Today, building blocks have become widespread in the field of construction. Their main advantage is high strength and durability. In addition, you can purchase such a product in any size, but today most often builders use material with dimensions of 20x20x40mm.
To obtain a building block, various materials can be used, as a result of which the manufactured product can have its own characteristic properties.
Adhesive for aerated concrete blocks, price and features of use are indicated in the article.
How to make a foundation from concrete blocks
Foundation blocks are distinguished by shape and design. They are:
- Solid;
- Void;
- Solid with cutout.
Solid-type structures are characterized by a completely filled space. They are filled with reinforced reinforcement or filled with concrete. These blocks can withstand significant loads and their strength, unlike other products, is the highest. Consequently, the weight of a solid foundation block is greater, depends on the dimensions of the structure and ranges from 300 kg to 2000 kg.
Solid blocks with special grooves allow you to lay all kinds of communications. They have cutouts, so the weight of FBS concrete blocks is much less than solid ones. This type of design reduces the time it takes to connect heating networks to a source of electricity, buildings to water supply or heat supply systems. The weight of each of these blocks reaches 500-700 kg.
Hollow-type blocks are produced with cavities, which during the construction process are filled with various materials, waterproofed or thermal insulation is applied.
The weight of hollow-type FBS blocks varies from 20 kg to 200 kg.
The weight of FBS foundation blocks is also affected by the material from which they are made (heavy concrete, silicate concrete or expanded clay concrete).
When choosing a material for arranging an underground foundation using prefabricated technology, the dimensions of the blocks are taken into account. Please note: the markings indicate dimensions (length*width*height) in decimeters, rounded up.
The most common sizes:
- width 300, 400, 500, 600 mm (3, 4, 5, 6 dm);
- length 780, 880 mm (8, 9 dm) for additional blocks, 1180, 2380 mm (12, 24 dm) for standard panels;
- height 280.580 mm (3.6 dm).
Less common are panels whose length is 280, 380, 480, 580, 1780 mm (3, 4, 5, 6, 18 dm) and height 380, 480 mm (4.5 dm). The size grid of concrete blocks for a strip foundation (FL) differs from the standard one, since the products have a trapezoidal cross-section due to the expanded base.
In addition to the panels of the listed dimensions, concrete blocks of 200x200x400 mm are produced. These are products of a separate FSB-4 standard, the weight of the blocks is 310 kg. They are actively used in private housing construction.
The table below shows the main characteristics of FSB panels of the most common dimensions, made of heavy concrete (this is indicated by the letter T in the marking).
Product brand | Dimensions (mm) | Concrete class | Product weight (kg) | ||
length | width | height | |||
FBS 9.3.6-T | 880 | 300 | 580 | 87,5 | 350 |
FBS 9.4.6-T | 880 | 400 | 580 | 87,5 | 470 |
FBS 9.5.6-T | 880 | 500 | 580 | 87,5 | 590 |
FBS 9.6.6-T | 880 | 600 | 580 | 87,5 | 700 |
FBS 12.4.3-T | 1180 | 400 | 280 | 87,5 | 310 |
FBS 12.5.3-T | 1180 | 500 | 280 | 87,5 | 380 |
FBS 12.6.3-T | 1180 | 600 | 280 | 87,5 | 460 |
FBS 12.4.6-T | 1180 | 400 | 580 | 87,5 | 640 |
FBS 12.5.6-T | 1180 | 500 | 580 | 87,5 | 790 |
FBS 12.6.6-T | 1180 | 600 | 580 | 87,5 | 960 |
FBS 24.3.6-T | 2380 | 300 | 580 | 87,5 | 970 |
FBS 24.3.6-T | 2380 | 400 | 580 | 87,5 | 1300 |
FBS 24.3.6-T | 2380 | 500 | 580 | 87,5 | 1630 |
FBS 24.3.6-T | 2380 | 600 | 580 | 87,5 | 1960 |
The weight of concrete blocks for the foundation depends on the density of the material: for example, if heavy concrete of class 75 or 100 is used for the manufacture of panels, the weight of the product with the same dimensions will differ less or more from that given in the table above.
More detailed tables that are used when calculating foundations include the density of the material, the cross-section of the reinforcement (for reinforced blocks), the volume of products and other characteristics.
When choosing between a monolithic and prefabricated foundation, you need to consider the pros and cons of a structure made from prefabricated elements. The use of concrete blocks for the foundation of a house instead of a monolith allows:
- spend a minimum of time on construction - there is no need to wait until the mortar hardens and gains strength, you can immediately begin building walls;
- reduce the amount of manual labor, since installation of formwork, assembly of reinforcement cage and preparation of large volumes of cement mortar are not required;
- carry out work in adverse weather conditions.
