With many types of building solutions on the market, it could be difficult to know what option would suit your needs. In this blog we, at PPC Concrete Products, will be answering the question, ‘are interlocking concrete blocks and concrete blocks the same?’
The prominence of bricklaying in England actually came into effect as a result of the great fire in London in 1666. As a result of the mass level of destruction, in 1667 ‘the rebuilding act of London’ was instituted and amongst other stipulations stated that all subsequent homes and dwellings must be made of brick or stone (as they are fire resistant). Thus the UK’s first building regulation was implemented.
As time has gone on, new innovations in building and construction have meant there are far more convenient options available to make the structure you need. One of which is an interlocking concrete block.
The difference between interlocking concrete blocks and concrete block
To explain the difference between the two, it is important to explain the unique aspects of the traditional interlocking concrete block which is as follows.
Interlocking Concrete Blocks & Concrete blocks:
Interlocking concrete blocks are a unique form of pre-cast concrete blocks that are designed to hold together by using pre-measured studs and recesses. Built with unique profiles and features, which allow them to fit perfectly into each other without the use of any mortar. Instead, the cementitious blocks simply snap together with each other.
Depending on the size of the block that is chosen will affect the number of studs that are on the block. In regards to the sizing, interlocking concrete blocks don’t need mortar to be held in place. This means the speed of building is improved, whilst using less manpower.
When it comes to concrete blocks, the differences between the two aside from their name are nominal. The functionality is the same, and the only variants will be the sizes, amount of studs/recesses or styles, such as the ‘rock face’ option we offer. Other suppliers may offer alternative styles and sizes than us and as a result, you may be paying a premium price for it.
How are concrete interlocking blocks made?
The way our blocks are made is by having a casting of the dimensions mentioned below and depending on the option chosen, the cast is then filled with concrete. After drying, the cast is then removed and the blocks are transported to their destination.
Our team over at PPC Concrete Products only supplies interlocking concrete blocks. Though we have a variety of options when it comes to the interlocking concrete blocks that we make. Here are our size options:
- 300 x 600 x 600
- 600 x 600 x 600
- 900 x 600 x 600
- 1200 x 600 x 600
- 1500 x 600 x 600
- 1800 x 600 x 600
- 400 x 800 x 800
- 800 x 800 x 800
- 1200 x 800 x 800
- 1600 x 800 x 800
Half and thirds of the sizes displayed are also offered with your order if needed. Alongside this healthy selection of sizes, we offer the option for your block to be:
- Standard Blocks
- Flat Top Standard Blocks
- Rock Face Block
- Rock Face Flat Top Block
How to make concrete blocks
The production of concrete blocks follows the same process as interlocking concrete blocks, with the differences being in the cast sizes, amount of studs/ recesses or additional material alongside concrete, which again is subject to the supplier and their available options.
How much does a concrete block weigh?
This will vary from size to size, and from the concrete being used. But as an example, 1800 x 600 x 600 concrete block can weigh as little as 1380KG, this can fluctuate as different types of concretes have different levels of density. Although it is almost impossible to move these without heavy machinery, the weight of these blocks serves to reassure you of their stability.
What are interlocking concrete blocks used for?
Interlocking concrete blocks can be used to facilitate the making of:
- Material Storage bays
- Blast walls
- Salt stores
- Crash protection
- Flood protection
- Push walls
- Security barriers
- Segregation bays i.e recycling centres
- Retaining walls
- Industrial buildings
- Fire breaks
- Culverts
- Counterweights
- Roadblocks
And much more.
Considering the variety of sizes, styles and uses available for concrete interlocking blocks, it is always best to consult an expert whenever considering an investment to create a structure of any sort. That is why we at PPC Concrete products are proud to be a trusted supplier of interlocking blocks. Get in contact with us to get a quote as soon as possible.
How to lay interlocking concrete blocks
Laying interlocking concrete blocks depending on their size, weight and quantity would require the use of a telehandler or other machine capable of lifting and placing concrete blocks. The process of laying them depends entirely on the reason for their usage, if serving as a temporary partition, the floor may not need to be treated before placement. However, if it’s for the extension of a home for example, foundations need to be set and flat.
However, generally, floors do not have to be treated before laying an interlocking concrete block. It just depends on the structure that is being made and whether it is temporary or permanent.
After the lowest blocks are placed, the blocks placed on top ‘click’ into place via the pre-cast recesses and studs at the bottom and top of the block respectively. This process is repeated until the desired structure is created.
How to build an interlocking block retaining wall
The first factor before building an interlocking retaining wall is determining the depth of the foundations. If the soil is firm and well-drained, 300mm should be enough. Alternatively, if the soil is not as firm and unstable, 450mm would be suitable. (This will vary depending on the need for the foundation, size, project etc). After the foundation has been measured, made and set, placement of the concrete blocks can take place to the desired height.
As there is no need for mortar or any binding facilitation, interlocking the blocks via stacking so their studs and recesses connect will be more than enough to guarantee a stable structure.
We understand retaining walls can come in different lengths, shapes sizes and for clients who have different needs. So to show you our abilities and expertise, we have a review for you to read that highlights and reviews a job we did for JO Transport.
How much do interlocking blocks cost?
For anybody wondering how much are interlocking concrete blocks, there is no set price for Interlocking concrete blocks because it will depend entirely on your project, preference, size, and quantity you need. Along with this, offloading and installation are available via a third party. This is why we strongly encourage you to contact us on our website to get your quote.
How much are concrete blocks?
Again, much like our blocks, it is hard to tell you the exact price another supplier will offer you, especially when each project is different. The number of blocks, as well as the size and additional material mixed with concrete (if that is offered), will always fluctuate the prices from supplier to supplier. It is always good practice to get in touch with a supplier to obtain a quote for the work you are needing the blocks for and to understand what services and options they offer.
We are here to help
In this article, we hope to have answered the question ‘are interlocking concrete blocks and concrete blocks the same?’. And for all intents and purposes, they serve the same purpose, and have the same functionality, the only differences would be between what individual suppliers offer in their range as a distinctive feature on their blocks. This could be sizes, colours, textures etc.
As an established supplier all over the UK, PPC Concrete Products is always happy to help, which is why we encourage you to get in touch with any questions you may have.
Read our blog page for more insights into our passion, construction.
Address:
The Old Gasworks,
Higginshaw Lane,
Royton,
Oldham,
OL2 6HQ
Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday – 8 AM til 4 PM
Tel: 01706 655245
