BS 8103 Part 1-1986

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BS8103:Pat-t 1 : 1986
UDC 624.04 : 721.01'1.26
0 British Standards Institution. No part of this publication may be photocopied or otherwise reproduced without the prior permission in writing of BSI
British Standard
Structural design of low-rise buildings

Part I . Code of practice for stability, site investigation,
foundations and ground floor slabs for housing
Elaboration des plans de construction des constructions de faible hauteur

Partie 1. Code de bonne pratique relatif à la stabilité des sols, à la reconnaissance
du terrain, aux fondations e t aux dalles de rez-de-chaussée
Bauliche Durchbildung von Wohngebäuden mit geringer Geschoßzahl

Teil 1. Leitfaden für Standsicherheit, Baugrunduntersuchung, Fundamentierung
und Grobgeschoßplatten für den Wohnungsbau
O
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British Standards Institution 7
Copyright British Standards Institution

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BSI BS*BL03 PART*L Bb L b 2 4 b b î 0022Lq7 T
BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
Foreword
This Part of BS 8103 has been prepared under the direction

of the Civil Engineering and Building Structures Standards
Committee.
A large proportion of the national building programme i s
concerned with new housing and alterations in both the
public and private sectors where traditional methods of
construction are used for the majority of houses and it i s
to these that this code is applicable.
However, when such dwellings are certified by organizations
such as The National House Building Council reference
should in addition be made to the appropriate documents
published by these bodies.
BS 8103 is being prepared in four Parts:
Part 1. Code of practice for stability, site investigation,
foundations and ground floor slabs for housing
Part 2.' Code of practice for masonry walls
Part 3." Code of practice for timber floors and roofs
Part 4,* Code of practice for concrete suspended floors
to allow detailed consultation with other BSI Technical
Committees responsible for the structural use of materials.
However, it i s the intention to combine these Parts into a
single document in due course.
It is assumed that this code will be used by those with
expertise in building construction but not necessarily in
structural engineering design. Houses constructed within
the limitations stated in the relevant clauses will not require
additional specialist advice. For any conditions outside the
limitations of this code appropriate specialist advice has to
be obtained.
A general list of these limitations is as follows:
(a) roof: maximum clear span 9.0 m;
(b) floor: maximum clear span 4.5 m;
(c) design wind speed: not exceeding 44 m/s (see 4.3);
(d) no part of wall or roof higher than 15 m above lowest
adjacent ground level;
(e) storey height: maximum 2.7 m;
(f) maximum clear length of a loadbearing wall between
vertical lateral supports of 9.0 m;
(9) maximum length of any opening in loadbearing
walls 3.0 m;
(h) only strip footings or trench fill foundations in
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normal ground conditions (see 6.1).

Where foundations other than as in (h) have been designed
by suitably qualified persons, the remainder of the building
may be constructed in accordance with the relevant clauses
of this code.
When using this code, it is important to ensure that the
overall stability of the house is achieved, and that the work
of any specialist engaged is properly coordinated. The
situations included in this code which require the consult-
ation of suitably qualified persons are identified in the
clauses to which they relate.
All illustrations in this document only show structural
details. Other details, e.g. d.p.cs, are not included.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself

confer immunity from legal obligations. ,------.
Copyright British Standards Institution * In preparation.

Contents
Page
Foreword Inside front cover

Committees responsible Back cover
Code of practice
1 scope 2
2 Definitions 2
3 Symbols 2
4 Stability and connections between elements 3
5 Site investigation 16
6 Foundations 16
7 Ground floor slabs 23
Tables
1 Areas of the United Kingdom within the scope
of this code 6
2 Suitable mixes for plain concrete in strip
foundations subject to sulphate-bearingsoils
and ground waters 17
3 Wall load categories for perimeter and party
wall foundations 18
. 4 Wall load categories for internal wall
foundations 19
5 Identification of ground material and minimum
foundation widths for wall load categories 20
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Figures
1 Plan form and construction of the ground
floor box to give stability 3
2 Diagram illustrating the action of wind forces 4
3 Walls with a difference in lever on opposite
sides 4
4 Building shape 5
5 Maximum height of building 5
6 Measurement of storey height of walls 6
7 Wind exposure zones for the United Kingdom 7
8 Diagram of a house illustrating location and
type of connections required between elements 8
9 Timber floor bearing on to wall 10
10 Timber floor spanning parallel with a wall 11
11 Timber floor supported on standard joist
hanger 12
12 Concrete suspended floor bearing on to wall 12
13 Concrete suspended floor abutting wall 13
14 Precast concrete beam and block type floor
abutting or spanning on to wall 13
15 Pitched roof: strapping a t ceiling where roof
spans parallel with a wall (similar detail for flat
roof spanning parallel with wall) 14
16 Pitched roof, connections a t gable verge line 14
17 Pitched or flat roof bearing on to a wall plate 15
18 Types of foundation 17
19 Foundation adjoining a trench 21
20 Thickness of foundations 21
21 Stepped foundations 21
22 Foundations to walls with projections 22
23 In situ concrete ground-supportedslab 23

