What Is the Common Masonry Unit Used in the Philippines
The common masonry unit used in the Philippines is the Concrete Hollow Block (CHB).
CHB is widely used in masonry construction in the country due to its ability to strengthen and provide durability to buildings.
Walls built with CHB offer advantages such as durability, strength, non-combustibility, fire resistance, affordability, and weather resistance.
The two common types of CHB in the Philippines are CHB 6″ and CHB 4″.
CHB laying involves using concrete hollow blocks, mortar, and rebar.
The bonding of CHB to form walls is crucial for the stability of a building, and different bonding patterns such as Running Bond, American Bond, Flemish Bond, English Bond, and Stack Bond determine the strength and ability of the walls to withstand different conditions.
It is important to use quality materials and work with a single supplier or manufacturer for consistent sizes.
Did You Know?
1. The common masonry unit used in the Philippines is known as a “hollow block,” which is an essential building material made from Portland cement and aggregates.
2. Hollow blocks are widely popular in the Philippines due to their strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. They are commonly used in constructing walls, fences, and buildings across the country.
3. The standard size of a hollow block in the Philippines is 8 inches in height, 16 inches in length, and 4 inches in width. However, variations in dimensions are also available to meet specific construction requirements.
4. While hollow blocks are prevalent in the Philippines, the country also uses other masonry units such as concrete bricks, clay bricks, and aerated concrete blocks for construction purposes.
5. The use of hollow blocks in the Philippines dates back to the early 20th century. Since then, it has become an indispensable component of the country’s construction industry, playing a significant role in the growth and development of infrastructure throughout the archipelago.
Concrete Hollow Blocks: Common Masonry Unit In The Philippines
Concrete hollow blocks (CHB), also known as concrete masonry units (CMU), are extensively utilized in construction projects across the Philippines. Comprising cement, aggregates, and water, these prefabricated building materials are readily available throughout the country thanks to local manufacturers.
The popularity of CHB stems from its multitude of benefits. Strength and durability are inherent characteristics of these blocks, making them an obvious choice for residential and commercial structures. Additionally, the hollow design of CHB enables the incorporation of reinforcements like steel bars or rebars, greatly enhancing their structural integrity.
Advantages of CHB in Construction:
- Provides strength and durability to buildings
- Hollow design allows for reinforcement, improving structural integrity
Note: The use of CHB in construction is testament to its numerous advantages and its status as the most commonly used masonry unit in the Philippines.
Advantages Of Walls Built With Concrete Hollow Blocks (CHB)
Walls constructed with CHB (Concrete Hollow Blocks) offer a range of advantages that contribute to their popularity in the Philippines:
- Durability: CHB walls are known for their long-lasting nature and can withstand various weather conditions, including typhoons and earthquakes.
- Strength: CHB blocks have a compressive strength that allows them to bear heavy loads, making them suitable for load-bearing walls.
- Fire Resistance: CHB walls are non-combustible and provide fire resistance, ensuring the safety of occupants in case of fire.
- Affordability: Locally produced CHB blocks are relatively inexpensive compared to other building materials, making them a cost-effective choice for construction projects.
- Standard Sizes: The availability of CHB in standard sizes helps streamline the construction process, saving time and labor costs.
“CHB walls offer durability, strength, fire resistance, affordability, and the convenience of standard sizes, making them a popular choice for construction in the Philippines.“
Installation Challenges And Considerations For CHB In Masonry Construction
While CHB (Concrete Hollow Blocks) offer numerous benefits, their installation can present challenges in masonry construction. The process of laying CHB involves three main components: the blocks themselves, mortar, and rebar. This installation can be complex and labor-intensive, requiring skilled workers with knowledge of proper masonry techniques.
One of the primary considerations in CHB installation is the bonding of the blocks. The bonding of CHB is essential for the stability and strength of the walls. Different bonding patterns and arrangements, such as Running Bond, American Bond, Flemish Bond, English Bond, and Stack Bond, determine the performance of the walls in various conditions.
Another consideration is the quality of materials used. It is crucial to source CHB from a single supplier or manufacturer to maintain consistency in sizes and quality. Inconsistent sizes of CHB can lead to uneven walls and difficulties in construction. Therefore, working closely with a reputable supplier is important to ensure the successful execution of masonry projects using CHB.
