Abstract:
The current New Zealand standard NZS 3114 requires that concrete floor surface regularity be measured using a straight edge specification. There is a view amongst concrete floor slab engineers and contractors that the straight edge specification is problematic and that the tolerances are rarely measured or enforced. As a consequence, it is becoming increasingly common for projects in New Zealand to specify alternative procedures from the USA, UK and Europe. This study compared the measured floor surface regularity of six floor slabs according to the New Zealand, UK and European specifications. It was found that the New Zealand straight edge tolerances were often not met, whereas the floors generally conformed to the UK and European specification. It was concluded that the current New Zealand straight edge method is outdated, impractical, and not appropriate for floors currently being construction in New Zealand. It is recommended that the NZS 3114 and NZS 3109 standards that outline the specification for floor surface regularity be reviewed and updated to align with current international standards.