Concrete blocks are suitable for installing the underground foundation of buildings of any type and size on different types of soil. Products with high density are resistant to significant temperature changes and have high frost resistance. A well-installed foundation will last at least 100 years.
Using ready-made blocks also has a number of disadvantages:
- To carry out the work, special equipment is required, since the products are heavy;
- it is impossible to equip a prefabricated foundation on soils prone to heaving;
- the finished underground structure needs reliable waterproofing to protect it from groundwater and flood waters;
- the final cost of a prefabricated foundation is usually higher compared to a monolithic one.
The choice of foundation technology depends on the characteristics of the building, loads on the underground part, soil characteristics and other factors. A universal option is a strip foundation made of ready-made panels; it is used in the construction of private houses, multi-storey buildings, and buildings for various purposes. In private housing construction, blocks of the FBS-4 standard (200x200x400 mm) are also used to create column-type foundations.
A strip foundation made of concrete blocks is arranged in the form of a closed loop. The height and width of the tape depends on the designed loads on the underground foundation. The tape should be located under external walls and internal capital partitions to evenly distribute loads.
Work progress:
- On the prepared site, markings are made and a trench with gentle walls is dug for the strip foundation. The depth of the foundation depends on the characteristics of the soil and the depth of freezing.
- A cushion of washed sand is installed at the bottom of the pit. The height of the carefully compacted layer of sand is about 10 cm, the surface of the pillow should be leveled horizontally.
- When constructing massive buildings or on soil with high humidity, trapezoidal FL blocks are laid on top of the cushion, centering them along the axes of the trench;
- Laying FBS begins from the corners. The blocks are aligned along their axes, fastened together with mortar, which is placed on the top edge and ends. Installation is carried out according to the principle of brickwork. Before laying the upper tier, the loops are cut off from the blocks of the lower layer.
- The finished structure is waterproofed, after which the construction of walls can begin.
The construction of a columnar foundation from concrete blocks is carried out as follows:
- pits are prepared in such a way that support pillars are located at all angles, intersections of walls and partitions, at the base of doorways, at several points under long walls;
- a sand cushion is compacted at the bottom of the pits;
- the pillars are mounted from solid blocks with ligation of each row, the minimum cross-section of the columns is 400x400 mm;
- To provide rigidity to the base, a monolithic grillage is installed or the pillars are connected into a spatial structure using a steel channel, I-beam or beam attached to the heads of the pillars, welded from a 4x4 cm angle.
A prefabricated foundation for a private house, cottage, bathhouse, or outbuilding can be done with your own hands.
The production of fundamental concrete blocks is based on a concrete-based solution. Additional components are introduced into its composition, which give the finished blocks various functional characteristics. The following can be used as fillers:
- Expanded clay
- Gravel
- Crushed stone (hard rocks)
- Slag waste from metallurgy
For fundamental concrete blocks, the size of the fractions of additional materials is very important. They should not exceed 20 mm.
“Shrinkage” of concrete blocks is carried out on special vibropressing machines
As for concrete, the following are used in the production of standard foundation blocks:
- Autoclaved concrete
- Heavy concrete
The group of autoclaved concretes includes solutions based on gas silicates and aerated concrete. The main binding components in them are cement and lime. Heavy concrete is characterized by increased density.
If it is necessary to provide products with additional clear geometric shapes and increase the strength of finished blocks, the addition of reinforcing elements is used.
Due to its high strength and performance characteristics, this concrete building material, which is reinforced from the inside with a reinforcement frame, can be used for the construction of a columnar foundation, in combination with a strip foundation, for the construction of walls of low buildings, basements and cellars.
Concrete foundation blocks are characterized by the following advantages:
- good load-bearing capacity;
- high installation speed;
FBS blocks are designed for constructing strong and reliable foundations for various buildings, since they are capable of “holding” the highest loads
- reliability of the material, this is ensured due to the fact that the products are manufactured in the factory using special technology on modern equipment, in addition, they undergo strict laboratory control;
- high density of joining of elements, which is achieved thanks to the thoughtful design of products and the precise dimensions of concrete blocks;
- the elements are equipped with special mounting grooves for convenient installation;
- the versatility of the material makes it possible to construct the foundations of structures of any complexity;
- installation work can be carried out at any time of the year, since the material is not afraid of temperature fluctuations and high humidity;
- the high stress resistance of the material allows it to be used in the most unfavorable conditions, such as icy or acidic soils;
- After completing the installation of the blocks, you can immediately begin other construction work.
