2.4.3 Floor structure

2.4.3 Floor structure

2.4.3.1 Reinforced concrete construction

Cracks, variable in direction and depth Often cracks will form in reinforced concrete including slab-on-ground construction, suspended slab floors, stair flights, landings and balconies or the like. Cracking will commonly result from one or more of the following causes: differential shrinkage; foundation movement; inadequate support; deformation duc to creep; thermal movements: or corrosion of steel reinforcement.

Small cracks may not be harmful in themselves, but if they allow moisture to penetrate readily to the reinforcement and cause progressive corrosion, the problem may become serious.