Different Types of Hollow Blocks in Nepal

What are Hollow Blocks

The hollow block is also known as a hollow cement block or hollow concrete block  or concrete masonry unit, that can be used to construct both interior and exterior walls. Because of its large dimensions, the hollow concrete block saves time while constructing walls. The Hollow Block plays an essential role in the construction sector because of its load-carrying capacity.

Types of hollow blocks

  1. Concrete Stretcher Block

To link the masonry corners, concrete stretcher blocks are employed.

Stretcher blocks are concrete hollow blocks that are commonly used in construction.

They’re placed with their length parallel to the wall’s face.

  1. Concrete Corner Blocks

At the ends or corners of masonry, corner blocks are employed. The ends, which might be window or door openings, are placed so that their plane end is visible from the outside and the other end is locked with the stretcher block.

  1. Concrete Pillar Blocks

Double corner block is another name for pillar block. When two ends of a corner are visible, these are usually used. These blocks are commonly used for piers and pillars.

  1. Jamb Concrete Blocks

When there is an intricate window opening in the wall, jamb blocks are employed.

Stretcher and corner blocks are attached to them. Jamb blocks are very important for providing space for the window casing parts when installing double hung windows.

  1. Partition Concrete Block

Concrete partition blocks are commonly used to construct partition walls.

Partition blocks are taller than they are wide. In the case of partition blocks, the hollow part is divided into two to three components.

  1. Lintel Block

The purpose of a lintel block or beam block is to provide a beam or lintel beam.

Lintel beams are typically installed on the upper portion of doors and windows to support the load from above. As illustrated in the illustration, concrete lintel blocks have a deep groove running the length of the block. After the blocks are in place, the groove is filled with concrete and reinforced.

  1. Bullnose Concrete Block

Bullnose blocks are comparable to corner blocks. Their functions are similar, however bullnose bricks are favored when we desire rounded edges at corners.

Classification of Concrete Hollow Blocks

Concrete Hollow Blocks are classified into three categories.

  1. Grade A: They are used for load bearing walls and possess a minimum density of 1500 kg/m3
  2. Grade B: They are also used for load bearing walls and have density below than 1500 kg/m3
  3. Grade C: They are used for non-load bearing walls and have a density of more than 1000 kg/m3