The disadvantages of the material include:
- high cost of products;
Due to the large weight of the blocks, installation work will require the use of special equipment
- low heat resistance;
- the large weight of the products, as a result of which installation work associated with laying the elements will require the use of special equipment;
- the joints between the parts will not be leak-tight.
Cement
Cement foundation blocks are used for the construction of various types of structures of single/multi-story buildings (plinths, foundations, and sometimes walls). In addition, they are used in industry in the construction of production facilities, columns, fences, fences.
The main disadvantage of the elements is the need to use special equipment to move the blocks. That is why blocks of 20x20x40 centimeters with a weight of up to 35 kilograms are most popular in private construction - they can be installed by yourself.
The main advantages of a concrete block:
- Stability of the quality of blocks and structures made from them
- Minimum service life of 50 years
- Elimination of errors during the installation process due to the evenness of the blocks
- High frost resistance, non-perception of sudden temperature changes
- There is no need to construct a sand cushion under the foundation blocks
Features of FBS:
- Not suitable for construction on heaving soils
- The need for additional waterproofing
- The appearance of cold bridges at seams
- Can be with or without reinforcement, solid or hollow
- Strength grade – from M75 to M200
- Frost resistance – from F50 to F200
- Thermal conductivity – within 1.1 W/m*C
- Quantity per square meter – 12.5, per cubic meter – about 62.5
- Weight – 28-35 kilograms
- Water absorption – about 6%
- Density – minimum 1500 kg/m3
- Exact dimensions – 188x190x390 millimeters
There is a large selection of blocks available in Moscow and the regions, so purchasing and delivering products to the site in the required quantity and on time is not difficult.
Installation features
The concrete block for the FBS foundation is a solid monolithic product made of reinforced concrete, having the shape of a parallelepiped. Among other types of blocks, the material has the highest strength and performance characteristics, thanks to which it can be used in the construction of foundations.
FBS blocks have a solid rectangular cross-section and loops that facilitate the process of transportation and installation
FBS is a reliable, stable and durable building material, which is characterized by increased resistance to environmental influences. The strength characteristics of the product are of particular importance, since the elements are the basis for creating the foundation of the building.
The material is manufactured exclusively in factory conditions, since the quality of each product must be strictly controlled using laboratory instruments in accordance with GOST. Foundation blocks can be made from the following materials:
- silicate concrete or expanded clay concrete with a density of at least 1800 kg/m³;
- lightweight high-strength concrete class B100;
- heavy high-strength concrete grade M50-M200.
Concrete is selected based on the operating conditions of the structure being built. This takes into account temperature changes, mechanical loads and humidity levels. Concrete grade M200 has maximum strength. For harsh operating conditions, you can use filler brand M150, and for standard conditions - M100.
Concrete of strength class from B7.5 to B15 is used as the main material for the manufacture of FBS blocks.
In addition to filler concrete, reinforcement made of A1 or A111 steel is used, which improves strength characteristics and reduces the effects of pressure and compression, and plasticizers, which increase the frost resistance of the material.
Currently, when constructing a foundation, a combined laying method using FBS elements is very popular. Thanks to this technology, the cost of construction is reduced, which does not have a negative impact on the strength and durability of the structure. When choosing the size of foundation FBS blocks, it should be taken into account that the future foundation must not only withstand the weight of the structures, but also distribute it evenly throughout the entire foundation.
It is the calculated load of the object on the foundation that determines what size blocks need to be selected
The size of the product determines the strength of the structure, the technological process of installing the elements, the time it takes to complete the “zero cycle” and the cost of the product. The dimensions of building blocks are determined based on the type of soil and its bearing capacity. It is also necessary to take into account the thickness of the walls and ceilings, the weight of the structure, the area and strength of the foundation.
The lower the soil stability, the larger the foundation blocks should be. For example, for clay surfaces you should choose the largest elements, and on coarse soils you can build foundations from small-sized products. To create the most dense styling, it is recommended to use products of different sizes.
FBS concrete blocks are part of the products that are produced at any concrete plant. Very often, products are manufactured without observing all the details and stages of the technological process. Mixed grades of concrete can be used as raw materials. Therefore, when choosing a high-quality and reliable material, you should choose companies that have proven themselves to be the best in the global construction market.
One of the largest enterprises in Russia for the production of building materials from concrete is the Plant of Industrial Construction Parts. The products are durable and of high quality, which is carried out in accordance with GOST requirements. The cost of foundation blocks starts from 1200 rubles/piece.
The Russian company specializes in the manufacture of concrete products. The product range includes more than 400 items, including wall foundation blocks. The price per piece of the product depends on its dimensions and averages 1,650 rubles.
