The slab is a composite building material of Portland cement, sand, water and other additives used in replacement of poured concrete in making walls, pads and many other structures. This material can be found in a wide range of designs in order to accommodate different varieties applications.

Characteristics

The slab commonly found for sale in standard rectangular pieces of 8 x 8 x 16 inches in size (20 x 20 40 cm approximately). Usually they have about 3/8 inch (about 9 mm) less than the specified measure because it is necessary to leave space for the application of the mortar mix. The slab may be solid or hollow core. The latter has cavities that reduce weight, but also offer less resistance. Concrete blocks generally are also known as concrete masonry units (CMU or concrete masonry units) or masonry blocks.

Types

The standard concrete block divides often in two or three main types. The corners of each regular block extend slightly beyond the face to help hide the mortar in the finished wall, while blocks for corners and finished edges without these extended, thereby producing a smooth appearance at intersections . The Sash units are pieces precut to fit in around jambs and windows as well as to accommodate the door frames. Blocks face (apparent) has a top layer designed to conceal the core, whereas the head units are designed to fit on top or bottom of the window opening.

Appearance

These blocks can be smooth or with a split face. A block division, has a rough surface that adds texture to a building and often is much more expensive than smooth parts. The blocks can also be dyed with pigments or dyes and comprehensive finishing type “bull nose” which implies rounded edges to improve the overall appearance. The block has a glaze porcelain coating makes it suitable for applications exposed to moisture or for sanitary purposes.

Installation

When installing concrete blocks, the builder must decide whether or not to use a stronger technique. The reinforced concrete blocks, facilities use steel bars that are placed within the nuclei of each block to improve the strength and durability. The technique does not use reinforced metal bars, and thus hard and resists much less than a reinforced structure. This type of block is installed on a foundation of concrete and masonry mortar required to attach each row of parts. The joints of each row are staggered to create a more stable structure. The blocks are cut with masonry hammer and chisel to suit each row.

Benefits

The concrete block provides a number of benefits in the construction of walls, foundations and other structures. It is highly resistant to fire, insects and mold and in general, is expected to last for years with little or no maintenance. This material is much cheaper than pouring cement and is installed faster, which significantly reduces the cost of labor and the use of special equipment associated with installation.