HOLLOW CONCRETE BLOCK MASONRY

Concrete blocks having core void area larger than 25% of the gross area is termed as hollow concrete blocks.

These blocks are manufactured in different shapes and sizes as shown in the following figure.

Some of the standard sizes of hollow concrete blocks are as follow.

• Standard size hollow concrete block – 39 cm * 19 cm * 30 cm
• Hollow building tiles – 39 cm * 19 cm * 20 cm
• Hollow concrete blocks for partitions – 39 cm * 19 cm * 10 cm

Face thickness of these blocks are normally kept 5 cm or more.

Advantages of Hollow Concrete Block Masonry

1. Rapid Execution of Work

Hollow concrete block are of uniform and regular size and it has less weight. This facilitates rapid execution of work.

2. Increase in Floor Area

It is possible to construct thin walls using hollow blocks. Therefore it helps to save space and increase floor area.

3. Reduces Construction Cost

Hollow block helps in saving construction materials and therefore use of hollow block reduces construction cost.

Use of larger size concrete block reduces number of joints in work and hence helps in saving mortar.

4. Better Insulation Properties

Hollow concrete block have good insulating properties against sound, heat and dampness.

5. More Durable

Hollow concrete block masonry can safely withstand the atmospheric action and it requires no protective covering.

6. Employment of Unskilled Labour

Unskilled labour can also be employed in the construction of hollow concrete block masonry.

7. Good Bonding of Mortar & Plaster

Presence of rough surface on concrete blocks provides good bonding of mortar and plaster.