Foundation concrete blocks from domestic manufacturers are the most reliable and practical solution in the progressive industry
Another popular domestic manufacturer is. It produces all types of concrete blocks, the price of which depends on the type of product and starts from 1150 rubles/piece.
The Alexandria expanded clay plant produces various types of concrete products. Small concrete blocks are in great demand, which can be used in the construction of load-bearing walls, fences and columns, or used as supporting elements in basements and semi-basements, and ground floors. The products are made in special shapes, due to which they have precise dimensions. The price of foundation blocks 200x200x400 mm starts from 55 rubles/piece.
Another reliable manufacturer is the Zlatoust plant, which produces a wide range of FBS, FBP, FVP, stairs, panels, lintels and concrete road slabs. The products are reasonably priced. The price of a foundation FBS block starts from 950 rubles/piece.
The cost of FBS foundation blocks starts from 1200 rubles/piece
The process of installing blocks under the foundation does not require special knowledge or special skills. To obtain a good result, it is important to strictly follow the sequence of actions, which are carried out in three stages.
The first stage is to calculate the number of elements required to build the foundation. To do this, the volume of the building is determined, the resulting value should be divided by the volume of one block. The second stage is to prepare the foundation. The blocks should be laid on a sand cushion 50-100 mm thick, previously leveled and compacted.
The final stage is the direct laying of FBS blocks using a lifting mechanism. Beacon blocks are pre-installed at corners, intersections and foundation lintels. A level is used to check the coincidence of the upper planes of the beacons, between which the cord should be pulled. The remaining elements of the first row are set according to it. According to the project, it is necessary to leave gaps between the blocks for the passage of utilities.
Even at the design stage, it is worth taking care of purchasing blocks with large lengths
The geometry of the entire foundation will depend on the correct installation of the first row of blocks. The accuracy of laying is controlled by a level. Structural elements are corrected with a crowbar. The next row is built according to the principle of brickwork. A layer of cement mortar is provided between the rows, which is compacted with a bayonet shovel. The height of the foundation is usually 5 rows of products.
When constructing small structures on a summer cottage, you can use used foundation blocks measuring 400x600x200 mm. And the price per piece of the product will be only 300 rubles.
The arrangement of the foundation includes a set of measures, the correct implementation of which determines the speed and quality of laying FSB blocks
The use of FBS blocks in the construction of foundations and other objects can significantly speed up the process. The correct choice of product size and adherence to the installation sequence will be the key to creating a strong, reliable and durable structure.
Blocks for prefabricated foundations are made from heavy and medium concrete. In the standard version, these are rectangular-shaped products, but for laying the bottom row of a strip foundation (mainly on wet soils), cushion-type panels can be used - trapezoidal, with an increased support area.
Mortgage lugs protrude from the top edge of the block for movement using a crane. The metal hinges are cut off after installing the panel in place.
Products are classified by configuration, presence of reinforcement, and type of concrete. Manufacturers produce:
- FBS – solid panels without reinforcement, suitable for arranging the foundations of high-rise buildings and building basements;
- FBP - hollow concrete blocks for the foundation, they serve as permanent formwork during the construction of walls of exploited basements, for the construction of industrial facilities (during the installation of structures, the voids are filled with mortar, having previously installed reinforcement);
- F – reinforced concrete (with reinforcement) solid concrete blocks for the foundation;
- FL – foundation pads intended for installation of strip-type foundations;
- BF – high-strength blocks made of heavy concrete, designed for increased loads;
- FBV are solid blocks that have a longitudinal recess for laying communications and installing jumpers.
When choosing elements for assembling the foundation, you should pay attention to the markings of the material. It contains the following information: block type, dimensions, type of concrete.
The density of concrete depends on the brand of cement, type of filler, etc. This characteristic directly affects the weight of the product and its compressive strength. Foundation blocks are made of three types of concrete:
- T – heavy. The product is characterized by maximum density and the ability to withstand high loads and frost resistance.
- C – silicate. It has medium density and appropriate performance characteristics.
- P – porous. The use of expanded clay filler makes it possible to obtain blocks with relatively low weight. They are less durable, but cheaper and require less investment in transportation.
A foundation block is a concrete product that has reached the maximum level of strength in a special form. Foundation blocks are produced serially, in accordance with GOST standards 13579-78. Such foundation blocks are used for the construction of various types of foundations, for example, foundation strip or piles (pillars).
Sand-cement
According to GOST 6133-99, sand cement with dimensions 20x20x40 mm can have the following characteristics:
- weight – 14-18 kg;
- thermal conductivity – 0.4-0.55 W (m*C);
- strength – M-35;
- frost resistance – F-25;
- stone density – 940-1100 kg/m3.
