What materials are acceptable for the joists supporting the stone slabs?

Timber, structural steel, or reinforced/precast concrete can be used as joists, provided they are designed for the applied dead and live loads.

How should the stone slabs be laid on the joists?

They should be laid on a full, even bed of mortar to ensure uniform load transfer and prevent flexural cracking of the stone.

Is this code still widely used in modern construction?

No, it is relatively rare in modern mainstream construction but remains essential for heritage restoration and traditional regional masonry buildings.

IS 2792

: 1964

Code of practice for design and construction of stone slab over joist floor

CurrentRareCode of PracticeStructural Engineering · Building Construction Practices incl. Painting, Varnishing

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This standard provides guidelines for the design and construction of traditional floors comprising stone slabs supported over timber, steel, or precast concrete joists. It covers material requirements, design considerations for joist spacing and slab thickness, and construction practices like bedding, bearing, and pointing.

Code of practice for design and construction of stone slab over joist floor

Quick Reference Values

minimum bearing of stone slab40 mm

typical maximum clear span1.2 m

Practical Notes

Stone slabs must be thoroughly checked for cracks, weathering defects, and proper flexural strength before use.

Uniform bedding in mortar over the joists is critical; uneven bearing creates point loads that easily crack brittle stone slabs.

This code is highly relevant for conservation architecture, heritage restorations, and traditional construction in stone-rich regions like Rajasthan.