Are you making concrete blocks? From building walls to making fireplaces, there are plenty of uses for this type of brick. The good news is that it’s simple to make your own lightweight concrete blocks that can be used for multiple purposes around your home. You can even sell the bricks and start your own business. Find brick making machines for sale on Truck & Trailer today.

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Build the mould

Before you start making the blocks, build the moulds you’ll need to ensure that the concrete dries in the right shape. Nail plywood planks together to make a box that has one side open. The interior of the box should be 300mm long, 200mm wide, and 150mm high. This mould will produce blocks that are the size of a standard brick.

Prepare the materials

Get the materials you plan to use ready before you start making the blocks. For lightweight blocks that are easy to work with, you’ll need to add another aggregate to the concrete mix. Perlite is a popular option that helps to decrease the weight of the blocks. However, it’s important to avoid adding too much perlite as it makes the blocks weak. If you’re using the materials outdoors, you’ll need a higher amount of concrete in the mixture so that it can survive the elements.

Blend the water

Start the process by adding water to the concrete mixer. It’s important to measure the amount of water that you add so that you can achieve the right consistency. If the mixture is too dry, you’ll end up with pockets of air in your concrete blocks. An excessive amount of water results in a wet mixture that doesn’t hold the shape of the moulds properly. Add colourants during this part of the process if you want your blocks to be a specific colour. If you don’t have access to a mixer, you can also make the blocks by hand.

Mix the cement

Next, add the cement to the water. Only add part of the cement mixture to start off with. When the mixture reaches a good consistency, you can add more of the cement mixture.

Incorporate sand into the mixture

Sand makes the concrete block heavier. If you want lightweight blocks, reduce the amount of sand you add. For stronger bricks, include an additional bucket of sand. The strength of the bricks that you need depends on what you’re using them for. Make sure that all the materials are blended together properly before continuing with the process.

Add perlite

Add one bucket of perlite at a time to the mixer. Let the mixture blend together properly before adding more perlite. The perlite will absorb the material and thicken the concrete. When the mixture is thick enough, you can pour it into the moulds.

Pour the concrete into the moulds

While pouring the mixture into the moulds is simple enough, there are some tips that can help make your project a success. Ensure that the moulds are placed on a level surface.

Once you’ve poured the concrete into the moulds, stir the mixture so that the concrete settles and reaches the corners. Remove any excess mixture from the mould by scraping it off with a plywood plank. Next, cover the mould with plastic. The plastic makes the concrete stronger and helps the process go smoothly.

Dry the concrete blocks

Leave the moulds covered for 24 hours so that the drying process can take place without any disturbances. Once the blocks are dry, remove them from the moulds and cover them with plastic. Store them in an area that offers them protection from the elements. The blocks shouldn’t be exposed to wind or sunlight during this period. The time that it takes for the blocks to be ready varies according to the concrete mixture you’ve used. It usually takes a month before you can start building with the blocks.

Photo by Devon Rockola on Pexels

Making your own concrete blocks is easy when you own the right equipment. Find durable brick making machines for sale on Truck & Trailer today.