APPROVAL

Jablite INSPECTION
TESTING
Infinity House CERTIFICATION
Anderson Way TECHNICAL APPROVALS FOR CONSTRUCTION
Belvedere
Kent DA17 6BG Agrément Certificate
Tel: 020 8320 9100 Fax: 020 8320 9110
e-mail: [email protected] 14/5094
website: www.Jablite.co.uk Product Sheet 1

JABLITE EPS BLOCKS

JABLITE QUICKFLOOR EPS INFILL BLOCKS
This Agrément Certificate Product Sheet (1) relates to the
Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Blocks, a range of expanded
polystyrene (EPS) blocks for use as thermal insulation in
suspended concrete ground floors (over a sub floor void)
in domestic, residential and commercial buildings. The
blocks are used in conjunction with precast concrete
beams, masonry closure and coursing blocks and
structural concrete toppings.
(1) Hereinafter referred to as ‘Certificate’.

CERTIFICATION INCLUDES:
• factors relating to compliance with Building
Regulations where applicable
• factors relating to additional non-regulatory
information where applicable
• independently verified technical specification
• assessment criteria and technical investigations
• design considerations
• installation guidance
• regular surveillance of production
• formal three-yearly review.
KEY FACTORS ASSESSED
Thermal performance — The EPS blocks can enable a floor to meet the design U values specified in the documents
supporting the national Building Regulations (see section 6).
Condensation risk — The EPS blocks can contribute to minimising the risk of interstitial and surface condensation in
floors (see section 7).
Structural performance — The EPS blocks have adequate strength to carry short-term loads likely to be encountered
during construction of the floor but make no further load bearing contribution once the structural concrete topping has
reached full strength (see section 8).
Durability — The EPS blocks have adequate durability and will have a design life equivalent to that of the building in
which they are incorporated (see section 10).
The BBA has awarded this Certificate to the company named above for the products described herein. These
products have been assessed by the BBA as being fit for their intended use provided they are installed, used and
maintained as set out in this Certificate.
On behalf of the British Board of Agrément

Date of First issue: 6 May 2014 Brian Chamberlain Claire Curtis-Thomas

Head of Approvals — Engineering Chief Executive
The BBA is a UKAS accredited certification body — Number 113. The schedule of the current scope of accreditation for product certification is
available in pdf format via the UKAS link on the BBA website at www.bbacerts.co.uk
Readers are advised to check the validity and latest issue number of this Agrément Certificate by either referring to the BBA website or contacting the BBA direct.

British Board of Agrément tel: 01923 665300

Bucknalls Lane fax: 01923 665301
Watford e-mail: [email protected]
Herts WD25 9BA ©2014 website: www.bbacerts.co.uk
Page 1 of 13
 Regulations
In the opinion of the BBA, Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Blocks, if installed, used and maintained in accordance with
this Certificate, will meet or contribute to meeting the relevant requirements of the following Building Regulations (the
presence of a UK map indicates that the subject is related to the Building Regulations in the region or regions of the
UK depicted):
The Building Regulations 2010 (England and Wales) (as amended)

Requirement: C2(c) Resistance to moisture

Comment: The blocks will contribute to limiting the risk of surface and interstitial condensation. See sections 7.1 and
7.4 of this Certificate.
Requirement: L1(a)(i) Conservation of fuel and power
Comment: The blocks will contribute to meeting this Requirement. See section 6.3 of this Certificate.
Regulation 7 Materials and workmanship
Comment: The blocks are acceptable. See section 10 of this Certificate and the Installation part of this Certificate.
Regulation: 26 CO2 emission rates for new buildings
Regulation 26A Fabric energy efficiency rates for new dwellings (applicable to England only)
Comment: The blocks will contribute to meeting these Regulations. See section 6.3 of this Certificate.

The Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004 (as amended)

Regulation: 8(1) Durability, workmanship and fitness of materials

Comment: The blocks can contribute to a construction meeting this Regulation. See section 10 and the Installation part
of this Certificate.
Regulation: 9 Building standards applicable to construction
Standard: 3.15 Condensation
Comment: The blocks will contribute to limiting the risk of surface and interstitial condensation, with reference to
clauses 3.15.1(1)(2), 3.15.4(1)(2) and 3.15.5(1)(2). See sections 7.1 and 7.5 of this Certificate.
Standard: 6.1(b) Carbon dioxide emissions
Standard: 6.2 Building Insulation Envelope
Comment: The blocks will contribute to satisfying the requirements of these Standards, with reference to clauses
6.1.1(1), 6.1.2(2), 6.1.6(1), 6.1.10(2), 6.2.1(1)(2), 6.2.3(1), 6.2.4(2), 6.2.5(1), 6.2.9(1), 6.2.10(1), 6.2.11(2),
6.2.12(2) and 6.2.13(1). See section 6.3 of this Certificate.
Standard: 7.1(a)(b) Statement of sustainability
Comment: The product can contribute to meeting the relevant requirements of Regulation 9, Standards 1 to 6 and
therefore will contribute to a construction meeting a minimum bronze level of sustainability as defined in this
Standard. In addition, the product can contribute to a construction meeting a higher level of sustainability as
defined in this Standard, with reference to clauses 7.1.4(1)(2) [Aspects 1(1)(2) and 2(1)], 7.1.6(1)(2) [Aspects 1(1)(2)
and 2(1)] and 7.1.7(1)(2) [Aspect 1(1)(2)]. See section 6.3 of this Certificate.
(1) Technical Handbook (Domestic).
(2) Technical Handbook (Non-Domestic).

The Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012

Regulation: 23(a)(i)(iii)(b) Fitness of materials and workmanship

Comment: The blocks are acceptable. See section 10 and the Installation part of this Certificate.
Regulation: 29 Condensation
Comment: The blocks will contribute to limiting the risk of interstitial condensation. See section 7.1 of this Certificate.
Regulation: 39(a)(i) Conservation measures
Regulation: 40(2) Target carbon dioxide emission rate
Comment: The blocks will contribute to satisfying these Regulations. See section 6.3 of this Certificate.

Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007

Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007
Information in this Certificate may assist the client, CDM co-ordinator, designer and contractors to address their
obligations under these Regulations.
See sections: 3 Delivery and site handling (3.2 and 3.3) and 8 Structural performance (8.2 to 8.4) of this Certificate.

Page 2 of 13
 Additional Information
NHBC Standards 2014
NHBC accepts the use of Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Blocks, provided they are installed, used and maintained in
accordance with this Certificate, (except Table 5) in relation to NHBC Standards, Chapter 5.2 Suspended ground floors.
Note: Where micro-fibre structural toppings are proposed (see section 8.10, Table 5 of this Certificate), designers must demonstrate compliance
with Technical Requirement R3 — Materials requirement.

CE marking
The Certificate holder has taken the responsibility of CE marking the product in accordance with harmonised
European Standard BS EN 15037-4 : 2010. An asterisk (*) appearing in this Certificate indicates that data shown is
given in the manufacturer’s Declaration of Performance.

Technical Specification
1 Description
1.1 Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Blocks comprise a range of Classic (white) and Premium (grey) grade expanded
polystyrene (EPS) thermal insulation blocks, shaped to fit in between and underneath precast concrete beams, in
suspended ground floors, see Figure 1 and Table 1.

Table 1 EPS block properties

Property Value

Length (mm) 1220

Top width(1) (mm)
– full blocks 540
– half blocks 270
– starter blocks <300
– end blocks <300
Overall thickness range (mm) 210 – 450
Toe thickness (mm)
– for use with 150 x 92 beams 50 – 240
– for use with 175 x 106 beams 50 – 240
Thermal conductivity (W·m–1·K–1) ␭D value
Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Blocks Classic 0.038* (white)
Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Blocks Premium 0.032* (grey)
Moisture diffusion coefficient (µ) 20 – 40
(1) All available with toe widths to cover single, double and triple beams.

Page 3 of 13
Figure 1 Example EPS block dimensions
270
540

100 100

210 60 210 60

100
172 173
788 519

full block (with 150 mm T beam) half block (with 150 mm T beam)

300
300

100

210 60 210 or 285

100

end block
172
548

starter block

540

100

285 85
100

189

803
full block (with 175 mm T beam)

540

210 or 285

172 to 585

multiple beam block

(dimensions in mm)

Page 4 of 13
1.2 Subject to order size, EPS blocks can be supplied with different toe widths to fit concrete beams with different
widths to those shown in Figure 2.
1.3 Ancillary Items used in conjunction with the blocks (but not covered by this Certificate) include the following:
• precast concrete beams — see section 8.7 and Figure 2
• concrete closure blocks — with a compressive strength equal to, or greater than, that of the blocks used to form the
inner leaf of the wall
• insulation strips — for perimeter of structural concrete toppings
• gas barriers — where required
• structural concrete toppings — see sections 8.8 to 8.10.

