Ground Slabs - the Secret Savings

In selection of the structural system for slabs on grade (slabs on the ground), not only the initial cost but maintenance costs over the expected life of the slab must be considered. Maintenance costs include repairs to jointing and cracking as well as increased maintenance of rolling equipment, such as forklifts, pallet movers and stackers, as they constantly traverse and further damage joints and cracks. Post-tensioned concrete slab on grade can be designed to eliminate or greatly reduce jointing and safeguard against cracking. The paper presents data to indicate the level of maintenance costs actually incurred in heavily trafficked slabs such as in distribution centres.