Reinforced concrete slabs can be divided into 2 types. They are In situ and precast slab. Insitu means a slab cast in place. Precast means that the slab is produced somewhere else and then transported to site for installation.

Cast in place slabs are further divided into 3 types. They are solid slab, flat slab and ribbed slab.

Solid slabs refers to slabs supported by beams or walls. They are economical up to spans of 5m

Flat slab refers to  a slab supported by columns only. The main advantage flat slabs have over solid slabs is that they are easier to construct. Also, widows can extend to the underside of a flat slab since it doesn’t require beams for support. The main disadvantage for these types of slab is that they are prone to punching shear. Flat slabs are economical for spans ranging from 5m to 9m.

Ribbed slabs are Slabs in which part of the slab in the tension zone has been omitted thereby reducing its weight considerably. They have higher formwork costs compared to other slab systems.Ribbed slabs are economical for spans ranging from 8m – 12m.