slabbouw

Slabbouw is a Dutch term referring to a construction method primarily used for building the floors of houses and other structures. It literally translates to "slab construction" or "slab building." This technique involves pouring a concrete slab, which serves as the floor, directly onto the ground or onto supporting elements like formwork and potentially reinforcement.

The most common form of slabbouw is a ground-level concrete slab, often referred to as a "vloerplaat" in Dutch. This type of slab is typically laid on a compacted base of gravel and sand, often with a damp-proof membrane to prevent moisture from rising into the building. Reinforcement, usually in the form of steel mesh, is embedded within the concrete to increase its tensile strength and prevent cracking. This method is widely used for the ground floors of residential buildings, garages, and industrial spaces due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and structural integrity.

In some cases, slabbouw can also refer to the construction of suspended concrete slabs, which form the floors between different levels of a building. These suspended slabs are supported by beams, walls, or columns and are also typically reinforced with steel. However, the term "slabbouw" in common Dutch usage most frequently refers to the ground-level concrete floor. The use of slabbouw is a fundamental aspect of modern construction in the Netherlands and other regions where similar techniques are employed.