Benefits and Uses of Interlocking Concrete Blocks

Slotting easily together without the need for mortar, interlocking concrete blocks are a straightforward, durable option ideal for temporary builds where time is of the essence and big costs need to be avoided. In this handy guide, we’ll explore what interlocking concrete blocks are, what they’re used for, and their benefits.

What are interlocking concrete blocks?

Interlocking concrete blocks are pre-cast with projections and depressions that allow them to fit neatly into the concrete block directly above, forming an interlocking design. This allows for easy, convenient alignment both horizontally and vertically, and they can be laid dry, without the need for special masonry skills or any mortar. To reinforce their strength, mortar can be added if desired, or steel rods.

What are interlocking concrete blocks used for?

As an easy-fit option, interlocking concrete blocks are most commonly used for the construction of temporary or emergency buildings, walls and other structures. This is because they are easy and quick to install, and require minimal materials and minimal specialist labour.

Interlocking concrete blocks can be found in both commercial and domestic settings – the main uses for interlocking concrete blocks include:

• Barricades – used most commonly for road safety purposes, and to manage the comings and goings of people and motorists

• Security/retaining walls – a quick way to create security and containment walls to protect a site

• Flood defence – used to protect coastal regions against flooding, and sometimes need to be installed quickly – which interlocking systems allow for  

• Fire break walls – concrete has low flammability, making it ideal for a fire break wall

• Counterweights – used on cranes and other construction equipment to provide balance to a piece of mechanism or vehicle

• Silage clamps – silage needs to be contained with no leaks, and that robust interlocking system of pre-cast concrete blocks can offer this

• Cofferdams – temporary builds used in areas that are submerged by water, for example bridges. The watertight nature of interlocking blocks makes them ideal for construction of cofferdams

Whatever you wish to use them for, it’s important to ensure you have completed the appropriate structural checks of your site beforehand.

What are the benefits of interlocking concrete blocks?

• Easily lifted into place using standard lifting equipment
• Straightforward installation with minimal materials and effort required. This is due to the interlocking system that means blocks simply slot together
• Unlikely to become displaced, thanks to the interlocking design
• Compared to timber, they are also resistant to warping, insects and fire-damage.  
• No mortar is needed, saving you water, money on materials and also time waiting for the mortar to dry
• Saves construction time for projects experiencing time-pressure
• No need to hire any highly skilled masons, saving on labour costs
• Structurally stable and durable – there is also opportunity to insert steel reinforcements for further strength and stability   

If you’re searching for bespoke-made interlocking blocks for concrete construction including self-builds, look no further than Neil Sullivan & Sons. We supply a wide range of standard sizes, though we can also custom-make any blocks to your specific measurements. We provide this fast, simple solution to customers across Essex and beyond – simply contact us today for further details.