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E S 1 ESm8L03 P A R T * L 86 Lb24669 0022l147 3
BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
Code of practice
O
1 Scope 2.2 cavity. The space between two leaves of a cavity wall.
2.3 cavity wall. Two parallel single-leaf walls spaced
This Part of BS 8103 gives recommendations for the usually a t least 50 mm apart and effectively tied together
structural design of low-rise housing and covers the stability with wall ties.
of the house, site investigation and foundations and ground 2.4 foundation. That part of a structure in direct contact
floor slabs used in the construction. Foundations with and transmitting loads to the ground.
comprising strip footings or trench fill founded in normal 2.5 foundation depth. The distance between the finished
ground are the only type described. external ground level and the underside of the concrete in
Low-rise housing comprises detached, semi-detachedand strip footings or trench fill construction.
terraced houses of not more than three storeys above
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ground intended for single family occupancy and of 2.6 ground-supported slab. A concrete slab constructed
traditional masonry construction with timber roofs and directly on and supported by the ground to receive material
floors of timber or concrete. For the purposes of this code forming or supporting the wearing surface.
additional habitable accommodation in the roof space 2.7 hoggin. An inert natural mixture usually consisting of
constitutes a storey of the house. This code does not gravel, sand and clay.
include the design of basements, but providing the 2.8 loadbearing wall. A wall that carries vertical and/or
basement is of one level only and is designed to provide a
firm platform a t ground level the provisions of this code
may apply to the superstructure.
lateral loads in addition to i t s self weight.
2.9 masonry. An assemblage of structural units that are
e
bonded or solidly put together with mortar.
Proprietary housing systems, and houses of timber, steel or
concrete framed construction are not covered by this code. 2.10 nogging. A solid piece of timber between timber
The structural design recommendations described in this members to provide support for an attachment point.
code are not specifically intended to cover other consider- 2.11 party wall, A wall between two buildings that i s
ations such as fire resistance, thermal and sound insulation, common to both.
resistance t o damp penetration and durability. Reference 2.12 pier. An integral thickened section located in a wall.
should be made to other codes and Statutory Regulations
and their supporting technical documents (e.g. BS 5628 : 2.13 storey height. The underside to underside distance
Part 3 and the appropriate Approved Documents to the between floors or between a floor and roof or in the case
Building Regulations) for these and other matters. of a ground storey the distance between the top of the
In using this code the following limitations apply: ground floor and the underside of the floor above.
(a) roof: maximum clear span 9.0 m; 2.14 strip footing. A bed of concrete laid in the bottom
(b) floor: maximum clear span 4.5 m; of a trench, i t s thickness being less than i t s width, that
(c) design wind speed: not exceeding 44 m/s (see 4.3); forms a strip foundation to carry a masonry wall.
(d) no part of wall or roof higher than 15 m above lowest 2.15 trench fill. A deep bed of concrete filling a
adjacent ground level; trench that forms a strip foundation to carry a masonry
(e) storey height: maximum 2.7 m; wall.
(f) maximum clear length of a loadbearing wall between O
vertical lateral supports of 9.0 m;
(9) maximum length of any opening in loadbearing
walls 3.0 m; 3 Symbols
(h) only strip footings or trench fill foundations in
normal ground conditions (see 6.1). For the purposes of this Part of BS 8103, the following
Where foundations other than as in (h) have been designed symbols apply.
by suitably qualified persons, the remainder of the building w1 width of wall to main building
may be constructed in accordance with the relevant clauses w2 width of wall to wing or annexe
of this code. d depth of fill material
NOTE. The titles of the publications referred to in this standard
are listed on the inside back cover. h l overall height of wall for the main building
h2 overall height of wall for the wing or annexe
b length of wall to main building
2 Definitions psr projection of strip footing beyond face of supported
wall
For the purposes of this Part of BS 8103, the following a step height in foundations
definitions apply. t overall thickness of wall
2.1 buttress. A section of wall or pier bonded or securely t l thickness of leaf 1 of cavity wail
tied to an adjacent wall providing support against lateral t2 thickness of leaf 2 of cavity wall
forces acting on the wall.

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td thickness of strip footing It is particularly important to ensure that wind loads are
t~ thickness of trench fio transferred to buttress walls, piers and chimneys.
w, width of strip foundation In the situation illustrated in figure 2 with the force derived
I length of wall to wing or annexe from wind action a t right angles to the gable, the gable in
isolation is extremely vulnerable. The front and rear walls
in combination with the floor offer substantial lateral
4 Stability and connections between support provided that the wind forces from the top of the
gable can be transferred to them. A braced roof, if
elements
adequately connected, will laterally restrain the top of the
gable and transfer the loads to the front and rear walls.
4.1 Stability considerations
Likewise the front and rear walls depend upon the lateral
This Part of BS 8103 together with BS 8103 : Parts 2*,3" support provided by the floors and roof connected to the
and 4* (when published) gives guidance on the sizing of gable walls.
individual elements of a house: foundations, walls, floors
and roof in relation to the forces acting on them due to
No house should be expected to be totally resistant to the
excessive forces that may arise due to extreme causes such
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dead and imposed loading. In order to provide overall