Figure 2 Typical pre-cast concrete beams

4
56 3
42

20
175
20 150

75
50

106 92

T beam (175 mm) T beam (150 mm)

(dimensions in mm)

2 Manufacture
2.1 The EPS blocks are manufactured using conventional moulding and cutting techniques from expanded
polystyrene beads.
2.2 As part of the assessment and ongoing surveillance of product quality, the BBA has:
• agreed with the manufacturer the quality control procedures and product testing to be undertaken
• assessed and agreed the quality control operated over batches of incoming materials
• monitored the production process and verified that it is in accordance with the documented process
• evaluated the process for management of nonconformities
• checked that equipment has been properly tested and calibrated
• undertaken to carry out the above measures on a regular basis through a surveillance process, to verify that the
specifications and quality control operated by the manufacturer are being maintained.
2.3 The management system of Jablite has been assessed and registered as meeting the requirements of
BS EN ISO 9001 : 2008 by the BSI (Certificate No FM01260).

3 Delivery and site handling

3.1 The EPS blocks are supplied wrapped in polythene and either palleted or on EPS skids, but are otherwise
unprotected. Therefore, reasonable care must be taken during transit and storage to avoid damage. Particular attention
will be required for blocks with extended toe widths.
3.2 The blocks should be stacked on a flat base, clear of the ground and protected against prolonged direct sunlight
and secured to avoid wind damage. Care must be taken to avoid contact with solvents and with materials containing
volatile organic components.
3.3 The blocks must not be exposed to flame or ignition sources. Careful consideration should also be given to the
management of fire risk when in storage.

Page 5 of 13
 Assessment and Technical Investigations
The following is a summary of the assessment and technical investigations carried out on Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Blocks.

Design Considerations
4 General
4.1 An appropriately qualified engineer should perform a site-specific assessment/design to ensure that Jablite
Quickfloor EPS Infill Block, concrete beam and concrete topping are suitable for the intended use based on the
recommendations in this Certificate and appropriate parts of BS EN 15037-4 : 2010.
4.2 Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Block is assessed as suitable for use as part of a suspended ground floor (over a sub
floor void) in domestic, residential and commercial buildings.
4.3 The minimum void depth beneath the lowest point of the EPS block is 150 mm but this may need to be increased
to facilitate the installation of the thicker range of EPS blocks and or those with extended toes, or where clay soils
susceptible to volume change potential are present. The void depth should therefore be carefully considered and
specified as part of the design of the overall floor construction for each project.
4.4 Electrical cables running within the polystyrene should be enclosed in a suitable conduit, such as rigid PVC.
4.5 The EPS blocks can be used in floors with suitable underfloor heating systems. Care must be taken to ensure that
the minimum design thickness of structural concrete topping is maintained, eg above pipes.

5 Practicability of installation
The product is designed to be installed by a competent general builder, or contractor, experienced with this type
of product.

6 Thermal performance
6.1 The overall floor U value will depend significantly on the deck U value, the ratio of the exposed (and semi-exposed)
floor perimeter length to floor area (p/a), the amount of under-floor ventilation and the ground thermal conductivity.
Each floor U value should therefore be calculated to BS EN ISO 13370 : 2007 and BRE report 443 : 2006.
6.2 A floor deck U value (from inside to the underfloor void) will depend significantly on the size and number of
precast concrete beams, the EPS block type, toe thickness and width of any gap between adjacent EPS blocks in
the toe layer. The thermal resistance of each beam and EPS block configuration should be numerically modelled to
BS EN ISO 10211 : 2007 and BS EN 15037-4 : 2010. The floor deck U value may then be taken as an area
weighted average and the overall floor U value calculated as described in section 6.1.
6.3 Example floor U values given in Tables 2 and 3 indicate that the EPS blocks can enable a floor to meet, or
improve upon, the design floor U values of 0.13 to 0.25 W·m–2·K–1 specified in documents supporting the
national Building Regulations.

