Waffle Pods

The Waffle Pod Slab System refers to a technologically advanced method of concrete slab construction that involves building ‘on-ground’ instead of ‘in-ground’. This process removes the need for trenching, reduces building costs, and improves construction durability and strength.

Waffle pod slabs are highly efficient in vibration control, which makes this construction method an especially good choice for buildings carrying heavy weight loads, such as commercial buildings with high amounts of traffic. However, this construction method is also helpful for any residential, commercial, or industrial building.

Using waffle pod slabs has numerous advantages. Here are a few reasons why they are good.

1. Simpler, faster preparation and building process
2. Waffle pods use less concrete and will cost about 30% less than conventional slabs
3. Structural stability and decreased tendency to crack
4. Improved structure safety and longevity
5. Easier installation of electrical wiring and plumbing pipes
6. Less waste and a reduced environmental impact

A rigid foam layer under the concrete slabs separates the slab from the soil and provides an additional insulation layer. This foam allows for better temperature control within the building, especially in cold climates.

A waffle slab has a flat top and a grid-like bottom surface with joists. Reinforcing steel mesh or steel bars fill the space between the pods. After pouring and setting the concrete, the polystyrene pods are removed, creating a waffle-like structure.

Both construction methods are useful under the right circumstances. While waffle pod slabs are cost-effective and easier and cheaper to construct, some builders prefer raft slabs in certain site conditions.

Raft slabs are best for:

• Very soft ground, especially if it’s prone to movement or erosion
• Sloping building sites
• Areas with lots of high winds or cyclones

Calculations are simple enough when using the Waffle Pod Slab System.

1. To find the number of waffle pods per concrete slab, you need to divide the total area m^2 by 1.51.
2. For the number of 4-way spacers, multiply the number of waffle pods X 1.4
3. For the number of 2-way spacers, divide the number of 4-way spacers by 3
4. For the trench mesh chairs, divide perimeter beam length by 1.2
5. For the number of Bar Chairs, multiply the number of waffle pods X 3

Without proper care, pests can get under any type of slab. The construction team must ensure thorough drainage from the building site and cover any areas that pests could access.

If the construction team works properly, a waffle pod is about as likely to crack as a conventional slab. In both methods, slab thickness ranges between 85 and 110 mm. Cracking can be an issue if the builders don’t make the concrete level thick enough or don’t keep a consistent level.