Advantages and Disadvantages of Flat Slabs

1

Flexibility in room layout.

• Partition walls can be placed anywhere.
• Offers a variety of room layout to the owner.
• False ceilings can be omitted.

2

Reinforcement placement is easier.

As reinforcement detailing of flat slab is simple, it is easier to place

3

Ease of Framework installation.

Big table framework can be used in flat slab

4

Building height can be reduced.

• As no beam is used, floor height can be reduced and consequently the building height will be reduced.
• Approximately 10% of the vertical member could be saved
• Foundation load will also reduce.

5

Less construction time.

Use of big table framework helps to reduce construction time

6

Prefabricated welded mesh.

• Standard sizes
• Less installation time
• Better quality control.

7

Auto sprinkler is easier.

1

Span length is medium.

In flat plate system, it is not possible to have large span.

2

Not suitable for supporting brittle (masonry) partitions

3

Use of drop panels may interfere with larger mechanical ducting

4

Critical middle strip deflection

In flat slabs, the middle strip deflection may be critical.

5

Higher slab thickness

Compared to typical reinforced concrete two way slab system, the thickness of flat plate slabs are higher.