The task of wall construction involves different materials, but the most essential material used in these projects is concrete blocks. They are classified into two main categories – hollow concrete blocks and solid concrete blocks. Both these varieties are useful in wall construction, and both are equally good and versatile. However, since solid concrete blocks are completely solid, they can be assumed to be more robust compared to hollow concrete blocks. Let us dive into the details of concrete blocks of different types.

SOLID BLOCKS Vs HOLLOW CONCRETE BLOCKS

As mentioned above, these blocks are available in two varieties: hollow concrete blocks and solid concrete blocks. These two are the most common types in construction, and the fully solid blocks are more frequently used as they are more robust. Apart from wall construction, solid blocks offered by concrete block suppliers are also used in paving projects and other similar projects where stability and endurance both are mandatory. On the other hand, hollow blocks are used to create boundary walls and other huge buildings.

These hollow blocks have holes that occupy more than one-quarter of their cross-sectional area. They are lighter than solid concrete blocks and more advantageous for running wires or pipes through them. Putting rebar through the holes can provide them with extra stability.

WHAT ARE HOLLOW CONCRETE BLOCKS?

Hollow concrete blocks offered by concrete blocks suppliers offering besser blocks for sale come in three different grades, and the first grade or the grade A has a minimum density of 1500 KG/M3. The density of grade-B hollow blocks is less than 1500 KG/M3, and the density of grade-C is larger than 1000 Kg/M3. Out of all these types, concrete blocks suppliers recommend grade A and grade B for load-bearing concrete block walls. Grade C is recommended for non-load-bearing walls.

They are available in several sizes, including 100 mm x 200 mm x 400 mm, 150 mm x 200 mm x 400 mm, and 200 mm x 200 mm x 400 mm. They are most commonly grey but can also be found in other colours, such as tan and dark red.

WHAT ARE SOLID CONCRETE BLOCKS?

Modern-day solid blocks look like grey bricks, but they are typically larger than bricks. They are highly functional in building walls to protect against strong winds. They are also used in garden walls and planters for constructing retaining walls, foundations, steps, fire pits, etc. Solid concrete blocks are heavier, but they are also less expensive.

SOLID CONCRETE BLOCK TYPES

There is a huge diversification available in terms of solid concrete blocks. They can serve a wide variety of purposes and some details are presented below beginning with fly ash blocks.

WHAT ARE FLY ASH BLOCKS?

Fly ash blocks are made of fly ash or a fine powder-like substance mixed with water to produce a material similar to cement. They are used in more than half of the concrete used in Australia and in projects like road construction, etc. Two types of fly ash are used in construction projects, and the names are Class C and Class F.

Concrete blocks are available in small sizes, as they become less durable when they grow larger. This lack of durability increases the chances of fractures and cracks. They are found in several colours, such as amber, brown, grey, green olive, red, and yellow.

AERATED AUTOCLAVE BLOCKS

Aerated autoclave blocks are made from lightweight material with excellent sound and temperature insulation. It is not used as widely as other concrete blocks, but it is highly fire-resistant and a better insulator than others. The material used in their construction can be easily shaped and used with nails and screws as well.

PAVING BLOCKS

Paving blocks are solid square or rectangular blocks used for paving and constructing road shoulders, walkways, etc. They are available in the shape of bricks and can be in different sizes and colours like sandstone, dark brown, charcoal, light grey, etc.

Then, there are cellular lightweight solid concrete blocks made from home fly ash and cement to provide excellent sound and temperature insulation. They are also fire-resistant, environmentally friendly, and affordable. Another very versatile option to mention here is expanded clay aggregate concrete blocks made from lightweight fly ash and cement aggregates. These aggregate blocks are completely waterproof and fire-resistant, and since they are very lightweight, they can reduce the overall structural load by 50%.