What’s the difference between Slab-On-Ground and Suspended Slab?
A slab-on-ground is supported on the subsoil and is usually reinforced with reinforcing bars or welded wire mesh.
A suspended slab (or structural slab) spans between supports and must be engineered. It is suspended above the ground on steel joists or beams. These joists or beams are supported by columns or walls, and the slab is then poured over the top. The slab is then reinforced with steel rebar or mesh, which provides additional strength and stability.
Photo 1 – Steel Beam
The Steel beam supports the Floor joists and entire floor system. The garage floor has a torch-on membrane and 4″ concrete slab.
Photo 2 – Shop Area Under Garage
Normally the space under a garage is backfilled and the concrete floor is poured slab on grade. In this home a Shop area has been created.
Diagram 1 – Suspended Slab Floor System Design