Table 2 Example U values (1) (W·m–2·K–1) — Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Blocks Classic (white)
Beam p/a EPS block thickness (mm) and Beam configuration (A and B)
size ratio
210 260 310 400
(mm)
A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3)
0.4 0.20 0.21 0.16 0.17 0.13 0.14 0.10 0.10
0.6 0.21 0.23 0.16 0.18 0.13 0.14 0.10 0.11
150 x 92
0.7 0.22 0.24 0.17 0.18 0.14 0.14 0.10 0.11
0.9 0.22 0.25 0.17 0.18 0.14 0.15 0.11 0.11
235 285 335 425
A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3)
0.4 0.20 0.22 0.16 0.17 0.13 0.14 0.10 0.10
0.6 0.21 0.23 0.16 0.18 0.13 0.14 0.10 0.11
175 x 106
0.7 0.22 0.24 0.17 0.18 0.14 0.14 0.10 0.11
0.9 0.23 0.25 0.17 0.18 0.14 0.15 0.11 0.11
Notes:
(1) These calculations are in accordance with sections 6.1 and 6.2 and assume:
– the beam dimensions shown in Figure 2 and beam straightness is <5 mm
– the beam is 2.0 W·m–1·K–1 and a 60 mm concrete screed is 1.15 W·m–1·K–1
– a 300 mm thick perimeter wall with a U value of 0.35 W·m–2·K–1
– underfloor ventilation area is 0.0015 m2·m–1
– ground conductivity is 1.5 W·m–1·K–1
– all other parameters are default values from BR 443 : 2006.
(2) Configuration A = 100% area comprising single beams at full centres.
(3) Configuration B = 75% area comprising single beams at full centres and 25% area comprising any combination of single or double
beams at full or half centres.

Page 6 of 13
 Table 3 Example U values (1) (W·m–2·K–1) — Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Blocks Premium (grey)
Beam p/a EPS block thickness (mm) and Beam configuration (A and B)
size ratio
210 260 310 400
(mm)
A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3)
0.4 0.18 0.20 0.14 0.15 0.11 0.12 0.09 0.09
0.6 0.19 0.21 0.15 0.16 0.12 0.13 0.09 0.09
150 x 92
0.7 0.20 0.21 0.15 0.16 0.12 0.13 0.09 0.10
0.9 0.20 0.22 0.15 0.16 0.12 0.13 0.09 0.10
235 285 335 425
A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3) A(2) B(3)
0.4 0.18 0.20 0.14 0.15 0.11 0.12 0.09 0.09
0.6 0.19 0.21 0.15 0.16 0.12 0.12 0.09 0.09
175 x 106
0.7 0.20 0.22 0.15 0.16 0.12 0.13 0.09 0.10
0.9 0.20 0.22 0.15 0.16 0.12 0.13 0.09 0.10
Notes:
(1) These calculations are in accordance with sections 6.1 and 6.2 and assume:
– the beam dimensions shown in Figure 2 and beam straightness is <5 mm
– the beam is 2.0 W·m–1·K–1 and a 60 mm concrete screed is 1.15 W·m–1·K–1
– a 300 mm thick perimeter wall with a U value of 0.35 W·m–2·K–1
– underfloor ventilation area is 0.0015 m2·m–1
– ground conductivity is 1.5 W·m–1·K–1
– all other parameters are default values from BR 443 : 2006.
(2) Configuration A = 100% area comprising single beams at full centres.
(3) Configuration B = 75% area comprising single beams at full centres and 25% area comprising any combination of single or double beams at
full or half centres.

Junction psi values

6.4 Care must be taken in the overall design and construction of junctions between the floor and external, internal and
party walls, to limit excessive heat loss and air infiltration.
6.5 The junction psi values given in Table 4 may be used in SAP and SBEM calculations or values can be modelled
in accordance with the requirements and guidance in; BRE Report 497, BRE Information paper IP01/06 and the
provisions in the documents supporting the national Building Regulations relating to competency to perform calculations,
determine robustness of design/construction and limiting heat loss by air infiltration.

Table 4 Junction psi values

Junction (W·m –1·K–1)
External wall 0.32(1)
Party Wall 0.16(1)
(1) Conservative defaults from SAP Conventions Document.

