Our Guide to Beam and Block Flooring

Beam and block flooring is one of the most widely used flooring solutions in modern construction, offering strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. As the UK continues to push for increased housebuilding and infrastructure development, finding reliable, efficient, and sustainable construction methods is more important than ever.

What is Beam and Block Flooring?

Beam and block flooring is a construction system that consists of precast concrete beams laid across supporting walls, with concrete blocks filling the gaps in between. This creates a solid, stable floor that is quick and easy to install.

It is widely used in residential and commercial buildings due to its strength and ability to span large distances without requiring additional support. The system is particularly effective for ground floors and upper floors (supply only) in multi-storey buildings.

Benefits of Beam and Block Flooring

Beam and block flooring offers several advantages over alternative flooring systems. It is fast and easy to install, thanks to its modular nature, allowing for quick assembly on-site. The precast concrete beams provide excellent structural integrity, ensuring a high load-bearing capacity. Additionally, this system contributes to better thermal and acoustic insulation, improving energy efficiency while reducing noise transfer.

Unlike traditional in-situ concrete floors, beam and block flooring requires minimal site preparation, making it a practical option for a range of building projects. It is also highly durable, resistant to rot, damp, and insect infestation, making it a low-maintenance flooring choice.

Typical Applications

Beam and block flooring is widely used across various sectors. In residential buildings, it is ideal for ground floors, extensions, and renovations. It is also commonly used in commercial properties such as office buildings, retail spaces, and industrial units. Additionally, this flooring system performs well in challenging ground conditions, such as sloping or poor load-bearing terrain, where other flooring solutions may struggle.

How to Install Beam and Block Flooring

The installation process follows a few key steps. First, the site must be prepared by ensuring that foundations and support walls are in place. Then, the precast concrete beams are positioned at appropriate intervals. Once the beams are in place, the infill blocks are laid between them to create a complete floor. Finally, a dry sand and cement mix is brushed over the floor to consolidate the structure, ensuring a secure and stable finish.

Because it’s a dry process, once installed, the flooring is immediately ready for further construction work, reducing downtime on site.

Beam and Block Flooring vs Other Flooring Systems

Compared to other flooring systems, beam and block offers distinct advantages. When contrasted with concrete slabs, it requires less site preparation and provides better load distribution, whereas concrete slabs may be preferable for large open-plan areas without internal walls.

When compared to suspended timber floors, beam and block flooring eliminates issues such as rot, insect damage, and creaking, offering a more durable alternative. Timber flooring, while lighter and easier to modify, lacks the longevity and strength of concrete.

Additionally, beam and block flooring provides an immediate load-bearing capability, unlike screed systems, which require curing time before they can be used.

Cost of Beam and Block Flooring

Several factors influence the cost of a beam and block floor, including the size of the project, material and labour costs, and any customisation needs such as specialised beam sizes or reinforced designs.

On average, beam and block flooring costs approx £35 per square metre, but it’s best to get a tailored quote based on your project’s specifications.

Sustainability Benefits of Milbank Beam and Block Flooring

At Milbank Concrete Products, we are committed to sustainability. Our beam and block flooring is designed to reduce environmental impact while maintaining superior performance.

We have introduced a cutting-edge cement replacement in our concrete mixes, reducing cement content by up to 21% without compromising strength. This innovation significantly lowers CO2 emissions, contributing to greener construction.

Concrete flooring also has a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements. At the end of its life cycle, it can be recycled and repurposed, minimising landfill waste. Additionally, the thermal mass of concrete helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling demands, while the insulation properties of beam and block flooring further improve energy efficiency.

Why Choose Milbank for Your Beam and Block Flooring?

With over 75 years of experience, Milbank Concrete Products is a trusted leader in precast concrete solutions. Our beam and block flooring systems are manufactured to the highest standards, ensuring durability, efficiency, and sustainability.

Milbank offers high-quality precast concrete beams in multiple sizes (155mm and 225mm depths, available in 50mm increments from 1-6m). Our standard 100mm deep concrete blocks span gaps during installation, ensuring structural integrity. We also provide expert support and advice to help you achieve the most cost-effective solution for your project.

We are committed to sustainability, leading the way in reducing cement use and carbon emissions, making our flooring solutions both eco-friendly and high-performing.

Beam and block flooring is a proven, cost-effective, and sustainable choice for modern construction. Its strength, versatility, and ease of installation make it ideal for a wide range of projects, from residential homes to large commercial buildings.

If you’re considering beam and block flooring for your next project, contact Milbank Concrete Products today for expert advice and competitive pricing – [email protected] /  01787 223931.