first type of floor to be concerned with is the sub floor. The sub floor is usually underneath the floor people walk on, though sometimes there is not differentiation between the sub floor and the proper floor. Usually the sub floor is part of the support structure of the building. Supporting floors usually use a solid concrete slab or else beams or joists to carry the weight of the house. Often a supporting sub floor is in the basement. The sub floor may also house components such as heating and air conditioning ducts.
The ground floor may be synonymous with the sub floor if it is below ground level. However, a true ground floor will be built right on top of the sub floor at ground level. Before laying down a ground floor or sub floor, the landscape is flattened and the soil packed so that the earth’s surface is level and ready to support a house. Often, a grid of rebar is added to a ground floor to add extra stability.
Upper floors, in wood framed houses are usually built with centered joists between 30 to 40 centimeters apart. Heavier floors require much closer spacing between the joists than that of lighter floors. If there is too much space between load bearing walls, an upper floor will utilize a cross beam of heavy material, usually laminated wood or a metal I-beam. This will ensure the floor can handle what weight of the house it needs to hold.
There are several types of special floor constructions aimed to solve specific problems and address particular needs. A “floating floor” is layered on top of an existing floor to reduce noise or vibration between stories. Glass floors are often found in hotel lobbies, but can add an element of luxury to a residential structure. A “nightingale floor” makes a noise when an intruder steps on it and improves the security of a residence. A raised floor is usually used when it is necessary to frequently access any utilities, such as wiring or piping that may run underneath. A sprung floor is often found in dance clubs and gyms as springs under the floor improve performance and safety for performers and athletes.
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