as earth tremors, explosion or impact by vehicles. Provided
stability of the structure in relation to any likely loading
that the design procedures recommended in this code are
condition it is essential for these elements to be properly
correctly followed, particularly the recommendationsfor
joined together. When considering the plan form of the
connections between elements, then the effects of the
building it is essential that the external walls interact to
excessive forces should be minimized if they occur.
form the sides of a rigid box completed by the floors and
roof as illustrated in figure 1 for the ground floor. In these
4.2 Dimensional limits to ensure stability
forms of construction bracing in the planes of the roof is a
necessary contribution to the overall stability. 4.2.1 Ground levels either side of walls, Where a wall is
subjected to a lateral load from retained material due to
Internal masonry walls should be connected so as to a difference in levels on opposite sides, the difference in
interact with external walls and brace the structure. Internal level above fully compacted backfill should not exceed
lightweight partitions should also be connected so that they four times the wall thickness as shown in figure 3. Figure
contribute to the overall stability but they should be 3(b) does not apply to free-standingretaining walls.
discounted in the design of the masonry. The connections
between structural elements described in 4.4 should be 4.2.2 Shape. For stability against wind forces, the ratio of
used as required to ensure that the elements of the box building dimensions should not exceed the values shown in
interact fully so as to transfer and share loads placed on one figure 4.
element with other elements.
I Floor soan
Figure 1. Plan form and construction of the ground floor box to give stability
In preparation.
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS
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BSI B S * a L O 3 PART*L Bb W L b 2 4 b b 7 0022L5L 1 U
BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
Figure 2. Diagram illustrating the action of wind forces
Suspended
n
ground f l o o r
Retained Retained Retained

height height height
(a) Situations where differences in level may occur Wall t i e s in
accord a n ce with
BS 5628
Concrete f i l l A
to wall cavity
\ Clear wall
cavity
Retained Retained Retained (unfilled)
height height height
(b) Maximum difference in permitted level
Figure 3. Walls with a difference in level on opposite sides

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Main building:
w , not less than h,l2
For wing:
if I = Zw, or more, then w,
hl should be not less than h,/2
where
h , and h, are the heights to
the highest part of the wall
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or-roof.
Figure 4. Building shape
4.2.3 Height of building. The maximum height above the

lowest finished ground level adjoining the building should
not exceed 15 m as shown in figure 5.
4.2.4 Sforey height. The maximum height of any storey

should not exceed 2.7 m measured as shown in figure 6.
The height of substructure walls measured between the top
of the foundation and the top of the ground floor slabs
should also not exceed 2.7 m.
4.3 Wind loading

The maximum wind forces to which a house i s liable to be
O exposed will vary with i t s geographical location in the
country, the degree of exposure, and the height of building.
The scope of this code is based on a design wind speed not
exceeding 44 m/s in accordance with CP 3 : Chapter V :
Part 2 and a limited building shape as defined in figure 4,
building height as defined in figure 5, and storey height as Figure 5. Maximum height of building
defined in figure 6.
It will normally be possible to establish the applicability
of this code by reference to the exposure zones defined
in figure 7 and listed in table 1. Where doubt exists, e.g.
very exposed buildings on top of hills or in valleys where
wind acceleration is known to occur, a separate design
check in accordance with CP 3 : Chapter V : Part 2 should
be carried out. Wind acceleration effects do not, however,
need to be taken into account in the areas asterisked in
table I . If the design wind speed exceeds 44 m/s this code
does not apply and the design should be carried out in
accordance with an appropriate structural code, e.g.
BS 5620.
-.
I

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BSI BS*8L03 P A R T * L 86 L62q669 0022153 5 W
BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
of r
Figure 6. Measurement of storey height of walls
Table 1. Areas of the United Kingdom within the scope of this code
Height of building Open countryside Open CQuntryside Country with many Surface with large and
not greater than with no obstructions with scattered windbreaks, small frequent obstructions,
windbreaks towns, outskirts of city centres
large cities
m
5.0 Zones I", 2" Zones 1*, 2", 3" and 4"
and 3 only
I
10.0 Zones 1 and 2 Zones I", 2"
only and 3 only
~ ~~~
15.0 Zone 1 only Zones 1 and 2 Zones I*, 2*

only and 3 only
* See 4.3.
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HM HN IL
Ja
J V.
NA NB
I OA
NF
NL
.$
2
3
NJ INK
Aberdeen
OF
OL
4
3
NO. oa
7-
ov ow
TB
T Brisfol
, U Oxford
I
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Notional gr I
identi f icotion
Figure 7. Wind exposure zones for the United Kingdom

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BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
4.4 Connections between structural elements

