Blockwork is a construction method using large, often hollow, concrete blocks laid with mortar to form structural walls and other elements, offering strength, fire resistance, and insulation. The process involves preparing surfaces, laying blocks in courses with consistent mortar joints, and often incorporating reinforcement and concrete for enhanced structural integrity. After completion, blockwork is typically rendered for aesthetic and water-resistance purposes.
Materials and Properties
- Blocks:Typically made from concrete or cement, they are larger than standard bricks and can have hollow cores to reduce weight and improve insulation.
- Mortar:Used to bind the blocks together, forming a strong, cohesive wall.
- Reinforcement:Steel bars can be inserted into the block cores to increase the wall’s tensile strength.
- Fillers:Hollow cores can also be filled with insulating materials like expanded polystyrene for thermal efficiency.
Construction Process
- 1. Preparation:This includes checking drawings, ensuring surfaces are clean and ready, and marking the floor levels for accurate block placement.
- 2. Laying the first course:The foundation course is carefully laid, checked for alignment, and may have its hollow blocks filled with concrete to provide support and a stable base.
- 3. Subsequent courses:Blocks are laid on top of the previous course, maintaining consistent mortar joint thicknesses of approximately 10mm.
- 4. Incorporating reinforcement:Steel reinforcement is placed, and concrete bands are added at regular intervals to increase wall strength.
- 5. Curing:The completed blockwork is kept moist for a period to allow the mortar to cure properly, ensuring its strength.
Applications and Benefits
- Applications:Used for load-bearing walls, internal partitions, retaining walls, and foundations.
- Benefits:
- Strength and Durability: Provides robust and long-lasting structures.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Blocks are relatively inexpensive, and the simplified construction reduces labor costs.
- Versatility: Available in various sizes, densities, and types to suit different construction needs.
- Thermal and Acoustic Insulation: Hollow-core blocks improve a building’s insulation properties, reducing heat transfer and sound.
- Fire Resistance: Blockwork offers inherent fire-resistant properties.
Finishing
- Blockwork walls typically require a final finish, such as rendering, to improve their appearance and water resistance.