However, later on, these were used to build low-cost houses, warehouses and office buildings as the builders found these handy and cost-effective to use. It is only recently that these concrete blocks have found their way into the construction of residential spaces too.
There are several varieties of concrete blocks such as hollow concrete blocks, solid blocks and porous concrete blocks.
Concrete blocks are easy to handle, strong and serve as a good alternative to earth bricks that are sometimes not cured well or made from substandard material.
They are said to offer resistance to termites and withstand earthquake shocks better. They are also more fire resistant.
They have a better thermal resistance and the homes could be made soundproof if the doors and windows are well designed.
They can stand cold temperatures better and are better equipped to withstand repeated rains.
Some builders add bricks to the construction so that a drab look of a concrete surface is overcome.
A distinct advantage is the concrete bricks could be cast in situ that ensures flexibility as well as little transport costs. However, proper fabrication tools should be used to ensure quality of bricks at site. Like any building material proper handling and cementing methods should be deployed to get the maximum advantage of concrete blocks during construction.
Construction is much faster as fewer concrete blocks are needed as compared to earthen bricks.
The market for concrete blocks is increasing rapidly especially in those places where good quality bricks are not available.
Even the manufactures of concrete blocks have a good profit with a modest investment, provided it adheres to standard procedures and good quality inputs without compromising on quality or cut corners to save costs.
The basic material is cement, both fine and coarse grained.
Very little water is used but it needs good compaction through mechanisation and vibration to achieve a good quality product.
Concrete blocks can be faced with stone or ceramic pieces to enhance the aesthetics. Another common type is hollow concrete blocks.
These are made with a richer mix, but offer a number of advantages, such as lighter weight, easier handling and facility for conduiting or reinforcement through the hollows.
However, load-bearing capacity has to be taken care of while using such hollow bricks.