Beam and Block Terrace

[NorthernRunner]

I'm looking to build a raised patio terrace to back of my house using beam and block supported on dwarf walls. If using standard concrete block for dwarf walls (440mm long, 215mm high, 140mm wide) can anyone recommend how much the beams should overlap/sit on the wall and best options to build up around the edge to conceal the ends of each beam. I'm probably going the render the outside of the terrace when built to match the house finish.

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Normally it's 100mm support. What will your paving be supported on? Pedestals? Someone will be along to tell you the render will fail at some point. Have you considered a brick outer skin instead?

 

[NorthernRunner]

Paving slabs will be laid onto block and beam surface. Dwarf walls on concrete strip footings will bear the overall weight. The only bit I haven't figured out is how to conceal the ends of the beams sat on the dwarf walls. I wanted to avoid too much building work (i.e. by adding an outer brick skin) as this is purely for a patio and not any sort of building.

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Think you'll either have to improvise with something, or bite the bullet and build the wall thicker so you can continue a skin up to hide it.

 

[cdbe]

140-100=40mm - plenty thick enough for slips.

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Provided the end of the beams won't dislodge your slips and crack the render, when the beams bounce ...

 

[NorthernRunner]

Alternative might be to bring beams to outer edge of dwarf wall, apply some sort of damp proof coating and then render over? My concern was whether moisture could be a problem to the ends of the beams (steel bar ends)

 

[StephenStephen]

Grow something up them?