Working with Dry Mix Concrete

When you use green building products, you need to consider getting dry mix products that will go well with them and ensure their durability and reliability in the long run. Dry mix concrete is a good choice for AAC (autoclaved aerated concrete) blocks. Also known as ‘dry mix mortar,’, it is formulated with innovative technologies that allow you to produce extremely thin joints that are at least 2mm thick, making it a suitable alternative to traditional mortar. Leading AAC block manufacturers in India carry a great selection of dry mix products, so you should be able to find the right one for your project.

Thin joint mortar is utilized in most installations where AAC blocks are used, generally to hold them together. Even if you apply it at only 2mm to 3mm thick, it guarantees high water retention properties and optimum strength. This type of dry mix concrete product is a dependable high-strength adhesive that lets you lay AAC blocks firmly and quickly. The ideal formulation includes cement, polymers, and graded sand. The mortar retains water effectively, so you do not have to worry about cracks forming due to shrinkage.

High-quality dry mix concrete guarantees high bond strength to provide enhanced load bearing capacity and overall masonry strength. You will find the product to be more economical and capable of helping you save time, as the quantity required for lying the blocks is three times less than traditional mortar. The higher volume and low density of mortar products allow for more coverage. So, a 40kg bag should be able to cover 170 to 180 square-foot area of four-inch thick AAC blocks.

Working with dry mix concrete is simpler and time-saving, as it is already pre-mixed. So, there is no need to blend on-site. Just add water, and it will be ready to use. Moreover, curing is not required due to the polymers that can retain water. Easy application helps reduce waste.

Specialities of Light Weight Concrete Blocks

Before the invention of the first lightweight concrete blocks, the construction industry used solid masonry bricks. They are strong and fire-resistant building materials, but the problem is that they are too heavy that they are difficult to work with. Thus, when lightweight concrete blocks arrived, they have revolutionised the construction industry. Many residential and commercial builders prefer to use lightweight concrete blocks because they bring a lot of benefits, such as:

Easy workability

Lightweight concrete blocks offer efficiency because of their density or weight per unit. A normal concrete block is around 2240 to 2400 kg/m³, whereas a lightweight concrete block is between 1400 to 1800 kg/m³. Construction can be finished faster because these blocks are easier to install. In fact, with lightweight concrete blocks, builders are able to proceed with difficult designs and plans which would have been impossible if normal blocks were used.

Reduced construction cost

Companies save greatly on costs—from transportation to construction—by using these blocks. Since they are lighter, they can be transported in larger batches. Thus, companies save on the delivery of materials. And since the structure is relatively lightweight, there is no need to add columns and other structural elements for weight support. Lightweight concrete blocks, therefore, reduce overall project costs.

Thermal insulation

Lightweight concrete blocks are especially beneficial for building roofs and walls because they have excellent thermal insulation. If you use aerated concrete, you can expect thermal insulation that is four times greater than bricks.

Lightweight concrete blocks are often more expensive. Nevertheless, their hefty price is offset by the number of benefits they provide. You should take note, however, that lightweight concrete blocks are created differently. Their advantages and quality may vary according to type or brand.

Having said this, it is important that construction builders research on the various types and brands of lightweight concrete to choose the one that exactly meets their needs.

Some Information You Ought to Know Before Buying Ready Mixed Plaster

Ready-mixed plaster is the best alternative to traditional plasters. It can guarantee an excellent wall surface finish without the tedious preparation and application process. Many construction companies are switching to ready-mixed plasters because they are far easier to use. Aside from this, they also offer strong based surface because they have high compressive and tensile strength. Are you considering using ready-mixed plaster for your next project? Before you select a supplier or a brand, find out the following information first.

Product specifications

To ensure that the ready-mixed plaster meets the performance requirements that you need, find out its technical specifications. Communicate with your suppliers so that they can help you find the right mix and achieve your desired results. Compare factors such as the main binder, appearance, and compressive strength when choosing between different brands.

Concrete mix design

Experts know the fundamentals of concrete mix design. Still, you must have an idea and basic understanding of how the components of the ready-mixed plaster interact. That way, if you can help the supplier troubleshoot the problem and modify the mix to meet the requirements.

Preparation procedures

Ready-mix plasters require different preparation procedures. They vary in terms of the amount of water to be poured into the mix and the duration of mixing. It is important to follow the manufacturer's manual in order to achieve the best results. Keep in mind that some products can be mixed manually while others are created to be mixed using a mechanical mixer or electrical stirrer.

Application procedure

It is also imperative to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations on the application of ready-mixed plaster. That way, you can see your expected results.

Reputation of supplier

Buy only from manufacturers that have been proven their credibility in creating construction products. Opt for a supplier that has been partnering with construction companies for years.