These days construction companies are more likely to use concrete foundations that are poured rather than foundations built with concrete blocks. Concrete poured has become more popular because of a variety of reasons. Wall forms that can be quickly built and then removed as well as concrete trucks that are able to be used almost anywhere, and modern pumps and admixtures that make "impossible' pours almost routine. Despite all the advantages concrete block wall mentioned above, concrete block can be used as an appropriate foundation material. If the foundation isn't too big such as a house addition for instance, a builder can save money by laying up a block foundation instead of subcontracting the work to foundation contractors. Likewise foundations for crawl spaces are able to be efficiently and quickly built with blocks of concrete. And for a DIYer who has masonry expertise, this material provides an opportunity to complete the foundation block by block each step. Before getting any deeper into this "heavy" subject, it's worth clearing up some terminology. In the world of construction concrete blocks are often referred to as "CMUs," short for concrete masonry units. Beyond the typical 16x8x8 in. concrete block stocking most home centers, the vast array of CMU dimensions, shapes and surfaces is truly astounding. A majority of the CMUs are designed for commercial use. Concrete blocks are constructed of the same materials found in concrete walls -gravel (called aggregate) as well as sand, Portland cement and water. The blocks that weigh less than a pound are often referred to cinder blocks because fly ash (cinders) which is a product from industrial combustion, can be used to substitute heavier ingredients like sand and aggregate. The hollow cores found in many CMUs help to make the block more economical and easier to work with. Cores may be filled using concrete sand or foam insulation to increase the strength, thermal mass and insulation. Contrary to popular opinion it is true that a block foundation made of concrete isn't inherently inferior to a poured concrete foundation, provided that it's properly constructed. Both kinds of masonry require steel reinforcement and must be placed on a sturdy, stable footing. Proper drainage and damp proofing features are vital. When expansive soils and other outside forces damage the concrete block foundation cracks usually appear along the mortar joints that create the separation between individual blocks.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Archives
December 2022
Categories |