Types of concrete blocks | Characteristics Of Different Types Of Blocks

The concrete block is a construction material composed of Portland cement, sand, water and other additives that are used to replace concrete cast in the construction of walls, shoes and many other structures. It is possible to find this material in a wide range of varieties conceived in order to adapt to different applications.

Characteristics

The concrete block is usually available for sale in standard pieces of rectangular shape of 8 x 8 x 16 inches in dimension (approximately 20 x 20 40 cm). Usually, they are about 3/8 of an inch (about 9 mm) less than the specified size because it is necessary to leave space for the application of the mortar mix. The concrete block may have a solid or hollow core. The latter has cavities that reduce weight, but also offer less resistance. Concrete blocks in general, are also known as concrete units for masonry (concrete masonry units or CMU in English) or masonry blocks.

Types

The standard concrete block is often divided into two or three main varieties. The corners of each regular block extend slightly beyond the face to help hide the mortar on the finished wall, while the blocks for angles and finishing do not have these edges extended, thus producing a smooth appearance at intersections . Sash units are pre-cut pieces to fit in jambs and around windows, as well as to accommodate door frames. Face blocks (apparent) have a top layer designed to hide the core, while head units are designed to fit in the top or bottom of a window opening.

Appearance

These blocks can be smooth or with a divided face. A block with division has a rough surface that adds texture to a building and often is much more expensive than smooth pieces. The blocks can also be dyed with pigments or integral dyes and with a finish “bull nose”, which implies rounded edges to improve the overall appearance. The glaze block has a porcelain coating that makes it suitable for applications exposed to humidity or for sanitary uses.

Installation

When installing concrete blocks, the builder must decide whether or not to use a reinforced technique. Installations reinforced with concrete blocks, use steel bars that are placed inside the cores of each block to improve strength and durability. The non-reinforced technique does not use metal bars, and therefore lasts and resists much less than a structure with reinforcements.

This type of block is installed on a concrete foundation and requires masonry mortar to fix each row of pieces. The joints in each row are staggered to create a more stable structure. The blocks are cut with hammer and masonry chisel to suit each row.

Benefits

The concrete block offers a series of benefits in the construction of walls, foundations and other structures. It is highly resistant to fire, insects and mold and in general, is expected to last for years with little or no maintenance. This material is much cheaper than cast cement and is installed faster, which considerably reduces labor costs and the use of special equipment associated with the installation.