Hi sifus,

Would like to ask about the structure construction procedures for a wet kitchen extension.

I believe normally it's column first, then beam, then only the brick work.

But my contractor informed me that they normally will do the brick work first after the column, then only cast the beam on top of it as this will have a better finishing. I'm a bit sceptical on this, especially now I'm using AAC blocks which from online info, they are not really load bearing materials.

So would appreciate some comments and insights from those who are experienced in this.

Thanks

both way also can,

but due to easy to work , will lay brick 1st then only cast stiffener and lintel.

if do stiffener 1st u need to close up 4 corner for each stiffener, this may use up many plywood and kok chai ( timber 1"x2" or 2"x3" ) (more cost)

This post has been edited by empstar2: Jan 3 2023, 10:55 AM

Hi, thanks for the quick reply.

I can understand the stiffeners and lintels are normally casted on top of the bricks.

But here I think he mentioned that even the main beams that are going to support the roof is also going to be casted on top of the bricks, with both end then joined to the columns.

Not too sure if it's ok to let him proceed this way?

Thanks

In order to cast a concrete beam they need to build a mould. Build using rectangular plywood. At the bottom of the wood need support to hold the bottom plywood. After putting the steel the cast the concrete. Wait dry n open.

This method is correct especially for a few storey high building. Cos u need to strengthen the whole structure first. Then only start brickwall.

What ur contractor doing us those normal back kitchen extension. Where 2 column up n do brickwall. Then use the bricwall as support for the beam mould. There us good n bad. But if just back area extension ok la. Infact faster n cheaper. He shud b able to give u a cheap costing too.

can do, lintels or column can cast on top of brick, no problem. as long as beam are proper connected to column. ( rebar join to column and enough rebar.)

Ok got it with thanks. Ya I remember I saw normally people is using those wooden props to hold the formwork. But as you have mentioned, maybe those are for those more complicated buildings.



ok noted with thanks

This post has been edited by lowyat101: Jan 3 2023, 11:34 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTJg1TDe-34

go to minute 20 and you will see they also cast beam on top of bricks