What Are Interlocking Concrete Blocks Used For?

With the necessity of time and cost efficient building solutions being needed, as construction output in Great Britain has seen an increase, interlocking concrete blocks are a great solution for your construction needs. At PPC Concrete Products, will be answering the question, what are interlocking concrete blocks used for?

Bricklaying has existed since 7000BC, helping to create structures of any variety, 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.

So what are interlocking concrete blocks used for?

Much like the plastic toy Lego pieces, Concrete Lego Blocks come with nipples on top of them, to help you stack them together neatly in a solid formation. As they are stackable and low maintenance, these concrete blocks are easy to install and can be organised in many different shapes and patterns.

These Lego-like concrete blocks are suitable for permanent structures, such as retaining walls, as well as temporary works (for example, for creating barriers for music festivals and rail lines).

So what are interlocking concrete blocks used for?

So for those wondering ‘what are interlocking concrete blocks used for?’ interlocking concrete blocks, 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
  • Temporary and/or permanent building structures

And much more. Now we know what interlocking concrete blocks are used for, let us understand why they are becoming popular.

As building regulations came into being in England, the requirements of having fire proof 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, 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.

Below is an example of what interlocking concrete blocks can be used for.

Building a retaining wall with interlocking concrete blocks

For those who want an example of what interlocking concrete blocks are used for, here we explain the building of a retaining wall using our blocks.

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 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

How much do interlocking concrete blocks weigh?

This will vary from size to size, and from the concrete being used. But as an example, 1800 x 600 x 600 concrete lego 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 the 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

Jersey Barriers

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 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.

Find the block for your building needs today

In this article, we hope to have answered the question ‘What are interlocking concrete blocks used for?’ Whilst also providing extra information in regards to construction and 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