7 Condensation risk
Interstitial condensation
7.1 Floors will adequately limit the risk of interstitial condensation when they are designed and constructed in
accordance with BS 5250 : 2011 and this Certificate.

7.2 To help minimise the risk of condensation, the void space beneath the lowest point of the floor construction should
be at least 150 mm high, with provision for adequate through ventilation, in the form of ventilation openings provided
in two opposing external walls. The ventilation openings should be sized at not less than 1500 mm2·m–1 run of external
wall or 500 mm2·m–2 of floor area, whichever is greater. Where pipes are used to carry ventilating air, these should
be at least 100 mm diameter.
7.3 To minimise the risk of interstitial condensation at junctions with external walls, specifiers should ensure that wall
insulation extends to at least 150 mm below the top of the EPS blocks.
Surface condensation
7.4 Floors will adequately limit the risk of surface condensation when the thermal transmittance (U value) does
not exceed 0.7 W·m–2·K–1 at any point and the junctions with walls are in accordance with the relevant
requirements of Limiting thermal bridging and air leakage : Robust construction details for dwellings and similar
buildings TSO 2002 or BRE Information Paper IP 1/06.

7.5 Floors will adequately limit the risk of surface condensation when the thermal transmittance (U value) does
not exceed 1.2 W·m–2·K–1 at any point and is designed and constructed to BS 5250 : 2011. Additional
guidance can be found in BRE Report 262 : 2002.

Page 7 of 13
7.6 To minimise the risk of surface condensation at service penetrations care should be taken to minimise gaps in the
insulation layer, for example, with expanding foam insulation.

8 Structural performance
General
8.1 The structural engineer must ensure that the concrete beams and structural topping are suitable for the intended
application.
EPS blocks
8.2 The blocks provide a permanent formwork to the structural concrete topping. They make no further contribution to
the long-term structural performance of the floor, once the structural concrete topping has been placed and obtained its
full design strength.
8.3 Subject to compliance with the design and installation requirements of this Certificate, the EPS blocks have
adequate strength to carry normal temporary loads expected during the construction phase of the floor system;
including the weight of the structural concrete topping when poured.
8.4 EPS blocks should be posited at the floor edges and must not be cut to less than 300 mm long to accommodate
varying beam lengths. Starter and End blocks should not be more than 300 mm wide at the top, see section 14.8.
8.5 The blocks are designed to have a nominal bearing of 20 mm with a 5 mm allowance for misalignment and
manufacturing tolerances in the straightness of the beam. A minimum bearing width of 15 mm must therefore be ensured.
8.6 Spacers for supporting mesh reinforcement should be located along the beams or on spreader plates over the
EPS blocks. This will reduce the risk of accidental penetration of the EPS during the construction phase and resulting
misalignment of the reinforcement within the structural concrete topping depth. Spacer dimension must not be less than
50 mm by 50 mm and minimum four spacers per m2.
Precast concrete beams
8.7 The EPS blocks are for use with self-bearing precast concrete beams of reinforced or prestressed normal weight
concrete which provides the final strength of the floor system independently of any other constituent part of the floor
system. The precast concrete beams must be designed in accordance with BS EN 1992-1-1 : 2004 (Eurocode 2). A
suitably qualified and experienced individual must ensure that the beams are adequate to resist the applied loading.
Structural concrete toppings
8.8 The concrete topping thickness and reinforcement specification must be determined by appropriately qualified and
experienced individual to BS EN 1992-1-1 : 2004. Above EPS starter and end units, the topping must be designed as
a cantilever (see also section 8.4) and must not exceed 300 mm.
8.9 The concrete forming the topping should be in accordance with BS 8500-1-2 : 2006 and BS EN 206-1 : 2000,
manufactured in plants covered by the QSRMC scheme and laid by personnel having appropriate skill and experience.
8.10 Testing and calculations indicate that the specifications in Tables 5 and 7 are suitable for the stated applications:

Table 5 Structural concrete topping specification reinforced with polymer micro fibres for self-contained dwelling units
occupied by a single family applications
Thickness Grade Maximum Type of concrete Reinforcement
(mm) aggregate size
(mm)
75 C25/30 10 Conventional 12 mm long (minimum), 22 µm diameter (minimum) monofilament(1)
polypropylene fibres (Fibrin 23(1) subject to BBA Certificate 06/4373)
at a minimum dosage of 0.91 kg m–3
60 C28/35 10 Self–levelling self- Minimum dosage of 0.91 kg·m–3 of Fibrin PC12 polypropylene(1) to
compacting BS EN 14889–2 : 2006
(1) On NHBC sites, designers must demonstrate that Micro-fibre structural concrete toppings meet NHBC Technical Requirement R3.

