Structures: The Sum of Their Parts

Structures—whether they are bridges or buildings—are comprised of structural members interconnected by joints. Cast-in-place reinforced concrete is one of the most common structural systems in common use today.

Cast-in-place reinforced concrete construction is one of the most economical building systems. It is also one of the most inherently redundant building systems. This means that if one member is weakened, it is likely that other members can take the load.

Cost

The cost of reinforced concrete construction can be reduced — sometimes dramatically — by following a few simple rules in the preliminary layout and design of a project.

Detailing for Lower Site Labor Costs
Site labor costs can be significant. Focus on the structural details make it constructible and thereby minimize the site labor costs. Help the reinforcing steel detailers and placers by making structures constructible. If good design practices are followed, it will take the steel workers less time to put the structure together, potentially saving a lot of money on the project.

Reinforcing Steel vs. Concrete
Evaluate the trade-off between the quantity of reinforcing steel — the number of bars — and the volume of concrete to be used.

Reinforcing bar costs more than concrete, so use as much steel as required, but no more.

Floor Systems

Basically, a building is a series of floors held up by columns and walls. There are a number of standard floor/roof structural systems used in cast-in-place reinforced concrete construction.