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INSTRUCTOR: Alexander Newman, P.E., F.ASCE
Purpose and Background
Slabs on grade are deceptively simple, yet the problems they generate-settlement, heave, cracking, curling, joint deterioration-are among the most common in building construction. We examine practical issues in specifying slabs on grade and in their renovation. Everyday dilemmas, such as whether to reinforce the slab or not, how thick it should be, does it really need a vapor retarder-and what about that sand layer underneath?-are examined and debated. Many other practical questions, such as the slab details at the foundation perimeter and at the joints, how to design the floors on ground for heavy concentrated loads, and in which circumstances ACI 318 applies, are discussed as well. The instructor shares valuable insights gained during decades of design and forensic experience and discusses proven design solutions as well as those that have been less reliable.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Navigate with confidence the current methods of designing slabs on grade
- Explain practical design solutions for various building uses and soil conditions
- Recognize what causes common slab problems and how best to remediate them
- Apply the changes in the latest design practices for slabs on grade
- Differentiate when slabs on grade are considered structural elements and when they are not
- Minimize the effects of shrinkage and curling
- Explain the available design procedures for resisting heavy concentrated loads
- Identify various kinds of slab cracks and surface defects and the best ways of repairing them
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Achievement of the learning outcomes by attendees will be assessed through a short post-test (true-false, multiple choice and fill in the blank questions), homework, and discussion.
Who Should Attend?
- Structural Engineers
- Civil Engineers
- Plant and Facility Managers
- Concrete Contractors
- Construction Attorneys
Outline
DAY 1
- Design of Slabs on Grade
- Types of slabs on grade
- Joints
- Plain and reinforced floors on ground
- Selecting slab thickness
- Structural design of slabs on grade
- Vapor retarders
- Slab finish tolerances
- Surface treatments
- Interactive Q&A session
- Assignment of Independent Study
DAY 2
- Interactive Discussion of Independent Study
- Renovation of Slabs on Grade
- Causes of slab deterioration
- Investigation
- Settlement and heave
- Cracks
- Surface defects and curling
- Joint problems
- Moisture problems and chemical attack
- Slab replacement
- Repairing deteriorated toppings and hardeners
- References for further study
- Final Interactive Q&A session
How to Earn your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
This course is worth .4 CEUs/4 PDHs. To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short on-line post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 60 days of the course.