The World of Masonry

Apparently, the more I stay in the world of construction, the more I happen to add knowledge in material construction. Thus, I’d like to share the main material we’re all using in Partitioning, Concrete Hollow Blocks. CHB, or CMU (Concrete Masonry Units) are used all over the world. But as Modernization conquers the world, so is the transformation of works and methodology in using one. In the project I have assigned at, I would have to say that it had given me the chance to explore different types of this:

6”

Whenever I design a residential house, I always use a 6” CHB for the exterior walls (as what I could actually remember from my college days). But since I am currently working on a design and build project, 6” has been used on its exterior walls as well. A 150mm CHB could resist wind loads compared to other thickness of CHB.

4”

4” CHB are usually used on interior walls. Some use it on exterior wall footings, while others use it as zocallos. However, in general it still does depend on the Specification of the Designer. I’ve been using 100mm CHB thickness to residential houses too since its always available over the market similar to a 150mm CHB.

3”

This CHB thickness is getting more and more interesting especially when I tell you that there is a 3” CHB (or should a say a scary-to-install-type of CHB). Not that I’m saying it isn’t doable. Just by looking at it and being installed makes me wonder how sturdy and long it’ll actually last. But, they won’t invent one if it isn’t possible right. The methodology I have been experiencing now in terms of its installation so most likely similar to any other thickness. 600mm rebar spacing horizontal and vertical. But we would recommend installing stiffener columns every 2.40m or less for assurance that it won’t fall. But having to monitor the installation made me realize I won’t be recommending the use of it. Aside that it isn’t used all the time; the sturdiness is still questionable in terms of its wind load and others to wherever it may be installed.

Louver Blocks

Louver blocks are used for ventilation. More or less used on Auxiliary Buildings for equipment exhausts and probably to some other items that needs ventilation. Isn’t it too pretty to be beautifully moulding in this way.

Smart Blocks

Aren’t these types of CHB such a gem. Aside that it looks easier to install, it’s so sleek and clean when you look at it. Though I’ve never handled any of this, just by looking at it makes me want to use it. But that is if the budget fits.

I know that there are still other CHB’s out there that I’ve never really encountered yet but I hope this’ll give you some recap on what we all construction supervisors have been dealing with.