If you are a homeowner, the chances are high that you have seen or at least heard about beams. To put it simply, beams are essential horizontal structural elements of a building that transfer the loads among the columns located in the upper areas of a structure, its walls as well as the foundation. They are simply those structural elements that keep a house structurally sound by holding it together, particularly the upper parts of a house.
It is imperative to note that there are two main types of beams that professionals use in construction, including plinth beams and ground beams. Studies show that a significant number of Royal Oak, MI, homeowners don’t know much about these two types of beams. And this is why we want to discuss these two types of beams in detail, explaining not only the major differences between them, but the functions they serve as well. So, peruse the article and get to know.
So, what exactly are ground beams?
Also known as grade beams, ground beams are installed at the foundation level, somewhat closer to the ground, and are kept in place with the help of piers. Their main function is to offer much-needed support to joists, walls as well as other numerous structural parts of a house. In Royal Oak, MI, construction professionals usually install grade beams when the soil underneath the foundation is not robust and tough enough to support the building on the top.
It is worth noting that grade beams are made from concrete, which gives them their nearly unmatched structural benefits. In this regard, ground beams are not only unbreakable but are relatively easy to make. And based on Royal Oak, MI, homeowners’ preferences, can be customized into different shapes and sizes. They help evenly distribute and transfer the walls’ load to the ground. Royal Oak, MI contractors are huge fans of grade beams not only because they are super easy to install, but also due to their affordability and durability.
If you are currently looking to own a home, you must have a conversation with your contractor to gauge whether this particular type of beam is a great option for you. As you may have realized, ground beams can be a great option for you not only because of their unmatched strength but for their cost-effectiveness as well.
So, what exactly are plinth beams?
They are known as plinth beams simply because they are constructed at the plinth level. In case you were not aware, the plinth level is situated a little above ground level. And as opposed to their ground beam counterparts, plinth beams don’t require any form of reinforcement to either stand or provide support. But it is important to note that they must be built with extreme care bearing in mind that their breadth, as well as height, need to be perfect to ensure they function optimally. Whereas the plinth beams’ height largely depends on the type of structure they support, their thickness must be equal to the thickness of the wall they are designed to support.
So, what purpose do plinth beams serve?
Plinth beams have a very crucial function; they help erase differential, also referred to as settlement, from the structure of a house. Simply put, plinth beams help evenly distribute the load of the wall over the foundation. They are provided to prevent the propagation or extension of cracks from the foundation into the walls above when a foundation experiences settlement. And without settlement problems, there is no chance that breaks and cracks will spread to your home’s walls even if they occur in your foundation!
The bottom line:
make no mistake about it, the building and construction industry is full of complex terms and jargon that are quite difficult to grasp, especially if you are new to the industry. And if you are a prospective homeowner, it can be helpful to know and understand some of the most common terms used in the industry.