Sand-cement blocks are produced using a sand-concrete mixture using the vibrocompression method. Thanks to this manufacturing technology, it is possible to obtain high compressive strength and a long service life. In addition, during production it is possible to obtain ideal geometric dimensions and compliance of practical data with the declared ones. This way, you can get a product with ideal geometry and characteristics.
Aerated concrete blocks advantages and disadvantages, as well as application features are indicated in the article.
Sand-cement stone can be of two types: solid and hollow. The number of cavities can be 2.4, 7 and 8. Hollow products are characterized by low strength, but they allow for excellent thermal protection, are noise-proof and have less weight.
Sand-cement blocks 20x20x40 mm are used in the construction of load-bearing walls, support columns, foundations, and basement floors. When laying a wall, you can achieve a thickness of half a block, single-row, one-and-a-half or double thickness. The high strength of the material and excellent thermal insulation qualities make it possible to use hollow stone when laying external walls. A block made from cement and sand can withstand aggressive environmental influences, which is why it is actively used in industrial construction.
You can read about what a hollow-core floor slab is in our article.
From this article you can find out what is better than aerated concrete, aerated silicate, and foam concrete.
In the video - a foundation made of 20x20x40 blocks with your own hands:
The advantages of this material include:
- ease of masonry;
- ease of plastering and painting of stone;
- reasonable cost;
- durability and long service life;
- environmental friendliness;
- excellent sound insulation and thermal insulation of the walls.
If you decide to buy this material, then it costs from 25 to 65 rubles per piece.
Natural sand for construction work is medium in size, as well as the features of its use are indicated in the article.
You can find out what the sand fineness module looks like according to GOST 8736 93 from the article.
In this article you can see a photo of quarry sand: https://resforbuild.ru/sypuchie-materialy/pesok/karernyj/xarakteristiki.html
Advantages and disadvantages of foundation reinforced concrete blocks
- Width 200 mm
- Height 200 mm
- Length 400 mm
Moreover, the weight of one block is only 32 kg. Thus, a foundation block 200x200x400 is the optimal material when, for certain reasons, it is impossible to use heavy construction equipment on site.
It doesn't look like the biggest block, weighs up to 30 kg
- There is no need to hire additional labor and rent special equipment, which, accordingly, reduces the cost of construction.
- Unlike arranging monolithic foundations, there is no need to first assemble and then dismantle the formwork for the foundation.
- The speed of foundation construction is several times higher than when pouring a conventional one.
- Concrete block foundations can be erected at any time of the year
- Immediately after laying the foundation blocks, you can begin to build the walls of the building.
Thus, production by vibration pressing provides products with a decent level of strength, water permeability and resistance to the effects of temperature changes and precipitation.
More massive blocks require additional equipment
Each block has its own marking, which indicates the length, width and height of the product in decimeters. These parameters must strictly comply with the requirements of GOST 13579-78. If the letter “T” appears next to the numerical value, this indicates that heavy concrete was used in the manufacture of the block, the letter “P” indicates expanded clay concrete, and “C” indicates dense silicate concrete.
FBS foundation blocks have their own marking, which is a specific set of letters and numbers
According to GOST, the FBS block is presented in 15 standard sizes, where an important dimensional characteristic is the width of the products, which is 300-600 mm. According to the length of the FBS, the assortment is divided into three standard sizes with values of 880, 1180 and 2380 mm. The height of the products is 580 mm. Only a block with a length of 1180 mm has a product height of 280 mm. The smallest element has dimensions of 880x300x580, and the largest foundation block FBS 24.6.6 has dimensions of 2380x600x580 mm.
Designation | Width, mm | Height, mm | Length, mm | Element weight, kg |
FBS.24.6.6 | 600 | 580 | 2380 | 1960 |
FBS.24.5.6 | 500 | 580 | 2380 | 1630 |
FBS.24.4.6 | 400 | 580 | 2380 | 1300 |
FBS.24.3.6 | 300 | 580 | 2380 | 970 |
FBS.12.6.6 | 600 | 580 | 1180 | 960 |
FBS.12.5.6 | 500 | 580 | 1180 | 790 |
FBS.12.4.6 | 400 | 580 | 1180 | 640 |
FBS.12.3.6 | 300 | 580 | 1180 | 460 |
FBS.12.6.3 | 600 | 280 | 1180 | 460 |
FBS.12.5.3 | 500 | 280 | 1180 | 390 |
FBS.12.4.3 | 400 | 280 | 1180 | 310 |
FBS.9.6.6 | 600 | 580 | 880 | 700 |
FBS.9.5.6 | 500 | 580 | 880 | 590 |
FBS.9.4.6 | 400 | 580 | 880 | 470 |
FBS.9.3.6 | 300 | 580 | 880 | 350 |
Dimensions of FBS blocks according to the assortment
When constructing foundations, different sizes of foundation blocks can be used, and the price per piece of the product will depend on its dimensions. To accurately determine the size of the blocks and their number, you should scan the base. On a special drawing, all products are conventionally laid out along the length and height of the basement wall of the building. Here you should take into account the dressing between the blocks, which is at least 25 cm.
