Engineering and fabrication

Why would a housing slab need a metal strip placed on top of it?

When is it ever necessary to use a metal strip or plate on a concrete house slab which in turn supports the outside brickwork? We have a metal strip jutting out at an approximately 15 degree angle. We were told by the builder that we should have it covered up for cosmetic reasons but we think the builder is trying to hide faulty construction as we and an independent builder can't see or understand the reason for the presence of this metal on top of the slab. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated as we fear that this section of the house is not secure. It may be important to note that we have found window frames and door frames, walls etc out of square and are wondering if this could be a result of the slab being defective and perhaps too short in part. Help, please. We fear we have been conned.

Public Comments

1. If its on the peremeter its probably rebar and should not be protruding, if its out in the slab its probably the wire mesh. Either way it should not be there. Better have it inspected by a different party before its to late to catch all the bad stuff before it gets hidden.


2. So moisture don't leak into the Bomb shelter.


3. its probably just the flashing...is there weep holes in the head joints every so often? this is to drain any moisture that may collect behind the brick...