Block

Blocks Systems

Rusticated concrete block, also called rockfaced concrete block, was made in a mold to create a surface texture that resembles stone. Its popularity as a building material peaked between 1905 and 1930. Concrete and concrete block were popular building materials well before then, but it took two technological advances to make mass production of rusticated concrete block possible.

The concrete block market in Chicago has changed and is continuing to change for the better. After several years of concerted effort, quality lightweight concrete block is becoming the norm in the marketplace.  Your local concrete block manufacturers are converting the market and their inventories from “Medium Weight Block” to ”Lightweight Block”.  Why? Very simply, lightweight block is a very economical product that will make the masonry industry more competitive as we expand into the future.  Lightweight Block offers the same reliable performance and benefits as medium weight block while enhancing several key properties.

Is a regular lightweight block as strong as a regular medium weight block? YES! They both have to meet the same ASTM C-90 minimum compressive strength requirements.  If you need higher strength units all you have to do is specify a higher strength and the mix design will be adjusted to meet the stated structural requirements.

Not only does Lightweight Block resist chipping and cracking, it’s more uniform texture produces sharp corners and surfaces that provide structure and finish.  If desired, Lightweight Block is readily paintable and is available in the same wide range of sizes, colors and textures as other concrete masonry units.