A sill is a structural element arranged horizontally. In construction, the word designates both a beam in concrete used as a foundation than the reinforcement used to build it. A sill ensures the distribution of the loads it supports (basement, facade wall, etc.) and/or their transfer to specific supports (micropiles, isolated footings, etc.). Located on the outskirts of a building, it is often associated with the slab of floor low.
Precast or cast in place
The industrialized beams or sills exist in concrete reinforced or prestressed concrete. They have a rectangular section variable in width from 15 to 30 centimeters and in height from 20 to 80 centimeters for the common sizes. The spans can reach seven meters between centers and accept up to 1,200 kg load per linear meter. Depending on the characteristics of the site, they are based on a concrete of cleanliness or connect two soles.
To balance the forces between two isolated footings, in particular at the adjoining of two buildings, a sill or “straightening” beam is used. © MB
Standard reinforcing sills, for house foundation, are six runners in steel HA (high adhesion) of Ø 8 or 10 millimetres. Spaced about twenty centimeters apart, their stiffening frames are only five millimeters in diameter. For the individual house, the common sections are available from 15 x 35 to 20 x 40 cm. But larger sections, up to 35 x 55 cm, are available from material dealers.
The reinforcing sills are placed on edge, and not flat, in their formwork. They are assembled with irons waiting for vertical chaining. Pouring is done with a concrete dosed at 350 kg/m3. © AB Construction
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