Benefits of Interlocking Concrete Blocks

Interlocking concrete blocks are a unique and efficient building solution, but we understand you may have some questions. We, at PPC Concrete Products, will be showing you the benefits of Interlocking Concrete Blocks.

Bricklaying has existed since 7000 BC, 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.

But why is this efficient and practical alternative to traditional bricklaying becoming so popular? Well, The latest statistics on the construction output of Great Britain paint an interesting picture, here are some take-home points:

  • Monthly construction output increased by 0.4% in volume terms in August 2022, which is the second consecutive monthly growth following the upwardly revised increase to 0.1% in July 2022; August 2022 is the second highest monthly value in level terms (£15,011 million), with May 2022 remaining at the highest level since records began in January 2010 (£15,035 million).
  • The increase in monthly construction output in August 2022 came solely from an increase in new work (1.9%), as repair and maintenance saw a decrease (2.0%) in the month.
  • At the sector level, the main contributors to the increase seen in August 2022 were infrastructure, private industrial and private housing new work, which increased by 5.3%, 4.3% and 1.7%, respectively. You can read the full statistics here.

What this information tells us so far, is that the demand for construction is not really taking any step back, but what does this have to do with interlocking concrete blocks? Well, once we explain all about them, you will understand the terrific value these blocks can hold.

So what are interlocking concrete blocks used for?

As building regulations came into being in England, the requirement of having fireproof dwellings was compulsory, this was achieved by subsequent houses being made of stone and brick.

This traditional way of building has now been made even more easy, more efficient and safe because of interlocking concrete blocks.

Interlocking Concrete Blocks are a multi-purpose, reliable and efficient addition to anyone within construction. Whether it’s a private landowner or an architect, interlocking concrete blocks can prove to be a vital addition to any building. But what are interlocking 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.

Interlocking Concrete Blocks are made to be used as part of the building process since they’re affordable. It can be used as a temporary or permanent feature, this is why many home remodelling projects employ interlocking blocks as a building material. Additionally, there are many benefits when using this type of concrete construction material.

Benefits of interlocking concrete blocks

Interlocking Concrete Blocks are a quick and easy way of having the benefits of the cast in situ concrete structures without having to go through the hassle and expense of foundations, steel reinforcing and shuttering.

Alternatively, they can be a replacement for Gabion Baskets as they are far more cost-effective, quicker and easier to install as well as long-lasting/more durable. They offer their user the ability to create structures in a time-efficient and convenient manner.

Interlocking concrete wall blocks also have excellent freeze-thaw resistance, so they won’t be damaged in extreme weather conditions. As they require very little maintenance, they are particularly useful for creating covered storage bays to protect agricultural equipment and supplies from the elements.

Installing an interlocking concrete block wall segregates larger spaces into smaller, safer zones meaning that fire protection is increased by creating a containment area or fire break in a building.

The thickness, strength and composition of interlocking concrete blocks also give them excellent fire resistance properties, helping to stop a fire from spreading.

Let us quickly summarize the benefits of interlocking concrete blocks:

  • Longer lasting and more durable than a Gabion basket
  • Quicker and less hassle to install
  • No need for mortar, saving you money and time
  • No need for steel reinforcement or shuttering
  • Resistent to extreme weather conditions
  • Fire resistant properties, mitigating the spread of fire depending on structure
  • Little maintenance required
  • Often, no foundation is needed before installing
  • Sound resistant
  • Sustainable
  • Ability to stack them upon each other
  • Flexibility in sizes
  • Appropriate for temporary and/or permanent buildings
  • Unlikely to be displaced due to the interlocking function
  • Can be moved with standard lifting equipment

Alongside these benefits of interlocking concrete blocks, they can be used to create:

  • 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.

With so many benefits of interlocking concrete blocks, as we continue, we will share an example of our interlocking concrete blocks in practice, with the Jersey barrier.

Interlocking concrete blocks - Jersey barrier

Our heavy duty Jersey Barriers interlocking blocks easily lock in to place next to one another making the creation of barriers a breeze. Whether it’s a barrier for a construction site, or for separating lanes on the road, Jersey barrier blocks are the solution.

Cost effective

The cost of manufacturing Jersey Barriers is very cost effective and due to their interlocking system, our barriers can be easily picked up and used elsewhere saving money through repurposing.

Ultimate Security

Our Jersey Barriers are heavy duty interlocking blocks that provide the ultimate anti-vehicle perimeter protection. They can also be used for flood protection, site security, edge protection and temporary works.

Easy to Install

Due to the simple interlocking system our Jersey Barriers easily lock in to place next to one another making the creation of barriers a breeze.

Longer lasting more durable

All our concrete Jersey Barriers are made on site using our own moulds from locally sourced raw materials. Our Barriers go through rigorous testing and have to pass the strictest of quality control procedures.

How are interlocking concrete 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 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

Laying an interlocking concrete block

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.

Experience the benefits of interlocking concrete blocks today

In this article, we hope to have shared with you the benefits of interlocking concrete blocks

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

Email: info@ppcconcreteproducts.co.uk