Hollowcore
Finishes and Service Runs Floor Finishes
The grouted precast floor provides a
firm working platform for following trades and is a suitable
base for either sand / cement screeds or timber finishes. As
all prestressed floor units are cambered, levelling screeds
or packing may be required when laying floating finishes. Where
required a structural concrete topping can be laid together
with the joint infill to form a composite concrete floor to
increase the strength of the flooring system.
Ceiling Finishes Textured paint finishes or plaster
finishes may be applied to Hollowcore planks in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions. Plaster manufacturers
may require the application of a bonding agent. (Plastered
finishes are not recommended for longer spans).
For suspended ceilings, plasterboard manufacturers have developed
ceiling fixing systems using galvanised metal channels and
hangers that can be fixed directly to the soffit of all types
of floor. These fixing systems may be used instead or timber
battens.
Ceiling Fixings
Proprietary site drilled anchor systems
are suitable for fixing suspended ceilings, and when installed
to the manufacturer’s instructions, these provide a
simple and economic fixing method. Anchor fixing systems
can be suitable for suspended disabled persons hoists. Shot
firing of fixings into prestressed concrete is not recommended.
Horizontal Services The essential services for a modern dwelling including plumbing,
central heating, lighting and power circuits, etc. can be accommodated
in ducts within the floor finish or the suspended ceiling void.
Larger services such as waste pipes can be run in skirting
ducts around the perimeter of the floor.
Screeded Finishes... The screed should be deep enough to bury
pipework and conduits for electrical wiring.
Timber Finishes... Timber battens can be fixed directly on
top of the precast floor, or supported on spacers. Services
can be run between the battens.
Vertical Services
Holes such as for soil pipes openings etc.,
may be formed during manufacture of the units, or subject to
the design capacity of the unit, may be cored on site.
Large
openings for services or roof lights are normally trimmed with
steelwork.