The width of the product is selected based on the thickness of the building walls. In this case, minor overhangs of above-ground structures are allowed. If the walls are built of brick, then the protrusion should be no more than 40 mm on each side. Here you can use FBS with a width of 600 mm for walls of 640 mm and a size of 500 for structures of 510 mm.
The length of the foundation block must be determined by the development, where elements of different sizes are placed so that they lie flat without forming significant protrusions.
FBS foundations have a much higher construction speed with a significant reduction in labor costs
When constructing foundations and erecting walls, products with a height of 580 mm are used. Blocks with a value of 280 mm are used as additional elements when it is necessary to make a hole in the base for ventilation, input or output of networks.
The weight of FBS blocks is an important value, knowing which, you can decide on the special equipment necessary for laying the products, as well as the transport that will be used when delivering the blocks to the construction site.
FBS blocks, the dimensions and weight of which are interrelated, are made of heavy concrete with high density. Each product is marked, the following symbol is adopted:
- Abbreviation: FBS;
- Dimensions: the first number is length, the second number is width, and the third number is height;
- Material: “T” - heavy concrete, “C” - silicate, etc.
The height of each block is the same. It is 58 cm. But the weight of the FBS blocks depends on the length and width of the products. A reinforced concrete block 88 cm long and 30 to 60 cm wide will weigh 350-700 kg. These products include FBS 9-3-6t, FBS 9-4-6t, FBS 9-5-6t, and FBS 9-6-6t.
FBS with dimensions 238x30x60cm, 238x40x60cm, 238x50x60cm and 238x60x60cm weigh 950-2000 kilograms.
The state standard regulating the production of reinforced concrete products specifies the dimensions and weight of FBS blocks. You can familiarize yourself in detail with this document, which specifies the technical requirements for the manufacture of blocks from silicate and heavy concrete with a density of at least 1800 kg/m3.
The resulting products differ from each other in weight and overall characteristics. There are three main types:
- FBS is a solid foundation block, i.e. full-bodied. The shape is similar to a brick with grooves that provide a monolithic connection of the elements to each other. The concrete is not reinforced;
- FBV – with cutouts for communications;
- FBP – partially hollow.
The weight of the FBS block is greater than that of other types. Accordingly, the load-bearing capacity is higher. The products are equipped with metal loops for carrying.
GOST for manufacturing – 13579-78. Main technical characteristics of concrete:
- density – minimum 1800 kilograms per cubic meter;
- strength class - minimum B 7.5.
FBS equipped with cargo loops
How the quality of expanded clay concrete block depends on its weight
As can be seen from the table, the weight of the blocks depends on many factors, the main one of which is the brand in terms of strength, and also, an important role is played by the manufacturer himself, who does not always adhere to production technology, which significantly affects the weight of the block.
And so, now we know what weight a high-quality expanded clay concrete block should have, but often unscrupulous manufacturers, in order to reduce the cost of their products, replace part of the expanded clay with slag or crushed stone screenings during the manufacturing process. This significantly makes the finished product heavier.
What are the dangers of using “heavy” expanded clay concrete blocks?
- The use of such blocks leads to a significant weighting of the entire structure as a whole, and requires a more serious approach to the calculation of the foundation.
- As a rule, these additives are significantly inferior to expanded clay in thermal conductivity, which will worsen the performance of both the block and the structure itself as a whole.
- The cost of laying expanded clay concrete blocks of greater weight will be correspondingly higher.
- The brand of such blocks is usually lower than declared, which affects their strength.
From all of the above, we can conclude that the weight of a 400x200x200mm expanded clay concrete block affects many of its main characteristics. Therefore, you need to be very careful when purchasing, and not run to the first manufacturer you come across that offers an attractive price.
Why is it necessary to know the mass of FBS blocks?
The state standard GOST 13579-78 standardizes not only the strength characteristics of reinforced concrete products, but also establishes overall dimensions and weight. Why do you need to know how much a foundation block weighs? This is necessary to control the quality of products. In construction conditions at a site, it is impossible to determine the density of concrete, and weight is precisely the indicator that indicates this value.
