Blocks are larger than bricks. The larger blocks permit rapid and economical construction, giving better strength, finishes, densities and thermal properties. However, they are less versatility in laying especially when building up ends or corners and also laying to curves. Generally blocks are intended to be plastered. Generally, there are two types of blocks:
1. Clay Blocks
Clay blocks are generally extruded hollow units. The material used in their manufacture is the same as clay bricks. After firing, clay blocks are dense, hard and brittle which make them difficult to cut and fix. Clay block construction is an extremely versatile and efficient way to build. Its excellent energy saving characteristics combined with the build quality and speed will outperform most other traditional aggregate blocks. A clay block does not rust or warp and is resistant to fire and attack from insects. They require very little immediate or on-going maintenance and lend themselves to an array of final surface finishes. It is suitable for single and multi-storey applications. Clay block construction projects are highly eco-friendly. The blocks themselves have less environmental impact during their manufacture than most other building materials, and the finished building offers very high insulation values. Although on first appearance the price of each unit can be a little higher than other construction methods, when costs for materials and laying are taken into account clay blocks become an attractive, cost effective and realistic alternative to traditional brick and block cavity walls.
Concrete block is also called a concrete masonry unit (CMU). It is one of the precast concrete used as a building material in the construction of walls. Most concrete blocks have one or more hollow cavities to reduce weight or improve insulation, and their sides may be cast smooth or with a design. In use, concrete blocks are stacked one at a time and held together with fresh concrete mortar to form the desired length and height of the wall. The simple concrete block will continue to evolve as architects and block manufacturers develop new shapes and sizes. These new blocks have made building construction faster and less expensive, as well as result in structures that are more durable and energy efficient. Generally, fire resistance of concrete blocks is good.
1. Concrete Blocks
Concrete block is also called a concrete masonry unit (CMU). It is one of the precast concrete used as a building material in the construction of walls. Most concrete blocks have one or more hollow cavities to reduce weight or improve insulation, and their sides may be cast smooth or with a design. In use, concrete blocks are stacked one at a time and held together with fresh concrete mortar to form the desired length and height of the wall. The simple concrete block will continue to evolve as architects and block manufacturers develop new shapes and sizes. These new blocks have made building construction faster and less expensive, as well as result in structures that are more durable and energy efficient. Generally, fire resistance of concrete blocks is good.
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