4.4.1 General. The details of floor or roof to wall shown in figure 8 with the exception of the cases listed in
connections given in 4.4.2 provide for the tying together of (a) to (f). Connections, where provided, should be inserted
elements recommended by this code to ensure overall house throughout the length of the wall a t that level. Depending
stability and lateral restraint for walls. All raftershoof joists on the roof or floor construction and the location of the
should be fixed to the wall plate, e.g. by framing anchors, connection, the relevant detail indicated in figure 8 should
and other connections should be made a t the positions be chosen from figures 9 to 17.
f Loor
floor
dation
Indicates that a connection may be required. The number in the circle refers to the figure showing the detail. Where more than one
type of restraint system is given at an element intersection, only one of the options should be used. .
Figure 8. Diagram of a house illustrating location and type of connections required between elements
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BS8103 : Part 1 : 1986
Where the connections take the form of metal restraint of the floor immediately below is not greater than 16 t
straps these should be fixed a t centres not exceeding 2 m where t is the overall thickness of a solid wall, or in the
unless otherwise indicated on figures 9 to 17, as appropriate. case of a cavity wall, the sum of the thicknesses of the
Internal loadbearingwalls should be laterally restrained a t two leaves plus 10 mm.
each level by the relevant detail shown in figure 8 for (f) Lateral restraint at party wall junctions. Straps are
external walls a t that level. not necessary where floors bear on to either solid
Connections may be omitted in the following circumstances. 200 mm thick or tied cavity party walls from both sides
(a) Short lengths of wall. Where a wall is less than 3 m a t approximately the same level. This applies irrespective
long between buttressing walls. of the means of support, e.g. direct bearing or joist
(b) Openings adjacent to walls, Where an opening occurs hangers. Ftoors spanning parallel to such walls should be
in a floor directly adjacent to a loadbearing wall, e.g. in a strapped, however, to transmit forces from the front
stair well, the length of wall without lateral restraint and rear walls.
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should not exceed 3 m. Where metal restraint straps 4.4.2 Metal restraint straps. Straps providing lateral restraint
would have been necessary within the length of the or restraint against uplift of roofs should normally be of
opening to comply with this code (see figure 81, these low carbon steel protected by galvanizing or other suitably
should be distributed on both sides of the opening in strong and durable materials in accordance with 22.7.1 of
addition to those already provided. BS 5628 : Part 3 : 1985. Such straps should have a nominal
(c) Vertical restraint straps, Straps for wall plates and cross-sectional area of 150 mm2 and a minimum thickness
roof to resist uplift forces due to wind are not required of 3 mm. They should have a minimum anchorageturn down
when the dead weight of the roof exceeds the uplift. of 100 mm and when used in conjunction with a timber
In low-exposure situations houses with a roof pitch joisted construction, a minimum straight length of 600 mm.
greater than 15" and clad in slates or concrete or clay tiles They should be fixed to timber members with steel 50 mm
having a laid weight per unit area greater than 50 kg/m2 long x No. 10 wood screws or by 75 mm x 4 mm (8 SWG)
have been found not to need vertical restraint straps. round nails a t not less than 110 mm centres with a minimum
(d) Lateral restraint at ground floor. Where ground- of four fixings. The first connection should not be less than
supported floor slabs are used or where the top of a 112 mm from the end face of the timber member. Where
suspended ground floor is not more than 1 m above timber members spanning parallel to a wall are to be
the finished internal or external ground level. restrained, the straps should be attached to binders or solid
(e) Lateral restraint at the ceiling level of the gable. noggings fixed firmly to the joists. Additionally there should
Straps are not necessary when the height to the midpoint be a packing piece between the wall and the nearest joist.
of the triangular section of the gable from the underside

B S I BS*f3303 P A R T * 3 86 W 3 6 2 4 b b î 0 0 2 2 3 5 7 2 W
BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
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Strap to turn down
a minimum of 100 mm
and be tight against
the face o f t h e
wailing inner Leaf
No strap is necessary provided joists are at 1.2 rn spacing or closer and bearing at least 90 rnm into wall. Otherwise strap as shown;
on top of joist with strap turned up or one side of joist with strap turned sideways. (Alternative positions are illustrated in figure 1 0
of ES 5628 : Part 1 : 1978.)
Figure 9. Timber floor bearing on to wall

,: .
10
Strap to turn down 100mm
v t ? ; ; . : ;and
; a mbe
e rtight against l ethe
af face
Strap to be r e b a t e d into top o f

joists to allow the floorboards
Gap between the wall and t h e f i r s t joist

to be f i l l e d with a timber p a c k i n g at
s t r a p positions
The strap is to be carried over at least two joists and be

secured with four fixings of which at least one is to be
in the second joist.
Figure I O . Timber floor spanning parallel with a wall
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BSI BS*B103 P A R T * L Bb W 3 6 2 4 b b î 0 0 2 2 3 5 9 b W
BS8103 : Part 1 : 1986
to joist
Underside of joist notched

to provide a f l a t s o f f i t
for ceiling
Figure 11. Timber floor supported on standard joist hanger
Concrete suspended
floor
No straps are necessary. 90 mm minimum bearing of the concrete

floor on to the wall.
Figure 12. Concrete suspended floor bearing on to wall

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. .
i:
Strap t o turn down a minimum
of 100 mm and be t i g h t against
/ t h e face o f the w a l l i n g inner l e a f
A l t e r n ative s t r a p
securing points in
> o\oo o o (y
concrete f l o o r
? / / / / / / / / / ,
//I, / f ,/ / f f ,/ / / /I
S t r a p position Concrete suspended

f loor
Where floor is parallel with and abuts the wall, straps are necessary
and are t o be built into the concrete floor.
Figure 13. Concrete suspended floor abutting wall

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Strap t o turn down a minimum

of 1OOmm and he t i g h t against
the face of the walling inner l e a f
Precast
h
concret e
450 min. 450 min.
floor
r
/
Precast Strap
beam position
Strap securing point to Void solidly

concrete floor using turn grouted
down of the s t r a p which i s
to be tight against precast
beam face
Where floor beams span directly on t o the wall, no straps are Where floor spans parallel with the wall, straps are
necessary provided that there is a minimum 90 mm bearing necessary and are t o be built into the concrete floor.
of the concrete beams on to the wall.
(a) Typical edge detail (b) Alternative edge detail
Figure 14. Precast concrete beam and block type floor abutting or spanning on to wall
-
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS
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BSI BS*BL03 PART*L Bb Lb2Llbbï 0022LbL Lt
BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
Strap fixed to
-solid nogging with
a minimum of four
fixings o f which
a t least one is
t o be in the second
joist
Figure 15. Pitched roof: strapping a t ceiling where roof spans parallel with a wall (similar detail for flat roof
spanning parallel with wall).
Packing piece between

inner l e a f and f i r s t r a f t e r
I
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S t r a p 'bedded under a cut block to bear

on a f u l l block
Figure 16. Pitched roof, connections at gable verge line

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Strap t o be at Least l m
Long and either screwed
t o face o f masonry, o r have
a t a i l built into a masonry
bed joint. If s t r e w s .are
used a mininum o f three
screws is. necessary a t Least
one o f which i s t o be
located within 150mm o f .
the bottom end o f t h e s t r a p
(a) Restraining roof against uplift by use of framing anchor and wall-plate straps.
S t r a p t o be at Least
I m long and either
screwed to face o f masonry,
o r have a t a i l b u i l t into a
masonry bed j o i n t . i f
screws are used a
minimum of three screws
i s necessary a t Least
one o f which is to be
Located within 150 m m of
t h e b o t o m end of t h e
strap.
(b) Rafter strap. . -