Table 6 Characteristic imposed load for concrete topping reinforced with polymer micro fibres for self-contained
dwelling units occupied by a single family
Characteristic imposed loads Value
Characteristic imposed UDL (kN·m ) –2 1.5(1)
Characteristic imposed point load (kN) 2.0(1)
Allowance imposed load for lightweight partitions (moveable) (kN·m–2) 0.5(2)
Maximum line load from partitions perpendicular or parallel to beams (kN·m–1) 3.0(2)(3)
(1) Imposed uniformly distributed load of 1.5 kN·m must not be combined with the imposed point load of 2.0 kN or other variable actions.
–2

(2) Allowance for moveable partition must not be combined with line load partition.
(3) Where partitions other than stud wall (e.g. blockwork) are proposed to run parallel to the beams specific provisions should be made to accommodate
these e.g. providing additional beam, mesh reinforcement or separate foundations.

Page 8 of 13
Table 7 Structural concrete topping specification reinforced with steel mesh (1) for dwellings and commercial (2)
applications (for imposed load refer to Table 8)
Application Thickness Grade Type Maximum aggregate size Reinforcement
(mm) (mm)
Dwellings 60 C28/35 Conventional 10 One layer of A142 steel mesh
(1) All steel fabric mesh is to be made using ribbed bar in accordance with BS 4483 : 2005 and BS 4449 : 2005.
(2) For commercial application the concrete topping grade, thickness and reinforcement specification must be determined by an appropriately qualified and
experienced individual to according to BS EN 1990 : 2002, BS EN 1991-1-1 : 2002, BS EN 1992-1-1 : 2004 and their relevant UK National Annex.

Table 8 Characteristic imposed load for concrete topping reinforced with steel mesh (1) for
dwelling and commercial applications
Characteristic imposed loads Value
Dwellings Commercial
Characteristic imposed UDL (kN·m–2) 1.5(2) 4.0(2)
Characteristic imposed point load (kN) 2.0 (2)(3) 4.5(2)(3)
Allowance imposed load for partitions( moveable) (kN·m–2) 1.0(4) 1.0(3)
Maximum line load from partitions perpendicular or parallel to beams (kN·m )
(5) –1 3.0 (4) 5.0(4)
Notes:
(1) All steel fabric mesh is to be made using ribbed bar in accordance with BS 4483 : 2005 and BS 4449 : 2005.
Size of steel mesh shall be designed in accordance with BS EN 1992-1-1 : 2004 and NA to BS EN 1992-1-1 : 2004.
(2) Imposed uniformly distributed must not be combined with the imposed point load or other variable actions.
(3) Imposed point load to be applied on a square plate of area not less than 50 mm x 50 mm.
(4) Allowance for moveable partition shall not be combined with line load partition.
(5) Where partitions other than light stud wall run parallel to the beams, provisions should be made to accommodate these by
other means e.g. providing additional beam or separate foundations.

9 Maintenance
The EPS blocks are designed to be installed within the floor structure, therefore do not require maintenance.

10 Durability
The EPS blocks are protected in service from agencies liable to cause deterioration and will be effective as
insulation for the life of the building which they are installed in.

11 Re-use and recyclability

EPS material can be recycled if free from debris and contamination.

Installation
12 General
Details of typical precast concrete beams and EPS block assemblies using Jablite Quickfloor EPS Infill Blocks are shown
in Figure 3.

