Interlocking Concrete Blocks
Interlocking concrete blocks are probably our most flexible precast retaining wall system. Available with half and three-quarter length options, interlocking concrete blocks enable you to construct walls and storage bays of almost any size. The concrete blocks simple connection ensures they are quick, easy and safe to install.
Retaining Wall Design
When the blocks are used as a retaining wall, the structure can be designed to take surcharges of up to 30kN/m2 and/or 100 year design life. The increased surcharge capacity can be especially helpful during temporary works or if raised pilling areas are required.
We can provide a variety of technical information to enable a project engineer to carry out their design checks and incorporate the precast element into their overall retaining wall design, including:
- CAD Drawings
- Technical Data Sheets
- Structural Calculations
It is always advisable to have any retaining wall design checked by a qualified engineer. We can also provide a full design service if you do not have an appointed engineer for your project.
Interlocking Concrete Block Dimensions
We have two size options available,1500mm x 600mm x 600m and 1600mm x 800mm x 800mm. If the precast units are being used to construct material storage bays, we have additional block profiles available to add to the versatility of this product.
When using the standard blocks, there is a maximum height that an 800mm or 600mm will be able to retain the material; this height will vary, depending on the material density.
For situations where you need to create a higher wall, or if the material will be heaped above the top of the wall, the bottom block(s) can be rotated through 90o for additional stability.
In this situation, where dividing walls are required, we have a specific block profile which tapers on both faces to enable material to flow off the wider base, while still creating a stable base for the retaining wall.
If you are not sure what size would best suit your project, speak to our product experts, who will be able to advise on the most cost-effective product.
Fire Protection & Segregation
Interlocking concrete blocks also have excellent fire resistance properties. The thickness of the blocks, concrete strength and mix design, will provide an effective fire-break or containment of fire if the need arises.
If being used as a fire or blast wall, additional consideration is needed for the sealing of the joints between the blocks; we can recommend and supply suitable products for this.
Product Applications
The interlocking concrete blocks can also be used in a number of other applications, in addition to creating retaining walls, including:
- Material Storage Bays
- Flood Protection
- Salt Storage
- Earth Retention
- Waste & Recycling Storage
Due to the weight of the blocks, they can be a cost-effective concrete barrier for helping to protect vacant properties.
The concrete blocks are also used as an alternative to our ballast and kentledge blocks for providing a counterweight to hoarding and scaffolding.
Precast Concrete Installation
In addition to the design and supply of precast retaining walls, we also offer a full construction and precast installation service. Our dedicated contracts team are capable of delivering complex retaining wall construction, our services include:
- Site Surveys
- Foundation Design
- Construction Drawings
- Foundation Construction
- Precast Installation
- Joint Sealing
Please speak to the contracts team for more information or to request a quotation for any of the above products and services.
As with all our products, we offer a design and installation service for the interlocking concrete blocks for the construction of retaining walls, please speak to the contracts team for more information.
