Block wall is made using concrete block, also known as CMU (Concrete Masonry Unit). In the making of CMU's, concrete is compacted into a mold in the shape and size of the finished units. Concrete block is also mistakenly known as "cinder block" and is an incorrect way of describing the product. Cinder block walls were manufactured using a blend of coal cinders and concrete, whereas concrete block is produced using only concrete. Concrete block is also called “hollow block” as they are not solid and have “cells” in the block design that allow steel reinforcing to be placed in the block wall. A block wall needs to be constructed on a properly designed, continuous foundation that is designed to meet local codes for wind load (more about concrete hurricane fencing), soil conditions, and seismic requirements where applicable.
Because block tends to be larger than standard brick, a block wall can be constructed faster than a traditional brick wall. Also, concrete and cinder blocks absorb much less water than bricks and thus tend to have a longer life span. Block is often used as the structural core for veneered masonry, or is used alone for the walls where the overall appearance is not the most important factor. Block wall can also be covered with stucco or plaster to achieve different finishes.
The main advantage of concrete block walls in comparison to smaller, clay-based bricks is that a concrete block wall can be reinforced by either fully grouting the voids or inserting vertical lengths of rebar posts and using grout to hold them in place. This way, a CMU block wall can be built much stronger and more durable than many other types of walls.
There are some techniques that can be employed to give the concrete block wall a more appealing look. Concrete block walls can be colored or employ a split face, a technique that results in two blocks being manufactured as one unit and later divided, or split, into two separate units. This technique gives the block wall a rougher face, mimicking the natural look and feel of a quarried stone wall. For applications such as highway sound control walls, the design can be complex and artistic.
Decorative block walls have been popular in the past and have appeared in large homeowner associations, schools and other municipalities, along noisy roads, around some homes, and virtually any location where an aesthetic but durable application is desired.
As previously mentioned, there are some drawbacks to block wall. By design, they tend to be less decorative and more purpose built. They would not suffice for someone looking for an aesthetically pleasing wall application. While the plain surface can often be covered with veneered masonry, the decorative options are limited, at best.
A great substitute for a standard or split faced block wall is the StoneTree™ precast concrete wall forming system. StoneTree™ precast concrete fencing offers increased durability over block walls while also offering easier, faster installation as well as many more options for beautiful designs. Some of the textures available are different types of stone, rock, stucco, slate, and architectural designs and are included on both sides of the concrete fences.
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