Building advice

[lenny2000]

Does anyone know the difference between OPC and High Allumina when it comes to prestressed situations.  I understand that in Chlorine rich environments OPC is safer as there are cases of HA reacting with airbourne  chlorine.

That question to all the Builing experts.

Thanks for your help.

Also, I am considering building on some soft soil, would you recommend a raft foundation or piles and what would be your reasons?

Ta

[Clair]

In view of previous behaviour, be aware that any post to this thread

which does not stick to the subject will be immediately deleted by the

moderators.

[Mystery tramp]

High Alumina cement is made by fusing together a mixture of a calcium-bearing material, usually limestone, and an aluminium-bearing material such as bauxite.   Portland Cement is a finely-ground powder made by grinding Portland cement clinker, gypsum and small quantities of other materials.

As for building on soft soil this is usually something to be avoided.  Some questions you might want to ask include what is the bearing pressure of the soft soil; what is beneath the soft soil; what sort of area is your building; what sort of loads will your foundations or slab be carrying.  You might care to look at Foundation Design and Construction by M J Tomlinson or, as an introduction to the subject,  Structural Engineer's Pocket Book by Fiona Cobb.

Another option would be to employ the services of a structural engineer or an architect.

Good luck and do let us know where this building will be situated - the thought of a pre-stressed concrete structure designed and/or built by a DIY enthusiast is intriguing.

[Will]

I wouldn't wish piles on anybody, dearie. Even with the help of anusol, me chalfonts give me gyp.

[Gyn_Paul]

[quote user="Clair"]In view of previous behaviour, be aware that any post to this thread

which does not stick to the subject will be immediately deleted by the

moderators.

[/quote]

What's been going on Clair ?

[Clair]

Some previous ungentlemanly behaviour had called for a reminder... All is fine now and although the OP can no longer reply, do feel free to contribute if you have anything to add.