![]() ![]() Their actual dimensions are 3⁄ 8 inch (9.5 mm) less than the nominal dimensions (to allow for 3⁄ 8-inch mortar joints between blocks in any orientation). In the US, CMU blocks are nominally 16 in (410 mm) long and 8 in (200 mm) wide. ![]() Lightweight blocks can also be produced using autoclaved aerated concrete these are widely used for construction in Finland and other Scandinavian countries, as well as in central Europe, for the material's inherent thermal isolation characteristics, as are expanded clay aggregate blocks.īlocks come in modular sizes, with the most popular typically referred to (by their thickness) as "4-inch", "6-inch", "8-inch", and "12-inch". ![]() Use of recycled materials within blocks can create different appearances in the block, such as a terrazzo finish, and may help the finished structure earn LEED certification. Recycled materials, such as post-consumer glass, slag cement, or recycled aggregate, are often used in the composition of the blocks. Lower density blocks may use industrial wastes, such as fly ash or bottom ash, as an aggregate. Portland cement and aggregate, usually sand and fine gravel, for high-density blocks). Clinker blocks use clinker as aggregate.Ĭoncrete blocks are made from cast concrete (e.g. In Australia, they are known as Besser blocks or Besser bricks, because the Besser Company was a major supplier of machines that made concrete blocks. Those that use cinders ( fly ash or bottom ash) as an aggregate material are called cinder blocks in the United States, breeze blocks ( breeze is a synonym of ash) in the United Kingdom, and hollow blocks in the Philippines. The use of blockwork allows structures to be built in the traditional masonry style with layers (or courses) of staggered blocks.Ĭoncrete blocks may be produced with hollow centers (cores) to reduce weight, improve insulation and provide an interconnected void into which concrete can be poured to solidify the entire wall after it is built.ĬMUs are some of the most versatile building products available because of the wide variety of appearances that can be achieved using them. A building constructed with concrete masonry blocksĪ concrete masonry unit ( CMU, also known as a cinder block, breeze block or by various other terms) is a standard-size rectangular block used in building construction. ![]()
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