NOTE. Vertical restraint straps as detailed in (a) or (b)
should be provided at 1.2 m centres to resist uplift forces due
to wind suction, except in the circumstances defined in 4.4.l(c)).
Figure 17. Pitched or flat roof bearing on to a wall plate

15
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BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
5 Site investigation (c) Areas such as old refuse tips containing material that
is subject to internal combustion, chemical change or
bacteriological decay, or which includes toxic wastes.
5.1 General
(d) Underground or buried water courses and ponds.
In order to decide the type of foundation and method of
construction suited to a particular site, site investigation (e) Existing services such as sewers, gas and water mains,
should be undertaken a t an early stage. The investigation electricity or British Telecommunications cables.
should also be concerned with determining those features (f) Pits, both natural such as swallow holes or due to
necessary to plan the siting of dwellings as well as mining or quarrying; also bomb craters and soft spots
determining soil properties and identifying potential where trees have been taken up.
hazards which will affect the eventual design of the (9) Areas liable to subsidence caused by mining or
foundation. mineral extraction below the site.
Site investigation can be a complex exercise and some site (h) Wells, mine shafts, etc.
conditions may be outside the scope of this code. The (i) Old foundations or other concealed constructions.
existence of any of the hazards indicated in 5.3 located
(jl On clay soils, the presence or recent removal of trees
under or close to the site of the building, may cause the
or heavy vegetation,
ground to behave in an abnormal fashion. In these cases a
suitably qualified person should be employed to carry out (k) Areas liable to flooding or where the water-table
the site investigation and foundation design. level is above the expected level of the foundations.
(I) Areas where past experience has shown presence of
5.2 Methods of site investigation high sulphate concentrations or other naturally occurring
The investigationshould normally fall into two parts. potentially deleterious substances mainly in clay soils,
in sufficient concentration or in circumstances that
(a) Desk study. A study of available documents relating would cause damage.
to the site such as maps, geological reports, aerial
photographs and records held by the Local Authority
and the Public Utilities. Reference should also be made
to the National Coal Board in coalmining areas and 6 Foundations
other mining authorities.
The Electricity, Gas and Water Authorities, British 6.1 Types of foundation
Telecommunications and also the British Pipeline This code covers the design and construction of foundations
Agency should be approached to provide information only in normal ground, ¡.e. for which the use of strip
relating to existing mains or sewers on or near the _ site.
_-
footings or trench fill foundations using plain concrete,
(b) Physical explorati& of the site. This should include as shown in figure 18, are sufficient. For sites where
a survey of ground levels and services as well as visual hazardous conditions exist as described in 5.3 and which
inspection and should be primarily concerned with may require reinforced strip rafts or pile foundations,
identifying the nature of the ground and any hazardous a suitably qualified person should be consulted.
features.
The ground is best examined by means of boreholes or 6.2 Foundation materials
trial pits which should be sufficient in number to show Concrete used in foundations should be plain concrete of --`,,,``,``,````,`,````````,,`,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
any likely variation over the site. They should be located grade C7.5P (ordinary prescribed mix) complying with
having regard to the proposed layout of the site and BS 5328 using a cement type complying with BS 12 or
should not be located under or close to proposed BC 146, or alternatively be a suitable designed mix
foundation positions. The depth of trial pits should be containing a minimum Portland cement content of
a t least 2 m. 220 kg/m3. These concrete mix recommendations are based
If a t this depth the ground i s unsuitable for the proposed upon the use of a 20 mm nominal maximum size of
foundation a suitably qualified person should be aggregate. Other cement types and concrete mixes may be
consulted. The suitability of the ground should be used, but in these cases reference should be made to
determined by the simple field tests described in table 5. BS 81 10. Where ground conditions warrant it, for examl:
where it is difficult to keep excavations free from standing
More detailed information on site investigations may be
water, it may be necessary to use a higher grade concrete
found in BS 5930.
mix.
5.3 Hazardous ground conditions requiring special Where sulphates are present in the ground in sufficient
consideration quantities to be damaging, suitable cement types and
The following hazardous ground conditions require special concrete mixes as given in BS 81 10 and BRE Digest 250
consideration. 1981* appropriate to the sulphates concentration should
(a) Slopes subject to slip or creep which can occur on be used.
clay sites with slopes greater than 1 in IO. However table 2 gives guidance on mix specifications which
(b)Areas liable to long-termconsolidation of the are suitable for plain concrete in foundations subject to
ground, particularly when this may be made-up or
reclaimed ground or where layers of peat are encountered.
sulphates present in the soil or ground water. ---
* Available
Copyright from
British Standards the Building Research Station,
Institution Garston, Watford, Hem WD2 7JR.
Finished e x t e r n a l
ground level
(a) Strip footing (b) Trench fill
Figure 18. Types of foundation
--`,,,``,``,````,`,````````,,`,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Table 2. Suitable mixes for plain concrete in strip foundations subject to sulphate-bearing soils and ground waters
Soil condition by sulphates classification
Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Class 4 cia5

