Different Types of Concrete Blocks

Concrete masonry units or CMU are blocks that are commonly used in the construction industry to create design concrete structures for walls or fences. This is frequently used in building houses, landscaping Gold Coast and in any construction projects. If you are planning to create something with your landscape, you should consider knowing more about concrete masonry units or concrete blocks.

Concrete bricks. These are typically small rectangular blocks that are piled and arranged systematically to create walls. Some manufacturers use solid concrete while others combine it with cement for economic reasons. Concrete blocks can also be customised as some people colour them according to their preferences.

Hollow concrete blocks. These type of concrete blocks are manufactured using lightweight aggregates with specific load designs. According to a study, hollow concrete blocks have voids of ¼ its gross area and its solid area should be half or more than its area to get its allowable load capacity efficiently.

Solid concrete blocks. Compared to concrete blocks, these are bigger and denser, which makes it stronger. Builders use solid concrete blocks for large masonry units as they are strong enough to withstand forces. These are quite similar to concrete bricks, but it is way costlier due to the extra benefits it provides.

Lintel blocks. These are commonly used in the preparation of lintel beams. Lintel blocks are manufactured in a way that it can formwork itself and serve as a masonry unit. They have deep grooves where reinforcing bars are combined with the concrete. Most builders found these useful as these blocks provide different purposes.

Paving blocks. Commonly square or rectangular and made up of reinforced concrete. These blocks are typically used in road and paving shoulders. Paving blocks should be painted with high-visibility paints so it can be seen easily by drivers. These blocks are also strong enough to receive any impact.

Aerated autoclaved concrete block. These blocks are the bigger and lighter version of bricks. They are made up of the same mixtures as of bricks but with different compositions, which make the materials a vessel for cost-cutting. While using this type of concrete block, it reduces the overall concrete and steel usage by 10% and 15%. However, bricks are more superior regarding construction time, adaptation to different surfaces and fire resistance.

If you’re planning to engage in landscaping Gold Coast, you should consider knowing every characteristic of each concrete block as they have different purposes. It is essential to know what suits your preference to have a perfect landscape creation and design.