Types Of Concrete Hollow Blocks In The Philippines
In the Philippines, two common types of CHB (Concrete Hollow Blocks) are widely used in masonry construction: CHB 6″ and CHB 4″. The numbers indicate the nominal thickness of the blocks, with CHB 6″ having a nominal thickness of 6 inches and CHB 4″ having a nominal thickness of 4 inches.
The choice between these two types of CHB depends on the specific requirements of the project. CHB 6″ is generally used for load-bearing walls and larger structures, as it offers greater strength and stability. On the other hand, CHB 4″ is commonly used for non-load-bearing walls, interior partitions, and smaller structures where weight and space considerations are important.
Both types of CHB can be combined in a single construction project to fulfill different needs and optimize the overall performance of the building. However, it is crucial to consult with architects and engineers to determine the appropriate CHB type for each specific application.
- CHB 6″ is suitable for load-bearing walls and larger structures.
- CHB 4″ is ideal for non-load-bearing walls, interior partitions, and smaller structures.
- Consulting with architects and engineers is essential to determine the appropriate CHB type for each specific application.
“Both types of CHB can be combined in a single construction project to fulfill different needs and optimize the overall performance of the building.“
Bonding Patterns: Crucial Element In CHB Wall Construction
Bonding patterns are essential in the construction of CHB walls. They determine the arrangement of blocks in each course and impact the overall strength and stability of the walls.
-
Running Bond is the most commonly used pattern in the Philippines. It involves offsetting stretchers by half per course, creating a staggered pattern. Mortar and rebar reinforcement are added to enhance the foundation’s strength.
-
American Bond is a variation of Running Bond that incorporates headers at regular intervals. This pattern adds visual interest while maintaining structural integrity.
-
Flemish Bond is another popular pattern that alternates headers and stretchers in each course. The headers are positioned directly over the stretchers’ center, creating a visually appealing pattern.
-
English Bond features alternating courses of headers and stretchers, providing excellent load-bearing capacity and structural stability. It is commonly used in intricate and decorative masonry work.
-
Stack Bond, on the other hand, is not suitable for load-bearing walls but can be used for decorative purposes. It involves directly stacking all stretchers above each other without any offset, creating a visually appealing but structurally weaker pattern.
The choice of bonding pattern is crucial for the stability and performance of CHB walls. Consulting with professionals and using quality materials from a single manufacturer are essential for the successful implementation of CHB in masonry projects in the Philippines.
- Durability, strength, non-combustibility, fire resistance, affordability, and weather resistance are some advantages offered by concrete hollow blocks (CHB).
- CHB installation can be complex and requires careful consideration of the bonding pattern.
Check this out:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common masonry units?
The most common masonry units include clay bricks, concrete blocks, and calcium silicate units. Clay bricks are a popular choice due to their durability and versatility. They may be solid or hollow, glazed or unglazed, and can be used in various applications. Concrete blocks are another common masonry unit that comes in different sizes and shapes, providing strength and stability to structures. Calcium silicate units are also frequently used, known for their fire-resistant properties. These masonry units serve as essential building blocks in construction projects, with each type offering unique advantages and suitable applications.
Why does Philippines use hollow blocks?
In addition to their cost-effectiveness and ease of installation, the use of hollow blocks in the Philippines can be attributed to the material’s durability and thermal insulation properties. The country experiences frequent seismic activity and tropical weather conditions, making the resilience of hollow blocks a desirable choice for construction. The hollow cores in the blocks also provide insulation, helping to regulate temperature and conserve energy in the tropical climate. Moreover, the lightweight nature of hollow blocks facilitates transportation and handling on construction sites, contributing to their popularity in the Philippines. Overall, the utilization of hollow blocks serves as a practical and efficient solution for affordable and sustainable construction in the country.
What is the most common example of masonry?
The most common example of masonry is brick. Bricks are highly sought after due to their durability and aesthetic appeal, standing the test of time and retaining their timeless charm for many generations. They are available in a diverse range, featuring traditional blocks as well as contemporary textures and colors to cater to various architectural styles and personal preferences.
What is the standard size of hollow blocks in the Philippines?
The standard size of hollow blocks in the Philippines can vary, depending on the specific project requirements. However, generally speaking, the most common dimensions for hollow concrete blocks are a length of 400, 500, or 600 mm, a height of 200 or 100 mm, and a width of 50, 75, 100, 150, 200, 250, or 300 mm. These variations in size allow for flexibility in construction and cater to various structural needs. Builders and architects can select the appropriate size of hollow blocks based on the specific design and load requirements of the project.