Concrete for foundations in
C7.5P" Not applicable. Refer
strip footings and trench fill
O Cement type
to specialist advice
Complying Sul phate-resistingPortland
with BS 12 cement complying with
or BS 146 BS 4027
* Alternatively, a suitable designed mix containing a minimum Portland cement content of 220 kg/ma may be used. Where ground
conditions warrant if,for example where it is difficult to keep excavations free from standing water, it may be necessary to use a
higher grade concrete mix.
NOTE 1. Sulphates classification i s in accordance with 8s 81 10 and BRE Digest 250 1981.
NOTE 2. Concrete mixes are ordinary prescribed mixes in accordance with BS 5328 and are based upon the use of a 20 mm
nominal maximum size of aggregate.
NOTE 3. Cement types:
ordinary and rapid-hardeningPortland cement should comply with BS 12;
Portland-blastfurnacecement should comply with BS 146.
NOTE 4. Sulphate-resisting Portland cernent should comply with 8S 4027.
NOTE 5. Other cement types and concrete mixes may be used, but i n these cases reference should be made to BS 81 10 and
BRE Digest 250 1981.
NOTE 6. These recommendationsare for concrete i n near-neutral ground waters of pH 6 to p H 9 (see BS 81 10 and BRE Digest
250 19811.
8
BSI B S * 8 3 0 3 P A R T U L 86 = 3624667 00223b5 L
BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
6.3 Foundation design for sites without hazardous wall. Load categories for the different forms of wall
conditions construction should be determined from tables 3 and 4.
6.3.1 General. Where no hazards have been identified The minimum widths of foundations should then be
during a preliminary exploration, foundation design can obtained from table 5 using the appropriate soil
proceed in accordance with 6.3.2 to 6.3.7. The design may classification and load category.
have to be amended to cuit unforeseen hazardous conditions Foundation widths in excess of the design minimum may
found during construction. be necessary to allow for setting out and construction
tolerances. A foundation 150 mm wider than the wall
6.3.2 Minimum width of foundations. For the purposes of
thickness is considered to be a practical minimum
this code, foundation loads are subdivided into nine load dimension.
categories A to J representing line loads a t the base of the
Table 3. Wall load categories for perimeter and party wall foundations
Perimeter wall Party wall
Height Roof and upper Ground floor I Load arrangement on wall I Load arrangement on wall I
of wall floor construction construction
Floors Roof and Roof Floors Roof and
and only ground
floors floor floors floor
Single Timber roof Non suspended A A C A C

storey Suspended timber A B D B D
Suspended precast B A B E C E
Suspended in situ B C F D F
Two Timber roof and Non suspended B
I C D
--`,,,``,``,````,`,````````,,`,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
storey timber floor Suspended timber C D E

Suspended precast
Suspended in situ
D
D
E
F
--
F
G I
Timber roof and Non suspended C E D
precast concrete Suspended precast D C G G
floor Suspended in situ E D H H
Three Timber roof and Non suspended D G

storey timber floors Suspended timber D H
Suspended precast E J
Suspended in situ E -
Timber roof and Non suspended E

precast concrete Suspended precast F
floors Suspended in situ G
I

Table 4. Wall load categories for internal wall foundations
Height Load arrangement Ground floor Total span of floor supported at each leuel
of wall on wall construction
Up to 4.5 m Up to 6.0 m Up to 9.0 m
Single Timber roof Non suspended A A A

storey Suspended timber A A A
Suspended precast B B C
Suspended in situ B C D
Two Timber roof and timber Non suspended B B B

storey upper floor Suspended timber B B C
Suspended precast C C D
Suspended in situ C D E
Timber roof and precast Non suspended B C D

concrete upper floor Suspended precast D D F
Suspended in situ D E G
Timber roof only Non suspended A A A

Suspended timber B B B
Suspended precast B C D
Suspended in situ C D D
Timber upper floor only Non suspended A A A

Suspended timber A B B
Suspended precast B C D
Suspended in situ C C E
__
Precast concrete upper Non suspended B B C

floor only Suspended precast C D E
Suspended in situ C D F
Three Timber roof and timber Non suspended C C D
storey upper floors Suspended timber C D D
Suspended precast D E F
Suspended in situ D E G
Timber roof and precast Non suspended D E G

concrete upper floors Suspended precast E G J
Suspended in situ F G -
Timber roof only Non suspended B B B

Suspended timber B B C
Suspended precast C C D
Suspended in situ D D E
Timber upper floors only Non suspended B C

Suspended timber C D
Suspended precast D E
Suspended in situ E F
Precast concrete upper Non suspended D F

floors only Suspended precast F H
.Suspended in situ F J
NOTE. The total span i s the sum of the spans on each side of the wall in question a t each level. The greatest total span combination
a t any supported floor level should be taken when using this table.
--`,,,``,``,````,`,````````,,`,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

BSI BS*f3103 P A R T * L 86 L624667 0022Lb7 5
BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
,
Table 5. Identification of ground material and minimum foundation widths for wall load categories
Rock or soil Simple field test Minimum foundation width*, in mm,

--`,,,``,``,````,`,````````,,`,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
for load category (kN per metre run)
Type Condition
Rock I Hard I Requires a t least a pneumatic or

other mechanically operated
pick for excavation
1 Equal to width of wall
-
Gravel
Sand I Compact Requires pick for excavation.
Wooden peg 50 mm square hard
to drive more than 150 mm
250 300 400 500 600 650 800 900 1000
Stiff Cannot be moulded in the

