Execute Substructure Works
Introduction to Substructure Works
Substructure works refer to all construction activities below ground level that support and
transmit loads from the superstructure to the earth. It includes setting out, excavation,
foundation construction, and ground floor formation.
3.1 Civil Engineering Structures are Set Out According to Standard Work Procedures
Definition: Setting Out
Setting out is the process of transferring architectural and engineering designs to the ground to
guide the construction of a structure.
Key Activities
• Interpretation of site drawings.
• Locating and marking boundaries, centerlines, and levels.
• Using instruments such as:
o Total Station
o Theodolite
o Dumpy Level
o Laser Level
o Measuring tapes and ranging rods
Standard Work Procedures
1. Clear the site of vegetation and obstructions.
2. Establish a baseline using pegs and strings.
3. Fix profile boards and mark centerlines.
4. Use sighting rails and traveler rods for accurate leveling.
5. Check diagonals to ensure squareness.
3.2 Foundations are Excavated According to Standard Work Procedures
Excavation Types
• Strip excavation for shallow foundations.
• Pit excavation for pad foundations.
• Trench excavation for continuous foundations.
• Bulk excavation for basements.
Equipment Used
• Manual tools: spades, pickaxes
• Mechanical equipment: excavators, backhoes
Standard Work Procedures
1. Mark the excavation area using setting-out lines.
2. Excavate to the required depth and width.
3. Support trench sides if necessary (e.g., timbering).
4. Ensure bottom is level and undisturbed.
5. Dewatering and soil stabilization if water is present.
Health and Safety Considerations
• Proper PPE (boots, gloves, helmets)
• Slope or support trench sides
• Warning signs and barriers
3.3 Foundations are Laid According to Standard Work Procedures
Common Foundation Types
• Strip foundations
• Pad foundations
• Raft foundations
• Pile foundations (deep)
Foundation Construction Process
1. Lay blinding concrete (50–75mm) to protect the soil bed.
2. Place formwork to shape the foundation.
3. Install reinforcement as per structural design.
4. Pour concrete to specified height and vibrate to compact.
5. Cure the concrete (typically 7–14 days).
Standards and Codes
• Follow local building code specifications (e.g., BS 8004, Eurocode 7)
• Use concrete of appropriate grade (e.g., C25/30)
3.4 Foundation Walls are Erected According to Standard Work Procedures
Foundation Wall Types
• Blockwork walls
• Mass concrete walls
• Reinforced concrete walls
Construction Procedure
1. Ensure cured foundation base.
2. Lay damp proof course (DPC) at the base of the wall.
3. Lay masonry units using mortar (1:3 or 1:4 cement:sand).
4. Check vertical and horizontal alignment using a plumb bob and spirit level.
5. Provide weep holes and termite barriers as necessary.
Considerations
• Bonding patterns (e.g., stretcher bond)
• Expansion joints if needed
• Proper mortar mixing and jointing
3.5 Solid Ground Floors are Constructed According to Standard Construction Procedures
Definition
A solid ground floor is a non-suspended slab-on-grade floor constructed directly on prepared
ground.
Construction Layers
1. Compacted Hardcore (150mm–300mm)
2. Blinding Layer (50mm sand)
3. Damp Proof Membrane (DPM) (Polythene sheeting)
4. Insulation (optional, for thermal performance)
5. Reinforced Concrete Slab (100mm–150mm thick)
Construction Process
1. Level and compact the sub-base.
2. Place blinding and DPM.
3. Set up edge formwork and reinforcement.
4. Pour concrete and finish (float or trowel finish).
5. Cure the floor slab to prevent cracking.
Conclusion
Executing substructure works requires precision, adherence to standards, and safety awareness.
These foundational tasks are crucial for the stability and durability of the entire structure.