Page 9 of 13
Figure 3 Example beam and EPS block assemblies

permeter insulation
150 mm concrete T beam
60 mm or 75 mm
gas barrier membrane structural concrete
(if required) topping

300 mm max
inner leaf blockwork

void 150 mm minimum starter block

construction adjacent to wall

150 mm concrete T beam

gas barrier membrane 60 mm or 75 mm
(if required) half block structural concrete
topping

void 150 mm minimum

construction with half panel

perimeter insulation
gas barrier membrane
(if required)

inner leaf blockwork 300 mm max

150 mm concrete beam

end block void 150 mm minimum

construction adjacent to wall

Page 10 of 13
13 Site preparation
13.1 Where clay soil of medium or high-volume change potential exists, the final minimum void depth should be
increased appropriately to prevent problems associated with heave. With good natural drainage or where site drains
are provided to prevent water collecting and standing, the ground level beneath the floor does not need to be raised to
the external ground level.
13.2 The ground beneath the floor should be free of topsoil and vegetation. Oversite concrete or other surface seal is
not required, but material added to bring the solum to an even surface must be hard and dry.
13.3 Damp-proofing and ventilation arrangements must be in accordance with normal good practice; for example,
provision of damp-proof sleeves to ventilators and adequate drainage of the sub-floor.
13.4 A continuous damp-proof course should be laid along the support wall below the floor in accordance with
BS 8102 : 2009.
13.5 The beams are laid in the positions shown on the floor plan and each beam manually ‘tightened’ up against the
EPS blocks as each run of blocks is installed.

14 Procedure
14.1 Normal precautions for handling EPS materials should be taken to avoid damaging the product during offloading,
storage, handling and installation. Any damaged blocks must be replaced before pouring the concrete.
14.2 Precast concrete beams should be laid out in accordance with the relevant drawings.
14.3 Starter blocks are attached to the first beam. The beam and block are then positioned tightly against the wall.
14.4 The EPS blocks should be cut as appropriate to accommodate service penetrations, eg soil vent pipes. The
resulting gaps should be filled with expanding foam or other insulation to minimise local cold bridging and air infiltration.
14.5 Full and half blocks and subsequent beams are laid in the same manner and as per the relevant drawing
14.6 It is essential that the correct EPS blocks are used with the beams and multiple beams to ensure the vertical gap
between an EPS block toe and the adjacent EPS block does not exceed 10 mm; otherwise cold air will by-pass much
of the insulation and significantly reduce the thermal performance of the floor.
14.7 The end block can be supplied by the Certificate holder, or cut on site from a full or half block. The end block
must not be more than 300 mm wide at the top.
14.8 Should any other cutting be required, the advice of the Certificate holder should be sought.
14.9 Closure blocks, coursing blocks, and if applicable, gas membranes are then installed in accordance with good
practice.
14.10 Although the blocks can withstand light foot traffic (see section 8.2), care should still be taken not to walk
unnecessarily over the installed EPS blocks. If a temporary working platform is required, the blocks should be covered
with a suitably rigid board. To avoid damage to the blocks, the structural concrete topping should be laid as soon as
possible after the blocks have been installed.
14.11 Before pouring the structural concrete topping, it must be ensured that the blocks are centrally located between
the beams with a maximum gap of 8 mm between the polystyrene and the beam face. These gaps may be due to
normal construction or manufacturing tolerances.
14.12 Where greater gaps occur, concrete is placed along the edges of the polystyrene units to prevent
displacement during the main concreting operation.
14.13 When using a concrete pump, truck or skip, concrete should not be discharged onto the polystyrene units from
heights greater than 300 mm and concrete heaps must not be formed over 200 mm high.
14.14 When wheelbarrows are used, planks must be placed to spread the wheel load to the precast concrete
beams. Spot boards must be used when tipping and shovelling.
14.15 The structural concrete topping should be placed and compacted. Provision should be made for a suitable
concrete finish to be achieved without standing on the blocks where this is avoidable, for example, when using a self-
levelling concrete topping.

Technical Investigations
15 Investigations
15.1 An examination was made of existing data to assess:
• tests on finished floor on polymer micro reinforced concretes and steel mesh
• resistance to construction loads
• practicability of installation
• thermal conductivity (␭90/90 values)
• dimensional accuracy
• durability.
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15.2 Floor deck U values were derived by modelling to BS EN 10211 : 2007 and BS EN 15037-4 : 2010
Annex F and example floor U values calculated to BS EN ISO 13370 : 2007.
15.3 The risk of condensation was examined to BS 5250 : 2011.
15.4 The manufacturing processes for the EPS blocks was examined including the methods adopted for quality
control, and details obtained of the quality and composition of the materials used.

