Household Item Reviewer
06-28-2005, 12:31 AM
Concrete block can be used to build attractive walls at a much lower cost than brick.
Steps:
1. Use solid blocks for the sturdiest construction. This type is made of foamed concrete or with lightweight aggregate.
2. Check out hollow blocks for garden walls and other areas that don't require a heavy wall.
3. Construct a wall that will be stuccoed or covered with plaster with plain structural blocks.
4. Choose facing blocks in a wide range of colors and textures. These blocks are decorative on one face and one end.
5. Build a trellis or semi-private wall with screen blocks, which have fancy cutouts.
6. Make sure that the blocks you choose are designed for load bearing if that is their purpose.
Tips:
Standard blocks are said to be 16 x 8 x 8. However, they actually measure 15 5/8 inches by 7 5/8 inches by 7 5/8 inches to allow for mortar between the blocks.
Warnings:
Store concrete blocks in a dry, flat location out of the weather. Remember that they chip easily, so don't stack them where they are at risk of toppling.
Steps:
1. Use solid blocks for the sturdiest construction. This type is made of foamed concrete or with lightweight aggregate.
2. Check out hollow blocks for garden walls and other areas that don't require a heavy wall.
3. Construct a wall that will be stuccoed or covered with plaster with plain structural blocks.
4. Choose facing blocks in a wide range of colors and textures. These blocks are decorative on one face and one end.
5. Build a trellis or semi-private wall with screen blocks, which have fancy cutouts.
6. Make sure that the blocks you choose are designed for load bearing if that is their purpose.
Tips:
Standard blocks are said to be 16 x 8 x 8. However, they actually measure 15 5/8 inches by 7 5/8 inches by 7 5/8 inches to allow for mortar between the blocks.
Warnings:
Store concrete blocks in a dry, flat location out of the weather. Remember that they chip easily, so don't stack them where they are at risk of toppling.