Summary: Learn how to build a partition wall with concrete blocks, insert control joints and cut concrete blocks.
Concrete block walls need the same concrete footings and mortar mixes as ordinary brickwork. The blocks are made in various different sizes, enabling you to construct a wall of any thickness, in a simple stretcher bond.
When building with concrete blocks, do not wet them before use as they can shrink when they dry causing the mortar joints to crack.
Control joints will need to be used in walls that are 6m (19ft 6in) in length or more. You will need to use a vertical control joint, which will allow for expansion in the wall.
In a situation where you need to insert a control joint in a partition wall, the best position to place it is along the edge of a door opening.
Building a partition wall is another common DIY challenge, which can seem a lot harder and complicated than it really is. Concrete blocks are a practical alternative to the non-load bearing partitions that are sometimes used. You need to plan ahead in terms of where to put the door (if you want one), and how big it's going to be.
If you are going to fit a door into the partition wall, then you need to allow space for the wooden doorframe and lining, as well as the pre-cast lintel to support the masonry above the opening. The space above the lintel needs to be filled with concrete coursing bricks.
A final useful tip when working with concrete blocks is how to cut them correctly.
Spread mortar on the floor along the string line and onto the block, and position the block.
On reaching the ceiling whole blocks may not fit and will have to be filled in with cut blocks or bricks.
Author: C J Mills Google+
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