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HomeMy WebLinkAbout03603 FLOOR SYSTEM AND SLABS -ON -GRADE If a basement is constructed the floor would likely be a slab -on- grade. We judge potential risk of differential movement and associated damage will be low to moderate for slab -on -grade construction supported by the clay at this site. Performance of a slab -on -grade basement floor will be enhanced if wetting of the subsoils is prevented. The most positive method to mitigate floor movement is the construction of a structural floor with an air space between the floor and the subgrade soils. The structural floor is supported by the foundation system and an excellent choice from a geotechnical viewpoint. Structurally supported floors result in increased construction costs as compared to slab -on -grade floors. We recommend the following precautions for slab -on -grade construction at this site. These precautions will not prevent movement from occurring, they tend to reduce damage when slab movement occurs. 1. Slabs should be constructed directly on the native clay. Provision of a sand or gravel layer below the slabs is not recommended because it increases the possibility of a single source of water wetting the entire area supporting the slab. 2. Slabs should be separated from exterior walls and interior bearing members with slip joints which allow free vertical movement of the slabs. 3. Use of slab bearing partitions should be minimized. Where such partitions are necessary, a float allowing at least 2 inches of free vertical slab movement should be used. Doorways and staircases should be designed to allow vertical movement of slabs. To limit damage in the event of slab movement, sheetrock should not extend to the floor. CHARLOTTE STUART PARCEL 6, MOUNTAIN SPRINGS RANCH 6 CTLIT JOB NO. GS -3434 -"— Scale: 1"= 40' • 7 • TH -1 • , 109 ;Ion OF EXPLORATORY BORINGS Fig. 2