Copyright © Bernard Humphrey-Gaskin , abp Chartered Architects

The Floors: that which is beneath our feet

The floors are important structures which elevate us from the ground. The ground floors keep us separated from the wet earth, they can be suspended or ground bearing. Ground floors require damp proof separation layers to prevent rising water entering the building.  Ground floors require special thermal insulation to prevent heat loss.  Floors at other levels require insulation for sound and fire rating requirements.  Nowadays it is common to provide under floor heating pipes, which allow the walls to be free of radiators.  The finishes to the floors are an important aesthetic choice and can show a value to the architectural outcome, as we all normally look beneath our feet to where we walk.