Structural Design for Suspended Garage Slab and Steel Framing – Picton
This project involved the structural design of a suspended concrete garage slab over a partial basement at a residential property in Picton, Ontario.
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The scope was limited to structural elements only, including composite slab design, steel beam supports, and load transfer into the foundation walls, in accordance with the Ontario Building Code and applicable CSA standards.
Location: Picton, Ontario
Completion: October 2025
Sector: Residential
1. The Challenge
The project included a suspended garage slab spanning over a lower-level basement area, requiring coordination between concrete, structural steel, and composite deck systems.
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Existing Structural Constraints:
The design needed to integrate with ICF foundation walls and architectural layouts prepared by others, with defined slab openings and stair penetrations.​
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Constructability Considerations:
Clear detailing was required to address beam pockets, bearing conditions, anchor rods, and reinforcement continuity at slab openings.
2. The Engineering Solution
Parsways developed a coordinated structural design package addressing the suspended slab and supporting system.
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a) Composite Slab Design:
A reinforced concrete slab on composite steel deck was designed, including shear studs, top reinforcement, and detailing around slab openings.
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b) Structural Steel Support:
Steel beams were specified to support the slab, with defined bearing plates, anchor rods, and non-shrink grout at supports.
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c) Foundation Interface Detailing:
Beam pockets, pilasters, and minimum concrete bearing requirements were detailed for integration with ICF foundation walls by others.
3. The Outcome
The project resulted in a fully stamped, permit-ready structural design accepted by the local authority. The engineered slab and steel beam system provided a clear and reliable load path over the basement space, reduced construction risk through precise detailing, and ensured long-term structural performance in compliance with OBC 2024 and relevant CSA standards.