Sandy clay fingers. Requires pick or
pneumaticallyoperated spade
250 300 600 650 800 900 1000 e
for excavation
- -
Sandy clay
Firm Can be moulded with substantial
pressure with the fingers and 300 350 750 850 950
excavated with a spade
- -
Loose Dry lumps may have slight
Silty sand ~
cohesion but easily breaks up
Clayey sand in fingers. Readily excavated 400 600
with spade. 50 mm peg can
be easily driven
-
Silt Soft Easily moulded in the fingers
450 650
and readily excavated
Sandy clay
Silty clay
Silt Very Exudes between fingers

600 850 Refer to specialist
soft when squeezed in fist
Sandy clay
Silty clay
O
Peat
I- I
Made
ground
I- I
* In no case should the foundation width be less than the width of the wall nor should the wall oversail the foundation.
6.3.3 Minimum depth of foundations. The mínimum depth (d) Where foundation adjoins a service trench dug,
of foundations should be determined as the greatest of the the layout illustrated in figure 19 should be followed.
following. NOTE. The susceptibility of soils to moisture movement, the action
(a) A depth to the selected bearing stratum. of frost and changes in water table varies widely and the advice of
the approving authority should therefore always be sought.
(b) In clays, subject to seasonal moisture movement
the depth should be taken as a minimum of 1 .O m. Except as indicated in 6.3.5,the underside of foundations
(c) In sands, chalk and other frost-susceptible soils, should be maintained a t a uniform level.
a depth below the zone of frost action, which may 6.3.4 Minimum thickness of foundations. The minimum
normally be taken as a minimum of 450 mm. In upland thickness of foundations should be the greater of 150 mm
areas and other areas known to be subject to long or the projection from the face of the substructure wall to
periods of frost an increase in depth may be advisable. the adjoining edge of the foundation as shown in figure 20. -
7

BS 8103 :Part 1 : 1986
r
\
\
\
\
\
\
\
\
d 4S0'\
--f_L
tsfto be a minimum of 150 mm or psf, whichever is the
Figure 19. Foundation adjoining a trench greater
Figure 20. Thickness of foundations
6.3.5 Stepped foundations. On sloping sites, or where the be widened so that the distance from the edge of the
bearing stratum slopes or where local proximity to a service concrete to the face of masonry remains constant as shown
trench requires a greater depth, foundations may be stepped. in figure 22.
Each length of foundation between steps should be
horizontal and the height of steps should not exceed the 6.3.7 Foundations on clay soils close to trees, Damage can
thickness of the foundation. The face of the step in the soil occur to foundations on clay soils in proximity to trees or
should be as near vertical as possible. The minimum length where trees have been removed. Foundations should not
of the overlap and the maximum step height are shown in generally be affected if they are located a distance further
figure 21. from a tree equivalent to i t s mature height. Where a row of
trees is concerned this distance should be increased to 1.5
6.3.6 Foundations to walls with projections. Foundation times the height. In all other cases the site should be
widths should be increased where piers or chimneys
. .project
- considered as hazardousand special precautions taken
beyond the general line of the wall. The foundation should (see 5.1).
o --`,,,``,``,````,`,````````,,`,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Overlap Length to be tst

or 2s or300mm whichever
i s the greatest
(a) Strip footing
Figure 21. Stepped foundations
o ~

BSI B S * 8 1 0 3 PART*L 8 6 W Lb2Llbbï 0 0 2 2 L b î 9 W
BS 8103 : Part 1 : 1986
--`,,,``,``,````,`,````````,,`,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
'.t.
1
".?
:" '
.
Fm Or
Overlap Length to be 2s
o r l m whichever i s t h e
greater
(b) Trench fill
Figure 21 (concluded)
Figure 22. Foundations to walls with projections

7 Ground floor slabs
--`,,,``,``,````,`,````````,,`,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
In situ concrete ground-supportedslabs may be used in the BS 146, or alternatively be a suitable designed mix
majority of sites except where the depth of fill exceeds containing a minimum Portland cement content of
600 mm or other circumstances dictate the use of 250 kg/m3. For ground-supportedslabs containing any
suspended construction, as will be described in BS 8103 : embedded metal, the concrete should be grade C20P
Part 4". (ordinary prescribed mix) complying with BS 5328 using
The minimum thickness of a concrete ground-supported a Portland cement, or alternatively be a suitable designed
slab should be 100 mm. The slab should be constructed on mix containing a minimum Portland cement content of
a minimum of 100 mm of inert well-graded fill material, 300 kg/m3. These concrete mix recommendationsare
such as hoggin or other suitable fill, blinded with fine based upon the use of a 20 mm nominal maximum size of
material, see figure 23. Fill material should be compacted aggregate. Other cement types and concrete mixes may be
in layers not greater than 225 mm thick and should not used, but in these cases reference should be made to
contain any pieces that will not pass through a 75 mm BS 81IO.
diameter ring. Sulphate-resistingcement or other suitable concrete mixes
NOTE. Any material containing sulphates easily soluble in ground may be required where sulphates are present in the ground
water should not be regarded as inert. in sufficient quantities to be damaging.
The concrete for the groond-supportedslab should be Loadbearing internal partitions or walls should have
grade CIOP (ordinary prescribed mix) complying with separate foundations independent of the floor slab.
BS 5328 using a cement type complying with BS 12 or
G rou n d-suppor te d s Lab

