What are FF and FL numbers?

Since it was introduced in the 1970s, F-numbers have proven

to be useful in measuring and improving concrete floor
flatness and levelness. With modern finishing equipment,
achieving overall floor flatness and levelness has made it
easy for flatwork finish

AUGUST 13, 2015

Since it was introduced in the 1970s, F-numbers have proven to be useful

in measuring and improving concrete floor flatness and levelness. With
modern finishing equipment, achieving overall floor flatness and levelness
has made it easy for flatwork finishers.

F-number measurements are standardized under ASTM E 1155 Standard

Test Method for Determining FF Floor Flatness and FL Floor Levelness
Numbers and the ACI 302.1R-04 Guide for Concrete Floor and Slab
Construction provides F-number recommendations for hard-troweled
slabs-on-ground and suspended slab surfaces.

FF/FL numbers
Floor flatness (FF) controls the bumpiness of the floor surface and is
primarily affected by the finishing operations after screeding, including
restraightening and power floating. Essentially, FF numbers evaluate the
elevation differences along a sample line at one-foot intervals. F numbers
extend from zero to infinity so the higher the F number, the flatter the floor.

Floor levelness (FL) controls the departure of the floor surface from the
specified slope or plane of the surface. FL numbers evaluate the elevation
differences along a sample line at 10-foot intervals. The higher the
FL number, the more level the floor. Levelness of the edge forms and the
accuracy of the concrete screeding operation control the overall levelness
of the floor. A self-propelled, laser-guided screed can routinely
create FL numbers of about 35 and higher.

FF/FL numbers have the following floor flatness classifications:

FF 25/ FL 20 moderately flat

 FF 35/ FL 25 flat

FF 45/ FL 35 very flat

FF 60/ FL 40 super flat

When should you measure F F/FL?

A word of caution, FF/FL numbers diminish with time due to concrete
shrinkage and slab curling. With the passage of time, joints and cracks curl
making the floor less flat. Therefore, flatness and levelness should be
measured as soon as possible, preferably within 24-hours after concrete
placement but no later than 72 hours. If you are unable to make a
measurement within the specified time frame, F F and FL numbers may not
represent the true performance of your work.

Routinely placing very flat and super flat floors requires an understanding
of floor flatness and how to properly use the equipment. More importantly, it
requires practice and continuous self-evaluation. Always review your
FF/FL numbers and critique your placing and finishing techniques. Then
make adjustments and improve on your next placement.

Ed. Note: To read previous articles on this topic,

visit www.ForConstructionPros.com .

"How to Finish Flatter Concrete Floors", search using 10704608.

"The Limitations of F-Number Specifications", search using

10843488.