Knowing how much an FBS block weighs and how many such blocks will be needed to build a foundation or for another construction purpose, you can choose the right special equipment for transporting, loading and unloading structures, and laying them. Such blocks are supplied in 10 and 20 ton equipment.
It is important to take into account downtime and unforeseen situations during the delivery of cargo to the site.
The enormous weight of FBS blocks is their disadvantage, but it plays an important role in the construction process, since it affects the quality and strength of the foundation, determines the reliability of the structure and ensures a long service life.
Advantages of the standard size 20x20x40 mm
Building concrete blocks are becoming more and more popular among craftsmen every day, as they provide maximum advantages: they are easy to use, allow you to create durable structures, guarantee stable characteristics, and durability.
Standard size blocks of 20x20x40 centimeters are most in demand due to their optimal dimensions. On the one hand, the construction process goes faster due to the evenness and correctness of the geometric dimensions, the ability to carry out the work independently (the weight of the blocks is not very large and there is no need to bring in lifting equipment). Thanks to the quality of the products, savings are achieved on masonry mortar and finishing materials.
Projects for creating foundations and walls from blocks can be easily calculated by accurately determining the consumption of building material.
The main advantages of blocks measuring 20x20x40 centimeters:
- Dimensional accuracy, smooth laying
- No need to use special equipment
- No need to install formwork
- Simple and quick foundation laying - saving time and effort on construction
- The ability to carry out work at any time of the year without fear of block deformation and crack propagation
Foundation blocks measuring 20x20x40 centimeters are the most optimal and cost-effective option for creating strong and durable foundations, basement/basement floors and other structures. Subject to compliance with masonry technology, they provide reliability and the best characteristics of the structure and building.
Types of blocks according to GOST: FBS, FBP, FBV, FL and BF
For the construction of a technical underground, basement walls, installation of columnar and strip foundations, construction of walls of low structures, unheated buildings and other structures operating under systematic exposure to temperatures from 50 to -70 degrees, concrete blocks can be used, which, based on GOST 13579-78, are three types: FBS, FBV and FBP. Products are made from silicate, heavy concrete or expanded clay concrete. Their density should not be less than 1800 kg/m³.
FBP - blocks with one- or two-sided voids for laying communications
According to the transcript, FBS is a foundation wall block with a maximum safety margin. When manufacturing monolithic small elements, structural reinforcement is not used. Metal is used only for the manufacture of hinges for installation. In the production of dimensional blocks, longitudinal reinforcement rods are necessarily used, which increases the weight of the FBS.
FBV blocks, unlike the previous type, have a longitudinal section in the cavity of the product. It is intended for installation of engineering communications. The manufacturing process of such products is similar to the manufacturing method of the previous version. Here, concrete of at least grade M100 is used. However, in the construction of FBV blocks are used extremely rarely, therefore they are manufactured mainly to individual orders. Products are available in lengths of 880 mm, heights of 580 mm and widths of 400, 500 and 600 mm.
Foundation blocks do not have reinforcement with the exception of embedded mounting loops
FBP blocks are hollow lightweight concrete products that have open square holes in the lower part of the element. Concrete grade M150 is used for production. Products are produced in lengths of 2380 mm. Other linear dimensions of foundation blocks and prices for products are in a wide range. FBP blocks are used to create foundations for industrial equipment or to construct internal basement walls.
As a base for a columnar or strip foundation, trapezoidal-shaped products are used, which are marked FL. The parameters and dimensions of foundation pads are regulated by GOST 13580-85. The width of the products varies between 600-3200 mm. The height of the elements can be 300 or 500 mm. The last value corresponds to products with a width of 2000 mm.
For the construction of internal and external walls of structures of agricultural and industrial enterprises, reinforced concrete strip blocks BF made of heavy concrete are used, which are regulated by GOST 28737-90. All elements are divided into six varieties, which differ in their cross-sectional sizes.
Installation of a strip foundation made of trapezoidal blocks, which are marked as FL
Concrete block foundation: pros and cons
Considering the above, it is clear that the use of fundamental blocks is beneficial primarily when constructing small private buildings. This technique significantly reduces material costs and time resources spent on construction. The work takes much less time, given the use of high-quality pre-finished materials.
This is what an approximate diagram of a shallow strip foundation looks like
The design of a foundation made of blocks as a whole is no different from a monolithic one
The diagram shows the laying of a strip foundation, which is carried out in several stages:
- First you need to dig a trench. Its level should be 20 cm below the soil freezing level.
- A mixture of gravel and sand is poured for the foundation (pillow layer 20/30 cm)
- Rows of foundation blocks are placed on the cushion.
