Category: Design
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
Floor-to-floor height is the distance between the finished levels of two successive floors, covering the clear room height, slab and beam depth, false ceiling and the services above it. Saudi villas commonly use 3.4 to 3.8 m.
Why it matters on a project
It sets the number of stair risers, facade height and the quantity of blockwork and cladding. Losing 20 cm in design can stop an AC duct passing under the beams.
Worked example
A 3.6 m floor height with 180 mm risers: 3.60 ÷ 0.18 = 20 risers.
Common mistake
Fixing floor height on the architectural side alone, then finding a drop beam and duct leave too little clear height.
Frequently asked questions
What clear room height is usual?
Villas often have about 3 m under the false ceiling, less in bathrooms and corridors for services.
Does a taller floor cost more?
It adds blockwork, cladding, columns and stairs, so every 10 cm counts.
Related terms
- LevelThe vertical height of a point relative to a datum (zero level).
- StaircaseA concrete or steel element linking floors with risers, treads and landings.
- Suspended (false) ceilingA secondary ceiling hung below the structural slab to conceal services and improve acoustics and lighting.
- Drop beamA beam whose depth projects below the slab.
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