Flat Slab – Types, Uses, Advantages And Disadvantages


What Is Flat Slab:

Flat slab is an RCC slab built monolithically with supporting columns and reinforced in two or more directions. Beams are not provided to support the slab. The loads are directly transferred to the columns.

In flat slabs, the columns are provided with enlarged heads called capitals or column heads. The thickness of slab over columns is also increased to support heavy loads and the thickened part of the slab is called drop panel.

For lighter loads the column heads and drop panels are eliminated, such flat slab with constant thickness supported on prismatic columns are called flat plate.

Types Of Flat Slab:

1 Flat slab with drop panel.

2 Flat slab with column head.

3 Flat slab with drop panel and column head.

4 Flat slab without drop panel and column head.

flat slab

Uses Of Flat Slab:

1. Flat slabs are mostly used in large industrial structures, parking garages, ramps, warehouse, high rise buildings and hotels.

2. They are also used where uses of beams are not required.

3. Or where the structure requires less formwork.

Advantages Of Flat Slabs:

1. It reduces the overall height of the structure.

2. Flat slabs are capable to carry concentrated loads.

3. Requires less formwork.

4. As reinforcement detailing of flat slabs is simple it is easy to place.

5. Better quality control.

6. Installation of sprinkler and other piping and utilities are easier due to absent of beams.

7. It gives a better appearance and better diffusion of light.

8. Better fire resistant than other floor systems.

9. Fast construction.

Disadvantages Of Flat Slabs:

The disadvantages of flat slabs are as following:

1. In flat plate system, construction of large span is not possible.

2. Use of drop panels may interfere with larger mechanical ducting.

3. Not suitable for masonry partitions (Supporting brittle).

4. The thickness of flat plate slab is higher compared to the typical RCC two way slab.

Also Read – WHAT IS PLOT AREA, CARPET AREA, BUILT UP AREA, SUPER BUILT UP AREA & SETBACK AREA.

3 thoughts on “Flat Slab – Types, Uses, Advantages And Disadvantages”

Leave a Comment