- When laying, the seams are tied, using reinforced steel rods if necessary.
- The rows are installed until the height of the basement floor is reached (in accordance with the project).
- Construct a moisture-proof covering from 2 layers of waterproofing material
- A foundation blind area is installed along the perimeter of the base.
Concrete block 200x200x400 is produced in the shape of a rectangle. Its production uses heavy concrete mortar (mainly class B7.5).
Modern technologies guarantee the quality of industrially produced fundamental concrete blocks. Technological processes and product geometry comply with GOST No. 6133-84 (Technical conditions).
Strip foundation made of blocks for a wooden house
GOST No. 13579-78 indicates the main parameters of products:
- Material strength -150 kg/cm²
- Frost resistance indicator – 15 cycles
- Thermal conductivity index – 1.15 W/m∙K
- Weight – 31.2/31.7 kg.
Advantages and limitations of use
A block foundation is a prefabricated analogue of a monolithic one. Any foundation, with the exception of a pile foundation, can either be filled completely or made up of separate fragments. Advantages of a block base:
- high speed of construction - no need to wait for the concrete to mature at each stage;
- efficiency. Savings are achieved not only due to the absence of auxiliary materials (formwork, etc.), but also due to the FB themselves: if design calculations allow, the slab foundation can be made not continuous, but individual elements can be laid with a certain step.
The bearing capacity of such a foundation is high, but it is not stable enough on poor soil - heaving, subject to horizontal and vertical movements. If the monolithic tape is plastic and compensates well for shrinkage, then the prefabricated tape under the same conditions can crack at the seams. In wetlands and peatlands, preference is generally given to piles.
The disadvantages also include the large weight of the foundation blocks. For example, FBS 24 4 6 weighs 1.3 tons. Installation cannot be done without heavy equipment. For private suburban development they choose the so-called. hand-molded products, FBS 2-2-4 - their weight is about 30 kilograms, and their volume is equal to seven bricks. Such material can be handled manually. Prefabricated block tape
There is only one limitation for the use of small-sized foundation blocks - the composition of the soil. The soil must be slightly heaving. Otherwise, the products can be used on any other soils and in any climatic zones.
Most often, concrete blocks 20x20x40 are used for the foundation of houses made of wood, foam blocks, and low-rise cottages. Of these they perform:
- Strip and column foundations
- Underground garages;
- Underground spaces and basement walls
- Basement floors
Foundation blocks are used as supports for columnar foundations for light structures.
In addition, this material is excellent for the construction of walls and between wall partitions of technical buildings, fences and road restrictions.
Concrete blocks
Such products are among the most capricious; they are very difficult to store and transport. They are used in the construction of vertical fencing structures. Thanks to this approach, it is possible to reduce the cost and speed up all construction work.
According to GOST 6133-84, concrete blocks 20x20x40 mm have the following characteristics:
- The weight of the product can reach 30-35 kg.
- Type – solid and hollow. The first option is characterized by use only for the construction of a foundation for a house or a basement. Hollow-core materials are in demand in the construction of walls, lintels and partitions.
- The grade of the finished product can reach M25 - light, and also reach M500 - heavy.
The following components are used in the manufacture of concrete blocks:
- good quality Portland cement,
- coarse sand,
- stone chips.
In rare cases, the composition may contain various additives that impart plasticity and resistance to atmospheric conditions. The cost of these products can reach 25-45 rubles per piece. You can read about the size of a reinforced concrete slab in the article.
What is the weight of an aerated concrete block of 1 m-3 is indicated in this article.
In the video - building blocks 20x20x40:
Classification
In order for buyers to be able to immediately navigate the quality characteristics of concrete foundation blocks and their purpose, manufacturers use a special classification that determines the weight and dimensions of the product, and the place where it is used. The following types of blocks are distinguished:
- F – blocks for glass-type foundations, used for the construction of columns.
- FL – blocks that are used as a cushion when constructing strip foundations.
- FBS - used in the construction of zero cycles, basements and subfloors.
- BF – tape type products. Used in the construction of external and internal walls
- FR - blocks of heavy concrete for three-hinged frames.
- FBP – hollow concrete blocks
Use on unstable soils
The use of foundation concrete blocks is possible on any type of soil. However, if we are talking about unstable soil, such as heaving, swampy, technogenic, peat, then when arranging a foundation of concrete blocks, you should follow some recommendations. So, the blocks are immersed in the ground below its freezing point. They are equipped with a suspended grillage. At the request of the developer, it can be made of wood, metal or reinforced concrete.
Often this construction technique is used in the construction of frame and wooden buildings.