100 mm min. thick
r \
Compacted f i l l complying
with ciause 7
NOTE. If depth of fill d exceeds 600 mm, a suspended ground floor construction should be used.
Figure 23. I n situ concrete ground-supportedslab
* In preparation.
--`,,,``,``,````,`,````````,,`,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Publicationsreferred to
BS 12 Specification for ordinary and rapid-hardeningPortland cement
BS 146 Portland-blastfurnacecement
BS 4027 Specification for sulphate-resisting Portland cement
BS 5328 Methods for specifying concrete, including ready-mixedconcrete
BS 5628 Code of practice for the structural use of masonry
Part 1 Unreinforced masonry
Part 3 Materials and components, design and workmanship
BS 5930 Code of practice for site investigations
BS 81 10 Structural use of concrete
BS 8103 Structural design of low-rise buildings
Part 2 Code of practice for masonry walls
*Part 3 Code of practice for timber floors and roofs
*Part 4 Code of practice for concrete suspended floors
CP 3 Code of basic data for the design of buildings
Chapter V Loading
Part 2 Wind loads
BRE Digest 250 1981. Concrete in sulphate bearing soils and ground waterst
* In preparation.
t Available from the Building Research Station, Garston, Watford, Herfs WD2 7JR.
BSI BS*BL03 PART*L
This British Standard, having been prepared under the direction of Milton Keynes MK14 6LE. The number for telephone enquiries is
the Civil Engineering and Building Structures Standards Committee, 0908 320033 and for telex 825777.
was published under the authority of the Board of BSI and comes
into effect on 31 March 1986.
O British Standards Institution, 1986
Contract requirements
A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary
provisions of a contract, Users of British Standardsare responsible
a
ISBN O 580 14932 3 for their correct application.
Revision of British Standards
British Standards Institution
British Standards are revised, when necessary, by the issue either
Incorporated by Royal Charter, BSI is the independent national
--`,,,``,``,````,`,````````,,`,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
of amendments or of revised editions. It is important that users of

body for the preparation of British Standards, It is the UK member
of the International Organization for Standardization and UK British Standards should ascertain that they are in possession of
sponsor of the British National Committee of the International the latest amendments or editions. Information on all BSI
publications is in the BS1 Catalogue, supplemented each month by
Electrotechnical Commission.
BS1 News which is available t o subscribing members of the
Copyright Institution and gives details of new publications, revisions,
Users of British Standards are reminded that copyright subsists in amendments and withdrawn standards. Any person who, when
all BSI publications. No part of this publication may be reproduced making use of a British Standard, encounters an inaccuracy or
in any form without the prior permission in writing of BSI. This ambiguity, is requested to notify BSI without delay in order that
does not preclude the free use, in the course of implementing the the matter may be investigated and appropriate action taken.
standard, of necescary details such as symbols and size, type or
grade designations. Enquiries should be addressed to the The following BSI references relate to the work on this standard:
Publications Manager, British Standards Institution, Linford Wood, Committee reference CSB/45 Draft for comment 81/10281 DC
Committees responsible for this British Standard O

The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by the Civil Department of the Environment (Building Research Establishment)
Engineering and Building Structures Standards committee (CSB/-) Department of the Environment (Housing and Construction
to Technical Committee CSB/45, upon which the following bodies Industries)
were represented: Department of the Environment (Property Services Agency)
Aggregate Concrete Block Association Federation of Master Builders
Association of British Insurers House Builders' Federation
Association of Lightweight Aggregate Manufacturers Incorporated Association of Architects and Surveyors
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Products Association Institute of Building Control Officers
Brick Development Association Institution of Civil Engineers
British Ceramic Research Association Institutlon of Structural Engineers
Building Employers' Confederation National Council of Building Materials Producers
Cement and Concrete Association New Towns' Association
Chartered Institute of Building Royal Institute of British Architects
Concrete Society Scottish Development Department
Consumer Standards Advisory Committee of BSI Timber Research and Development Association
a
Amendments issued since publication
Amd. No. Rate of issue Text affected
-
British Standards Institution 2 Park Street London WIA 2BS Telephone 01-629 9000 Telex 266933 - -
8603 -8-4k-B r
CSBl45


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BSI B S * B 1 0 3

Structural design of low-rise buildings

Elaboration des plans de construction des constructions de faible hauteur

Bauliche Durchbildung von Wohngebäuden mit geringer Geschoßzahl

British Standards Institution 7

Copyright British Standards Institution

This Part of BS 8103 has been prepared under the direction

normal ground conditions (see 6.1).

Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself

Copyright British Standards Institution * In preparation.

Foreword Inside front cover

Copyright British Standards Institution

Copyright British Standards Institution

dead and imposed loading. In order to provide overall

Figure 2. Diagram illustrating the action of wind forces

Retained Retained Retained

Figure 3. Walls with a difference in level on opposite sides

Copyright British Standards Institution

Figure 4. Building shape

4.2.3 Height of building. The maximum height above the

4.2.4 Sforey height. The maximum height of any storey

4.3 Wind loading

Copyright British Standards Institution

Figure 6. Measurement of storey height of walls

15.0 Zone 1 only Zones 1 and 2 Zones I*, 2*

Copyright British Standards Institution

Figure 7. Wind exposure zones for the United Kingdom

Copyright British Standards Institution

4.4 Connections between structural elements

Copyright British Standards Institution