Bibliography
BRE Report 262 : 2002 Thermal insulation : avoiding risks
BRE Report 443 : 2006 Conventions for U-value calculations
BRE Report 497 : 2007 Conventions for calculating linear thermal transmittance and temperature factors
BRE Information paper IP01/06 Assessing the effects of thermal bridging at junctions and around openings
BS 4449 : 2005 Steel for the reinforcement of concrete. Weldable reinforcing steel. Bar, coil and decoiled product.
Specification
BS 4483 : 2005 Steel fabric for the reinforcement of concrete. Specification
BS 5250 : 2011 Code of practice for control of condensation in buildings
BS 8102 : 2009 Code of practice for protection of below ground structures against water from the ground
BS 8500-1 : 2006 Concrete — Complementary British Standard to BS EN 206-1 — Method of specifying and
guidance for the specifier
BS 8500-2 : 2006 Concrete — Complementary British Standard to BS EN 206-1 — Specification for constituent
materials and concrete
BS EN 206-1 : 2013 Concrete — Specification, performance, production and conformity
BS EN 1990 : 2002 Eurocode — Basis of structural design
BS EN 1991-1-1 : 2002 Eurocode 1 : Actions on structures — General actions— Densities, self-weight, imposed
loads for buildings
BS EN 1992-1-1 : 2004 Design of concrete structures — General rules and rules for buildings
BS EN 14889-2 : 2006 Fibres for concrete. Polymer fibres — Definitions, specifications and conformity
BS EN 15037-4 : 2010 Precast concrete products — Beam-and-block floor systems — Expanded polystyrene blocks
BS EN ISO 9001 : 2008 Quality management systems — Requirements
BS EN ISO 10211 : 2007 Thermal bridges in building construction — Heat flows and surface temperatures —
Detailed calculations
BS EN ISO 13370 : 2007 Thermal performance of buildings — Heat transfer via the ground — Calculation methods

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 Conditions of Certification
16 Conditions
16.1 This Certificate:
• relates only to the product/system that is named and described on the front page
• is issued only to the company, firm, organisation or person named on the front page — no other company, firm,
organisation or person may hold or claim that this Certificate has been issued to them
• is valid only within the UK
• has to be read, considered and used as a whole document — it may be misleading and will be incomplete to be
selective
• is copyright of the BBA
• is subject to English Law.
16.2 Publications, documents, specifications, legislation, regulations, standards and the like referenced in this Certificate
are those that were current and/or deemed relevant by the BBA at the date of issue or reissue of this Certificate.
16.3 This Certificate will remain valid for an unlimited period provided that the product/system and its manufacture
and/or fabrication, including all related and relevant parts and processes thereof:
• are maintained at or above the levels which have been assessed and found to be satisfactory by the BBA
• continue to be checked as and when deemed appropriate by the BBA under arrangements that it will determine
• are reviewed by the BBA as and when it considers appropriate.
16.4 The BBA has used due skill, care and diligence in preparing this Certificate, but no warranty is provided.
16.5 In issuing this Certificate, the BBA is not responsible and is excluded from any liability to any company, firm,
organisation or person, for any matters arising directly or indirectly from:
• the presence or absence of any patent, intellectual property or similar rights subsisting in the product/system or any
other product/system
• the right of the Certificate holder to manufacture, supply, install, maintain or market the product/system
• actual installations of the product/system, including their nature, design, methods, performance, workmanship and
maintenance
• any works and constructions in which the product/system is installed, including their nature, design, methods,
performance, workmanship and maintenance
• any loss or damage, including personal injury, howsoever caused by the product/system, including its manufacture,
supply, installation, use, maintenance and removal
• any claims by the manufacturer relating to CE marking.
16.6 Any information relating to the manufacture, supply, installation, use, maintenance and removal of this product/
system which is contained or referred to in this Certificate is the minimum required to be met when the product/system
is manufactured, supplied, installed, used, maintained and removed. It does not purport in any way to restate the
requirements of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, or of any other statutory, common law or other duty
which may exist at the date of issue or reissue of this Certificate; nor is conformity with such information to be taken as
satisfying the requirements of the 1974 Act or of any statutory, common law or other duty of care.

British Board of Agrément tel: 01923 665300

Bucknalls Lane fax: 01923 665301
Watford e-mail: [email protected]
Herts WD25 9BA ©2014 website: www.bbacerts.co.uk
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