For floors, both load-bearing capacity and usability count. A floor that is sufficiently strong can still bend too much or vibrate annoyingly. Openings, heavier use and new supports change the principles.
Wooden floor and beam layer
The assessment looks at beam sizes, quality, span, supports and floor structure. Deflection and vibrations can play a role in addition to strength.
Prepare: Provide beam height, width, distance and any damage.
Detailed explanation and request: Wooden floor and beam layer
Concrete floor
With concrete floors, the floor system, reinforcement and support are decisive. A recess or additional load can influence the distribution of forces and local controls.
Prepare: Collect installation plans, reinforcement data and original calculations.
Steel plate concrete floor
The profiled steel plate and the concrete can work together constructively. The phase before hardening of concrete and any temporary support must also be coordinated.
Prepare: Provide the floor system, spans, plate details and installation plan.
Ground floor
A floor on ground wears differently than a cantilevered floor above a crawl space. The calculation must be consistent with the chosen system and the existing surface.
Prepare: Indicate the floor structure, soil or foundation data and the intended use.
Floor reinforcement for additional loads
An archive, aquarium, machine or heavy floor structure can cause additional strain locally or over a larger area. The position in relation to the bearing direction makes a difference.
Prepare: Indicate total weight, contact area and exact location.
Detailed explanation and request: Floor reinforcement for additional loads
Stairwell and video opening
An opening interrupts the original bearing path of the floor. Edge beams and beam constructions transfer the load to other load-bearing parts.
Prepare: Share the opening, beam direction and connecting stairs or balustrade.
Detailed explanation and request: Stairwell and video opening
Mezzanine and mezzanine floor
An extra floor requires its own supporting structure and appropriate support points. The planned use also determines which loads must be assumed.
Prepare: Indicate whether the floor is intended for living, office, storage or machinery.
Stairs and landing
A staircase transfers loads through handrails, stringers, plates or other designed components to the attachment points. Distortion and vibration can affect usability.
Prepare: Provide geometry, material, use and connection details.
Balcony and balcony attachment
With a balcony, the cantilever or support and the connection to the building are essential. The assessment may also include the existing anchorage and material condition.
Prepare: Share original details, dimensions, photos and damage information.
Detailed explanation and request: Balcony and balcony attachment
Balustrade and parapet
The barrier and attachment must be capable of transferring applicable loads. The material of the floor or balcony edge influences the connection options.
Prepare: Indicate use function, height, post distances and surface.
Data for the initial assessment
- Floor type and span
- Location of walls, beams and columns
- Existing and desired user function
- Weights and positions of heavy parts
From request to defined assignment
- Capture situation. Describe the location, existing condition and intended change.
- Review data. Discuss which documents are useful and what additional research is needed.
- Agree on scope. Record which checks, drawings and implementation phases are being developed.
- Fine-tune design. Please include changes in dimensions, material or use in the documents.
What determines the price?
The scope of the calculations, available data, required details and coordination determine the assignment. There is no single prize for this category that covers all situations. View the known starting prices and quote requests.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the weight per square meter not always enough?
A heavy load on small legs or a limited footplate can be locally decisive. Also provide dimensions and contact points.
Can I just make a recess in a concrete floor?
First determine which floor system and which reinforcement or prestressing are present. The location and size of the opening require a project-specific assessment.
Is deflection the same as failure?
No. Deflection describes deformation; a strength check examines the load-bearing capacity. Both can be relevant to the design.
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