Finished Floor Level (FFl): Measurement Explained

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of Finished Floor Level (FFL) in civil engineering, specifically addressing how it is measured and the reference points used for this measurement. The scope includes technical explanations and clarifications related to construction practices.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that FFL is typically measured from ground level or the first floor, but there are additional considerations involved.
  • One participant mentions that to determine if the slab is level, a reference level other than the ground may be necessary, using tools like a surveyor's theodolite or a taut string with a bubble level.
  • There is a question about whether FFL is measured from the surface level of the ground floor after finishing work like tiling and screeding has been completed or before.
  • Participants clarify that "level" can have multiple meanings, distinguishing between the technical use of level in construction and its use in everyday contexts.
  • One participant references an external link for further reading on the topic, indicating that it contains relevant information about the measurement of FFL.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that FFL is measured from a specific reference point, but there is no consensus on the exact reference point or the conditions under which it is measured. Multiple views and interpretations remain present in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions about what constitutes the reference level for FFL and the specific conditions under which measurements are taken. The discussion does not resolve these aspects.

Hulah
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Homework Statement: Any civil engineer here? Hi, guys. I knew that finished floor level (ffl) was measured to the top of slab...bit, where does it measure from?
Homework Equations: No

From top of slab of floor below it? Or measured from sea level or any established datum?

<< Mentor Note -- Thread moved from the Homework forums to the ME forum >>
 
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If you are trying to determine if the slab is level, then a reference level other than the ground needs to be used for the ground floor slab; and, depending upon the required accuracy, this can be done with either a surveyor's theodolite; or, a taut string with an attached bubble level and marked corner located wooden stakes as a reference.
 
jim mcnamara said:
Usually is measured from ground level or the first floor. There are other considerations so please read the few paragraphs here:
https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Finished_floor_level
So the ffl will be measured from surface level of ground floor after the tiles and screeding was done or before?
 
Unfinished, raw wood, no tiles. Please read the link I gave you it says explicitly what to do.
 
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@JBA - this is where level == floor, not level in the little bubble in the glass tube sense. British I think.
 
jim mcnamara said:
- this is where level == floor, not level in the little bubble in the glass tube sense. British I think.
I don't understand that statement, please explain.
 
@JBA sorry. Level has multiple meanings, two of them are:
1. Square to up/down, like using a bubble level to get a picture level on the wall (your answer)
2. Level in the sense of the names for floors, like ground level or basement level (OP's question)

We are talking about the second meaning. And if you read the link you will see what is involved. It is interesting.
 
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Now I understand.
 

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